I thought I'll post this in the Writing Forum. It's one of my works in ff.net. So this shall be put to test. You don't have to read the original to read the sequel. The sequel takes a different direction as each DW female has an arc that describe their lives with the men they were paired. Some of these pairings are the most standard in the DW fanfiction community. While Sun Shang Xiang and Zhen Ji have 4 chapters with their arcs. I'm using both historical/novel and DW portrayals of the characters. Made a few editings, btw. No pairing flames please. Respect the pairings in peace. Also, I'm not that great compare to other great DW fanfic writers out there.

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Romance of the DW Pairings 2

Chapter 1: Lu Bu and Diao Chan


Having conquer Jiao Zhou from the Shi clan, Lu Bu recover his military strength quickly by absorbing the shanyue tribes and Shi Xie’s troops. He can finally go to war whenever the opportunity presents him. However, losing Xu Zhou to Cao Cao and Liu Bei taught him the most important aspect in war. Officer compatibility is very important, but of course Gao Shun is his closes friend and high ranked general, Chen Gong having a lot of criticism on his crafty mind, he’s still Lu Bu’s strategist and advisor of military and domestic affairs, and his daughter Lu Ling Qi who probably needs to get a husband now.

“Father! Father, the Nanman barbarians are crossing the border to Jiao Zhi!” Ling Qi rushed to the palace with excitement.

Lu Bu did not respond, but he’s been quiet the entire moment in the palace thinking about nothing, but “her”.

“Father…” Ling Qi tone turned soft.

“Hm? Sorry, Ling Qi, what’s the matter?” Lu Bu looked up at his daughter worried.

“The Nanmans are coming to invade Jiao. Master Chen Gong told me to inform you this,” Ling Qi said.

“If it’s gold that Meng Huo wants, then give him it and I will like to form an alliance,” Lu Bu sighed.

“He’s coming with an army of 120,000,” Ling Qi shrugged.

“He’s serious? I expect more from that so-called “king”. He’s not worth my time right now,” Lu Bu chuckled.

“Of course it’s serious father, he dares to challenge your might! It’s quite asinine that such an uncivilized….” Ling Qi urged, but Lu Bu interrupt her before she finish.

“One who is strong does not make that person uncivilized, Ling Qi. You shouldn’t underestimate the barbarians. They’re the ones who conquer the most incompetent powers,” Lu Bu lectured.

“What does that make us to them?” Ling Qi asked.

“Equal…” Lu Bu answered.

“Equal? There’s nobody from Nan zhong that can compare to me,” Ling Qi scoffed.

Lu Bu raises an eyebrow staring at his daughter priceless. When did his daughter become this impulsive? Wouldn’t her attitude be better off calm and calculating?

“So, you wish to fight them? Be careful what you wish for, my daughter. Prepare the army,” Lu Bu assigned.

Lu Ling Qi bowed and dismiss. It’s been a while since he had work himself up at the central plains. But, why start a war when he should built up diploma tics and expand?

“She’s growing to be like you everyday. No wonder, you and her are alike?” a familiar voice spoke.

“Yes. I must pity myself for raising her without you…” Lu Bu closed his eyes as he spoke to the spirit of his beloved.

“Don’t speak like that. Remember what I told you before?” the voice is no secret as Diao Chan holds her arms into Lu Bu.

“Is she really…?” Lu Bu quietly assumed.

“Yes…” Diao Chan laid her head on Lu Bu’s back.

“Diao Chan….” Lu Bu muttered.

“Will you fight for those precious to you, my love?” Diao Chan asked.

“I will and I must,” Lu Bu considered.

“Then, go and watch over Ling Qi. Remind her of myself everyday,” Diao Chan stepped back letting go of Lu Bu.

“Diao Chan, I missed you a lot,” Lu Bu grieved from the lost of his precious Diao Chan.

Lu Bu opens his eyes and turn around where he felt Diao Chan. Her spirit vanishes leaving no trace within the court. Still those warm arms and her body felt real.

“So, the beauty finds the beast civilized,” Lu Bu whispered as he takes his Crescent Halberd and prepares to walk out the hall, “In that case, I’ll accept Meng Huo’s challenge.”

Outside the castle gates…

Chen Gong is protesting Ling Qi for deciding to challenge the self proclaimed “Goddess of Fire”, Zhu Rong because of how strong she is.

Lu Bu arrives walking towards Gao Shun who is commanding the force. He can see his daughter on fire eager to face the invading army. At the front lines, he sees a woman coming it’s way towards his daughter. He suspects they’re challenging a duel.

“Gao Shun, report,” Lu Bu stood in front of his loyal officer.

“Lord Lu Bu, your daughter been granted as van and she accepts that woman’s challenge in a duel. Never I thought these barbarians have a combination of female troops with male ones,” Gao Shun reported.

“Interesting,” Lu Bu rubbed his chin.

“My lord, I beg you to stop the fight. She’s no match for that woman and I heard a lot about her from our spies,” Chen Gong said.

“Why, it’s only getting a lot interesting here,” Lu Bu sighed.

“But, then your daughter might possibly lose and die,” Chen Gong urged.

“Are these Nanmans as strong as Shi Xie’s army?” Gao Shun questioned.

“They’re heavily attributed to heat climate and their infantries are strong at forests and plains. They got some light armor made of honeycomb wood. The elephants are more used as a military cavalry than envoy transportation,” Chen Gong revealed.

“Attributed to heat climate? They’re immune to the heat?! Very interesting, it appears this terrain shall soon be another grasp to my conquest, but first I want the whole tribute and their so called “king” to bow to my might,” Lu Bu pointed his weapon directly at the enemy.

“Their army is larger than ours, we’ve just took this province since losing Xia Pi,” Gao Shun said.

Lu Bu continue watching his daughter fight Zhu Rong. The latter is winning before she is about to deal the finishing blow; Lu Bu kicked his Red Hare and storm towards the center of the battlefield.

“I don’t like killing underage, but you did gave me a whole lot of trouble judging from the way you fight. You’re a fool to underestimate me because I’m a barbarian!” Zhu Rong raises her spear while her trademark weapon is on the back of her. Lu Bu comes at the nick of time and parried her strike.

“Enough!” Lu Bu shouted.

Zhu Rong stood awe of Lu Bu’s appearance. Like she never have seen before, especially those two things on his head.

“Fight those who are precious to you,” Diao Chan’s voice ring through Lu Bu’s thoughts.

“You fought well. I will like to speak to your “king” about an alliance or join my army so that together we fight to unite the land,” Lu Bu requested.

Zhu Rong said nothing and nodded, but she almost panicked because how this man didn’t make another move besides stopping her from killing his daughter.

“This feeling, but how?” she thought as Zhu Rong head to inform her husband.

Lu Bu turns to check on Ling Qi’s condition. She’s beaten up, but lucky for the big daddy making it in time. She barely has any skill left to avoid a fatal blow. She got overconfident because of his teachings.

“Well, you surprise me out there, Ling Qi. Next time, you’ll match her might,” Lu Bu said.

“Father, I’m sorry to disappoint you,” Ling Qi struggled herself up.

“No, that was entertaining,” Lu Bu smiled.

“Really?” Ling Qi winced.

“Yeah, you brought some really good shots at her, but in the end she’s the stronger, better, and hotter fighter,” Lu Bu commented.

“You mean, she’s more beautiful than mother,” Ling Qi said sarcastically.

“There’s beauty in every living, it’s what makes us strong,” Lu Bu said.

“I don’t want to go back to wearing formal clothes and get all those guys eating me up for a marriage,” Ling Qi complained.

“There’s nothing wrong wearing them, but I won’t force you to get married,” Lu Bu chuckled.

Ling Qi gets back on her horse and retreated to the main army. Lu Bu followed while waiting for Meng Huo’s decision.

“I did say that woman is hotter than my daughter, but Diao Chan is hotter than her,” Lu Bu thought. Turning back, he still can’t see Diao Chan’s spirit anywhere, however that won’t stop him from ever thinking about her.

Next Chapter: Zhang Liao and Diao Chan

Chapter 2: Zhang Liao and Diao Chan


He submits his loyalty to Cao Cao. Zhang Liao, who is one amongst Cao Cao’s great generals, prepares to march his army to Ru Xu Kou. Behind him is his son Zhang Hu joining up with his sworn brother Yue Chen, son of Yue Jin. Strange, they’re all that’s left to represent him his might. Had he joined back with Lu Bu, the good times shall retrieve.

“I’m Zhang Liao! Wu scum, fear me! ”Zhang Hu imitated.

Zhang Liao can hear his son pretending to be like him. He makes a cheesy smile and of course his fame has spread here in Huai Nan after that near impossible stunt at He Fei, none shall forget. Those were the memories, but there’s one memory he can’t take away, the love of Diao Chan.

Flashback…
A group of people journey to the far south. Zhang Liao and Diao Chan rode really close to each other while Lu Bu and the rest are in front of them. The unhappy Lu Bu army suffers betrayal, defeat, and humiliation. Lu Bu put all the blame on himself leaving aside the remaining people whom he consider his real friends.

Zhang Liao looks at Diao Chan showing a sad face. She could never be happy because the day she joined Lu Bu and betrayed Dong Zhuo was the day she and Lu Bu brought chaos to the entire land without a securable order after Li Jue retake the capital.

“Do I not belong to this group anymore? They were my only friends, but I deserve better,” Zhang Liao thought.

What should he do? Stay with them or leave and pursuit better opportunities for himself? Once he leaves, he’ll never see them again. He’ll never see Diao Chan again. He stops his horse leaving the rest to mount away from him. Diao Chan is the first to notice Zhang Liao stopping as she turns around and talks to him.

“Diao Chan, leave me…” Zhang Liao said.

“But…” before Diao Chan can conform him, Zhang Liao halted her.

“Now!” Zhang Liao snapped.

Lu Bu’s army all halted and turns their attention to Zhang Liao. Zhang Liao change of attitude confuse many of them wondering what’s going on.

“Lu Bu, allow myself retired from your service. I’m leaving,” Zhang Liao announced.

“And where will you go traitor!” Gao Shun is now pissed off.

“Forgive me, Gao Shun…” Zhang Liao thought.

“It’s Cao Cao isn’t it,” Chen Gong sighed.

“Why?” Diao Chan asked.

“…..” Zhang Liao prepares to set his journey back to the Central Plains.

“Why are you leaving me alone?” Diao Chan gasped.

“Diao Chan, I have my own path to follow. But, remember this, you are not alone,” Zhang Liao said turning his eyes towards Diao Chan’s face shearing small tears.

Deep inside, he loved her, but his destiny is calling him at the Central Plains. Hopefully, she’ll share that love to Lu Bu when he’s gone. He knows he’ll never see her again.

“Zhang Liao, what 30 silver pieces of gold did Cao Cao own you!” Gao Shun shouted.

Zhang Liao rides faster out of here leaving Gao Shun’s question unanswered.

“That…he’s not getting out of here alive!” Gao Shun prepares to charge after his long time comrade, but Lu Bu stops him.

“Leave him be, Gao Shun,” Lu Bu commanded.

“Damn it, he’s our best friend!” Gao Shun whimpered.

Diao Chan continues crying, it’s like losing ones arm.

“Cao Cao surely has broken many ties within our force. I can’t believe he could be that deceptive, if he continues to control the emperor like this….” Chen Gong cut short as Lu Bu went to Diao Chan’s side and comforts her.

Flashback ends….

“Yes, that was when I ran my big mouth in front of the most beautiful woman I’ve met,” Zhang Liao muttered. His son can hear him talking to himself.

“What’s wrong father?” Zhang Hu concerned.

“It’s nothing, call me crazy Hu,” Zhang Liao joked.

“Seriously father, you weren’t acting like yourself back then. There must be something bothering you. Sure, we continue fighting the campy Wu family everyday till they submit to our might, but it never bores me to do this everyday. I love fighting along side my great father,” Zhang Hu said.

“Then about another great person you haven’t talked about?” Zhang Liao grinned.

“What other great person besides you and Cao Cao?” Yue Chen asked.

“I’ll tell you a story about Diao Chan and how she saves us from the tyranny of Dong Zhuo,” Zhang Liao presented.

Zhang Hu and Yue Chen exchange puzzled looks. Someone they never heard of as history didn’t record it and only one man knows the story of Diao Chan.

“So, Zhang Liao is not alone either,” Diao Chan spoke as she watch those three leaving.

Next Chapter: Meng Huo and Zhu Rong

Chapter 3: Meng Huo and Zhu Rong


After what happened between Zhu Rong and Lu Ling Qi, the Goddess of Fire returns to her husband and report it.

“If what happened to Shi Xie is true, then this Lu Bu guy must be really powerful, but we won’t falter,” Meng Huo said.

“Great King, Lu Bu is nothing, but a inconsistent ruler. His own men betrayed him when I heard from a Northerner about his defeat at the hands of Cao Cao. He betrays too many allies,” Dailai Dongzhu said.

“Who were his allies?” Meng Huo questioned.

“From what we learn by Northerners, he betrayed Ding Yuan who is presume his adopted father, later betrayed the whole nation when joining Dong Zhuo, but soon betrayed Dong Zhuo too, then he betrayed Liu Bei by consuming his allegiance with Yuan Shu, then betrayed Yuan Shu and finally betrayed by his own men whom he treated them poorly,” Dailai Dongzhu answered.

“He betrayed all of them and yet recovers by taking over Jiao? Hmm, it’s possible that we can beat this guy by getting his own men to betray him again,” Meng Huo smirked.

“I also must inform you he’s the strongest man in the north….” Meng Huo’s advisor made his King glare at him in the eye.

“The “strongest” you say? That’s ludicrous!” Meng Huo laughed out loud.

“Um, your majesty, it’s true as the Northerners stated,” Dailai Dongzhu considered.

“Bah, I don’t care what they say. I disagree and having conquer most of Nan Zhong and made the tribe kings submit to me; I declare myself the strongest! At least, all my men are loyal to me and I make good relations with everyone as one big happy family,” Meng Huo triumphed.

But, unfortunately his men are outside ready to prepare for the upcoming battling while only his advisor is with him inside the built up hut.

“My king, Zhu Rong has return,” a soldier reported.

“Ah, my wife is here,” Meng Huo awaits his wife’s report.

“Meng Huo, I’ve met that man who appears to be Lu Bu after I fought his daughter in a duel,” Zhu Rong reported.

“His daughter? So, this Lu Bu does have a family too,” Meng Huo impressed.

“Lu Bu is offering you an alliance between our two forces,” Zhu Rong said.

“What?! Now he’s wanting to stab me in the back like all those other allies he once betrayed!” Meng Huo enraged.

“When I saw his eyes, he looks different from what we learned by the Northerners. I can’t get my eyes off him. It’s like, he’s changed…” Zhu Rong confessed.

“You too, baby?! What do you see in this Lu Bu that compare to me?” Meng Huo asked.

“He’s everything it says from the Northerners. He’s frighten, fearless, bold, handsome, and chivalrious,” Zhu Rong admitted.

“You know what, Dailai Dongzhu? This Lu Bu is pissing me off,” Meng Huo takes his gauntlets and ruse his army.

“My husband, you can’t win. Lu Bu is stronger than what he appears to be,” Zhu Rong said.

“And he’s still a distrusting ogre looking to rob our land! I can’t believe you find a liking to someone like him! What does that make me? Inferior!?” Meng Huo scorned.

“He’s different now!” Zhu Rong objected.

“Still doesn’t change my opinion about him. I’ll never forgive that rabid dog left by the Northerners,” Meng Huo said.

“But, if you lose, not only you’ll lose this land, but you’ll lose me, our life, and everything,” Zhu Rong warned.

“I haven’t met the man in person and I shall find out,” Meng Huo kicked his horse and rode out with his main army.

“Sister, what’s troubling with you between the king and that man?” Dailai Dongzhu turn his attention to Zhu Rong after the main army left.

“He is just like Lu Bu when we first got together,” Zhu Rong sighed.

“You’re right…he originally act full of himself and fought the best in this region. I’m happy for you to be married to such a man and now he’s about to face Lu Bu whom share the same path as our king,” Dailai Dongzhu nodded.

“Come on, we must watch what happens out there,” Zhu Rong got on her horse the same time her brother also mounted.

Near Jiao Zhi Castle…

“Lu Bu! I, the King of Nanmans challenge you to a duel!” Meng Huo demanded.

The whole army on both sides exchange whispers on the outcome. Lu Bu show up on the top of the castle gates scanning the field and his strategist Chen Gong is counseling him about the alliance.

“Did he just howling out to my name?” Lu Bu scratched his shoulders when it itches.

“I think he’s pissed off,” Chen Gong coughed.

“What? What is he pissed off about?” Lu Bu blinked.

“I don’t know, but I do know you saw that woman. So assuming she’s the wife of that king,” Chen Gong grinned.

“No kidding! He must’ve thinking I’m here to steal his wife! Gao Shun, bring me my halberd!” Lu Bu ordered.

The solution worry Lu Bu seriously as he got on his Red Hare and mounted towards the field. It looks as if his opponent signed a death wish by throwing away the life of his wife and everyone whom are precious to Meng Huo.

“Brother, Lu Bu heading his way towards us. Looks as if he accepts your challenge,” Meng You pointed at Lu Bu’s direction.

“Loose the tigers! He’ll regret facing The King!” Meng Huo roared.

When Lu Bu sees his opponent charging at him, not only his opponent coming, but also three tigers joining the hunt and it looks like Lu Bu is now on the porches menu.

“Tch! He’s serious…” Lu Bu shocked. Never have he seen his opponent this enticing. Furthermore, three tigers and a man is a combination of Lu Bu’s arsenal that leaves the match balance.

Zhu Rong and her brother catches up with the main army and saw the fight already started.

“Grrr!” the tigers surrounded Lu Bu preying on him. Then Meng Huo charges at Lu Bu loosing his Gaunlets like a boomerang as Lu Bu dodges them as they return back to Meng Huo’s arms.

“Rawwwr!!” the three tigers strike their claws at Lu Bu and he wasted no time reacting to the predators. Meng Huo is the least threaten of the 4 opponents, these tigers are all linked to the King’s beast taming.

“Meng Huo, stop!” Zhu Rong protested. But, her husband is too focused on the fight with his reputation on the line.

“Coming here in the south stalking my land and my wife, damn you!” Meng Huo continued several assaults jointing with his three tigers while Lu Bu rarely blocks the gauntlet, but dodges those fearsome tiger claws and mouths.

“Listen, you got the wrong idea why I’m here!” Lu Bu stated.

“I know every idea why you are here! What makes you so different to other Northerners!?” Meng Huo scowled.

“It’s no use, there must be a way to put an end to this nuisance,” Lu Bu thought.

“Your majesty, heed his woods!” Dailai Dongzhu suggested.

Meng Huo won’t reconsider. He’ll beat this man like nobody had done it before in a duel. First he jump off his horse high in the air while his tigers leap and drag Lu Bu down to the ground.

“What a coward. He uses his beasts to help him fight Lu Bu…” Gao Shun shook his head.

“No, this makes sense to that man’s prowess. Never have I seen a man tame his tigers and control them like competent soldiers, it’s incredible,” Chen Gong analyzed.

The duel continues on giving Zhu Rong a massive headache. But, also she’s amaze how well her husband fights against Lu Bu. Nobody knows what will happen in the end. Lu Bu is now in an unlikely disadvantage. He’s stronger than Meng Huo, but those tigers surely make up with the lack of extra strength, however Lu Bu has zero motivation to beat this man in a duel. It’s not worth it and right now he has to find a way to stop this fight.

“Never have I fought in this kind of condition….” Lu Bu thought as Meng Huo lands on him hard with a body press.

“Hahaha, he got him!” Meng You cheered, as are all the other Nanman footmen.

“Well, that’s that…” Zhu Rong choked.

“Did he really win, sister?” Dailai Dongzhu questioned.

Zhu Rong is still uncertain, but she can see her husband getting up after performing that move.

“Father!” Lu Ling Qi raced in the last minute after what happened. She sees her father lying on the now cracked ground from the effects of that move.

“Don’t count the mightiest warrior out Ling Qi, watch,” Chen Gong said.

After a brief silent, Meng Huo knew he had enough and the verdict already in. He turns to his troops and raise both of his arms up victorious.

“Who is the strongest now!?” Meng Huo cried. His people cried his name, he thought he has accomplished the impossible, however, what he didn’t see is Lu Bu getting himself up off the ground slowly.

The shouts are starting to die out when Lu Bu stood behind Meng Huo in a troublesome appearance no someone like Meng Huo can look back. As Meng Huo turns, he saw the chest of the man whom he thought he can stand up against. Lu Bu is 6 feet over and Meng Huo is not.

“Tch, those eyes…what the hell are they…?” Meng Huo choked. His attempt obviously failed and Lu Bu puts his giant sized left hand on Meng Huo’s neck and raise him high above.

Zhu Rong knows it has come to this. It looks back for the Nanman army and Lu Bu is no fluke.

“Now you listen to me, “Your Majesty” “ Lu Bu said. He forgot about Meng Huo’s tigers coming after him. They don’t like it when their master is hurt.

“Khan, Shaw, and Hu! Sick him boys!” Meng Huo commanded.

“These damn porches go find somebody else to be eaten!” Lu Bu struggled.

Meng Huo was release from Lu Bu’s chokehold as he catches a breather. He turns towards his wife’s attention as she telling him to stop the fight, but if he did, he’ll be a laughing stock in his lands and undeserving of the woman he loves.

Lu Bu did his musou to get the tigers out of his way and they’re now submitted. Only one left is Meng Huo.

“This guy is so persistent, Chen Gong. Don’t he know he’s no match for my father?” Ling Qi said. She’s annoyed that the fact the barbarian pushes Lu Bu this far in the duel.

“Lets call it a day, your majesty. I don’t come here to fight you. Lets settle an alliance between our forces,” Lu Bu demanded.

“I’ll settle it with my death,” Meng Huo charges at Lu Bu for one more bout. This time Lu Bu is ready as he stood waiting for Meng Huo to take the first attack, he exchange it with a deadly high kick sending the king launched up midair.

“No, I’m not done with you yet. Not until you see this!” Meng Huo thought. He pretends to be half conscious then execute his musou striking his fist to the ground.

“What, he pretended to be defeat while leaving me wide open,” Lu Bu thought.

With 3 geysers rocking the surface, Lu Bu returns to the ground damaged. Both forces are entertained by the two men efforts. Meng Huo hopes Lu Bu stays down defeated, because he becomes exhausted from using up his entire chi.

“He can’t last much longer against Lu Bu without his tigers. Only thing he got left is his musou, but the question is how much can Lu Bu take from all of my husband’s attacks,” Zhu Rong thought.

Meng Huo slowly walk up to where Lu Bu is. His musou have taking damage at this man, but it might not be enough. If he tries to recover his chi then Lu Bu will have the chance to catch him off guard. So he tries to make sure his opponent is unconscious. Suddenly, Lu Bu gets up quickly and chocks Meng Huo this time there aren’t any tigers distracting him.

“Urrgh!” Meng Huo gasped.

“Very interesting indeed. You sure pull off some effective hits at me, but I’m curious about your stamina compare to mine. Now yield!” Lu Bu said.

Meng Huo kicked Lu Bu in the balls forcing him to release the chokehold again.

“Oooh, that’s clever,” Chen Gong rubbed his chin.

“Give me a break,” Gao Shun sighed.

“Damn, just yield, Meng Huo!” Zhu Rong shouted.

“Yielding is for laughingstocks!” Meng Huo boomed back.

“Fool, do you care so much about your pride…nggh!” Lu Bu felt the pain of his balls as one of this weakness he hates.

“What about your pride!?” Meng Huo talked back. Before he makes his next move, Lu Bu tackled the king and wrestles him in submission hold.

“Yield!” Lu Bu said.

Meng Huo has no other options, but one last bit that might work. He bites Lu Bu’s leg.

“Arrgh!! Damn it, yield not bite me!” Lu Bu urged.

“….” Meng Huo ignored.

“Sigh, this calls in for a stalemate. Come on,” Zhu Rong mounted her way to the field with Meng You and Dailai Dongzhu.

Chen Gong sees the woman and her two generals moving directly to the center field. It looks like the fight is over.

“Yep, as I expect from those two. They’re alike after all,” Chen Gong chuckled.

“No way that stupid beast is compared to my father!” Ling Qi denied.

“What a waste of time, we knew Lu Bu will triumph over that coward,” Gao Shun said.

They all meet at the center where Meng Huo’s mouth is still on Lu Bu’s leg. Lu Bu kept socking the king in the head telling him to get his mouth off his leg.

“Dear, let go of his leg. You’ve done enough showing off in front of me,” Zhu Rong getting angry about her husband’s jealousy.

“But…” Meng Huo worried that she’ll turn him away and favor Lu Bu over him.

“Now!” Zhu Rong warned. It can’t be helped. He couldn’t beat this man and now the whole land will tell the story about it.

“Thank you, my lady. Now when the hell are you going to accept my proposal your majesty? And what the hell is that kind of fighting style you learnt?” Lu Bu asked.

“Nevermind him, I’m also in charge of this army, but I have to let my husband test your abilities before I can be sure you’re trustworthy and have a change of heart. Northerners been telling stories about how bad you are,” Zhu Rong sighed.

“That damned Cao Cao again making people believe he’s right again,” Chen Gong grumbled.

“Cao Cao?” Zhu Rong look puzzled at Chen Gong’s reaction.

“You don’t want to know how that man became ruler of this land, but he has not unified China unless we work together and stop him,” Chen Gong said.

“So that’s why you want us to join you to protect our land when he comes to invade it,” Zhu Rong said.

“Huh?!” Meng Huo blinked.

“A queen is more powerful than the king…that’s just like Diao Chan and me,” Lu Bu thought.

“What do you say, will you accept an alliance or rather join our force combining both your knowledge of terrain and Lu Bu’s army of might?” Chen Gong awaits an answer.

“What’s it going to be dear?” Zhu Rong glared at her husband.

“Who me?” Meng Huo pointed at himself.

“Of course you silly, you’re the King and you must decide where our fate lies. You’ve seen this man change and how powerful he is. That army is stronger than ours except the girly who needs more training,” Zhu Rong snickered.

“Say what?!” Ling Qi thinking of a fight, but Lu Bu stopped her.

“Hmm, baby, can I tell you something for a moment?” Meng Huo asked.

“Durr, what is it right now?” Zhu Rong dragged her husband feet away from the audience.

“It’s about us. What will happen to us if we joined them? You know Lu Bu, he betrays people,” Meng Huo said.

“And now he cares about the people. I understand your concerns, dear. Look, we’ll become more powerful joining him. You don’t want to have to face Zhuge Liang alone because that guy over there, Chen Gong, looks like a powerful strategist,” Zhu Rong said.

“Ahhh! Now that’s more like it! Hahahah, we’ll get Zhuge Liang this time baby! I say we join em!” Meng Huo accepted.

“You hear that everybody, we’ll join Lu Bu’s army!” Zhu Rong announced.

“Phew…now I don’t have to worry about Zhuge Liang taking Nan Zhong before us,” Chen Gong thought.

“Excellent, Gao Shun prepare the banquet!” Lu Bu commanded.

“Uh, Zhu Rong, I’m sorry to snap like that. It’s just that when there’s someone stronger than me, I always get jealous and embarrass myself because of you,” Meng Huo said.

“That’s why I’m your wife. What make you think Lu Bu is going to steal me when I tell you a romantic story about him and Diao Chan?” Zhu Rong grinned.

“Diao Chan? She’s Lu Bu’s wife?” Meng Huo asked.

“Yep, come on they’ll tell you more about it at the banquet. You look awfully hungry dear,” Zhu Rong smiled.

Meanwhile at Cao Cao's...

"My lord, Lu Bu and Meng Huo has joined the forces," Xun Yu informed.

"Bah! They're both stupid beasts!" Cao Cao grumbled.

Next chapter: Guan Ping and Xing Cai

Chapter 4: Guan Ping and Xing Cai


Boredom, it is everywhere in the palace from across the halls, the meeting council, the banquets she often see her so-called fiancé she once took care of years ago, and the garden. Her life she once enjoyed had come to past and now she’s been downplayed into an ordinary woman.

Tonight is a dinner party that’ll invite the Wu ministers discussing future relations between the two kingdoms. Great, a party with those traitors who don’t even care what her beloved fought for! She can’t wait to walk up there and slap Lu Xun for capturing and executing someone she’s meant to be married!

“My lady, the emperor is waiting for you at the banquet,” the handmaid said.

“I’ll be there in the moment,” Xing Cai sighed. Why in the world does it have to be like this? Banquets, endless times wandering the castle, watch the garden, and visiting her mother and brothers.

“Xing Cai, you have to preserve this burden,” Guan Ping’s voice echoed.

“….” Xing Cai finished adjusting her dress and patted her hair.

She looks stunning when seeing herself at the mirror. As she turn away facing the direction out of the room, Guan Ping’s voice continues to speak against her thoughts.

At the hall…

Her astonishment drew the crowd as she walks through the hall. Soldiers bow to her respectively in supporting for the empress and her kingdom. It makes her sick when people look at her this way like some kind of goddess, when in reality; she’s a lonely star.

“Empress Zhang, shall I escort you to the dining hall?” a man showed up holding up his left arm.

“Jiang Wei, of course you may so,” Xing Cai approved. She left a hideous weak smile as the two walked together. At least, she felt Jiang Wei’s arm around her arm and that feeling holds a resemblance to Guan Ping’s.

Flashback…
She was young that time with him sparring at the barracks during the struggle for Han Zhong. It was tiresome after hour doing the same routine. They must be prepared for the worse and her father will start the invasion with Ma Chao.

“You’re getting better at this precedent, Xing Cai,” Guan Ping said.

“Doing the same example over and over is getting old,” Xing Cai dragged herself to the tree and sat next to it.

“But, perfecting it isn’t easy, Cai. You know better than to fight in the worst shape and form. Your movements still lack some length and the priority of your folk hasn’t reach the strength of your Father and Bao,” Guan Ping commented.

“So, you suggest I be like my father and brother? They’re like rabid dogs shouting and make noise outside,” Xing Cai glared at her lover. She knows she loves her father Zhang Fei and her brother Zhang Bao very much, but to compare her abilities with those two isn’t her cup of tea, that’s why she’s Lady Xiahou’s favorite child.

“Rowdy they may be, but they’re strong and competent, Xing Cai. That’s what kind of soldiers we need to fight and restore our fallen dynasty. Geez, now I’m sounding more like my father,” Guan Ping grinned.

“Oh, stop lecturing and come here,” Xing Cai giggled. She drags her lover down to the ground close to her as he lie his head on her lap.

“Sigh, it’ll be dark soon,” Guan Ping said.

“Yeah…” Xing Cai loved the enthusiasm of Guan Ping’s steadfast personality.

“Xing Cai, have your thought about the future?” Guan Ping asked. He closes his eyes while listen to what she’ll say.

“I don’t think about it that much, but what I’m thinking about right now is what will happen between us,” Xing Cai replied.

“Between us…” Guan Ping thought.

“Like what will we be doing together after the war? I say, both of us party at the victory ceremony and go dancing,” Xing Cai predicted.

“I haven’t learned any dancing lessons….” Guan Ping thought.

“Or watch the poetry contest,” Xing Cai added.

“I’ll fall asleep during the Chinese literature class…” Guan Ping again thought.

“All this will be exciting together!” Xing Cai squeaked.

“Yeah, as you say… but in reality….” Guan Ping shows a hidden sadness within Xing Cai’s hopes.

“Hm? Guan Ping, what’s wrong?” Xing Cai blinked.

“Oh? Sorry, what did you say again?” Guan Ping shrugged.

“Grrr! Don’t pretend you ignore my thoughts!” Xing Cai snarled.

“Uh, you got a scary look…” Guan Ping sweated his forehead.

“Hmph!” Xing Cai turned away making Guan Ping laugh at the reaction. Soon the sky grows dark as dusk come.

“Look Xing Cai, that star above,” Guan Ping pointed directly at the shiniest star above the sky.

They watch as the star brightens the face of the pair as Xing Cai sees this phenomenal as a sign of the Heavens. Could it be that her dreams and hopes will come true? Guan Ping look at Xing Cai awe at the brightest star, something tells him her beauty is that of the star, his star.

“O’ Heavens, please let this be said; I want to marry my Guan Ping in the future and until that time comes, I will always stay by his side,” Xing Cai blessed.

Flashback ends…
On that time, it was the sweetest moment in her life to pledge her lover and then…he’s gone. Now, those same people that took away his life now dare to visit her home.

“Here we are, his majesty is sitting over there. I’ll be next to Zhuge Zhan. Just try to remain calm, my lady,” Jiang Wei comforted. Recently after the deaths of Zhuge Liang and Yue Ying, he adopted Zhuge Zhan and together they both continue studying the 12 strategies of Zhuge Liang’s war manual.

She looks a Jiang Wei and an image of Guan Ping flashed. Both of them have an identical personality, but Jiang Wei studied as a scholar during his childhood while Guan Ping was a mere farmer, so she spoke her deepest gratitude, “Thank you, Prime Minister.”

She sat next to Liu Chan who is glad to have her with him. Liu Chan’s son Liu Chen is on the other side and the rest of the ministers gathered around the table. But, she stares at one man and only one man with the look of hater. Lu Xun who is now Wu’s prime minister is sitting the opposite side with his son Lu Kang.

“So, shall we get started?” Liu Chan said.

Next Chapter: Liu Shan and Xing Cai

Chapter 5: Liu Shan and Xing Cai


At the banquet in Cheng Du Castle…

Empress Zhang hadn’t ate anything during the feast and she still had her eye on Lu Xun. The distinguish man’s mood is so naughty to her. Is he so proud of his position that cost the blood of her lover?

“So tell me, Lu Xun? How did the expedition go on occupy Xiang Yang?” Jiang Wei asked.

“Well, we made little progress, but never have I challenge myself against the best minds of Wei. Man Chong is by far my greatest challenge. He’s crafty and underrated though. You had Sima Yi on the other hand and Jia Kui who figured out Zhou Fang’s false defection plot. I don’t know how long my army can still concentrate the offense while we strengthen our naval defense formation,” Lu Xun stated.

“I see,” Jiang Wei rubbed his chin. He’s acquaintance of Lu Xun’s leadership. Sooner or later, Jiang Wei will lead his army after the preparations are complete. Hopefully if Lu Xun could stay alive, they’ll work together to bring down Wei and the Sima fraction.

“I’ve heard you’re preparing to make your move. Is this approval to you, your majesty?” Lu Xun turned to Liu Chan who rarely understands military.

“That’s up to my administrators Jiang Wan and Fei Yi, but here Jiang Wei had studied many books from the late Zhuge Liang. So, I hope for the best of his abilities. But, may I have your opinion, Prime Minister Xun?” Liu Chan gives a puzzled look at Wu and their leader nodded, then Liu Chan speaks out his concern, “I wanted to make peace with the kingdom of Wei and establish an union with three states. Does this look like a good idea?”

Xing Cai gives a glare at her husband. Why did he bring up that ridiculous peace talk!? Does he think this man’s opinion will be valid?! This is the same man who brought her live a living hell, Guan Ping’s death and Yi Ling!

“Your majesty! This is not the time to bring that up,” Jiang Wei wided. Lu Xun is in a state of confusion, does the Emperor of Shu really intend to make peace with Wei let along have Sima Yi and many ministers of Wei take advantage of Liu Chan’s non influential rule?

“Please, let me hear from Wu themselves, Jiang Wei. Now, what do you think Lu Xun?” Liu Chan is waiting.

“Liu Chan, just what the hell are you talking about?” Xing Cai thought. When a handmaiden asked to pour her wine, she refused and still put her attention at her husband.

“I…I don’t know what to say. But, there’s one thing about my lord. After the death of Zhuge Liang, he’s changed…” Lu Xun frowned.

Everyone, but Ding Feng, Zhu Ran, and those who joined Lu Xun to the invitational remain silence. It’s true; Sun Quan is a changed man.

“What do you mean he changed?” Jiang Wei got intimidated of hearing this news.

“….” Lu Xun turns to his son Lu Kang. He wonders if after he’s gone, will Kang take the burden of Wu’s future?

“Let me tell you all this. I’m not proud of my merits in the services of Wu, except the gratitude of supporting the Sun family and my wife. Also, Jiang Wei?” Lu Xun’s eyes become serious.

“Huh?” Jiang Wei puzzled wanting to know what Lu Xun had in mind.

“I maybe the only talented mind of Wu, but that is not certain. I have political rivals within my kingdom. Quan Zong and Zhuge Ke, they’re more favored by my lord. Quan Zong took Hei Fei by surprise and Zhuge Ke exceed in tactical operations. I don’t know how long I’ll hold my position as viceroy, but I fear, those two don’t know what they’re up against, but Sun Quan keeps on praising them,” Lu Xun said.

“Quan Zong and Zhuge Ke, eh,” Jiang Wei thought.

“Oh, so the Hero of Wu is showing signs of regrets. Why am I surprised of hearing this?” Xing Cai thought.

“My lord is getting reckless and cruel. I’ve tried to warn him about interceptions from Sima Yi if we’re not cautious of reaching Xu, but he scold me for the first time…” Lu Xun shook his head.

“Hmph! And here I am suppose to sympathize you?” Xing Cai thought.

“You better do something, he has no idea what Sima Yi is capatable of. If they take back He Fei, Wu will never continue to take the offense,” Jiang Wei said.

“My sentiments actually,” Lu Xun nodded.

“Hmm,” Liu Chan thought about what this will go through.

“I’m no longer Sun Quan’s favorite general, but still given the position of Prime Minister,” Lu Xun sighed.

“Because of Yi Ling…” Xing Cai finally speaks out after a hearing all the timid conversation.

“Huh?” Lu Xun raise his left eyebrow.

“Yes, because of Yi Ling, he’ll leave you aside for the responsibility of that incident! Suck it up like a guilt convict and accept your fate!” Xing Cai argued.

“Xing Cai…” Liu Chan and Jiang Wei exchanged shocking looks at the Empress as are all the Shu officers and Wu.

“…” Lu Xun now changed into his quiet mood when it comes to arguments. Unlike Zhou Yu, Lu Xun never loses his cool and he respects the opinions and talents of other forces even Zhuge Liang when they both never met in a debate.

“No, listen! This man came here to confess his faults and his own lord’s ambitions so that the plot to take Jing and kill Guan Ping and his father was a cover up to make him popular amongst his people and make Sun Quan Emperor!! Have you no shame to come in here an actually sympathize us and our losses!” Xing Cai wrathfully stated.

“And your own lord declared himself Emperor,” Lu Xun countered.

“…” Liu Chan shook his head. Damn not this again. Jiang Wei could only hear the outcry towards the Red Falcon.

“When he thought Liu Xie was killed according to those rumors on his abdication! These lands here were once the birth of China and ruled by those who truly ascent to the heavens! The Han was successor to the state of Qin, your government on the other hand is nothing more than another Chu and if your lord make himself the next Xiang Yu, then Liu Bei is Liu Bang!” Xing Cai boomed.

“Xing Cai, that’s enough!” Liu Chan shouted.

“Shut up! What do you have against the enemies of our fathers!?” Xing Cai scorned her incompetent husband.

“My lady, that’s a long time ago and it had come to pass,” Jiang Wei said.

“But, it’s the same damned thing happening right now!” Xing Cai objected.

“So I’m this era’s Han Xin,” Lu Xun thought.

“Your kingdom may be allied with us, but to me, you’re traitors! Get the hell out of my castle and take your pity to the Kingdom of Wei whom your lord had also betrayed!” Xing Cai ordered.

“Your castle?!” Liu Chan widened. Did she even care about how he continued to govern the lands of Shu in agriculture prosperity? He knows she’s in love with Guan Ping the day they grown up together while Guan Ping is older.

“Very well, it’s been an honor to be a guest here, but I must abide your ladyship’s fury. Empress Zhang, I may be responsible for your loss, but I was not the one who ordered his execution, neither was Lu Meng and Pan Zhang disrupted the discipline and patience of the military law by executing them. There wasn’t an order and we tried to cover it up so that our lord did not held responsible for the deaths of them, we didn’t promote Pan Zhang who captured them till after Yi Ling. I did my best to make sure renegade generals like him do not take action till the order is giving. Forgive me, it was not my fault I beg you. You have no idea how much our kingdom had loss because of our lord’s greed and recklessness of positioning renegade generals in different districts,” Lu Xun explained.

“You should have just released them, no matter how dangers they may be a threat to you, but they’re precious to us and we have no motivation to attacking your lands!” Xing Cai shear tears at the irresponsible of Wu’s discipline.

“ I know, that was our original intent. My intention and not my lord’s; come on Kang, we’re going home,” Lu Xun departed, but before he exit the dining hall, he turns to the shining star, hoping it will not fall.

“Please…leave..,” Xing Cai said.

Wu left the castle and escort to their vessels.

Outside Cheng Du castle…

“I have never seen a woman who speaks so critical to our kingdom, she does remind us of Shang Xiang,” Ding Feng said.

“That is Shu’s Sun Shang Xiang, Ding Feng,” Zhu Ran nodded.

Lu Xun didn’t comment on anything after the banquet. She sure does have a point and he is very sorry about Guan Ping. It’s beyond his control.

“Father, that woman is scary,” Lu Kang said.

It’s beyond his control…

Meanwhile, back inside the castle, Jiang Wei and Zhuge Zhan continue to study while Liu Chan and Xing Cai are with the audience at the court.

“Xing Cai have you gone insane!? Our kingdom and Wu have been amicable for years after the deaths of our fathers, they didn’t come here to scoff us on our current state!” Liu Chan complained.

“So, it doesn’t change anything after 20 years! And what the hell is this talk about making peace with Wei? Do you think Sima Yi will leave us alone!? Considering we’re like sitting ducks to his conquest. I didn’t marry you to surrender our lands to Wei. If you have some balls to speak up with the last generation of great men, then prove yourself to your people or they’ll leave you behind under the impression of traitors!” Xing Cai stormed off to the bedroom leaving the whole audience whispering.

“What has gotten into you, Cai? We’ve been together for years and you have overcome your grieve only to backlash it and all hell break loose at the banquet I’ve just worked hard to hold,” Liu Chan thought.

“People of Shu! Hear me this, if Wu wants peace can they bring Guan Yu and Guan Ping back!?” Xing Cai hallowed across the hallways towards her room.

“I never seen her like this before, your majesty. Please don’t concern this upon you. It’s not your fault,” Qiao Zhou said.

“…….” Liu Chan racing through thoughts on their marriage and childhood. It’s beyond his control.

Xing Cai had waste all her time at that banquet and she brought disaster to the relations between two kingdoms.

“Xing Cai, it’s Jiang Wei, may I enter?”

“You may so,” Xing Cai granted.

“Are you alright? Everyone is worrying about you and your temper. We’re not going to put another banquet with Wu unless you approve. It’s going to be a long night with our majesty, because he’s thinking about you,” Jiang Wei said.

“It doesn’t change anything anymore, my life is in ruins because of that banquet,” Xing Cai sobered.

“If there is anything you want to talk to me about, then meet me at the study hall. I’ll be glad of any help, Daughter of Yide,” Jiang Wei smiled. He left the room leaving Xing Cai alone quiet and dull.

Late at night…

Xing Cai and Liu Chang didn’t sleep together this time as Liu Chan decided to sleep alone and order no one to disturb him till he returns to the imperial court.

Xing Cai hadn’t sleep or eat for the entire day as she stare at the painting of a group of people. It was in the time of 217 with the Liu Bei army preparing for the battle against Cao Cao. Zhao Yun, her father, Liu Bei, Zhuge Liang, Guan Yu, Ma Chao, Yue Ying, Guan Ping and a host of the original Liu Bei army. Yep, the originals and the best crew, one of the strongest line up of officers that match Cao Cao’s own. She can imagine the fires burning that painting up. She wonders if she’ll follow suit and leave Liu Chan and Jiang Wei alone to carry the burden?

Jiang Wei is outside with Zhuge Zhan still studying the stars before they go to bed. One star was memorable to Jiang Wei’s, which was once Zhuge Liang’s star.

“So, the stars reveal the fate of those lives who are about to depart this world. Your father’s star lays true to the philosophy, Zhan,” Jiang Wei said.

“Where is my star?” Zhuge Zhan asked. Jiang Wei pointed the direction where the star that shines is the youngest one.

“That’s your star, Zhan. You still have a long life ahead and plenty of time to live up to your father,” Jiang Wei said.

Suddenly, another star is blinking weakly. He wonders who star could that be and it looks to be the most beautiful star among all the stars in the nightly sky.

“…” Jiang Wei wonders what could this mean.

Back in Cheng Du castle, Liu Chan gets a disturbing wake up call as he woke.

“I told you not to come in here till tomorrow,” Liu Chan grumbled.

“I’m sorry, my lord, but it’s urgent. The…the empress…” the guardsman reported.

“What? What about Xing Cai?! I must go see her to the room!” Liu Chan hurried out of the hall.

When he gets into Xing Cai’s room, he fear what became of her. He scanned the entire room and saw a suspicious object.which appears to be…it can’t be.

“Xing Cai! Xing Cai!!” Liu Chan tries to regain her conscious, but she lays motionless and dead.

When Jiang Wei arrived back inside Cheng Du castle, he heard the news and rushed to the same room later after Liu Chan wept his dead wife as was his son who came late at the same time as Jiang Wei.

“No…that star couldn’t have been hers!” Jiang Wei thought.

“Prime Minister, check this out, the letter and she poisoned her own wine that caused her death,” Zhang Yi showed Jiang Wei the letter and he reads it.

“Xing Cai, why couldn’t you love me the same way as Guan Ping!? Why did you have to kill yourself for this!?” Liu Chan holds his wife tight feeling completely useless without her now.

Jiang Wei goes on to continue reading the letter while he holds back his own tears. The letter reveals her feelings towards the kingdom of Shu, Jiang Wei, and Liu Chan.

Jiang Wei,

By the time you read this letter, do not mourn my death, but continue carrying the dreams of all those who passed away. I am the last of those who fought to bring back glory of the Later Han Dynasty that has been corrupted and interrupted for the past years during this civil war. If you look up at that painting, there you’ll see my lover and remind him of yourself and what you’re fighting for. Please take care of Liu Chan while I’m gone. There’s no place for me here in my castle except depression. I won’t join Guan Ping, but my selfishness brought me to my own death because I admit my love for Liu Chan is not the same as my lover and if I continue to be at Liu Chan’s side I’m only destroy another part of myself and my star. If you see that star earlier, then that is my star. Farewell, prodigy.

“Zhang Yi, report this to her sister and Shao,” Jiang Wei ordered.

“Very well,” Zhang Yi bowed.

“Jiang Wei, I heard what happened,” Liao Hua arrived.

“Yes, Liao Hua, our star had fade away,” Jiang Wei turns and looked at the painting.

Next Chapter: Sun Ce and Da Qiao

Chapter 6: Sun Ce and Da Qiao


Sun Bofu, he’s the young individual who subjugated Jiang Dong and shook the nation with his small army. The world was light the first time she heard the news, at first there was doubt and worry if he’ll make it out alive and see her again.

“Da,” Sun Ce walked up to his wife.

Years now, his force is one of the most powerful next to the likes of Cao Cao and Yuan Shao. Reigning the governorship of Yang zhou is a overwhelm accomplishment, but his ties with Yuan Shu is the bane of his metric. He did give that man the Imperial Seal to borrow troops.

“You’re home, my lord,” Da Qiao finished her work she wrote. It’s a secret and she can’t tell her husband what it’s about.

“Yes, I’ll be preparing my men for the Liu Biao Campaign. I don’t care if he’s Yuan Shao’s ally, I have no allegiance to that man and Huang Zu,” Sun Ce relaxed himself from stress of the council.

“Liu Biao and Huang Zu’s name means taboo to him these days. Maybe I might add that part about him in the book,” Da Qiao thought.

“Oh, there’s something else I have to tell you about. Your sister asked if you could help her with something. She will not tell me what it’s all about, but you have to visit her at Zhou Yu’s,” Sun Ce said.

“It’s probably her own martial art room she’s working on. Does Zhou Yu approve of this?” Da Qiao wondered.

“He never spoke a word about it, but that look in him was priceless,” Sun Ce laughed.

“Our fighting style must have brought many girls and women into the Qiao arts of fan using fighting style,” Da Qiao choked.

“I thought they’re for dancing,” Sun Ce waved the maid to serve him some tea. At times, Da Qiao is supposed to bring him it, but other times the servant does.

“Oh, don’t underestimate the Qiao style of martial arts! Our beauty and style is natural to protect ourselves from ruffians who plague this land. I shall go help Xiao with her own school,” Da Qiao vowed.

“I won’t stop you, Lady Qiao. If it’s for the people of Wu, then you must,” Sun Ce gets his tea and drinks a slip of it.

“But….Bofu, do you really want to go to war with Liu Biao? What if Cao Cao had…” Da Qiao changed her tone back to normal. She’s overprotective of Sun Ce’s life in a political matter. She’s the leading lady like always.

“I thought Liu Bei and Yuan Shao would deal with Cao Cao! Liu Biao will ally with that traitor right after I attack him,” Sun Ce glittered.

“Why now, what about…what about our baby?” Da Qiao thought. The scary part of letting the tiger out of his cage continue to trauma her.

“We’re going to occupy, Chang Sha, Da. Taking back everything my father lost since claiming Jiang Dong years ago. Tomorrow, I’ll be leaving while you help Xiao with her martial arts school,” Sun Ce announced.

“No, you’re going to abandon this campaign and see our child be born!” Da Qiao argued.

“Must I leave my father’s enemy from becoming more powerful making the solution to getting Jing more difficult than wasting my time with…” Sun Ce gets a hard slap in the face from Da Qiao.

“Am I wasting your time with having a family?” Da Qiao gives a scary look in the face of Sun Ce.

“Uh…no, you’re the most wonderful thing in my life, Da. Honest…” Sun Ce sighed..

“You’ll lose everything and the face of our baby leaving your brother to take everything you’ve worked hard for. If Liu Biao up to something, then let him be until you see our child, you can finally go back to warring with Liu Biao,” Da Qiao said.

Sun Ce grunted and stood up to face the window view. Another beautiful sunset at Jiang Dong, like everyday it is. Da Qiao frown at the awkward silence, could there be another way to talk some sense into The Little Conqueror.

“So, what will you like to do together, Da? I’ll spend some family time becoming a father soon to be,” Sun Ce not showing any sarcasm on his statement.

“Hmm, promise me: No battles till after the baby is born, ok?” Da Qiao went closer and sit on Sun Ce’s lap in front of him pointing her fingers at him vaguely.

“Um…yes my lady,” Sun Ce shrugged.

They soon lock each other in a kiss. One of those moments, Sun Ce wishes this could last forever because there will be no pleasure till he meets his goal. His mind told him to satisfy vengeance, but his heart desires peace with his wife.

Ce breaks up the kiss, “Da, are you sure about this?”

“….” Da Qiao head rest on Bofu’s chest.

Sun Ce look pale to the obvious. He can’t make peace with his worst enemy when Da Qiao persuade him so. Is it a mistake to marry one of the most beautiful women in the land that is stopping him from achieving his ambition?

“Why don’t I prepare you something, my lord? It’s a special treat for the Little Conqueror,” Da Qiao said

“Sure Da, I can’t hardly wait to see what you got this time,” Sun Ce said. When his wife left him alone in the room, he checked for his father’s sword.

The ancestral sword, though with it by Sun Ce’s side, he’ll never lose the will to complete the long giving task his late father had died for. What a minute? He promised Da Qiao that he’d settle down some family time. Well, so he thought, until Da Qiao’s sound of footsteps approaches back in the room.

“Dada! Try it out, my lord,” Da Qiao gave her husband the delicious rice dinner. It’s a very special one she cooked just for Sun Ce.

Sun Ce takes the chopstick and then eats the food she made. The rice was fried with wild hard noodles, chicken, mixed vegetables, and sesame seed. These kinds of indigents really spice up the taste. He loves eating this and it’s Da’s version of her cooking with no servant working with her.

“Wow, this is really delicious! But, why go in the trouble of making it? We have servants,” Sun Ce blinked, as Da giggle in amusement.

“I am your servant, Bo Fu. It is my duty to help you as a wife. Now, there is something about what we’re planning on the baby,” Da Qiao said.

“Like what, honey?” Sun Ce finished eating his food and watch his wife head back out of the room and then return to reveal a baby cloth.

“This for our baby I made,” Da Qiao smiled, as she is so excited of starting a family.

“It’s all…. pink. So I’ll be getting a daughter instead…well, it’s inevitable,” Sun Ce said with a sarcastic tone.

“You sound like the heavens don’t smile upon you,” Da Qiao frowned.

“Da, is there anything else you wanted to show me before I leave?” Sun Ce asked.

“Oh please, can’t you ever stop thinking about Liu Biao’s army and think about our future. Don’t leave this aside because I’m still in good mood,” Da Qiao urged.

“I’ve seen enough and I’m happy for us to start a family. Regrettably, destiny is calling me at Jing and my men are waiting for me at Chai Sang,” Sun Ce excuse himself to the door, until Da Qiao blocked him.

“I could barely raise a fatherless child….” Da Qiao snarled. His stubbornness is getting on her nerves.

Sun Ce ignored her and pushes his wife away from the door coldly. He didn’t mean to do it, but there is nothing that can stop the Little Conqueror from carrying out his ambition. When he gets outside, his wife is calling out his full name. It didn’t attract his attention when he gets on his horse and turns to see Da Qiao in tears.

“Thanks for everything, Da. I might return to see my child after the campaign, but if it’s a son, then rest assure he’ll succeed me as my brother looks after him. If it’s a daughter…. forgive me,” Sun Ce thought as he sighed and turns away to meet his destiny on the Liu Biao campaign.

Zhou Yu’s home…

“I can’t believe I let her do this,” Zhou Yu bangs his head on the table. Lu Meng watches as he saw Xiao Qiao in the other room fully excited of her new martial arts school.

“It’s not a bad idea. I think Xiao Qiao can make the women of Wu change from being useless,” Lu Meng said.

“Tell me, am I turning into a sexist?! Women and war don’t mix!!” Zhou Yu pulled his hair out in frustration, lucky for him; he didn’t lose any of his beautiful hair.

“Calm down, Lord. If Xiao Qiao wanted this, then it’s best for us,” Cheng Pu said.

“Does the fan have any attack range to killing soldiers?” Zhou Yu asked, with sweat dropping on his forehead.

“Well, I’m wielding a fan right now, Admiral,” Lu Su shrugged.

“Whatever…Look, I can’t stop my wife from embarrassing me too far, but if I persuade her by force, Shang Xiang will beat me up worst than my wife,” Zhou Yu returned to his seat and tried to calm down.

Suddenly, the guard shows up to report his admiral.

“Lord Zhou Yu, Lord Sun Ce has arrive,” the guardsman said.

Sun Ce walks inside the room to meet his sworn brother. The men bowed to their sovereign.

“It’s no surprise that you’re having wife problems just like myself,” Sun Ce chuckled.

“Unlike yours, mine is so ridiculous. Do you have anything against my wife’s decision to run a martial arts school for women studying the usefulness of the fan which is impossible,” Zhou Yu complained.

“Yu my man, you’ll come to understand your wife as I understand mine. Sometimes, I thought is it a mistake to marry the Qiaos on our behalf of conquest?” Sun Ce patted his best friend’s back.

“I’ve been given the stupid one…!” Zhou Yu growled..

“Oh, she’s interesting alright. Now settle down, you’re relating to her in some ways. Like losing your cool and get all bragging with criticism,” Sun Ce laughed and Lu Su and Cheng Pu clear their throats by the obvious.

“Whatever…. now, shall we discuss our war council against Liu Biao?” Zhou Yu stared at Sun Ce with a serious look. His lord didn’t come here just to joke around with him.

“Yes, I was about to get to that part of my reason being here. We shall head for Lu Kou to discuss battle strategy,” Sun Ce commanded.

“Yes sir, I’ll order the troops intermediately,” Cheng Pu bowed and left with Lu Su following.

“Hey Yu, Da and I almost got into a fight. We’re just arguing with fate,” Sun Ce sighed. Zhou Yu knows his best friend better than anyone else, what he says sounds like Ce is troubled with the consequences between his ambition and the woman he loves.

“It’s about Da’s baby right?” Zhou Yu assumed.

“What if it’s a daughter? Will Da be all right as long as I promised my return after I settle the score with Liu Biao? Can she live on raising the girl while my brother takes my place? She’ll never forgive me if that eventually happens. Gongjin, I wanted …a son…a heir…” Sun Ce looked down with a dark face covered his eyes.

“Bo Fu…. you exchange the imperial seal to Yuan Shu for troops, we conquered Yang zhou, and married the Two Qiaos. Does all this become one huge anomaly?” Zhou Yu said, he is as depressing as Sun Ce about this.

“Gongjin, for the first time in my life, I’m afraid. I’m afraid of losing everything, all this is like living a lie,” Sun Ce crossed his arms and lean against the wall thinking hard the events back then, when his father died.

“It isn’t a lie. Look, we have gotten this far since childhood now why should the Little Conquer fear one thing that is trivial? Bofu, you will make it out of this once we conquer Jing and then we’ll settle down to make errands to our future,” Zhou Yu said, trying to assure his best friend that they will succeed in their goal.

“Thanks for the voice of confidant, Lord Genius. I, Sun Ce will defeat Liu Biao and conquer Jing. And then….” Sun Ce paused shortly when he turns face to the Sun.

“You can spend the rest of your life starting a big family leaving the conquest to me,” Zhou Yu walked up to the direction of where the sun is shining to the west.

“My love for Da is the reason why I still fight,” Sun Ce thought.

“Sun Ce, if you wanted a son, then tell Da when you see your born child after the war,” Zhou Yu convinced.

Sun Ce nodded as both prepare to leave the estate. Sun Ce wonders what the direction of his life is supposed to be. If he dies, everything his ambition stands for becomes a major clinch to his brother’s hereditary.

“That is if I make it out alive…I will start a family for Da and make her my queen,”

Da Qiao is viewing the same sunset as she share the same thoughts, which worries her. Hope for her husband to stay alive till he return to see her child.

Next Pairing: Zhou Yu and Xiao Qiao

Chapter 7 Zhou Yu and Xiao Qiao


Xiao Qiao’s new marital arts school is at its last session till the closing hours. Tomorrow will be another great training session for her students. Qiao style art of fan wielding brings ever ounces of physical prowess. The true power of the art is love.

“Keep your balance steady and sway smooth with the natural feel of aura within you,” Xiao Qiao instructed.

Her students follow the example she forms as the whole class execute move after move by their teacher’s pattern. The known women who attend this class is Sun Shang Xiang, Lady Xu, Lady Bu, and of course various of other Wu women.

“Alright keep it up!” Xiao Qiao shouted.

Huang Gai is watching in awe, as he can’t believe his lord’s wife is doing this. All these women are willing to learn how to fight with a fan in combat. It may seem ridiculous but leave it to the younger Qiao.

Zhou Yu shows up in a priceless expression. He shook his head embarrassed about letting this go. His wife, the woman who always makes him grunt a lot with those impossible smiles is one of the only people he can not beat in a debate because of her taunting, carefree sarcasm and felinity. Xiao…

“Admiral,” Huang Gai bowed.

“Huang Gai, I didn’t know you’re fond of this concept,” Zhou Yu shrugged.

“I’m just watching the Lady as you see, she wants me to give her my opinion on her students,” Huang Gai stated.

“Ah…well, this brings me to a conclusion you’ll be in charge of defending Yang Zhou while Ce and I will attack Liu Biao. Will you take this task, Huang Gai?” Zhou Yu requested.

“Of course, I’ll do my best Admiral,” Huang Gai confidently accepted.

“Hmm…” Zhou Yu watched his wife finish her job until the last kata form.

“Your wife?” Huang Gai looked at the young commander serious, he knows Zhou Yu didn’t come here just to fill him in on the request.

“Yes…take care of her when I’m gone,” Zhou Yu said. He turns away from his wife’s powerful cheerfulness and head outside.

When Xiao Qiao finishes, she notices her dearest husband leaving as she hurries to catch up with him before he gets on his horse.

“Zhouie!” Xiao Qiao shouted.

“Sigh, I couldn’t resist the high pitch voice of my beautiful flower…” Zhou Yu shook his head. Calmly he turns to see the innocent smile of Xiao Qiao. Then the face changes into a disappointing look.

“Why didn’t you show up during the session?!” Xiao Qiao angrily questioned. The handsome admiral clears his throat trying to find the best excuse as possible. He did protest his wife’s ideals, but never saw how the outcome fares.

“There are far more important things I have to do than watch you teach the women of Wu how to fight with fans,” Zhou Yu answered.

“And then you show up like your mind has made up. Huang Gai over there is the only man who sees the whole session. Why not the rest of the men like Lady Bu’s husband Sun Quan who rather just as mean as you are about this martial arts school,” Xiao Qiao crossed her arms glaring at him.

Boy she’s really pissed off at him. Zhou Yu takes a deep breath slowly and tries the best way to forgive.

“I’m sorry, Xiao. To be honest, I am worrying about you. Maybe this proportion won’t work, just maybe,” Zhou Yu rubbed his chin as he apologized.

“Look at it this way, we’re learning to support the men of Wu when it’s best they’ll be needing it. That is how the Qiao style martial arts is being teach,” Xiao Qiao explained.

“With fans and I can’t imagine a soldier being killed with paper,” Zhou Yu shrugged.

“There’s this tip of the blade with metal fabric, I’m a daughter of an intelligent guy, Zhouie…” Xiao Qiao wiggle her fan near Zhou Yu’s face.

“Ok ok, I get it. Those things are sharp, you’ll leave a scar in my face and blind mark on my eye,” Zhou Yu backed away abit as he gets her point.

“Finally get you to approve my contribution,” Xiao Qiao drags her husband’s arms close and hugs him.

“…Impossible woman…” Zhou Yu can’t believe why it’s so hard to argue with such an innocent cheerful woman who oddly acts stupid.

“They’re so wonderful together…” Huang Gai put a hilarious wept at the romance scene while Shang Xiang elbowed him making the other women giggled.

“Ahem, Xiao, I must go now,” Zhou Yu breaks up the romance scene with a serious farewell expression.

“Wha…where are you going right now?” Xiao Qiao asked.

“To war, Sun Ce and I have agreed to start the expedition at Jing. We will be attacking Liu Biao forces starting tomorrow,” Zhou Yu confirmed.

War, everything has to be war that breaks them apart. Why can’t love be any stronger than war?

“I see…” Xiao Qiao slowly looks on the ground without looking back at her husband’s face.

“I requested Huang Gai to watch over you and the defenses while I’m gone and there are a few other officers who will remain here to defend Yang zhou,” Zhou Yu added.

“How shall I stop him? If he leaves, will he be alright?” Xiao Qiao thought.

Zhou Yu returns to his horse and eye on the veteran general who exchanges a nod and scanned at the women who are wondering in speculation.

“Xiao, Sun Ce told me that he liked the idea a lot so as soon as my mind made up, I’m starting to grow fond of the Qiao style martial arts. So, do your best my love,” Zhou Yu said with a very cool grin.

“Yes, and please be careful,” Xiao Qiao bowed.

“...I will,” Zhou Yu thought. He didn’t want to tell it out to her. Now he rides his horse away towards the sunset where he’ll join up with his best friend.

At the port near Chai Sang…

“What’s taking you so long and where’s Huang Gai?” Sun Ce asked.

“I’ve told Huang Gai to remain here for the defenses and watch over Xiao,” Zhou Yu mounts off his horse and join the crew at the commander’s ship.

When Zhou Yu board on the navigator with Bofu, they both sail out the Chang Jiang with their large fleet. The sun set into the west where their primary objective awaits. Zhou Yu then speaks to his sworn brother, “Our wives are concerning about us, but I have no regrets leaving them behind to expand our future for our people.”

“Nor do I, my friend. However, about Da, I still love her very much,” Sun Ce said.

“Well then, on ward to victory!” Zhou Yu exclaimed.

Next Pairing: Zhuge Liang and Yue Ying

Chapter 8: Zhuge Liang and Yue Ying


A chilled moon luminously shines the dark sky. There is little lightness left to overcome the darkness of the country. Zhuge Liang’s victory in the 4th Northern Campaign renews the hope to restoring the Han. However, Yue Ying has not seen her husband returning after the battle.

“Mother, when is father coming back?” Zhuge Zhan dragged his mother’s sleeves looking worried.

“In time Zhan, he’s still carrying out our late lord’s wishes hoping you won’t carry this burden in the future,” Yue Ying said. She smiles to her only son and went the room taking out a book that contains everything about Kongming’s Long Zhong plan.

How long has it been when her husband and great teacher met Liu Bei after three visits? When fate as ascended her great teacher, the only thing left in her life is to follow him. She wishes to learn more from him and begs to join him on his journey along with Zhuge Jun.

Flashback at Long Zhong…

As they depart from the now empty house, Zhuge Liang’s enthusiasm engulfs his confident to carry out the grand strategy. The risk is very high and can put the life of the very woman who follows him in danger. He wonders if bring Yue Ying is a good idea or a bad idea. But his marriage brings fruition to his prophetic life.

“What is troubling you, Master?” Yue Ying asked.

“It’s about us. I’m grateful to have you join me, Ying, but…what will you do if something happens to me?” Zhuge Liang looked at her with a pale frown.

“Everything is going to be fine! Your acclaiming wisdom and divine attitude is what inspire me to live. You will succeed, Kongming,” Yue Ying stated. She glances at her beloved and Zhuge Liang looks calmly her while thinking about reliability.

“And what if I fail?” Before Yue Ying can reply, Zhuge Liang speed up his horse to Xin Ye leaving Yue Ying behind slowing the pace as she gaze at the background of his presence.

Yue Ying put too much faith in her lover for him to succeed and she dare not to believe he will fail on his Long Zhong plan.

Flashback ends…

“Sigh…we have come this far and only the Heavens favor my husband’s sincerely. Sima Yi is a traitor of his own kingdom. Zhuge Liang can not rest till that man perish,” Yue Ying thought.

“Mother…” Zhuge Zhan whispered with an icy tone.

“Why don’t you get some sleep, my son? It’s going to be late and we’ll continue your studies tomorrow,” Yue Ying told him.

Zhuge Zhan went to his slumber while his mother takes one more look at the book. She thinks about all those times in the past. The glory days were the best, but also the hardest. And finally right now, half of the ministers are questioning about her husband’s 5th expedition. It’s already draining the economy in Shu, but Qiao Zhou is looking for an advantage to demote Kong Ming’s rank if he failed. Just like last time on the incident at Jie Ting and Zhao Yun’s death. Why will no one believe in her husband anymore? Is this what the outcome will be for the future of this land?

Another Flashback….

Zhuge Liang got demoted again after the horrifying failure of the 2nd northern campaign. Yue Ying was with him to only witness the backlash and Hao Zhao’s triumph. Needless to say, the Shu army outnumbered the Wei army greatly at Chen Cang.

“Kongming, are you all right? Jiang Wei told me what happened when you got mad and left us ashamed of our defeat. Why go so far to start destroying the weapons we invented together?” Yue Ying comfort her husband with a gentle touch on his shoulder after she spoke.

“I committed the deaths of many men due to my patriotism. Never have I been humiliated that way. The 2nd northern campaign was a failure because of my blind vision!” Zhuge Liang wimpered. He sobbed softly covering his eyes on his face. This is the Zhuge Liang no one has ever seen him so let down and very emotional.

“Zhuge Liang, we all make mistakes. I realize this after Ma Su’s death, no one, not even Sima Yi are perfect. We’re after all only human and it’s normal we learn from our mistakes and try better results on the next campaign,” Yue Ying said.

“It’s unforgivable, Ying. Using a massive army to my advantage, it’s like the same faults Yuan Shao, Cao Cao, Sun Quan, and our late lord once tried. The entire council will be questioning my potency and the future generations will know me as a laughingstock, inferior to Sima Yi on insight,” Zhuge Liang continued grieving over his failure. Then Yue Ying moved his head and buried on her chest as she felt the sadness of her lover mumbling the words, “Heavens, what have I done to it’s people?”

“It’s ok, my husband. We all make mistakes because it is part of the will of the heavens,” Yue Ying sighed. She strokes the sleeping dragon’s hair gently wondering about what she just stated to her husband. Staying true to her feelings for Zhuge Liang, she knows him better than anyone in this army.

Will there be another northern campaign? They returned to the capital after the defeat and no plans of a third northern campaign came. Fortunately, after several arguments and debating, the third finally came underway. Many of his supporters willing to help the Prime Minister with everything they got and later on at the fourth northern campaign, they finally succeed back to where they once left off in the first northern campaign. The capture of Chang An is at hand.

Flashback ends…

She placed the book back in the shelf and head towards her room. From there, she lay down on her bed and watches the moonlight out of the window. Suddenly, the star shot from the night sky she watched. She gasped wondering what this could mean? Yue Ying close her eyes and fall asleep hoping the star she saw wasn’t a bad omen.

The morning after…

There shall be news to how the campaign is going. Yue Ying went to cook breakfast for her son. As she gather indigents for her receipt, the sound of horse mounting comes from outside.

“That must be the returning troops from the Northern Campaign. Has the Prime Minister possibly return?” Yue Ying thought to herself. She panicked a bit and slowly walked out of the house.

Is Zhuge Liang back or perhaps Jiang Wan is here to confirm the news on the expedition? She remembered last night the sight of the fallen star; it could mean anything to the outcome of her husband’s career.

Wei Yan is suppose to withdraw his troops to the main force heading its way to the capital, but he oppose Zhuge Liang’s warning of not allowing his wife to learn the true. The reason to his appearance is a mystery.

“Wei Yan, What are you doing here? Did the Prime Minister send you to tell me the news about his expedition? More importantly, where is my husband?” Yue Ying turns her worried expression into a strict looking glare at the least likable person to Zhuge Liang.

Wei Yan begins to put the words into his mouth, but he hesitates before the wife of the Prime Minister when she stared at him annoyed.

“I’m asking you a question and you must answer to me. Your reason being here is significant for importance,” Yue Ying lectured.

Wei Yan takes a deep breath and reveals the news to Lady Huang. He has no regrets not heeding the Prime Minister’s last words.

“Zhuge …Liang..” Wei Yan spoke low toned.

“Speak up in high pitch. I can’t hear you in that tone,” Yue Ying tone turns very cold at Wei Yan. She and Kong Ming never got along with Wei Yan.

“Zhuge…Liang…is …Dead,” Wei Yan clearly confirmed.

“What?” Yue Ying face changed after what she just heard.

“Prime…Minister…Dead…” Wei Yan grieved. It is surprising to see someone like Wei Yan showing emotions.

Yue Ying does not believe what she hearing, but then the thought hit her when she read the falling star last night.

“How did he die?” Yue Ying asked. Her voice almost whispered as if she does not want Wei Yan to reveal her tone.

“Illness…last…night…” Wei Yan said.

Yue Ying squeezed her fist hard as she looked down on the ground thinking about everything her husband did learning from his failures. Why must heaven take him away? Does the heavens forgive her husband’s mistakes?

“Forgive...me… I…must…leave…” Wei Yan bowed and prepared to leave the late Prime Minister’s home.

He takes one more look at Yue Ying, feeling guilty of telling her about Zhuge Liang’s death. He knows the consequences of disobeying the final order of Zhuge Liang. The wind blows as his death is near. He got on his horse and went back to the main army.

Yue Ying tears dropped as she quietly went back to her house, but not before she discover an unusual meaning to Wei Yan’s visit. Did he disobey the order of not telling her about Zhuge Liang’s death? What is going on? Why wouldn’t her husband want her to know that he died? Yue Ying always forgive Zhuge Liang , no matter how many times he failed his expectations, but not revealing his death and her concerns of Wei Yan’s reaction.

“Wei Yan, wait!!” Yue Ying shouted. But, the man had already vanished from the dusty winds. She hurried to her horse. Heaven knows this is a ruse, which explains the posthumous order of Zhuge Liang. Wei Yan’s life is in danger and judging many of his deeds, he’s still not liked by others in Shu and suspected him of becoming a traitor.

Meanwhile….

When Wei Yan returned to the main army, Shu soldiers from Yang Yi’s unit surrounded him and Ma Dai was behind him with the late Ma Chao’s Silver Stallion spear. He struck Wei Yan on the back with it viciously showing no emotion on the falsely accused general.

“The traitor is dead!” Yang Yi shouted.

Once Yue Ying arrived at the scene, it was already too late. Wei Yan is dead and everyone shows no grieve in such a contributing officer. Yue Ying choked even harder than the news of her husband’s death.

“Why…?” Yue Ying icy whispered. Ma Dai looked at her in confusion. Yang Yi on the other hand thought it doesn’t matter.

“It’s Zhuge Liang’s orders; Wei Yan did not return as he was going to defect to Wei,” Yang Yi revealed.

“He went to my house and told me…told me about my husband’s death and this is what the Prime Minister repays me!!?” Yue Ying scowled. She faced to Yang Yi’s sadistic look. Yang Yi hates Wei Yan more than anyone else in Shu than to claim the right of succession after Zhuge Liang died.

Ma Dai look puzzled for a moment as he turn to see the pool of blood spill on Wei Yan’s lifeless corpse. No wonder he felt for the ruse and it’s odd that Wei Yan would go to Yue Ying to inform the late Prime Minister’s death.

Yang Yi ordered the troops to return to the garrison leaving Ma Dai and Yue Ying alone. It was the first of many things shows Shu-Han’s corruption that will lead to it fall.

“I thought he would revolt…” Ma Dai sighed.

“But, he didn’t and you know as well as I do that Yang Yi and Wei Yan are not friends as they both helped my husband make it this far. Wei Yan was never the emotional type and now he finally realizes what emotions is as it cost him his life. Both my husband and Wei Yan are dead and I have nothing left to live for,” Yue Ying sobbed.

“Forgive me, Lady Huang…” Ma Dai said. Holding Yue Ying on his chest, they both grieve the loss of their heroes. Shu has no more power left in this imperfect world.

Next Pairing: Liu Bei and Sun Shang Xiang

Chapter 9: Liu Bei and Sun Shang Xiang


Jiang Ling….

Months after the wedding of Liu Bei and Sun Shang Xiang, the talk of the couple died down as the news of Fa Zheng’s visit become the latest event in the audience. Shang Xiang spends the rest of her time with Liu Chan treating him as if the kid was her real son.

Xing Cai was also there because she admire the bow princess a lot. At times, she learned how to fight from Shang Xiang.

“Lady Sun, do you really like being here with us? It can be a pain to miss your home,” Xing Cai said.

“To be honest, I’m not feeling so homesick being here. It was my own decision and mine alone to be responsible for,” Sun Shang Xiang said as she watched the young Liu Chan who was four years old that time.

“How does one held responsible for their actions?” Xing Cai asked.

“When someone been giving a duty, he/she must assign the task without regretting it,” Sun Shang Xiang explained.

“…..” Xing Cai nodded. Still couldn’t understand why the daughter of the Sun family is doing this for herself.

“When I was at Wu, there were many men who could possibly marry me, but the one who makes those decisions was my brother…” Sun Shang Xiang sighed and continue, “I met Liu Bei that day and how I felt about him was kind of awkward…so awkward.”

“So, you don’t love the imperial uncle as much as you love someone else. Is that why the marriage became awkward?” Xing Cai questioned.

“No no, I do love Liu Bei that much, but our marriage, it’s just there was no real motivation and it was so sudden. I mean, this is all my brother’s orders,” Sun Shang Xiang said.

“I don’t understand, my lady. You marry someone you’ve just met and there is someone else you’re in love with, but can not have an approval from your brother because he make the choices,” Xing Cai shrugged.

“That’s the way of royal marriages and politics, Xing Cai. Someday you will understand,” Sun Shang Xiang put a sad smile on her face as she turn to see the very man she married coming it’s way forward.

“I see you two are enjoying yourselves in a chat. How is Au Dou?” Liu Bei checked his son who was reading.

“Liu Chan is fine, more importantly, how’s the meeting coming along with this Fa Zheng person,” Sun Shang Xiang crosses her arms focusing all her attention on her “husband”.

Of course, Shang Xiang is no ordinary woman since she’s interest in such manly things like warfare and martial arts. She is a tomboy, which is hardly the type of woman Liu Bei is attracted too. Liu Bei is still trying to get use to her attitude.

“Fa Zheng is requesting me to visit Liu Zhang in Yi zhou for an proposal of alliance,” Liu Bei announced.

“I see, then when shall we go to Yi?” Sun Shang Xiang moved closer to Liu Bei engaging a hug.

Liu Bei gives a troubled look. That is the main problem of the meeting. He turns to see Xing Cai with Liu Chan trying to help him phrase the sentences out correctly. It must be hard for the 4 year old to be alive in a chaotic land learning his way through education.

“Xing Cai, will you go meet your father for a while? I must speak with my “wife” in private. Take Au Dou with you since his tutor will be here soon,” Liu Bei said.

Xing Cai nod and takes Liu Chan with her. She complains a little about her father’s jokes to Liu Chan as the two left the room. Shang Xiang reminds those two kids like the children of her best friends Da and Xiao Qiao.

“Liu Chan is going to be five and Xing Cai is becoming a teenager,” Sun Shang Xiang chuckled.

“Ah, yes…they’ll grow up into a fine couple in the future,” Liu Bei sighed.

“Maybe….” Sun Shang Xiang quietly thought.

“Shang Xiang…I’m afraid I can’t take you with me. Zhuge Liang and the other ministers did not agree with it, also it concerns me about your brother Sun Quan,” Liu Bei said.

“What about my brother? He should mind his own business,” Sun Shang Xiang urged.

“Shang Xiang, if this alliance with your brother doesn’t work out….” Liu Bei didn’t finish what he will say when Shang Xiang protested.

“I am going at my own will! You can’t keep me locked in this palace doing nothing, but certain things a normal woman does,” Sum Shang Xiang let go of the grip and stared at Liu Bei getting serious with the way she’s treated.

“Shang Xiang, this is something only a few people who were trusted to go to Yi zhou with me. But, the council doesn’t trust you enough to assign this expedition. I’m sorry, Shang Xiang, to them, you’re a stranger while I’m their faithful leader,” Liu Bei sat down on the chair after he told her.

Sun Shang Xiang grunt while she thinks about those months not doing much in the Liu Bei army and had no one to know a little more about herself besides not making many friends here. The marriage really is a gimmick to provoke her brother to break the alliance. She’s the sister of the very man who might betray Liu Bei and nobody can take her serious as a ‘friend’ except a few.

“Don’t worry about it, Shang Xiang. I want you to stay here and help out the defenses in Jing,” Liu Bei smiled.

“That also means I’m still locked in a cage…” Shang Xiang glared.

“Shang Xiang…” Liu Bei muttered.

“So be it, living with you is no different to how I lived in Wu,” Shang Xiang faced away from the imperial uncle and left to comfort this alone. She is so alone in the other world where even the nicest stranger is still not trustworthy in the side of virtue.

Liu Bei wanted to get this straight with her, but she is gone and a presence of a maiden appear asking if something wrong and Liu Bei told the maiden that everything alright.

“What’s so different to living with a bunch of boring people compare to my overprotective brother and his officers?!” Sun Shang Xiang angrily thought. She tried not to let anyone see her tears as the way to her chambers is by the hall of the castle.

Suddenly, a voice was heard behind her, but she didn’t pay attention. When she gets inside her room, she sobbed and became so frustrated with her life. If it was Gan Ning, it’ll be the same conscience.

A lady appears in her room as she turns to see the wife of Zhuge Liang, Yue Ying. She frowns when seeing Shang Xiang so miserable because of her husband’s suspicions and the rest of the court.

“My lady, I called your name out and you didn’t hear me. What’s troubling you this time?” Yue Ying sat next to her as Shang Xiang told the story.

“Lady Huang, am I really a stranger to everyone? Why did the result of our marriage lead to distrust of the alliance with my brother?” Sun Shang Xiang questioned.

“Come to think of it, my husband and the ministers been raising all those suspicions about that. I do not think you’re a stranger to me. Be satisfied because our lord doesn’t treat you as a trophy. The proposal of the marriage just happened to be offguard after mourning the death of Lady Gan,” Yue Ying said. She comfort Shang Xiang’s shoulders as the crying stopped.

“I’m sorry about his two wives from what I heard of the rumors at Wu,” Sun Shang Xiang sighed.

“They never had a very good marriage with the lord since Cao Cao, Lu Bu, and Yuan Shu were threaten his life at Xu Zhou. So you’re not alone in this marriage trouble. To Lady Gan and Mi, they married Liu Bei out of duty, especially Gan who followed him since he first rise an army and knew each other during childhood. It’s very difficult for them to be happily loved with the war and chaos in conflict,” Yue Ying explained.

“….” Shang Xiang said no more as she thought about her life in Yang zhou comprise to Liu Bei.

“Please endure the burden of this political marriage, because you are the only one who can keep both sides of the alliance from breaking apart,” Yue Ying said

Yue Ying wants to spend more time assuring her advice can settle the Wu princess’s complains on living here. Shang Xiang’s attitude is very impatient while Liu Bei is a patient man.

“Lady Huang, I will like some time alone…please?” Shang Xiang glared at Yue Ying, not very conventional with her advice, but is still thinking about what she said.

“Of course, my lady. I’ll excuse myself then,” Yue Ying bowed.

Once the wise woman left the room, Shang Xiang takes a deep breath and lay down her bed. It’s been a frustrating life with those people because of political issues with her brother. When will they learn that she got here at her own will escaping from the very same routine she experience at Wu. They say, “Freedom isn’t free”, but does that make sense to her life problems because she’s a woman?

“Ok, so I’ve just got into my first real battle at Chi Bi in order to fight for my oldest brother’s honor and Zhou Yu’s who claimed the lands of Wu until they died. How long does it take to show the world what I’m capable of?” Sun Shang Xiang thought.

At Chi Bi it was different. When she met Liu Bei, the only way out of the shadows of her family’s legacy is that very man. She agreed to her own will to be his wife, but the react to the men she’s close with whom couldn’t have her because of her brother were disappointed especially Gan Ning who doesn’t have a problem with that because she’ll be free from the barrier of three Suns. Gan Ning joined her brother to be free from Huang Zu’s scoundrel and his bad childhood. She can join Liu Bei to represent her own legacy as a Han woman.

Suddenly a knock was heard at the other side of her room. Liu Bei enters the room with a passionate smile. He is confidence with marriage difficulties like this because it’s nothing new, but Shang Xiang is acting like she’s the only woman there, which isn’t true.

“Shang Xiang…” Liu Bei thought.

“Are you leaving for Yi Zhou right now?” Sun Shang Xiang curiously questioned.

“Yes and before I go, there’s something you must hear from me, so please take it as a consideration,” Liu Bei cleared his throat and continued, “When I’m gone, you’re free to do whatever you want here, but that is up to you, Shang Xiang. I’m sorry that you can’t come with me to see Liu Zhang, but do not take this the wrong way,”

Sun Shang Xiang wonder why he’s letting her be all of sudden? Some of his officers haven’t trust her to freely express her desire to serve Liu Bei and how dangerously close she is with Liu Chan. The suspense is getting excessive.

“You want me to do whatever I wanted despite the amount of distrust of your advisors and my brother’s intention to getting us married? What’s the catch, Man of Virute?” Shang Xiang glared with amusement.

“When I last visited your home, I’ve learned alittle more about you. Xing Cai has been training herself to be quite a female warrior, since I’m encouraging women to be supportive with the men who serve my cause to restore the Han Dynasty. Even if it’s prohibiting, do not worry about Zhuge Liang or someone else. Zhao Yun will be watching you when I depart,” Liu Bei prepared to leave the room when he finishes talking.

Sun Shang Xiang mutter to herself that he’s bluffing and is putting her into a trap set by his strategist. If she did go and make her own rules around contributing this side, will they suspect she’s making a private army so that her brother can take advantage of Liu Bei’s absent and take Jing zhou. Or another scenerio would be how the people will dislike her independent behavior because she’s disrespecting the Han laws which turns out she’s an outlaw much like the people of Wu are referred as. Seriously, this era was plague by political confusion, plus Cao Cao made up his own Han laws that aren’t the ones her “husband” had enforced including the doings of pillaging by policy. Cao Cao on the other hand didn’t do it by policy.

After Liu Bei is completely out of sight, she quickly change her clothes and don her battle outfit then takes her bow and arrows and decided to go out for while, maybe teach Xing Cai some archery. Of course, there is Huang Zhong, but he’s with Liu Bei going to Yi Zhou.

Outside Jiang Ling castle…

“My Lord wait!” the voice of a male echoed.

Liu Bei knows that voice ever since he first met that man. The most complimentary thing about his bond with that man is inspiration, “Zhao Yun.”

“Why aren’t you bringing her with you? At least, let her come so she won’t suffer anymore as a stranger to us. I find nothing suspicious about her,” Zhao Yun urged.

“She might get the wrong idea about our plan of liberating Yi zhou. I have no regrets because this alliance with Liu Zhang is a plot unlike our alliance with Sun Quan,” Liu Bei shook his head.

“And if that did happen when she finds out, she’ll alert her brother about the threat of attacking Wu. But, what if she realize what our true intention to the expedition is?” Zhao Yun stared at Liu Bei on his defense to his big brother’s relationship with Shang Xiang.

“You believe that love can show trustworthy? Shang Xiang and I have not been married by love, but by questionable intentions from her brother. If what Zhuge Liang said is true about our marriage then something might arise to the solution. Until you find out what the solution is; I want you to watch over her when I’m gone,” Liu Bei then turn his horse back and prepare his journey to Shu.

“I know what Wu is plotting….” ZhaoYun thought. He scorn at how someone use it’s own sister as a mole without telling the true about why she is here in Jing. “She just doesn’t know and still been treated like a stranger which disrupt her behavior with my lord. What should I do?”

Later…

By nightfall, Liu Bei looked up the stars thinking about the women in his life including Sun Shang Xiang. Politics had caused a lot of problems with his relationship with women. He remembered persuading Zhao Yun to marry Lady Fan, but was denied because what Zhao Yun is true. Marrying someone as a trophy can really bring bad rumors about his leadership. But, what can a fine man live his life without a woman? He admit Zhao Yun is smarter than him so perhaps it’s a good idea to leave his marriage problems to Zhao Yun, hopefully Shang Xiang can settle her marriage life in peace.

“Shang Xiang, the true is…I really do love you, but as a friend for now. When this campaign is over, I shall bring you to Yi Zhou so we can start over. But, if you desire to return to Wu, what is the price of virtue to our marriage?” Liu Bei thought as the stars brighten lighter in the dark sky.

Next Pairing: Zhao Yun and Sun Shang Xiang

Chapter 10: Zhao Yun and Sun Shang Xiang


Jiang Liang again…

While Shang Xiang is still practicing her archery, Zhao Yun went to the government office in town to make some reports on the revenue. Inside, the only ministers there were Xiang Lang and Yi Ji, the two members of Liu Biao’s Jian An five. Getting more intact with politics, these men taught him casually.

“Lords, here’s the report for this month’s revenue. Minor taxes collected and the markets are starting to bloom after the battle of chi bi,” Zhao Yun set the documents on the table and stood waiting for their response.

After reading up the information, Yi Ji walk up to the one called ‘Little Dragon’ and pats his shoulder. Xiang Lang is satisfy by the results and went to write a memo for Zhuge Liang.

“Zhao Yun, well met!” Yi Ji grinned.

“I’m just doing my duty…” Zhao Yun shrugged.

“It’s not a duty, it’s an experience. I’m relieve to see someone who fought the impossible odds and rescued the young lord is starting to get an interest in politics,” Yi Ji returned to his seat and looked at the report once more.

“Since Cai Mao’s incompetent, our land had become an objection of the chaos. The very first thing to recover Jing is politics. Markets, farms, researchs, all of these have to be invest after the battle of Chi Bi,” Xiang Lang stated, as Yi Ji clears his throat to agree with his companion.

“That was when Jiang Ling vital to recover the fallen government, but the Sun Family had long wrestled for Jing after Chi Bi and Cao Cao will be making another Jing campaign while the state is still recovering from the previous incident Cai Mao had done,” Yi Ji added.

“So what must be done is to increase fortification to our borders. Guan Yu and Huang Zhong are working on the security across the three gorges,” Zhao Yun affirmed.

“I also heard that Zhuge Liang is working on a special project, so far, it’s a maze, but we have no idea why he’s planning to make a maze,” Yi Ji informed.

Zhao Yun looks puzzled by the latest gossips. The Sleeping Dragon is full of surprises and this is the first he heard. Now that his task is done, it’s time for him to keep an eye on Shang Xiang while his lord went to Yi Zhou.

“Oh, you’re about to meet the daughter of Sun Jian, right?” Yi Ji question brought Xiang Lang’s attention to Zhao Yun.

“Yes, is this about Shang Xiang’s mistrust in our force again or more outrageous suspicions from Kong Ming?” Zhao Yun stares at them grimace.

“Lets just leave that aside. We whole hearty wanted the lady to enjoy her stay and we’re really sorry about her brother and had nothing do with the assassination attempt of Sun Ce,” Yi Ji sighed.

Zhao Yun’s expression changes into a passionate smile of appreciation. People in Wu commonly see Liu Biao’s remnants as hostile, but Yi Ji and Xiang Lang are very nice people once you get to know them better. That’s why they support Liu Qi and helped Liu Bei survive. Will this change Shang Xiang’s attitude towards the ministers? The woman’s temper is interesting to Zhao Yun’s encounter with women, especially Zhen Ji, Lady Fan, Cui Lan, and several other women.

“She’s a tomboy type, not many women I’ve met were like her and Xing Cai seems to really like her,” Zhao Yun thought.

Zhao Yun return to Jiang Ling castle to ask where Sun Shang Xiang is and from what the guards inform him, the lady recently went to practice archery. She must be at the barracks, so it’s not far from the castle.

The Barracks…

She didn’t get a strain from releasing the arrows every time she shoots. She was called the Bow Princess because her archery displayed when Liu Bei challenged her into 10 shots, but he didn’t beat her because of how good she is with that skill and her mother praised her potency. Of course, she still uses her chakrams, but her bow is best.

“Ah, I expect to find you here, my lady,” Zhao Yun crossed his arms and watch Shang Xiang continue her practice.

“Isn’t this stalking…?” Sun Shang Xiang smirked.

“Oh, do you don’t mind if I follow you where ever you go? It’s my duty to be on watch with your activities,” Zhao Yun said, not worried about anything that can cause this woman a bad mood.

“Everyone always watches over me. I can take care of myself now,” Sun Shang Xiang shoots her bow and the arrow hit bulleye.

“Can you take care of this?” Zhao Yun takes her bow and put an arrow with it as he turns to the target.

Shang Xiang watches the so-called “Dragon of Chang Shan” aiming the bow at the target. Just what does he want with her? She had deal with a lot of competition against men and this guy is no different.

“Just watch…” And Zhao Yun released the arrow as it hit Shang Xiang’s arrow that just darted at the bulleye and breaks into a half.

“….” Shang Xiang not surprised by the display, she’s anxious to prove this can be done in her way.

“Your spirit is most impressive for a woman who shows a lot to her abilities that equal men, but is it strong enough to last?” Zhao Yun sighed and looked at Shang Xiang.

“Hm,” Sun Shang Xiang felt like she’s done with archery and now must get back to her room before more lecture comes out of this man’s mouth.

“The lords have been taking care of so they won’t bother speaking of more bad rumors about you. Look Shang Xiang, I’m the only one who looks into you as someone in our side now. Please?” Zhao Yun moved closer to her to get a better look into the Princess.

“Will you excuse me, Lord Zhao Yun. I must get back into the castle. Tired and annoyed somewhat by the whole bull and my ‘husband’ left me here for nothing,” Sun Shang Xiang turns away and walked out of the barracks.

Bad start, she isn’t going to give him a chance to talk it out like friends. To her, he’s just like all men she encountered in Wu. Good thing, Wu never talked about Zhao Yun who saved a baby at Chang Ban or how he did the impossible surrounding Cao Cao’s legions. It’s best he want his fame underrated.

“Should I follow her to the castle just to make sure no incident occur?” he thought.

She thinks he’s a stalker…

“By the way…” Sun Shang Xiang turns back showing a naughty grin before she leaves him behind, “…that’s the most fascinating shot I’ve ever seen.”

“Believe me, it’s all about being in high spirit and I believe you can do it too, my lady,” Zhao Yun said.

“Err, I don’t know if I’m capable of it. It’s the first time I’ve seen that. Anyway, I better hurry back,” Sun Shang Xiang finally left the barracks. Zhao Yun chuckled and checked the target dummy he shot his arrow at.

“Two of a kind, Shang Xiang…” Zhao Yun sighed. Just how long it will last for the Bow Princess’s spirit. She’s strong, perhaps can be more of a match for second tier officers in the force and a valuable asset to restoring the Han.

Later that night…

She didn’t feel like sleeping after returning to her room. The whole hour she lay on her bed bored. When the maidens asked her to attend dinner, she utterly refused. Out the dining hall by herself with no one to join her for dinner is annoying. She’s still treated an outsider here.

“My lady, it’s Zhao Yun,”

It’s him again and the guy is so reliable it’s like her own bodyguard she employ. At least, this can get rid of her boredom.

“Come in,” Hopefully, something good comes out of the stalker.

“I spoke to the maids, you haven’t eaten anything and stayed at your room for the rest of the evening. I wanted to know if you’re alright?” Zhao Yun said.

“I’m fine and don’t feel like eating,” Shang Xiang playfully twirl on her bed as her own bodyguard wannabe stare at her concerned.

“Um, will you like to eat dinner with me?” Zhao Yun asked.

“Seriously, I’m not hungry…go away,” Sun Shang Xiang scolded.

“Surely you don’t want to make up your mind and spend the rest of the month believing there isn’t anyone who you can trust. I beg you, Shang Xiang, please have company with me,” Zhao Yun bowed.

It’s strange when he’s the only one who looks into her highly as his new mistress. So she gets out of her bed and told Zhao Yun to look up in front of her.

“I will go, please don’t bow to an outsider since I’m not part of Liu Bei’s army yet,” Sun Shang Xiang said.

“You are a part of my lord’s army and his life…” Zhao Yun thought.

“Let me change my garments for a moment then we shall have dinner together,” Sun Shang Xiang went to change when Zhao Yun exit the room to wait at the hall.

Everything all set for tonight’s dinner. He didn’t tell her why he wants dinner with a married woman, but upon hearing from his lord’s request to watch over her, there isn’t anything scandalous of having dinner with Sun Shang Xiang as long as it doesn’t get too…you know what.

“She probably made up her mind again. No, I can’t assume anything she don’t want or want. I barely know her and so does my lord. Geez, why am I worrying too much?” Zhao Yun thought.

The beautiful figure before him comes out of the room dressed in fine qualities, rich with platinum silk. Zhao Yun is surprise to this unexpected appearance.

“Alright, shall we go?” Sun Shang Xiang crosses her arms humming.

Zhao Yun chuckled, this unusual to him. He didn’t tell her what kind of dinner it’d be and it’s really not in the dining room where royal nobles ate.

“What?! I dressed in proper formal and you’re laughing!” Sun Shang Xiang glared at Zhao Yun then she pass by him leading to the rest of the hall in the castle.

“Lady Sun, I haven’t told you where we’ll be eating dinner at, but from the dress you’re in, it’s not going to be in the dining room,” Zhao Yun continued chuckling.

“What do you mean!? I’m a noble woman and nobility should not be treated inappropriately!” Sun Shang Xiang urged

“Hahahahahahah, mi..milady, I assure you this wouldn’t be a bad way to treat you dinner. I want to invite you over at a friend’s house, well a sworn brother of mine. And speaking of nobility, tell that to a woman I know so well. She might agree with you a bit,” Zhao Yun laughed.

“Try me officer,” Sun Shang Xiang blink as the two stare at each other for a minute.

“Come, we’re going outside to the village. If you like, you can change to something more peasant,” Zhao Yun suggested.

“That’s alright, I like to look just like this. Lead the way,” Sun Shang Xiang said.

Zhang Fei’s house…

Zhao Yun didn’t escort her into a carriage rather they both rode on their horses to town and finally reach the house of his friend.

“Here we are, the house of Zhang Fei,” Zhao Yun gets off his white horse and went to help Shang Xiang get off her horse.

“Thank you, but I can handle this,” Sun Shang Xiang denied. She got off by herself and scoffed at Zilong.

“Tomboys…” Zhao Yun shook his head.

“What’s wrong with tomboys, aren’t they not attracting to warriors like yourself?” Sun Shang Xiang teased.

“Whatever…” Zhao Yun shrugged. He knocked the door hoping that lazy bum isn’t at his drunken antics again.

The door opens slowly and here’s the guy who is known as the strength of a thousand men. He’s tired and is surprise to see his little brother visiting him this late.

“Yide,” Zhao Yun grinned and Shang Xiang frowned, she’s not very fond of Zhang Fei as she heard rumors about him.

“Zhao Yun, why are you here at a time like this? It’s the middle of the damn night,” Zhang Fei yawned after he spoke.

“I’m here to ask you to make dinner for the two of us, the lady here and myself. We don’t want to disturb your family especially Xing Cai,” Zhao Yun said.

“Why of course, my brother’s ‘wife’ is here with you. Since some tards don’t wanna have dinner with the lady at the castle because of Zhuge Liang’s suspicions,” Zhang Fei smiled.

“It’s an honor to be invited with you Lord Zhang Fei,” Sun Shang Xiang bowed.

“Yeah, I heard you’re really a tough lady that my daughter is inspire. Please come in and I’ll cook up some delicious food. Zhang Fei the cooker is less known than the loud mouthed warrior I am,” Zhang Fei said.

An hour has pass as the three chatted about things and Zhang Fei spew Lu Bu jokes which some of them are plain insulting.

“And when I got up to the main base in Xia Pi, I met that idiot Lu Bu face to face. He was like all shocked and start cussing at himself and those who betrayed him. I said, ‘Aw shut the hell up, Lu Bu nobody gives a damn about your whining resolve, just die so the people will be happy, loser!’ Zhang Fei said.

The princess laughed as hard that can be heard at the other room where Zhang Fei’s family are sleeping. Xing Cai woke up and moan across the room to her father where she saw Zhao Yun and Sun Shang Xiang at the table with her father.

“Oh, Xing Cai. I’m sorry to have you wake up,” Sun Shang Xiang said.

“Oh, father, why are you always so loud? Hello, princess…” Xing Cai greeted.

“Children staying up late…” Zhang Fei whimpered.

“They have a larger span of heart condition. You lady Xing Cai will soon grow to be like a princess,” Sun Shang Xiang said.

“I…I don’t want to be a princess…” Xing Cai muttered.

“Well, thanks for the dinner, Fei. I must escort Lady Sun back to the castle and resume my duty as acting governor,” Zhao Yun straighten up his armory and walks out the door. Shang Xiang talked to Xing Cai a bit before she said good bye.

“Just one more year and I can finally fight in battles,” Xing Cai said.

“Xing Cai….” Zhang Fei really worries about his daughter’s choices for her future.

“We shall leave,” Sun Shang Xiang bowed.

After they left, Zhang Fei takes a deep breath and his daughter glare at him. Why does this always happen? Zhang Bao wants to be like him, Xing Cai wants to be like Sun Shang Xiang, but his new born child Zhang Shao doesn’t have any inspiration.

“Do you really think things will go in your way, my daughter?” Zhang Fei questioned.

“It’s my life. If Shang Xiang can be a warrior and fight, then I can too. Besides she’s a princess, but I don’t want to follow that concept. Most princesses are the same, they get married off to guys they don’t really fall in love with. You kidnapped my mother before when she so terrified of you,” Xing Cai said with a sad tone.

“But, that was a mistake. I was drunk and I thought my brother is dead. Taking your mom was the idea of an ransom, I admit, she doesn’t like me….” Zhang Fei said.

“Until….” Xing Cai crossed her arms.

“Until you and Bao were born, everything changes so fast and my brothers return. Really, I’m sorry baby, but you have to understand…we sworn an oath..” before Zhang Fei finished, Xing Cai cut him short.

“I have an oath myself, I sworn I’ll be the wife of Guan Ping and will fight along his side,” Xing Cai boldly stated.

Zhang Fei say no more and he walks to watch Zhao Yun and Sun Shang Xiang leave out of the village at the view.

“….my daughter, is it not the will of the heavens who chooses who be together with and who does not? I pray your oath will be fulfilled,” Zhang Fei thought.

Back in Jiang Ling castle…

“It’s a pleasure to be having peasantry dinner with you and Zhang Fei. Now I know how close Liu Bei is with his own brothers,” Sun Shang Xiang said.

“They’re best friends since the Yellow Turban revolt. I came very late to see the three of them and became brothers. They are my best friends now and forever,” Zhao Yun said.

They stop right at the hall where her room is. The two of them look at each other glancing. This is a very special night and it will never be forgotten. Zhao Yun wishes for the best with things between Liu Bei and Sun Shang Xiang.

“I couldn’t thank you enough for tonight. Will we have dinner again some other time?” Sun Shang Xiang asked.

“I don’t know, things are going to get very complex with my activities. Until Liu Bei returns to you, we can have a feast and the officers including Zhuge Liang will join. Maybe they’ll change their mind and accept you as part of our force and our lord’s wife,” Zhao Yun turns away from Shang Xiang getting ready to resume his duties, “Have a good rest, my lady.”

“…” Sun Shang Xiang open the door to get inside her room, not until she kicks something on the floor. She wonders what it is and looks down to find a scroll. Did someone just enter her room when she left?

“What could this be? It’s from my brother!” Sun Shang Xiang hurried to read the letter closes to the lantern.

Sun Quan brought the news about her mother’s illness, odd enough she thought long and hard to leave her family and accept a new life with Liu Bei, but her life in Wu is still considered home and her mother is the closes person in her life. There are two lady Wu’s who are sisters of Sun Jian’s veteran officer Wu Jing. Wu GuoTai’s elder sister died a few years ago when Sun Quan established Wu’s military and economic extension. That was when he now rallied his force against Huang Zu at Xia Kou. Lady Wu is willing to care her sister’s children as her own children along with Sun Lang and Shang Xiang.

Should she leave behind her “husband’s absence and return to Wu to see her mother. The rest of the letter inform that there is an unit ready to escort her back at the river and it has request her to bring Liu Bei’s son with her. Why bring Liu Bei’s son with her? Perhaps her mother wanted to see Liu Shan before she die? If she did bring Liu Shan with her without her “Husband” permission, will he become wrathful of her stealing the child? But, she intend to return to Jing zhou after the visit bring Liu Shan back. Is that ok with the Liu Bei army? What would Zhao Yun think?

“My mother doesn’t have enough time, so I promise myself to return with Au Dou,” Sun Shang Xiang thought.

She went to Liu Chan’s room and wakes him up. The kid is still drowsy from being awake. He glances at his stepmother seeing her lymphatic expression.

“Stepmother…” Liu Chan moaned.

“Liu Chan, I want to bring you with me to visit my family. However, will you like to go or stay as the maidens take care of you while I’m gone?” Sun Shang Xiang asked.

Liu Chan spends a lot of time with tutors and with Xing Cai. But, had no idea about her family more sincerely her brother’s intentions.

“I want to go,” Liu Chan innocently answered.

Shang Xiang wish the boy decides to stay so she’ll have no trouble not wanting to bring him. Well, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to allow Liu Bei’s son see her side of her family.

They soon left the castle as dawn is about to come in the morning. She has to make it before daylight because there is no way she can bring Liu Chan with her during that period. However, what she didn’t know is that a scout just a couple of meters away from her and the suspicious ship at the bank hurried to Jiang Ling and informs the news.

The government office…

Zhao Yun returns to work another few hours before he takes his long break from working night shifts and reporting income. Zhang Fei will be taking care of the rest in the morning, as are the ministers and Zhuge Liang. So far, nothing happened out of ordinary and his ladyship is very cooperative and trustworthy. She can trust him and he can trust her. That’ll be the same with his lord. He may not have seen her brother Sun Ce in person, but he can relate to him in a lot of ways that makes her happy to have another brother figure.

“Ren…I wonder if you have a sister or you’re the only female relative to the Sun surname? Perhaps a cousin I can marry? Wait! What am I thinking, I’m in love with someone else from another opposing side! Shouldn’t be thinking about marriage, must restore the Han dynasty and save those that are needed. Don’t have time for such things as marriage, but marriage isn’t bad and I know love,” Zhao Yun thought. He is struggling to settle down a normal life or the life of a…true hero.

The scout finally arrives at the office to tell the troubling news. Zhao Yun changed his emotional look into the look of an emotionless warrior.

“Sir, there’s a suspicious ship docked at the bank near the port, the flag banners were red so it’s Wu’s ship,” the scout reported.

“What?! You mean, Wu has already arrived in Jing. They’ve been here for a while just to inspect the lady’s activities, but why did they dock near the bank and not the port? Hmm, something’s not right…” Zhao Yun choked. He figured if Zhuge Liang’s suspicions are true, then he can’t allow it to be. Lady Sun is not a bad person and Wu wouldn’t think about scheming behind her just to make things worst between her and Liu Bei’s followers. Besides, Zhao Yun is the only one most amicable with Sun Ren.

Suddenly a maiden shows up later after the report of the suspicious ship. She tries to catch her breath as the running from the castle to the governmental office seemed like a 1-mile race.

“It..It’s the young lord. He’s gone, yet nobody knows where he’s been taken and the lady has disappear from her room!” the maiden alerted.

“Then there’s no time. Inform Zhang Fei, I will go after the lady and the young lord,” Zhao Yun said. He sheaths the Sword of Light and takes his Dragon Spear.

The two other people went to spread the news. Some officers become urgent to the word and they hurry to meet Zhao Yun and find that ship. Zhang Fei gets the news and quickly went to get a ship to block their escape route from the bank. He warn Xing Cai to stay in the house, but she too is concern about Sun Shang Xiang and Liu Shan.

At the suspicious Wu ship…

Sun Quan ordered one of his officers to go out there and escort her back. The officer went out of the ship to the surface to await his lady’s return with the child. One of his scouts reported that a carriage is heading its way to their position and it appears to be Lady Sun’s carriage. Of course, the child is with her. As they stop to their destination, she gets off the carriage and met face to face with the officer.

“Good morning, milady. Lord Sun Quan has prepared a fleet in voyage our safe travel back to Wu,” The officer said.

“Thank you, please lead the way,” Sun Shang Xiang ordered. But Liu Chan now become started by Sun Quan’s army. Shang Xiang look down at the innocent boy and smiled.

“It’s ok, they’re nice people. You’ll likely get along with them,” Sun Shang Xiang said.

But, Liu Shan can not refrain from his fear and trauma ever since he learned about what happened to him as a baby being lost in the abyss of chaos and his mother died.

“Take me back…” Liu Chan whimpered.

“…” Sun Shang Xiang frowned. She has little time to remain in Jing Zhou and the sun is almost coming up.

“My lady, you must hurry and get on board. Men, prepare to move out!” the officer shouted.

“Come on, I promise to take you back after we go see mother,” Sun Shang Xiang assured.

Liu Chan nodded, but is still scare of the appearance of the Wu officer. It doesn’t make him comfortable and when he sees the lady guards reunite with Shang Xiang he becomes even more feared.

“These are my royal subjects I trained,” Sun Shang Xiang explained. But it doesn’t change Liu Chan’s fear into relieve.

Zhao Yun is just a few yards close to the bank as the sun is about to rise the light covered the supicious ship as he can see it’s about to sail it’s course to Yang zhou. He’s no too late to get there before the ship is completely out of range.

“Shang Xiang, wait!” Zhao Yun echoed. The officer can hear his voice as he urge his men to sail the boat faster.

“Is that somebody calling my name?” Sun Shang Xiang whispered.

“Milady, do not disturb yourself with such a mere voice. It’s just some ruffian trying to bribe his way into the ship. Please be firm and head inside the ship,” the officer said. She nodded and takes Liu Chan with her inside along with the lady guards.

When Zhao Yun gets closer enough to the docks, he carefully stood up on top of his horse standing on it while riding his way next to the ship moving out of the bank.

“Pegasus, just keep going boy,” he told his white horse, he likes giving his horse a Greek name because it was the greeks that first settled small colonies during the times before the Spring and Autumn era and finally the Romans the time before he was born and his father’s death.

“Archers! Shoot this man at once!” the officer command. The man before him is becoming a nuisance. The archers did a poor attempt to shoot Zhao Yun since his horse was manual perfectly and it’s the traditional Zhao style cavalry bow defense.

“Damn, does Sun Quan really intent to get his sister back by persuading her to take Liu Chan as a ransom or does the lady brought the young lord at her own will?” Zhao Yun thought. He sees the cliff next to the river where it can be use to jump his way into the ship’s bridge as he rode there and dismount his horse and jumps off the cliff landing on the ship.

“The enemy! The enemy is on board in the ship!” some random soldier shouted.

“How dare you trespass the royal escort, commoner!” the officer snarled. He unsheathe his sword and walks slowly to Zhao Yun who is struggling with the option to attack at will or not. He doesn’t like attacking his own allies, he hates fighting those on the side of good, Wu and the Sun family wasn’t meant to be the enemy. The enemy is obviously Cao Cao and those who corrupted the Han dynasty.

“Stand down, I’m here to warn the princess!” Zhao Yun insisted.

“Lady Sun does not want to speak to such a ruffian like yourself. Now leave her and mind your own business,” the officer warned.

“My business is the young lord and the wife of the imperial uncle and I, Zhao Yun , acting Prefect of Jiang Ling charge you with attempt of disruption! You’re in our jurisdiction, now halt this ship!” Zhao Yun’s rage fills his judgment. If Zhuge Liang is here, it’ll be a lot worse like provoking the wrath of God

“What did you say!” the officer prepares to charge at an enemy he’s no match for. Luckly, Shang Xiang overheard the ruckus and storm out o