Disclaimer: I do not own Dynasty Warriors or any of the characters. It and they belong to Koei. I own my OCs.
My eyes flutter lightly as I move my arms slowly. I take a deep breath, savoring the sunlight that rains down upon me. I wildly look around, noticing that Lu Xun isn't next to me. I shoot up in alarm as a large, black crow soars above the tall trees, its caws echoing. I frown deeply as I see five more following the single crow. But, as soon as I see a long, brown stick and three small, gray rocks in a line below it, it strongly assures me that Lu Xun is safe. But why? I've never seen this…code.
I assure myself that he is safe, causing my pounding heart to slow.
"He's safe. He's smart. He's a formidable opponent," I mutter convincingly to myself.
Peering at the code again, I calm myself. I tell myself that if he is not back when the sun is at the top of the sky, I'll go look for him.
"Meanwhile, I'll go to that hot spring to clean myself," I tell myself. "That will make me feel better."
I grab my black pack and place it on my shoulders. Then, almost as if it's an instinct, I rearrange the code so that the three gray rocks are in a row above the long stick. Smirking in satisfaction, I jog to the tempting hot spring. I pass by more large trees with black crows perching on their thick branches. When the air gets mistier and warmer, then I'll be near the hot spring. I quickly duck as a large branch is about to slap me in the face. Almost there. I can feel the air change around me. It seems as if the trees can sense it too. They seem to stand taller and stronger than the others. The crows won't land or perch on any of the trees.
I grin happily as I see the steaming hot spring. The steam is still dancing gracefully above it. It is like normal water except that the way it shimmers makes it look like light emerald color, but I can't see all the way to the bottom. I dip my hand in the pool of shimmering water and watch the clear water trickle down my arm. Grinning, I quickly slip off my clothes, lay them and my black pack on a large boulder, and slide into the warm, steaming water. I close my eyes in relaxation as the warm water licks my feet, swallow my legs, and wrap around my body like a blanket as I slip into it. Gently tilting my head back, I let my messy hair be washed in the calm water. The tiny ripples I make become large, and I kick my legs comfortably to make a satisfying splash. The mist in the air brushes gently along my cheeks and they become moist. My eyelids become heavy as I swim over to the impressively large boulder in the center of the huge pool of water. I rest my back against it. Even though I just woke up from my sleep, I suddenly feel tired. Maybe relaxing hot springs can do that. I just wait and rest until the world around me goes silent and blank.
Splash! I groan as I lean over…..falling shamefully into the water. I rub my eyes tiredly. Where am I? Oh yeah. Hot spring. Splash! I freeze in fright. It just occurs to me that there is someone in this hot spring with me. Shit!
I hurriedly scramble to get out, but I realize it could be an enemy with a weapon. Oh shit. I squeeze my eyes shut in fear and sink lower into the water. With my black hair sticking to my neck and the side of my face, I slowly sink lower in embarrassment and shame into the water. With the sound of water moving stopping, I cautiously open my right eye to see…..oh shit…..a familiar broad back and messy, light brown hair. I curse mentally as I silently retreat backwards with my eyes closed again. I can feel my heart beating faster and faster.
However, my retreat isn't that silent because I can hear him say, "Xin Ying?"
And the cursing comes again…. I cautiously open my closed eyes. Sighing in relief, I realize the water reaches up to his stomach. Thank god that the water isn't see through. I can see part of his six pack though…. He seriously looks hot right now. His light brown hair is damp, there is water peacefully dribbling his muscular arms and chest. The warm temperature is making his face flush red a little….or is it something else? Anyway, he looks sexy. Wait? Did I just think that?
"Hi," I wave nervously with a burning face as I twirl a piece of wet hair. "I'll be going now. Do me a favor and turn around, okay?"
If possible, I sink lower and cover my chest with my arms. Then, I retreat backwards again in shame. My heart feels like it is beating a thousand times per second. But, to my surprise, he doesn't turn around. Instead, he stares at me blankly at first and moves closer. The heat at my cheeks becomes hotter.
"Lu Xun," I start to say nervously.
Please don't come closer. I'M BEGGING YOU NOT TO. DAMN IT LU XUN! CAN'T YOU READ MY MIND?! Oh wait, no you can't. Nevermind.
He stares at me hungrily. The closer he gets, the more I cower fearfully. If I move backwards again, I'm going to hit the boulders that surround the hot spring. And…My right shoulder hit a jagged part of a large boulder causing me to gasp in pain.
Lu Xun still advances and just when I think he is about to attack me or something, his hand carefully reaches toward the spot the jagged part of the boulder hit. Gritting my teeth in pain, I jerk back.
"It's okay," he whispers in a low voice.
Suddenly, the hungry glint returns to his chocolate eyes. His soft lips attack my neck, trailing down slowly causing my breath to hitch. Moaning, I pull him closer to me, and run my small hand through his damp hair. With his chest pressing against mine, I can feel his six pack. My breathing becomes shallow as he nibbles on the curve of my neck that becomes my shoulder. As warm water drips form his hair and slides down my back, his soft kisses become dangerously close to my….ahem chest area.
Abruptly, he pulls away in alarm and says, "Is that smoke?"
I immediately whirl around to spot gray, unwelcoming puffs of smoke rising like a dragon to the sky. It drifts to the direction of our camp site.
"We should go," I mutter quietly.
He nods and we both dry off and dress ourselves. We sprint through the forest of black crows. Past trees and birds we go.
"You have your matches, right?" I ask as I pull out a black arrow.
Nodding in confirmation, he leads me around more trees. Gradually, he slows down until we stop completely. Pushing a thick branch aside, Lu Xun points to the large supply base. I carefully inspect it. Five guards, six archers. This should be extremely easy. Lu Xun rummages through his small pack and hands me a match.
"I'll shoot down the archers on the archer towers inside the supply base," I explain smoothly, pointing vigorously at the tall leafless tree next to the supply base, "and shoot the flaming arrows to destroy the base."
"Sure," he nods in agreement.
I first skillfully send a volley of dangerous arrows at the guards. After hitting my poor targets, I begin my "exciting" plan.
He willingly follows me past small bushes and more trees. The waxy leaves of the trees conceal us from the oblivious enemy. But, isn't this too easy? I mean they are wide open for attack. Shouldn't one of the Shu generals stop us?
Lu Xun and I stop and the base of the tall tree. I pull myself up on a thick, rough branch. Wincing slightly when the rough bark scratches my hand, I continue to silently move upwards. Pale green leave lightly brush against the top of my head and a few small twigs find a home in my hair.
"Here we go," I whisper brightly, easily swinging myself up on the branch that extends out onto the archer tower. The green curtains of leaves still hide me from the enemy as I place a black arrow that will soon lead me to sweet victory next to my bow.
"And fire," I sing quietly to myself and I let black arrows soar like birds to the unaware archers of Shu.
Rustle. Rustle. The leaves make an irritating noise as I attempt to make my way into an archer tower. Rustle. I mentally slap myself over and over again. Before I successfully make my way into the tall archer tower, I gently pull of a few leaves and loose bark. It's wonderful how no one ever looks up at the archer tower. Stupid fools. Okay, that's probably too mean.
Down below I can see many brown, wooden crates. I doubt that they have anything good inside them.
I can also hear loud, startling laughter erupting from soldiers. I wonder what's so funny.
"That joke is so old, the last time I heard it I was riding on a dinosaur," yells a soldier in shiny green armor.
"This is the most recent time you heard it, you idiot! And the last time I heard that comeback was when I was talking to yo great grandma times a thousand!" retorts another soldier.
Okay, I admit. That is funny (my face is like ^_^ now).
I tie the green leaves and scratchy bark on my arrows and light them on fire. Immediately, I shoot them at the flammable, wooden crates. The fierce fire starts out small, but begins to grow larger. Bright, fiery flames leap around wildly, and the flames begin to lick and swallow everything. It is warm, and it is becoming hotter each second. I cough violently and back away from the smoke drifting upwards. The Shu soldiers are now shouting and yelling in panic. They rush around in confusion like tiny, black ants. I back away from the dangerous smoke. I have to get out of here before my own flames mercilessly betray and consume me. I crawl quickly to the edge of the archer tower. I can barely see and breathe due to the smoke wrapping around me like a blanket. My hands instinctively reach out and seize my branch of escape.
"Xin Ying?! Come down!" cries Lu Xun in alarm from down below. I can barely see his silhouette anxiously waving his arms.
"Too….much…smoke," I croak as loudly as I can.
My hands grasp the branch firmly and I try to carefully swing myself down, but I begin coughing violently again. This sadly distracts me and causes me to let go. I find myself falling and desperately trying to grab on another branch to stop my approaching, painful fall. However, I do not save myself. Instead, I let out a long, terrified shriek. I squeeze my eyes tightly shut, hoping it will lessen the pain that is about to come.
Fortunately, a pair of arms catches me once again. I don't know what's surprising. The fact that Lu Xun catching me again is surprising, or that I didn't break any bones.
So we are just stay like that. My arms are around the nape of his neck, and one of his arms is under my back and the other is under my leg. My heart is pounding furiously. The funny thing is that if my life was a story, this would be extremely corny. I believe we have been in this position before… Oh yeah, that day I was captured. This is ending up like a book that Da Qiao was happily reading. She had very dreamy eyes back then. Anyway, I notice that his face is getting closer to mine and mine to his. But, a loud whiny sound interrupts us.
I look past Lu Xun and see two Shu soldiers. One of them is young and the other is old. Both of them are riding horses and are armed with weapons. How wonderful. Anyway, I will continue my description. The old one wields a bow and has white hair, while the younger one wields a trident and has brown hair.
"Ahh. Master Lu Xun, I'd never thought you would flirt in the midst of battle with this," starts the younger one calmly while eyeing us warily, "beautiful, young lady."
My cheeks become warm which does not help the condition I am in.
Just to irritate this Shu general, I smile pleasantly and press my lip against Lu Xun's soft cheek and say sweetly, "Why I'm flattered."
Currently, I am dizzy, tired, and in need of fresh air. Again, I start coughing uncontrollably. I subconsciously grab a fistful of Lu Xun's upper garment while struggling desperately to inhale air. My lungs feel as if they are on fire.
"I challenge you to a duel!" cries the young Shu general.
"Very well Master Jiang Wei," agrees Lu Xun coldly. "But you will leave the lady alone."
"Fine," replies Jiang Wei smoothly.
Lu Xun carries me over to a nearby tree and sets me down. I slump against it as Lu Xun faces his opponent. They raise their weapons and charge fiercely and determinedly at each other. Jiang Wei raises his trident in attempt to stab Lu Xun, but Lu Xun blocks it. They crash weapons many times, but neither of them falters. Their glares are challenging and harsh. I watch curiously and in fascination as they both strike again.
The good thing is there is no longer smoke or any bright, dancing flames. There are no more cries of panicking soldiers either. I guess the fire already burned out and the soldiers retreated. Or maybe they put out the fire…..
Out of the corner of my eye, I see the old man tapping his bow impatiently. The way his fingers grasp his bow and the way his quiver of arrows are carefully placed makes me realize that he is a skilled archer. An old man that is an archer of Shu…. That would be….Huang Zhong!
Suddenly, I sit up in alarm when I realize Huang Zhong is positioning himself to attack with arrows. The way his fingers slowly move toward his quiver and the position his bow is in. I have to warn Lu Xun, but if I call him, it will distract him and Jiang Wei will win. If I don't, Huang Zhong will shoot him. I can shoot them right now….
I whip around wildly in search of my precious bow. Still inhaling deeply, I see it yards away. Glancing at Huang Zhong, I see that I don't have much time. Crawling and dragging myself to Lu Xun, rich, dark dirt smudges my arms and hands. I gasp loudly and keep crawling. I keep pushing myself forward even though I am in need of rest.
"Lu Xun," I croak hoarsely as Huang Zhong is about to shoot.
Casting Lu Xun one pitying look that he cannot see, Huang Zhong sadly pulls back the string to his bow just as I throw myself in front of Lu Xun. It happens extremely slowly, but to my relief, the arrow flies toward me and plunges into the side of my stomach. I land with a thud. Gritting my teeth in pain, I stubbornly refuse to scream. I see the world become a blur and Jiang Wei backing off. I see two of everything. I feel Lu Xun's arms carrying me bridal style. I close my eyes peacefully and lay in his arms limply.
"Why?!" demands Lu Xun angrily. His furious voice is close to my ear, and his breath is tickling it.
His arms still send warmth throughout me.
I grasp the silver heart of my necklace and whisper weakly, "Stay safe."
I hear the galloping of horses and despairing cries of people before the world around me goes black.
"Where is it you want to take me?" I ask curiously at the boy walking quietly in front of me.
"Here," says the boy, gesturing at the bright, cheerful setting sun.
I peer cautiously below us. A few loose rocks tumble into a world of darkness. We are standing on the edge of a tall cliff. The sound of the tiny pebbles echoes. I gasp in surprise and alarm.
"Xin Ying, I just want to say," begins the boy as he wraps his arms around me in a hug, "goodbye."
"Goodbye?" I repeat in confusion.
"Goodbye," confirms the boy as he harshly shoves me off the cliff.
Similar to the pebbles, my fearful shriek echoes. Looking up, I see the boy smiling sadly and regretfully. The boy whose face I cannot see.
I shoot up in fear, inhaling deeply and rapidly. I wipe my damp forehead with the back of my head shakily. The boy whose face I cannot see. I have been having dreams about him lately ever since I was in Wu. He has been taking be exploring in my dreams. We've went swimming, horseback riding, and fishing. I have this feeling I know him outside of my dreams and that I just can't remember. Maybe that's why I cannot see his face. But, what good is it if I can't recognize him? Now, this boy kills me in my dreams. I seriously don't get it. Then, I notice two people staring at me.
"Uh, hi?" I greet in bewilderment.
"Oh Xin Ying, thank god!" cries Da Qiao in relief with concern washing over her face. "We won, but you were shot and out for two days. Thank god Doctor Hua Tuo was able to help. Oh! I'm going to get Sun Ce!"
Taking a deep breath, Da Qiao scurries hastily out. I push myself off the soft bed. This is so similar to that time I fainted during my escape and woke up like this. I stand up, determinedly ignoring the slight pain from where I was shot and my slightly sore muscles.
"Hi," I greet Lu Xun-who is sitting in a chair-cheerfully.
Lu Xun sighs in frustration with his eyes shut. Immediately, his eyes shoot open and he speedily rises from his seat in less than a second. Moving closer, he roughly places his hands on my shoulders and squeezes them tightly.
"Why…in the world would you do that?!" growls Lu Xun furiously and coldly, squeezing my shoulders tighter and looking down at his feet, seemingly afraid to look at me.
"I don't want you to be hurt because of me," I explain.
"I'd rather myself be hurt instead of you," replies Lu Xun in a low voice, looking up at me with a dark look in his usually warm eyes.
"But I'm fine now!"
"Never do that again."
"Xin Ying," says a voice from the doorway.
Lu Xun and I speedily look up to see Sun Ce leaning lazily on the door frame. He quickly pulls away from me and looks shamefully down at his feet. Both our cheeks are now warm and light pink.
"You are fine now?" asks Sun Ce gravely.
I nod in confirmation solemnly.
"I have to thank you, Xin Ying," says Sun Ce, sighing with his eyes shut and his arms crossed. "Thank you for risking your life for Lu Xun and getting rid of that supply base. Do you know what that arrow was supposed to do?"
I shake my head.
"That arrow was supposed to lead an extremely slow and tortuous death if aimed at the heart. Lu Xun's death to be specific," explains Sun Ce earnestly, eyeing Lu Xun and me carefully.
"Does that mean I'm going to-" I start to question.
"No, the arrow hit the side of your stomach. Thankfully, that didn't cause anything life-threatening. Doctor Hua Tuo was able to heal you easily."
I breathe a sigh of relief. I am very glad to hear that I won't die just yet.
"Okay, so I'll just go and," begins Sun Ce easily, as he turns around and starts to leave.
I turn around too so I can examine to plump, happy birds outside my window and the gleeful sun grinning against the light blue sky.
"YOU KNOW WHAT?! SCREW THIS!" shouts Sun Ce gleefully, coming back in my room.
His loud voice surprises me and causes me to ungracefully stumble and fall. Lu Xun comes over and politely holds a hand in front of me. Gratefully, I pull on his hand to help myself up.
"We are going to party tonight! Banquet tonight!" declares Sun Ce commandingly, and he points to a soldier passing by. "You! Inform the castle that there will be a banquet tonight. Tell them exactly what I just said."
Apparently, that soldier is the same amusing soldier that brought Zhou Yu's ramble to Lu Xun and me. The one where Zhou Yu was screaming in fear like a little girl.
So, in the next room, I stifle my laughter when I hear, "Lord Sun Ce has ordered me to give you this exact message, 'YOU KNOW WHAT?! SCREW THIS! We are going to party tonight! Banquet tonight! You! Inform the castle that there will be a banquet tonight. Tell them exactly what I just s-said…..ACHOOOO!' Forgive me. That was not the message. I will repeat it to you once again. 'YOU KNOW WHAT?! SCREW THIS! We are going to party tonight-"
A loud crash rudely interrupts the humorous soldier's message. Next, there are a few more thuds and shattering of fragile vases and teacups.
After that is a hysterical, "GET THE HELL OUT OF HERE," from a high pitch, feminine voice.
I sprint to the next room with wide eyes. When I arrive, I see a grumpy Sun Shang Xiang and a teary Xiao Qiao.
"He scared it away. He scared it away!" sobs Xiao Qiao unhappily while carefully dabbing her eyes with a small, pink handkerchief.
"Uh, what happened?" I mumble questioningly to Sun Shang Xiang.
"I distracted Xiao Qiao from doing something that might be dangerous. You know how she loves animals, right? So there was a plump, adorable bird that flew in and she was admiring it and talking nicely to it. Then, that idiot soldier came in and ruined everything. Now she's going to cry and weep over that bird," grumbles Sun Shang Xiang crossly and grouchily.
I glance hesitantly at Xiao Qiao who is now weeping gloomily at the loss of her new pet. Then, a great idea comes to me. I can actually imagine a light bulb at the top of my head.
"Uh Xiao Qiao?" I say cheerfully, trying to mask my uncertainty.
"Uh?" sniffs Xiao Qiao distraughtly, looking at me with her puffy, red eyes.
"Err…Sun Ce said that there is going to be a banquet tonight….and it's supposed to be fun. So, do you want to look at dresses or something? Maybe play around with hair and makeup?" I suggest tentatively.
Xiao Qiao happily claps her hands together and says, "Ohh. That will be so much fun! I'll get Sis and we can look for your dress too!"
"Sis!" shouts Xiao Qiao joyously as she runs out of the room.
"Thanks," grins Sun Shang Xiang gratefully, patting me gently on the back. "I would have needed to calm her down for the rest of the day."
"Nah, it's no problem," I reply with ease.
"EVERYONE! GET YOUR BUTTS OUT HERE IN THE HALLWAY BECAUSE THAT IDIOT SOLDIER CAN'T SEND A MESSAGE!" bellows Sun Ce.
"I guess I must follow my dear brother's order," say Sun Shang Xiang sarcastically, rolling her eyes in disgust.
I give a small grin and say, "At least that soldier won't be sending more messages."
We walk outside the door and into the long hallway where it is crowding with angry and confused people. Their questions and infuriating comments anger Sun Ce more.
"SHUT UP PEOPLE!" he yells, causing them to really shut up. "There will be a banquet tonight. So, have fun and forget about any of your stupid and stressing problems!"
Sun Ce proudly strides away leaving even more confused people and their silly questions behind. Some of them are:
"When is the banquet?"
"Do we have to go?"
"What's at the banquet?"
"Which one came first? The chicken or the egg?"
"It depends!" I yell back to the asker of the chicken or the egg question. "If two animals made the chicken, then it's the egg!"
"Thanks!" yells back the asker appreciatively.
"No problem!" I respond.
Then, I see Lu Xun striding silently past me to the library. The crowds of people begin to scatter and chatter. Whoa, that rhymes! I wonder if I ever called Lu Xun a nerd…
I catch Lu Xun by his bicep and ask innocently, "Still mad?"
He takes a deep breath with his eyes shut and replies, "Just stay safe."
He wraps his strong arms around my waist and places his chin on my shoulder. I inhale his scent. Chocolate….
"Don't worry," I say as I reluctantly and slowly pull away. I peck him lightly on the cheek and smile. "I'll see you later."
With a flirtatious wink and a wave, I retreat back to my room. I think this war between us is still on, but I don't catch him smiling softly at my back.
I am standing…back on the edge of the cliff. This time, the devious boy is not here. Instead, it is just me and black crows circling above my head. I have an ominous feeling. I shudder frightfully at the very thought of falling down the cliff again.
"Ah, you're back."
I whirl around alarmingly. Narrowing my eyes, I glare at him threateningly.
"What do you want?" I spat venomously, not too happy since he "killed" me in my last dream.
"Nothing much," sighs the boy softly. "I just want you to remember."
"Remember what?" I snap back impatiently.
"Everything happens for a reason," explains the boy subtly, "like why you are having these dreams."
"Look," I growl menacingly. "If you are going to speak in riddles, then I'm just going to jump off this cliff and wake myself up."
"What do you want to know?"
"I want to know why you "killed" me, who are you, why can't I see your face, and why are you doing this?"
"I answered already. I'm here to help you remember. The reason why you can't see my face is because you can't remember."
"Remember?! Remember?!" I scream in outrage, throwing my arms up in exasperation. "Is this the only reason?! To remember?!"
"Well, basically," answers the boy calmly, moving closer to me.
"Then, who are you?"
"Ahh. You are not ready for the answer just yet. Next time. I promise you."
His hands move to shove me off the cliff again, but I am too quick for him. Surprisingly, my years training as an Assassin also help me in my dreams now that I'm aware of my enemy. Last time was because I thought he was harmless. Not that dying in a dream is harmful….
"Ohh no. Not again," I say confidently, dodging him. "Answers. Now."
The boy only looks at me in what seems like amusement.
He chuckles and says, "You are about to wake up now. I promise, next time. Just remember, Yi."
"Xin Ying."
"Xin Yin!"
"XIN YING! WAKE UP BEFORE I POUR WATER IN YO FACE!"
"Huh, what?" I yawn, rubbing my eyes tiredly and lazily throwing a pillow at the shouter.
"Forgive Ling Tong my lady, but you kept say something about remembering and you were thrashing around in your sleep," says Lu Meng-who is kneeling beside my bed- worriedly. "We thought it would be best to wake you up."
"Damn right! Is this what I get for doing something kind?" demands Ling Tong irritably, waving the pillow wildly around. "A pillow in my face?!"
"Well, shouting in my ear and threatening to pour water in my face is that kind," I comment dryly. "Plus I didn't even throw that hard."
Ling Tong chucks the pillow back at my face, but I catch it and return the favor.
"My lady, you are fine now?" asks Lu Meng kindly.
"I'm perfectly fine," I reply smoothly, skillfully ducking when the pillow sails back at me.
"Perhaps you should walk around or take a warm bath," suggests Lu Meng sincerely. "It will help relax your muscles."
"Well, thanks," I reply, with a grateful smile. "I'll go take a bath."
Lu Meng and Ling Tong begin to leave, but Ling Tong sticks his tongue out at me like the immature person he is. With a sly grin, I throw two soft pillows across the room at his head before he leaves. Bath time!
I gather the clothes I will wear after I finish my relaxing bath. It is basically like what Da Qiao wears. Well, she helped supply my clothes. So, it's a dark, blue skirt that reaches at the spot a little above my knees, and a long sleeve, pale gray, blouse with a v-neck.
I enter the small bathroom, admiring the lavender walls. In the center of the bathroom is a freakishly huge tub. Next to it is a small, wooden table with a small pitcher of clean water.
I slip out of my clothes and finally pull off my necklace. Dangling it in front of me, I can see the "Yi" engraved on it.
"You are about to wake up now. I promise, next time. Just remember, Yi."
Is this what he means? The "Yi" on my beautiful necklace?
I quickly dismiss the thought. It must be a coincidence. I mean sometimes I can control my dreams and maybe I just happen to think of that particular word. You know what? Just shut up, Xin Ying. Just take your freaking bath.
I slowly lower myself into the soothing, warm water. I sigh contently when the clear, clean water hugs my body. I think back to that day at the hot spring. It was as relaxing as this. But, my cheeks become pink when I think about how Lu Xun intruded my relaxation. I lift an arm out of the water and watch drops of water slide down and back into the tub causing small ripples. Peering over the edge of the large tub, I see large glass jars of colorful flower petals, fragrances, and multiple small, yellow sponges and clean, white washcloths in a stack. A maid had offered to place flower petals and fragrances in the tub of water for me, but I refused. I had never used any of these things.
Curiously, I reach over and gently pluck a jar of thin, liquid fragrance and pour it in the tub. Almost immediately, the aroma of sweet jasmine fills the air. I sigh contently again. Tipping my head back, I let my hair float and dance gracefully in the water. I never had this luxury before. I reach over once again, and grab a clean washcloth. I twirl it playfully in the water, and let it become soaking wet. Then, I start gently scrubbing and rubbing away the dirt and dust on my skin.
Once I am done, I quickly dry and dress myself. What to do next? I certainly don't delight in going outside right now. Maybe I should just read. Yeah, that's what I will do.
I rush to the library, nodding in response to the greeting of maids and servants along the way. When I finally arrive and shove open the door, there is no one inside. I suppose everyone actually listened to Sun Ce after all. The sunlight gladly penetrating through the window lights the room. I skip merrily around searching for a book to read. However, none of the books are interesting to me, so I just pull a random, thick book off the shelf. Without looking at the title, I settle myself on a comfortable sofa by the window. Keeping my feet on the floor and sitting up straight, I lazily skim through the book. It has tiny writing floating on the page. Eventually, my eyelids become heavy indicating that I should just stop reading. I slam the book shut loudly and drop it on the desk next to me.
I soon hear loud footsteps and see Lu Xun come bursting through the door.
"Hey," he greets breathlessly, throwing himself on the sofa.
"Hi. Why so tired?" I ask curiously.
"Xiao Qiao's been bugging me to take her to the next battle when there is one," groans Lu Xun tiredly, leaning against. "I do not want Zhou Yu's wrath on me, so I've been hiding."
"I see," I laugh in amusement.
He freezes for a second, sniffs, and remarks, "You smell nice."
"Uhh, thanks?" I reply uncertainly.
"What are you reading?" he asks and frowns when I shrug. "How do you not know what you're reading?"
"I'm not even going to bother looking because I just want to rest," says Lu Xun dully. "Do you mind if I rest here?"
I shrug and shake my head which clearly says, "I don't really care."
"Thanks. Make sure Xiao Qiao doesn't bother me if she comes, okay?" he asks pleadingly, making me grin at him.
"Sure," I answer carelessly.
Lu Xun surprises me by resting his head on my lap with his eyes closed and his legs on the sofa. Talk about unforeseen. The fact that the blue skirt I'm wearing looks even shorter when I'm sitting down only contributes to my blushing. Half of his head is basically resting on my bare lap. Well, I guess this makes it clear that the flirt war is totally not over yet. But, a small part of me truly wonders if it's because of the flirt war or because he is just comfortable around me. Shockingly, that small part is hoping for the second reason. I wonder why... So we are just sitting there in silence with his hair tickling me and the parts of his hair that are in braids lie limply on my lap. He really does look handsome.
Suddenly, Xiao Qiao bursts into the room.
"Xin Ying, have you seen-" she starts hastily, but I interrupt her.
"Shh," I whisper with a soft smile and a finger to my soft lips. I know for sure she will leave Lu Xun alone if I do this. And I will also probably feel extremely guilty afterwards, but I already agreed to do this.
"He's sleeping," I smile fondly at Lu Xun while gently stroking his cheek with the back of my hand.
I can hear Xiao Qiao squeal in excitement and whisper apologetically, "Sorry."
I glance at Lu Xun's face, carefully noticing how his facial expression doesn't change and he seems relaxed. He DOES look like he is asleep. Huh, I guess he can fall asleep easily and quickly.
Xiao Qiao takes a seat on the chair across from the small, wooden table next to me. She gently rests her cheek on her hand and giggles, "You guys would make a cute couple."
I give her a sad smile and say something that I really think is true, "I doubt he likes me. We've been having this flirt war and I'm guessing he wants to win."
"But you like him, right?" she questions while I subconsciously run my hand through his soft hair.
This is the question I need to ask myself. Do I like him? The warmth he sends throughout me makes me wonder. Honestly, these days I feel really close to him. I know Xiao Qiao can keep a secret. She is a sincere person.
"I-I think," I start nervously and hesitantly, glancing at Lu Xun's relaxed face, "I think I do."
My answer is honest. It is not a lie to keep Xiao Qiao from bothering Lu Xun. Right now, I just want to tell Xiao Qiao and get this off my chest.
"But he doesn't like me," I say miserably and gloomily.
"I think he does," announces Xiao Qiao. "Have you seen the way he looks at you? He clearly likes you."
"I can only hope so."
"Shang Xiang, Da Qiao, and I will be helping you pick your dress, do you makeup, and do your hair later. Let's ask them for their opinions and I can bet that they will agree with me. Be there, Xin Ying."
Xiao Qiao says the last part firmly, before retreating back to her room. I guess I've been denying that I like him. Sighing, I continue to absentmindedly run my hand through his hair. A minute later, Lu Xun opens his eyes, and grins at me.
"Thanks," he says.
He easily lifts himself off my lap and for a moment I think he is going to stand up. But, he lifts himself up slightly and shockingly, presses his soft lips to mine while cupping my face with his hands. This is the first time he has kissed me on the lips. I savor every moment and pull him closer to me.
"Thanks," he whispers again softly before leaving.
What I don't know is that he was awake the entire time I was talking to Xiao Qiao.
"I think strapless would be good."
"Maybe black?"
"He definitely won't be able to stop touching her once we're done."
I am currently sitting on the bed of Sun Shang Xiang's large room with my legs crossed. Sun Shang Xiang is sitting next to me, while Da Qiao and Xiao Qiao are holding up various dresses.
"Guys, guys," I say irritably. "What makes you think he even likes me?"
"He is comfortable around you. If he wasn't, he wouldn't be insulting you," remarks Sun Shang Xiang brightly.
"He would still be insulting me if I was just a friend," I reply monotonously.
"But, we are his friends and he doesn't insult us," answers Xiao Qiao.
"That's because you all have superior status," I exclaim, throwing my arms up in frustration. "We both have equal status. Actually, now I think about it, he has a higher position because he is a strategist, a general, and he has been in Wu for a longer time."
"But, have you seen the way he looks at you?" asks Da Qiao dreamily, holding up a rosy pink dress with a white sash that reaches to my knees and has long sleeves.
Three expressions wash over my face causing Da Qiao to drop the rejected dress in the pile of other rejected dresses on the bed: distaste, disgust, and disdain.
"How does he look at me?" I ask dryly.
"Adoringly, lovingly, tenderly," lists Xiao Qiao happily. "The way he smiles at you is different from the way he smiles at everyone else."
"That color is good," says Sun Shang Xiang, pointing to a black dress that is not too light or too dark.
"Make it strapless," say Xiao Qiao.
"How did this banquet preparation turn into a 'look-good-for-Lu Xun-mission'?" I ask, truly curious.
"Ever since you told Xiao Qiao that you liked him," replies Sun Shang Xiang dryly. "We want to help you. After all, you're our friend."
"This one!" exclaims Da Qiao excitedly, holding up a tight, strapless, and black dress, with ruffles at the top, a shiny, white sash at the waist, and a narrow skirt part.
I try it on in Shang Xiang's bathroom. When I come out, I notice that the dress reaches a little below my knees.
"Perfect!" everyone agrees.
"Now for the makeup," says Da Qiao cheerfully, walking toward me with an armful of brushes and shiny jars of colorful powder. "Close your eyes."
I obey and tilt my chin up, letting Da Qiao run her soft brushes over my face. I can hear her speedily twisting open jars.
"This color is too dark," mumbles Da Qiao. "This one is good."
I feel the soft bristles of the brush tickling my face. I bite on my tongue to stop myself from laughing. Then, I feel her smear a thick liquid over my eyelids.
"Open your eyes," orders Da Qiao sternly.
I do as she says and I find everyone gawking at me.
"What?" I say, slightly puzzled.
Da Qiao hands me an elegant handheld mirror with gold swirls around it. When I glance at the mirror, I see my eyes are larger, softer. There is pink dust around my cheeks, and my eyelids are a glittery and vibrant rosy color.
"Whoah!" I exclaim in surprise.
"You look gorgeous!" exclaims Xiao Qiao eagerly jumping up and down.
"We just have to make sure she passes the Lu Xun test," Sun Shang Xiang smirks thoughtfully leaning toward me.
Da Qiao, Xiao Qiao, and Sun Shang Xiang gather sneakily in a small corner of her room. They whisper excitedly for a while, making me extremely tense. When they return, I glance at them suspiciously.
"What were you talking about?" I ask them questioningly.
"Nothing that will make you mad," replies Sun Shang Xiang innocently, but I give her a skeptical look. "Nothing that will kill anyone."
"Don't be so sure," I mutter in a low voice. "I just might kill someone if someone make me mad."
I then give her a sweet, pleasant smile.
"All right, now onto the hair," declares Da Qiao briskly. "But, how should I do it?"
"Just braid the top, Sis!" suggest Xiao Qiao energetically.
Together, they attack my hair, harshly brush through tangles, and leave my hair knot-free. In the end, I have a braided headband resting peacefully on the top of my head.
"So, are you going to confess," asks Sun Shang Xiang bluntly while holding the mirror for me as I admire my hair.
I stare at are blankly and say, "Say what?"
"Are you going to confess to Lu Xun?" repeats Sun Shang Xiang smugly with a grin.
"Hell no!" I exclaim in shock. "Why would I do that?"
"Why wouldn't you?!" squeals Xiao Qiao enthusiastically. "You can let him know how you feel!"
"And have him reject me and look at me for the rest of my life like I am a fool?!" I shout demandingly. "He'll probably say, 'I'm sorry. I don't feel the same.'."
"He won't," assures Da Qiao soothing while patting my arm. "He likes you."
"How to we even know that?!" I say in frustration. "Admit it. He doesn't like me."
"You can make sure he doesn't if you confess to him. After all, if you want to stop liking him, the solution would be to have him reject you. If he doesn't, great!" grins Sun Shang Xiang triumphantly. "And if you don't, I'll steal that necklace of yours and break it."
"You wouldn't," I snarl aggressively.
"I would," Sun Shang Xiang smirks.
"Just try. Think about all the people who have confessed and how happy they became," says Xiao Qiao cheerfully.
"I suppose," I say flatly. "I'll try, okay? I'll try."
"And we've got a surprise for you," sings Sun Shang Xiang brightly as she beckons Da and Xiao Qiao to leave the room with her.
I sigh and stay seated on her bed. What would happen if I try? Would I regret it? The thoughts keep echoing in my head. After a few minutes there is a soft knock on the door.
"Shang Xiang?" I call out. Why would she even knock on the door to her own room?
I walk to the door, enjoying how the soft fabric of my dress brushes against my bare legs. I open the door, revealing the person outside. However, it isn't Sun Shang Xiang. It's Wu's young strategist, Lu Xun.
I stare at him blankly for a few seconds and say slowly, "Uhh. Hi?"
"Hello my lady, I shall be your escort for tonight," he smirks while bowing to me.
UGHH! SHANG XIAAANGG!
I grin, playing along I say, "Why my lord! How kind of you! Shall we depart then?"
"Indeed we shall," he declares with a wink.
He politely offers his arm to me and I shyly take it with a blush.
"So," says Lu Xun slowly, almost hesitantly. "I heard from our Princess Shang Xiang that you have something to tell me."
"Uhh, no?" I say dumbly and unconvincingly.
"She said you had something urgent to tell me," he insists determinedly.
"Did she tell you what?"
"No."
"Well, I have nothing to tell you."
Suddenly, something, small and round hits my arm. I look around wildly with a glare while rubbing my arm. I see Sun Shang Xiang waving confidently at me from behind a small door.
"Confess," she mouths silently.
"No," I shake my head.
Glaring daggers at me, Sun Shang Xiang walks toward me and says, "Hi Lu Xun. Did Xin Ying tell you what she wanted to tell you?"
"No," replies Lu Xun in confusion, and he turns to me. "What are you going to tell me?"
"Nothin-" I start to say.
"She was going to tell you that she liked-" begins Sun Shang Xiang quickly, but I hastily clap a hand over her mouth.
"I get it. I'll tell him, okay?" I growl angrily. "Just don't tell him."
She smirks at me victoriously and says, "See you later guys."
"Bye Princess Sun," calls Lu Xun.
"So what are you going to tell me?" he asks questioningly.
"Uhh. T-that y-you look nice?" I stutter shamefully.
He raises and eyebrow skeptically and says, "How do you even know that? I mean the princess told me you had something to tell me before I dressed like this."
I gape at him speechlessly in shock. DAMN YOU SMART STRATEGIST!
"I-I'll tell you later," I mumble weakly, avoiding his questioning gaze.
DAMN! MY HEART IS BEATING QUICKLY AGAIN!
We enter the dining hall without speaking. As soon as we step in, I feel warm, like the sun is greeting us. There are many people inside grinning and laughing joyously. There are many round tables scattered neatly around the room. The suave musicians are confidently plucking the strings on their harps, or blow relaxingly into their flutes. Charming, music flows freely out of their instruments and floods the entire room. There are even people dancing merrily with wide smiles. Large platters of food are placed randomly on the small, round tables. The sweet aroma of the food seems to be beckoning me over.
"Whoa!" I say in amazement, gawking at the sight before me.
"Yup," agrees Lu Xun, smiling understandingly. "Lord Sun Ce likes to have great parties."
"I'm hungry. Let's get some food," I announce bluntly, pulling Lu Xun's arm as I walk toward the nearest table with food.
I stare at the platter of warm noodles in a creamy, white sauce. There are fried shrimps and egg sitting on top of the mountain of noodles. Next to the platter of noodles, are small, delicate plates stacked on top of each other. Next to that, is a large box of wooden chopsticks.
"Uhh, what do we do?" I ask stupidly.
"Hello my lady," greets Lu Meng politely, and he nods at Lu Xun. "Lu Xun."
Lu Xuns nods and waits patiently.
"Hi," I reply with a grin.
"My lady, you look beautiful," compliments Lu Meng.
"Thanks," I giggle shyly. "Da Qiao, Xiao Qiao, and Shang Xiang helped me."
"Ahh, I see. Well, to answer your question. You grab a plate, fill it with noodles, take your chopsticks, and enjoy," says Lu Meng. "When you're done, leave your plate on any empty table. A servant or maid will take it to wash."
"Thanks," I say again while grabbing a fragile plate and filling in with noodles.
"Aren't you going to eat anything?" I ask Lu Xun while nibbling on my yummy, chewy noodles.
"Uh, yeah, sure," he replies absentmindedly as he grabs a small dumpling.
I smack him harshly on the arms and say, "Do me a favor and actually eat something, okay?"
"I did!" protests Lu Xun.
"Eat more then," I yell at him.
I loudly slam down my plate and chopsticks when I think of something.
"Is there any alcohol here?" I ask, beginning to panic.
"Why?" asks Lu Xun in confusion.
"Who's the person that's going to get drunk?" I ask alarmingly.
"Probably Gan Ning-" answers Lu Xun.
Right on cue, Gan Ning stumbles ungracefully toward us.
Seeing me back away cautiously, Gan Ning laughs, "Don't worry. I'm not drunk…yet!"
"Don't get drunk," I order commandingly.
Gan Ning raises an eyebrow and says, "What or who's going to stop me?"
"I'm serious. You are going to cause some serious damage if you drink."
"Why don't you two just make a deal?" suggests Zhou Yu nonchalantly as he walks toward us.
"Like what?" I snort.
"How about this. Dance with Lu Xun for a few minutes and I won't drink for this party. This might even be my first time not drinking if you agree," says Gan Ning thoughtfully holding his chin in his hand.
"What else do I get?" I ask.
"Pride?" replies Gan Ning uncertainly.
"A vacation whenever you want?" suggest Zhou Yu generously, carefully glancing at something behind me.
I slowly turn around and see Xiao Qiao and Sun Shang Xiang glaring at Gan Ning and Zhou Yu. I roll my eyes in amusement and annoyance. No wonder.
"Do you want to?" I ask Lu Xun carelessly. But, a small part of me truly hopes that he will say yes.
Lu Xun shrugs and says, "Sure. I think it will save them from the wrath of Lady Xiao Qiao and Princess Sun Shang Xiang."
I freeze in alarm when I hear light footsteps approach me from behind. I force a smile onto my face and turn around again.
Sun Shang Xiang walks to us coolly with her hands behind her back and threatens, "Lu Xun, if you don't do it, I'll personally make sure that you will never plan another fire attack and I will take away all your fire related things including any rocks or wood that you might use to start a fire."
I start to laugh because Sun Shang Xiang's face and tone is currently extremely solemn right now. That and the fact that Lu Xun's eyes are wide in shock and fear and his mouth is wide open.
But, Sun Shang Xiang turns to me and threatens menacingly, "IF YOU DON'T DO THAT AND DO WHAT I TOLD YOU TO DO BEFORE, THEN YOU WILL SAY GOODBYE TO THAT NECKLACE!"
My hands immediately fly to the silver heart on my necklace and I grip it tightly.
"Aaha, just like me Sis!" laughs Sun Ce in a carefree manner, patting Sun Shang Xiang on the head.
"Shut up!" shouts Sun Shang Xiang as she punches her brother on the arm.
"Let's go," mutters Lu Xun in a low voice.
Together, we walk to the area where graceful people are dancing. I highly doubt that we are going to be graceful though.
He places a hand on my waist and with the other, he holds my hand. My left hand is holding his right while my right hand is on his shoulder.
"This…is the most awkward thing I have ever done," I mutter embarrassingly as we move around.
"Didn't you have to do this when you went out to kill people?" asks Lu Xun straightforwardly.
I roll my eyes and say, "Thank you for being so polite about that. To answer that question, no, I didn't. I'm not Diao Chan."
"But you're as pretty as her," mumbles Lu Xun quietly.
"What?" I ask, not hearing him.
"Nothing," he replies with an easy grin. "How'd you know Gan Ning will do some damage if he drinks?"
I shrug and easily reply, "I can kind of tell what people will do based on their personality and some other stuff…..sometimes."
He nods comprehendingly as I move backwards.
"Twirl," he whispers encouragingly as he holds out his arm.
I do as he says and spin-what I hope to be gracefully-on my toes on my right foot. I beautifully twirl back into his arms.
With my back pressing tightly against his chest and with my head resting gently on his collarbone, I whisper sarcastically, "Great, now I'm dizzy. It's just amazing how I'm pulling this off though."
"You've never danced?" he asks with his breath tickling my neck as he twirls me outwards.
"Nope. Well…one time Diao Chan made me attend her dancing lessons in case we had those missions where we dealt with…pigs," I make a disgusted face, "such as Dong Zhuo, but she ended up killing him. I guess I actually learned something from her lessons. Have you danced before?"
"Yeah, with a childhood friend," replies Lu Xun lazily as I lean back slightly.
For some reason, I feel slightly jealous. Is it the same girl he went to visit? And that pretty much makes me mad. I know I'm overreacting, but I seriously cannot help it.
"You know what? It's been a few minutes and I'm getting out of here," I declare in annoyance as I begin to storm furiously out of the room.
I ignore Sun Shang Xiang's protests, Xiao Qiao's questions, Zhou Yu's stare, Gan Ning's laugh, Sun Ce's comments, and Lu Xun. I stomp away angrily until I reach the doors that lead to outside of the palace. I shove them open as hard as I can. Then, I flee to the tall tree that I used to climb onto the roof before. I grab a thick, rough branch and swing myself up, not caring if the branches scratch me slightly or that the branches are ripping my dress a little. I swing myself onto the roof of the Wu palace, sadly pulling out some leaves of the tree in the process. Stumbling, I sit down and let the soothing, cool breeze comb through my hair.
I don't know if I'm happy to hear someone climbing the tree. Maybe I should because someone actually cares about me, maybe I shouldn't because I want some alone time here. I peer over the edge inquiringly. When someone finally arrives on the roof, I can see chocolate brown eyes twinkling worriedly in the dark. I can pretty much guess who the person that intrudes my alone time is now.
"You okay," he asks in concern, sitting down next to me.
"I'm completely fine," I lie convincingly. "I'll tell you now."
"Tell me what?" asks Lu Xun.
"The thing that you were insisting I tell you."
"Oh, okay. Tell me."
"I like-"