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
"Is this really necessary?" Treize asked for the thousandth time.
"YES!" both Zechs and Wu Fei practically shouted.
"I'm not having much problems," Noin said nonchalantly as she picked up another piece of sliced carrot and popped it in her mouth, exercising her newfound ability to use chopsticks.
Treize scowled at her, "I daresay this is not the first time you have encountered them, so your triumph over me is invalid."
"Treize." Zechs sighed, "Stop complaining and keep practising! Besides, it was your idea to have a 'traditional Chinese dinner with no extravagance spared'."
"You are my counsellor, Zechs, it is your duty to talk me out of the silly suggestions I make," his brow furrowed in concentration as he assaulted another piece of carrot, his efforts in vain.
"It was not silly," Wu Fei reached over to correct Treize's grasp of the bamboo sticks, "It is the right thing to do to make the ambassadors feel more at ease in a foreign environment. This is after all an informal meet, what better way to warm up to a stranger than over good food and wine?"
"Ow!" Treize complained again, "My fingers do not go that way, Wu Fei."
"Everyone else's does, why not yours?"
"Imp," the redhead grunted, "I'm surprised your nation has managed to feed themselves with these confounded sticks!"
"We practiced," Wu Fei smirked.
"Alright, alright!" Treize conceded, "What in God's good name was I thinking when I invited you three into my home?"
"That you needed some levity in your otherwise mundane existence?" Zechs suggested.
"That is it! Out!" Treize commanded as he began forcefully ushering the trio out of his study, "I am certain you still have things to do before the arrival of the ambassadors. Get them done and leave me in peace!"
The door slammed. Wu Fei, Zechs and Noin stood for a moment, alternating staring at each other and at the door before bursting out in fits of giggles. There was no denying that they felt a perverse pleasure in ganging up on Treize. It was almost like three younger siblings bullying the eldest. Treize had yet to thwart their efforts.
"I can hear you!" a growl came from behind closed door.
That only served to elicit more laughter from the trio before Noin led the boys away. It was in the interest of self-preservation that she did that. Ruffling Treize's feathers was fun, but once he calms down, he could get his own back just as effectively.
"Do you think he has begun plotting some evil scheme against us?" she asked with humour.
"I have no doubt about that," Zechs affirmed, "The real question is WHEN is he going to exact revenge?"
"Certainly not today," Wu Fei noted, "He wouldn't last a moment alone with the ambassadors or those confounded sticks!"
"He only needs Zechs for that. You and I, dear Wu Fei, are expendable."
"You forget, Miss Noin, the Governor has given me the responsibility of overseeing the preparation of dinner. He too will need my wits, and all body parts, intact today."
"You're on your own, Noin!"
"Ah!" she cried in disdain, "And you call yourself champions? To abandon the maiden to the dragon?"
"Maidens who wilfully taunt dragons need to be taught a lesson."
Noin eyed Wu Fei sourly, "Is that one of your obscure ancient Chinese proverbs?"
"Indeed, it's a classic Chang Wu Fei lesson," Wu Fei grinned.
"Very profound indeed." Zechs nodded sagely as he stroked his imaginary beard.
"Carry on and Treize will be the least of your worries!" she threatened then spun around and marched off, not before saying, "I suggest you both had better get back to work! Good day, gentlemen!"
Wu Fei and Zechs leaned on each other chuckling. They were two for two.
"Do you think we have done enough damage for one day?"
"Perhaps, but the day is not yet over," Zechs winked, "I'll see you later, I have tempers to fray and nerves to wreck."
"Don't be late for dinner." Wu Fei muttered as he too went about running his own errands.
The Chinese youth was fairly surprised that he wasn't more anxious than he was. After all, the imminent blast from his past would be arriving later that day. He concluded that worrying about it would not change a thing, so he channelled his energy in doing something constructive.
Wu Fei spent the rest of the day making sure that everything would go smoothly. He had the dining room dressed up tastefully, made sure that they had enough appropriate Chinese crockery and cutlery and checked that the kitchen had everything they needed for that night's feast.
It was nice to have something to occupy him.
Wu Fei promptly disappeared out of the back yard when he heard their guests had arrived. He felt cowardly for running but consoled himself with the affirmation that he will return to confront Kwan later. He would not jeopardize Treize and Zechs' efforts in making a good first impression. He was glad that Zechs could speak Cantonese; otherwise he would have had no choice but to stay.
The trio had agreed that Wu Fei should stay out of sight for no less than two hours. The excuse for his absence would be some urgent matter that needed his personal attention. He would return after dinner to greet Sung and Kwan. Treize and Zechs weren't too concerned when Kwan reacts badly to Wu Fei's presence just as long as they had succeeded in getting on Sung's good side. Of that, Wu Fei was confident about.
Wu Fei had decided to wander the street for those two hours instead of being cooped up in his room all by himself. It was a pity Noin could not join him in his gallivanting, Treize had asked her to join them as well. Wu Fei wasn't sure why either, but neither he nor Noin questioned.
Making a beeline to the market, Wu Fei began losing himself in the crowd and the buzzing environment. There were still things he needed and wanted. This would be the perfect opportunity to get them. He also realised that it would be Christmas soon. And if he remembered correctly, Duo said it was customary to exchange gifts with friends and family at that time. He had no doubt that his British housemates would want to celebrate the day. It was high time he did something for them, even if it's merely a small gesture like giving them Christmas presents.
Wu Fei moved from shop to stall with a mission. He had no idea what he should buy for them but he was going to succeed, nevertheless. At the same time, he kept his eye on the pocket watch he had borrowed from Noin, ensuring that he wouldn't be too late.
Two hours passed by quicker than he had expected it too. He was glad, and surprised, that he had managed to find presents for three of his housemates gifts. He hurriedly retrieved his horse tethered at the end of the street and rode back to the mansion.
Upon reaching the stables, he gestured to a stable boy and instructed him to take his recent purchases quickly and quietly up to his room. The last thing he needed was to be spotted with them. He was supposed to be on an 'urgent' matter, not shopping.
He straightened his tunic and marched to the main reception room. He hoped that Treize and company would have finished dinner and managed to keep the ambassadors there until he returned.
He paused before the door, grit his teeth resolutely and stilled his nerves.
Time to face the music, he thought and entered the room.
"Ah, Wu Fei!" Treize said smoothly, "I'm glad you could made it before the ambassadors left, please join us."
Wu Fei acknowledged everyone in the room then made eye contact with Kwan, whose face was slowly turning beet red.
<"WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS?"> Kwan demanded, forgetting himself.
<"Kwan!"> Sung snapped, <"Show a little restraint and respect for our hosts. They have been very gracious and warm. Do not embarrass me.">
<"But Master Sung,"> Kwan began but Wu Fei interrupted him.
<"Minister Sung."> Wu Fei bowed, <"Please allow me to introduce myself. I am Chang Wu Fei, youngest son of General Chang Jung and brother to Minister Kwan's wife. I must apologize. First for my absence during dinner, secondly for causing Minister Kwan's extreme reaction to my presence.">
<"Chang Jung?"> the old minister raised an eyebrow, <"Your father served the Emperor well.">
<"Thank you, Minister."> Wu Fei bowed to the older Minster.
<"WHAT are you doing here?"> Kwan demanded.
<"Did the Governor not mention that I am one of his counsellors?">
Kwan snorted, <"A whelp like you?">
<"That's enough, Kwan,"> Sung warned.
<"Minister Sung, perhaps if you would excuse us? It is evident that there are matters of a personal nature that Minister Kwan and I need to resolve.">
<"I have no objections. What about Mr. Kushrenada?">
<"He has no objections,"> Zechs said, consenting on behalf o Treize.
<"Then, Brother-in-law,"> Wu Fei turned to Kwan, <"Would you kindly accompany me to the garden?">
Kwan shot him a look of venom; reluctance evident in his eyes but when his desire to reprimand Wu Fei got the better of him, he stalked after the young Chinese boy.
<"What have you to say for yourself?!"> Kwan growled.
<"What need is there to say anything?">
Kwan gaped at him, <"Your uncle's family has been mourning you as has your sister! How could you not send word to ease their mind of their grieving? They have been honouring your death. Only that is a lie, you're alive, worse you are in the company of the foe! You deserve no honour!
<"You have disgraced the family!"> Kwan lifted his hand and brought it down heavily across Wu Fei's cheek. He continued ranting, <"How can you answer to your ancestors when you have pledge yourself to the very enemy who has defeated us? How can you face your uncle when you are consorting with the gwailos? Have you no shame?">
Wu Fei bore the slap gracefully, he should've been commended in his restraint for not retaliating. He knew Kwan was not a martial artist; hitting back would probably hurt him. Moreover, he didn't want to resort to violence to get his point across.
<"There is no shame in my actions,"> he replied calmly, <"I have been taught well enough to honour and respect a life debt. And that is exactly what I am doing.">
<"You traitorous cur!"> Kwan slapped Wu Fei again, <"How could you make yourself honour bound to these gwailo's?">
<"I do not question the gods if they chose a Briton to save my life. I simply treasure the gift. It makes no difference to me if my benefactor is Occidental or Oriental, only that he is a good man and his intentions are honourable. Zechs and Treize are just that.">
<"You - "> Kwan lifted his hand again, but this time his palm did not make contact.
Wu Fei had stopped the attack with ease. He could've blocked the first two as well but decided to play into Kwan's illusion of authority. However, everyone had a limit.
<"I think you've hit me enough times, Brother-in-law,"> the strength underlying the boy's voice made Kwan withdraw, <"And please refrain from calling my friends 'gwailos' in their own home. It's disrespectful,"> Wu Fei continued.
<"You would defend the enemy against your own family?">
<"That is where you are wrong again. The war is over. The British, though once hostile, are no longer the enemy. I cannot deny that the animosity and discontentment about them still exists among our people, but we need to move on from that. If you continue to judge them and discriminate against them simply because they are different then this chasm will never be bridged. Not only are you a leader among our people, you are an ambassador of international relations, should you not be a role model to us and be more tolerant and open-minded? Is that not why you are here? To cultivate better ties with them?">
<"You DARE lecture me?"> Kwan bellowed, <"You have not changed! You are still the little, disobedient delinquent you have always been. Your uncle will be most disappointed to learn what you have reduced yourself to!">
<"I was not afraid to defy my father,"> Wu Fei said matter-of-factly, <"Why would you believe that would fear my uncle?">
<"Have you no respect to your elders?">
<"Respect is something you earn and gain. I do not give it frivolously simply because he is my uncle or because you are married to my sister. Besides, respect and fear are two separate things. I do not need to fear someone to respect them. Quite the contrary, actually.">
<"Your mind has been poisoned by the gwailos! You WILL return with me to Peking and answer to your uncle!">
<"You have no place to command me.">
<"I am your sister's husband!">
<"Yes, you are my sister's husband,"> Wu Fei agreed, <"It would do you well to remember that my sister married into your family, not the other way round. You have no authority over me. You may be older, but as the last surviving son of Chang Jung, I am now the leader of my clan. If anything, it is you who has been disrespectful!">
Kwan opened and closed his mouth several times, too shocked to come up with a retort. Wu Fei knew that Kwan knew he was right when the minister failed to response. He had no intention of using his birthright to intimidate Kwan, but his rational approach was not being carried across to the minister.
<"Your uncle will learn of your insolence!"> Kwan threatened.
<"As I said before, I do not fear my uncle. Yes, he is a formidable man and an able Judge and I have every respect for him as my father's brother but like you, he has little authority over me. I answer to no one except those of my choosing.">
<"You are a selfish, heartless child!"> Kwan spat.
<"How so? Because I am leading a life that I have chosen for myself?">
<"Your place and duty is with your family!">
<"My family is dead because of the war you and your fellow Ministers insisted upon starting,"> Wu Fei retorted, his voice cold and chilling.
<"Then you should've died with them defending your home!">
<"I did,"> Wu Fei replied acidly, <"What right have you to condemn me when you and the Emperor's court did little other than sit upon gilded chairs to debate the strife our people endured? I was there in the thick of the battle. My wife died in my arms and I witness my home violated. Our soldiers died because of you, our people lost homes because of you.
<"What did you do to aid the war effort? NOTHING! Only when the acts of war encroached upon the borders of Peking did you begin to fear and sought an end to the hostilities. This attitude reflects clearly on your cowardice and selfishness. Even now, you hinder the healing process of our people on this colony by being prejudice and judgmental against the British!">
<"We do not need the wretched gwailos for anything!">
<"Don't you? Who, then, will fill your pipes with opium and line your pockets with silver?">
<"HOW DARE YOU?"> Kwan roared again.
Wu Fei knew he had hit the nail on its head, <"I dare because I speak nothing but the truth.">
<"Your mother will be most disappointed when she learns of your disobedience!">
<"Mother?"> did his ears deceive him? Wu Fei wasn't ready to believe him. After all, Kwan had been clutching at straws trying to unnerve him, <"She survived Shanghai?">
<"Oh, have I got your attention now?"> Kwan smirked.
<"Who is the child now?"> Wu Fei replied tartly.
The minister glowered, <"Return to Peking with me to receive punishment for your impertinence then you can see for yourself.">
This time, Wu Fei laughed, <"Do you honestly believe that you can blackmail me into going to Peking? I have done nothing wrong, despite what you may believe of me, or what you will tell my uncle. I certainly will not go 'home' to be judge by the people who have chosen bigotry and war over tolerance and diplomacy.">
<"You do not care?"> Kwan asked in disbelief.
<"I care about my mother more than you can imagine, but you are conceited to believe that you are the only source of information that I have,"> Wu Fei smiled slyly.
<"You - "> Kwan spluttered, Wu Fei had beaten him once again. Finding no words for a suitable retort, Kwan foolishly tried to take another swing at Wu Fei.
The Chinese youth sidestepped the clumsy attack with contemptible ease, sending the minister sprawling in an unceremonious heap.
<"KWAN!"> Sung marched up to them, Zechs followed in his wake, <"I had thought I taught you better than that! Pick yourself up and wait for me by the horses!">
<"Master Sung - ">
<"You have embarrassed me enough for one night. Do not make me repeat myself."> the elder minister grimaced.
Kwan said no more and left but not before shooting a murderous glance at Wu Fei.
<"Please accept my apologies, Master Chang. It would seem my protégé is in some need of manners,"> Sung bowed, <"I had no intentions of eavesdropping but I MUST commend you on the way you have conducted yourself. The Court will benefit from someone of your wisdom and clarity but I cannot deprive Mr. Kushrenada of such a fine counsellor.">
<"Thank you, Minister,"> Wu Fei bowed in return, <"Knowing that someone like you is at the helm of founding diplomatic relations between the British and the Emperor's court puts relief and reassurance in my heart.">
<"Ah, you flatter an old dog,"> Sung laughed, <"I try to do the best for our people and I am glad to know I am not alone. We are few and far between, but still we persevere.">
<"Indeed,"> Wu Fei smiled, he liked the minister, <"I only regret that I was not able to join you for dinner, Minister.">
<"A pity, but there is always next time.">
<"I look forward to that.">
<"Till then, farewell, Master Chang.">
<"Goodbye, Minister Sung,"> Wu Fei replied.
<"I'll walk you to your horse, Minister,"> Zechs said and led the Minister away.
Wu Fei made his way back to the reception room where Treize and Noin were. He shuffled in and sagged into an empty chair.
"Did it go well?" Noin asked.
"It depends..."
"On?" Treize asked.
"I'm not certain. Kwan is very angry due to many thing that I do not care to count, but I managed deter him into bodily dragging me to Peking. He is no doubt going to tell my uncle of our confrontation, probably with exaggeration of my 'treacherous' behaviour. That in itself, is not a concern. If my uncle chooses to pursue me, let him come. I can defend myself against him.
"However, Kwan also said that my mother is alive! I do not know if there's any truth in that or if he was merely blackmailing me with lies in order to get me to follow him. If my mother is alive, I pray that she will not harbour too much hate and disappointment in me," Wu Fei sighed wistfully.
"If you mother knows you at all, she'll understand the good you are doing for the people of Hong Kong," Noin attempted to comfort him.
"That's what I'm afraid of - does she really know me?" Wu Fei asked rhetorically, "She knew I was fascinated by the West, however did she know how involved I have been? Would she understand?"
"I'm sure she would."
"Well, at least I am certain my aunt would," Wu Fei thought about Pui San, "She would be my defence in my absence if my mother should believe Kwan."
"Then you have little to worry about."
"It would seem so."
Zechs returned to the group and seated himself by Noin.
"Oh, you should've seen the way our young Dragon handled that bigoted fool!" Zechs chuckled.
"Incidentally, how long were you and the Minister eavesdropping?" Wu Fei asked.
"When you touted your birthright and rendered him speechless," Zechs grinned, "Did you see the look of astonishment on his face?"
"What is your birthright?" Noin asked.
"Did you not know that Master Chang here is the patriarch of his family?"
"Oh, don't remind me, Zechs," Wu Fei rolled his eyes, "With leadership comes great responsibility. I am only fifteen! What do I know about being a patriarch?"
"Age does not beget wisdom," Noin said sagely.
"Ah, she's not just a pretty face," Zechs teased.
"Unlike you, right?" Treize quipped.
Both Wu Fei and Noin dissolved into laughter. Zechs scowled.
"It's late," Wu Fei said after the giggling stopped, "It has been a long day. Good night, Miss Noin, gentlemen."
The others bade him good night and Wu Fei headed back to his room. It had been a long day. Deciding that he would mull over his confrontation with Kwan later, Wu Fei sank gratefully into his bed and drifted off into a fitful dream.
"There you are!" Noin bounded up to Wu Fei.
For the past few days, he had been hiding in the library whenever he wasn't working, feeling a little sorry for himself. He could not understand why facing Kwan off would bother him as much as it did. Kwan was not someone of vital importance to him. However, he suspected that it was his mother's thoughts of him that held him in anxiety. He was also relieved to know that she survived the attack on Shanghai and was safe with his uncle's family. He knew Pui San would care for her.
A part of him wanted nothing more than to rush to Peking to see her, but something stopped him. Was he being obstinate, proud or simply shamefaced? Whatever the reason, he had found an excuse to stay every time that part began winning. Eventually, he would find the courage, he convinced himself. Eventually...
"It wasn't me!" he quipped from behind his book.
"What?"
"I didn't do it."
"Do what?"
"Whatever it was that made you come looking for me?"
"Oh, don't be silly. I swear Zechs is a bad influence on you!" she reached and pulled the book away from Wu Fei.
"Ladies shouldn't swear," Wu Fei looked up at her and did a double take. She was not dressed in a usual Victorian garb; instead she wore a traditional Manchu blouse and trousers. It was rose and cream in colour, with delicate sprays of flowers embroidered down the front panels of her blouse. She had her hair loose and she wore a pair of pearl earrings. In one hand she had a dainty, sandalwood fan with a pink tassel, in the other was Wu Fei's book.
"Well, is this sufficient?" she spun around once for Wu Fei.
"Depends on what you're attempting to achieve."
"We're going to the market and I didn't want to stand out too much."
"Miss Noin, you're at least a foot taller than everybody else, not trying to stand out would be rather impossible."
"I am NOT that tall," she pouted as she pulled Wu Fei to his feet, "See? You can almost look me in the eye. My, you HAVE grown! When did that happen?"
"Did you say 'we'?" Wu Fei asked, changing the subject before Noin could tease him any more about being a growing lad.
"Yes, you did promise me you'd accompany me to the market and seeing you've done little but mope since you confrontation with your brother-in-law, this is as good as any time to go."
"You won't take no for an answer will you?"
"Do I ever?" she smiled cheekily, "It's a lovely day, the sun is shining, the air is cool, and I'm bored!"
"Okay, you win," Wu Fei followed her out of the library, "Do we need more people to help carry the things you intend to buy?"
"This is just a nice stroll with a good friend through the market. I'm not planning to get much."
"Much," Wu Fei grinned.
"Zechs will pay for corrupting your young, innocent mind," Noin muttered.
"Miss Noin, you would not have us any other way."
"You know me too well, young Dragon," she giggled.
The friendly banter continued as the pair strolled down toward the center of the little provincial town. Wu Fei had always appreciated Noin's company. She was pretty good at guessing when to be a friend, a sister or a guardian to him. It was true she did not have Duo's knack but the braided Irish was not going to be the only friend Wu Fei would have.
They spent most of the afternoon flitting from store to stall. Noin was true to her word and resisted the urge to buy everything in sight. She was determined to have less Oriental knickknacks than Zechs, that way she could still tease him about his collection. Most of the things she bought were food. Wu Fei noticed that this young Lady was fearless in trying the strange and exotic. She even ventured into territories that Wu Fei feared to tread!
The pair was having a good time. Even when they received less than warm reception from various people, they did not let it dishearten them. Although, Hong Kong had become British, it did not mean that all residents welcomed the colonists. Nevertheless, some less wary merchants greeted them enthusiastically and some more greedy ones would not turn any custom away.
Wu Fei found it fascinating - observing how the people reacted to Noin for being a Westerner and how they reacted to him for being associated to a Westerner. He was glad to know not everyone was ready to rise up in rebellion at the drop of a hat.
When evening came, Noin was still intent of staying in town. She had heard that an opera was going to be staged at the town square that night. She persuaded Wu Fei into staying in town with her as she had never watched a Chinese Opera before.
"There is plenty of time, are you sure you don't want to go home first? The night is getting chilly, perhaps it is wise to get you a shawl."
"That's really sweet of you to be concerned, Wu Fei," Noin smiled, "But you forget, I'm from England. This is nothing compared to the wintry depths of Northumberland."
"Do you get snow there?"
"Even in July," she giggled, "Have you seen snow?"
"No," Wu Fei shook his head, "I've not been to the mountains. I was told that it sometimes snows in Peking but never when I am there."
"You're not missing much," she shrugged, "Cold, wet and messy, that's all it is!"
"Perhaps. Come, let us find a good seat," Wu Fei led Noin towards the bamboo array seating that had been temporarily erected for the performance. Large torches and colourful lanterns littered the square lighting up the area well. A few open cairns stood before and on the stage, illuminating it well.
Noin was practically quivering with excitement and anticipation. Wu Fei never liked the opera. True, the choreographed fights were interesting but the singing was not. He had been dragged off to one of two performances before by Su Yin and Hoi Yee but had never voluntarily attended one. This was an exception. He could not recall ever seeing anyone this excited in watching an opera.
"I wonder if it'll be the same," Noin said.
"Same as what?"
"Our opera."
"What are yours like?" Wu Fei asked, intrigued.
Noin described them, from their opulent sets to their bright costumes, from their dramatic plot lines to the alluring voices of their stars. She had always loved the theatre.
"Well, we have singing and colourful costumes, but I daresay it would be rather different from the Western Opera."
"That's what I like about this place - it's all different from England," she grinned and drew her attention forward when the drums began to roll.
The narrator moved to center stage and began their story. He was dressed like a monk and his voice was loud and powerful. As soon as he began to sing, Wu Fei leaned over to Noin and related the story.
"Once upon a time," Wu Fei whispered as the narrator sang, "There was a creature, smart and strong. He was revered as the greatest of his kind but he was very mischievous too. His name was Suet Mm Huong." [1]
The narrator retreated into the curtains as more players leapt onto the stage. They told the legend of the Monkey King through song, dance and martial arts. They told the story eloquently with their fluid movement and rhythmic tunes. Wu Fei did his best to relate the story to Noin. She was absolutely mesmerized by the flamboyance and the exuberance of the show. Her operas, she told Wu Fei, were more subdued, often vocalising the matters of the heart. Its Chinese counterpart, she declared, was one great adventure after another.
For the first time, Wu Fei found himself enjoying a show. Noin's enthusiasm was truly infectious.
The show came to an end sooner than Noin had wanted it. As the other audience began filtering out of the town square, she and Wu Fei remain seated.
"That was the best show that I've ever seen! And there was nice lesson to be learned from it as well. We must get Zechs to watch it! Perhaps he could learn a thing or two," she giggled.
"Zechs? I should think that they were talking about Duo!"
"I believe they were talking about both of them!"
"That's an unnerving notion - both Duo and Zechs as one person!" Wu Fei feigned a shudder, "There would be little we could do to subdue them!"
"You are correct!" she laughed, "Tell me, Wu Fei, can you do all the things they were doing?"
"With practice, I'm certain I can learn them well."
"You are too modest!"
"I am being truthful," he shrugged and stood; offering Noin his hand, "Let us return before Zechs sends his men out to find you!"
"It IS getting late," she took his hand and threaded her arm around his after she stood, "Thank you so much for accompanying me. I had a really good time."
"No need to thank me, I was glad to spend the day with you."
Slowly, they pair made their way back to the mansion. The activities of the day were drawing to an end. Most stalls had left the market street and some stores were closed. The inns still had their lantern burning bright, casting a slight glow to the otherwise dark street. Some people were making their last minute purchases while others were arriving at the inns for their evening meal and a drink. Compared to the bustling atmosphere of the market day, the street was as quite as a mouse.
If Wu Fei had been paying attention or even anticipating the attack, he would've easily stopped it. But as it was, he was too absorbed in the conversation with Noin to be wary about a little boy of eleven, maybe twelve, who was running up to them. Without missing a beat, he threw the contents of the bowl he had in his hands at Noin and pelted away.
"HEY!" Wu Fei exclaimed and took after the boy.
Just before he disappeared into an alley, Wu Fei caught him by his braid - useful restraining items they were.
<"Just what do you think you're doing?"> he demanded as he dragged the kicking and screaming boy back to Noin.
"Wu Fei, it's okay, I'm alright," the front of her top was stained with a dark, pungent liquid and several spots had splashed onto her flawless complexion, "It's only blood. Although, I sincerely hope it's from an animal!"
"Only blood?!" Wu Fei cried, enraged, <"How dare you, you brat! Have you no respect for your elders?">
<"LET ME GO!"> the boy screamed, <"She's just a gwailo! They're the enemy, the filthy barbarian!">
<"You have the audacity to call her a barbarian when you're the fool throwing blood at people? You are a disgrace to the Manchu people!">
<"Says the braidless traitor who speaks the gwailo's tongue?"> a voice emerged from the alley that the boy was trying to reach, <"Let the boy go.">
<"Are you his father?"> Wu Fei asked, letting the boy go and turning to the newcomer.
<"No,"> the man said as he stepped into the light, as the boy disappeared into the shadows, <"His father was killed by the same filth you associate yourself with.">
<"If you are his guardian, it is no wonder he has such an askew view of our allies,"> Wu Fei snorted, <"I would ask you to teach him manner but it is painfully obvious you have no lessons of value to share with him!">
Wu Fei turned his back to the man, "Miss Noin? Let's get you home."
"WU FEI!" Noin cried out in alarm.
Even if she did not, Wu Fei had heard the man attack. He ducked and swept the man's feet from under him in one deft move.
<"I have no wish to fight in front of my friend, please just go and save yourself from embarrassment,"> Wu Fei sighed exasperatedly.
Angry eyes flared at Wu Fei, then a smirk slowly spread across the man's face when two of his friends emerged from the shadows to join him.
Wu Fei cursed to himself but remained composed. The last thing he wanted was for Noin to feel any more afraid than she might already feel. He backed up and stood protectively in front of her.
<"You're good, kid,"> the man said, <"But are you good enough?">
<"Enough for what?"> Wu Fei scoffed, he had no patience for such bigoted imbeciles, <"To fight you bullies, to protect my friend from mindless barbarians like you, or to recognise that you are not worthy of my time? Why don't you crawl back into whatever hole you came from and leave us alone? We have more important things to concern ourselves with.">
<"You impertinent child! It's people like you who will ruin China!"> he began advancing.
<"Such short-sighted view you have,"> Wu Fei edged Noin back, <"Making friends will only strengthen the nation's position in the world, making enemies, on the other hand, will only lead to its decline and downfall. Who is the impertinent one who will ruin the empire?">
The man rushed Wu Fei again. The boy swept Noin out of the way as he blocked the attack.
"Get the horse!" Wu Fei cried gesturing to one tethered to a post outside a nearby inn, "Go! NOW!"
Noin made no protest as she sprinted to the steed. Anyone who tried to stop her found an angry Dragon in their way. Wu Fei did everything he could to make sure that Noin got away. Hoof beats faded into the night and he was relieved to know that he only had himself to worry about.
Fighting three grown men was not an easy task - especially when two of them were armed with broadswords. They may not have been skilled, but they possessed brute force which could be deadly if well placed. Most of his energy was directed to avoiding the lethal swipes of the blades. He found it difficult to counter the attacks. He needed a weapon - and the length of bamboo holding up an awning by the inn was perfect. Wu Fei made a dive for it.
With the bamboo quarterstaff in his hands, Wu Fei became a real challenge to the three brutes. He was beginning to land more hits on them than they did on him. The brutes soon learned that an expertly wielded quarterstaff could deliver quite a painful blow, and Wu Fei WAS an expert.
Nevertheless, his opponents wouldn't give up. Wu Fei had to admire their persistence if nothing else. Every time he disarmed one of them, the other would pick up the damned sword again. It was frustrating. Yet the youth still refused to employ all his skills in defeating them for fear of seriously hurting the brutes. He did not want to take the chance; he would not kill again, by accident or by design.
When the sound of approaching hoof beats echoed into the night, Wu Fei had initially thought Noin had sought help. She had always been rather protective of him; Wu Fei knew she wouldn't let him face the thugs alone. However, Wu Fei was somewhat wrong.
Yes, she was protective and yes, she wouldn't let him face them alone. What he didn't expect was for her to return, galloping like the wind straight into the fray.
Wu Fei almost had a heart attack when he saw her charging towards them. He was more worried about her than being trampled by the rampaging horse.
Fortunately, the thugs WERE worried about being trampled. They leapt aside as Noin charged them.
"Hurry! Get on!" she cried making the horse stomp furiously to keep the thugs at bay. Reaching out to Wu Fei on one side, she kicked a thug in the face on the other.
Wu Fei leapt for the horse. Barely on, Noin spurred the steed and they rode away, the three men hot on their heels. Their pursuit didn't last long.
Once Noin was satisfied that they were no longer pursuing, she slowed to a canter and began making their way home.
"Miss Noin!" Wu Fei didn't hesitate to reprimand her, "WHAT were you thinking?! You were supposed to ride to safety not come back for me! How can I explain it to Zechs if anything happened to you?"
"Calm down, Wu Fei. I am not entirely helpless. And don't think I'm not appreciative of you taking care of me, I AM. But I could not leave you to face those scoundrels alone. Once I was certain that they didn't see me as a danger, I had to do something to make sure you didn't get yourself killed while trying to protect me."
"So you rode straight into the fight unarmed? What if one of them had gotten a hold of you and pulled you off the horse?"
"But they didn't and I'm safe. I am a proficient rider. I could've gotten the horse to stomp on them before they tried anything," she chuckled.
"This is not a laughing matter, Miss Noin!" Wu Fei scowled, "You could have been hurt!"
"And so could you," Noin countered, "Wu Fei, I don't need you to guard me. I want you to be my friend and look out for me as I would look out for you. Friends help each other in need. The important thing is that at the end of the day, we're both safe."
"I supposed you are right," the Chinese youth sighed, "But please don't do that again! Not unless I know you can keep yourself save without the benefit of a horse!"
"Well, if that didn't sound like an offer to teach me how to defend myself!"
Wu Fei laughed, "You want to learn from me?"
"I cannot think of a better teacher."
"I have to warn you, I am not a patient teacher."
"I am a fast learner. You will have no opportunity to lose your patience! Do I have to call you Master Chang?" she teased.
"What? NO! I'm not taking you as a disciple; I'm hardly qualified for that. I'm just sharing a little knowledge with a friend!"
"You are so easy to tease," she giggled.
"You are incorrigible!"
Just as they rode into the stables, Zechs was riding out. His complexion paled to rival his flaxen hair when he saw Noin, dishevelled and bloodstained, ride up to him.
"Dear GOD!" he rushed to her, "Are you alright? Someone get a doctor! How could you let her get hurt?!"
"ZECHS!" she cried to make herself heard, "I'm alright. It's not mine! Don't shout at Wu Fei."
"What? Are you hurt?" he reached up to help her off the horse, "What in the world happened? You said were only going to the market. You've been gone so long, I thought - "
"Zechs!" she silenced him with a finger on his lips, "Slow down, calm down, we're not hurt. We ran into some anti-British hooligans. One of them threw a bowl of blood at me, they attacked Wu Fei but we got away. I promise you, I am not hurt, just a little tired, and feeling very dirty," Noin then headed back into the house. Wu Fei followed her in silence.
"You were attacked?!" Zechs would not be pacified by the explanation Noin had given him, "Why didn't you go for help?"
"Because if I rode off to find a figure of authority to stop the fight, Wu Fei might have been pummelled to the brink of death by the time we returned. Three against one was hardly fair."
"You fought them?" the blonde cried incredulously.
"Don't be ridiculous! Even I know my limits. I merely startled them with the horse, swept our little Dragon off his feet and together we rode into the twilight."
"Noin, this is hardly a laughing matter! How could you put her in such danger?!" his suddenly turned to face Wu Fei.
"It was not my idea!" Wu Fei replied haughtily, "Do you honestly believe that I would do ANYTHING to put Miss Noin in danger?!"
"Good Lord!" a fourth voice exclaimed, "What in the heaven's name happened? Are you alright, Noin?"
"Yes, Treize, I am fine. None of this is mine. We ran into a little trouble but we took care of it."
"Took care of it?" Treize echoed.
"It's not what you think," Noin rolled her eyes, "As much as I love to stay here to explain myself again or to be shouted at for being 'foolhardy', I would much prefer to rid myself of these soiled garments and have a bath. Wu Fei, thank you for a lovely time. Good night, gentlemen," with that she headed upstairs, not waiting for a protest.
Zechs said no more and hurried after Noin, intent on checking that she was truly all right.
"You look a little worse for wear," Treize approached Wu Fei, "What happened?"
"I will be happy to tell every detail tomorrow. Right now, I wish I get myself cleaned and to bed."
"Did you even realise that you're hurt?" Treize said as he gestured to several spots of blood dripping onto pristine marble tiles.
"It's nothing," Wu Fei wiped the blood away on his tunic, not wanting to dirty the floor further.
"You're bleeding, Wu Fei. When a person bleeds, it's usually something," Treize began inspecting the Chinese youth's right arm, "It looks shallow, but you should get that cleaned and dressed, heaven only knows where the blade's been. Come, let's get you back to your room so I can see to that."
"It's not necessary, Treize."
"Are you usually this stubborn or have you some reservations about me seeing you topless?" the redhead teased.
Right on cue, the Chinese youth flushed.
Treize chuckled, "You know I'm right. You must get that dressed. Besides, I don't want blood trickling all over the house. Stop being difficult."
Wu Fei sighed, "You win. Simply because I'm too tired to argue with you."
"Excellent. I'll need to get a few things."
"I'll wait for you in my room."
Since realising that he had been cut, Wu Fei's arm had begun to throb. He hadn't even noticed when he got the cut. Gingerly, he removed his tunic and threw it into a corner - he would deal with that later. The cut was on the back of his arm. He stood before his mirror and examined the wound. An angry crimson streak, about four inches long, marred his bronze skin. Rivulets of blood trickled down to his elbow and dripped onto the floor. Wu Fei was surprised that it didn't hurt any more than it did. There was a dull ache around his arm but considering the volume of blood coming out of him, he would expect it to be more painful.
This was the first really injury that he was fully aware of. The gunshot wound he sustained during the war was, thankfully, dampened by his emotional trauma. Like now, he didn't realise then that he had been hurt until Duo told him. And even then, the pain didn't register. Wu Fei concluded that he must have a high tolerance of pain.
A knocked sounded and Treize opened it a fraction, "May I come in?"
"Of course," Wu Fei replied.
Treize stepped into the room; a servant bearing a basin of steaming water followed him. After placing the basin on the table she retreated from the room.
"Does it hurt?" Treize prodded the wound.
"It does when you do that."
Treize snorted, "I'm serious."
"So am I!"
"Alright, then, sit. If it doesn't hurt, then I'll just clean it out and dress it. It doesn't look like it needs stitches anyway."
"Do you have the necessary skills to do this?" Wu Fei raised a sceptical eyebrow.
"I'll have you know I was a field medic several years ago, and I am perfectly capable of dressing a flesh wound!"
"Zechs is right, you are easy to rile."
"Imp!" Treize scowled, "We'll see who has the last laugh if I leave you bleeding to death on your own!"
"What? And risk staining the pristine white sheets? OW!" Wu Fei exclaimed as Treize scrubbed his arm, "You may be a capable medic but your bedside manners could improve. Miss Noin is much gentler with her patients and a lot less vindictive."
"Keep talking, Dragon," Treize warned playfully, "And you'll learn the true meaning of pain."
"Empty threats! You wouldn't hurt a poor, wounded, defenceless boy."
"You are hardly defenceless and don't tempt me!" Treize grinned mischievously, "Why don't you tell me what happened now?"
Ten minutes later, the Chinese youth finished his story as Treize finished dressing his wounds.
"She certainly is a strong character," Treize mused, "It is a part of her wily and wilful personality. And that is what Zechs likes about her. If she were an obedient, well-bred Lady, our golden Prince wouldn't come within a mile of her! Nevertheless, it frustrates Zechs to no end. It, too, frustrates me to no end."
Wu Fei giggled, "I can empathise with that. My wife was no different."
"I supposed you did nothing to discourage Noin?"
"I was a little busy trying not to get quartered to help or hinder her in her efforts. Although, I have to admit her boldness did save me from having to draw blood."
"Fair enough," Treize rose, "I should leave you to get some rest."
"Retiring for the night sounds like a good idea. I will see to the return of the horse tomorrow morning," Wu Fei rose.
"Don't worry about that, I'll see to it. You rest," Treize stood closely before the Chinese youth then whispered, "I'm glad you have not been hurt too badly."
"Good night, Treize," Wu Fei muttered; feeling uncomfortable with Treize's proximity.
It was then he realized that that was the first time he had had a personal one on one with the redhead. He had never felt comfortable being alone with Treize when they weren't working. He had managed to inadvertently avoid any forms of personal contact with him until then.
"Sleep well, Dragon." Treize smiled.
[1] The Monkey King's Cantonese name