Zhang He – Jùnyì
Zhang Liao – Wényuǎn
Cao Cao – Mèngdé
Xiahou Dun – Yuánràng
Xun Yu – Wénruò
Jia Xu – Wénhé
Cao Pi – Zǐhuán
Zhao Yun – Zǐlóng
Zhang Fei – Yìdé
Guan Yu – Yúncháng
Guo Jia – Fèngxiào
Dong Zhao - Gōngrén
Xun You – Gōngdá
Liu Bei – Xuándé
Li Dian – Mànchéng
Yu Jin – Wenze
Xiahou Yuan - Miàocái

Yuan Shao was in a good mood. First, his army had completely eradicated Gongsun Zan and now his brother had begged, BEGGED, him for forgiveness. He was absolutely delighted when he read Shu's message beseeching him for refuge. He must have read it over twenty times, enjoying each subsequent reading more than the last.

Shao, being the magnanimous man he is, told his brother that he would forgive him…under the condition that he surrendered his army and the imperial seal to him. Shu, desperate for protection readily agreed and now Shao had only to wait for his brother to join him in Ji Province.

Shao was truly in a great mood. So why did his generals seem intent on ruining that?

"My lord, I ask that you allow me to serve as an escort for your brother," Zhang He said as he punctuated his words with an elegant bow that made Shao roll his eyes.

"There is no need for that," argued Guo Tu. "He has his own troops, he can make the trip on his own. Why should we waste our resources?"

"Because after foolishly launching so many attacks against us, he has decreased his own forces. If he gets attacked, he won't be able to withstand it," Ju Shou replied.

"Who is going to attack him? No one even knows he is coming!" Tu argued. "My lord. I urge you to ignore their foolish advice and conserve your forces. There is no reason to risk troops."

"The very reason he sought refuge from lord Shao is because there are too many people are calling for his head. It is not a stretch to assume that someone may be lying in wait for him," Zhang He reasoned.

"It is his own fault for calling himself emperor. He should have known better!" Tu argued.

He frowned. Tu seemed to have his mind already set on leaving Shu on his own, but surely Yuan Shao would be of a different mind. He was his brother, after all.

"Is your brother not coming here as an ally? Aren't his troops to become your own? You are not going just to save your brother, my lord, you are going to protect what is now yours," said He.

"I don't recall you being a strategist," Tu spat.

"Well I am, and I agree with Jùnyì," Shou countered.

"Enough of all of you," Shao finally said. He was getting a headache listening to them go back and forth.

"We will send no aid to my brother. He has not formally sworn allegiance to me yet so I see no reason to protect him."

"But my lord—"

"I have spoken, Jùnyì," Shao said cutting him off.

He was not happy but he knew better than to argue. He gave his lord a bow and left the room quietly.

Shou followed after him.

"Your plan was a good one," he said once they were out into the hall. "Lord Shao is going to regret not following it if Shu does get attacked."

"I have been given a new title, but my voice is as small as ever. What was it even for?" He asked sadly.

"Extra teals," Shou replied with a sigh.

It was meant as a jest, but both knew that the statement held truth to it. All the titles Shao had given out amounted to nothing. They were paid a little extra to keep them pacified but that was all it was. Tu made sure that was all it was.

"And such a thing is not enough to sate me. One will never grow into the butterfly they are meant to be if they are forced to stay within their cocoon."

"I know, Jùnyì. I am sorry. While Tu holds his ear, there isn't much that can be done. His voice overshadows all others."

"A foolish voice that knows only to squawk instead of sing. He will lead our lord to ruin."

Shou frowned. That very thought had haunted his dreams for many nights.

=#=

Zhuyue soared over Lingqi's cross-bladed voulge with butterfly kick. Her armored boot kicked the voulge back towards Lingqi as she landed making the woman stumble backward to avoid her own blade.

Lingqi rebounded and threw the voulge at Zhuyue. As she anticipated, Zhuyue was too close to dodge in time so she had to block the attack. Zhuyue underestimated the strength behind Lingqi's throw. She managed to weather the attack but she was knocked off balance and Lingqi pounced immediately. She was levying heavy strike after strike at Zhuyue. Pushing her back with each blow, hoping to knock her off her feet.

Zhuyue couldn't keep blocking these attacks. Each attack she blocked shook her hands and arms violently, making it harder and harder to keep hold of her weapon. Zhuyue focused on Lingqi's attacks. While they were powerful, she noticed that Lingqi was slower than her. Perhaps she could use that to her advantage.

Lingqi kept attacking. She could feel her victory getting closer with each strike. Confidently, she pushed Zhuyue back, putting even more force into her attacks when to her surprise, her last attack did not strike against Zhuyue's weapon. It cut harmlessly through the air at the spot where Zhuyue no longer stood. Lingqi whipped her head to the side to see that Zhuyue opted to side step the attack. How she had the time or speed to do that, she didn't know but she needed to prepare for her attack. Zhuyue moved to attack with her weapon. Lingqi raised hers in preparation to attack but winced upon feeling a kick to her side. Zhuyue's original attack was a feint.

Lingqi dodged backwards to put distance between them but Zhuyue had no intention on giving her time to breathe. She threw her duck blades out forcing Lingqi to block them. With the twitch of her finger on the cord tied to the handles of her blades, Zhuyue had them sailing back to her hand only to toss them back out again in rapid succession.

Lingqi could do nothing but block as Zhuyue continued to throw her duck blades in unpredictable patterns.

"That's enough," said Dun.

Zhuyue recalled her weapons back into her hand and began wrapping the cord backed around the handle with practiced ease. Lingqi approached Zhuyue and eyed her hands as she secured the cords once more.

"I wasn't expecting that."

"And I wasn't expecting the strength behind those attacks of yours," Zhuyue retorted. "I'm going to be sore tonight."

"I couldn't see a way to get through your attack," Lingqi said grumpily. This was her first time sparring with Zhuyue and she wanted to impress her. In her mind, she failed spectacularly.

"That's the way I designed it," Zhuyue replied as she hooked her weapons back on her armor and stretched. "You have to be willing to injure yourself to get past it. I'm usually an up close fighter, but there was no way I could go toe to toe with you. Not with your power. I had to fight you from a distance."

"I think you are giving my strength too much credit."

"I don't think you are giving it enough. Let me see your weapon," Zhuyue said while holding out an expectant hand.

Lingqi obliged and handed her the voulge. Zhuyue underestimated the weight of the weapon and nearly dropped it. Lingqi managed to catch it and stop it from stabbing into Zhuyue's foot and severing a few toes.

"What the hell, how do you swing this thing around so easily?" Zhuyue asked her eyes wide in amazement as she looked at the weapon.

Lingqi shrugged. "I've been training with it for so long that I just became accustomed to it."

"And you seriously still doubt your strength? Are you serious? You are messing with me, right?"

"Well…"

"Well nothing!" Zhuyue felt her arms aching from holding up the weapon. The heft of it reminded her of Dun's sword. She was able to hold it after planting her feet, but like Dun's sword, she knew there was no way in hell she would be able to wield it properly in battle.

"You need to stop underestimating yourself. Confidence is important in battle, just don't get over confident," she said as she handed the weapon back to Lingqi.

Lingqi understood what Zhuyue was talking about. She was always nervous before heading into battle. At first, it was because she was afraid of looking bad in front of her father. Now, her nerves could be attributed to the fact that she wasn't used to the different types of warriors out there. When she faced off against Xun Yu, she never encountered someone like that before in her life. It left its scar on her, one she has yet to heal.

"I'll…I'll try."

"Not try, you will."

"I will," Lingqi amended.

"Damn right you will. I'll make you," Zhuyue said with a smile.

Lingqi gave her a weak smile, knowing that Zhuyue wasn't joking around. She was going to make her be more confident in battle whether she was ready for it or not. Part of her was happy about this, she wanted to be a better warrior, but another side of her was worried about what kinds of methods Zhuyue would use.

"Don't look so worried," Zhuyue said with a laugh.

"You seem to read me so easily," Lingqi said with a sigh.

"You make yourself easy to read," Zhuyue retorted. "Besides, I see so much of myself in you…it's almost like looking in a mirror…perhaps that's why."

The next set of fighters stepped into the center of the field where Zhuyue and Lingqi had been not long ago. It was Yue Jin and Zhang Liao. Lingqi's attention immediately shifted to the two men, eager to watch the match.

"Ooooh, look how much you perk up whenever you see him. I assume things are going well with the planning?"

Lingqi blushed. She really hated that Zhuyue could see through her so easily.

"Actually…we put the planning off for now," she replied.

"What? Why? I thought you were happy to get married? You were smiling so much that it was actually annoying. What changed?"

"We didn't think now would be the best time…" she replied softly so that she wouldn't be overheard. Her gaze shifted to Xiahou Yuan who watched the match in silence.

It was odd to see him in this way. It was as if the joy had been sucked straight out of him. He didn't laugh, he didn't smile and he barely spoke. It could be understood why his demeanor was the way it was, but it was disheartening to see.

"Ah…" Zhuyue said after following her gaze to her brother-in-law. "Whose idea was this? Wényuǎn's or yours?"

"Both of ours. We just didn't think that now would be the right time."

"Idiots," said Yuan in a gruff tone.

Both women turned to see that his gaze was still on the match. They turned their attention towards it in time to see Jin hook the shaft of one of Liao's axes only for the man to jerk it back and pull a startle Jin along with him. Liao swung the other axe down towards the man but Jin blocked with his other hook blade, locking that weapon up in it as well. Both weapons now hooked, Jin pulled back with strength that seemed to startle Liao, evident from the way he stumbled forward a few paces. Jin launched himself forward and did a drop kick, aimed at his chest. Liao planted his feet just in time for the kick to do little more than push him back a few steps. Using the momentum from his previous attack, Jin twisted his body in air and landed on his feet.

Both men seemed to be at the top of their game. Zhuyue and Lingqi couldn't understand why Yuan would call them idiots. As if hearing their unspoken thoughts, Yuan spoke once more.

"I'm talking about you and Wényuǎn," Yuan clarified.

Both women turned to face him again and saw that he was now staring at them.

"Why would you put off your happiness for something…" he paused, a pained expression flashed across his face. "For something like that?" Yuan continued his mouth dipping into a frown.

"Brother," Zhuyue said softly as she moved closer to him. She placed a hand on his shoulder. "You don't have to force yourself."

"There's no need for anyone else to feel miserable. I got that role covered," he said with a wry smile. He could only hold it for a few seconds before letting his mouth drop back down into a frown.

"I just can't believe Mèngdé refused to help," Zhuyue said with a frown.

"Nor can I. I…I know I shouldn't be saying this…" Lingqi paused and looked around before dropping her voice into a conspiratorial whisper. "It isn't my place but if you decided to go after her anyway, I would gladly lend you my blade."

"Ha…you're alright, girl," said Yuan as he clapped her on the back.

The match between the Jin and Liao ended. Lingqi nodded to both of them and retrieved a cloth to give to Liao.

"Ugh, they are so adorable it's disgusting," said Zhuyue as she watched Lingqi shyly handed the cloth Liao.

Yuan let out a chuckle and Zhuyue was relieved to see it, even if it was only temporary. The sad face he wore truly did not suit him.

"Brother, you know if you decided to go and look for Xiahouji, I'll be right by your side, right? Yuánràng too."

"I know," he said with a sigh. "But a rescue operation isn't gonna happen. If we all leave to find Xiahouji, we would be deserters…family or no, Mèngdé isn't going to let that slide. His pride won't allow him to. "

"I know, but…"

"But nothing," Yuan said cutting her off. "Are you prepared to lose Xiaolian? Chong? Because that is what would be at stake. There is no way I would allow you guys to do that."

Zhuyue frowned. There was nothing she could say against that. It hurt that there was nothing she could do to help him. She couldn't even understand how he was able to be so calm about everything. If it was Xiaolian, was certain she would not be able to be as composed as he was. Seeing Yuan like this made Zhuyue realize that she still had a long way to go.

"Let me give you some advice. Get Xiaolian married as soon as possible. Mèngdé… Mèngdé isn't the man I remember. I wouldn't put it past him to marry her off to further his goals. Don't let her be a tool for him. I told the same thing to Yuánràng, but I don't think brother is ready to let his daughter go so you are gonna have to be the one to make it happen."

Zhuyue sighed. "I'm not exactly in love with the idea myself."

"Yeah well, better you choose who she goes to than Mèngdé. Not sure he'd have her best interest in mind."

Zhuyue nodded in understanding. She and Dun had spoken about it before, but both had avoided the topic since then. Xiaolian was of the age to get married but she only just turned thirteen! It was jarring to suddenly think of your little girl as a woman. She could remember when her father started talking about marrying her off when she had turned thirteen. She hated the idea and she hated him for it. She was so relieved when he got sick because the idea of her marrying off was temporarily forgotten.

"You are right…we've been putting it off, but we cannot avoid it anymore."

Zhuyue sighed again. She was not looking forward to having this discussion with Xiaolian.

"Tch, what's this about?" Yuan said as he watched Dun speaking with a servant he recognized to be one of Cao's.

"Dunno. I'm sure we'll find out soon enough," Zhuyue said with a shrug. "So how is life without Ai and Shan?" she asked in an effort to shift to a more pleasant topic.

Yuan scoffed at her words. A week after Xiahouji's disappearance, Cao finally made good on his promise to move Ai and Shan to Xiaopei. Cao tried to use the gesture as an olive branch to mend the rift between him and the Xiahou brothers but it did little to assuage the anger they felt at his inaction over Xiahouji.

"Jiao's certainly happy about it."

That was pulling it mildly. Jiao was ready to tear out her own hair over Ai's constant badgering and belittling. She regularly cried herself to sleep, feeling as if she were the worst mother in the world thanks to Ai and Shan's not so subtle criticism. Jiao hadn't shed a tear since they left.

"It just feels like it was too late, you know?" Yuan continued. "If he would have done it when we first asked then-"he cut himself off. There was no point in continuing down the what-if path. It just led to more frustration and anger; a dangerous spiral he had to actively fight to keep himself out of lately.

Zhuyue knew where he was going with it though. If Ai and Shan weren't there, Xiaolian and Xiahouji wouldn't have had to sneak off to the woods to hang out with each other. Xiahouji would still be with them right now and Xiaolian would have never been injured.

"Brother…Can I ask you something?" Zhuyue in a low tone. She shifted her gaze to Dun to ensure he was still speaking with the servant before continuing.

"Why does Ai and Shan seem to hate me and Jiao? What did we do to deserve their ire?"

"You don't fit into their order," he replied.

"What do you mean? What order?"

"Mother and father are from a different time. They see the world in a certain way. Everything has a place and there is a place for everything. They despise anything that exists outside of the place it is meant to be. You are a woman. Women bear the children and rear them. They don't pick up swords and go to war along side their husbands."

"But what about Jiao? She is the picture of a perfect wife."

"Guilt by association," Yuan replied. "I am not their true blood. I do not truly belong to them and so they always harbored a bit of an aversion to me. I knew this, ever since I was a kid, but I always hoped that I could win them over. Guess not."

Zhuyue frowned at her brother's words but he shrugged it off. He had many years to deal with it and while at times it did still sting to know the people you loved as parents did not love you back, he had mostly learned to live with it. Yuan continued.

"Anyway, being my wife already gave her one point against her. The biggie though was that Jiao simply is who I chose to marry and not who they wanted me to marry. I fell in love with Jiao the moment I laid eyes on her, but mother and father had other plans. They had a bride picked out for me; some girl from some noble family. When I told them no, that didn't sit well with them. They were cordial with Jiao at first, but after a while I guess they got too old and too tired to keep pretended like they approved of her."

"That is so…fucked," Zhuyue said. She couldn't find any other word to describe how twisted and foolish what she just heard was.

Yuan nodded in agreement.

"They tried to do the same with brother, but he wasn't having it. He knew the woman he wanted and if he didn't get her, he was content with staying alone. I remember mother and father bringing all these poor girls to meet Dun and he wouldn't even show them the least bit of interest," Yuan said with a little laugh. "I think he started to make game out of the different way he could reject their offers. He's pretty damn creative when he wants to be."

Yuan's looked to Dun to ensure that he was still talking to the servant before he continued.

"When brother first started developing feeling for you, he came to me. Told me his intentions and asked if I thought it was screwed up to bring you into that situation. I told him if he really loved you to not let our parent's foolishness take away his chance at happiness. Neither of us though it would get as bad as it did. You seemed to bring out the worst in them because you were so far away from what they thought a wife should be. But brother didn't care. He wanted you and he was prepared from the beginning to choose you over them."

Zhuyue felt at a loss for words. All of this was happening behind the scenes and she was none the wiser. There were so many questions and thoughts going through her head that she was having hard time keeping track of them all. One thought stood out amongst them all at the forefront of her mind. Dun loved her. He truly loved her. She always knew he cared, but to hear the depth of his commitment moved her in a way she hadn't expected.

"Thank you for that," she said softly. Yuan gave her a little nod. They seemed to have finished their conversation just in time. Dun had just waved the servant off before turning his attention to the others.

"Seems like Mèngdé requests our presence."

"All or us?" asked Li Dian as he waived a finger towards all in attendance before bringing it back around to point at himself.

"Everyone," Dun confirmed.

Slowly the group headed off to the palace to see what their lord had in store for them.

=#=

When the training group arrived, they were surprised to see the palace grounds filled with all of the emperor's ministers and the rest of Cao's generals that were stationed in Xuchang.

"Seems like we have a full house," Jia remarked to the group once they were by his side.

"What's this all about?" Dun asked as he looked around. He could see the ministers whispering amongst each other, their faces the picture of confusion. It seems they did not know why they were summoned either.

"No clue. Lord Cao hasn't said anything to me regarding this," Jia replied.

"Looks like we won't have to wait long," Zhuyue said as she pointed to the top of the palace stairs.

Their eyes followed her hand to see that Cao had emerged from the palace. He looked down to the others and nodded seemingly pleased with the turnout.

"I am certain that you are all curious as to why I have gathered you here."

Murmurs from the crowd confirmed his statement.

"It is with great sadness that I must announce that I uncovered a plot against our emperor."

More murmurs rose throughout the crowd, this time louder than the last. Cao could hear from surprise, panic and disbelief from the gathered generals and ministers.

"These men…no…not men…these cowards planned to have the emperor bear a child with one of their daughters. With that plan in place, they would assassinate me so the emperor would have no defense against what came next…his assassination."

More murmurs from the crowd. Zhong Ji looked around the crowd, his eyes wild with panic. His gaze fell on Wang Zifu who mirrored his fear. Somehow Cao Cao found out about the assassination plot. Not only did he found out, he was now twisting it to make their noble intentions seem malicious. There was a silent agreement passed between the two men. They didn't know how much Cao knew, but it didn't matter. They had to get out of there as soon as possible.

"Of course, since the child would be too young to rule, they planned to rule in its place, all while twisting its mind to make him a pawn in their schemes."

"Lord Cao, there are serious claims. Who are these fiends?" shouted a minister in the crowd.

"I'm glad you asked," Cao replied. With a nod of his head, his guards began to move in to apprehend the men he now knew to be members of the alliance.

"The cowards behind this plot are Dong Cheng, Wang Zifu, Zhong Ji, Wu Zilan, Liu Bei and Xun Yu," Cao announced.

Zhong Ji panicked upon hearing his name. He had been slowly making his way through the crowd, but he decided to fore-go his previous attempts at being discreet to shove his way through. He did not get far however, running into Cao's guards the moment he emerged from the crowd. Zifu and Zilan were picked out of the crowds by the guards in a similar fashion.

"This is madness. I know these men, they are good men. What proof do you have of this, lord Cao?" called an elderly minister.

"I have the word of one of the traitors themselves," Cao replied smoothly.

At his word, Cao Pi emerged from the palace with Dong Cheng. He was a shadow of his former self. No longer was he clad in decadent robes made of the finest materials. He now wore clothing woven from hemp. The red splotches peeking out from beneath his collar showed that the material was hard on his skin. His hair was an absolutely mess. Instead of being neatly tied up and tucked into a mao, it was being held loosely by a ripped piece of cloth with several strands of hair hanging outside of it. He had bags beneath his eyes and dirt adorning his cheeks and chin; his hand was bandaged, hiding the fingers Cao had chopped off.

This man was no longer the General of Chariots of Cavalry, a title given to him by the emperor himself. That was who he was a week ago. Today, standing before the crowd of ministers and generals, this was a broken man, defeated by the one he despised most.

He kept his head down, too ashamed to look out at the crowd, disgusted with his own cowardice at giving up his comrades to keep his daughter safe.

"I know that man!" Zhuyue whispered loudly as she grabbed Dun's arm.

"What?" Dun asked as he pulled his eyes from Cao to her.

"When madame Xu and I tried to get passage to return to Xuchang, that man and his bitch daughter treated me as if I was less than dirt. They refused to let us ride with them…told me to not even speak to them."

"That man is…or should I say was the General of Chariots of Cavalry. He has been a thorn in lord Cao's side since the emperor appointed him that office and gave him troops to rival our master's own," said Jia as he rubbed his chin. "Seems our lord has found a way to remove that particular thorn from his paw."

"Tell us, Dong Cheng, are my claims false?" Cao asked, not bothering to look at the man.

Cheng opened his mouth to speak but quickly closed it, feeling bile rise up into his mouth. He swallowed down the foul tasting liquid, wincing at the burning sensation as it slithered back down his throat.

"N-no," he said in a voice barely above a whisper.

"They cannot hear you," Cao said. He turned his head and looked at the man. The next words he spoke were heard only by him.

"Speak loud enough for your daughter to hear you."

Cheng got the implication. To keep his daughter safe, he had to bow to Cao's will. He swallowed again, ignoring the bile's lingering taste and spoke loud enough for all those before him to hear.

"No. Everything Cao-"

Cao's head snapped back towards Cheng, his eyes narrowed in a glare.

"I mean L-lord Cao," he quickly amended. Everything Lord Cao has said was true."

"YOU BASTARD CHENG!" shouted Zifu. "I KNEW YOU WERE UP TO SOMETHING!" He struggled against the guards, trying to break free so he could take out his vengeance upon Cheng.

Cheng did not respond. He only cast his gaze down to the stone steps below feeling even more ashamed of himself. His name would go down in history as being the villain when all he wanted to do was serve the emperor and the Han.

The crowd became a bustle of excited shouts. Cheng's admission and Zifu's outburst convinced them that Cao's words were true. They were outraged and were now calling for the traitors to be punished.

"For such a heinous crime against our emperor," Cao began, the crowd immediately silencing upon hearing him speak once more. "There is only one punishment, death; Death to the traitors and their families."

"Their families as well? Surely that isn't necessary, my lord?" called a minister.

Cao eyes shifted to the man who spoke, his face impassive. "Their families knew of their treachery and did nothing to stop them. They were complacent in these schemes."

There were a few murmurs in the crowd. It was clear to see that a few did not agree with the sentence, but none had the courage to stand up to Cao.

"I implore the rest of you to remain vigilant in these times. This plan very nearly succeeded. It is our duty to make sure something like this never happens again."

All members of the crowd acknowledged Cao's words and saluted him. Cao watched over the crowd, pleased that everything had gone according to plan. He knew that it would be difficult for such a rebellion to happen within Xuchang again.

"Steps are already being taken to capture Liu Bei and Xun Yu. Once they are captured, they too will be made to face justice for their crimes. That is all," Cao said as he turned to head back into the palace. He paused and turned on his heel looking at the crowd once more.

"Dong Zhao, I require your counsel."

Cao turned away, his cape flapping regally in the air behind him and he made his way back into the palace.

Dong Zhao beamed at being called out personally being called on by his lord. He looked back to the other tacticians and could see a few of them burning with jealousy.

"It seems lord Cao values my council," Zhao said loud enough for everyone them to hear.

Zhao's eyes locked with Jia through the crowd and he gave the man a smug grin. Unlike the other tacticians however, Jia did not return his grin with scorn. He merely offered a smile of his own. Zhao's grin dropped; irritated that Jia seemed so unconcerned that he was singled out by Cao. He broke eye contact first, grumbling to himself as he headed to the palace to speak with Cao.

The ministers and generals took this as their cue to leave. Slowly they began disperse, a few of them huddled together as they left, whispering about the events that just took place.

"Seems there was more going on behind the scenes that we thought," Jin said softly as he watched them leave.

He could hear the bitter words of a few of the ministers. They were condemning the traitors, saying death was too good for the likes of them. They were comrades only a few moments ago, yet they dismissed them so easily. He didn't think he could do that if it were Dian, Dun, Yuan or Zhuyue. He considered them to be close allies…perhaps even family. Was there no such camaraderie amongst the ministers?

"But man, Wénruò I gotta say, I didn't see that one coming," said Dian.

"Oh? And why does his involvement surprise you?" Jia asked with a mischievous smile.

"It doesn't make sense. Why would he want to kill the emperor when he is one of the biggest Han fanatics out there?"

"Ho ho ho, there is a brain under that mess of hair," Jia said with a chuckle as he lightly rapped against Dian's head with his knuckle. The man swatted at Jia's hand but he had already moved it away.

Jia lowered his voice as he spoke his next words. "I'm sure you have heard him say it before, but lord Cao is serious about doing anything to fulfill his ambition. In the face of that, what is one little white lie?"

"Then...Wénruò is innocent?" Dian asked puzzled.

"Not at all. He is as guilty as can be, just the nature of the crime isn't as it seems."

"Wénruò isn't here. Does that mean he left with Liu Bei's sworn brothers?" Yuan asked.

Jia turned his attention to him. He already knew where this train of thought was going.

"I am afraid so."

"So that fucking prick just sat by when they took Xiahouji and beat up Xiaolian?"

It wasn't a question. It was a statement. Zhuyue put a hand on Yuan's shoulder to comfort him. He sucked in a few deep breaths, calming himself down. He finally nodded to her, letting her know that he wasn't going to fly off the handle.

"As I said," Jia began a hint of sadness in his tone and a wistful smile on his lips. "He is as guilty as can be…"

"Thought you said you knew nothing about this," Dun said as he narrowed his eyes at Jia.

"I didn't know what this meeting was about. I did know of Wénruò's betrayal. Wénhé and I brought our suspicions to lord Cao's attention and he commanded us to remain silent. Seems he and Zǐhuán decided to make a father-son bonding moment out of rooting out the rest of the traitors because I was left completely in the dark."

"Does this mean he no longer trusts us?" Zhuyue asked with a frown.

Jia shrugged his shoulders. "I'm not sure what our lord thinks anymore. Only time will tell what is truly going on in his mind."

=#=

Dong Zhao entered Cao's office and noticed immediately that something was off. Cao sat at his desk with his hands templed in front of him and there were guards on either side of the door.

"You look concerned. Is something wrong?" Cao asked smoothly.

"No, just surprised by the guards," Zhao replied.

"Ignore them, Gōngrén, we are just having a friendly chat."

"Of course," Zhao replied nervously.

"What do you think of Wénruò' and Liu Bei's betrayal?"

"Shocking, but I knew we couldn't trust Wénruò'."

"Is that so? You seemed to have no problems trusting Liu Be though."

Zhao blanched at Cao's word. He immediately dropped to his knees in prostration.

"My lord, you must believe me, I had no idea of Liu Bei's plans. When I advised you to send him against Yuan Shu, I had no idea this would happen. Please, believe me!"

Cao sucked his teeth in disgust. "I believe you. You would have fled like a coward rather than walking so brazenly into my office. I called you here to tell your services are best suited elsewhere. You will go to Jing Province and serve under Wenze."

"Yes my lord, thank you my lord!"

"Get up you fool. When Wénbó returns from the mission I gave him, you will travel back to Jing with him. Understood?"

"Understood," Zhao repeated and he got to his feet.

"Good, now get out of my sight."

Zhao did not need to be told twice. He hurried out of Cao's office as if a demon was nipping at his heels. Cao gave an irritated grunt. He hoped Zhu Ling would bring him some good news. He was past his limit of stupidity for the year.

=#=

-The next morning-

Cao Cao walked down the hall leading to Emperor Xian's throne room at a measured pace. His boots echoed off the polished marble loudly with each step. The eunuchs bowed as he passed, knowing that he was the real power behind the throne.

Cao wasn't the least bit surprised when he received the summons from Emperor Xian the morning after his announcement. He was well prepared and even looking forward to his meeting with the puppet emperor.

Xian could hear the sound of boots outside of his throne door. Each step shook him to the very core. It was time. He was coming. Xian swallowed hard and tried to muster up the regal presence he was suppose to have. He was the emperor for heavens sake! Cao should fear him, not the other way around. He let his hand touch the hilt of the sword that rested against his throne. Feeling the cool metal beneath his fingertips did little to give him confidence. He wasn't trained in the ways of the sword and barely knew more than how to hold it. Still, he had it here to send a message to Cao. He was not a man to be taken lightly.

Xian lowered his head, breathing hard as he listened to the agonizingly slow footsteps that came closer and closer. His hands balled into fist, angered by his weakness. He will not let Cao intimidate him. He will not! The door cracked opened and against his will, his body jumped in reply. He could see Cao's eye through the crack and it seemed as if he was laughing at him. He averted his eyes, furious. Cao was laughing at him! The emperor! The gall of this man! Fear was slowly swallowed up by fury. He would not let Cao intimidate him!

The door fully opened and Cao walked in, still at that infuriatingly slow pace. The footsteps finally came to a stop. Xian looked through the string of pearls that adorned his crown to Cao and saw that he knelt on the red carpet that stretched from the foot of his throne to the doorway. With irritation, Xian realized that Cao chose to walk alongside the carpet rather on it so he could hear every single footstep he took.

Cao remained still with his head bowed as expected of a vassal. Xian averted his eyes once more. Cao's head was down at the moment, but Xian still feared the prospect of locking eyes with this man.

"I heard of the plot by Dong Cheng and the others."

"I am not surprised. Your wisdom knows no bounds," Cao said.

The words were those of flattery, but the way Cao said them made them sound as if he was mocking him.

"I know you wish for the death of the traitors and I…I do not begrudge you of this, but I do not think the family need to suffer. I am referring to Lady Dong in particular. She is my concubine and currently carries my child. I want her released safely to me," Xian said, forcing himself to sound as authoritative as he could.

"No," Cao replied simply. That simple word took the wind out of Xian's sails. He could not believe he was denied so easily. No one denied the emperor!

"You dare try to deny me this?" Xian asked, trying to sound as outraged as possible.

"She is a traitor and she carries the spawn of a traitor within her," Cao replied.

Xian's eyes widened. He knew! He knew that he was the one behind Dong Cheng's assassination plot. Cao Cao knew everything!

"Cao Cao…you mean to kill me?" His voice came out so much weaker than he intended. There was no power behind it. No authority. He mentally cursed himself for his weakness.

"I would never presume to do so, your highness."

Xian stood slowly from his seat and took his sword in hand, one hand gripping the hilt and the other holding the sheath that still covered the blade.

"I tried to have you killed. I would have no right to complain."

Cao let out a mirthless laugh and looked up boldly up to the emperor, locking eyes with the timid man. Not only did Cao break the taboo of gazing upon the emperor fully, he locked eyes with him. The gall of this man knew no bounds.

"You are a wise man, your highness. It is well within my rights to kill you for what you have done to me. Emperor or no, you called for my death when I have truly done no wrong to you. However,"

Cao clapped both hands onto his thighs and spun around on his knees so that his back was now facing Xian.

"If it is your wish to kill me, I will not stop you. I only ask that you do so with your own hand rather than hide behind the blades of others."

Cao closed his eyes and spread his arms apart, showing that he had no weapons in his hands and had no intention on lifting a finger to defend himself. His open back made for quite the juicy target.

Xian quickly unsheathed the sword tossing the sheathe to the ground and holding the sword with both hands as he had been taught to so many years ago; the curtain of pearls on his crown swinging wildly from the sudden action. Even if he didn't truly know how to properly wield a blade, he knew that even he could kill Cao Cao while he was as defenseless as this. Just one hard thrust into Cao's back and it would be done. All of Xian's problems would end with the drop of Cao's blood. Just one thrust and he would be free.

"You…you do not fear death?"

"I do not fear you," Cao corrected.

Xian felt his grip falter at his words but he quickly readjusted his hold on his blade.

"You…frighten me. You shed no tears for your allies; you side with the enemy if necessary and when someone is not needed, you get rid of them. Even…if it is me."

Xian lifted his blade over his head. Just one strike and it would be done. His mind knew that. His heart knew that, but his body would not move. It would not obey his plea to strike the monster that knelt before him down. Why? Why couldn't he do it? A fear he had never known had a suffocating hold on him, freezing him in his tracks.

Cao chuckled once more. Just as he thought, the emperor did not have the will to do what was needed. Cao took this as further validation that his way was true. The people needed someone with the resolve to do what was needed. Not someone who balked when the time came. The people need him.

Cao lowered his arms and got to his feet. "A country needs its people…"

He turned around and faced Xian. The significance of this gesture was not lost on either man. Cao was letting Xian know exactly where they stood with each other. Cao would no longer pretend to be below him. He would look this man in the eye as an equal. No. Not equals. The emperor could never be equal to him. Xian knew this now. This man, in his terrible greatness was more of a man than he ever will be.

"And without a ruler, the people are lost," Cao continued. Cao schooled his face to remain impassive though he noted with a hint of amusement at how the blade in Xian's hands quivered.

"Your highness is needed. At least…while I am alive, that is."

Xian swallowed hard. So if anything were to happen to Cao, his life was forfeit. Is that what he was saying?

"Your presence…allows me to move freely," Cao said, amusement creeping ever so slightly into his tone.

That was it. Cao let him know clearly that he was using him. There was no longer any guise behind it. Xian was a puppet and Cao was the puppet master pulling his strings and making him dance to his tune.

Cao could see realization dawning into Xian's eyes. He was confident that he got his message across. He turned and began his trek back towards the throne room doors, making sure to walk on the plush red carpet to silence his footsteps. He had sufficently intimidated Xian, there was no longer any need to employ those tactics further.

Cao hadn't bothered to salute Xian when he left. When they were alone, Cao would never salute him again. He wasn't a man that deserved to be saluted. He would only put up that guise in front of others. As Cao walked away, he decided to leave Xian with a few parting words. Something to drive his point home, in case he still resisted the strength of Cao's resolve.

"To walk upon my ordained path…To build a new and better land…I will use anyone and use any means."

Xian gulped, the sword dropping from his hands, though he still held his stance.

Cao final words echoed over and over in his mind. 'I will use anyone and any means.'

Xian suddenly felt the strength leave his body, the grip of Cao's intimidating aura of finally releasing him from its hold the minute the man stepped through the door. Xian collapsed against his throne, breathing hard. That man; he is truly a monster.

=#=

-Two weeks later-

Liu Bei was having council with his generals. Things had been tense since Liu Bei confirmed his decision to let Zhang Fei have Xiahouji. Xun Yu had seemed to distance himself from the rest of the group and only spoke to them at war councils such as these. Fei had advised his brother to get rid of him before he betrayed him, but Liu Bei would hear nothing of it. He believed that Xun Yu's anger was only temporary and he would get over in time after seeing how happy Fei had made Xiahouji.

In regards to Xiahouji, while Fei was pleased with his sworn brother's decision, he wasn't too pleased with the stipulations came with it. Bei told his brother that he was not to touch Xiahouji until they were married. The girl was still terrified of him so Bei thought it best to leave her in Zhao Yun's care until she got more familiar with the group. The way things were currently going, it did not seem like that would be happening any time soon. She kept to herself and rarely uttered a word to anyone except Yun. This made Fei angry. He swore the man had designs on her and would watch them like a hawk as often as he could.

"The messenger we caught…has he spoken?" Bei asked.

"Yes," Guan Yu replied. "The message was intended for Zhu Ling. It seems Cao Cao intended on having him attack us once we had taken care of Yuan Shu."

"So they are on to us already," Bei said with a frown. He hoped the others in the rebellion were safe, but he knew the odds of that were slim.

"So, do we attack Zhu Ling before he has a chance to attack us?" Bei asked as he looked at the men that made up his council.

"I do not believe there is any need to do that," Xun Yu replied. "The message did not reach him. As far as he knows, we have been sent to assist him in subduing Yuan Shu. We should keep up that guise as long as we can."

"Don't listen to him brother, he is leading you into a trap because he is angry at your decision to let me keep Xiahouji," said Fei.

"While I am disappointed with lord Xuándé for letting a fiend like you get rewarded for such a heinous act, I know what is at stake. I know how to put my personal feelings aside for the greater good."

"You trying to say I don't?" Fei asked accusingly as he took a few steps towards Xun Yu.

"Enough!" Bei shouted.

This was a common scene in their war councils lately. Fei and Xun Yu were always at each others throats. It wouldn't be long before they would trade blows. He did not need this discontent in his court, but he had no clue on how to resolve this issue.

"Wénruò, please continue with what you were saying," Bei said once they had settled down.

"We act as we should. We assist Zhu Ling in taking down Yuan Shu. He will potentially be a thorn in our side so getting rid of him sooner rather than later is a good idea. Once the battle is done, we can give him a message from Cao Cao telling him to return back to Xuchang for the report. Since he does not yet know of my defection, he will trust my word."

"We have no such message from Cao Cao," said Guan Yu.

"I have worked long enough with Cao Cao to know his mannerisms. I can forge a convincing order."

Bei took a deep breath and let it out. "This will be risky, but we have no choice. I would rather not have to fight anyone before we reach Yuan Shao."

"Brother, this is a mistake," Fei argued.

"We have no choice. Our army is small and our provisions are even smaller. Cao Cao made certain to only give us enough to reach Zhu Ling," said Guan Yu.

"Which is why this plan is best," Xun Yu said in agreement. "We get the supplies we need and we avoid a fight if everything works out well."

"That is only if things work out well. Let us hope the heavens continue to favor us," said Bei.

=#=

-Two weeks later-

Things were going well for Liu Bei and his people. Xun Yu acted as if he was with Liu Bei on Cao Cao's behalf and since Zhu Ling had no reason to doubt their word, the plan went off without a hitch. To further validate Liu Bei in Ling's eyes, when Shu tried to flee from his castle, Xun Yu volunteered Liu Bei's group for the task of routing them, leaving Ling to save his resources.

Bei and his people easily routed Shu's forces, nearly killing Shu in the process. Unfortunately, the snake slipped away before they could reach him and deal the final blow. He was now holed up in his castle with less than one third of the forces he started out with. Ling was pleased with the progress they were making and Yu suggested that Ling report their success to Cao Cao personally. Ling was hesitant to do so at first, but Yu managed to convince him that Cao would want to know this news as soon as possible. He swore that he would keep Bei's forces stationed outside of Shu's castle to prevent him from fleeing.

Now, they waited. Ling was set to begin his journey back to Xuchang in the morning and once he was far enough away, Liu Bei and the others would flee to Yuan Shao and ask for refuge. At Xun Yu's suggestion, Bei had a few of his men posted on all possible roads to deal with any possible messengers that Cao might have sent. They were so close to their goal, he didn't want to become complacent and lose everything at the very end.

"Things are going well. Our faith in your plan was not misplaced," Bei said, a warm smile on his face.

"I thank you for your praise, but please save it until Zhu Ling is gone and we are safely on our way to Yuan Shao."

"Of course, it isn't good to celebrate a success before the end. Have there been any word from our patrols?" Bei asked.

"There haven't been any sightings of messengers. It is likely he believes the one he sent was successful in his mission," Guan Yu replied.

"Excellent. Then all that is left for us to do is to wait."

"My lord, if we are done, I would like to take my leave. Xiahouji has not eaten yet," said Zhao Yun.

"Tch, getting pretty friendly, aren't you?" Fei said with a growl.

"She is under my care so I will ensure that she is properly taken care of," Yun responded calmly.

Since Yun had been tasked with watching over Xiahouji, Fei had begun to show hostility towards him. Yun was well aware of the glares Fei threw his way whenever he was near Xiahouji, but he did not care. Though he did not voice his opinion, he was disgusted with Fei's actions regarding Xiahouji. While he was still the sworn brother of his lord, he no longer held the respect for the man that he once did.

"Brother, do you not wish for your future wife to be well taken care of? Do not begrudge Zǐlóng for doing what I commanded."

"I don't like how close he is getting to her, brother. I also don't understand why I can't just have her. She is my wife-"

"She is not your wife yet," Yun interjected. He could no longer hold his tongue around Fei.

Fei's head snapped towards Yun, a wild look in his eye. "What did you say to me?"

"Brother-"

"I said she is not your wife yet," Yun replied, cutting Bei off this time. He finally turned his attention to Fei, his face set in a stern grimace. "Until she has the misfortune of being so, I will protect her as I was commanded to."

Xun Yu had to hold himself back from letting out a triumphant cheer. He was happy that someone else had finally spoken up against that perverted ox. Yu and Bei were so passive around Fei that it was sickening.

Fei's face became beet red; he shook in fury, reminiscent of a volcano that was about to blow its top. Fei grabbed his Double-bladed viper spear and pointed it at Yun.

"Outside, now."

"Enough!" Bei said as he sprang out of his seat to jump between the two. "Brother, have you forgotten he is our ally?" Fei did not budge. He was still glaring at Zhao Yun with pure hate in his eyes.

"Zǐlóng, your words were unnecessary," Bei said as he looked to the man in question.

"They were unnecessary, but he said them anyway, let him pay for his mouth in blood," said Fei.

Bei crinkled his nose as the smell of wine wafted from Fei's breath into his nose. "Brother…you have been drinking again?"

Fei's anger faltered slightly, guilt slowly creeping in its place.

"Our battle is over...I drank in celebration," Fei mumbled out in way of an excuse.

"And we just finished saying that we should not celebrate before our journey is truly done," Xun Yu said. He couldn't help but get his dig in. He truly found Fei to be a disagreeable person that brought out the worse in him.

Fei's lip twisted up into a sneer as he glared at Xun Yu. The feeling was definitely mutual.

"ENOUGH!"

The room fell silent. It was rare for Bei to raise his voice so when he did, they took note.

"I gave the girl to Yìdé, that was my decision and I do not want it questioned. Brother, I will not tolerate you bickering with our allies over her. No one is trying to take her from you so please, lower your weapon."

Fei grunted and lowered his blade as Bei requested.

"No more of this, brother and no more drinking until we are safely behind Yuan Shao's borders."

Fei grunted his acknowledgment.

Yun, tend to Xiahouji, but please, refrain from saying such things again."

Yun saluted Bei and left the tent.

"That goes for you as well, Wénruò. I am tired of the two of you butting heads. It ends today."

"Of course," Yu said. He gave Bei a salute and took his leave.

"Brother, take this time to go back to your tent and sober up. I don't want to hear of any more fights involving you."

Fei sucked his teeth loudly and stalked out of the war tent.

Bei could feel eyes on him. He turned to see Guan Yu eyeing him.

"What is it?" Bei asked, his voice wary.

"Perhaps giving him his way was not the best decision," Yu said carefully.

Bei frowned. "Whether it was the best decision or not, it was the decision I made. Please do not fight me on this."

Guan Yu gave a short nod before leaving the tent as well.

Bei let out a sigh feeling drained after playing mediator.

=#=

"Lady Xiahouji, it's me. May I enter?"

Yun's request was met with silence. He wasn't surprised. Xiahouji rarely spoke.

"Lady Xiahouji, I am coming in."

Again, his words were met with silence, but he entered her tent anyway. Zhao Yun found her sitting in the corner of the tent with her knees drawn up to her chest and her head buried between them.

"Lady Xiahouji, I brought some food for you. It's not much, but you should eat. You haven't eaten all day, right?" he urged gently. He always seemed to adopt a softer tone when speaking to Xiahouji, mostly because the girl was so skittish and he was afraid of scaring her.

"I don't want it," she replied without looking up.

"Come now, you must be hungry."

She was hungry. In fact, moments before he entered the tent, her stomach let out a grumble so loud that it surprised even her.

"I don't want it," she said defiantly. While Bei and his generals had their meeting, Xiahouji had made her mind up about something and she was resolved to see it through.

"My lady, please, you need this to keep your energy up. We still have quite the journey ahead of us."

Xiahouji shook her head and mumbled something so softly that even straining, Yun could not make out what she said.

"I couldn't hear you, what did you say?"

"I said I want to die!" Xiahouji said louder. She finally lifted her head, tears streaming from her eyes down to her cheek.

Yun frowned. A gentle spirit such as this should not cry. Her days should be filled with nothing but joy. This is what Zhang Fei has reduced her to. Fei would make her happy? She would grow to love him? Yun couldn't see that. He couldn't see whatever Bei saw that let Fei keep her for his own twisted pleasure. She was a delicate flower and he ripped her from her home suddenly and harshly. She could no longer bloom under conditions such as these. No, a flower with no sun, no peace and no happiness, Xiahouji's fate was to wilt. Yun could see this and it hurt that he did nothing but stand by and watch.

Could he truly call himself a man of honor? There was someone who needed to be defended right in front of him. She reached her hand out to him and he not did take it. Why? Because he was ordered not to. Yun turned his face from Xiahouji. Her tears were like a spear in through his heart. He couldn't stand seeing them because it showed the fault in his own character. A fault that disgusted him.

"Please, lady Xiahouji…do not say such things…" his attempt at consoling her was half-hearted. He could understand her wish and were he in her position; he would choose death over being forced to lay with the foul beast that kidnapped her as well.

"What do I have to live for? To be his wife? To be his play thing? I'd rather die…" More tears flowed accompanied by pained sobs. Yun reached out to console her but quickly recoiled his hand. He had no right to comfort her.

"I'd rather die," she repeated through her sobs.

Yun balled his fist. Each tear that streaked down her cheek pushed the spear embedded in his heart deeper and deeper; the pain becoming more and more unbearable as the seconds ticked by. Finally, he could take no more. He put down the food and placed his hands on her chin to lift her face up to him. He wiped under her eyes with the pads of his calloused thumbs. Xiahouji stopped crying. She froze and stared at him as a scared rabbit would stare into the eyes of a predator that had caught its gaze.

"Please lady Xiahouji, cry no more."

"I…hate it here…" she replied sadly.

"I know you do," Yun replied, his hands still gently holding onto the sides of her face. "You don't belong here. Please eat."

"No! I—"

"You need to eat to have strength for the journey ahead," Yun said cutting her off. He offered her a warm smile before speaking his next words. "You want to be strong enough for the trip back to Xuchang, don't you?"

She could hardly believe her ears. "W-what?"

"I will ensure that you get back home. You will not have to spend another day here, so please eat to gather your strength. I do not know the next time you will be able to eat."

"You…you are really going to take me home?" she asked, her mind unable to believe his words. They were just too good to be true. She had dreamed of hearing that exact thing since she had been trapped in this nightmare, but that all it was, a dream. To hear it said now, she could not truly believe it was happening. Perhaps the heavens hadn't forgotten her after all.

Yun nodded, his face the picture of determination. He would get Xiahouji home no matter what. Xiahouji begin to cry again, her tears this time were ones of joy instead of sorrow. She threw her arms around his neck and squeezed as hard as she could. She couldn't voice how grateful she was to him so this was all she could do to show him.

"You are not safe yet, my lady," he said as he gently unhooked her arms from around his neck. We have a trying journey ahead of us. Please eat and I will prepare for our trip."

Xiahouji nodded and took the food Yun previously offered. Yun nodded and exited the tent to prepare his plan for escape.

=#=

Xiahouji could feel someone shaking her awake from her slumber. Her eyes opened slowly to see a blurry figure kneeling beside her. She jumped back, startled.

"It's me," Yun whispered.

That's right. She had fallen asleep while waiting for Yun to return. He promised to take her away from this horrid place; away from the vile man that intended on making her his wife. She rubbed her sleep laden eyes so she could see Yun's visage clearly.

"A-are you going to take me away from here now?" she whispered. She feared hearing the answer but desperately needed to know all the same.

"Yes. I'm sorry to ask this of you, but I need you to hide in this."

Xiahouji eyed the sack Yun held up before her warily. He could sense her apprehension.

"It is the only way I could think of to sneak you out," Yun explained as he lowered the sack to the ground. "If anyone were to see me walking out with you, they may alert Yìdé. Please trust me."

Xiahouji nodded. She would put her faith in him if it means she could get home. Yun held the sack open and Xiahouji crawled in. She had to curl her body to fit in completely, but she managed.

"Try not to speak. If anyone finds out you are in there, your journey will be over before it has begun."

"Okay," she whispered. Yun sealed the bag and carefully picked her up. He headed to the exit of her tent and looked around. The coast was clear. He quickly made his way through the camp to his horse. He placed the sack at the front of his horse. Before he could climb up behind her, the sound of snapping branches caught his attention.

"Usually people put sacks at the back of their horses," Guan Yu remarked before taking a swig from the gourd he held in his hand.

"Master Yúncháng," Yun said trying to hide his surprise.

"Quite the surprise that brother's little wife ran away, hmm?"

"W-what do you mean?"

"In the middle of the night, while I was on guard. Not sure how she slipped by me, but apparently she did. No one could have helped her because I didn't see a thing," Guan Yu said nonchalantly as he plugged up his gourd and tied it to his belt.

"Master Yúncháng…thank you," Yun said, finally realizing what he was saying.

"Just make sure you are back before dawn."

Yun nodded and mounted his horse. He gave it a swift kick and the horse shot off towards Zhu Ling's camp.

Yun pulled his horse to a stop a few feet away from Ling's camp. He could see they had most of their supplies packed away for tomorrow travel, just as he predicted. He wanted to sneak in and place Xiahouji amongst the other supplies, but it was too heavily guarded. He would have to come up with an excuse. This was a gamble, but he had no other ideas on how to get her home safely. Yun dismounted and pretended to fiddle with the package.

"Xiahouji," he whispered. "Remember what I said. Stay quiet. If someone does find you, do not be afraid. Tell them who you are and they will ensure that you get home safely."

"You aren't coming with me?" she whispered back.

"No. I cannot leave my lord. I must be here for him."

"But—" Xiahouji began but she cut herself off. What was she going to say? She didn't want to see him go? She had grown use to him and wanted him to stay with her? All foolish sentiments, best kept to herself.

"You will be fine," Yun reassured her as he picked up the sack. He headed towards the guards who stopped him immediately.

"Greetings," He said. "My master wished to give you some supplies for the road. We do not have much to spare but he wanted to give you what he could."

"In the middle of the night?" One of the guards asked as he eyed him suspiciously.

"Truthfully, I was supposed to bring this much earlier. I lost track of time and only just remembered. Please forgive me, but I do not want to anger my lord by failing to give this to your master."

The guard that spoke shrugged, buying the excuse. He saw no harm in accepting provisions for their trip home. He jerked his thumb towards the other supplies and Yun dutifully took the sack over to them. He gently placed it atop the others and left, bidding farewell to the guards before mounting his horse and heading back towards his camp. Clutching the reigns of his horse tightly, he whispered a silent prayer for the heavens to watch over her.

=#=

-The next morning-

"Where is she!?" Fei roared.

Zhao Yun awoke from his brief slumber to the sound of Fei's shouting. It seems he found out that Xiahouji was missing. The only way he could have done so is if he went into her tent. That means the bastard snuck in when he wasn't supposed to. Yung got her away just in time. He pulled his spear closer to him. He knew Fei would be coming to his tent soon and he wanted to be able to prepare himself just in case.

Yun didn't have to wait long. Fei tore through his tent with his double-bladed viper spear. His eyes were wild and his chest was heaving reminding Yun of an oxen that was angry at getting its tail pulled.

"WHERE IS SHE?!" He roared.

Fei brought his weapon down onto Yun who managed to block the attack with his own spear in the nick of time. Fei however, had the advantage as he was standing and Yun was still lying down. He was slowly but surely pushing Yun's weapon back with his own.

"WHERE IS SHE?! He roared once more, spittle from his mouth flying onto Yun's face.

Yun kicked out catching Fei in the side of the knee, hard. The hit made his knee buckle giving Yun the opening he needed. He pushed up, knocking Fei's weapon back and allowing him to roll out of the way and to his feet.

"You little bastard!" Fei growled as he readied his weapon once more. "Give her back to me."

"I have no idea what you are talking about," Yun replied calmly.

"What is this? What is going on?" Bei asked as she stumbled into Yun's tent, followed by Guan Yu and Xun Yu.

"He hid her from me!" Fei said accusingly.

"Wh-what are you talking about?" Fei asked as he looked between the two men.

"I don't know," Yun replied. "He entered my tent and attacked me. I am merely defending myself."

"Brother, I thought I made myself-"

"Xiahouji is missing!" Fei cried, cutting Bei off.

"What? Is that true?" Bei asked, his brows scrunching together in confusion.

"I am sure she is in her tent like always," Yun replied carefully. He kept his face neutral, attempting to not give away the truth of what he did.

"She isn't there!" Fei replied as he swung his weapon at Yun once more. Yun easily blocked the attack, both of their weapons clashing together. They struggled against each other, neither man giving way to the other.

"And what were you doing in her tent? Lord Xuándé said you were supposed to stay away from her until she was ready."

Fei refuse to acknowledge what he had done wrong, he was righteous in his fury.

"She is my wife! I will do what I please."

With a roar, he pushed Yun back and slapped his spear to the side. He stepped forward, intent on taking advantage of the opening he had but found himself blocked Guan Yu's guandao.

"Brother! You defend him?!"

"You attack him without reason. Xiahouji obviously isn't in here and before you say he hid her somewhere from you, I was the one on guard until a few hours ago and I saw nothing. I'm sure if you ask whoever took over after me, they will tell you the same," Guan Yu replied.

"Hmm, If she truly is not in her tent then she must have somehow managed to sneak away. It's not like we had her tied up. She could have left anytime she wanted," said Xun Yu.

"NO! She wouldn't have left me!"

"She couldn't even stand being around you!" Yun retorted. He was getting fed up with Fei's antics. "I'm surprised she didn't run away sooner," he added, catching himself. In his anger, he nearly gave himself away.

Fei growled against as he tried to get past Guan Yu's guandao to get at Yun, but his brother blocked him every step of the way.

"Brother, lower your weapon," said Bei. "We will look for her."

"I would not advise that," Xun Yu interjected. "If she was smart, she would have fled towards Zhu Ling's camp. If she has met up with them and told them the truth of our plans, we are in danger. We need to get to Yuan Shao's boarders as soon as possible."

"He hasn't left yet?" Bei asked in surprise.

"No, and now that we know that Xiahouji is missing, I am worried."

"My lord!"

All men turned around to the new arrival. A guard saluted the men.

"My lord, a messenger from Zhu Ling's camp has arrived."

Bei felt his blood run cold.

"Have the men pack up the camp immediately. We need to leave. We will deal with the messenger."

The guard nodded and ran off to fulfill his lord's will.

Bei turned his attention back Fei, noticing that he still had his weapon raised and his eyes were still burning a hole into Zhao Yun.

"Yìdé, that's enough! It is obvious that she fled to Zhu Ling. We need to flee before he attacks us."

Fei didn't budge. He didn't want to believe his sworn brother's words. She left him? How could she leave him? He wanted to storm into Ling's camp and take her back, but he knew it would be a fools errand. Fei was shaking with anger, his weapon clattering loudly against Guan Yu's in response. Finally he let out a frustrated cry and lowered his blade.

"Fine! Fine…let's go deal with this messenger."

Yun and Guan Yu lowered their weapons, seeing that Fei had finally come to his senses. The two exchanged discreet knowing looks for a brief second before focusing their attention on their lord.

Bei gave a breath of relief. "Wénruò and Zǐlóng, can you two assist with getting the camp ready? My brothers and I will tend to the messenger."

"I'll tend to the messenger," Fei said in a gruff tone before stalking out of the tent.

Bei let out a tired groan and followed behind him with Xun Yu on his tail. Guan Yu moved to leave but Yun's called out to him.

"Master Yúncháng…why did you help me last night?"

Guan Yu turned to Yun and spoke in a soft tone matching Yun's own.

"Because I could see the harm she was causing my brother. Yìdé is not a perfect man, but I had never seen him like that before. That girl was brining out the worst in him."

Yun opened his mouth to protest, but Yu raised a hand to stop him. "I'm not saying she did it intentionally, but she had some type of power over him that made him into a person I did not want to call brother. I will do anything to protect my brothers…even if it means saving them from themselves."

"Like with Diaochan," Yun asked. Yu's eyes narrowed. He wondered how Yun could have found out about that.

"How—"

"When word of her death was first told, you were the only one who didn't look surprised…also, there was blood, at the bottom of your travel robe. I only saw it by chance, but I saw it and I had my suspicions."

"Hmph…and I just confirmed it for you. Well, you keep my secret and I'll keep yours, hmm?" Yu said as he stroked the length of his beard.

Yun nodded. While he did not agree with the way he handled the situation with Diaochan, he understood the effect she was having on Liu Bei. He also knew that Diaochan planned on leaving Bei for Cao and that would have broken Liu Bei. Killing her wasn't right, but sometimes, doing what is necessary isn't what is right.

"We should catch up with the others," Yun remarked and Yu nodded his head in agreement and headed out of the ruined tent with him. They emerged just in time to see the messenger greet Liu Bei and for Fei to remove his head from his shoulder with one powerful stroke.

Blood spurted up from the bloody stump that was the messenger's neck onto a bewildered Bei.

"B-brother! What have you done!?"

"I handled the problem," Fei replied before storming off.

Xun Yu quickly moved out of Fei's way and headed to Bei's side.

"He's out of control," he said as he watched the man start barking orders to the guards to pack up the camp faster.

"Were you planning on keeping him alive?" Guan Yu asked as he made his way over to the two men.

"We could have at least found out what he wanted!" Xun Yu argued.

Yun offered Bei a cloth once he was at his side. Bei took it gratefully and began to wipe off the blood that splattered on his cheek and nose. While he was able to get most of it off, streaks of red were left smeared across his skin. He looked to his armor and tried to give it the same treatment, but saw that it was a futile effort. With a sigh he crumbled up the cloth in his hand.

"Let's just get out of here. Ling will want to know what happened to his messenger sooner or later."

=#=

Ling was fixing the saddle on his horse when a guard approached him.

"My lord, report."

"What is it?" Ling asked without looking up from what he was doing.

"Liu Bei and his forces are on the move."

"What?" Ling said in surprised as he turned to face the guard who was still saluting him. "Where is he going?"

"I do not know sir, perhaps closer to Yuan Shu's castle?"

"Huh," he said as he idly scratched his horse's neck earning a pleased whinny from the beast.

"Has our messenger returned?"

"No, my lord."

"Strange. It shouldn't have taken him that long to get back. It was a simple message to say thank you and that's it. What supplies did they give us anyway?"

"I don't know, my lord."

"You mean you guys didn't check?" He asked with wide eyes.

"N-no sir," the guard replied, lowering his head in shame.

"Tch, well let's go check now."

Ling led the way to where they had their supplies stored and stared at the various bundles piled up before him.

"Guess it's one of the ones at top," he remarked as he began to pull sacks off the top of the pile to the ground.

He came across a rather heavy one and unprepared for its weight, he accidentally dropped it. A cry came from the sack and Ling jumped back in surprise. He looked at the guards and they nodded, confirming that they heard the sound as well and he had not gone mad.

Ling kicked the bag eliciting another cry. Ling waves frantically to the guards and they look at him quizzically.

"Your weapons!" he hissed.

They nodded quickly and brandished their swords.

Ling gave them one final look ensuring that they were ready. They nodded to him and he sucked in a deep breath before grabbing the bottom of the sack and turning it upside down causing its occupant to tumble out.

Startled the guards went in for the kill but Ling stopped them.

"It's just a girl you idiots!"

Xiahouji scrambled away from them in fear.

"Woah, woah, we aren't going to hurt you," Ling said.

Xiahouji's eyes shifted from Ling to the guards. Ling followed her gaze and saw the guards still had their weapons raised.

"Put those down," he said waving his hand. "In fact, just go away. I can handle this."

Once they left, Ling turned to her again. He gave her a friendly smile.

"Better right? Who are you?"

Xiahouji did not reply. She stared at him, her eyes still wide with fear.

"Uh…" he scratched his cheek, unsure of how to deal with this. "Okay, how about I tell you who I am. I am Zhu Ling, styled Wénbó. I serve lord Cao Cao. Do you know him?"

She nodded.

"Okay…good, good. Will you tell me who you are?"

At that moment, Xiahouji heard Zhao Yun's voice in her head. 'If someone does find you, do not be afraid. Tell them who you are and they will ensure that you get home safely'.

She swallowed hard and with a wavering voice, she answered. "X-Xiahouji."

"Xiahouji….Xiahouji…Xiahouji…you aren't one of the Xiahou family, are you?"

She nodded. Ling's eyes widened. "What the hell is going on here?" he mumbled to himself.

"Uh…Xiahouji…why are you here?"

The memories of everything that had happened up until that moment flooded Xiahouji's mind. Instead of telling him her tale, tears welled up in her eyes and she began to cry.

"Woah woah! Uh, what did I say? Okay, okay, it's okay. You don't have to cry, right? We'll get you home. You want to go home, right?"

Xiahouji nodded through her tears.

"Okay, okay. I promise, we'll get you home."

Ling reached for her and Xiahouji immediately recoiled.

"Woah, I'm not going to hurt you. Just want to help you get up, okay?"

Xiahouji nodded and allowed Ling to help her to her feet. He led her out of the tent and was immediately approached by two more guards.

"My lord, we are ready to move. Are we going back to Xuchang or are we going after Liu Bei and his men?"

Ling sighed. Something was definitely up with Liu Bei. There was no question about that, but should he chase him or return Xiahouji back to her home and report to Cao as commanded? He looked down to Xiahouji and saw that she had hidden behind him the moment the guards had approached him. The poor girl was terrified. He was interested in finding out what the heck led her being stuffed in a sack.

He lifted a foot and ground the tip of his boot into the grass below as he thought. He still had orders from Cao to return back to Xuchang, but he couldn't shake the feeling in his gut that something was off. The guards were looking to him for guidance. He had to make a decision.

"We were given orders to report back to Xuchang so that's what we are going to do. Besides, I promised this little lady that I would get her back home to her family and that is what I am going to do."

The guards saluted and left to prepare for the journey. Ling looked to the sky, a comforting breeze washing over his cheek. He hoped to hell that he made the correct decision.

=#=

-Several Days later-

"You seem distracted," Dun said as he tossed the scroll he had been reading on the table in front of him.

Xun You sighed. "Yes. My apologies. Things had been rather…difficult for me as of late."

"Why's that?" Dun asked as he folded his arms across his chest.

"After Wénruò 's betrayal, A few the other strategist seem to question my loyalty."

"Why? You are not your cousin."

"No. I am not. Unfortunately, they do not seem to see it that way. A few have requested that I get sent away from Xuchang so I would be less of a threat to lord Cao and the emperor."

"Tch, idiots."

"I…must admit, I am happy to hear you say that. Lately I have been wondering how many friends I still had left within this army," You said with a sigh. "Truthfully, I expected to be turned away at your door when I came for our tutoring today."

"Nice to know you think so little of me," Dun replied with a roll of his eye.

"No! I didn't mean it like that. I guess…I just begin to expect that reaction."

"Don't lump me in with those morons. Those opportunistic assholes don't care about the truth, they only see you as a way to increase their favor with Mèngdé. I bet Fèngxiào isn't saying that shit."

"He is not," You admitted. In fact, Jia has gone out of his way to speak to him in front of the other strategist. He even invited him to one of his afternoon drinking parties. You politely declined.

"There you go. Screw the rest of them."

"I suppose you are right," You replied with a weak smile.

"I am, now get your head out of the clouds and pay attention."

"Of course, but before we continue, I wanted to talk about madame Xu."

"What about her?"

"I promised that you would only have to look after her until I had a place of my own. I am ready to take her off your hands whenever you want."

"Hmm," Dun replied as he rubbed his chin. He wasn't actually sure he wanted to let her go. She was immensely helpful with Chong and Xiaolian had really taken to the older woman. Unlike his parents, she was kind and quiet and did not ask for much at all. He and his family had gotten use to having her around. It would be a bit jarring to suddenly remove her.

"There is no need. She isn't a bother and she helps out with Chong."

"I see. Are you sure?"

Dun nodded in reply.

"Understood. Thank you for taking care of her."

"Honestly, she does more for us than we do for her. I feel a bit like we take advantage of her. I tried to pay her but she refuses."

You smiled. "That is just her way. She is a very sweet woman. I'm sure she is just happy to be around people. From what she told me, when her son left, she had been in that house of hers alone. The only time she interacted with others was when the children from the town came to check on her which wasn't too often."

"My lord, my apologies," Called out a servant from behind the door.

"What is it?"

The door opened and the servant knelt down at the threshold.

"Lady Zhuyue requests your presence. She says it is urgent."

Dun frowned and stood. "What's wrong?"

"She would not tell me, my lord. She only told me to fetch you."

Dun turned his attention back to You who had been watching the exchange in silence. "We'll pick this up later, Gōngdá."

You nodded. "Of course. I hope it is nothing serious."

Dun nodded his agreement to that sentiment. "See Gōngdá out for me," Dun commanded as he headed out of the room.

"Yes, my lord. You will find lady Zhuyue in your bedroom."

Dun paused in his steps. In their bedroom? Why would she be in there? It was still fairly early in the evening. There was only one way to find out. Dun continued on his way making the familiar trek to their bedroom. He noted the rest of the house seemed suspiciously quiet. He didn't see any of the other servants nor did he hear Xiaolian or Chong.

Dun entered their room. He paused at the door, surprised at the sight before him. Zhuyue was standing before their bed wearing the travel robe he usually wore over his armor.

"Close the door."

Her voice snapped him out of his momentary shock and he did as he was told. She turned around and Dun could see that she wore the travel robe and nothing more. Her long black hair wasn't in it's usual ponytail and instead was draped over her right shoulder. He rose a brow as he took in the sight of his wife.

"What's all this?" He asked as Zhuyue began to saunter over to him.

"It's been awhile sine we've been together. I had everyone stay at the other house with madame Xu so we ca-aaaaaaaah!"

Just as she was a few feet in front of him, Zhuyue stepped on one of Chong's toys. She slipped forward, Dun catching her at the last minute. Zhuyue let out a string of curses as she held onto her foot which took a rough poke when she stepped down onto it. Angrily, she picked up the toy, a wooden horse, and hurled it across the room. Dun, who had been trying to hold in his laughter, completely lost it after she did that. He let out a loud laugh earning a glare from his wife.

Zhuyue stomped over to one of the walls and removed one of the swords they had mounted there. Dun was still laughing when Zhuyue attacked him. He dodged out of the way of the first strike as well as the second and third. His laughing only intensified, incensing Zhuyue. She kicked at him and he caught her leg. She was now hopping on one foot, trying to not loose her balance. She brought the sword around for another attack and this time Dun caught her wrist. He spun her around and pushed her against the wall and used his body to pin her down.

"So what was all that?" He asked, laughter still dancing in his eyes and his voice thick with amusement.

"I was TRYING to seduce you," Zhuyue growled out as she struggled to get out of his grasp.

"You were doing a great job until you fell," Dun teased.

Zhuyue struggled within his grip again, but Dun pressed his lips roughly against hers. It took a few moments, but her anger abated and she was kissing him back, dropping the sword to the floor beside them. Dun's hand ran along the contours of her body beneath his robe and he could hear her moan into their kiss. He picked her up and maneuvered them both to the bed.

"Fuck I missed you," he remarked after breaking the kiss long enough for him to remove his clothing.

Zhuyue helped him, practically clawing at his clothing to get it off. They could hear fabric tearing but neither cared. The clothing was just an obstacle and they wanted it gone by any means necessary. Zhuyue moved to take off his travel robe but he stopped her.

"Leave it on," he commanded before capturing her lips in another passionate kiss and thrusting into his wife. Zhuyue moaned aloud at the action and Dun reveled in its sound wanting nothing more than to hear that sweet sound again and again.

By the time they were done, they had managed to get through two passions filled bouts of lovemaking. The first wild and fierce, both unable to deny the craving they had for each other and needed to release that tension in any way possible. The second was a bit more subdued. Soft kisses and gentle touches until they were close to climax, after which, it turned as fierce and as lustful as the first time. At the end of it, both were exhausted. Zhuyue lay curled up at Dun's side, his arm wrapped proactively around her feeling utterly content to not move an inch.

Zhuyue ran a finger over the muscular plane of his chest. "We need to talk," she said softly.

"Hmm?" he replied as he internally pondered whether she would be up for a third round.

"We need to find a husband for Xiaolian."

The minute the words tumbled from Zhuyue's lips was the minute the bubble of gratification Dun found himself wrapped in after their lovemaking burst. He pushed Zhuyue off of him and sat up, a scowl on his face.

"Thanks for ruining that."

Zhuyue sat up as well.

"We can't keep avoiding this and hoping it goes away."

Dun moved to stand but Zhuyue held him back.

"I know you don't like the idea, but she is of age now," she said as she wrapped her hands around his neck.

"Did you use sex as a way to talk me into this?" Dun asked incredulously as he looked over his shoulder to his wife.

Of course she did, but she wasn't about to admit that to him.

"I don't want Mèngdé to be the one to choose who she marries. I want her to choose for herself," Zhuyue said, completely dodging his previous question.

"Don't you think I want that too?! It's just…she's still young."

Zhuyue crawled around him and sat on his lap. She wrapped her arms around him once more and leaned her forehead against his.

"I know she is. But it is better if we are the ones to let her go rather than have that choice taken from us. I want her to be as happy as I am."

Dun sighed as he wrapped his arms around her waist.

"Fucking hell. Fine! Okay? We'll talk to her about it tomorrow."

"This is hard for me too," Zhuyue said. She gave his cheek a soft kiss then did the same to his lips.

"You sure seem easier at accepting it than I do," Dun replied grumpily.

"I just know what it is like to have the choice taken away from you. I don't want that for her. I'm terrified that she might hate us for it, but I would rather this than the alternative."

Dun closed his eye but felt Zhuyue's lips on his once more. He opened his eye and looked at her.

"We'll talk to her tomorrow," he reaffirmed.

Zhuyue nodded and ran a hand through his hair.

"Your hair is getting longer," she remarked as her fingers carded through the thick black hair.

"I know…I haven't had a chance to cut it."

"Don't cut it. Let it grow."

Dun rose a brow. "Why?"

She shrugged. "I think you'll look good with long hair."

Dun let out a thoughtful hum before pulling Zhuyue closer to him. He could feel his arousal building once more.

"Ready to go for more?" Zhuyue asked with a mischievous grin upon feeling his member rub against her. Not waiting for an answer, Zhuyue adjusted herself so that she was now straddling him. She lowered herself onto him and threw her head back as she moaned at the contact while Dun laid a trail of kisses against her exposed throat.

They both pushed aside all thoughts of the dreaded talk they would have with Xiaolian. For tonight, the only thing that mattered was them.

=#=

Xiaolian looked up at her parents. They called her, but since she arrived, neither said a word, they simply stared at her.

Since the incident with Xiahouji, Xiaolian had become more withdrawn. She rarely stepped foot outside of their home and she rarely spoke to anyone. Part of the reason was because her injuries left her bed ridden for a few weeks, but the other part of it was that her heart ached at the loss of her friend. She was by no means a stupid girl. She knew what that look in Zhang Fei's eyes was, what he intended on doing with Xiahouji. She failed to protect her friend and left her to such a dismal fate. Xiaolian didn't want to interact with anyone. She wanted to close herself off to the world while she tried to cope with the sting of her loss.

Xiaolian figured her parents calling her to talk so suddenly was because they wanted her to stop closing her herself off to the world. She remembered Dun doing something similar when they had thought Zhuyue died.

Zhuyue finally sighed. "I really don't know how to start this…"

"Xiaolian, you have to get married," Dun said bluntly. Zhuyue's eyes nearly popped out of her head. A loud smack echoed the room as Zhuyue slapped her husband's arm.

"What the hell? You couldn't ease her into it?"

"What's the point of pussy-footing around?" Dun retorted. She wanted him to talk about it then fine, he was going to do it his way.

"Married?" Xiaolian asked, breaking into their bickering. This was definitely not what she was expecting. This was the farthest thing from what she was expecting.

Zhuyue took Xiaolian's hands in her own. "Xiaolian, you are of age now and…well because we serve a lord, there is a chance you may be used for a political marriage. We don't want that for you. We want you to choose who you want to be with so you can be happy."

Married? That was a concept Xiaolian had never bothered to ponder. She wanted to be a warrior, getting married didn't equate into that.

"I…must get married?"

"Yes…you will eventually have to and I would rather you have a choice in the decision," Zhuyue replied as she squeezed her hand.

"Choice?" Xiaolian asked as she tilted her head.

"Yes…first, is there anyone you might have feelings for? Anyone you wouldn't mind marrying? If there isn't, what would you like in husband? Maybe we can find someone that fits your preference for you."

Xiaolian frowned. She didn't really want to get married. She didn't care about this. She needed to get stronger. Not only to protect her family, but to get revenge on the man that kidnapped her only friend. Getting married just meant there would be another person she would care for. Another person she could potentially lose. Why would she want that burden?

"I don't know," she finally replied after a long period of silence.

"Okay…there isn't anything wrong with that," Zhuyue said gently. "You have time to think about it. I wish I could say a lot of time, but honestly it isn't. If you want a say in who you marry, it would be better to pick sooner rather than later."

Xiaolian remained quiet. She began to worry her bottom lip as she processed everything that was told to her.

"That's enough for today, right?" Dun said, putting a hand on Zhuyue's shoulder. She looked over to him and nodded.

"Just…think about what we said, okay?"

Xiaolian bowed respectfully to her parents and exited the room. Zhuyue let out an enervated sigh.

"She hates us."

"No she doesn't," Dun replied.

"She does. We are forcing this stupid decision on her and she hates us for it. I just know she does."

Dun pulled Zhuyue against him. "Stop being so dramatic. She's more mature than you think. You explained the situation to her, she'll take her time to think about it and deal with it, just like she always does."

Zhuyue frowned. She wasn't as convinced as her husband. She couldn't help but remember her own reaction to her father telling her that she had to marry. She raised a fit when he first told her and her father had beaten her nearly into unconsciousness for it. After exerting so much energy, he passed out and that was the beginning of his declining health. Zhuyue liked to think that it was the heavens finally punishing him for his wicked ways. She could only hope that Xiaolian saw that they were truly trying to give her a choice in the matter, even if it was a situation suddenly thrust on her. Time would only tell how Xiaolian truly felt about the whole thing.

=#=

-A month and a half later-

"You let him go…" Cao said. His voice a dangerously low timbre as his gaze burned holes into Ling.

"I-I followed your orders."

"You followed orders I did not give!" Cao replied, unable to contain his fury no longer. He tossed the scroll containing the false message that Xun Yu had passed off to Ling, striking the man in the chest. He remained rooted in his spot.

"THE ORDERS I SENT OUT CLEARLY SAID FOR YOU TO CAPTURE HIM."

"But I never received those order, my lord. The only orders I received were the ones from Wénruò."

Cao took in a deep breath. He needed to compose himself and think of this from a rational stand point. He closed his eyes as he steadied his breathing and his mind. Truly, Ling was not at fault. He was letting his dislike of the man color his judgment. If the finger had to be pointed at anyone, Cao should be pointing it at himself. He foolishly sent only one messenger. He banked on the assumption that Bei did not know that he had caught on to their pitiful deception. What he forgot was that Xun Yu was with Liu Bei and Xun Yu had a formidable mind. No…it wasn't accurate to say that he forgot Xun Yu was with him. It was more like Cao felt that Xun Yu couldn't be as smart as he had originally given him credit for if he decided to follow a fool like Liu Bei. Truly, the fault lay with Cao and Cao alone.

"You said he aided you in driving off Shu's forces?"

Ling nodded. "And Wénruò suggested that I head back and report to you as per the order—the uh false order."

"But you said there was something strange?" Cao pressed.

"Yes. One of his men dropped off supplies to my camp in the middle of the night. I sent a messenger to thank them for the supplies, but that messenger never returned and Bei and his people fled. We later found the body of the messenger, beheaded."

"And you didn't chase after him why?" Cao asked, the irritation slowly creeping back into his voice.

"Uh, because of the order—the uh false order that is and because of what we found."

"Do you truly intend on having me pull every bit of information out of you? Speak fool!"

"Apologies. When I went to check on what supplies they had given us, we found that there was a girl stuff in a sack. Says her name is Xiahouji of the Xiahou family."

Cao's eyes widened. "Truly? Xiahouji? You have her with you?"

"I do. She's waiting out in the hall, my lord."

So this idiot managed to do something right, even though it seemed she fell into his lap by pure chance rather than him rescuing her as Cao intended.

"Your task is done. Take a few days rest and return with your troops to Wenze in Jing Province. Gōngrén will be traveling with you."

"Understood," "Ling replied as he saluted Cao and left the room. Once he was on the opposite side of the door, he let out a breath of relief. He looked to Xiahouji and gave her a smile.

"This is where we part ways. Lord Cao will see you get back to your family."

He gave her an affectionate pat on the head. "You don't know it, but I'm pretty sure you saved my life. Guess it's only fair since I sorta saved yours huh?"

Xiahouji only gave him a quizzical look. She had no idea what he was talking about.

"Ha. Don't mind me. Be safe little lady."

With that, Ling headed off, Xiahouji watched him as he went, not noticing that Cao had exited his office and was standing behind her.

"Xiahouji," he said in a gentle tone, even so, she jumped at the sound of his voice.

"It is good to see you. You were missed," Cao said, use to her skittish nature.

Xiahouji nodded nervously. She always felt so intimidated around Cao.

"I-I missed being home."

Cao nodded. "Did they hurt you?"

She shook her head. "Zǐlóng took c-care of me and when he had to leave me, Wénbó took care of me."

She was doing everything in her power to not shake like a leaf in front of this intimidating man. She was happy she managed to get through that sentence with only a slight stutter.

Cao rubbed his chin. He knew Wénbó to be Zhu Ling, but he had to search his memory for person that belonged to the name style name Zǐlóng."

"Zǐlóng…who is that?" Cao asked after his memory failed to conjure up the answer.

"Z-Zhao Yun," Xiahouji replied.

So Zhao Yun was the warrior who brought her over in a sack to Zhu Ling. Why would he do that after they kidnapped her? Perhaps he saw that what he did was wrong and he attempted to right it? At least one person in Bei's motley crew had a shred of honor within them.

"I see. Well. I'm sure Miàocái and the others would like to see you, but why don't we find Bianshi and get you cleaned up first, hmm?"

Xiahouji nodded again. She truly just wanted to go home but she too afraid to say no to Cao.

Cao nodded and led her through the palace halls to find Bianshi. After leaving her with Bianshi, he summoned a servant to fetch Yuan.

=#=

"You called me?" Yuan said upon entering Cao's office.

"So quick to the point. There was a time in which we would greet each other more warmly."

"I'm not in the mood, Mèngdé."

"Such disdain in your voice. Do you truly hate me so much?"

"Mèngdé, did you truly call me in here just to mess with me?"

"I called you in here to see how you were doing, cousin."

"How do you think I'm doing?" Yuan retorted angrily.

"From the tone in your voice, I would say this is not one of your better days."

Yuan let out an annoyed sigh. He could not believe that Cao had called him for something so mundane. Truly he had to know the contempt he felt for him after he forbade him from going after Xiahouji.

"If there is nothing else?" Yuan said. He needed to get out of that office before he lost his cool and said something he would regret.

"There is something else. I wish to give you something…a gift to lift your spirits."

"I don't want anything from you," Yuan spat angrily.

"Oh I think you will like this one," Cao said as he signaled for his servant to retrieve Xiahouji.

"I doubt it," Yuan replied.

"How about a wager then?" Cao said with a smile so smug that Yuan could barely resist the urge to jump across his desk and wipe it off of his face.

"A wager? Your shitting me, right?"

"You should know my humor by now, cousin. I do not make wagers in jest. If you truly do not like the gift, then I will free you from my service. You will be free to go wherever you want and do whatever you want."

Yuan rubbed his chin. He knew exactly what Cao was offering him, the chance to go after Xiahouji on his own. It was most likely a fools errand, but it was better than sitting on his hands and doing nothing but waiting. Even better, Yuan could join one of Cao's enemies out of spite. He could get revenge on him for his inaction. Cao knew that both of these were a very real possibilities, so why offer it to him? Something was up.

"And if I do like this gift of yours?"

"You will give me lessons in archery," Cao replied.

"Archery…" He had to be joking. Cao asked for such a simple thing in return? There was no way Cao would consider this to be a good deal unless the odds were heavily in his favor that Yuan would in fact like the gift and if that was the case, why not ask for something more? Was this his way of trying to make amends? Leave it to Cao to do some ridiculous round about way to say sorry. Why wouldn't he just say it like a normal person?

"I could use some improvement in that field," Cao explained, sensing Yuan's skepticism. "Why not learn from the best?"

"You must be really confident about this gift of yours to make a wager like that," Yuan said deciding to voice some of his thoughts.

"I am," Cao replied, his voice oozing with a confidence that Yuan once admired, but now it grated on his nerves.

Yuan was determined to hate whatever gift he gave him just out of spite. No matter what it was, he would show that he absolutely despised it. He wanted to knock this cocky prick down a peg.

"Fine, you're on. What do I have to lose?"

"A few hours of your time a week," Cao replied smoothly. "Ah, and here is your gift," Cao said noticing that the servant had returned.

Yuan turned around and his eyes widened as he laid eyes on Xiahouji.

"X-Xiahouji…" he said. He could hardly believe the girl was staring back at him. Her face split into a wide smile upon seeing her favorite uncle.

"Uncle Miàocái!" She exclaimed loudly as she ran to him and wrapped her thin arms around his wide frame as best she could.

Yuan was afraid to move. He was afraid that if he did, she would disappear. Cao had stood from his seat behind his desk and walked over to Yuan, that smug grin of his only getting wider. He put a hand on his shoulder.

"I take it you like this gift?"

"This…this is real?"

"I missed you so much," Xiahouji said with fresh tears spilling down her cheek and for the first time in a long while, her tears were those of joy.

Yuan hesitantly placed a hand gently upon her head, feeling the silky tresses beneath his fingers and the solid frame of her skull beneath that. She didn't disappear at his touch. She was real. This was real. Yuan seemed to sprang to life as he lifted the girl in his arms and gave her a tight hug.

"XIAHOUJI!" He exclaimed as he hugged the girl.

"U-uncle Miàocái, I-I can't b-breathe."

"Oh! Sorry!" He said with a loud laugh as he loosened his grip, but refused to let her out of his arms.

"You have no idea how worried I was about you. I didn't think…I didn't think…" he couldn't finish his sentence. He was afraid to. He didn't want to jinx that his worst thoughts may come true.

Finally he put the girl down. She wiped her tears with the back of her hand only for them to be replaced with fresh ones. Being here, in front of Yuan was like a dream to her, one that she did not think would ever come true. She owed so much to Zhao Yun and she would never be able to properly give him thanks. She felt a pang of sadness at the thought. She hoped that he didn't get in trouble for helping her. He was truly a kind man and she wished he didn't serve someone like Liu Bei.

Yuan pushed Xiahouji back to arms length and he looked her over frantically.

"Did they hurt you? Did they—"he swallowed hard before he continued, bracing himself for the answer that was to follow. "Did they touch you?"

She shook her head. "Zǐlóng protected me."

Yuan let out a breath of relief. She was still pure. Thank the heavens for that.

"Zǐlóng?"

"Zhao Yun," Cao offered helpfully. "An exceptional general under Liu Bei."

'So Liu Bei and his people kidnapped her and beat the crap out of Xiaolian only to give her back? What was the sense of that?' Yuan shook his head at the thought. He didn't care. He didn't care about any of that right now. He was just overjoyed that she was back.

"So, when should we start our lessons?"

Yuan looked up to Cao. He still wore that smug smile, but it didn't bother Yuan at all. 'Mèngdé you bastard,' he thought. 'Of course you would go and show me the one thing I would never reject.'

"I'll teach you how to shoot with the best of them. Just give me a few days with her…we have a lot to talk about."

Cao nodded. He figured that would be the case. "Well then, you best get to it," he said, dismissing them.

Yuan took the hint. He told Xiahouji to wait for him out of the room and she left. He turned to Cao.

"Mèngdé….I…I don't even know the words."

"They aren't necessary. Go. Spend time with your daughter."

Yuan nodded and to Cao's surprise, he wrapped him in a tight bear hug. He let Cao go before he could protest and hurried out of the room the join Xiahouji. Cao rolled his eyes at the gesture and straightened his robe that Yuan's surprise attack had ruffled. Of course, Cao was well aware that Xiahouji falling into their lap was sheer luck, but Yuan and the others did not know that. He would use the tools he was given to achieve his goals and that's what this opportunity was, a tool. Yuan and Dun's compliance benefited him much more than their spite.

With that bit of business done, Cao could now focus on other things. Liu Bei and Xun Yu had slipped out of his fingers and were most likely on the way to Yuan Shao. If the two of them joined together, it would be problematic for him. It seems like there was no longer any time to wait. He had to go to war. Before that though, he had a few traitors to execute. He had hoped to wait until Bei and Yu joined them, but that no longer seemed to be feasible. The blood he would spill tomorrow will be the first drop on the bloody road he intended to carve through Yuan Shao's forces.