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
It was a beautiful early September morning. The air was cool and crisp, showing the first signs of autumn on its edge. There was a salty tang in the air and a faint smell of burning coal. Seaside trees swayed at the gentle urging of Zephyr. The sky was cloudless and the morning sun hovering above the horizon coloured the vast expanse of the ocean in brilliant shades of orange, red and yellow. As the tide rippled the calm waters, the sea looked like a pool of molten bronze.
Wu Fei couldn't help but wonder if this was the same sight that greeted Duo on the fateful morn that rendered them apart.
This day was his turn to leave the island. He could honestly say that he wasn't sorry to bid the place goodbye. Although the island gave him many happy memories, the painful moments, albeit fewer, far outweighed the good ones. It was on this island where he truly accepted the loss of his wife. And it was on this island that he lost his best friend.
A new beginning...
That was what he wanted. That was what Duo wanted. It looked like they both had their wishes.
The Chinese youth gaze distantly into the east wondering what the new colony of Hong Kong had for him. Would this new beginning usher in a brighter chapter in his life or would he continue to stumble in the dark, lost and alone?
When Zechs offered him this choice, Wu Fei snapped up the proposal with little hesitation. After all, what had he to lose?
He was unsure what exactly he would be doing in Hong Kong. Zechs told him that the provincial British government of the colony would value his presence and unique talents. Would he be able to take on such a responsibility? Did he have what it takes to fulfil the tasks that would be expected of him? If they believed in him, he certainly would try is best. Wu Fei was never one to give up.
He cast his memory back to the conversation he had with the Lieutenant a week ago.
"Ah, Wu Fei," Zechs greeted him warmly as he stepped into the garden, "Would you like a drink? I have a pot of Darjeeling brewing right here."
"Thank you, Zechs," he replied as amicable as possible. He understood in his head that it was not Zechs' fault that Duo left but convincing his heart was another matter. Nevertheless, he was determined not to snap at the Lieutenant for helping a friend, even if it meant unwittingly hurting another. Wu Fei was a bigger man than that.
"Please sit," Zechs gestured to the chair next to his own, "I am glad you could come."
"Miss Noin said you had something to tell me?"
"It is more akin to something to ask you." Zechs picked up the teapot and poured Wu Fei a cup. "As you know, Hong Kong has been ceded to the British Empire."
The Treaty of Nanking, which marked the end of the war and the beginning of a new alliance, had ceded the merchant isle to the British as part of compensation for the destruction of the confiscated opium. Apart from that, four new ports were now opened to all foreign merchants. The five ports known as 'Treaty Ports' included Canton, Shanghai, Amoy, Foochow and Ningpo.
"Yes, it is but a small price to pay for the end of the hostilities." Wu Fei shrugged nonchalantly.
"Pity your ruling elite are not as open-minded about this as you are." Zechs chuckled. "But we are not here to debate on that."
"What are we here to debate on then?" Wu Fei picked up his cup and took a sip.
"The future of the colony." The blonde smiled enigmatically. "We may have established a presence here for a while, but we never had a government in the waters of China."
"Go on."
"Britain and her servants are no strangers to colonies, but to build a secure and prosperous one we require the cooperation and the aid of those who know the local surroundings intimately.
"I have been involved in British-Chinese relations ever since I took a post in the Far East. As expected, my presence and my expertise has been request for. I will be the British military representative and advisor to the Governor. Although, being an officer of the Crown himself, His Excellency would hardly need my counsel in that matter. Nevertheless, my new post will take me to the shores of Hong Kong."
"Congratulations, Zechs." Wu Fei smiled. "It must be exciting to be a part of the making of a new society. But what has this got to do with me?"
"I do hope you do not think me presumptuous in asking this," the Lieutenant quirked an eyebrow, "But I would like you to accompany me in this venture."
"Me?" obsidian eyes widened in surprise, "Why? What could I possibly do for you?"
"It is not I that you can be of service to, but the new colony of Hong Kong."
"You want me to be your counterpart?"
"Naturally, I cannot think of a better person to fill the role and I have been given leave to offer it to you. We would rather have someone sympathetic to our cause than a rigid, judgmental Magistrate determined in thwarting our every move. Moreover, you are civilian and your actions will not be dictated by your military. In essence, you have no one to answer to except those of your choosing. Of course, that does not mean you are above the law - both Chinese and British. It simply gives you greater freedom and autonomy to be the voice of your people in a manner you deem fitting and fair to them.
"Your experience with the West is, I daresay, varied and enlightening and your intimate knowledge of local law, culture and traditions will be a great asset to the provincial government," Zechs continued in earnest, "You are fluent in our language and you are well-educated and well-read in both eastern and western philosophies. Being a member of the ruling elite, you were undoubtedly groomed for a lifestyle in the Emperor's court, even if you did not desire it. I have no doubt that you have the elegance and conduct befitting an aide of the British Governor."
Wu Fei said nothing in reply.
"You need not answer me now, Wu Fei," Zechs continued when Wu Fei responded with silence, "And know that you do HAVE a choice. If you do not wish to go to Hong Kong with Noin and I, I will gladly arrange passage to whatever destination you choose."
Zechs said no more, giving leave for silent contemplation. Wu Fei looked steadily into his cup, as if the beverage itself was an oracle from which he could glean some answers. Pity there was no leaves at the bottom of his cup.
His unwarranted hostilities towards the charming officer melted away as he contemplated on Zechs' offer. Zechs' compassion and goodwill, seemingly boundless, warmed his heart. He wanted to believe that there was nothing to fear from the Lieutenant yet a shadow of inexplicable doubt hung over him. If nothing else, Wu Fei would trust Zechs simply because Duo trusted him. Brushing off that unfounded scepticism, he finally voiced his thoughts.
"Thank you for your generous offer, Zechs. I have to admit this comes as quite a surprise. At the same time, I feel it is a godsend." Wu Fei paused then stood up. Feeling restless, he began to pace. "Since my full recovery, I had been wrestling with my thoughts regarding the next course of my life. All choices that have presented themselves have not appeal, some a lot less than others. After the war ended, I understood I had to make a decision and soon. I felt I could no longer impose on you and yours. You have been too gracious."
Wu Fei stopped pacing and sat back down on the chair, "Now, you present me another choice, by far the most appealing, yet by accepting it, I would continue to impose on your kindness."
"You speak as if my aid in your time of need was a burden. It was not. It never was. I was glad to have been in aid of such a remarkable person like yourself."
"You flatter me, Zechs." Wu Fei felt his cheeks burn.
"I do not give frivolous compliments. You are well worthy of praise." Zechs chuckled. "But I digress. It seems to me you already have an answer for me. If you believe that by accepting the offer you are would be a burden, perish that thought. Your assistance in the development and maintenance of Hong Kong's provincial government will be invaluable to the Governor and I. If you must, you can think of this as a repayment of whatever debt you believe you owe me."
"How could I possibly dispute such an well-expressed argument?"
"Can I take that as a yes?"
"You certainly can."
"Excellent! You will not regret this, Wu Fei." Zechs extended his hand.
Wu Fei took it and cheekily replied, "Aye, but you may!"
Wu Fei smiled and looked distantly into the rising sun. He was certain that he made the right choice. Mei-Ran had often said he was destined for bigger roles in life than to be a rich man's heir.
Mei-Ran...
How he had missed her. How he wished that he could share this grand adventure with her. At least, he knew that her spirit would be with him. His thoughts drifted to her, of how they met, of the things they did together, of the lessons they learned together and from each other and their last goodbye.
Goodbye had such a finality, which he was beginning to hate. He then thought of Duo and couldn't help but wondered if his goodbye with Duo would truly be their last too.
Absently, Wu Fei reached up to a small plait just behind his left ear and began fingering it longingly. The plait had a lock of chestnut brown intricately woven into it. Wu Fei had braided the lock of hair from the Irish and Mei-Ran's into his own. It was his way of keeping the two most important people to him close to him at all times.
"There you are!" a voice pulled Wu Fei out of the past and into the present, "We will be embarking soon."
"Thank you, Miss Noin." Wu Fei headed towards her.
"Feeling apprehensive?"
"Apprehensive?" Wu Fei laughed nervously, "Why should I feel apprehensive just because I'm effectively surrendering myself into the hands of a British Governor and pledging my services to the very Empire that has defeated my own?"
Noin giggled, "You do have a flair for the dramatic, don't you? I see Duo has left his mark."
"Duo will leave a mark on the man he smiled at on a random street corner, how could he not impress his essence into my very own psyche? Or even yours?"
"True, he is rather a unforgettable character."
"I'm certain he hopes that too." Wu Fei offered Noin his arm. "Shall we make our way back to the ship before they leave without us?"
Noin slipped her arm around his, "Zechs wouldn't dare! Besides, I am certain that even he would not wish to evoke the wrath of the Governor by leaving one of his counsellors behind."
"Do you know the Governor?"
"I have met him on several occasions. He was a decorated soldier in his time with the British Armed Forces and rose rapidly to the rank of Colonel. He has now chosen a quieter life within the political arena. Although, I do not see how being a Governor would be quiet. He is a man with a great sense of adventure and I believe he considers being the first Governor of a colony as a new journey for him."
"What was his name again?"
"Treize Kushrenada." [1]
"Ah, Noin, Wu Fei." Zechs walked up to them. "I was about to send a search party for you both. Are you both ready to leave?"
"Zechs." Noin smirked. "Unlike you, neither one of us possess as many Oriental knickknacks to pack and to be loaded onto the ship as you do. We were ready at the crack of dawn when you wilfully dragged us out of peaceful slumber."
"I am a student of the Eastern culture," Zechs cried defensively, "They are not knickknacks but valued sources of information. Many a thing can be told from a simple vase or a verse of a - "
"Yes, yes, Professor Merquise, I am certain each and every artefact tells us a wonderful and intriguing story," Noin interrupted, took Zechs' hand and began tugging him toward the ship, "However, if we do not begin the journey we will not get to our destination. Come, let us tarry no longer. Treize and a new adventure await us upon the shores of Hong Kong!"
Indeed, a new adventure.
As he took his last step off the island, he cast a thought of love and hope to Duo, praying that the braided Irish would find his new beginning and adventure back home in the British Isle.
This was where their paths divided. This was where they left their lives together behind and began anew alone.
This, Duo, he thought, is truly goodbye.
They docked in the bustling ports of Hong Kong later in the afternoon. The place was already busy with work and the restoration of trade. Foreign and local merchants alike were diligently re-establishing their business ties and reputation as Wu Fei and his companions meandered towards the carriage that awaited them.
Noin, Wu Fei noted, was thrilled to be in such a lively environment. He could only guess that her ventures to the Far East, thus far, had not led her beyond the shores of Lintin. Noin chatted animatedly as they were taken to the Governor's mansion. Zechs was equally pleased in seeing her this delighted and excited. Wu Fei could not deny that her enthusiasm was infectious as he, too, felt his thrill overpower his nervousness.
Before long the carriage came to a halt and the door was opened. Zechs was the first to exit, offering his hand gentlemanly to Noin. Wu Fei stepped over the threshold behind her and took in the sight before him.
The courtyard before him was littered with a multitude of Western and Chinese paraphernalia. There were several servants, both English and Chinese, bustling around them, moving pieces of furniture into and out of the mansion. It would seem that everything Eastern was being replaced by everything Western. He wondered what the outcome would look like - a true vision of East meets West.
Wu Fei's eyes wondered over some Western articles but he could not identify every one of them. Curiosity peaking, he resisted rushing to and examining them - introductions first, there would be plenty of opportunities for him to go snooping around these fascinating looking bric-a-bracs.
"Ah," Zechs said and smiled, "Treize is waiting for us."
The Lieutenant made his way toward the mansion, Noin on his arm. Wu Fei followed in silence. As they crossed the vast courtyard towards where the Governor stood, Wu Fei's eyes scrutinised the dominating figure before him, from head to toe.
Treize Kushrenada was a gallant figure. He was dressed in his military uniform, not unlike the one Zechs had donned, only in blue and gold. An aura of grace and nobility emanated from him. His light auburn mane was neatly coiffed and there was a charming glint in crystal blue eyes. He wore a warm and welcoming smile. His shoulders were broad, although his stature svelte and lean. He stood proud and tall and his very presence command authority and infused a sense of loyalty. Wu Fei found the Governor even more charismatic than the blonde Lieutenant.
Yet something about him made the hairs on the back of Wu Fei's neck stand on ends. Was it the way Treize was looking at him? Or was he merely apprehensive in meeting his future employer? As he continued to examine Treize, something about the Governor seemed to strike a familiar cord with Wu Fei.
Wu Fei was surprised to find that Treize didn't look very much older than Zechs. Wu Fei concluded that he must have been remarkable to have risen to the rank of Colonel and be appointed Governor in his early twenties.
The Governor greeted Zechs and Noin warmly. It was evident that Zechs and Treize had years of friendship between them. Zechs then turned and introduce Wu Fei.
"Treize, this is Master Chang Wu Fei. Wu Fei, His Excellency, Treize Kushrenada."
"Please to finally meet you, Master Chang." Treize extended a gloved hand. "I have heard many a thing about you."
"All good I hope." Wu Fei took his hand and shook it.
"Of course!" Zechs interrupted, "I have nothing bad to say about you."
"Indeed, I have heard no slur or slander against your name," Treize replied, "I am pleased that you have agreed to assist us in this venture."
"It is but a small gesture in repaying my debt to the Lieutenant."
"If there's one thing you'll learn quickly about Wu Fei, Treize." Zechs smirked cheekily at the Chinese youth. "Is that he seems resolute in being honour bound to anyone who would do as little as offering him tea!"
"I have little doubt in his dedication and loyalty to his friends. Come, you all must be weary from your journey. I have had rooms prepared for you. Please excuse the disarray of this place. They seemed rather determined to anglicise this mansion and dress up to the nines befitting an English Governor. Personally I like the Oriental touch," Treize began leading his guests to their rooms, navigating through a maze of furniture, "I do hope you find the accommodation fitting, Master Chang."
"I am certain I will and please address me by my name. There is little need for such formality if we are to work as closely as Zechs indicated."
"Of course, as you should call me Treize." Treize smiled. "Noin, if you have no objections, I have placed you in a room in the same wing as the boys."
"No, of course I don't mind. It is probably wise to have them right under my nose, to keep them out of mischief!" she giggled.
"You forget, Noin." Zechs clicked his tongue. "Duo is no longer with us and he IS the source of all mischief."
"You may fool the others, Zechs Merquise." Noin wagged her finger at him. "But I know you are the perpetrator of half the pranks you and Duo have administered. There is little use for you to feign your innocence!"
"That is true." Treize nodded. "You are not as well-behaved and innocent as you portray yourself, Zechs. I, too, have known you long enough to know that."
"Oh!" Zechs cried, "You both are cruel. And to think I willingly sailed across the oceans for you both. Is this how you repay me? You would both do well in learning from young Wu Fei here, he will be my ally and champion."
"As much as I feel indebted to protect you from them, Zechs." Wu Fei chuckled. "I do not believe I have the prowess to defend myself against such formidable foes. I would ask you do not include me in your quarrel! However, I can give you my word your fall from grace will be remembered as noble and valiant."
"Well said!" Treize let out a short bark of laughter, "You are a devil with a silver tongue! I daresay the political arena will thrill and shudder under such eloquence and diplomacy. Again, I must say thank you."
"You are welcome, Treize." Wu Fei bowed.
"Ah, we are here." Treize stopped before a door. "This is your room, Noin. I have placed Zechs next to you and Wu Fei in the room next to his. Your belongings shall be brought to you shortly. Should you find this unsuitable, there are more rooms to choose from. You are free to anyone that is empty. I have asked for tea to be prepared. I will send someone for you when it is ready."
"Thank you, Treize." She kissed Treize on cheek and disappeared into her room.
Zechs, too, thanked Treize and retired into his. Wu Fei suddenly feeling awkward being left alone with the Governor hurried to his own.
The room beyond his door was simple yet elegant. The oak four-poster bed was against the wall to his left, flanked by a pair of matching bedside tables and silver candlesticks. Crisp white cotton lined the bed with at least four feather down pillows rested against the headboard. A plush olive blanket lay neatly folded over the sheets. A large trunk sat at the foot of the bed.
Opposite the bed were two armchairs and a small round table between them. Another candlestick stood upon it, coupled with a decanter of wine and two glasses.
In front of Wu Fei, a large bay window stood. Four large square cushions were neatly arranged in a row upon the window seat, their covers matching the ivory and green bedding.
Wu Fei found it strange to be furnished by Western objects, yet the furniture complemented the room well.
"Is something a matter, Wu Fei?"
Wu Fei jumped not realising that Treize had come up behind him.
"Do you not like the room?" Treize continued.
"No, no." He shook his head and stepped into the room. "I was just .... lost in my thoughts. The room is very nice. Thank you, Treize."
Treize followed Wu Fei in and shut the door behind him, "I am glad you approve. This is, of course, only temporary until the Governor's Manor is completed. They insisted on building one, I like it here but I guess my successor might prefer a Victorian home. I do wish they would stop removing EVERYTHING Oriental in sight!"
Wu Fei smiled and sat in one of the armchairs. "I see you are bearing this well being the master of these halls."
"Indeed." Treize chuckled. "However, I can promise you that my patience will not last long if they keep ignoring my suggestions and objections. As I said, I like the Oriental touch. If I had wanted a Victorian manor, I would have stayed in England!"
"If your designers and architects can turn this mansion into a Victorian manor, I think you should at least reward them for their ingenuity and skill if nothing else. That would not have been an easy task."
Treize laughed out loud and said, "Perhaps I should," then walked to the window and threw open the blinds. The early evening sun poured into the lofty room and coloured the white sheets in a faint golden hue. Treize settled upon the window seat and turned to look out the window.
"You have the view of the garden from this window." Treize gestured out the window.
Wu Fei stood unmoving examining the figure by the window with no small amount of fascination. As he continued to gaze at Treize, noting his strong jaw line, the high bridge of his nose and deep-set eyes, a small voice began whispering in the back of his mind. The gentle yet insistent voice sounded like a warning, murmuring caution that there was more than met the eye about his benefactor.
"I know we won't be here long but I have big plans for the garden," Treize said almost to himself, "It seems so bare at the moment and melancholy. I wonder if roses will bloom well in this weather."
"You like flowers?"
"Yes, especially roses. They are such wonderful things, delicate, fragrant and beautiful. Yet they bear thorns, sometimes imperceptible, that will no sooner draw blood if you do not handle them with care. It just goes to show how beautiful things can also be dangerous and deadly at the same time if you are callous with them."
Wu Fei couldn't help but wonder if the Governor was talking about the flowers or himself.
After another moment of awkward silence, a rap on the door drew the attention of both occupants of the room to it. Wu Fei got up and opened it, revealing a Chinese man in his mid thirties holding a couple of bags. He looked curiously at Wu Fei before the Chinese youth step aside to let him into the room. The man put the bags down by the trunk, bowed to Treize and Wu Fei before hastily exiting the room.
"Ah, your bags have arrived." Treize stood and walked to the door. "I shall leave you to your unpacking then."
Before retreating from the room, he turned and gave Wu Fei a wide smile, "Will you be joining us for tea?"
"Yes, I will. Thank you."
"Excellent," with that Treize shut the door behind him.
Wu Fei eyes stayed glued to the door for several minutes, a frown slowly furrowed his brow. Treize was a strange character, Wu Fei concluded.
Shaking his mistrust away for a moment, he proceeded to unpack his bags. Unlike Zechs and Noin, he had very little to his name. The few items he now possessed were bought in those days between being asked to be the Governor's counsellor and leaving Lintin Island. Noin had gladly trawled through the local market and shops with him to buy some essentials for his new position and new home. She had promised him more excursions to shops and local markets to build up his wardrobe and personal effects.
The first thing he unearthed was the box of the remaining items of his past - the family seal and the rings. He placed them in the drawer of the right bedside table. Then he meticulously and neatly transferred his clothes into the trunk and left several books on the small round table. He then slid the bags under the bed.
The room still needed more personal touched to it to make it more homely. Even though it was only to be his temporary abode, Wu Fei made mental notes on what he would like to add to the room to personalize it a little more. When they had the chance, he would ask Noin to help him with his shopping.
Wu Fei shut the trunk and peered at the bay window before him. Three quick strides brought him to the seat. He lowered himself on one of the cushions and hugged another close, looking down into the garden.
It was bare with the exception of a few trees, some forlorn looking shrubbery and a scatter of gravel. The only respectable looking thing upon the lawn was a gazebo in the middle. It had a pagoda roof and bamboo fencing upon a hexagonal base. Six stone stools stood around a granite table. Wu Fei wondered if Treize's servants had any intentions of removing this Chinese object as well.
The Chinese lad continued to gaze at the garden, golden in hue as the sun slowly began to sink into the horizon. A figure then strolled out into the garden, followed by two more. The former was Treize. The latter two bore trays for their afternoon tea.
The Governor suddenly stopped and cocked his head, as if aware that someone was watching. He spun around and tilted his head back, catching Wu Fei staring. The Chinese lad felt himself flush a little and gave Treize a hesitant wave.
A broad smile spread across the redhead's face as he gestured to the servants laying out tea on the granite table. One eyebrow rose and he made a big 'T' with his hands. Wu Fei smiled back at Treize and nodded before leaving the window seat.
He shut his blinds and shook his head to himself. Strange indeed, he thought as he left his room to head down to the gazebo.
For the first few weeks since arriving in Hong Kong, Wu Fei did little other than accompany Zechs and Treize in their various meetings with local representatives and other British government officials. He found it to be more interesting than the time he spent with his father after Duo's brief incarceration, namely because these meetings were more like tea parties than serious political debates.
Wu Fei noted that the English did like their tea. Tea was in abundance here; after all it was the yield of this simple shrub and the humble silk worm that opened China's shores to trade.
Another fascinating thing he noted was how the other Britons first regarded him. He seemed to be, more often than not, thought to be Treize's servant. It was no denying that he had assumed a much more subservient role, but he found it somewhat annoying when an aristocrat would point and gesture as if he was deaf and spoke about him like he didn't understand English. Nevertheless, he often got his own back when he rendered them speechless with a well-placed witty retort. Zechs and Treize, both finding it amusing to watch Wu Fei put some of the more pompous Britons in place, always neglected to point out that the Chinese youth was a friend, not servant.
It was strange for him to be looked at as something other than the son of a Manchu General. He found it rather refreshing to be seen and judged by who he was and not whom he was related to. It was nice to be recognised for his own achievements and not by familial ties.
Wu Fei drowned himself in work whenever he could, considering there was nothing else for him to do. However, Treize was a man who believed in the credo 'all work and no play makes Treize a dull boy'. It seemed to Wu Fei that the Governor was more intent on enjoying the luxuries and pleasures of Hong Kong than he was in building a government. Either that or the man never slept.
"You worry far too much, Wu Fei," was Treize's defence, "There is little for us to do at present, we will oversee the operation and counsel when needed. There are some hard at work as we speak shaping Hong Kong into a fine colony. Our active participation will lie mainly in diplomatic relations for now. Your enthusiasm is much appreciated and you have done a wonderful job in helping to found the local constabulary but you should learn to take a step back and enjoy the fruits of your labour."
Wu Fei could argue little with that, like Treize said, he was only there to counsel not act.
That period of idleness led to Wu Fei's restlessness. Treize had his gardening and library to occupy him and the Chinese youth did not want to be the third wheel to Zechs and Noin's courtship. He HAD to find something to do; even his daily practices did little to keep the youth pacified.
Now that he had settled into his new environment, a sense of security and normality had returned to his life, Wu Fei felt that it was time for him to stop making excuses and complete his duty as a husband. It was time to search for Mei-Ran.
"Zechs? I don't mean to disturb you but I need your assistance yet again." the Chinese youth approached the Lieutenant one evening. He was in the music room with Noin. She was tinkling at the pianoforte while he read.
"Anything." The tall blond looked up from his book. Noin rose from the musical instrument, offered to make tea and left the room.
"I need to find my wife, Mei-Ran."
Zechs' brow furrowed in confusion.
"I mean, I need to find her final resting place," Wu Fei correct himself, "I need to pay my respects. I didn't know who else to turn to and was hoping you would be able to help me somehow."
"Of course, I'll help. Have you any idea where she might be?"
"No, but I know someone who does. I just don't know where he is. I certainly hope he survived the war."
"Well, admittedly, finding a person would probably be easier."
"His name is Chang Li [2], he was my personal groom. Duo last saw him at the Chang mansion before he fled with Mei-Ran. I cannot give you more of where he went. I understand that that is very little to begin a search with, but I'd be grateful if you can find ANYTHING at all."
"I will do what I can. I have to confess I was wondering when you would begin your search."
"Some things are easier to procrastinate than to complete." Wu Fei shrugged one shoulder then sagged into the plush chair opposite Zechs. "Does that make an unworthy husband?"
"Better late than never," Zechs quipped, "Besides, you have not been idling away. I'm sure your wife would not fault you for putting time and effort in rebuilding a new life for yourself."
"Funny." Wu Fei chuckled. "That was what Duo said."
"Well, we both can't be wrong, can we?"
"I suppose not."
"I'll let you know as soon as I have anything of substance."
"Thank you, Zechs." Wu Fei stood up and headed for the door. Just as he opened it, Noin almost walked into him.
"Oh!" She exclaimed and steadied her tray. "Leaving already?"
"I don't want to disturb you and Zechs."
"Nonsense! Stay, have a nightcap and perhaps we can bully Zechs in to singing for us. He has quite a sultry voice."
"Flattery will not get you far, Noin." Zechs piped without looking up from his book.
"Am I hearing things right? Zechs Merquise turning down the opportunity to flaunt his varied talents?" she teased as she laid the tray down.
The jesting continued as Wu Fei watched in amusement. The night wore on and the pair did manage to bully Zechs into playing and singing. While he entertained them, Noin was determined to teach Wu Fei how to dance. For someone with such grace when practicing kung fu, the Chinese youth seemed to have two left feet when it came to dancing. Nevertheless, if Noin was willing to teach, he was willing to learn.
It wasn't till the clock chimed twelve did the trio finally retired to their rooms. Wu Fei's heart temporarily lightened, slept peacefully for a change.
Wu Fei hurried to Treize's study for their usual morning session. He had slept well the night before and was horrified to find that he had slept in. Abandoning the idea of breakfast, he pelted through the estate not wanting to make Treize and Zechs wait any longer.
"Good morning!" Zechs chirped, "Did Noin tire you out last night?"
Treize raised a curious eyebrow that had a look which said 'do I really want to know?'
Wu Fei became redder from the cumulative effect of his rushing and embarrassment.
"MUST you torment me this early in the morning?"
"You should know by now I will seize every opportunity that presents itself!"
The Chinese lad grunted as he eased himself into the chair next to Zechs, "Shall we begin?"
Anything to keep Zechs quiet while he caught his breath.
"Of course," Treize said.
Wu Fei sat silently listening to the Governor and the Lieutenant discussed their upcoming meeting with the Manchurian ambassadors from Peking. In two days time, Ministers of the Emperor's court would arrive in Hong Kong for the purpose of cultivating a better and stronger friendship with the British Empire. Although agreed to an informal meet, it was the first diplomatic envoy since the Treaty of Nanking was signed. Treize wanted the reception to be perfect, believing that first impressions, more often than not, have the most profound effect.
"What are their names?" Treize asked.
"The senior Minister is Sung Xi and he will be accompanied by his protégé, Kwan Che Ming," Zechs said reading off a letter from them.
"WHAT?!" Wu Fei sudden outburst startled his companions.
"Judging by the intensity of your reaction, I am guessing you have heard of him?" Zechs raised an eyebrow.
"Heard of him?" Wu Fei snorted, "That's an understatement! Minister Kwan is my eldest sister's husband!"
"Ahh, family." Treize smiled. "Then it would be easier for us to - "
"You don't understand!" Wu Fei interrupted, "He ... let's just say that he would have been a better son to my father than my brother and I put together. There is no love lost between us and sees me as nothing more than a delinquent, disobedient child. I know he would not approve of my presence here. Admittedly, his opinion of me counts for very little to me."
Wu Fei stood and paced. "His and my uncle's family are close. He would share the news of my survival with them. I do not want to be apart of that life any more. I would rather remain a memory in their lives than face the possibility of having them harass me about duty or blackmail me with honour. They would undoubtedly brand me as a traitor when I refuse to return like a good little boy and a conspirator for being with you."
"If this is going to such a cause of concern," Treize began, "You are excused from the meeting."
Wu Fei said nothing for a moment then sighed, "Thank you, Treize, I am tempted but it would solve little. I will have to confront my demons and conquer them. I will face my brother-in-law. However, I do not wish to jeopardize the fostering of better relations with Peking. We are hardly on stable grounds. These first few steps are crucial."
"Our young counsellor is wise." Zechs nodded. "Perhaps we can launch a two-pronged attack on them, you and I will take on Minister Sung and deal with any 'fostering of relationships' that is required while Wu Fei will challenge his brother-in-law."
"Two-pronged attack? Challenge?" Treize chuckled, "Once a soldier, always a soldier. This is supposed to be a diplomatic assembly, not a battle, Zechs. What do you think, Wu Fei?"
"I think my day cannot get worse," the Chinese youth muttered.
"The day is not over yet!"
"You are not being reassuring, Zechs!" Wu Fei growled making Zechs chuckle, "You and Miss Noin have the same cruel streak. No wonder you're made for each other."
"Cruel? You called her cruel and lived to see another day? You are either a brave man or a lucky one!"
"Oh, do be quiet!" Wu Fei shot back.
"Gentlemen!" Treize sighed exasperatedly but failed to hide his amused grin, "We have more pressing matters to attend to. Leave your duel for later. Wu Fei?"
"Perhaps I SHOULD excuse myself when the ambassadors arrive if you are certain you do not need me. I will however confront my brother-in-law after you have cajoled the senior Minister into believing we are not harbingers of China's destruction!"
"Your presence will be missed but it is entirely up to you."
A sharp knock drew the men's attention to the door as Treize answered it. Noin popped her head in.
"Far be it for me to interrupt your fun, gentlemen, but lunch is served."
"Thank you, Noin." Zechs rose to join his beloved.
Treize followed suit, leaving Wu Fei sitting alone in the silence of the study. He sat unmoving pondering how and what he could do about the impending confrontation with his brother-in-law. Kwan had never been one of his favourite people and the feeling was mutual. He would have never guessed that the first member of his family he would be seeing after the war would be Kwan.
"Wu Fei?" Treize re-entered the study, "Are you alright?"
"Hmm? Oh, yes." Wu Fei stood up, "I'm fine."
[1] Sir Henry Pottinger was the first governor of Hong Kong in our reality - but it'd be no fun writing about him!
[2] Young orphans were often 'adopted' by the families they serve, hence taking the family name as well.