Target is in my sight.
The string of the bow went taught with tension as I pulled back the arrow, the tip of which pointing at the deer's head a few feet away. My eye on level with the arrow. My arms are perfectly parallel to each other. The view from behind my night vision goggles giving me a clear visual of an otherwise a target shrouded in darkness.
Deep breath.
Ready. Steady.
Release.
The arrow zoomed so fast, I could barely see it. But I knew where it hit soon as the deer had fallen to the ground with a squeal.
Bullseye!
After that part was taken care of, I went around collecting the usual fruit. I haven't found much mushroom this time. But I did spot some at the base of a tree. I pulled out the spearhead and cut them off before stuffing them in the bag alongside the apples and berries. Once the bag was full, I approached the deer and removed the arrow from its head and put it back in the quiver before kneeling down next to my quarry. It was a female. The same exact size as the buck I took down the first time I got here. Her six pointer antlers stood sharp and firm. Just perfect for me to hang the bag on!
There! Not ten minutes have passed since I got here and the job is already done! The bow I have acquired after my spat with Lu Xun yesterday sure is saving me a lot of time and effort. No more will I have to take down deer with my own hands. A single shot to the right spot and it's over in a flash. Making this night charade go by faster than ever.
As I was dragging the deer to the village, my thoughts wandered off as if to help me pass the time until I reach my destination. My mind drifted back to the camp that almost got destroyed during the war against Wu. I suppose we got extremely lucky the camp is still standing. Not to mention our biggest victory against Wu so far since this expedition started. All things considered, things turned out okay for us.
What about Lord Liu Bei, Guan Yu and Zhang Fei? I mean they're obviously snoring in bless in their tents. But sometimes I'd worry that one of them would wake up for any given reason, peeing for instance, and they decide to check in on me in my tent only to find it empty! While the possibility is still there, it's still very weak. Weak enough for me to laugh it off. I mean, they have no reason to do that, right? As far as they're concerned, I'm sleeping in my tent like a trainwreck.
I took in my surroundings at the dark woods and that's when I decided to move my goggles to my forehead turning the green hued view into its original blackness. It isn't that horribly dark though. The fullmoon light filtering through the somewhat scarce trees offered a decent visibility. I decided to take the time to appreciate the view while I'm at it. The scenery of the dark beautiful forest and the cool breeze against my uncovered head felt nice and soothing especially after everything that had happened so far. However, I can't lose focus admiring the view. I kept an eye and ear out for any potential predator out there. So far, I have never met any but it's still a huge chance I'll have to defend myself. If a wolf wanted to steal my kill, it will have to pry it from my cold dead hands!
"Eeehh..." I yawned so hard, I almost dislocated my jaw. Man, I'm tired. I haven't gone to sleep as early as I would have liked. Helping with the camp repairs took longer than expected. No matter, thanks to my newly acquired weapon, I can finish the job faster and go to bed earlier.
Finally, reached the village border. I pulled up my hood and mask then worn the goggles so that I looked like a horror movie poltergeist. I carefully got closer and surveyed the view from among the bushes. Then I went back to the deer and dragged it to the usual spot by the well, bag of gold in tow.
Just as I was about to leave, I spotted what seemed to be a deer carcass not too far away. Turned out it is the remains of the first buck I had hunted. I approached it for a better look and see how much of it is left, which isn't exactly much. It's just another proof of how hungry these people are. I walked around to look for the other smaller deer I caught the night after and sure enough, the remains hung over an extinguished firespit.
I'm still aware of the fact that someone might be watching through a window but I wouldn't worry too much about that. Even if they saw me like they did last time, they still wouldn't recognise me. From their point of view, I'm just a faceless green eyed weirdo leaving them breakfast next to a well.
Don't mind me, folk. The Guardian Angel is just walking around! I'm totally not the same handsome general you met a few days before!
I decided I should stop goofing around because not only am I pushing my luck by being here too long but I just let out another yawn that almost busted my ears. So I turned around, took one last look at the items I left by the well, then went back to camp. I can hear the cot in my tent calling my name.
sex addicts, drugs, and vampires
They permeate my life
Don't know which one I'm gonna be tonight
"Zhao Yun!"
"Zzzz..."
I know you think I'm crazy
You think I've lost my mind
I'm locked and loaded got you in my sights
"Zhao Yun!"
"Zzzzz..."
You are my nemesis
The one I can't resist
I got a one track mind
"Boy!"
"Zzzzz..."
Turn the lights out
Lay your head down
"WAKE THE FUCK UP!"
"Aye!" I sprung up at the sound of roaring thunder shaking my entire tent - oh, it wasn't thunder. Just Lord Zhang Fei.
"TURN THIS SHIT OFF!" and in my sleep drunken state, I obeyed. "Tahell is the matter with you? You sleep like a roadkill! Literally the entire camp heard your blasted alarm except for you!"
"Says the guy whose voice can be heard throughout China." I retorted rubbing my eye.
"If this is what it takes to wake your lazy ass up, then so the fuck be it." He said calmer this time. "Hurry up and join us."
"Still tired... Five more minutes..."
"No can do, boy! It's an important strategy meeting! Brother has been paranoid since the invasion on our camp yesterday. Heh, can't blame him."
"Ugh..." I groaned putting a hand at my forehead feeling the headache which I wasn't sure is due to sleep deprivation or Zhang Fei's yelling. I'll go for both. "Very well. I'll be with you shortly."
"You'd better be or I'll yank you out from the tent and carry you there myself!" He warned playfully (well, not really) before getting his head out the tent.
I stayed still on my knees huffing in annoyance and exhaustion. Man, I could use some coffee right now. Too bad there isn't any otherwise I wouldn't have even bothered with making a proper mug and just eat the damn whole coffee beans. Maybe I shouldn't have gone to the forest last night. I have already fed the villagers twice in a row. Surely they would have been able to wait a night without a meal since they're no longer in danger of starvation. I should have just delayed and got all the rest I needed. I guess there's no point in beating myself up when what's happened has happened. At least those people are having their fill right now which is why I'm not regretting my decision as much.
Grumply, I walked out the tent. I didn't even bother putting my armor back on except for the boots. The least I could do is to smooth out my clothes and brush my hair in order to look presentable. I approached my leader, fellow generals and a few squad leaders who're gathered around the table in the large conference tent. I noticed how it has little tear, holes and scorch marks on it from yesterday's attack. Master Liu Bei is right to freak out.
Speaking of which, the look on his face when he saw me made me believe I don't have my pants on. I looked down and, yup, there they are. Maybe the zipper is open and Little Zhao Yun is poking through - hold on, I don't have a zipper. I blame the lack of sleep.
"Are you alright, Zhao Yun? You look like hell!" Commented my lord.
"Hehehehe he does look like shit, does he?" Giggled Zhang Fei.
"Are you okay, Zhao Yun?" asked Guan Yu looking concerned. And I guess the other soldiers looked somewhat spooked at the sight of my 'I want to punch a ho' sleepy face.
"Mrph..." I nodded.
"Ok, now that everyone is here. Shall we begin?" Asked Lord Liu Bei and when the silence confirmed as an answer, he proceeded. "As you all know, the attack on our camp yesterday has taken quite a toll on our state. We have lost lives. Lost resources. And almost lost shelter. And I will probably lose my mind from all the sunlight getting into my eyes!" We all chuckled at how the sunlight would stream through the tent slit and aim straight at Lord Liu Bei's face. "Anyway, we need to undertake extreme measures in order to ensure we don't get taken offguard again. We don't want our camp to become almost defenseless every time our troops go to war." He gestured at a map representing our camp. "As you can see here, this here is the center of our camp." He pointed at the spot where the firepit is. "And these are the borders." He drew circles with his finger around the edges of the map. "I want archers and troopers to stay on guard. I already called Master Zhuge Liang to send us reinforcements seeing as our numbers are becoming too low. We won't survive another attack if the camp got invaded again."
The meeting droned on about strengthening security around base until help arrives. Once our forces reach a desirable number, they will be evenly split between guarding the camp and going to war, with two generals staying and the other two going. From now on, Master Liu Bei and Zhang Fei will stay to guard the camp while me and Guan Yu go to the battlefield.
"Excuse me, Master Liu Bei." I asked for permission.
"Zhao Yun?" He smiled in my direction.
"What about your injury? Are you going to be able to help guard the camp with it?" I asked eyeing his arm that's still hanging with a sling.
"As a matter of fact, I did participate in the battle yesterday best as I could." He nodded. "But I realise my condition is still vulnerable. So while I shall do my best to keep the camp safe alongside Brother Zhang Fei, I shall try to keep the fighting to a minimum. I'm currently unable to wield two swords so I shall use my good arm while making sure not to strain the other one."
"..." Even though he can still join the battlefield, fighting in such a condition is still somewhat risky leaving me a little concerned. But I suppose it can't be helped. Fighting in an imperfect condition is something we're no strangers to. All I can do is have faith in my lord and do my job.
After a half hour of planning (and Lord Liu Bei constantly moving his head to avoid getting blinded by the intruding sunlight) I crawled back inside my tent after the meeting. I was planning to sleep in for a couple more hours but by then I became awake enough so I wouldn't be able to fall asleep again. Instead, I actually decided to put my armor back on. As I was getting dressed, my eyes fell upon on the poncho, which reminded me of the village which, in turn, reminded me of - oh yes, the chief!
Has he seen me yesterday? Because, to be truthful, the reason why I had left in a hurry last night because I felt like I was being watched. I wasn't sure it was my imagination but I did see what looked like a shadow moving across one of the windows. And even though I was at no risk of getting recognised, I didn't want to chance it.
Come to think of it, I haven't seen the chief this morning. Had he already visited us and left? Or is he yet to stop by? I might as well ask Master Liu Bei about it. First off, I helped myself to a chicken dumpling from my loot bag. I have to make sure to keep resource consumption to a minimum, at least until Lord Zhang Fei returns with the hunting party. I finished the dumpling before chugging some water then walked out the tent to find my lord. I found him speaking to one of the squad leader and his subordinates. Probably to discuss their roles and positions and whatnot. Once the soldiers walked off, I carefully snuck up on my lord from behind.
"Boo!"
"Very funny, Zhao Yun." He smirked.
"Time to change your bandages, lord."
"Ah, right. Very well then. Lead the way." We both walked together towards the medical tent which is the only one that remained perfectly intact. It was placed slightly further away under the tree among the bushes to give the patients some privacy.
When we entered, there were a few injured soldiers who had survived yesterday's disaster. I told my lord to make himself comfortable while I check on everyone's conditions without disturbing them. Most of them were sleeping. I approached the awake ones and carefully asked if they needed anything at which they declined with a smile. With that, I turned back to my lord.
"Zhao Yun." I walked over to find Master Liu Bei ushering me to the exit holding some fresh bandages in his hand. "I don't want to disturb them. You can change my bandages while we chat back at my tent." I agreed without hesitation. I've been meaning to talk with him anyway.
During the short walk to his tent, he was being greeted here and there by passer-by soldiers, occasionally receiving a quick report, until we were inside the dark confines of his tent which are slightly interrupted from the sunlight streaming through the cut on the side.
"Curses!" Grumpled my lord while shielding his eyes.
"Hehehe!" It's quite comical how the sunlight keeps specifically aiming at his face through the tent holes.
"Is nature against me today or what?" He complained as he scooted over to a spot where he won't get his retinas fried. "That's better. You can start now, Zhao Yun." He still looked somewhat exasperated which didn't help with my amused grin.
"So..." I began as I carefully removed the sling. "Any visits from your chief friend today?"
"Yes, actually. While you were sleeping in your tent like a dead horse, he did stop by earlier." He said. "You will never believe what he just told me."
"Oh? Do tell." Remember the drill, Z. Play dumb!
"He said he spotted the Guardian Angel again last night. He discovered it only appears around dawn and, sure enough, he found it outside the window by the well." I hummed in acknowledgement as I cut down the old bandages. "Strangely enough, it didn't leave immediately like it always does. It walked around for a bit and even went to examine the deer remains from the previous nights."
"What did you think it wanted? You think it got curious?" As I was cleaning the wound with a wet cloth, I asked or better yet pretended to be just as clueless. I didn't even miss how they refer to the Guardian Angel as 'it', not a 'he' or even 'they', as if they actually consider it a supernatural being and not a human. Little did they know, the Guardian Angel is pretty much a 'he', and he's currently chilling in the tent with my lord. Oops, forget I said anything!
"Could be checking the surroundings. Might even be checking the progress from earlier and see if the villagers actually made use of the offerings." Bingo! That's exactly what I had - excuse me, what the Guardian had in mind. What can I say? My lord is a smart man! "Furthermore - Ah! Easy, Zhao Yun!"
"Sorry, my lord. I'm almost done."
"As I was saying, the chief said that the Angel started to... 'up its game'." I froze halfway through tying up the clean bandages. Up its what now? I don't remember doing anything of the sort. "The people saw a hole in the deer's head. Not slaughtered or suffocated like before. As if it was shot by an arrow." Ah, so that's what it was - I mean, I know nothing!
"An arrow?"
"Who knows how it was able to acquire a bow and the arrows. But it's easy to assume that the Angel is good with weapons. Such a headshot requires a high level of skill and accuracy. It's actually quite impressive!"
Thank you, lord! I barely held my tongue from blurting out the statement of gratitude for the praise unintentionally directed at me. Even if I have a soft spot for my lord's opinions, I can't say anything that would blow my cover!
"Indeed. Who knows what else the Angel might be capable of." I pretended to ponder it as I was almost done applying the bandages.
"We might find out actually. The chief seemed adamant on uncovering the Angel's identity; said that he's going to get down to the bottom of it." My mind went numb with concern as I was hanging the sling around his arm.
Get down to the bottom of it?
I don't like the sound of that...
"Thank you for coming, everyone." Addressed Master Liu Bei the crowd of recently arrived soldiers fresh from Shu. Us three generals stood next to him to welcome the new arrivals; A battalion of highly trained men and women from our kingdom sure is a sight to boost the morale. "Your presence is a reassurance to the future of this expedition. I expect you to perform your duties to the fullest. Please make yourselves comfortable in the camp and help yourselves to the resources. Dismissed."
And just like that everyone dispersed to do their own thing. Once they get properly settled down, Lord Liu Bei went to instruct the recently arrived squad leaders on the new system and to brief them on the details unfolded during the meeting. While me and the Lord Guan Yu went to spar with the new comers to heat things up for them. By then the hunting party has finally arrived bringing with them fresh kills. At the lead, walked Lord Zhang Fei grinning proudly with a deer hanging on his shoulder. The team behind him dragged their heavy kills with them. Some even held rabbits from their ears. Others carried fruit bags. Definitely enough food to compensate for yesterday's losses.
Even though it was a busy day. It was quite uneventful yet fruitful (pun intended?). Despite the camp being in less than ideal state after the fateful raid, it became livelier than ever. New reinforcements have arrived. Loot has been replenished. Security tightened around camp. The perfect circumstances prepared for any nasty
moves from Wu.
Around night time, things have eventually calmed down. The hunted animals were being roasted on firespits. Fruit and mushroom filled the plates. Soldiers were laughing and drinking. Among the merry gathering, I took my usual spot by the central campfire with my lord and fellow generals. They exchanged small talk as we had our dinner. Personally, I don't think I would have participated much in the conversation anyway. I'm still hung up over the chief's words. Thinking about what he's planning to do as I took a swig from my beer.
Getting down to the bottom of it, huh?
I won't lie. This has me kind of concerned.
That didn't stop me from carrying on though. Operation Village Rescue is still pretty much among my plans. Which is why you see me walking through the forest at the ass crack of dawn, wearing the poncho and all, holding the bow to which an arrow is readily nocked.
"Eeehhhh..." I yawned. It was a long day and it only ended later than I had hoped for. I was forced to get up early this morning, had a busy day, only to get a few hours of rest. I seriously wanted to postpone the hunt for tonight so I could get all the sleep I need then get back to work next night but... I couldn't. Just because I fed the villagers a few times, doesn't mean it would sustain them long enough to last a complete day without food again. I can do this. I'll just get them something to eat then go back to camp. I don't think we have work tomorrow so I guess it's safe to sleep in this time.
I slowed down and switched to a stalking gait when I heard rustling nearby. I carefully approached the source of the noise and spotted a bunny. The moment I raised my arm with the arrow pointing at it and it ran off. I hurried after it, not taking my eyes off of my target lest I lose sight of it. When it stopped again, it had its back turned to me. Slowly yet steady, I aimed then released.
"Finally..." I breathed as I approached the small kill with the arrow jutting out of it. This little thing is far from enough to feed an entire village but I take what I can get.
After retrieving the arrow, I hung the rabbit around my waist by its ears using a rope. Then moved to find something else to hunt. I yawned again. I need to get this over with soon. I'm barely functional as is. A few minutes of wandering around, I spotted a deer. Ok, I have to make this one count. If that thing ran off, I don't think I'll be able to chase after it in my sleep deprivated state.
Mercifully, the hunt went smoothly. With the deer fallen on the ground with the arrow penetrating its head, I collected some berries. I wasn't in the mood to pick up apples from the trees or cut off mushrooms. Hopefully I can do that next time when my headache isn't nagging at me.
I was power walking as I took the items with me. Eager to finish the job then get back to my comfy cot. Thus, it wasn't long before I reached the village border. I almost didn't want to go through the trouble of checking the area and just dump everything by the well then leave. But what Lord Liu Bei told me earlier stopped me in my tracks.
The chief seemed adamant on uncovering the Angel's identity; said that he's going to get down to the bottom of it.
I hesitated. What's that man planning to do? Surely not something that might hurt me. I bring food to his village after all. But you know what? I'm too damn tired to care right now. I'll just bring everything to the well and hightail it out of here as fast as possible. Hoping that whatever the chief is planning, he wouldn't have time to execute it.
With that in mind, I dragged the deer with the bag of berries hanging from its antlers next to the well. So far so good. I hurriedly untied the bunny from around my waist and let it drop next to the bigger animal. Now time to -
"!" I felt someone jumping on my back with their arms around my neck. Followed by two more holding my arms from both sides. A woman approached me from the front, obviously in an attempt to uncover my face, but I kicked her away earning a yelp from her. At this moment, a few more villagers emerged to the scene.
"There it is!"
"We got 'em!"
"Hold it still!"
"Chief! Come on over! We got the Guardian Angel!" Yelled one of my captors.
"Man, this thing is freaking me out!" Said the other one.
The man in question came over with slow yet determined steps. So this is what he has been planning all along? That's what he meant by 'getting down to the bottom of it'? A fucking ambush?!
And I fell right for it.
"Hold it steady." The chief commanded. "At ease, Guardian. We mean no harm. We just want some answers."
"..." I stayed quiet. I still have every intention to keep my identity hidden. My voice included. Chances are it might get recognised at a later encounter. That is, if my identity remains intact by the end of the night. Those folk are not fooling around. When I moved a little, I could feel my captors arms tense up around me keeping me in a tighter grip. I could feel that they have become a bit stronger. They really have been eating well, huh? Well, you're welcome.
"First off, allow me to thank you on behalf of the village. We were on the brink of starvation until you showed up. I only have one question: who are you?"
"..."
"Who or what are you?"
"..."
"Are you willing to talk?"
"..."
"Please. Just give us a name. Are you even a human or something else?"
"..."
"I'll ask again: who are you?"
"..."
"Can you speak?"
"..."
"Can you understand my words?"
"..."
I nodded.
"Ah, good good. So please tell me, why are you helping us?"
"..."
"Guardian, please. Give me a sign. Anything that would explain this whole mess."
"..."
"If you don't cooperate, I'll have no choice but to choose the hard way."
"..."
"..."
"..."
"Last chance! Are you going to answer my question?"
I shaked my head.
"Remove the hood!" At that command, I headbutted the guy behind me releasing his grip from around my neck before forcing my arms forward bringing the other two captors together in a painful collision. A man tried to jump me but I kicked him away. A woman tried to hold me from behind and I elbowed her. Once they're all off my back, I bailed.
I didn't run very far though once I realised they weren't chasing after me. I stopped for a moment to see if anyone's coming but when no one did, I went back to the village again. Before you say 'what the hell are you thinking!' there's one last thing I'll leave them before getting out of here. I could hear the villagers' yells getting louder as I got closer.
"The Guardian Angel is gone!"
"It was strong though! It managed to break free from three people!"
"It kicked everyone else's ass! Just what the hell is that creature?"
"That thing can't be taken down!"
"It's creepy as hell! Have you seen those eyes?"
"Maybe it's not angel! It's a demon!"
"Demons don't help people, you idiot!"
"Enough!" The last one is from the chief who knelt down to examine the quarry I left them before standing up. "The deer. The bag of fruit. Even a rabbit too."
"But the bag of gold is missing!" Exclaimed a young male villager. "We started the ambush way too early!"
Bag of gold coming right up!
I moved my arm back holding the little sac before tossing it at them.
Smack!
"Ouch!"
Oops!
"Hey, it's the bag of gold! The Guardian responded!" Pointed a woman to the bag.
"Must it really hit my head though?" Complained the man rubbing where the bag had hit him. I wanted to yell 'sorry!' but obviously, I kept my mouth shut even after nearly giving the poor man a concussion. I blame the lack of sleep. An issue I will definitely take care of.
As I turned around and began walking away, I heard the chief yelling. "Guardian Angel, we may not know who or what you are, but your efforts are appreciated."
"Thank you, Guardian Angel!" The villagers too chimed in with exclamations of gratitude.
Yeah, any time.
"WAKE THE SHIT UP!" That was the rude as hell wake-up shriek I received from Zhang Fei a few hours after falling asleep. "Bandits are coming this way! Hurry! Guan Yu
went to intercept them!"
Sweet Lord, have mercy on me!
As the new system requires it, Zhang Fei stays to guard the camp while I go with Guan Yu to war. And thus, I dragged my miserable sleep-hungry ass out of the tent donning my armor and wielding my spear. I galloped off towards the direction I was pointed to taking a few soldiers with me. Time to let those bandits know that cutting off my peaceful sleep can ensue serious consequences. A sleep deprived Zhao Yun is a dangerous Zhao Yun!
Unlike the last ones, those guys are well equipped. Like that would make a difference. I'll still wipe out those assholes anyway and the sooner I do that, the better.
"Zhao Yun! Glad you came!" Exclaimed Lord Guan Yu when I jumped off my horse to impale the guy who was about to hit him with a sword.
"Let's get this over with." I said impatiently.
"Um, Zhao Yun? What's wrong with you?" Asked Lord Guan Yu as he deflected a bandit's hit before slicing his head off.
"Peachy." I growled before brutally slicing off a bandit's limps, beheaded one, stabbed another. I kept on this path of massacre thining down the bandits numbers in a short time. Easily deflecting their weapons and penetrating their armor. There weren't much of them to begin with so thankfully, the field has already been littered by their bodies as soon as I had hoped for. I turned around to find Guan Yu staring at me in disbelief. His spear and armor covered in little blood from his own handiwork (his beard is still perfectly spotless though. what the hell...) I suppose he noticed my shift in mood but I'll be fine once I get enough sleep.
Right?
WRONG!
When I returned to the village with Lord Guan Yu, we received the usual visit from the chief who wasted no time going crazy on us. "I HAVE SPOKEN WITH THE GUARDIAN ANGEL!" Yelled the chief as if he just won the lottery.
Good for you. I thought bitterly as I took a sip from the tea while secretly giving the chief the stink eye. I was too damn tired and grumpy that I asked Lord Zhang Fei to prepare it for us on my behalf on the usual firepit we're currently seated around. I wanted to excuse myself and go to the damn tent already but Lord Liu Bei told me it's rude while we have a guest. Oh, come on!
" *Cough cough* Really, now?" Exclaimed Lord Liu Bei, almost spitting his tea. "How did it go? Who was it?"
"The bloody thing refused to speak! Just as we almost had it, it ran away!" The chief almost spilled his tea in his excitement. And so he told everyone what had transpired last night. Even the passing soldiers stood nearby to listen. I'm probably the only one who isn't drooling with a starry-eyed look on his face.
"Interesting. It's like that thing doesn't want to be discovered." Pondered my lord. "I wish I could help you with solving the mystery. But I have been tight on schedule lately especially after we almost lost our camp yesterday."
"That's understandable, Master Liu Bei. I know what it feels like to lead and -" Bla bla bla. I tuned out the conversation because I don't have the energy to give a shit. Only when I heard what Master Liu Bei said next did I actually give a shit.
"Listen, I have been analyzing what you told me about the Guardian Angel so far and I think I'm starting to form a general idea as to who it might be." Eh? "Now I haven't an inkling about the Guardian's identity-" Phew."-but I have been keeping taps on all the info you have been providing me with so far and learned a thing or two about it. If we want to uncover the mystery, we could work on it together."
"In that case, I'll keep an eye out on the Guardian and tell you what I saw." Stated the chief.
"And I will see if I can make something out of it." Added my lord.
What's worse than one guy trying to ruin my plans? Two guys! Honestly, this is bad. Really bad. I can handle the chief just fine but I'm not so sure about Lord Liu Bei. He's a smart man, after all. Try as I might, it might be a matter of time before he puts two and two together. Until then, I'll keep going and hope the village is well fed by the time he eventually finds out if he ever man left for his village after settling upon an agreement with my lord regarding their little case. I guess this means I can finally get back to sleep, right?
Well, THINK AGAIN!
A scout showed up with a report regarding another Wu camp and I need to be there with Lord Guan Yu.
Fantastic. Just fantastic.
I rode off with the others to the enemy camp and hope the adrenaline keeps me awake. When we got there, the Wu forces seemed to be ready for us. I guess after the war, they've been placed on higher alert than ever. Just like we did.
We clashed with the opposing kingdom officers. The battlefield was filled to the brim with blood, dust, screams, weapon clanging and flying limps. Me, Lord Guan Yu and the other Shu officers fought with ferocity against the Wu officers who fought back with the same level of aggression. Neither side was willing to back down until nobody's left standing. However, the Wu forces seemed to be especially ruthless this time. As if they're trying to make sure to win at any cost - as if they're trying to avenge the previous losses. We realized we won't be able to hold out much longer at this rate. If we stick around, we will suffer a terrible loss.
"Zhao Yun! This isn't looking too well for us! We must retreat!" Yelled Lord Guan Yu as he attempted to deflect five soldiers at once.
"Couldn't agree more." I said as I helped him push them off. We both bolted on the horses with the company of the officers we have left. Amazingly, lots of them survived, though not without some injuries. And while we haven't won, we did some pretty decent damage to the camp which is better than nothing I guess. I looked behind me at the half destroyed camp as it got smaller the further away we got. I felt bad for retreating from the battlefield like that. But it's still a fact that staying and fighting would have done more harm than good.
We have done what we could. It seems that victory won't be by our side Lord Guan Yu was reporting the loss to a concerned yet understanding Lord Liu Bei, I began
making my way back to tent. Now is as good a time as any to finally get some sleep, right?
Welp, the answer is a glorious No!
I was swarmed by a few soldiers asking for a spar. I guess they have been intimated by the loss we had suffered earlier and so needed to make sure to strengthen themselves up for a better performance in the battlefield. I almost asked Lord Guan Yu to train them instead but he is too busy speaking to Lord Liu Bei. And Lord Zhang Fei is napping in his tent. Oh, that lucky son of a-
Anyway, I couldn't help but comply. They prepared their weapons then came at me. Sometimes I would go one-on-one. Sometimes I'd fight against two. Five, even. I must say, they have improved a lot. Despite how tired I am, I'm glad that didn't stop me from helping those guys get the practice they need.
By the time we're done, my body was bitching at me so much that I knew I wouldn't be able to get myself to relax. My back hurts and my head is killing me. The adrenaline rush from the earlier spar is still in my system. I figured some tea would help calm me down so I went to the central campfire to prepare some for me.
"You look like crap." Was the first thing Lord Zhang Fei kindly pointed out as he sat to join me, soon followed by Lord Liu Bei and Guan Yu.
"You look a bit pale, Zhao Yun. Are you alright?" Asked Lord Liu Bei. His eyebrows furrowed in concern.
"M'fine. Just haven't been able to sleep well." I said before inhaling a much needed spoonful of tea.
"That explains the bags under your eyes." Mumbled Lord Guan Yu. That bad, huh? Thing is, if I slept now, I wouldn't be able to sleep at night. Despite my fatigue, I don't want to mess up my sleeping schedule more than it already is. Well, if I can't sleep then might as well refrain from exerting myself. Lord Liu Bei, bless his heart, told me I'm excused for the rest of the day. I haven't done much. Just wonder around the camp. Visit the nearby forest. Or just sit in the tent and stare at the wall. And while I haven't been able to rest properly, I felt slightly better by the time night rolled around. I didn't even stick around for dinner. I went straight to the tent so I can finally die temporarily in peace.
Rabbit successfully hunted. I went over to remove the arrow from its body before hanging the kill around my waist. I adjusted my goggles before going to look for another one, collecting any berries, apples or mushrooms I find on the way. Tonight, I'll just focus on rabbits and fruit. Not bothering with a deer this time. Even if I took down one down, I'm still not feeling well enough to drag it back to the village. I'm simply mad exhausted. The sleep I got before I woke up for the nightly job was far from enough. God knows I wanted to sleep earlier than that but I haven't been able to actually rest until midnight.
I know the right decision is to stay my ass at my tent and never get the fuck out until I'm well rested but... I couldn't. I can't imagine the villager's disappointment when they wake up to find the spot next to the well empty. When I remembered how they all expressed their thanks in a heartfelt chorus, I knew I couldn't let them down. I just hope they don't pull another ambush because, let's be real, I don't think I have enough strength to fight back.
I made my way to the well. By then, I have captured five rabbits and stuffed two bags with the fruit and mushroom. I tossed the money next to the items before hurrying back to camp. No one jumping me this time. Because this seriously would be the last thing I need.
the next couple days were medieval level of torture. Too much work and too little time to get the shut-eye I have been craving. Between the raids, spars, reports, meetings and village quests, it's like sleep turned into a federal crime.
As such, my performance has severely been affected. I would get back from a raid sweating and panting, practically hyperventilating, earning me concerned looks from Guan Yu and the others. I would end spars too early. I would excuse myself from meetings shortly after they start. All I leave by the village well is just the bag of fruits and mushroom and the money. I can't hunt anymore. My arms wouldn't stop shaking when I try aiming with the bow. Even the blasted rabbit didn't bother running off!
It got so bad that Zhang Fei told me I look like a zombie. I guess I wouldn't have if I had stayed one night away from the damn village and just rested. I know I will dearly regret my stubbornness. But I can't stop myself. I just can't. The village's survival relies on me and I can't afford to let them down, not even for a single night. And I can't ask for a break during the day. We have too much work and I can't slack off. Master Liu Bei became more alert than ever after our failed raid on the Wu camp last time. The last thing he needs right now is me walking up to him and be like 'my lord, I feel like shit. can I be excused for the rest of my life?'. I know he'd hate to overwork any of us halfway to death. But the man is under enough stress and I don't want to be one of the causes behind it.
My condition became so severe, I couldn't hide it anymore. The entire camp knew I haven't been feeling well. I even went to the nearby forest to wash my face in the river and have some fresh air. But my attempts at de-zombifying myself did jackshit. I became moody and irritable but never had the energy to snap. That's right. I'm too weak to get angry. I'm even too weak to keep myself steady.
"Um, Zhao Yun. Why are your hands shaking?" Was the question I received from Master Liu Bei one time as I was showing him a report paper I was carrying.
"Hey, boy. Eeehh, you got soap on your eyes?" That was the impression Lord Zhang Fei had when he saw my bloodshot eyes.
"..." Lord Guan Yu is simply too stunned to comment.
Even the other fellow soldiers acted as if I might explode at any minute. They voiced their concerns; asking me if I'm alright. Told me I should get some rest. Rest? What the hell does that word even mean?
"Zhao Yun, what's wrong with you?" Asked Lord Liu Bei as we're having breakfast by the firepit. Well, technically they did. I didn't touch my food. I was just too damn tired to even chew. I don't think I have been eating properly either with all this exhaustion.
"Ummm... You don't.. look so good." You know it's serious when even Zhang Fei started feeling sorry for me instead of laughing at my misery as is his cute habit. Even Guan Yu looks wide-eyed with terror at my condition.
"..." I could barely find my voice. I think I forgot how to speak. It's a miracle I still remember how to breathe.
"Are you feeling sick, Zhao Yun?" Asked Lord Liu Bei.
"..." I wanted to answer. I really did. I can't. But I could barely left my head feeling like it weighs three tons.
"This is bad, Brother. He's been looking off recently." Remarked Guan Yu, alarm lacing his voice.
"Get up, Zhao Yun. Get some rest in your tent." Said Lord Liu Bei as he patted my back. When I gave zero response, he gently held my hand and helped me to my feet -
Oh...
Oh, no!
Instead of letting him escort me back to my tent, I hurriedly dragged myself to the nearest tree, ignoring his concerned protests, and began coughing and gagging. I leaned against the tree with one hand while holding my stomach with the other, panting and throwing up what little contents my stomach had. My lord, the generals and half the camp were on me.
"Easy, Zhao Yun. It's okay! Let it out!" Cooed my lord as he gently ran his hand over my head.
"Ehgh.. " I groaned, followed by more hacking and dry heaving.
"Boy, what's happening to you..." Mumbled Lord Zhang Fei. Lord Guan Yu is outright speechless.
Just when I thought I was going to puke out an organ, I was done. I took a few deep shaky breaths before turning around to my lord who quickly held my hand and turned to the others. "Everyone, back to your posts. Nothing to see here. General Zhao Yun is a feeling a little tired. The situation shall be taken care off immediately." Reluctantly, the soldiers obeyed and backed off. Lord Guan Yu and Zhang Fei are the only ones who stood still as I began stumbling besides my lord on the way to the tent. Halfway there, I didn't want to walk anymore. I released myself from his grip and put an unsteady hand to my face, shaking and breathing raggedly. The phrase 'I'm not feeling so good' has been taken to a whole new level.
"Hey, hey. What's the matter? Feeling sick again?" Said my lord as he began rubbing my arm. "What exactly is it are you feeling? Tell me." I can answer that question with only one word:
Devastated.
Utterly devastated.
At this moment, I felt like my heart is going to give out. I'm still feeling weird and nauseous. My limbs are numb and tingly. My head is fuzzy. And if it's still bright and sunny, then why can't I see anything?
"ZHAO YUN!" I barely registered my lord's terrified scream. In fact, I couldn't register anything at all.
I could barely feel my body as it hit the ground.
I could barely see the horrified faces around me from among the black spots darkening my vision.
I could barely hear the alarmed yells from among the ringing in my ear.
"... Medic...!"
".. wate...now!"
"... carry... tent!"
"... Ple... Zh... un..."
"Op... eyes!"
"..."
...
...
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