Beginning Of The End
Chapter 6
Five Days After The Battle Of Hulao Gate
" The outpost is just over this ridge. There aren't more than ten men guarding her. This should be a simple fight. " Lu Bu grinned as Tiānshî spoke.
" Lu Bu and I will go through the front. Shang, Take the cavalry and circle around. Come in from the rear and surprise them. " Tiānshî smiled as Shang Xiang nodded and moved the cavalry while Lu Bu and Tiānshî ran through the front as Lu Bu yelled.
" I HAVE COME FOR HER! GIVE HER TO ME OR DIE COWARDS! " Lu Bu roared angrily as he swung his halberd wildly, Sending the few soldiers that charged at him flying as Tiānshî darted forward while Shang Xiang and her cavalry charged through the outpost from the rear. Within minutes, The outpost was clear as Tiānshî walked into the main tent and saw a woman in white clothing, Chained to the central post that supported the tent. As she rushed forward to undo the chains, The woman spoke forcefully.
" Stay away from me! I'll kill you! " The woman growled slightly before realising that Tiānshî was undoing the chains before speaking calmly. " Who... Who are you? "
" Relax. I am here with Lord Lu Bu. " Tiānshî's helmet blocked her face from view as the chains fell away and the woman scrambled outside and immediately collided with Lu Bu before he hugged her lovingly.
" Diao Chan... My love... It warms my soul to see you unharmed. " Lu Bu held Diao Chan lovingly as she sighed softly.
" To be held like this by you after so long... I thought I would die before being in your arms again... " Diao Chan hummed softly before turning to face Tiānshî as she spoke.
" Drastic measures are unnecessary. " Tiānshî giggled softly before Diao Chan spoke softly.
" Show me your face. I want to see the face of my rescuer. " Diao Chan had a stern look on her face but as Tiānshî took off her helmet, Diao Chan gasped loudly as tears filled her eyes. " It... It cannot be... "
" My dear? Do you know her? " Lu Bu looked confused before as Diao Chan sobbed softly. Her sobs breaking up her words as she tried to speak.
" I... I shou... Should... A... A mo... Mother... Ne... Never... For... Forgets... Her Dau... Daughters face... " Diao Chan cried softly as she rushed forward and hugged Tiānshî tightly as Tiānshî looked toward Lu Bu with shock on her face that was met with his own as he spoke.
" Daughter?! DAUGHTER?! " Lu Bu stepped back as a stunned look appeared on his face before falling to his knees as he spoke. " We have a second child... "
" Yes. I fell pregnant after we fled Luoyang. I had to give her away when she was born or Dong Zhuo would have enslaved her or worse. But I will never forget her face nor the colour of her hair. She is our daughter Lu. Look into her eyes. See for yourself. " Diao Chan smiled and stepped back as Lu Bu stood and walked over before leaning forward and gazing into Tiānshî's eyes for a moment. As a look of shock appeared on his face, Lu Bu picked Tiānshî up and hugged her lovingly before putting her down and speaking as he continued to hug her.
" No father can look into his child's eyes like this and refuse that they are his. It is true. You are our daughter. " Lu Bu smiled as Diao Chan cried softly before Tiānshî wriggled free of Lu Bu's grasp and stumbled backward before falling to her knees as she spoke.
" N... No... My family died... Cao Cao killed my parents... Killed my sister... This can't be right... " Tiānshî felt her heart ache as she looked toward Diao Chan. " This must be a trick... A lie... My family died... "
" I'll prove it. " Diao Chan walked forward and spoke sternly as Tiānshî bit her lip nervously. " You have a mark on the inside of your right thigh that looks like a bird. Behind your left ear is another that is a small circle. You have had them since birth. I dare you to prove me wrong. " Diao Chan walked back to Lu Bu before Lu Bu whistled to Red Hare and mounted before riding back to Wu as Tiānshî sat for several minutes while her thoughts spiralled out of control.
Five Days Later
After a long day of marching, Tiānshî walked into her house and was immediately tackled by Xieren as she spoke. As she huggedTiānshî tightly, Xieren quickly gasped and moved away as Tiānshî groaned painfully.
" You were hurt!? I told you to be careful! " Xieren helped Tiānshî before taking her to her bedroom and helping her change into a comfortable shirt and knee length skirt as she spoke.
" I am alright Ren. I just need to rest. But I need you to check something first. " Tiānshî smiled as Xieren nodded. " Behind my left ear, Is there a circle there? "
As she looked, Xieren spoke softly. " Yes there is. It is small and looks like the skin is a darker colour. Why? "
" Check my thigh next. The inside of my right thigh. It will look like a bird. " Tiānshî spoke nervously and blushed brightly as Xieren lifted the hem of her skirt and checked before speaking.
" Actually it does kind of look like a bird. Tiānshî, I am so confused. What does this mean? " Xieren looked confused but stepped back quickly as Tiānshî spoke.
" It means that I met my birth mother today. I need to go to the palace. Will you come with me? Please? " Tiānshî looked toward Xieren longingly for a moment before Xieren helped her to her feet and walked with her to the palace.
As they entered, They saw Lu Bu and Diao Chan speaking with Sun Jian.
" You are positive? " Sun Jian spoke sternly before Lu Bu spoke.
" You are a father. Would you not know your child if you looked into her eyes? " Lu Bu looked stern but smiled as Sun Jian sighed and nodded.
" You are correct. Looking into my daughters eyes, I would know that she is my daughter. Even if I had never seen her before. " Sun Jian sighed softly before Diao Chan spoke.
" Then you can understand how we feel. " Diao Chan smiled but gasped and quickly turned around as Tiānshî spoke.
" But not how I feel. " Tiānshî spoke sternly as tears built up in her eyes. " How could you abandon me? I was a baby! "
" I had no choice... If I had kept you, Dong Zhuo would have killed you or raised you to be his concubine. How could I ever let that happen?! " Diao Chan spoke fiercely before Tiānshî rushed forward and slapped her.
" Don't speak to me like you know what I have been through! " Tiānshî bit her lip as she tore away her shirt, Revealing the scars on her stomach and chest before she turned around to show the countless scars adorning her back. " I grew up being tortured in Wei. Don't you dare assume that my life was better thinking my parents were dead. Don't you dare try to tell me that my life was better than living with you. Don't you dare. "
Tiānshî glanced over her shoulder to show tears streaming down her face as Diao Chan spoke shakily. " I would never say that! I wanted to keep you more than anything! I loved you, I still love you more than anything! Everything I did was to keep you safe! And had I known you were in Wei being tortured, I would have burned that entire kingdom to the ground to get you back! I am your mother... There is nothing... NOTHING... That I would not do for you! " Diao Chan cried heavily as her eyes fixated on the scars before Tiānshî fell to her knees and cried loudly as Xieren rushed down the hall and into Shang Xiang's room before taking a blanket, Leaving Shang Xiang in shock, And rushing back to Tiānshî before draping the blanket over her and holding her tightly as Tiānshî managed to hold in her sobs and speak.
" Half of my life was pain and agony. I was nine... NINE when Cao Cao started torturing me. I spent seven years in that dungeon praying and wishing that someone would save me. That someone cared for me. I understand that you tried to keep me safe by sending me away but can you honestly say that it resulted in anything better than what Dong Zhuo may have done? " Tiānshî spoke with heartbreak and agony filling her voice as Diao Chan moved over to her and wrapped her arms around her before pulling her close and holding her lovingly.
" I don't know. I honestly don't know what he would have done but I know what I feared he would do. I gave you away because I wanted you to live. I did not want a life as a slave or concubine and I did not want to watch my daughter die because of the pride of that drunken pig. Torture is not better but you are alive. And now that I have you in my arms, I will fight all of China to keep you safe. I lost so much time with you and I will do everything... Anything... To make up for that. " Diao Chan sobbed loudly as Tiānshî nuzzled against her.
" This feeling is all I have wanted for so long. For seven years, I dreamed of being held like this by my mother. I thought I would never get that chance. Now... I never want it to end... " Tiānshî sighed softly as she put her arms around Diao Chan and held her tightly. " Promise me something... "
" Anything darling. " Diao Chan sniffled softly as Tiānshî breathed slowly.
" Never leave me alone again. I have been through so much... My heart can't take any more... " Tiānshî cried softly as Diao Chan kissed her head gently.
" Never my love. You are my moon and stars. I will never let you go again. " Diao Chan ran her hand down Tiānshî's cheek gently as Tiānshî cried softly for several more minutes before Xieren helped her up and walked her home. As they left, Lu Bu walked over and stood beside Diao Chan as he spoke.
" We will have a lot of work ahead to earn her trust. " Lu Bu sighed as Diao Chan nodded. " That being said, She is our daughter. Hell knows no fury like the wrath we will bring upon any that harm her. "
" Starting with Wei. I will personally kill any bastard that put their hands on her. I will kill every last one of those worthless scum if it is the last thing I do. " Diao Chan's eyes burned with rage and anger as Sun Jian spoke.
" And Wu will march at your backs. Let us work together. Tiānshî is as much my own daughter as she is yours and I will show the same wrath as the two of you. Wei has much to answer for. Even with Cao Cao dead. " Sun Jian smiled as Lu Bu and Diao Chan turned and looked toward him before nodding. " For now, Tiānshî needs to let her wounds heal and you both need rest. There is a guest room down the hall. It is yours. We will see what unfolds in the days to come. "
" Thank you my lord. I appreciate your hospitality and your care for our daughter. " Diao Chan smiled before walking down the hall with Lu Bu as Sun Jian sighed audibly and walked toward his chambers.
The Next Day
Tiānshî awoke slowly and groaned softly as she sat up to see Shang Xiang sitting on the end of her bed.
" Shang? Is everything okay? " Tiānshî looked confused as Shang Xiang spoke softly.
" I... I need to ask... And I know it sounds stupid but... We are still sisters right? " Shang Xiang bit her lip as a look of shock appeared on Tiānshî's face as she continued. " I followed Xieren after she stole my blanket and heard everything. I love you so much. I don't want you to grow apart from us now that your birth parents are here. "
" How could you think that?! Of course we are still sisters! I don't care who comes back or what they claim to be! You are my sister. Nothing will ever change that. " Tiānshî smiled brightly as Shang Xiang cried softly. " Come here you idiot. "
Shang Xiang giggled hoarsely before crawling along the bed and nuzzling against Tiānshî's chest as she hugged her lovingly. " I love you so much Tiānshî. I am sorry if I am being silly but I had to ask. It was tearing at my heart all night. "
" I understand your worry sister. But nothing will change how much I love you and our brothers. Nothing will change how much I love father. You are all my family. " Tiānshî kissed Shang Xiang's cheek gently before wiping her tears away and smiling as Shang Xiang managed to stop sobbing. After a few minutes of hugs, Shang Xiang helped Tiānshî out of bed and walked with her to the dining room as Xieren put a plate of breakfast on the table for both of them as she spoke.
" I spoke with my family last night my lady. They would like to bring you some herbs for your garden so you can make medicines again. If you would like that? " Xieren whimpered nervously but smiled brightly as Tiānshî smiled and nodded. " I was worried it might upset you. "
" It may have a few weeks ago. But I am slowly getting past my pain. Scars keep opening and closing but I am a work in progress. The palace wasn't built in a day. " Tiānshî giggled softly as the three of them sat and ate breakfast. As they finished breakfast, Shang Xiang motioned to leave but as she opened the door, She was met by a royal messenger.
" Oh! Apologies Lady Xiang but I carry a message for Lady Tiānshî. A visitor has arrived that is asking for her. Lord Sun Jian has requested her presence as soon as possible. " The messenger bowed before walking back to the palace as Shang Xiang turned and spoke.
" I will walk with you sister. I could use some more hugs anyway. " Shang Xiang smiled before draping Tiānshî's arm around her shoulders and walking with her to the palace. As they walked through the doors, They saw Sun Jian, Diao Chan and Lu Bu standing beside a large man in heavy plate armour. As he turned, He briskly walked forward before speaking brashly.
" You are the child that killed Lord Cao Cao. " The man spoke with a deep voice before taking off his helmet and kneeling as Tiānshî nodded silently. " My name is Pang De. I apologise now for I had a hand in keeping Lady Diao Chan prisoner. But now I have come to offer you my allegiance. My duty to Wei died with Cao Cao and the city was never my home. "
" You imprisoned my mother. How do I know I can trust you? " Tiānshî spoke softly but gasped as Pang De stood, Removed his chest plate and pulled a dagger from his boot before holding it to his chest as Sun Jian and Diao Chan motioned to draw their weapons but calmed down as Pang De spoke.
" If you believe me to be of ill will or that I have malicious intent, Then loose your rage upon me and claim my life. " Pang De took a slow breathe as he closed his eyes, Awaiting the sting of his dagger. As he breathed out, Pang De felt a slap on his hand as his dagger was knocked from his hand before looking toward Tiānshî as it clattered to the floor.
" If I wanted your life, I would have taken it on the battlefield where a warrior should die. I do however, Accept your offer. I need all the help I can get to become stronger. Help me and have your freedom. I want no slaves. Only friends and family. " Tiānshî smiled warmly as a look of surprised etched on to Pang De's face for a moment before he shook off his surprise and spoke calmly.
" Then, I am honoured to be counted among them. I will be your mighty shield and teach you all that I know. I thank you for your kindness young one. " Pang De bowed politely and picked up his chest plate before Lu Bu walked over and motioned for him to follow. After they left, Diao Chan walked over and kissed Tiānshî's forehead lovingly.
" It surprises me how much you have grown. The last time I saw you, I could fit your entire body on one arm. Now, I see a beautiful young woman that turns enemies into allies with a handful of words. It truly is a wish fulfilled to see the woman you have become darling. " Diao Chan smiled as Tiānshî leant her head against Diao Chan's chest and breathed slowly.
" I still have so much pain in my heart. I still have so long to go on the path that I walk. But I am glad that my mother is here to see it. " Tiānshî smiled as Diao Chan hugged her lovingly.
" And here I will stay my love. Always. " Diao Chan peppered Tiānshî's face with gentle kisses for a few moments before walking out of the palace as Sun Jian smiled.
" They have agreed to allow us to count you as one of our family going forward. I appreciate the chance to continue calling you my daughter. " Sun Jian smiled as Tiānshî surged forward and hugged him lovingly.
" Had they disagreed it would have changed nothing. You are my father too. " Tiānshî smiled before kissing Sun Jian's cheek gently as he smiled happily. After a moment of holding Tiānshî, Sun Jian spoke calmly.
" I have something to ask you. Two young girls arrived today asking to join us as your personal guards. They apparently were present at Hulao Gate and watched you fight from afar. Would you like to meet them? " Sun Jian smiled as Tiānshî nodded before looking toward his throne where the two girls were watching quietly.
As the two girls ran over, Tiānshî took in their appearances. One had long, Pepper coloured hair that was braided in a ponytail with bright blue eyes and pale skin. The other had strawberry blonde hair with pale green eyes and pale skin. The first introduce herself as Lièshì and the second introduced herself as Zāihài as they bowed politely before Zāihài spoke softly.
" We followed your army after you left the city. We are orphans and had nowhere to go. We arrived the day you left for Hulao Gate so instead of getting in the way, We watched you from the overlook. Seeing the army work so well together made us confident that we chose correctly in wanting to join Wu. But it was your fight with Lu Bu that made us realise we wanted to fight for you. " Zāihài smiled warmly as Lièshì agreed with her. After a moment, Tiānshî spoke softly.
" It would be my honour to have you as my guards. But you are still so young and inexperienced. We will need to train you both properly before you can join us on the battlefield. Let us go to the arena. We can start right away. " Tiānshî smiled as the two girls squealed excitedly before running out of the palace and toward the arena as Tiānshî followed them slowly. After she arrived, The two girls seemed eager to fight but calmed down as Tiānshî spoke.
" The first step is to learn basics. For this you will be given a training sword and a set of splint armour like the other recruits. You will not use any other weapon until I tell you. Is that clear? " Tiānshî spoke sternly but smiled as the two girls nodded quickly. " Good. Go to the barracks. They will outfit you for training. Return here once you are ready. "
Tiānshî smiled brightly as the two young warriors ran toward the barracks excitedly. After several minutes, The girls returned wearing training armour and wielding training blades. As they smiled excitedly, Tiānshî spoke softly. " Alright you two, I know you are excited but I need you to listen very carefully and follow every instruction. I don't want either of you getting hurt. Shang will teach you what she taught me and then you will train with my mother, Diao Chan. They will teach you what I do not know while I train with my brothers. Behave yourselves and do as you are told. " Tiānshî smiled as the two young girls smiled excitedly before walking toward the palace.
As she arrived, Tiānshî saw Lu Bu sitting in the garden with a knife and a piece of wood. As she walked over, Tiānshî spoke softly. " Father? Are you alright? "
" When I was a boy, I watched my friends get gifts from their fathers. Often they were handmade. Over the years, I found myself with free time and decided to try my hand at it. So, I am making you something. " Lu Bu smiled as Tiānshî sighed cutely before hugging him tightly.
" I love you so much father. I would love to stay and watch you work but I am learning warfare tactics and strategy with Ce and Quan today. I'll see you for dinner tonight? " Tiānshî smiled as Lu Bu nodded gruffly before returning to his work as Tiānshî walked inside the palace and headed to the war room. Upon entering, Tiānshî sighed as Sun Ce and Sun Quan each placed a pile of books on the table.
The Next Day
Tiānshî had awoken early and was in her garden bathing. As she sat under the waterfall, She felt an uneasy feeling before emotions slowly seeped into her mind. As tears quickly rolled down her cheeks, Tiānshî sang softly.
I never felt
That it was wise
To wish too much
To dream too big
Would only lead
To being crushed
.
Then I met you
You weren't afraid
Of anything
You taught me how
To leave the ground
To use my wings
.
I never thought a hero
Would ever come my way
But more than that
I never thought
You'd be taken away
.
Now it's cold without you here
It's like winter lasts all year
But your star's still in the sky
So I won't say goodbye
I don't have to say goodbye
.
My days of doubt
Were in the past
With you around
You helped me feel
I had a place
Direction found
.
You showed me that
A greater dream
Can be achieved
Enough resolve
Will conquer all
If we believe
.
The light you gave to guide me
Will never fade away
But moving forward never felt
As hard as today
.
Now it's cold without you here
It's like winter lasts all year
But your star's still in the sky
So I won't say goodbye
I don't have to say goodbye
.
As she stopped singing, Tiānshî sighed softly before hearing soft sobbing noises and looking toward the house to see Xieren and Shang Xiang looking toward her before Xieren walked to the bath and stepped into the water before wading over to Tiānshî and hugging her tightly as she spoke.
" It breaks my heart to see how much pain you have hidden away. " Xieren held Tiānshî lovingly as Tiānshî sighed softly and spoke.
" It feels like I will drown in the unending pain. " Tiānshî bit her lip as tears built up in her eyes again. " Killing Cao Cao did nothing to ease it. It did nothing to take away my pain or rage. I still feel like I am being consumed by everything inside. Killing him changed nothing! " Tiānshî pulled away from Xieren before getting out of the bath and running into her house.
The Next Day
Tiānshî awoke slowly and sighed sadly before getting dressed and leaving her house. As she stood outside, She looked toward the palace before turning and walking out of the city gates slowly. As the guard captain watched her leave, He sent a scout to the palace.
Shang Xiang, Sun Jian, Sun Ce, Sun Quan, Lu Bu and Diao Chan were eating breakfast as Lu Bu spoke.
" I wonder if Tiānshî would like to train with me. Perhaps I should ask her. " Lu Bu spoke calmly before a scout quickly ran over and whispered in Sun Jian's ear. After a moment, Sun Jian sighed loudly and spoke.
" Tiānshî has left the city. " Sun Jian looked frustrated but sighed softly before looking toward Shang Xiang. " See if you can find your sister. Take her handmaiden with you. "
" No. Let her be. " Lu Bu spoke calmly as Sun Jian looked toward him with irritation. " Save your glares boy. I will go looking for her later. For now, Leave her to her thoughts. "
Meanwhile
Tiānshî walked through the fields before finding herself at the edge of the nearby forest they had rode past on their way to Wu from their battle with the Yellow Turbans. As she walked through the forest, Tiānshî came upon a small lake surrounded by flowers and wild herbs. After taking a deep breathe and filling her senses with the aroma of the flowers and herbs, Tiānshî sat down and laid back on the soft grass as she looked up at the sky.
After a few hours, Tiānshî gasped softly as Lu Bu's voice filled the clearing. " You were not as hard to find as I expected daughter. " Lu Bu chuckled before walking over and sitting next to Tiānshî. " What vexes you my dear? "
" I thought that killing Cao Cao would make my pain go away. Or at least make it stop hurting so much. But it didn't. " Tiānshî bit her lip as tears built up in her eyes before she continued. " It is still there. Still haunting me. Still consuming me. "
" You know, Pain isn't just a torment. It is also a teacher, A reminder, and yet, It can also be enjoyable. " Lu Bu smirked as Tiānshî looked at him in shock. " Oh not for me! I don't enjoy it like that. But some people do. Pleasure and pain go hand in hand for them. What I am saying is that instead of crying and drowning in your pain, You should find a new way to see it. "
" But how? How do I do that? " Tiānshî spoke softly as tears streamed down her face before Lu Bu pulled her on to his lap and held her lovingly as she sighed contently.
" There is nothing I would not give to have that answer for you. But alas, No one can answer it. It is something you find within yourself. That being said, If you get sick of searching, There is somewhere I would like to take you. " Lu Bu sighed softly before continuing. " And someone I would like you to meet. Though I do not know if she will accept you. She has spent her life at my side in battle. Hulao Gate was the exception. She was needed elsewhere. "
" Who is she? " Tiānshî spoke softly but had a visibly distressed look on her face as Lu Bu spoke.
" Your older sister. Lu Lingqi. She is much like myself. Courageous with a thirst for battle. Yet she has a softer side. Much like you. Though she may not accept you right away, I think she will enjoy having a sister. " Lu Bu smiled warmly as Tiānshî sighed softly.
" Father, I don't know... " Tiānshî whimpered softly before sighing and speaking. " I have had enough heartbreak for one lifetime. "
" I know. But we are a family again. Heartbreak is not something we will allow you to feel. Not because of us at least. " Lu Bu smiled before tousling Tiānshî's hair gently. " Now go get ready. We will head out soon. Your sister will arrive tonight. "
Tiānshî nodded solemnly before walking away as Lu Bu sighed audibly.
Afternoon
" What is this place father? " Tiānshî looked around as her voice echoed through the cave they walked in as Lu Bu spoke calmly.
" This is Heroes Peak. Every mighty hero in history has come here and received a weapon of unimaginable power. My Divine Halberd is one of these weapons. I brought you here in the hopes you will receive a weapon. Come along. " Lu Bu kept walking as Tiānshî nervously followed. After a few minutes, The cave became spacious and the floor seemed to shimmer with an otherworldly light before a feminine voice filled the cavern.
" Back already? Was your Divine Halberd not enough? " The woman spoke softly before regarding Tiānshî as she looked toward her. " Oh... She is here... "
" You know me? " Tiānshî spoke nervously as the woman smiled.
" Indeed I do little one. I have been expecting you for quite some time. Let us see if you are truly who I think you are. " The woman smiled warmly before a trio of bright lights surged through the cave floor before stopping at Tiānshî's feet. As the light rose out of the floor, The cave trembled lightly as the woman spoke cautiously. " By the heavens... "
Tiānshî trembled slightly as the light dimmed slowly, Revealing a pair of identical swords and sheathes. The blades were jet black, But a slightly curved and keenly sharpened edge. The blades themselves looked as if they had layered dents throughout the metal but glistening with a silvery swirling pattern. Along the flat back edge of the blade was identical writing carefully etched into the metal. The hilts were tightly bound with deep blood red cord that was intricately braided and each had a pommel that resembled a claw, Firmly gripping deep blood red jewels that glistened as if they were full of liquid. The handles also had small, Intricately decorated plates that prevented the blade slipping through the wielders hands and held the blades in place. As Tiānshî gazed toward the blades in awe, The blades floated in front of her as if waiting for her to take them as the woman chuckled softly before speaking.
" The blades before you are the Twin Daemons. I caution you in their use little one. The Daemons bloodlust is insatiable and they will whisper to you. Encouraging bloodlust and carnage. However, Feeding that thirst will make them immensely powerful. Though, I recommend you attempt some restraint. " The woman smiled before Lu Bu chuckled heartily.
" A fine blessing for my daughter. Take your blades my dear. It is time to meet your sister. " Lu Bu turned and left the cave asTiānshî sheathed the blades before tying them to her back.
Nightfall
As Tiānshî and Lu Bu rode through the gate of Wu, They were met by a young woman wearing similar armour to Lu Bu's. As she noticed them, A slight smile adorned her lips as she ran forward and bowed.
" Father! It is an honour to be in your presence again. "
" Lingqi. It is good to see you daughter. There is someone I want you to meet. " Lu Bu dismounted before walking forward with Tiānshî in tow. As he stepped aside, He spoke softly. " Meet your younger sister. Lu Tiānshî. "
" He... Hello... Sister... " Tiānshî spoke nervously and trembled slightly as Lu Lingqi walked over to her.
" Sister huh? Why don't we have a little sparring match? I wanna see how tough you are. " Lu Lingqi grinned as Tiānshî nodded calmly. After walking home and putting on her armour, Tiānshî walked to the arena to see Lu Lingqi standing in the arena holding a sword and shield. As Tiānshî entered the arena and drew her twin blades, She spoke softly.
" I don't like the idea of fighting my family. " Tiānshî spoke softly before sheathing her blades. " Even if it is just sparring. Respectfully sister, I will not fight you. "
Lu Lingqi huffed loudly before sheathing her sword. " Guess I will have to wait until a proper battle to see you fi... "
" She defeated me. " Lu Bu spoke calmly before Lu Lingqi looked toward him with shock and horror on her face.
" You lie father. No one can beat you. " Lu Lingqi spoke shakily as she trembled and looked toward Tiānshî. " WHO THE HELL ARE YOU?! "
" I am Tiānshî. Your little sister. " Tiānshî narrowed her gaze as a malicious aura emanated out of her. " But do not mistake my refusal to fight you as weakness. I will more than happily demonstrate my strength against anyone who threatens my family or my life. But I will never fight the ones I love. I may have just met you... " Tiānshî breathed out slowly as the aura dissipated and she spoke calmly. " But you are my sister. I would never raise my blade against you. When I fought our father, I didn't know he was my father or I would not have fought him either. You might see that as weakness, But I have my reasons. "
" Tell me. " Lu Lingqi spoke forcefully but had a resigned look as Tiānshî shook her head.
" I will show you. Come with me sister. " Tiānshî left the arena and walked home with Lu Bu and Lu Lingqi in tow. As they arrived, Xieren walked outside to meet them.
" My lady! I did not expect you home so soon. Good evening Lord Lu Bu. " Xieren bowed politely and smiled as Lu Bu bowed and tousled her hair gently before Xieren looked toward Lu Lingqi. " I do not believe we have met. My name is Xieren. I am Lady Tiānshî's handmaiden. "
" Lu Lingqi. Daughter of Lu Bu. " Lu Lingqi walked past Xieren without waiting for a response as Lu Bu spoke.
" I will wait in the dining room. Call if you require my aid. " Lu Bu smiled as Tiānshî nodded before walking to her bedroom with Lu Lingqi in tow. After walking in and closing the door, Lu Lingqi spoke sternly.
" Well get on with it. I have better things to do than stand around. " Lu Lingqi sighed irritably before falling silent as Tiānshî took off her armour and let it fall to the floor as she spoke.
" I grew up in a village on the Yuan River. When I was nine, Cao Cao destroyed my village and killed the only family I had ever known. I went after him and got captured. I spent seven years being tortured. " Tiānshî slowly pulled her shirt off as a horrified look crept over Lu Lingqi's face while Tiānshî continued. " I may not be strong like you or a warrior like you, But I have been through more than enough. I refuse to fight my family because I cannot stand the thought of having that blood on my hands. The blood of the people I love. If that is weakness to you, Then we might not get along as I had hoped. "
" Cao Cao did this? " Lu Lingqi walked forward and ran her fingers over Tiānshî's scars as Tiānshî winced slightly.
" Yes... And others. " Tiānshî shivered lightly as Lu Lingqi seized her shoulders and turned her around before regarding the scars on her stomach and chest.
" Did you kill him? " Lu Lingqi paused as Tiānshî nodded silently. " Did it help? "
" No. I am still haunted by it. All the pain. The memories. " Tiānshî bit her lip gently as Lu Lingqi caressed her cheek gently before speaking with ferocity.
" Then we kill them all. Until it does help. Until it doesn't haunt you anymore. " Lu Lingqi smiled slightly as Tiānshî nuzzled against her hand as she spoke.
" It is comforting to know that you care. I was worried you... You might not want me... " Tiānshî looked away sheepishly as Lu Lingqi giggled softly.
" I admit, At first I didn't. I had no reason to want a sister that looked like she couldn't hold the blades she wore. But hearing father admit defeat and seeing your scars... " Lu Lingqi stepped away as she shivered visibly. " I have never beaten our father. And torture... For seven years? I honestly don't know if I would have survived that. I don't even know who I would be if I did survive it. You might not be a warrior. Yet. But you are definitely my sister. "
" That means a lot to me. More than you know. " Tiānshî stepped forward and hugged Lu Lingqi lovingly as a shocked looked adorned Lu Lingqi's face for a moment before she put her arms around Tiānshî and held her gently.
" Not gonna lie, This is a little outside my comfort zone. " Lu Lingqi giggled nervously as Tiānshî stepped back and sighed sadly. " No, I didn't mean it that way! I am just not an emotional person. "
" It's okay. As long as you accept me, I can get my hug fix elsewhere. " Tiānshî smiled sweetly as Lu Lingqi groaned nervously.
" No... I'm sorry. I can tolerate hugs. I am just... I'm new to this sister thing. I haven't had to be... " Lu Lingqi groaned audibly before Tiānshî touched her cheek gently.
" It's okay. I'm not mad or upset. " Tiānshî smiled as Lu Lingqi sighed softly and nodded before leaving the room as Tiānshî got dressed. As she walked into the dining room, Lu Bu spoke calmly.
" You have the look of someone who made a mistake daughter. " Lu Bu looked toward Lu Lingqi as she sighed and nodded before taking a sip of his tea as she spoke.
" I... I didn't understand. Now I do. " Lu Lingqi sighed softly as Lu Bu chuckled before Lu Lingqi growled. " Shut up! So what if I didn't get it! I know now. "
" True enough. Tea? " Lu Bu poured a second cup for himself before filling a cup for Lu Lingqi as she sighed and nodded before sitting down. " I am glad you have found it within yourself to be her sister. She needs all the love she can get. "
" I know okay? I get it. I saw her scars. I saw the torment and agony in her eyes. I don't need a damn lecture father. " Lu Lingqi huffed as she turned away before freezing as Lu Bu shot her a disapproving glare. " I... I'm sorry father I just... This is a lot alright? Being a sister doesn't come with instructions. "
" Neither did being a father. I am not asking you to be an exceptional sister. I am simply asking you to be a good sister. If that means tea and hugs every so often then that is good enough. " Lu Bu sipped his tea as Xieren placed a plate of pastries on the table as Tiānshî walked out and sat down before Xieren sat on her lap and kissed her cheek gently.
" That your girlfriend huh? " Lu Lingqi smirked devilishly as Tiānshî blushed brightly before Xieren spoke.
" Actually I am. So if you do anything to hurt her... " Xieren leant forward before grabbing the front of Lu Lingqi's armour and pulling her against the table roughly as she spoke fiercely. " I will kill you in ways you don't even realise are possible. "
" Y... Yeah... Sure. " Lu Lingqi pulled away from Xieren before fixing her armour as Tiānshî spoke.
" Ling won't hurt me Ren. " Tiānshî smiled as Lu Lingqi blushed lightly and spoke softly.
" Did you just give me a nickname? " Lu Lingqi looked shocked but had a small smile playing at the corner of her lips as Tiānshî nodded nervously. " I... It's cute... "
" It suits you daughter. " Lu Bu grinned as Lu Lingqi glared toward him angrily.
" I will cut you and I will enjoy it father. " Lu Lingqi glared threateningly as Lu Bu smiled and Tiānshî giggled softly before Lu Lingqi sighed softly as Xieren spoke.
" It's getting late. We should bathe before bed. " Xieren smiled as Tiānshî blushed brightly and nodded before Lu Bu stood and spoke.
" Well, We will leave you to it. I will see you in the morning for training. " Lu Bu smiled as Tiānshî nodded silently while Xieren nibbled her neck gently, Forcing a soft gasp to escape Tiānshî's lips as she blushed brightly before Lu Bu left with Lu Lingqi ahead of him.
As they left Tiānshî's house, Lu Lingqi abruptly stopped as Shang Xiang bumped into her gently before sighing cutely.
" My my... Sister has found another cute girl to keep around. Who might you be? " Shang Xiang grinned playfully as Lu Lingqi blushed lightly and spoke nervously.
" Lu Lingqi... I... I am Tiānshî's birth sister. You are? " Lu Lingqi bit her lip as she absent mindedly ran her eyes down Shang Xiang's body before looking shocked as Shang Xiang giggled.
" Eyes are up here sweety. " Shang Xiang giggled playfully as Lu Lingqi blushed brightly. " I am Sun Shang Xiang. Tiānshî's adoptive sister. Just call me Shang cutey. "
" S... Sure... Shang... " Lu Lingqi blushed brightly as Shang Xiang winked before walking past her into Tiānshî's house while Lu Lingqi took a few sharp breathes before walking hurriedly toward the castle as Lu Bu followed her calmly with a small smirk on his face.
Chapter 6
End