Okay, I know, I'm changing the course of history. But it's fiction; live with it, as I'll be doing it a lot.

And… I'm dedicating this chapter to Mufy-sis' friend, Sylvina (on FFN), who was more than likely hopping agitatedly in impatience for this chapter.

The Prodigy and the Dragon

Two ambushes, one prodigy and a very lucky shot.

Crossing the room, Jiang Wei pointed at a map, swaying gently from a breeze. Governor Ma is so very slow on the uptake…

Clearing his throat, "Allow me three thousand soldiers, Governor. I will set up an ambush. Lead out your soldiers, as planned before, but when I give the signal, turn back and attack."

A slight smile crept over Jiang Wei's lips, "If Zhuge Liang is there we will capture him, as well as repel the invasion. Two birds with one stone, no?"

Wonder dawned on Ma Zun's face, in amazement at the youthful strategist.

"You are truly a genius, General Jiang."

Pale mists, rolling down the dark hills surrounding the city, obscured the emerald-bannered troops. Glimmering moonlight, struggling to pierce the clouds, threw down scanty beams of light.

"Bao (1)!" Gasping for air, the petite messenger collapsed into a bow, trembling.

Good news, I hope. "Yes?"

Head still bowed, "General Zhao, Ma Zun's forces have left the city." Eyes raised, he looked to the general for further commands.

It's time for action. Mounting his horse, a click of his fingers brought his subordinates at a gallop.

"Zhang Yi, Gao Xiang; attack Ma Zun. I will take the city in one blow. Move out."

Saluting, the two subordinates led off their troops. Zhang Yi, leaning slightly, whispered to his colleague.

"I don't have a good feeling about this."

Laughing, Gao Xiang teasingly poked fun at him. Brushing off his comments, a deep pit of apprehension grew in Zhang Yi's gut.

Faint fingers of wind played with loose strands of hair, touching his face. Jiang Wei pulled his hair back into the usual ponytail, never breaking his gaze at the approaching troop.

Pale moonshine glinted off the armour of the leading general. Emerald flags dangling limply, emblazoned with the Shu hanzi, silently announced the arrival the so-called ambush.

So they have arrived… The rising wind, softly howling, lifted the banner of the leading general. Zhao… So it is he. Seeing that the banners flew towards the Shu army, he pointed at them, initiating his plan.

Fiery streaks whipped through the night, imbedding themselves in brittle straw bundles. A spark flared, then bundle after bundle ignited in fiery succession.

Here goes…

"Forwards!"

A tumultuous roar sounded. For a moment, Zhao Yun thought he could hear the cry of each individual soldier. Still silence deafened

"I am Zhao Zilong of Changshan! Surrender now, and you will save many lives."

Sardonic laughter met his words, mocking him. A young man leaned over the ramparts, calling, "On the contrary, you have fallen into my trap."

Cries filled the air, as fire leapt up, surrounding them, surprise widening Zhao Yun's eyes. I don't believe it; they were prepared.

The chaotic sounds of battle ensued, blue and green armoured soldiers clashing. Pikes collided, swords rang and men cried, life flashing before their eyes. For every indigo-coated soldier that fell, two of their foe fell with them.

A youthful general rode up, setting his spear. Charging, he boldly cried, "I am Jiang Wei! Come forth and meet your death like a man!" I hope…

Sparks flew, as spearheads struck against one another harmlessly. Spears locked, both struggled to gain the upper hand.

Damn, he's good! Perspiration beaded his forehead, threatening to fall into narrowed malachite eyes.

Breaking free with a grunt, spurring his bay forwards, the younger man managed to draw a crimson line down the opposing general's arm. Ha! Got him!

You're good, but I won't go down that easily. Silvery mane flying, his horse wheeled around, a metallic object thudded to the earth, abandoned by it's owner. Brushing dusky bangs off his face; Zhao Yun shot a glare at the Wei general. I'll end this…

Cold fire smouldering in those emerald eyes, the proud manner he maintained, handsome face twisted in anger; the Little Dragon was even more intimidating in rage. Relentless steel aimed for Jiang Wei's throat, yet…

Icy calmness washed over him, surprising, for one that was going to die. Mind blank, Jiang Wei gave the signal for his archers to fire. If I die, I will drag him down with me… Drawing an arrow, he let loose a shot, squeezing his eyes shut. I wonder how death feels like? Will it hurt?

Feathers rippling with the flight, the arrow spun towards its target.

White-hot pain struck his senses, traveling up his arm, releasing the Fierce Dragon against his will. That Jiang Wei shot me… I…

Sickening thuds, men hitting the bloodstained battlefield, arrows embedding themselves in flesh…combined with the numbing pain in his arm, forcing him to his decision. Grudgingly, Zhao Yun turned his horse for the Shu camp.

"Retreat!" The order fell, unwilling, from his lips.

The sickening sound, as steel tore into muscle, ensued by a harsh croak from Jiang Wei's target. Jiang Wei opened his eyes, relief sweeping over him.

I'm… alive!

Regaining his composure, he ordered, "After them!"

A wave of blue-coated soldiers began the chase, eager for battle. Russet eyes fixed on the glimmering orbs above; he thanked heaven for sparing him.

Weary, sore and defeated, the general and his troops slowly trekked back to the camp, lacking the confidence that emanated days ago. Zhang Yi snuck a glance at his commanding general, worried for him.

Weary and bitter with loss, Zhao Yun rested his head on the silvery-white mane of Xue (2). Closing his eyes, he held back another groan of pain, shutting out the image of his arm, hanging limply at his side, shafted arrowhead still imbedded.

"General?"

There was no response, for he was slumped listlessly against Xue's neck, oblivious to Zhang Yi's inquiry.

(1) Report. When a messenger runs in screaming this, he has an urgent report to relay.

(2) snow.

A/N: A battle scene written by someone who has absolutely no experience; I hope it wasn't too hard to follow along. I must thank the readers that review, thank you very much! Wheee, for the first time, I didn't end at a cliffie.Or did I? Ah, I'm spamming my own author note; better stop before someone kicks me off.