by Kedriaa
Disclaimer: GW characters do not belong to me. No monetary profit gained through this venture - just an ample amount of self- satisfaction and self-indulgence.
<"..."> spoken in Cantonese
The stares that he had been getting all afternoon were positively unnerving. He hoped that the gods would be merciful and let him go unscathed that evening. So far, they have been.
Almost immediately after Mei-Ran witnessed the exchange between he and the rival lead, Kok Wah and Ken Li came over to bodily drag the heroes of the day to join in the celebration. Mei-Ran had been tactful enough not to cause a scene by questioning Wu Fei in front of the others. And through the celebrating and the hero-worship they received, Wu Fei had managed to avoid any one-to-one moments with Mei-Ran.
It was almost dinnertime and he had specific instructions to be home for that. If he could get across the front courtyard without being jumped, Wu Fei would be home free.
<"WU FEI!">
Damn the gods!
<"Yes, Mei-Ran?">
<"Don't play games with me, you may have managed to avoid me all afternoon but you're not getting away with this. Tell me or I'll tell Father what I heard.">
<"Mei, you know that threat does not work on me anymore. We started out on a really good note today, please, I don't want to spoilt it with another one of our pointless arguments,"> Wu Fei implored, his well learned charm - lessons courtesy of big brother - was being pushed to the limit. By the looks of it, it was working, <"I promise to tell you about it later, but right now I need to get home before my Father realises I'm missing.">
<"What? I thought your brother said you had permission.">
<"That's my brother you're talking about, do you really believe that? He's taken responsibility of my leaving, that's all I need to care. Good night, Mei-Ran. I had a really good time,"> Wu Fei gave her his most charming smile and leaned over to return her peck on the cheek before heading home.
A small smile played across his lips. He could scarcely believe he had just 'won' the last argument by employing charm instead of force. He giggled to himself feeling a little bit like a tart; it certainly had been a good day. It would have been better if he didn't have to go home to face the madness synonymous to his family dinners. Wu Fei shrugged and thought - you can't win them all.
Just as he rounded a corner a voice snapped his attention, "You're looking rather pleased with yerself. But if I did what you did today, I would be to."
From the budding shadows of sunset stepped a black clad figure with a black eye and the unmistakeable Irish-English accent.
"Duo!"
"That's what they call me, mate."
"Where you go?"
"What? Yesterday? I didnae want to get you and your Master inta trouble. 'Sides, if I were dying he'd have done more than put stuff on me bruises and cuts."
"No trouble."
"Thanks, mate, I 'preciate it and all. That's what I'm back here ta tell you."
"You are welcome. Why you out?"
"Chinese New Year is a time of celebration! I ain't gonna sit by the docks when all the action is happening out here!"
"Yes, New Year a good time. You see much?"
"I saw the ... um ... thing you were doing in the square."
"Lion Dance."
"Lion Dance? That didnae look like lions t'me. Then again, who am I t'say. I ain't seen a lion meself," Duo laughed, "Anyway you look great. 'Specially they way you rescued the damsel in distress."
Wu Fei frowned and shook his head, not understanding what Duo meant. The Irish lad laughed again and waved, dismissing his statement. "Hey, you wanna come down to the docks to see my part o'town? Do a little celebrating o'our own?"
"Yes, later. Now, I go home for dinner. My father angry if I am late."
"Well, off you go then!" Duo began ushering him away, "Just get to the warehouses on Pier 23, I'll find ya," With that, the enigmatic boy disappeared into the darkness of an adjacent the alley.
As Duo disappeared, Wu Fei remembered the cross in his pocket. He contemplated calling after him but decided against it. Duo was not supposed to be out here, the shroud of twilight was barely over the streets and he was late as it is. The Chinese boy shrugged, returning Duo's cross would wait till they met up later.
If Wu Fei owned a clock, he knew he would be clock-watching. Dinner was entirely too long and people didn't seem to want to go to bed that evening. He had tried to get his father and uncle drunk again but they were not very complying. Wu Fei suspected that they were still suffering from a hangover.
<"Master Wu?"> a young girl bowed before him. He did not recognise her, perhaps she was part of his uncle's staff.
<"Yes?">
<"The Lady Pui San has requested for your audience,"> she said, barely above a whisper. She looked petrified. Wu Fei could only guess why.
<"Where is she?">
<"In the inner courtyard, Master Wu,">
<"Thank you, tell her I'll be there shortly,">
The girl dipped deeper and retreated. Wu Fei frowned; he hated such overtly expressed respect that bordered on veneration. He did not believe that just because he was the son of a Manchu General, the general public had to worship the ground he walked on. Wu Fei shrugged mentally and walked over to his brother who was sitting with some of their cousins talking and drinking.
<"Brother, I need a favour,"> he whispered into Kim Fei's ear.
<"What another?>" Kim Fei teased, then excused himself from his group. The brothers moved to a quieter corner of the room, <"What is it?">
<"I just need to go out later. Can you do ... um... the usual?">
<"The usual?"> Kim Fei chuckled, <"To the docks again?">
Wu Fei nodded and smiled sheepishly.
<"Met someone interesting? I thought you only had eyes for Mei-Ran.">
<"Oh goodness sake! Is that all you ever think about?"> Wu Fei rolled his eyes, <"In case you haven't forgotten, the Western women and girls weren't allowed to disembark!">
<"So? That doesn't mean anything. You aren't supposed to go to the docks and you still do!">
<"Look, are you going to help me cover or not?"> Wu Fei demanded impatiently.
<"Calm down! Have I ever disappointed you?">
<"Thank you,"> Wu Fei smiled, <"Aunt Pui San wanted to see me. I'd better go,">
Kim Fei nodded and headed back to his group. Wu Fei wondered why his aunt wanted to talk to him. He padded silently into the inner courtyard and found his aunt staring up at the sky. Astronomy was one of her many passions.
<"Aunt Pui San?">
She jumped and almost fell out of her chair, <"Gods! Wu Fei!"> she steadied herself, <"Must you creep up on me?">
<"Creep up?"> Wu Fei tried to stifle a giggle, <"I wasn't creeping! I can't help it if stealth was part of my training. I'm just doing what comes naturally.">
<"Yeah, yeah! Go on! Laugh, I can see you're going to burst if you don't!">
<"I'm sorry. The expression on your face..."> Wu Fei lost his fight against the giggles.
<"Hey! Show some respect, misfit!">
Wu Fei straightened and gave his aunt a deep bow, not unlike the one he received some moments ago, <"Yes, Lady Pui San,">
Pui San rolled her eyes, <"The older they get the cheekier they become! It must be the Chang blood; your brother is no better! I swear Chun is becoming more like you each day.">
<"He's your son, Aunt, he's becoming more like you not me!"> Wu Fei grinned as he sat down opposite her.
<"Now, I don't know if that's a good or bad thing!"> she joked, half-serious, then shrugged, <"Anyway I didn't call you here to talk about my son. I wanted to talk about you.">
<"ME?">
<"Yeah, you're hiding something,"> she lowered her voice to a whisper and added cheekily, <"C'mon you can tell your aunt your little secrets.">
<"What makes you say that?"> Wu Fei tried to feign innocence.
<"Hah! Ever since you came back from your afternoon escapade you've been walking on air! I'm not blind you know. There's love in the air!">
<"What's with you and Brother?"> he frowned, <"Are you to working together to against me?">
<"Kim Fei's asking the same thing too?"> she asked with a smug look on her face, <"Well that just confirms it. It's that girl under the Lion wasn't it? What's her name?">
<"Gods, you both are impossible!"> Wu Fei got up and started pacing.
<"You're so cute when you get angry. The fact that you're so defensive about the whole thing, proves beyond a doubt that you have just come to terms about your feelings about her.">
<"Oh, Aunt Pui San! Stop torturing me!">
Pui San laughed, <"You don't have to kneel before me, Wu Fei! Just tell me what I want to know and you're free to go.">
Wu Fei eyed her skeptically, <"You must be really bored, Aunt.">
<"You try being a kept woman and then tell me if you get bored or not!"> she huffed, <"Soon wouldn't let me bring any of my books. And yet he insisted that I bring some ten pairs of shoes for a four-day trip! Men are worse when it comes to appearances and vanity. Don't be like that, Wu!">
Wu Fei tittered, <"I know what you mean, but if you really are bored you can always use my library. I don't have as comprehensive a collection like yours but you are always welcome.">
<"Nice try, misfit! Sit!"> Pui San smirked, <"Tell me all about her!">
<"On one condition,"> the young Chang began to turn the tables to his favour.
<"Oh-ho! We're negotiating are we? Right, let's hear it then.">
<"I need to be ... out tonight. Help me get out and provide cover and I'll tell you all you want to know. I don't think Kim Fei is going to be able to do it on his own. There's a lot of people in the house tonight.">
<"Oooo..."> Pui San was lapping up the rebellious aura that was emanating from Wu Fei, <"You've got yourself a deal. I want to know where you're going though. If you're doing something illicit - ">
<"Aunt! Give me a little credit. It's not against the law. It's just against the house rules. I'm going to the docks.">
<"Docks, eh? The foreign bug has bitten you?">
<"No thanks to you! I met someone yesterday and I want to meet him again. That's all.">
<"You were out yesterday? How did you manage?">
<"Every one was drunk and the children had worn themselves out playing. Tonight people seem too hell bent on having a quiet night!">
Pui San chuckled, <"Yes I can understand that. I've still got a hangover. Anyway, we're getting off topic. Tell me about your girl.">
<"My girl?!"> Wu Fei's eyes widened then shook his head. <"Hardly! Not yet anyway but don't say that in front of her, Aunt. I won't live to see the next sunrise if you do!">
<"Oo! You Chang men love feisty ones, huh? Your mother was like that too.">
<"Indeed, we're all glutton for punishment!"> Wu Fei smiled and began to tell Pui San all about Mei-Ran. Their escapades, their fights, their more civil moments and most of all what he saw today, what he felt and how Mei-Ran reacted to him.
Before that year, Wu Fei had not had such a cosy conversation with his aunt. Wu Fei wondered why they had not cultivate a closer relationship earlier. She was the most down to earth and sensible of all the Chang wives. Like his mother, she was the feisty one of the lot and from what he understood they got along really well before his mother's death.
Wu Fei did not remember much about his mother, Suet Wan. He was very young when she passed away. Hoi Yee told him some stories about her and her escapades. She wasn't as impetuous or rebellious as Pui San but she was no conventional woman either. She too had managed to escape the horrors of having her feet bound and she was also a student of the martial arts. Suet Wan was well read and educated beyond the subjects of music, embroidery and calligraphy. She would've have been a recognised and respected scholar were she not a woman. General Chang valued her as a wife and well as his personal advisor. Hoi Yee had often said that Wu Fei was truly his mother's son.
Wu Fei was unsure when he did it, or how for that matter, but he had managed to get Pui San to talk about his mother instead of he talking about Mei-Ran.
Su Yin had been jealous of Suet Wan because of her close relationship and somewhat equal partnership with the General. Unlike Su Yin who was made to marry the General through the orders and arrangement of their parents, General Chang CHOSE to take Suet Wan as his second wife. Suet Wan, to say the least, was not thrilled at the prospect of being married to a Manchu Official. She did not relish the lifestyle of the wife of an aristocrat. Suet Wan preferred the simple life with her books and her practice in herbal medicine, not one filled with rich brocade, silk and satin, mindless embroidery and child bearing.
Every parent wanted his or her daughter married into a good house. And although Chang Jung could've taken her for a wife at the drop of her hat, he was determined to win her over and make her want to marry him.
The General was relentless, similarly Suet Wan, stubborn. Eventually through poetry, gifts of literature and promises of no more than one child every five years, the ice maiden of Canton gave her heart to the dashing young official who would rise above his station.
<"If my mother was a student of kung fu why did Father not want me to study it?">
<"Because your mother was looked down upon for her unseemly ways,"> Pui San sighed, sharing the pain of prejudice, <"People are so fickled. Kung fu masters were once revered, practically worshipped. Then someone within the aristocracy decide that it was no longer fashionable and the rest of the world decides it was barbaric and uncivilized! I am glad that you are able to study it. Suet Wan would've been disappointed if you had not studied it. She would've been proud of you.">
<"I know. Mother Hoi Yee tells me that all the time. I only wish Father would be too.">
<"Wu Fei!"> Pui San reached over to grasp his hands, <"Don't for a second believe that he isn't proud of you. He is. Your father is a proud man, he doesn't do things like emote - your uncle is the same. It's just not the traditional Chinese way. Don't be too hard on yourself, Wu Fei. You are a brilliant young man and I believe in you. We all do. Even your father.">
<"Thank you, Aunt Pui San.">
<"Any time, misfit!"> she smile maternally at him, <"Right then, I'm sure you've had enough of your nosy aunt here. Let's go do something about getting you out to your twilight rendezvous, eh?">
The night was relatively young when Wu Fei got the opportunity to slip out unnoticed. Somehow, Pui San managed to get his father and uncle to bed while Kim Fei had challenged the older Chang children to drink themselves to a stupor. The younger ones had already been sent to bed earlier.
Wu Fei, somewhat excited in seeing Duo again, raced to the docks. It had been hours after dinner, he hoped that Duo was didn't tire in waiting for him to show.
Silently, Wu Fei slipped of the rooftops and emerged from the alley. He made his way to Pier 23, making sure he did not go past Pier 49. He wouldn't be surprised if Master Yong's disciples were there waiting. Wu Fei had made it clear that the duel was pointless, he was not avoiding them, he just didn't want to spend the New Year cultivating any negative emotions.
The docks were unusually quiet for that time of the night. Wu Fei wondered where everyone was. Perhaps they had decided to take the night off as well. The Chinese boy waited patiently for the Duo to come meet him.
"Hey!"
Wu Fei turned around to the source of the voice and found Duo crouching on some crates. "Um... hello,"
Duo giggled, "Hello, yes! Have you been waiting long?" Duo jumped off and walked to Wu Fei.
"No, not long. Sorry, I late."
"Aw, hell no! The shindig's just beginning. C'mon!"
"What?"
"Shindig, hootenanny, party. Y'know, music, dancing and beer. We gwailo's are always looking for an excuse t'get drunk,"
"You know new Cantonese word," Wu Fei said somewhat amused that he referred to himself as a white devil.
Duo laughed out loud, "Yes I did. I'm a pretty fast learner. Maybe you can teach me more?"
"Yes, you teach me too?"
"Of course! What's gwailo mean anyway?"
"The white devil."
"The white devil? Excellent! I like that."
"Why? It is not ... nice."
"You mean insulting? Nah! They're just words. I dunno 'bout the others but I think it suits me just fine! Enough talk, mate, now we eat, drink and be merry," Duo began ushering Wu Fei towards the party venue.
"Where we go?"
"To Pier 49, that's where we've set up the place for an all-night drinking binge,"
Wu Fei froze. This was not good, he thought. Of all the damned warehouses on the harbour front why did they have to choose that particular one? His mind began conjuring all sort of trouble Master Yong's disciples were undoubtedly cause. But what could he do?
"Geez, man you look like you've seen a ghost! You okay?"
"Huh?" Wu Fei snapped out of his mini trance, "Yes. Why Pier 49?"
"'Cause there's an unused warehouse there and tis big enough fer all o'us to swing a cat in."
Judging by the howl of laughter that Duo let out, Wu Fei must have looked more perplexed that he thought. Duo was stranger that Wu Fei initially thought. Nevertheless, he was great company, with that big smile and jovial eyes, the long braid, the never-ending chatter and his array of strange and colourful euphemisms.
As they neared Pier 49, the tranquil night air was shattered by the beat of lively music. Duo broke out into a bounce when the warehouse was in sight, bounding up to the doorway. Wu Fei chuckled and ran after him.
"Just stick with me!" Duo raised his voice, the music permeating through the thin walls of the warehouse, "And don't drink anything anyone offers you!"
"Okay," Wu Fei said.
"Hey, hey! New word from you too!" Duo flashed him a big grin and led him into the warehouse.
The sights and sounds that greeted him were somewhat overwhelming. There were at least a hundred people packed in the warehouse. A band was playing in the corner, some were singing - quite awfully out of tune Wu Fei noted, a long table at the far end was filled with bottles, kegs, tankards and an assortment of snacks while people sat on every surface available drinking, eating and being merry.
"Now this is a party eh?"
"What do you do?" Wu Fei a little out of place.
"What do you mean what do you do?" Duo looked at him like he had grown another head, "You have a good time, that's what you do! C'mon let me introduce you to a good mate o'mine,"
Duo dragged the Chinese lad across the warehouse toward the makeshift bar, "Chang, meet my good mate - beer!" Duo lifted the tankard he filled and shoved it under Wu Fei's nose. Wu Fei grimaced; the smell of this so call beer was none too pleasant.
"What? Did I say your name right?"
"Yes," Wu Fei inched backward from the pungent liquid, hoping that Duo wouldn't be too offended, "Family name Chang; I Wu Fei."
"Sorry, you've got your names wrong way round!" Duo giggled as he took a swig.
"Tradition," Wu Fei shrugged nonchalantly, "Family always first, so name first."
"I see. Makes sense. You want some?" The tankard came flying into Wu Fei's face again. Quick reflexes didn't fail him as he held his hand out to stop Duo.
"No, thank you."
"Suit yerself!" Duo drank heartily giving himself a little foam moustache. The Irish lad then suddenly cried out, "Hey Connor!" and bounded over to a redhead boy who looked up. Wu Fei followed suit. He was already out of place as it is, receiving plenty of curious glances when Duo dragged him across the warehouse, he didn't want to look foolish standing by the bar on his own.
Wu Fei could hardly follow the conversation Duo was having with the group Connor was with. The music was loud, the accents were thick and they were talking too damned fast. Duo was having fun drinking and jesting with his friends but Wu Fei was getting bored. After the initial excitement of being in a new environment had worn off, Wu Fei just felt like a noddy standing there. Just as his mind and gaze began to wonder he realised that the whole group was staring at him. A slight blush began to tint his cheeks. He looked over to Duo, the braided boy beamed at him.
"Du... Duo?" Wu Fei stuttered a little. He hadn't a clue what just happened, and if they were expecting something from him.
"Don't worry about it, mate! These bumpkin are just being rude," Duo slapped him on the back, then steered him away from the crowd, "Let's leave them be. You look lost."
"Lost?" Wu Fei asked as they settled into a quieter corner.
"Well, you do kinda stick you like a sore thumb, I can understand that. I feel that way when I'm sneaking out even though the streets are practically deserted."
"It is okay," Wu Fei smiled, suddenly remembering the cross in his pocket he fished for it, "I have something for you."
"Oh, mate!" Duo cried out in joy, clasping the silver crucifix firmly in his hand, "I've been looking for that! I thought I had lost it in the alleyway when those pillocks were beating me up. Where did you find it?"
"Master Ron's room, after you left,"
"Thank you so much! This means the world to me."
"What is it?"
"Hmm?" Duo put the cross back where it belonged, around his neck, "The cross? You mean what it represents?"
Wu Fei paused, processing Duo's words before nodding.
"Well, to many people it a symbol of the Catholic God. To me, it's a symbol of family and mortality. The person who gave this to me was the first person to show me what love is. He took care of me when no one else would, loved me when no one else bothered to. He died years ago, this is all I have left of him," Duo cast a quick glance at Wu Fei, this time his smile seemed a little bitter, "Ach! Listen t'me. Tis a time of celebration and I'm moping! Here's to the new year and t'new friends!"
Duo down his beer and continued to chat animatedly. Well, it was more akin to Duo talking and Wu Fei trying very hard to understand him. Notwithstanding, Wu Fei was enjoying himself. He was beginning to like this party. Occasionally, someone would do something silly like stand in the middle of the room on a table and sing a solo piece horribly out of tune or challenge another to drinking three tankards of beer I under a minute. It was fascinating to watch the interaction.
They seemed to have no inhibitions like the Chinese culture dictated. They spoke to each other in a manner which his culture would deem disrespectful. However, Wu Fei did not see it as that. They were merely expressing themselves freely and openly. Something that was sorely lacking in the Chinese society. Wu Fei understood why Pui San loved the Western social hierarchy, or the lack of thereof.
"Hey, Fei!" Duo leaned over to him, "Seems like there's a few Chinese lads outside being prats. Maybe you can help?"
Wu Fei groaned inwardly knowing very well who the troublemakers were. Since it was essentially his fight Wu Fei nodded to Duo and strode purposefully out the door. Sure enough four boys were facing off a couple of burly blondes. Wu Fei wondered if they were cocky or simply stupid for taunting men twice their size.
Duo whizzed past him toward his friends, "Hey, Jimmy, Mick! My friend here will sort it out! FUCK ME!" Duo cried as he saw the boys, "Tis them!"
"Who?" Mick asked, "Them the bastards that gave you th'black eye?"
"Too right, mate! Look here, you prick," Duo advanced, "Yer in my turf now! You ain't gonna catch me unaware this time. Bugger off!"
The lead dancer sneered at Duo, eyeing him with contempt, <"I don't know what you're saying, cur, and I don't care! You're not worthy of my time!">
<"As you are not of mine,"> Wu Fei replied, hand on Duo's shoulder, "Duo, this is my fight. You wait."
"What? You can't take them on yourself!"
Wu Fei shook his head and repeated himself.
<"CHANG! You traitor! You speak the language of the devil and you would defend him? You are a coward to be hiding among these gwailo!">
<"If anyone is hiding, it is you,"> Wu Fei replied mocking his opponent, <"I came alone only to find that the Westerners have decided to have a party here. They are not with me. You, on the other hand, came with three of your lackeys. Are you so afraid you can't defeat me on your own and you would need the numbers to overpower me?">
The boy spat, <"Words! That's all you're good at. Nothing but useless words! You're weak!">
<"That's really strange coming from someone whom I defeated earlier today.">
<"That was only a game, child's play! That was nothing!">
<"Perhaps it was no more than a game, but the bottom line is - you LOST. It must be a devastating blow for your ego especially if you think that it was nothing,"> Wu Fei's calm and composed nature was getting the better of the boy.
Wu Fei was determined to avoid a fight but that would be wishful thinking. Nevertheless, he would not throw the first punch.
<"Asshole!">
"Fei! What's going on?" Duo interrupted.
"He wants fight. I don't. He challenge, I say yes so he leave you alone."
"You accepted a challenge to protect me?"
"Yes."
"Aw, man! Why didn't you tell me?"
"Not important anymore. He is Black Lion dancer. I am better; I have won the challenge."
"He was the sod that almost hurt your lady? Fei, mate, beat the shit outta him, if you don't I sure as hell will!" Duo began advancing again.
"No!" Wu Fei placed both his hands on Duo's chest to stop him, "I will stop him my way. Please stay?"
<"Eh, CHANG! Shut up and put up. I haven't got all night!">
<"Why are you so eager to be humiliated again?">
<"SHUT UP!"> the boy surged forward with a flying kick. Wu Fei side stepped him gracefully and countered, making the boy connect with the wooden floor painfully.
<"That was a pathetic attempt.">
The boy growled, got to his feet and launched a string of attacks on Wu Fei, which Wu Fei countered with contemptible ease. Wu Fei almost laughed. He could see that the boy possessed a good measure of skills in the art but was too blinded by rage. After going on the defensive, Wu Fei retaliated and managed to catch the boy in his chest, sending him flying.
<"Are you satisfied yet?">
<"Fuck you!"> The fires of hell flared in his eyes as he got to his feet, <"Don't just stand there like idiots! GET HIM!"> he bellowed at his companions.
Wu Fei shifted his attention to the advancing three. The lead dancer jumped into the fray soon after his lackeys attacked. Wu Fei blocked and countered the first few attacks with little effort but he found it more difficult in gaining the upper hand. He had anticipated the group to attack simultaneously but it was more difficult than he realized. Even in a situation like so he found himself making mental notes on how to improve his kung fu practise!
Out of the corner of his eyes he noticed a blur whoosh past him taking one of his opponents down. It was Duo! Wu Fei hoped that Duo would not hurt himself too much. He spared Duo a quick glance; the braided Irish was doing well with his one-on-one. Wu Fei then hoped that Duo would not hurt his opponent too much!
His diverted attention proved to be a mistake when one of his attackers had managed to land a kick on him. Caught unaware, he failed to block the next few punches. He knew he had to put some distance between him and his assailants before he could regain his composure. He dropped and rolled out of reach. Just as he brought himself to his feet another figure dropped in front of him.
<"Hardly seems fair, three against one. Can I join in the fun?">
<"MEI-RAN?!"> Wu Fei grabbed her arm and pulled her behind him, <"What the hell are you doing here?!">
<"Saving your neck, Chang! DUCK!">
Wu Fei made no protest and ducked. As he did, Mei-Ran leap-frogged over him and kick two of their opponents in their jaws. Mei-Ran had managed to render one of the two she kicked temporarily down while she incapacitated the other with a succession of kicks. Wu Fei twisted around her and exchanged a few moves with the third before palming him in the face, giving him a bloodied nose.
The lead dancer, after regaining his composure, stood and centered on Mei-Ran, <"A girl should not be leading the lion!">
She snorted, <"Sore loser!">
<"Bitch!"> he screamed and lunged at her. Wu Fei rushed him instead; he was feeling strangely protective of Mei-Ran.
<"You are not worthy to worship the ground she walks on, coward! Touch her and I will kill you!"> Wu Fei growled, <"Mei, help Duo.">
Mei-Ran hurried over to Duo. The lead dancer tried another attack but Wu Fei successfully stopped him in his tracks.
<"Huh! Weak! You compromise yourself with caring about a girl!">
<"What I feel is of no consequence to you. Your lackeys have been disabled, if you do not wish to join them on the ground I suggest you concede defeat and never show your dishonourable face in my presence again!"> The temper that Wu Fei was infamous for was beginning to show. The boy had made a fatal mistake by threatening someone that Wu Fei cared for. If he was smart he would shut up and get out before Wu Fei's temper was completely out of its reins.
<"This is not over, Chang!">
<"FOOL!"> In one deft move, Wu Fei fell the boy and pinned him down with his foot firmly lodged under the boy's chin. Wu Fei towered over the boy and glowered at him, fury evident in the usually passive onyx orbs, <"Do not anger me any further. I am giving you a chance to salvage your dignity. I suggest you take it. Now, if you DARE come near any of my family or friends, I will personally make your life miserable. Do I make myself clear?">
<"...yes..."> the boy croaked.
<"This incident will go no further. If I hear anything about this ..." he applied a little more pressure on the boy.
<"...yes..."> he grimaced.
<"Good,"> Wu Fei released the boy, <"Get your sorry pathetic selves out of here!">
The four boys scrambled to their feet and helped each other stumble away from the enraged Dragon. Just as they disappeared into the darkness a loud cheer exploded into the night. Wu Fei spun around in astonishment; he had not realize that an audience had gathered to watch the fight. He felt his face go red yet again. He dropped his gaze to the ground unsure of what to do next.
"Fei! That was awesome, mate!" Duo bounced up to him, he sported a split lip. He swung his arm around Wu Fei's shoulder and addressed the crowd, "PEOPLE! This is my mate, Wu Fei! Is he great or what?!"
The crowd roared with laughter and toasted the embarrassed Chinese lad. Wu Fei couldn't resist bowing, eliciting another amused wave of laughter from his audience. With the entertainment of the night over, they retreated to the warehouse to continue their hootenanny.
Wu Fei, Mei-Ran and Duo were the only ones left. Wu Fei did not hesitate to barrel down on Mei-Ran as soon as the last of the audience disappeared behind warehouse doors, <"WHAT THE HELL WERE YOU THINKING?">
"Hey Fei, calm down," Duo did not need to understand the language to understand the message.
"No!" Wu Fei scowled, <"You could've been hurt! What are you doing out here at this time of the night anyway? When your father catches - ">
<"STOP shouting at me!!"> Mei-Ran could give a good as she got, <"My father will not know! Just like your father will not know! You tell on me, I'll tell on you!">
<"Gods! What the hell are you trying to prove anyway?"> He glared at her, their noses almost touching.
<"I wasn't trying to prove anything! I was saving you, moron! You should NOT have spared your attention to your friend! You should be paying attention to each fist and every foot coming your way.">
Wu Fei growled, <"I do NOT need you to tell me how to fight! What were you doing following me here? You just couldn't leave it alone, could you? Do my promises mean nothing to you?!">
<"First of all, you were careless! I have every right to tell you what you did wrong! Secondly, I wasn't following you, I was following THEM! Thirdly, your promises mean everything to me but nothing was said about me being here! And by the looks of it, it WAS a good thing I was here!">
<"You were following THEM?!"> Wu Fei eyes widen in a mix of horror and disbelief, <"HOW STUPID CAN YOU GET?! What if they found you following them? You could've been seriously hurt! Or ... worse!!!">
<"Don't call me stupid! And I'm not helpless!">
<"I NEVER said you were! GODS!!"> Wu Fei threw his arms up and paced. Mei-Ran turned her back on him.
"Hey! HEY! Calm down!" Duo cried then let out a low whistle, "Man, you two are something! Talk to me, Fei."
Wu Fei stopped pacing and took a deep breath, "She is stubborn and difficult. She follow them."
"Whoa! That wasn't a bright idea. The little lady packs a good punch, I give'er that but there were four o'them!"
"You tell her!"
<"What are you two talking about?!"> Mei-Ran demanded.
<"YOU!">
"Hey, c'mon!" Duo stood between them and offered his most charming smile, "Shouting at each other won't help. Calm down and talk to her. I would if I could. We should be celebrating, we kicked ass, mate! Be a man and apologize t'her for shouting at her. I hope you weren't calling her names!"
Wu Fei spluttered, "Me? She was wrong!"
"So? You don't know anything about women, do you?" Duo chuckled. "Look, Fei, I agree she was wrong to go after the pricks but you gotta remember she did it for you. And what really matters now is she's okay, right? What are you trying t'achieve by being mad at her? Yer only angry cuz you care. So stop being a wuss and kiss and make up!"
"Wuss?"
Duo guffawed. "Wimp, weakling."
"I not weak!" Wu Fei's scowl deepened.
"Show me!" Duo challenged then stepped away giving Wu Fei and Mei-Ran a little privacy. Wu Fei was about to protest but Mei-Ran interrupted.
<"What did he say?!">
<"Do you always have to demand everything from me?">
<"If I don't demand anything, I'll get nothing,">
<"That's not true,"> Wu Fei's voice softened, <"If you want something from me, all you have to do is ask,">
<"I...."> Mei-Ran, slightly taken aback by the sudden shift of mood, did nothing more than gape at him.
<"I'm sorry I shouted at you. I'm sorry I said you were stupid. I was just ... I just didn't like to think you would put yourself in danger.">
<"I'm sorry I shouted back, but you are so stubborn and ... chauvinistic! You know I can handle myself. You know I'm not weak.">
<"I have never once thought that you were weak, Mei. I was just afraid you would hurt yourself,"> Wu Fei took another step closer to her and gently hooked his finger under her chin, bringing her gaze to meet his, <"I .... I care,">
<"You... you do?"> a glimmer of hope flickered in her deep brown eyes.
<"Yes, very much so,"> Tentatively, Wu Fei lowered his trembling lips on to her soft, alluring ones. Feather like touches grazed virgin lips as they shared their first kiss. There were no fireworks, no earth shattering phenomenon and time certainly did not stop. There was just a slight tingling sensation and a giddy rush of excitement, but that simple chaste kiss brought them closer than they had imagined.
They broke away from the kiss, foreheads still pressing against each other and stood unmoving, revelling in the simplistic joy of each other's touch. Wu Fei inhaled deeply and found the slight scent of magnolia woven into Mei-Ran's hair intoxicating. All these years they spent fighting when he should've been admiring her, he had failed to see just how divine this creature in his arms was.
"All right, children," Mei-Ran and Wu Fei lost in each other jumped at Duo's voice. Hastily, they stepped apart, somewhat embarrassed. Duo continued, "Save it for later, huh?"
Wu Fei stupidly gaped at his friend's innuendo. Mei-Ran just knitted her brow questioningly. Duo chuckled.
"Well, I think introductions are in order," Duo bowed to Mei-Ran, "I'm Duo, you, pretty lady, are?"
<"He asked your name,"> Wu Fei whispered.
<"Oh!"> Returning his bow, she said, <"Ron Mei-Ran,">
"Ron Mei-Ran? Pleased to meet you. I just want to say that you were awesome, at the Lion Dance and beating th'shit outta those pricks,"
Wu Fei did his best to translate, sans Duo's colourful choice of words. Mei-Ran blushed and gazed at her shoes, not used to receiving compliments at all.
"Don't be shy, little lady. You are worthy of praise!" That only served to make Mei-Ran more embarrassed. "Okay, I think I've done enough damage to your lady, Fei. I'm going back to the party. I'm guessing you're gonna take Mei-Ran home?"
"Yes, it is late, we will go home. You come, you are hurt,"
"And get you two arguing about me again? Nah! I know she was less than thrilled about you dropping in unexpectedly with me. Go home, take care of her, I'll live!"
"Are you sure?"
"Positive, mate! Now go, scoot, scram!"
"I had good time. I see you again?"
"Me too, Fei. If spending time with you is going to be so exciting, you bet we'll meet up again. I'm always here, just ask for the braided gwailo and you'll find me!" Duo winked and promptly headed back to his waiting beer.
Wu Fei chuckled, slipped his hand into Mei-Ran's and led her back home. They walked home in companionable silence. Wu Fei thoughts were on the ramifications of tonight's events. Would the boy from Master Yong's school get him into trouble with his sifu? Did he seriously hurt them? Was it the last time he would have to face them? Did he really kiss Mei-Ran? Did she really kiss him back? What were they going to do about this now?
No matter how much Wu Fei ignored the fact or did not live like one, there was no denying that he was born an aristocrat. Mei-Ran, however, was not. How would his Father react to their relationship now? He knew Su Yin would not approve, but he couldn't care less what she thought. But what about Master Ron? Would he approve of them or force them apart as well?
The newfound joy suddenly melted into the depths of contention and Wu Fei shuddered at the thought of the objections and remonstration he and Mei-Ran could receive from his family and friends.
<"Wu?"> Mei-Ran asked after noticing his shudder.
<"Hm?">
<"What's the matter?">
<"Oh, nothing,"> he shrugged nonchalantly.
<"You were never good at lying,"> she giggled, <"That's why you always got caught and punished!">
He frowned, <"Oh! Is that how you get away with murder? Lying and playing the good girl?">
<"Oops! There goes my secret! But you're changing the subject. What's wrong?">
<"It's nothing you have to worry about,">
<"It's ... us, isn't it?"> she stopped walking.
Wu Fei said nothing but gazed into the depths of soft brown eyes. He whispered, <"Like I said, it's nothing you have to worry about,">
<"Wu Fei..."> she shied away from him, <"I know the kind of trouble you could get into for ... this,">
<"HEY!"> Wu Fei grasped her arm and pulled her into a fierce embrace, <"DON'T ever think that way! You know I don't care about that stuff. We'll work this through, I promise,">
Mei-Ran looked up into the eyes of her oldest and dearest friend and smiled, <"Your promises mean everything to me. But for now I think we should take it easy, take it slow. We don't need any grief just when we've just found each other, huh?">
<"Anything you say, pretty lady,"> Wu Fei dipped his lips onto hers. She welcomed him heartily. As they continued their journey home, Wu Fei's heart began to lighten and soar.
This New Year was by far the best he has had.
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