Trinity
By Gingivere the Shadowreaver
Disclaimer: I do not own any character in this fanfic unless otherwise stated. Lu Xun, Gan Ning, Lü Meng, and all other characters are copyrighted to KEOI Productions and are used for fan reasons only. Please do not steal or alter this fic.
Okay, due to popular demand, I shall return to the trio, you know, the main characters in the fanfics? Yeah, I think they deserve to be brought back in now… just wanted to get some plot development done for the other two kingdoms, you know, even though I'm Wu-bias.
Chapter Six: Into the Woods
Dawn.
It was something that Lü Meng wasn't really looking forward to, however, he just stared at the rising sun, admiring the rays it sent across the sky to announce the new day. Still, with its beauty came reality, and the general gave a nod, now welcoming it. There was no escape from what had to be done, so what else could be done besides welcome it? It wasn't the sun's fault for doing its duty… so, Lü Meng bid it welcome as any man would…
Well, except for his pirate friend. He rubbed his cheek, feeling the slight bump there thanks to the blinded yet well-aimed punch from his friend. Served him right, trying to wake a pirate up from his slumbers. Normally, Lü Meng would have continued to badger him, however, knowing of the battle that was soon to come, he gave up. 'Best let him get as much sleep as he can… we'll all be needing it…'
Lü Meng didn't want to lie to himself, but he wasn't completely ready yet. But, as the morning was upon them, soon would be the battle, and soon there would be no time.
'Well… best get ready… the fate of Wu can't stay on hold forever.'
With that thought, the general made his way back to his tent, keeping as silent as possible as to not wake up anyone else in the camp. There were a few soldiers up, doing their morning duties, guarding posts, and feeding the horses. Everything seemed in order, and he gave a nod to those he walked by, seeing the anticipation in their eyes. And for that, he could not blame them, for it was his own anticipation that kept him from his bed now.
He was already having second thoughts about his plans, however, he tried not to dwell on them. He couldn't allow second thoughts and doubt to overtake him now…
A soldier called to him, announcing the arrival of Lu Xun. Immediately, Lü Meng went to greet him, and he could see well that the youth had not slept a wink last night, seeing the slight droop of his golden eyes when he looked up and saluted him. "Are the traps ready?"
"Yes, sir… every trap is set and ready, though only a few I could test out." Lu Xun replied, his voice denying his lack of sleep as it was unusually energetic. He, too, was nervous, though he tried to hide the fact from his commanding general. Lü Meng could see the anxiety dwell within his golden eyes, as they were traitors to his defenses. "I left them in all the places we originally set up, so our army would do good to avoid those areas."
"Good… now all that is needed is to set up the decoys and prepare for the battle ahead."
Lu Xun gave a bow, preparing to depart to complete the tasks. Before he could go, however, Lü Meng stopped him, speaking lowly so that no others could hear him. "Be careful, Lu Xun… we can't afford to lose you."
"Understood, general."
Seeing the boy nod his head, turn, and leave bore a hole into Lü Meng's stomach; the thought of the boy losing his life at the mere age of eighteen terrified him. It wasn't the fact that he was so young and talented, but he was a friend, almost a younger brother if anything. He muttered to himself, wishing his words would carry to Lu Xun's ear in time before the boy mounted his light tan steed and trotted out of the gates. "Ning nor I could afford that… our conscious, nor would Lady Wu, allow it."
The thought of the marriage came to mind, bringing a light smile on his face as he turned around to get the camp ready for the battle coming ahead. He instantly spotted Gan Ning, clad in armor and ready to go, and the former pirate wore a grin that only he could own, "And what might YOU be grinning about, eh?"
"I was thinking how good it would be to hang you from your legs and flog you for oversleeping and striking me. But it seems I can't do that, now can I?" Lü Meng joked, giving his friend a rare smile and then turning serious. "You know what to do, right?"
"As you lure the main force into our land, I shall cut off their supply route and commandeer the biggest ship in their fleet and set the rest alight. Right?" Gan Ning asked, just to get things in order. Seeing Lü Meng's nod of approval, his grin got deeper as he gave a mocking bow. "How could I forgot, Chief Commander Lü Meng?"
That arose a slight blush from his friend, who turned away to hide that fact. He was really a humble man and his friend knew it well. "Don't let that get around… Lord Zhou Yu would have my head and your balls."
Seeing Gan Ning's look of horror made him laugh, but he cut it off as he heard a sound rise from the shores. A soldier called him to once again, claiming movement from the enemy forces. Almost immediately, the two mounted their horses and dashed towards the cliffs over the beach, to gaze upon the enemy. They were moving in…
Beating drums announced the arrival of their army, and though no more than pirates, they marched out in decent rows and on beat with the drums, though they had to admit to seeing a few start off on the wrong foot and skip about to get to the correct one. Though massive, their form was far from perfect… and this seemed to ease some tension within Lü Meng as he gazed at them with weary eyes.
"Never in all my life have I seen so many men… and it's only the first line of boats!" Gan Ning proclaimed, disbelief slightly obvious in his voice. He narrowed his gaze, hoping to find the pirate captain and lord of this army. "Lord Sun Quan must have some faith in us if he expects us to hold this force back…"
Eyeing the situation grimly, Lü Meng kept a serious tone, holding up the strong front before his friend and the soldiers that watched with them. "It is all he wants us to do… all that is needed to be done. And he would not have given us something he felt that we couldn't handle, so let's waste no more time and get to work on delaying this threat."
Those words alone gave the surrounding soldiers courage, and Gan Ning followed him, waiting until they were out of the soldiers' hearing range before speaking up, "And what should we do if you are killed?"
When Lü Meng heard his friend say that, he pulled the horse into a stop, looking back at him with an indescribable look, almost one that was betrayed by the confidence in his eyes. However, the general merely nodded, and gave his order, "Should I die, then you are in charge of the army. Watch over Lu Xun, keep him safe and listen to whatever he has to tell you. His return to Jian Ye will be your responsibility."
The air around them fell dead, and ignoring the beatings of the drums that signified war behind them, they once again tried to prepare for the war. Gan Ning finally got the words out, though he felt they died the minute they left his mouth. "Don't you dare leave that responsibility to me… you hear me? He will get married, and you and I will be the drunkest men there, you got that?"
A soft chuckle livened the air, as Lü Meng could not help but laugh. However, despite his mirth, he was deadly serious, "I don't plan on dying…you be careful, scalawag."
"Same to you, grumpy bags."
~*~*~*~
If Lu Xun had any idea what his friends' duty was, he wouldn't have been trying to fit the heavy armor on at that very moment. The armor given out to the decoy soldiers were large and heavy, something that obviously contrasted his own small and physically weak form. However, thanks to a few of his soldier's suggestions, he was able to fit it on without it looking too obvious that he was not as well built as his superior general.
Some light feathered pillows and a tight belt around his waist gave him a fake upper body, one that greatly resembled Lü Meng's, and it had taken some adjustment to get his arms to move more freely. The armor and pillows weighed him down, however, he didn't have to worry about being too mobile. After all, he was only a decoy…
Ten soldiers had bravely volunteered for the task and were approved, each one stationed at a certain area and given a path to go to confuse the enemy. However, now there were eleven, and as Lu Xun finished suiting up, he remembered the late lord Sun Ce's sayings, how a commander should do what he expects of his own soldiers…
This was no different, as he willingly volunteered to do the task with his men. And, as he fitted the replica helmet that all of the decoys were required to wear, he knew this would be his one chance to thank Lü Meng for his years of training… had it not been for Lü Meng, Lu Xun would have never became a general so quickly. Even now, he could see the general speaking to Zhou Yu, mentioning his name so many times and wearing a smile that Lu Xun could not understand. Lü Meng thought highly of him, even if he did not think of himself that way or not. He was like his protector, his big brother almost…
Lu Xun turned to one of the decoys, noticing that he was much shorter than the others. But that wasn't too much a problem as he was going to be on a horse anyway. He asked, catching the soldier off guard. "Well?"
"Despite your size, sir, you're good."
That was all that was needed, and with the soldier's help, he mounted his new black horse, one that every decoy was given. The horse didn't seem to care for the extra weight, but all it did was snort, as Lu Xun made himself comfortable, going for the false halberd that he laid against the tree. Even fake, it was heavy for him, and he gave a dispirited look. "Sir?"
"Even as a war general, I'm fairly weak in comparison to Lord Lü Meng and Gan Ning… nor does my knowledge rank with Lord Zhou Yu or Zhuge Liang of Shu. I know my weaknesses, and I feel as if I am dragging them down somehow." Lu Xun admitted, frowning as he could hardly hold the weapon upright without grunting. The soldier gave a rather sympathetic look through his helmet, though Lu Xun did not notice it. "I just want to prove to them that I am not worthless on the battlefield… and that I'm capable of defending myself."
The soldier was no more than a few years older than him, and it felt odd for the man to call Lu Xun such high rank titles, but he seemed to have no problem with it, as he gave a polite bow of his head. "General, you are still young and you still have room to grow. Perhaps someday you will have wisdom that surpasses our Lord Zhou Yu, valor that surpasses Lord Lü Meng, and strength that surpasses our Gan Ning, but for now, you are you and nothing less of the general that Lord Sun Quan had promoted. If he, Lord Lü Meng and Gan Ning, feel that you were worth taking into service, then their judgement alone should be enough."
His words were that of a sage, and Lu Xun's golden eyes gazed towards him, wide with wonder as the soldier gave another bow and turned his horse about to make towards his station. Lu Xun was alone now, and he looked at the light halberd in his arms, gripping it with a new strength from within.
Yes, he could clearly remember the day he joined into Sun Quan's service, seeing himself steal his great-uncle's twin sabers and his father's cherished white horse and fleeing from the city's gates. It was by luck that he ran across the village, seeing the barbarians with their spears and swords running amok outside the failing walls. That was the first time he saw the man he admired now…
General Lü Meng was much different back then, though… his hair wasn't quite as long, and he seemed ripped, almost completely muscle-bound as he fought the invaders with the brute strength of his halberd alone. But besides the physical differences were the personality, as the man used no such strategy against the barbarians.
Even now he could see himself thinking, plotting, rushing to the soldiers' aid against the onslaught. He could never forget the look on the general's face, and their introduction was short, as Lu Xun merely shouted, 'Draw them to the bridge, general! We will have the advantage there!'
The look Lü Meng of the past had given him was that of a man who saw a mere child upon a white horse, yet now, when he would look at him, he saw more than just a child. Though, despite his obvious disbelief, the general seemed to have trusted him.
It was after that encounter that Lü Meng changed, gradually becoming the man that he was now. He seemed well equaled out in strength and mind, and how a man could will himself to change his faults was admirable to Lu Xun's eyes. How he wished that he could be like Lü Meng and correct his own faults.
And, looking towards the east where the distant sounds of drums could be heard, Lu Xun realized that this could be his chance. His one chance to find his balance of strength and strategy…
~*~*~*~
Beating drums was what Hua Seung wanted to hear, as he stood at the front of his flagship. The wind blew from behind him, as if urging him onto the land that beckoned for his rule. Today was the day to begin his conquest of China, and nothing, absolutely nothing could stop him. There was no warrior that could match his strength and power, no army that could match his own!
And his army… he gave them a backwards glance, watching that they piled out onto the beach, each one loaded with spears, daggers, a sword at their hip, and a bow across their chest with a full quiver of arrows on their back. The sounds of their march was music to his ears, and in his eyes, they were the perfect army.
"This land shall be mine… and all those who dwell will bow to me!" Hua Seung thought with a grin, brushing his grizzled beard in thought of his duel later today. The nerve of that man, challenging him to a duel! No man has defeated him yet…
He tried to recall the general's look, and though his features were not completely clear, he could tell that he was the man in charge. What a foolish man, Hua thought, stepping down from the bow and heading towards his cabin, to grab his own dueling sword. This mere army was no match for him…
Halfway there, he caught sight of Sei Rong, and his perfect mood was shattered just by the mere sight of him. He knew why he lingered there. "What are you waiting for?"
The crippled advisor recoiled by his words, but as he stepped aside to let his captain into the cabin, he found his wit to speak again. "Sir, do you think it's odd that their commander has challenged you to a duel and not Gan Ning?"
"Gan Ning? What's he got to do with it?" Hua Seung spat, spotting his velvet hilt sword instantly and taking it within his grasp, practicing a few swipes and enjoying the sound of his silver blade cutting against the wind.
"He was once a pirate too, and you of all people know of his skills." Sei Rong pointed out, making sure to keep at a safe distance from that swinging blade. "If they wished for success, they would have sent him out."
That glare from the pirate captain would have killed any man, and what kept him from slitting his throat at that very second was a mystery. Hua Seung, now angered, shouted, "Why else would he not? Years ago, he would have been a challenge to me, but now that he's aligned himself with these landlubber river-dwellers, he's grown soft! He's lost his lust for blood and lost his strength in battle. He is hardly a match for me!"
Now, with his curved sword at hand, the pirate captain stormed out of his cabins, and Sei Rong followed, limping along and sighing, "Sir, you need to approach this cautiously. There is a reason why Gan Ning is not dueling you, and though that MAY be the cause, I truly believe that they are up to something. They would not risk the life of their commander-"
He was silenced by Hua Seung's shout, as the ill-tempered captain waved his sword about, nearly taking off Sei Rong's head. "What plan would work? I will slay their commander in one swift blow, and then the rest of their army won't be worth MENTIONING… you, my crippled little freak, are too afraid of any and everything to take chances!"
"But my lord, it could be a trap!" Sei Rong shouted, backing away in fear for his life. "The commander could feign defeat and lure you into an ambush- do you think your army could continue without you?"
"Their commander will be dead before he could even turn his horse about; I will slay him and I will slay his horse should it even try!" Hua Seung bellowed, grabbing his advisor with one swift movement and forcing him against the side, to look out at the army that was advancing slowly onto the Southland's banks. "Look at that army, Sei Rong… do you think their men will bear the mere SIGHT of it? They challenge me because they fear me, and they think that by eliminating me early, the threat will be gone. To them, this is a bad dream, and they are merely wishing to open their eyes and wake, but do you know what they will see when they open their eyes?"
There came no reply, and Sei Rong found himself on the floor, hearing the captain's reply as he nursed his new bruise. "They will see what they fear, and that is an army that they can not stop, led by a man that they can not defeat! Do you think their men will stand for such a sight? They will run in fear at the sight, and the ones brave enough will not be a match to our strength! No one can stop this army! Not Gan Ning, nor can the ones he aligned himself to!"
And what could Sei Rong say after this proclamation? He wasn't even given the chance to say otherwise as two soldiers rushed towards their captain, guiding a long-haired black horse to its master. As Hua Seung sheathed his dueling sword, he mounted the stead, giving his orders to the crippled man as the soldiers readied the gangplank. "You're to stay aboard this ship until nightfall, then join with the main force. I'm giving you three thousand men, so make sure none of my ships go missing."
"Yes my lord…" Sei Rong muttered, saying nothing more as the captain gave his horse a kick, running down the gangplank and onto the beach. Seeing the warrior leave made Sei Rong relax, and he sighed, bringing himself up to spat in Hua Seung's general direction. "I fear an ambush, but perhaps only by death can he see how wrong he is…"
~*~*~*~
Across the southern shores, the sounds of war had reached across the land, and the horde of pirates made their way into Wu's territory, marching until their lord shouted for them to stop. That very lord rode at the front of his army, a banner with his name on it attached to the back of his horse, reading 'Pirate Lord Hua Seung'. Up and down his line he ran, checking every last one of them and shouting his orders. Now, all he had to do was await the arrival of his opponent…
One of Seung's generals, a scruff balding man by the name of Cheng Lu, eyed the terrain, not liking the surface at all. This land was definitely not meant for Calvary, and he noted the woods in the background.
As Hua Seung rode towards him, he called for his lord's attention, and with his own spear, he pointed towards the land before the woods. "Sir, this land forbids the use of a good Calvary; perhaps we should send a scout out to investigate the area."
"A waste of time, don't you think?" Hua Seung replied, looking to the land himself and spatting. "They had no more than a day at most to prepare for us… they would not waste their energy that is meant to be spent on fighting on setting anything."
"Best to be cautious at least…" Cheng Lu replied, giving a snort. "Wouldn't trust these types as far as I can throw them… people will do anything to live."
"Noted and ignored."
So what else was knew? "Yes sir. Your orders?"
"Take the Calvary down that path right there…" Hua Seung turned his spear up and showed him the flatlands. "They'll most likely try to feign defeat; I will chase them through there, while you cut them their retreat."
"Aye captain."
Suddenly, their own war drums were matched with a new one, and Hua Seung turned his steed around, seeing the army that now approached them. Needless to say, against his OWN forces, it was quite a pathetic sight, and bright red banners lighted the sky, blowing with the wind as the Wu army approached them. They cut off several meters apart, and even at their distance, Hua Seung could sum up the look they all shared.
Fear.
"Would you take a look at that? Pathetic!"
Cheng Lu could not help but laugh, agreeing with his lord. "I do not see the former Pirate of the Silken Sails there, though… perhaps he's abandoned their ranks at the sound of your name?"
"For him I do not care if he stays to fight or flees like a dog… all I want is that duel."
No sooner had he spoken, the drums got louder, and around the army rode a single rider, glad in golden armor and feathers that danced with the wind on top of his helmet. His black horse matched his black hair that was lose from under the heavy helmet, and his halberd looked as formidable against his own spear… And his banners read 'Majestic Tiger Lü Meng'.
The Wu soldiers' fears seemed to die away at the sight of their own commander, and they cheered for him, as he mimicked Hua Seung's own actions, riding back and forth before the front line, holding his halberd up and shouting orders of his own. Somehow, he had to keep their morale up… he had to keep his OWN morale up…
"There he be… General Lü Meng…" Hua Seung commented, seeing the battle armor and the golden helmet that shielded his face. It was definitely meant to protect his face from blows to the head, and his black, long hair only seemed natural, as if it was the fake hair that came from the top. Needless to say, he looked formidable, and the pirate captain laughed. "We shall see if he's a worthy opponent. Get to work."
"Aye-aye, captain!"
With a swift kick to his muscular steed, Hua Seung charged forth onto the battlefield before him, not caring for the land of his enemies and trampling through it mercilessly. He wanted this duel, and when he heard the sound of the gong, he saw Lü Meng turn his own steed about and charge down as well… he would certainly get his duel…
At this very moment, Lü Meng's heart raced, matching the beat of the horse's thundering hooves as he charge down to meet his foe. He wasn't afraid, but anxious, wondering what kind of strength this man had. He knew himself to be quite strong, though he already knew one advantage he had over his opponent at the moment. A brain in that head of his… something that the pirate captain lacked.
"Wu sea dog, prepare to meet your doom!"
With that shout, Hua Seung gave his spear a thrust, hoping to slay his enemy instantly as their horses crossed. He failed, as the spear simply bounced off of the armor, leaving a scratch, and by the time he got his horse to turn around, Lü Meng struck with a thrust of his horse, aiming for the horse and guiding it this away and around, to keep himself turned to his own people and not his enemy's. A good strategy, Gan Ning had to admit, watching from a safe distance, as the duel began to heat up. He knew of Cheng Lu's forces heading towards the right path, but he did nothing. That was exactly where he wanted him to go…
After a few bouts, Hua Seung had to admit; Lü Meng knew what he was doing. Not only did he have the wit to counter each move, but he had the strength to knock his spear away and attempt to lay in a hit or two, something that Hua Seung WASN'T used to. And as much as it displeased him, he grinned, instantly loving the man's spirit.
And Lü Meng was rather surprised with himself… he matched the pirate captain blow for blow. However, he allowed no room for a big ego, remembering the strategy and circling around the pirate, more to anger him than to look for an advantage. Though he wasn't afraid, his own horse was terrified by the opponent's own monster. However, the horse obeyed its master, finding the courage within himself and soaking the courage from him as well, to face the wild steed.
It was perhaps the twenty-fifth bout when Hua Seung began to grow annoyed by the other man's tactics. This wasn't a duel! Lü Meng was TAUNTING him, dancing around him rather than anything else. And this was pissing him off…
Lü Meng narrowed his gaze, realizing he wouldn't be able to put up the fight for much longer. And his horse was beginning to lose its nerves, as he jumped back and nearly knocked his master off. Finally, Lü Meng nodded… it was time.
As Hua Seung went for a strike, it never connected, and, pulling back on his reigns, Lü Meng's steed shot to its hind legs, kicking its front feet in an attempt to harm Hua's own horse before turning about completely and making a mad dash up the hill. There was slight confusion amongst the pirates, as if they had never seen such an act before, and Hua Seung finally calmed down his own steed, to hear Wu's gong vibrate, announcing the return of their general.
"What… the hell?!" Hua Seung bellowed, his fist trembling with rage. How DARE someone do such a thing to him in the middle of a duel?! If pissing him off was part of Lü Meng's plan, then it worked like a charm! "You spineless dog! How dare you?! I'll have your head for insulting me!"
The Wu general didn't even have to turn around to see his plan was working, as Hua Seung was hot on his heels. And, by the sound of the thundering feet behind him, he figured that now, by angering their captain, the horde was now on the move. He shouted to his men, no fear whatsoever in his voice. "Fall back! Fall back into the woods!"
They did not need a second order, as they practically disappearing from the pirates' sights, their small force making it so easily to escape from the coming chaos. Not Lü Meng, though… Hua Seung was hot on his heels, and there was definitely no shaking him. 'Good…' he thought, kicking his horse to make it run faster. As long as he got the captain's attention…
And Hua Seung was so enraged that he completely ignored the fact that they were now entering the woods. Slicing away a vine to clear his way, the pirate captain chased relentlessly, shouting one insult after another to his fleeing opponent. But nothing seemed to work… Lü Meng simply would not stop. But he was going to make him…
He never noticed that his forces never entered the woods, and had he not been so caught into catching up to the faster general's horse, he would have seen the traps that his men clumsily fell into. Running firmly behind their lord, the pirates never noticed the softness of the grass and dirt beneath their feet, and the pit was more than just a hole in the ground, but at the bottom laid spikes, meant for one thing only. Sudden death.
Seeing their fellow men fall into the traps wasn't too starting for them, as they simply moved their direction. However, even that seemed unsafe, as the same results happened, slaying more men, and it seemed that they hit almost EVERY trap, no matter which direction they went. It wasn't long before the front line was no more, and what was worse, was by the time they finally reached the front of the woods, to join their lord, they fell to arrows, small spears, and stones.
Though they were a massive force, seeing the fate of those ahead of them was enough to halt the army, and generals tried to calm their troops, to relieve the confusion… however, nothing seemed to work, halting the massive force for a short while.
And where was their leader? Still chasing his prey within the woods. He was hot on his trail until he noticed another horseman run across from him, and he paused, seeing the same golden helmet with the sleek black hair emerge from it. By the time he looked forward, there was no sign of the original chase, and, cursing, he turned his horse about, to give chase to 'Lü Meng'. "You bastard… you cannot escape from ME!"
The man remained silent, leaping over a log and trying to escape the man's wrath. And, as Hua Seung leapt over the very same log, he barely caught the halberd with his spear, knocking it aside and finding himself in a completely different direction. Dark green eyes met his own through the helmet, but before he could attempt another blow, he was gone. And what did Hua Seung do?
He followed!
By the six or seventh alter of direction, something just didn't seem quite right within the pirate captain. His horse was getting exhausted, not used to the humidity and the heat of the Southland, yet Lü Meng's horse seemed fresh. And was it the heat, or was Lü Meng's halberd always switching hands?
Once again he was caught off guard, but this time, his horse wasn't too lucky, getting a slash at it's side and coming too close to bucking his master off. However, 'Lü Meng' didn't follow through with the kill, giving a laugh and turning to flee. Now, his horse was tired, and it limped, but it dared not stop, in fear of displeasing his master.
"When I catch you, you'll be nothing more then feed for the sharks!" Hua Seung threatened, giving chase and forgetting the feeling he had but a few minutes ago. He drove himself deeper and deeper into the woods, his only goal was to slay his prey mercilessly…
Rather it was the heat or the pure frustration of the craftiness of his enemy, Hua Seung was fed up with the chase, and, gripping his spear, he reeled it back, taking a good aim at the general ahead of him. He gave a battle cry, letting it fly, and his aim was partially true. The horse gave a whine before collapsing, crushing its master under its dead weight as he wailed its last moment of life. Laughing triumphantly, Hua Seung went for the kill, aiming to remove the general's head with one swift blow from his curved sword…
"Farewell, Lü Meng!"
But his blade never fell, and by pure instincts alone, he dodged the halberd that nearly drove itself into his side, instead catching it under his arm and using brute force to knock the assailant off of his horse. Whoever it was, he was smart, using the momentum to take him down with him, and it wasn't long before he found himself on the damp forest floor, sword at hand and staring with disbelief at his opponent.
It was Lü Meng!
As unbelievable as it was, Lü Meng stood across from him, halberd at hand, and ready for battle. The pirate captain took a second to look at the man he crushed underneath the dying horse, seeing him still there, staring at them, and then he looked back at the man before him. Finally, he seemed to catch on…
"Decoys, eh? Crafty little devil, I'll hand THAT much to you…" Hua Seung could not grin; he was too pissed off to grin, and he gave a laugh, driving his spear from the dying horse and ready to continue his duel. And Lü Meng seemed ready too, crouching slightly to brace himself. "No more running, coward! Face me!!!!"
And Lü Meng merely lowered his head, his golden eyes sparkling to answer him…
The duel was very quick, and as he dove to cut his opponent in half, Lü Meng moved with amazing speed, dodging the blow and laying a kick to the back of his knees, sending the pirate captain to his rear. In his slightly confused state, Hua Seung could tell that the man had mounted his steed again, and he tried to leave again, but Hua stopped him, using the hilt of his bloodied spear to knock the man off of his horse. Once again, the fighting commenced…
"Why won't you face me like a man?!"
Lü Meng did not respond, quickly raising his halberd to hold back the spear. Somehow, rather the man was weak or his strength had grown since a few minutes ago, Lü Meng fell back, unable to defend against his own brute strength. And, taking the opportunity, he gripped his sword, once again trying to cut his opponent in two.
This time, the sword connected, and though he expected to see blood rise from his now opened chest, all Hua Seung was feathers explode and fly into the air, dancing around his opponent and himself. As Lü Meng hit the ground, it suddenly struck the pirate captain, but it was already too late. He could hear the sound of thundering hooves rise from behind him, as he looked at the fallen 'Lü Meng' at his feet. "Another decoy?!"
"YAHHHHHHHHHHH!" The true Lü Meng cried out, thrusting his halberd and getting the befuddled pirate right in the arm, tearing off the shoulder pad and leaving a nasty mark. And, by the time Lü Meng had turned around, he gave the order, making sure himself and the two decoys were at a safe distance. "FIRE!"
Things seemed to slow down for Hua Seung, and though he expected to feel the pain of the arrows, he could not, hearing the cry of Cheng Lu hit there air before a strong hand grabbed him, practically dragging him a few feet before he was able to mount the horse with the wounded general.
Lü Meng cursed, ready to pursue, however, he did no such thing, allowing Fate to have its way for today. Instead, he dismounted, turning to the wounded decoys, and he was going to help the one closest to him, but he refused, pointing to the one stuck under the horse. "I'm fine sir…"
That voice… in a swift movement, he removed the helmet, and much to his surprise, he could see Lu Xun's sweat dampened face, slight pain raising in his golden eyes as he panted. As the feathers started to fall around them, Lü Meng could not control the slight rage in his voice from revealing itself, "Lu Xun! What the blazes are were thinking?! You… you could have been killed!"
"Help the other one first…" Lu Xun replied quickly, trying to avoid to subject as he winced. Lü Meng let his eyes venture towards the man's chest, seeing the arm that covered it and removing it. By this time the other decoys and the archers had arrived, and he gasped, seeing the bloody feathers that the boy had tried to hide. "I'm… I'm fine sir…"
"Lu Xun, you fool…" Lü Meng muttered, then turning to the closest man to him. "Get the forces together… we'll make camp a few miles back. And get the first aid tent ready…"
The man nodded, and as the other soldiers went to aid the other fallen decoy, Lü Meng lifted Lu Xun into his arms, despite his reluctance. "Lord Lü Meng, I'm alright!"
"No you're not… you need medical attention, and you need it quickly!"
"But-" Slightly glazed over eyes and a flush face looked at his superior, and Lu Xun could see the concern light up in Lü Meng's eyes, as if he blamed himself for what happened. Lü Meng didn't even say a word, and the boy submitted, merely nodding his head and offering no struggle. As embarrassing as it was to be carried by his friend, he made no verbal complaint… fighting the pain and gripping Lü Meng's clothing to get a better grip.
"What about Hua Seung?" a soldier asked.
Lü Meng gave a quick answer. "If the traps worked, then his army should be stalled for now, and after what he just been through, it would be suicidal for him to return… we succeeded for now, but now, we rest…"
No one dared disagree with him, and, holding Lu Xun in his arms and somehow gripping the reigns to his horse, he and his men retreated deeper into the woods. He was afraid now, but he said nothing as Lu Xun finally lost consciousness in his arms. He only hoped now that Gan Ning could do his part of the plan without difficulty… and for a split second, he wondered if sending his friend out with only himself and a few men was a bad idea.
'No… if there's anyone for the job, it's definitely him…'
By Gingivere the Shadowreaver
Disclaimer: I do not own any character in this fanfic unless otherwise stated. Lu Xun, Gan Ning, Lü Meng, and all other characters are copyrighted to KEOI Productions and are used for fan reasons only. Please do not steal or alter this fic.
Okay, due to popular demand, I shall return to the trio, you know, the main characters in the fanfics? Yeah, I think they deserve to be brought back in now… just wanted to get some plot development done for the other two kingdoms, you know, even though I'm Wu-bias.
Chapter Six: Into the Woods
Dawn.
It was something that Lü Meng wasn't really looking forward to, however, he just stared at the rising sun, admiring the rays it sent across the sky to announce the new day. Still, with its beauty came reality, and the general gave a nod, now welcoming it. There was no escape from what had to be done, so what else could be done besides welcome it? It wasn't the sun's fault for doing its duty… so, Lü Meng bid it welcome as any man would…
Well, except for his pirate friend. He rubbed his cheek, feeling the slight bump there thanks to the blinded yet well-aimed punch from his friend. Served him right, trying to wake a pirate up from his slumbers. Normally, Lü Meng would have continued to badger him, however, knowing of the battle that was soon to come, he gave up. 'Best let him get as much sleep as he can… we'll all be needing it…'
Lü Meng didn't want to lie to himself, but he wasn't completely ready yet. But, as the morning was upon them, soon would be the battle, and soon there would be no time.
'Well… best get ready… the fate of Wu can't stay on hold forever.'
With that thought, the general made his way back to his tent, keeping as silent as possible as to not wake up anyone else in the camp. There were a few soldiers up, doing their morning duties, guarding posts, and feeding the horses. Everything seemed in order, and he gave a nod to those he walked by, seeing the anticipation in their eyes. And for that, he could not blame them, for it was his own anticipation that kept him from his bed now.
He was already having second thoughts about his plans, however, he tried not to dwell on them. He couldn't allow second thoughts and doubt to overtake him now…
A soldier called to him, announcing the arrival of Lu Xun. Immediately, Lü Meng went to greet him, and he could see well that the youth had not slept a wink last night, seeing the slight droop of his golden eyes when he looked up and saluted him. "Are the traps ready?"
"Yes, sir… every trap is set and ready, though only a few I could test out." Lu Xun replied, his voice denying his lack of sleep as it was unusually energetic. He, too, was nervous, though he tried to hide the fact from his commanding general. Lü Meng could see the anxiety dwell within his golden eyes, as they were traitors to his defenses. "I left them in all the places we originally set up, so our army would do good to avoid those areas."
"Good… now all that is needed is to set up the decoys and prepare for the battle ahead."
Lu Xun gave a bow, preparing to depart to complete the tasks. Before he could go, however, Lü Meng stopped him, speaking lowly so that no others could hear him. "Be careful, Lu Xun… we can't afford to lose you."
"Understood, general."
Seeing the boy nod his head, turn, and leave bore a hole into Lü Meng's stomach; the thought of the boy losing his life at the mere age of eighteen terrified him. It wasn't the fact that he was so young and talented, but he was a friend, almost a younger brother if anything. He muttered to himself, wishing his words would carry to Lu Xun's ear in time before the boy mounted his light tan steed and trotted out of the gates. "Ning nor I could afford that… our conscious, nor would Lady Wu, allow it."
The thought of the marriage came to mind, bringing a light smile on his face as he turned around to get the camp ready for the battle coming ahead. He instantly spotted Gan Ning, clad in armor and ready to go, and the former pirate wore a grin that only he could own, "And what might YOU be grinning about, eh?"
"I was thinking how good it would be to hang you from your legs and flog you for oversleeping and striking me. But it seems I can't do that, now can I?" Lü Meng joked, giving his friend a rare smile and then turning serious. "You know what to do, right?"
"As you lure the main force into our land, I shall cut off their supply route and commandeer the biggest ship in their fleet and set the rest alight. Right?" Gan Ning asked, just to get things in order. Seeing Lü Meng's nod of approval, his grin got deeper as he gave a mocking bow. "How could I forgot, Chief Commander Lü Meng?"
That arose a slight blush from his friend, who turned away to hide that fact. He was really a humble man and his friend knew it well. "Don't let that get around… Lord Zhou Yu would have my head and your balls."
Seeing Gan Ning's look of horror made him laugh, but he cut it off as he heard a sound rise from the shores. A soldier called him to once again, claiming movement from the enemy forces. Almost immediately, the two mounted their horses and dashed towards the cliffs over the beach, to gaze upon the enemy. They were moving in…
Beating drums announced the arrival of their army, and though no more than pirates, they marched out in decent rows and on beat with the drums, though they had to admit to seeing a few start off on the wrong foot and skip about to get to the correct one. Though massive, their form was far from perfect… and this seemed to ease some tension within Lü Meng as he gazed at them with weary eyes.
"Never in all my life have I seen so many men… and it's only the first line of boats!" Gan Ning proclaimed, disbelief slightly obvious in his voice. He narrowed his gaze, hoping to find the pirate captain and lord of this army. "Lord Sun Quan must have some faith in us if he expects us to hold this force back…"
Eyeing the situation grimly, Lü Meng kept a serious tone, holding up the strong front before his friend and the soldiers that watched with them. "It is all he wants us to do… all that is needed to be done. And he would not have given us something he felt that we couldn't handle, so let's waste no more time and get to work on delaying this threat."
Those words alone gave the surrounding soldiers courage, and Gan Ning followed him, waiting until they were out of the soldiers' hearing range before speaking up, "And what should we do if you are killed?"
When Lü Meng heard his friend say that, he pulled the horse into a stop, looking back at him with an indescribable look, almost one that was betrayed by the confidence in his eyes. However, the general merely nodded, and gave his order, "Should I die, then you are in charge of the army. Watch over Lu Xun, keep him safe and listen to whatever he has to tell you. His return to Jian Ye will be your responsibility."
The air around them fell dead, and ignoring the beatings of the drums that signified war behind them, they once again tried to prepare for the war. Gan Ning finally got the words out, though he felt they died the minute they left his mouth. "Don't you dare leave that responsibility to me… you hear me? He will get married, and you and I will be the drunkest men there, you got that?"
A soft chuckle livened the air, as Lü Meng could not help but laugh. However, despite his mirth, he was deadly serious, "I don't plan on dying…you be careful, scalawag."
"Same to you, grumpy bags."
~*~*~*~
If Lu Xun had any idea what his friends' duty was, he wouldn't have been trying to fit the heavy armor on at that very moment. The armor given out to the decoy soldiers were large and heavy, something that obviously contrasted his own small and physically weak form. However, thanks to a few of his soldier's suggestions, he was able to fit it on without it looking too obvious that he was not as well built as his superior general.
Some light feathered pillows and a tight belt around his waist gave him a fake upper body, one that greatly resembled Lü Meng's, and it had taken some adjustment to get his arms to move more freely. The armor and pillows weighed him down, however, he didn't have to worry about being too mobile. After all, he was only a decoy…
Ten soldiers had bravely volunteered for the task and were approved, each one stationed at a certain area and given a path to go to confuse the enemy. However, now there were eleven, and as Lu Xun finished suiting up, he remembered the late lord Sun Ce's sayings, how a commander should do what he expects of his own soldiers…
This was no different, as he willingly volunteered to do the task with his men. And, as he fitted the replica helmet that all of the decoys were required to wear, he knew this would be his one chance to thank Lü Meng for his years of training… had it not been for Lü Meng, Lu Xun would have never became a general so quickly. Even now, he could see the general speaking to Zhou Yu, mentioning his name so many times and wearing a smile that Lu Xun could not understand. Lü Meng thought highly of him, even if he did not think of himself that way or not. He was like his protector, his big brother almost…
Lu Xun turned to one of the decoys, noticing that he was much shorter than the others. But that wasn't too much a problem as he was going to be on a horse anyway. He asked, catching the soldier off guard. "Well?"
"Despite your size, sir, you're good."
That was all that was needed, and with the soldier's help, he mounted his new black horse, one that every decoy was given. The horse didn't seem to care for the extra weight, but all it did was snort, as Lu Xun made himself comfortable, going for the false halberd that he laid against the tree. Even fake, it was heavy for him, and he gave a dispirited look. "Sir?"
"Even as a war general, I'm fairly weak in comparison to Lord Lü Meng and Gan Ning… nor does my knowledge rank with Lord Zhou Yu or Zhuge Liang of Shu. I know my weaknesses, and I feel as if I am dragging them down somehow." Lu Xun admitted, frowning as he could hardly hold the weapon upright without grunting. The soldier gave a rather sympathetic look through his helmet, though Lu Xun did not notice it. "I just want to prove to them that I am not worthless on the battlefield… and that I'm capable of defending myself."
The soldier was no more than a few years older than him, and it felt odd for the man to call Lu Xun such high rank titles, but he seemed to have no problem with it, as he gave a polite bow of his head. "General, you are still young and you still have room to grow. Perhaps someday you will have wisdom that surpasses our Lord Zhou Yu, valor that surpasses Lord Lü Meng, and strength that surpasses our Gan Ning, but for now, you are you and nothing less of the general that Lord Sun Quan had promoted. If he, Lord Lü Meng and Gan Ning, feel that you were worth taking into service, then their judgement alone should be enough."
His words were that of a sage, and Lu Xun's golden eyes gazed towards him, wide with wonder as the soldier gave another bow and turned his horse about to make towards his station. Lu Xun was alone now, and he looked at the light halberd in his arms, gripping it with a new strength from within.
Yes, he could clearly remember the day he joined into Sun Quan's service, seeing himself steal his great-uncle's twin sabers and his father's cherished white horse and fleeing from the city's gates. It was by luck that he ran across the village, seeing the barbarians with their spears and swords running amok outside the failing walls. That was the first time he saw the man he admired now…
General Lü Meng was much different back then, though… his hair wasn't quite as long, and he seemed ripped, almost completely muscle-bound as he fought the invaders with the brute strength of his halberd alone. But besides the physical differences were the personality, as the man used no such strategy against the barbarians.
Even now he could see himself thinking, plotting, rushing to the soldiers' aid against the onslaught. He could never forget the look on the general's face, and their introduction was short, as Lu Xun merely shouted, 'Draw them to the bridge, general! We will have the advantage there!'
The look Lü Meng of the past had given him was that of a man who saw a mere child upon a white horse, yet now, when he would look at him, he saw more than just a child. Though, despite his obvious disbelief, the general seemed to have trusted him.
It was after that encounter that Lü Meng changed, gradually becoming the man that he was now. He seemed well equaled out in strength and mind, and how a man could will himself to change his faults was admirable to Lu Xun's eyes. How he wished that he could be like Lü Meng and correct his own faults.
And, looking towards the east where the distant sounds of drums could be heard, Lu Xun realized that this could be his chance. His one chance to find his balance of strength and strategy…
~*~*~*~
Beating drums was what Hua Seung wanted to hear, as he stood at the front of his flagship. The wind blew from behind him, as if urging him onto the land that beckoned for his rule. Today was the day to begin his conquest of China, and nothing, absolutely nothing could stop him. There was no warrior that could match his strength and power, no army that could match his own!
And his army… he gave them a backwards glance, watching that they piled out onto the beach, each one loaded with spears, daggers, a sword at their hip, and a bow across their chest with a full quiver of arrows on their back. The sounds of their march was music to his ears, and in his eyes, they were the perfect army.
"This land shall be mine… and all those who dwell will bow to me!" Hua Seung thought with a grin, brushing his grizzled beard in thought of his duel later today. The nerve of that man, challenging him to a duel! No man has defeated him yet…
He tried to recall the general's look, and though his features were not completely clear, he could tell that he was the man in charge. What a foolish man, Hua thought, stepping down from the bow and heading towards his cabin, to grab his own dueling sword. This mere army was no match for him…
Halfway there, he caught sight of Sei Rong, and his perfect mood was shattered just by the mere sight of him. He knew why he lingered there. "What are you waiting for?"
The crippled advisor recoiled by his words, but as he stepped aside to let his captain into the cabin, he found his wit to speak again. "Sir, do you think it's odd that their commander has challenged you to a duel and not Gan Ning?"
"Gan Ning? What's he got to do with it?" Hua Seung spat, spotting his velvet hilt sword instantly and taking it within his grasp, practicing a few swipes and enjoying the sound of his silver blade cutting against the wind.
"He was once a pirate too, and you of all people know of his skills." Sei Rong pointed out, making sure to keep at a safe distance from that swinging blade. "If they wished for success, they would have sent him out."
That glare from the pirate captain would have killed any man, and what kept him from slitting his throat at that very second was a mystery. Hua Seung, now angered, shouted, "Why else would he not? Years ago, he would have been a challenge to me, but now that he's aligned himself with these landlubber river-dwellers, he's grown soft! He's lost his lust for blood and lost his strength in battle. He is hardly a match for me!"
Now, with his curved sword at hand, the pirate captain stormed out of his cabins, and Sei Rong followed, limping along and sighing, "Sir, you need to approach this cautiously. There is a reason why Gan Ning is not dueling you, and though that MAY be the cause, I truly believe that they are up to something. They would not risk the life of their commander-"
He was silenced by Hua Seung's shout, as the ill-tempered captain waved his sword about, nearly taking off Sei Rong's head. "What plan would work? I will slay their commander in one swift blow, and then the rest of their army won't be worth MENTIONING… you, my crippled little freak, are too afraid of any and everything to take chances!"
"But my lord, it could be a trap!" Sei Rong shouted, backing away in fear for his life. "The commander could feign defeat and lure you into an ambush- do you think your army could continue without you?"
"Their commander will be dead before he could even turn his horse about; I will slay him and I will slay his horse should it even try!" Hua Seung bellowed, grabbing his advisor with one swift movement and forcing him against the side, to look out at the army that was advancing slowly onto the Southland's banks. "Look at that army, Sei Rong… do you think their men will bear the mere SIGHT of it? They challenge me because they fear me, and they think that by eliminating me early, the threat will be gone. To them, this is a bad dream, and they are merely wishing to open their eyes and wake, but do you know what they will see when they open their eyes?"
There came no reply, and Sei Rong found himself on the floor, hearing the captain's reply as he nursed his new bruise. "They will see what they fear, and that is an army that they can not stop, led by a man that they can not defeat! Do you think their men will stand for such a sight? They will run in fear at the sight, and the ones brave enough will not be a match to our strength! No one can stop this army! Not Gan Ning, nor can the ones he aligned himself to!"
And what could Sei Rong say after this proclamation? He wasn't even given the chance to say otherwise as two soldiers rushed towards their captain, guiding a long-haired black horse to its master. As Hua Seung sheathed his dueling sword, he mounted the stead, giving his orders to the crippled man as the soldiers readied the gangplank. "You're to stay aboard this ship until nightfall, then join with the main force. I'm giving you three thousand men, so make sure none of my ships go missing."
"Yes my lord…" Sei Rong muttered, saying nothing more as the captain gave his horse a kick, running down the gangplank and onto the beach. Seeing the warrior leave made Sei Rong relax, and he sighed, bringing himself up to spat in Hua Seung's general direction. "I fear an ambush, but perhaps only by death can he see how wrong he is…"
~*~*~*~
Across the southern shores, the sounds of war had reached across the land, and the horde of pirates made their way into Wu's territory, marching until their lord shouted for them to stop. That very lord rode at the front of his army, a banner with his name on it attached to the back of his horse, reading 'Pirate Lord Hua Seung'. Up and down his line he ran, checking every last one of them and shouting his orders. Now, all he had to do was await the arrival of his opponent…
One of Seung's generals, a scruff balding man by the name of Cheng Lu, eyed the terrain, not liking the surface at all. This land was definitely not meant for Calvary, and he noted the woods in the background.
As Hua Seung rode towards him, he called for his lord's attention, and with his own spear, he pointed towards the land before the woods. "Sir, this land forbids the use of a good Calvary; perhaps we should send a scout out to investigate the area."
"A waste of time, don't you think?" Hua Seung replied, looking to the land himself and spatting. "They had no more than a day at most to prepare for us… they would not waste their energy that is meant to be spent on fighting on setting anything."
"Best to be cautious at least…" Cheng Lu replied, giving a snort. "Wouldn't trust these types as far as I can throw them… people will do anything to live."
"Noted and ignored."
So what else was knew? "Yes sir. Your orders?"
"Take the Calvary down that path right there…" Hua Seung turned his spear up and showed him the flatlands. "They'll most likely try to feign defeat; I will chase them through there, while you cut them their retreat."
"Aye captain."
Suddenly, their own war drums were matched with a new one, and Hua Seung turned his steed around, seeing the army that now approached them. Needless to say, against his OWN forces, it was quite a pathetic sight, and bright red banners lighted the sky, blowing with the wind as the Wu army approached them. They cut off several meters apart, and even at their distance, Hua Seung could sum up the look they all shared.
Fear.
"Would you take a look at that? Pathetic!"
Cheng Lu could not help but laugh, agreeing with his lord. "I do not see the former Pirate of the Silken Sails there, though… perhaps he's abandoned their ranks at the sound of your name?"
"For him I do not care if he stays to fight or flees like a dog… all I want is that duel."
No sooner had he spoken, the drums got louder, and around the army rode a single rider, glad in golden armor and feathers that danced with the wind on top of his helmet. His black horse matched his black hair that was lose from under the heavy helmet, and his halberd looked as formidable against his own spear… And his banners read 'Majestic Tiger Lü Meng'.
The Wu soldiers' fears seemed to die away at the sight of their own commander, and they cheered for him, as he mimicked Hua Seung's own actions, riding back and forth before the front line, holding his halberd up and shouting orders of his own. Somehow, he had to keep their morale up… he had to keep his OWN morale up…
"There he be… General Lü Meng…" Hua Seung commented, seeing the battle armor and the golden helmet that shielded his face. It was definitely meant to protect his face from blows to the head, and his black, long hair only seemed natural, as if it was the fake hair that came from the top. Needless to say, he looked formidable, and the pirate captain laughed. "We shall see if he's a worthy opponent. Get to work."
"Aye-aye, captain!"
With a swift kick to his muscular steed, Hua Seung charged forth onto the battlefield before him, not caring for the land of his enemies and trampling through it mercilessly. He wanted this duel, and when he heard the sound of the gong, he saw Lü Meng turn his own steed about and charge down as well… he would certainly get his duel…
At this very moment, Lü Meng's heart raced, matching the beat of the horse's thundering hooves as he charge down to meet his foe. He wasn't afraid, but anxious, wondering what kind of strength this man had. He knew himself to be quite strong, though he already knew one advantage he had over his opponent at the moment. A brain in that head of his… something that the pirate captain lacked.
"Wu sea dog, prepare to meet your doom!"
With that shout, Hua Seung gave his spear a thrust, hoping to slay his enemy instantly as their horses crossed. He failed, as the spear simply bounced off of the armor, leaving a scratch, and by the time he got his horse to turn around, Lü Meng struck with a thrust of his horse, aiming for the horse and guiding it this away and around, to keep himself turned to his own people and not his enemy's. A good strategy, Gan Ning had to admit, watching from a safe distance, as the duel began to heat up. He knew of Cheng Lu's forces heading towards the right path, but he did nothing. That was exactly where he wanted him to go…
After a few bouts, Hua Seung had to admit; Lü Meng knew what he was doing. Not only did he have the wit to counter each move, but he had the strength to knock his spear away and attempt to lay in a hit or two, something that Hua Seung WASN'T used to. And as much as it displeased him, he grinned, instantly loving the man's spirit.
And Lü Meng was rather surprised with himself… he matched the pirate captain blow for blow. However, he allowed no room for a big ego, remembering the strategy and circling around the pirate, more to anger him than to look for an advantage. Though he wasn't afraid, his own horse was terrified by the opponent's own monster. However, the horse obeyed its master, finding the courage within himself and soaking the courage from him as well, to face the wild steed.
It was perhaps the twenty-fifth bout when Hua Seung began to grow annoyed by the other man's tactics. This wasn't a duel! Lü Meng was TAUNTING him, dancing around him rather than anything else. And this was pissing him off…
Lü Meng narrowed his gaze, realizing he wouldn't be able to put up the fight for much longer. And his horse was beginning to lose its nerves, as he jumped back and nearly knocked his master off. Finally, Lü Meng nodded… it was time.
As Hua Seung went for a strike, it never connected, and, pulling back on his reigns, Lü Meng's steed shot to its hind legs, kicking its front feet in an attempt to harm Hua's own horse before turning about completely and making a mad dash up the hill. There was slight confusion amongst the pirates, as if they had never seen such an act before, and Hua Seung finally calmed down his own steed, to hear Wu's gong vibrate, announcing the return of their general.
"What… the hell?!" Hua Seung bellowed, his fist trembling with rage. How DARE someone do such a thing to him in the middle of a duel?! If pissing him off was part of Lü Meng's plan, then it worked like a charm! "You spineless dog! How dare you?! I'll have your head for insulting me!"
The Wu general didn't even have to turn around to see his plan was working, as Hua Seung was hot on his heels. And, by the sound of the thundering feet behind him, he figured that now, by angering their captain, the horde was now on the move. He shouted to his men, no fear whatsoever in his voice. "Fall back! Fall back into the woods!"
They did not need a second order, as they practically disappearing from the pirates' sights, their small force making it so easily to escape from the coming chaos. Not Lü Meng, though… Hua Seung was hot on his heels, and there was definitely no shaking him. 'Good…' he thought, kicking his horse to make it run faster. As long as he got the captain's attention…
And Hua Seung was so enraged that he completely ignored the fact that they were now entering the woods. Slicing away a vine to clear his way, the pirate captain chased relentlessly, shouting one insult after another to his fleeing opponent. But nothing seemed to work… Lü Meng simply would not stop. But he was going to make him…
He never noticed that his forces never entered the woods, and had he not been so caught into catching up to the faster general's horse, he would have seen the traps that his men clumsily fell into. Running firmly behind their lord, the pirates never noticed the softness of the grass and dirt beneath their feet, and the pit was more than just a hole in the ground, but at the bottom laid spikes, meant for one thing only. Sudden death.
Seeing their fellow men fall into the traps wasn't too starting for them, as they simply moved their direction. However, even that seemed unsafe, as the same results happened, slaying more men, and it seemed that they hit almost EVERY trap, no matter which direction they went. It wasn't long before the front line was no more, and what was worse, was by the time they finally reached the front of the woods, to join their lord, they fell to arrows, small spears, and stones.
Though they were a massive force, seeing the fate of those ahead of them was enough to halt the army, and generals tried to calm their troops, to relieve the confusion… however, nothing seemed to work, halting the massive force for a short while.
And where was their leader? Still chasing his prey within the woods. He was hot on his trail until he noticed another horseman run across from him, and he paused, seeing the same golden helmet with the sleek black hair emerge from it. By the time he looked forward, there was no sign of the original chase, and, cursing, he turned his horse about, to give chase to 'Lü Meng'. "You bastard… you cannot escape from ME!"
The man remained silent, leaping over a log and trying to escape the man's wrath. And, as Hua Seung leapt over the very same log, he barely caught the halberd with his spear, knocking it aside and finding himself in a completely different direction. Dark green eyes met his own through the helmet, but before he could attempt another blow, he was gone. And what did Hua Seung do?
He followed!
By the six or seventh alter of direction, something just didn't seem quite right within the pirate captain. His horse was getting exhausted, not used to the humidity and the heat of the Southland, yet Lü Meng's horse seemed fresh. And was it the heat, or was Lü Meng's halberd always switching hands?
Once again he was caught off guard, but this time, his horse wasn't too lucky, getting a slash at it's side and coming too close to bucking his master off. However, 'Lü Meng' didn't follow through with the kill, giving a laugh and turning to flee. Now, his horse was tired, and it limped, but it dared not stop, in fear of displeasing his master.
"When I catch you, you'll be nothing more then feed for the sharks!" Hua Seung threatened, giving chase and forgetting the feeling he had but a few minutes ago. He drove himself deeper and deeper into the woods, his only goal was to slay his prey mercilessly…
Rather it was the heat or the pure frustration of the craftiness of his enemy, Hua Seung was fed up with the chase, and, gripping his spear, he reeled it back, taking a good aim at the general ahead of him. He gave a battle cry, letting it fly, and his aim was partially true. The horse gave a whine before collapsing, crushing its master under its dead weight as he wailed its last moment of life. Laughing triumphantly, Hua Seung went for the kill, aiming to remove the general's head with one swift blow from his curved sword…
"Farewell, Lü Meng!"
But his blade never fell, and by pure instincts alone, he dodged the halberd that nearly drove itself into his side, instead catching it under his arm and using brute force to knock the assailant off of his horse. Whoever it was, he was smart, using the momentum to take him down with him, and it wasn't long before he found himself on the damp forest floor, sword at hand and staring with disbelief at his opponent.
It was Lü Meng!
As unbelievable as it was, Lü Meng stood across from him, halberd at hand, and ready for battle. The pirate captain took a second to look at the man he crushed underneath the dying horse, seeing him still there, staring at them, and then he looked back at the man before him. Finally, he seemed to catch on…
"Decoys, eh? Crafty little devil, I'll hand THAT much to you…" Hua Seung could not grin; he was too pissed off to grin, and he gave a laugh, driving his spear from the dying horse and ready to continue his duel. And Lü Meng seemed ready too, crouching slightly to brace himself. "No more running, coward! Face me!!!!"
And Lü Meng merely lowered his head, his golden eyes sparkling to answer him…
The duel was very quick, and as he dove to cut his opponent in half, Lü Meng moved with amazing speed, dodging the blow and laying a kick to the back of his knees, sending the pirate captain to his rear. In his slightly confused state, Hua Seung could tell that the man had mounted his steed again, and he tried to leave again, but Hua stopped him, using the hilt of his bloodied spear to knock the man off of his horse. Once again, the fighting commenced…
"Why won't you face me like a man?!"
Lü Meng did not respond, quickly raising his halberd to hold back the spear. Somehow, rather the man was weak or his strength had grown since a few minutes ago, Lü Meng fell back, unable to defend against his own brute strength. And, taking the opportunity, he gripped his sword, once again trying to cut his opponent in two.
This time, the sword connected, and though he expected to see blood rise from his now opened chest, all Hua Seung was feathers explode and fly into the air, dancing around his opponent and himself. As Lü Meng hit the ground, it suddenly struck the pirate captain, but it was already too late. He could hear the sound of thundering hooves rise from behind him, as he looked at the fallen 'Lü Meng' at his feet. "Another decoy?!"
"YAHHHHHHHHHHH!" The true Lü Meng cried out, thrusting his halberd and getting the befuddled pirate right in the arm, tearing off the shoulder pad and leaving a nasty mark. And, by the time Lü Meng had turned around, he gave the order, making sure himself and the two decoys were at a safe distance. "FIRE!"
Things seemed to slow down for Hua Seung, and though he expected to feel the pain of the arrows, he could not, hearing the cry of Cheng Lu hit there air before a strong hand grabbed him, practically dragging him a few feet before he was able to mount the horse with the wounded general.
Lü Meng cursed, ready to pursue, however, he did no such thing, allowing Fate to have its way for today. Instead, he dismounted, turning to the wounded decoys, and he was going to help the one closest to him, but he refused, pointing to the one stuck under the horse. "I'm fine sir…"
That voice… in a swift movement, he removed the helmet, and much to his surprise, he could see Lu Xun's sweat dampened face, slight pain raising in his golden eyes as he panted. As the feathers started to fall around them, Lü Meng could not control the slight rage in his voice from revealing itself, "Lu Xun! What the blazes are were thinking?! You… you could have been killed!"
"Help the other one first…" Lu Xun replied quickly, trying to avoid to subject as he winced. Lü Meng let his eyes venture towards the man's chest, seeing the arm that covered it and removing it. By this time the other decoys and the archers had arrived, and he gasped, seeing the bloody feathers that the boy had tried to hide. "I'm… I'm fine sir…"
"Lu Xun, you fool…" Lü Meng muttered, then turning to the closest man to him. "Get the forces together… we'll make camp a few miles back. And get the first aid tent ready…"
The man nodded, and as the other soldiers went to aid the other fallen decoy, Lü Meng lifted Lu Xun into his arms, despite his reluctance. "Lord Lü Meng, I'm alright!"
"No you're not… you need medical attention, and you need it quickly!"
"But-" Slightly glazed over eyes and a flush face looked at his superior, and Lu Xun could see the concern light up in Lü Meng's eyes, as if he blamed himself for what happened. Lü Meng didn't even say a word, and the boy submitted, merely nodding his head and offering no struggle. As embarrassing as it was to be carried by his friend, he made no verbal complaint… fighting the pain and gripping Lü Meng's clothing to get a better grip.
"What about Hua Seung?" a soldier asked.
Lü Meng gave a quick answer. "If the traps worked, then his army should be stalled for now, and after what he just been through, it would be suicidal for him to return… we succeeded for now, but now, we rest…"
No one dared disagree with him, and, holding Lu Xun in his arms and somehow gripping the reigns to his horse, he and his men retreated deeper into the woods. He was afraid now, but he said nothing as Lu Xun finally lost consciousness in his arms. He only hoped now that Gan Ning could do his part of the plan without difficulty… and for a split second, he wondered if sending his friend out with only himself and a few men was a bad idea.
'No… if there's anyone for the job, it's definitely him…'