Chapter 1

The words that Pang Tong earlier has spoken still haunts Zhao Yun's mind, repeating and reflecting the meanings, not noticing flaws within Pang Tong's usual speeches. He didn't want to know, he didn't want anyone to see him, and he didn't want to disgrace his lord further. All he cared was to leave Shu behind, not taking a glance behind him, he tighten his grip at the reins, tears threatening to stream down Zhao Yun's strong defense. The tiger general shut his eyes, not wishing to leak a single drop of tear as his steed galloped through the plains.

***

Zhuge Liang found it hopeless, after four hours of searching; his tiredness is nipping silently behind of the strategist's mind. Not a single clue to be found, not a single trail to be traced, Zhao Yun's last words with him reminded him within his mind to rest, which he found the words to be agreed with. The thought itself only caused further urge for him to return to the camp, so he can gain his rest as soon as possible. He was defeated in his mind, Zhuge Liang knows that if he doesn't rest soon enough, he'll soon catch flu and fall ill. Defeated in mind, Zhuge Liang turned and started heading back to the base camp.

Stay Cautious…

The strategist's drowsiness immediately faded in to nothingness as he heard the words ranged clearly in his mind. He could clearly see the camp by the time he heard it.

Don't fall in unconsciousness…

Kongming have to admit the fact that he has been hearing voices for a little while. It has leaded him to safety numerous times; he was doubtless that this one will be the same. Obedient to his mind, he approached the encampment cautiously, fully alerted.

"Hello there, Prime Minister."

Zhuge Liang snapped his head to Pang Tong; it was clearly to Pang Tong that Zhuge Liang found it awkward for Pang Tong to appear here. Zhuge Liang carried the very same expression as Zhao Yun carried. It was only a short moment that Zhuge Liang's face turned in to one's confusion. There was something unusual with his comrade and friend.

"What are you doing here?" Zhuge Liang decided the course for this will be straight and forward, avoiding any precious time being wasted in a necessary conversation.

"Why can I not be doing here?" Pang Tong shifted his staff, Zhuge Liang's focus immediately turned in to the staff, which caused uncomforting motion in Young Phoenix's movements.

It was crystal clear; Pang Tong will never disobey the strategist at any moment, not this. Zhuge Liang still remembers the time when he ordered Pang Tong to stay at Luo Castle. It was unforeseen for Pang Tong for the sudden movements, Zhuge Liang had his short sword out and the tip was barely touching Pang Tong's neck. Slowly and cautiously, Zhuge Liang slipped off his white stallion, having the tip of his blade at the shorter strategist. As soon as he was at ground, Zhuge Liang did not give a thought as he ripped the hat and mask that was once concealing Pang Tong's face.

Zhuge Liang's eye show no expression when he observed the person whom was soon laying at his back, cowered in fear.

"What are you doing here, imposter?" Zhuge Liang questioned out of the blue as he edged the blade closer to the imposter that had a yellow scarves tied around his head, well hinting that he serves Zhang Jiao. The young man was shaking ferociously. Careful with his own blade; Zhuge Liang moved his blade slightly away from the now shaking soldier, "What have you done?" Zhuge Liang asked again.

Slowly shuttering his words, the man barely managed to speak to the demanding strategist, "I-I-I told Zhao Y-Yun that he was-s a disgrace to Liu Bei!" He spoke the last part of his sentence in haste, hoping Zhuge Liang would spare his life. The information did not help the man's life, as Zhuge Liang jerked his knife blade closer to the man's neck, causing the soldier to cower in his inner fear, wishing he could have just crawl away.

"A disgrace?" Zhuge Liang practically yelled. The urge to dive the blade in to the man's neck was so great that the strategist didn't consider twice doing so. Soon, blood sprayed out of the slit that Zhuge Liang struck it slightly with his short sword, coating the sword maroon red.

It was almost unseen for Zhuge Liang that the weariness still lingers inside of his mind, in particular after such unfortunate event. He hurried to mount his white steed and headed inside the base camp. He needs to contact Liu Bei as quickly as possible.

The moment he stepped in to the campsite, he was greeted by Jiang Wei, whom quickly noted Zhuge Liang's worried expression, "Is there anything wrong, Prime Minister?" Jiang Wei asked with deep concern of his mentor. It was unusual for Zhuge Liang to grow worried of anything as he always prepare before hands.

"I received unfortunate news, it is urgent matters." Just as the words escaped Zhuge Liang's lips, he can feel his tardiness of his lack of sleep was started to consume his mind. He placed his hand on his forehead and shook his head a few times, shaking away his tiredness, which was hinted for Jiang Wei.

"Kongming, you need to rest…" It was unusual and uncomforting for Jiang Wei to use his mentor's style name, he have got exceedingly used to calling Zhuge Liang, Prime Minister. He swallowed his nervousness down and continued softly and a soothing voice, yet with a well-hinted worry for his counselor, "You can consult Lord Liu Bei after you rest, this is tearing you down." Jiang Wei grasped his hands around the equally tall strategist's arm, supporting the weak and tired Zhuge Liang.

A small weak smile formed in Zhuge Liang's features as he nodded, thanking his pupil for what is he doing. He was too worn out to even form words or to move his mouth for speaking.

It was then his eyes drooped down, welcoming the rest that was not contained in his schedule for days. Darkness, the soothing darkness, Zhuge Liang welcomed the darkness as he fell asleep before he could arrive at his own bed.

***

When Zhuge Liang felt the sleep lifted away from his now refreshed mind, he could heard his lord speaking to Jiang Wei, both of them stood inside the tent, speaking a hushed tone, fearing to wake up the Sleeping Dragon

A sigh could be heard, as a deeper male voice can be heard, hinting that voice belonged to his lord, Liu Bei, "We should have kept a closer look at Zhuge Liang… How long has he been exactly out?"

"I believe he had been out for a day, sir." A softer voice answered Liu Bei, according to the familiarity, the 'sleeping' strategist predict that voice belonged to his student, Jiang Wei.

"You would not have happened to know what this urgent matter Zhuge Liang is urged to discuss with me, I suppose." Liu Bei stated, even though it has an expression of a lingering question then a normal statement. Concern was still hinted in Liu Bei's voice. This is the part that Zhuge Liang decided to wake up. He almost immediately rose from his position, surprising both Jiang Wei and Liu Bei from their conversation.

Liu Bei immediately bowed his head as he placed a hand on his forehead, letting out a rich chuckle that can be heard from time to time. Liu Bei raises his head, greeting his advisor, "Good evening, my friend, I suppose you have a pleasant sleep?"

Zhuge Liang blinked a few times, as if he has just woke up. The tent was dimly lit by a single candle, which Jiang Wei was holding it with his bare hand. The younger and less experienced strategist bowed before his mentor, greeting him evening. In return, Jiang Wei received a smile from his mentor.

"You just woke up so suddenly, Prime Minister." Jiang Wei gave a mere comment, as Liu Bei smiled, agreeing with the young general.

Zhuge Liang gave an apology smile, "I apologize." Soon, he was giving his full attention to his lord, "If I may ask, what is this are you discussing about, my lord?"

"Oh, you see, Jiang Wei sent a messenger in late yesterday. I came here as quickly as I could, after I heard you fell… unconscious." Liu Bei explained slowly, examining his trusted advisor's form, which seems to be rejuvenated after the restful sleep. Seeing that Zhuge Liang wishes him to continue, he started the next part, "He also did mention there is this urgent matter you wish to speak with me about."

"I believe Jiang Wei has covered most of the information, except this urgent news…" A small worry started to surface in to Zhuge Liang's face. Liu Bei's eyebrow drew together, as he noticed Zhuge Liang's worry is starting to grow by the matter of seconds. The lord of Shu probed him on. Obediently, Zhuge Liang continued, keeping his voice steady and calm, "I met an imposter outside of the camp yesterday; he was imitating Pang Tong…" It wasn't long till Liu Bei picked up.

"No wonder there is a corpse laying on the gate front." Liu Bei commented with his slightly surprised voice. Zhuge Liang was fully aware that his lord wishes him to continue, so the lingering question would be answered.

"Yes, my lord. I killed the imposter when I have learned what he spoke to Zhao Yun." Zhuge Liang bowed in apology; in fact, both Liu Bei and Jiang Wei had their attention to Zhao Yun's sudden disappearance as well. It was very unlikely for Zhao Yun to not return immediately after he received orders from the Prime Minister himself. Zhuge Liang's voice filled the silent, yet tense, air as he continued with his news, "There are some… disgraceful words that was spoken to Zhao Yun. If I am correct, Zhao Yun would not bare to come face to face with anyone of us, unless…"

Liu Bei's frown deepens as Zhuge Liang's voice trailed in to nothingness. The Imperial Uncle was clear of this cue from Zhuge Liang, in fact so clear that he wonders what horror his advisor is scheming about. The Prime Minister of Shu rarely does such thing, but Liu Bei already knows by heart that Zhuge Liang knew whatever he is to suggest, the Lord of Shu would not agree with his view. He urged Zhuge Liang to finish his words, "Unless…?"

"Unless one of us discovers his position and come face to face with him." Zhuge Liang spoke slowly, avoiding the suspicious glance he is receiving from both Jiang Wei and Liu Bei. Anyone who has been close acquaintances or comrades with The Sleeping Dragon would have known the sign Zhuge Liang shown.

"I suppose that isn't the end of it, Prime Minister." Jiang Wei said lowly, trying not to disturb the conversation between his mentor and his lord. Liu Bei did not take notice of Jiang Wei's comment, as he could fairly tell how awkwardly Zhuge Liang ended his sentence.

The Sleeping Dragon hesitated slightly, before filling the atmosphere with his controlled voice again, "I request that I will do the investigation." Liu Bei sighed in response before giving a glance that told Jiang Wei to give his comments.

"But, Prime Minister, will you not wear yourself out again?" Jiang Wei asked quietly, feeling discomfited that he is giving a comment, even though Liu Bei has given his permission to do so.

Instead of answering Jiang Wei's comment, as he knew this was coming, Zhuge Liang gave a question of his very own, "My lord, I apparently believe that you do not trust me that I can and will take care of myself. I swear that I would not tire myself, not in this matter as Zhao Yun relies on me. However, at this point, I should be safe, with Wei and Wu as our allies."

Liu Bei cannot do much but to feel his decisions being wavered. Can he trust Zhuge Liang in this? He has always put trust on the genius strategist in every case and matters, yet why does it seem so hard to do so in this…

The younger strategist gave a glance toward Liu Bei's troubled face. He could clearly read that Liu Bei wants to and wishes to give what Zhuge Liang requested for; to investigate this by his own hands and talk to Zhao Yun personally. Zhuge Liang probably has seen the same thing from Liu Bei's uncertain eyes, as he added another comment, "I have discovered this and I believe I will be the one that finish this."

Liu Bei gave an apology look to Jiang Wei, the Lord of Shu was clear that Zhuge Liang's pupil wishes his mentor to stay in camp, he carefully chose his words before speaking out his decision, "Kongming, it is not that I do not trust you, it is recently that you have been stressing yourself and have not given yourself an appropriate time to sleep. But, I suppose I can do nothing but to lay this matter at your hands, you have always been the stubborn one." Zhuge Liang let a small chuckle as he hear the last part of his lord's comment. Pure relief was shown clearly in his dark eyes, Liu Bei continued though, "But, you must get a certain amount of rest if you are to search for Zhao Yun."

Zhuge Liang bowed in return, thankful for his lord's trust. "My lord, I wish to keep my departure closed away from Zhang Jiao or any of his followers. They might do a hunt for me, if they figured out." The strategist advised, Liu Bei draw his eyebrows together as he heard what Zhuge Liang said.

"Something tells me that you wish to go alone, as in complete alone." Liu Bei predicted, as he studied the younger man's face with a pair of his narrowed eyes. Zhuge Liang can't help but to smile sheepishly, "What if you are being hunted then? You will not have guards."

"Then I request a hundred troops under my command during my search." Zhuge Liang said, knowing well that his lord has hit right on the nail and there are no arguments on this.

Liu Bei nodded, positive that what Zhuge Liang has wished will be done. Finally, he turned toward the almost-forgotten Jiang Wei, "You'll take Zhuge Liang's position during his absence… I have great trust in you, Jiang Wei, not only because that you are a scholar under Zhuge Liang… The fact that you have shown great validity in battle, I hope you will not fail me."

The Sleeping Dragon has a trace of a smile, hanging at the corner of his lips, seeing Jiang Wei's expression was amusing. The younger strategist feature has turned in to one's shocked, slowly he shuttered out the words that have been echoing in his mind, "Oh my… I am certain there are better strategist then me to carry Prime Minister's position in battle."

Liu Bei's rich laughter filled the air, extending Zhuge Liang's transparent smile in to one genuine smile that have not been seen for awhile, especially after the report of the Yellow Turban Rebellion. Turning to Zhuge Liang, he found it amusing that on Zhuge Liang's feature wore his genuine smile, "When will you depart then?"

"I shall depart tomorrow, if you have no objection against my decision, my lord." Zhuge Liang asked though he knew that his lord will wishes him to rest for a longer duration then this. Liu Bei managed to catch a glimpse of the very look that represents what Zhuge Liang is feeling at this moment.

"I have no objections…" Liu Bei trailed off as he realize exhaustion flooded in to Zhuge Liang's features, he decided to allow Zhuge Liang rest more, especially who knows if Zhuge Liang will keep his words, "Jiang Wei, we shall allow Zhuge Liang to rest, let's not disturb him." Zhuge Liang bowed to Liu Bei, thankful for his lord's decision.

"Understood, my lord." Jiang Wei spoke softly, as he left the camp, leaving Liu Bei to bid Zhuge Liang farewell. The Imperial Uncle gave a smile to the Prime Minister before departing from Zhuge Liang's room, leaving the already weary Zhuge Liang to rest. As the strategist laid himself on bed, he realized how tired he actually was, it took no more to drift the tired strategist in to rest.

***

Riding in his horse alone, leaving Zhao Yun in his very own thoughts was not exactly what the tiger general wished for. The words that the imposter Pang Tong said still echoed clearly in his troubled mind, Zhao Yun didn't care where he is going or what he is doing. It was all an abyss for him; he did not consider what Zhuge Liang said to him previously.

Zhuge Liang, a person that Zhao Yun somehow found himself being wrapped around the smooth and calm voice of the Prime Minister of Shu. Just as that very thought went pass the tiger general's mind, he felt a blush arise, that single thought of Zhuge Liang was like a small spark of hope in the deep abyss he was now in. However, Pang Tong's words still dive deep in his mind, like a strong wind, the hope died without a single trace.

What if I love him…? As a disgrace to my lord, I'll never see him again to tell him the truth…

He could feel tears threatening to spill through his eyes, yet he swallowed down the urge to weep and continued his way away from Shu and the other kingdoms…

***End of Chapter***

Author's note: A bunch of talking chapter, I am sorry if you are those people who enjoy reading dramatic stories. I hope the next chapter will come out a bit more exciting as I have planned.