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
Wu Fei had been avoiding Treize - there was no two ways about that. He didn't even bother employing subtlety in doing that. Whenever Treize entered a room he was in, the Chinese youth would quite literally stop whatever he was doing and vacate the area. The only time that he would willingly be in the Governor's presence was during dinner. Zechs and Noin had often looked at him and Treize with curiosity and worry, but neither one asked him. Perhaps Treize had told them. Wu Fei honestly didn't care; in fact he was glad the neither one of them tried to get him to talk to Treize again.
For the moment, Wu Fei's primary responsibility was helping Noin with the orphanage; therefore he didn't even have to work with Treize until the project was completed. It also meant that Wu Fei had an excuse to NOT be in the mansion. He would spend most of his time in the orphanage.
And that suited him just fine.
"Is something a matter?" Heero asked one late afternoon.
Wu Fei was perched upon the roof of the stables watching the evening sun sink into the horizon. The stables were the only building that didn't need much work. It was quietest part of the estate. Wu Fei was surprised at Heero's presence on the rooftop but he didn't show it, not many people would venture up thus far without good reason. In the Chinese youth's opinion, he wasn't a good enough reason.
"No, why do you ask?"
"No offence, Wu-san, but your presence here is hardly needed yet I have seen you loitering here for the past three days." Heero sank into the tiles next to Wu Fei, "I just seems to me that something might be amiss."
"I would rather not speak of it."
"Of course, I didn't mean to pry." Heero moved to stand.
"Don't go," Wu Fei hastily said, "I could use the company; I just don't want to talk about what is bothering me."
Heero gave him a small smile. "You're not afraid to be honest, that is admirable."
Wu Fei felt his heart sink - but, to be honest, he WAS afraid, otherwise he wouldn't be hiding out in the orphanage! He should've been confronting his own feelings and Treize. However, since he came out of the last altercation a little worse for wear. Wu Fei was not quite recovered yet to jump headlong into another one.
"How is your garden coming along?" Wu Fei needed something else to think about.
"Rather well." Heero smiled, "I am pleased with its progress."
"I can hardly wait for its unveiling."
"I hope I don't disappoint."
"I'm certain you won't." Wu Fei returned Heero's smile, "I hear you're very good at what you do."
The Japanese boy blushed, "You did?"
"Miss Noin said that Lady Palmerston had you in her highest praise. And I daresay I know Miss Noin a little, she can be rather pernickety about certain things and wouldn't settle for anything less than the best."
"Arigato, Wu-san." his cheeks were still burning, "I have always loved nature but I started doing what I do out of necessity. I never realised that it could bring me a sense of satisfaction and comfort; eventually I began to appreciate it as an art form. I am glad to know that other people benefit from and appreciate my work as well."
"How do you find Hong Kong? Is it very different from Japan?" Wu Fei wanted to keep the conversation up. Heero was proving a nice distraction to his Treize Dilemma.
"The prominent Western influence in Hong Kong makes all the difference and I do enjoy being among them, learning and living their culture," Heero replied, "As for our nation's difference, I do not think China and Japan are that different when we strip it down to its fundamental values. Honour, duty and class distinction."
Wu Fei laughed, "You too?"
"Hai, me too. We complain about it only because we were subject to it. Our strict adherence to these virtues is envied by cultures out of the East."
"True, without them I do not believe either of our societies would have flourished so well in the past. Notwithstanding, some allowance has to be made in light of the industrial era that the rest of the world has entered."
Heero said nothing for a moment then ventured, a small, amused smile on his lips, "Whatever that has imprinted a frown upon your face must be trying for you to be sitting on a rooftop discussing the boon and banes of our age-old cultures with me."
The Chinese youth snorted, "Yes, it would seem so. Why are we doing this? I wager the other fifteen-year-olds out there would be playing pranks on innocent passer-bys or trying to woo the prettiest girl on the block."
"We do seem old for our age."
"Hey, speak for yourself!" Wu Fei elbowed the Japanese lad.
"I am merely saying it as it is," Heero retorted.
"No, I refuse to admit I'm old." raven head shook stubbornly, "There is time yet for that!"
Heero chuckled, "All right, we're not old, just ... seasoned?"
"Much better!" Wu Fei nodded in agreement, "Have you plans for dinner? Why not join us?"
"Are you certain? I do not wish to intrude."
"Nonsense! Your presence would be welcomed."
"If that is so then I thank you," Heero said as they boys began descending the rooftop to head back to the mansion.
Dinner was a much better affair for Wu Fei, having Heero there meant that he didn't have to join the conversation with Treize. He didn't care if he was being puerile by ignoring the Governor, all the cared about was not feeling awkward for a change.
Heero did not stay long after dinner. He had been working hard and wanted an early start to the next day. Noin and Zechs also disappeared shortly after the meal, leaving Wu Fei alone with Treize. He was about to make a hasty retreat to his room when the Governor waylaid him.
"I want to talk to you alone."
"Oh?" Wu Fei almost stuttered. He steadied himself not wanting Treize to see how uncomfortable he felt, "What about?"
"Chang Li."
"Have you found him?!" Wu Fei almost leapt on Treize, his anxiety forgotten.
"We believe so."
"You believe so? What is that supposed to mean?"
"I mean I have had people reporting Chang Li's whereabouts but no one can be certain that it is the same Chang Li you are looking for. The possibility of someone else having that name is not that remote. However, I have been reassured that he is the one you're looking for. Do you recognise this?"
Treize fished something out from his pocket and handed it to Wu Fei. It was a silver pin with small piece of jade, the name 'Chang' was carved on one side and the word 'phoenix' was on the other side of the stone. Wu Fei recognised it immediately for it belonged to Mei-Ran. In fact, she was wearing the pin the day she died. Only one person could've had it in his possession.
"Yes," he whispered.
"Chang Li had it on him. He was relieved of the item for fearing that it could be used as weapon."
"It's Li, where is he?"
"I have had horses saddled. I knew you would want to go as soon as I told you. Several days ago, he, unfortunately, had been arrested along with a group of local dissidents harassing some foreign merchants. The merchants chose to have those men taken into custody for their nuisance, even if they didn't want them punished."
"My Li would not be part of such a crowd!"
"Maybe not, but I was led to believe that several people might have been mistaken as part of the crowd simply for being at the wrong place at the wrong time."
"Understood. Thank you, Treize," Wu Fei said and marched out of the room without waiting for a reply.
Wu Fei had to refrain himself from riding through the city at breakneck speed. It would do him no good to trample on an unsuspecting resident. A few more minutes wouldn't kill him.
After he rode out of the estate, he realised that Treize had followed him. He made no protest simply because it made no difference if Treize was there or not. Li was his focus.
Although, having Treize there did have an advantage. The moment he reached the constabulary he leapt off his horse and made his way in, leaving the redhead to deal with the horse.
<"I am here for Chang Li,"> Wu Fei stated when he was greeted by an officer.
<"What is your purpose to see him?"> the officer queried.
<"I am not here to see him. I am here to request for his release!"> the Chinese youth snapped.
<"We cannot release offenders who - ">
<"Chang Li is NOT an offender. If he is here, then he has been wrongfully arrested for a transgression that he would not have any part of! Where is your commanding officer?">
<"If there is anything that needs to be dealt with, I will handle it,"> the officer replied haughtily.
<"I do not doubt your capabilities as an enforcer of the law, but I still insist on speaking to Commander Ching,"> Wu Fei said as patiently as possible, the man was only doing his job. It was hardly surprising that he wouldn't release an offender to a fifteen-year-old boy.
<"Commander Ching is currently not available.">
<"Fine, if he's not available then get me someone who will release Chang Li into my custody. I couldn't care less who it was, I just want Chang Li now.">
<"We cannot simply allow - ">
<"I HAVE been patient, officer,"> Wu Fei said between gritted teeth, <"Do not test my patience further.">
"Is there a problem, Wu Fei?" Treize asked when he had finally joined the youth.
"Nothing I cannot deal with."
<"You know the Governor?"> the officer said, wide-eyed.
Wu Fei eyed the man sceptically, <"Is rank and connections the only way to spur you into granting requests?">
<"N.. no! I was ordered not to - ">
<"Well, I'm superseding those orders!">
<"You don't have the authority!">
<"What is going on here?"> another voice entered the room, he recognised Wu Fei immediately, <"Master Chang, is something a matter?">
<"Commander Ching."> Wu Fei bowed to the older man, <"Yes, something is a matter, I am here for Chang Li.">
<"Chang Li?">
<"I was told that he was arrested along with the group that were causing trouble down at the docks. I can vouch for him. He has been wrongfully arrested and I respectfully request for his release into my custody.">
<"Let me check the roster, Master Chang,"> Commander Ching said leafing through a large book leather-bound book, <"Ahh, he is here indeed. I will have someone retrieve him.">
<"If you have no objections, I will fetch him myself.">
<"None."> Commander Ching shook his head, <"I will take you there myself. This way, please.">
Silently, Wu Fei and Treize followed the Commander to the holding cells. Wu Fei was surprised to find that each and every cell had at least two people in them and there were no less than fifteen cells. Commander explained that majority of those incarcerated were suspect of antagonising the merchants earlier. Wu Fei wondered how many of them were innocent like Li.
Before the Commander could point out which cell Li was in, Wu Fei spotted Li and his heart wrenched at the sight of his life long friend.
Li looked terrible and he knew that it wasn't because of his brief incarceration. Li, who had always been skinny, now looked gaunt and emancipated. His hair was untidy and dull. His complexion was pale and an aura of weariness hung around him. Wu Fei didn't even want to guess what he had gone through during the war.
The Chinese youth bit back a tear, his heart burdened by guilt. While Li was undoubtedly fighting everyday to survive the war, he was being pampered and taken care of by the enemy. Would Li even want to see him? Did Li blame or wrong him for his weakness and his inability to protect those under his care?
Wu Fei stood rooted to the ground as he stared at his friend. Li had not notice Wu Fei's presence, he was sitting in the corner of the cell, looking rather dejected and forlorn. That was hardly a surprise.
"Wu Fei?" Treize whispered.
"I'm fine." the Chinese replied before Treize could say anything more.
The Commander swung the doors to Li's cell open and request for Chang Li to approach. Li struggled to his feet and shuffled out the door. Wu Fei the noticed that he walked with a limp.
"It's not your fault." Treize stood closely behind him, his hand lightly on Wu Fei's shoulder, "We were at war, you can make amends."
"Can I?"
"Everyone can make amends."
<"I am Chang Li, Commander."> Li bowed to Commander Ching.
<"You are free to go.">
<"I am?"> Li's eyes lit up in surprised. It was no wonder since his previous protests and claims of innocence was ignored.
<"Yes, someone has vouched for you.">
<"Who?">
Commander Ching gestured to Wu Fei, still standing away from the cell, obscured by the shadows. He took a step into the torchlight.
Li's eyes widened, then filled with unshed tears. The look of unadulterated joy and disbelieve filled the thin, bony face. Wu Fei almost crumpled under the weight of the guilt that bore down on him.
<"M..mm..master Wu.... ?"> Li whispered as if speaking any louder would make Wu Fei disappear.
<"Yes, Li."> Wu Fei approached him, <"It is I.">
No more words came from Li; he rushed to Wu Fei and fell on his knees before him, crying tears of joy and relief. Wu Fei felt like Li had just released the burden he had been carrying. The burden of finding his Master, the burden of guilt that he could not have been with his Master to serve and protect him.
Hastily, Wu Fei dipped to stop Li. He held the youth by his elbows and lifted him up. Wu Fei wasn't surprised that Li hardly weighed anything. He hadn't grown much either. In the past year, the young Dragon had gained no less than five inches in height, Li looked like he didn't even make two.
<"There is little need for that, Li! Remember we don't need that kind of formality between us.">
<"You're alive! Master Duo kept his promise!"> Li sobbed hysterically, <"He said he would take care of you! Master Wu, forgive me; I could not care for you as he did! I'm so sorry...">
<"Li! Stop!"> Wu Fei cried, his own tears threatening, <"You didn't do anything wrong! I will not have you apologise for some error you didn't commit. Come, let me take you home, we will speak of this at length later.">
<"Home? Back to Canton?"> Li asked as he scrubbed tears from his eyes.
<"No, Hong Kong is my home now. I have nothing left in Canton.">
<"I need to get something first!"> Li said, almost panicking.
<"I will send for someone to retrieve your belongings later. I want to get you home, fed and cleaned up first.">
<"NO! We must get this, we must, please!"> Li clutched at Wu Fei desperately.
<"Okay, okay,"> Wu Fei conceded seeing what a state Li was getting himself into, <"We will go get this something of yours then go home. Where is it?">
<"In my room, by the docks.">
<"Alright, we'll go to the docks first."> Wu Fei then turned to thank the Commander and advised Treize of their detour before heading home.
Li, renewed with a burst of elation of finding his Master, seemed much more lively and well. A faint glimmer of joy was now reflected in his eyes. He no longer hunched, as if the weight of the world was on him, but he still moved with frailty and weariness. There was only so much the emotions could improve a person's physical state.
Li's room was bare with the exception of basic furniture, bedding and a few items of clothing. Wu Fei was at least glad that he had a roof over his head. As soon as Li entered his room he began pulling on the chest of drawers that was against the far wall of the room.
<"Li, we can get you another chest,"> Wu Fei said stopping his friend, he was certain that Li was going to hurt himself doing that. The boy didn't look like he had the strength to swat a fly.
<"No, I need to get behind it,"> Li protested, <"I had to hide it, make sure no one got to it.">
<"Behind it? Okay, I'll move it. You SIT DOWN!"> he commanded, then proceeded to drag the chest, it hardly moved, <"Gods, Li! What have you in here? Bricks?">
"Do you need a hand, Wu Fei?" Treize approached. He had been silent since they left the local constabulary.
"Yes, please."
Together, they managed to slide the chest of drawers a few feet from the wall. Behind it, they were surprised to find a little alcove, three bricks wide and four bricks high. Wu Fei chuckled to himself; perhaps the missing bricks WERE in the drawers!
Li stooped and lifted out from the wall a wooden box. It was unadorned and locked. Wu Fei guessed that it was the last of Li's treasured possessions. Just like the ones that Duo had saved for him. The boy wrapped it in a large piece of cloth and tied the ends together, creating a makeshift bag.
<"Don't pack any clothes, I'll get you more. Is there anything else you want?"> Wu Fei asked.
Li shook his head.
<"Let's get you home then.">
While servants prepared food, a bath and a room for Li, Wu Fei took the boy up to his own room. He thought that Li would feel better being away from the others while he settled down. Li had always been shy and submissive in front of strangers and authoritative figures. Being in Treize, Zechs and Noin's presence would undoubtedly unnerve him.
The moment the door to his room shut, Wu Fei found Li on his knees again, sobbing.
<"Li! Stop that!"> Wu Fei pleaded, but the boy wouldn't rise from his knees, <"I do not blame you for anything, I do not hold you responsible. It was a difficult time for all of us! We were at war. As you can see, I have survived, yes, thanks to Duo but that doesn't me you have failed in your duty! From what Duo told me, you served Mei-Ran well.">
That must've been the wrong thing to say as Li wailed in greater despair.
<"I did fail Miss Mei-Ran!"> Li cried between sobs. <"I couldn't honour her befitting a Lady of the Chang family!">
<"Don't be ridiculous! Mei-Ran wouldn't have expected you to give a grand funeral in that testing time. Heck, she wouldn't have expected one even if we were at peace!">
<"I promised I would! I told Master Duo I would,"> Li continued, <"I couldn't, didn't want to leave her in a forgotten grave...">
<"What?"> Wu Fei blinked, <"What do you mean by that?">
<"Master Wu, I had to bring her back to you. She belongs with you, this is the only way I knew how to do it..."> Li stretched his arms out and offered the wooden box he had been clutching all this while to Wu Fei.
Wu Fei's knees weakened and he sank to the ground before Li. He took the box from Li, his mind whirring in confusion and surprise, <"You... she...?">
<"Yes, I went to the temple, they were willing to help me even though soldiers were fighting right outside the door. There was no mourning period, we couldn't. After the prayers, we laid her to rest. I knew I had to find you again even if it took me the rest of my life. I had to bring her ashes back to you. Only you have the right to decided what to do."> Li pushed the key to the lock into Wu Fei's palm.
Fresh tears tumbled from Wu Fei's eyes as he fumbled with the cloth around the box. He stared at the box, his hands trembling too much to open the clasp. Eventually, he succeeded. Nestled within the padded box was an urn. It was austerely adorned yet it was elegant in its simplicity - just like Mei-Ran was. Wu Fei caressed it gingerly, as if it would crack under the slightest pressure.
Wu Fei was not prepared for the onslaught of emotions that battered him. The past few days had already been rather emotionally draining; he had not expected to find his wife that same day.
The tears now ran unbidden, wounds that never quite healed bled freely once again. A white-hot dagger stabbed Wu Fei in the heart. Having finally have Mei-Ran 'with' him again, the pain of loneliness made itself even more apparent. Even though he had accepted his loss, he knew that he would never recover from it. He would never come to feel her warmth or see her smile or hear her voice again. They would never hold one another or experience the trial and triumphs of life. He would never comfort her in her sorrow or share with her his joys. They would never have children or grow old together. He could never tell her he loved her or hear her return his affections.
Never.
He had lost the most important thing in his life and there was nothing anyone could do to make it better. Not even Treize in all his charm and glory.
Wu Fei hugged himself close, the world around him faded to nothing as he allowed the pain to overtake him. He felt no desire or inclination to stop it, it would only return to haunt him. Let it come, he deserved no less for failing to protect her.
A gentle hand rested on his shoulder. Wu Fei half expected it to be Li but it was concerned blue eyes that held him tenderly. Even through the haze of pain and anguish, Wu Fei could not deny that Treize DID care for him. The Governor did, indeed, understand the hurt.
Abandoning all restraint, Wu Fei collapsed into the welcoming embrace and cried his heart out. The redhead gathered the youth into his arms and simply held him. No words were exchanged; none were needed.
Wu Fei didn't know how long they stayed there in each other's arms, nor did he realise that Li had disappeared from room. All he became away of was the comfort that engulfed him and the very faint scent of roses the permeated his senses.
A very soft knock resounded in the still bedroom. Treize gently extricated himself and answered the door. On the other side of the door, Wu Fei heard a low voice asking the Governor if everything was all right. Wu Fei recognised it was Noin. Treize answered just as quietly.
Treize stepped aside to let Noin in. She had in her hands a tray with a pot of chrysanthemum tea and two cups. She silently laid it on the table.
"How is Li doing?" Treize asked Noin, obviously for Wu Fei's benefit.
"Sound asleep," Noin smiled, as she poured the tea, "Zechs and I packed him off to bed when he kept threatening to fall into his supper face first. He insisted on waiting up till Wu Fei called for him but we wouldn't hear of it. Zechs had to promise him that he would be waken up if Wu Fei did need him. Once his head touched the pillow, he was sound asleep as a babe."
"That's good to hear."
"I'm off to bed now, don't stay up. Good night." with that Noin left the room.
Wu Fei had been oblivious to Noin and Treize's interaction. In fact, the only thing that seemed to have his attention was the cup in his hand. He stared at the little cup, watching the steam waft in the air and slowly disappear. All he focused on was the steam and didn't dare to think of anything else for fear that he would crumble to pieces.
Treize something but Wu Fei didn't hear the words, just the sound, distant and muffled.
"Wu Fei!" this time the voice was clear and sharp and Wu Fei started, upsetting the tea in his hand. He stared wide-eyed and bewildered up at Treize. Treize stared back enquiringly.
"Where's Li?!" Wu Fei exclaimed, a tinge of panic on his voice.
"Asleep in one of the guest rooms. Don't worry, Zechs and Noin are taking care of him," Treize replied, taking the cup from him, "Are you feeling a little better?"
"No," Wu Fei replied dispiritedly, "But I will survive. Thank you for being here."
"Anytime, Dragon."
Wu Fei's eyes trailed down to the Governor's shoulder and he flushed a rich shade of fuchsia, "...uh ... sorry..." he said gesturing to the messy shirt.
Treize chuckled, "Don't worry about that. Tears can be washed from clothes. I would favour being a comfort to a friend then fret about a little mess. Is there anything else I can do for you?"
Wu Fei remained silent for a moment then dared to look at Treize again, "There is something..."
"Name it."
"I would like some time alone to mourn Mei-Ran."
"Take all the time you need."
"As I have considered this my home, I would like an altar to honour her and my ancestors."
"I will see to that one befitting a warrior of the Chang family is built within the estate of the Governor's Manor," Treize proclaimed, "While we are here, I'll arrange a room to be dedicated to her and your family."
"Thank you, I owe you - "
"You owe me nothing!" Treize interrupted, "As I said, I am happy to help a friend in need. Your gratitude is payment enough."
Wu Fei bowed wordlessly.
Treize then moved to stand, "It's late and I should let you rest. Have some tea, I'm certain Noin would have ... enhanced it with her own remedy to promote a restful sleep."
"Please don't go," Wu Fei whispered.
"You want me to stay?" Treize asked, in no small amount of disbelief.
Wu Fei blushed as he looked up at the redhead, his eyes pleading, "... have tea with me...?"
"Of course," Treize smiled at him, there was almost a paternal look in his expression, "Only if you do one thing for me?"
Wu Fei didn't answer or question him.
Treize continued, "I want you to be comfortable, I want you to get some sleep, so lets get you into bed."
He extended his hand to the boy and Wu Fei took it.
Silently, Wu Fei allowed Treize to steer him to bed, for the first time he didn't fear if Treize might have an ulterior motive.
"How did she die?" Wu Fei asked, his voice barely above a murmur, as Treize pulled his blanket over him.
"She was ill," Treize answered immediately, knowing exactly whom Wu Fei referred to.
"When did you lose her?"
"Two years, five months, three weeks and two days ago." Treize handed a cup of tea to Wu Fei before sitting down next to him.
"Has the pain stopped?"
"...no ..." the Governor sipped his tea, "Even if it might one day, I'll never let it happen."
"I see."
The pair sat for a moment in companionable silence savouring Noin's delicious tea.
"Tell me more about her," Wu Fei said. Surprisingly, after he set his teacup down on the bedside table, he turned to lean on Treize. The Governor made no protest; in fact he threw his arm around the boy.
The redhead said nothing for a while, then in a hushed whisper he began, "I remember the day I first laid eyes on her like it was yesterday, and even then, I knew I wanted no one else but she. She was the fairest of her debutante ball. Tall and elegant, her hair was like molten bronze, her eyes the softest, deepest brown I've ever seen, her lips full and red. She was dressed in a gown of silver and lilac, bedecked in the finest gems money could buy. But in the ocean of pretty stones, she was the only priceless jewel.
"I was not smitten, nay, I was spellbound by this enchantress. It took me a few hours before I plucked up enough courage to approach her," Treize chuckled, "I had never been that nervous in my life and not ever since. But it was all worth it. The enchantress herself had been waiting all night for me to approach her. We danced the night away and I foolishly believed that it would all end like a fairy tale.
"We had six glorious months, six months of pure, unadulterated joy." the Governor sighed, "Then came the difficult, most trying eight months of my life where all I could do is sit and watch her languish in pain. I asked for her hand but she refused, she did not want to make me a widower before I reached my twentieth birthday. I would have died with her, if she had asked me, I would have died in her stead, if it were possible.
"The doctors could do nothing for her. She accepted her destiny bravely and vowed to live life to the fullest. In that time, I did not see a frown or a tear, she made no complain, she made no demands. She played the cards that fate had dealt her with courage and determination. Her body may have failed her but her spirit would not go silently into the night. One of the many things I loved about her. She was a true warrior."
"Sh'sounds worthy of you," Wu Fei murmured sleepily.
"On the contrary, I was the one who had to prove my worth to her. I have not her strength nor her will."
"Whassa name?"
"She will always be my number one," Treize whispered as he stroked black silky locks, lulling Wu Fei to slumber, "She was my Lady Une."
Wu Fei woke up at the crack of dawn, much to his dismay. The morning sun was filtering into his room through the gaps of the half closed blinds and lit the room in a pale golden wash. He blinked at the offending blind irritably. He felt really tired, his eyes were hurting and he was convinced that he fell asleep just minutes ago.
Determined to thwart the sun's efforts to wake him up, conveniently ignoring the fact that he was already awake, he turned his back on the window and threw the blanket over his head. Just as he upset everything lying peacefully on his bed he noticed that there was something else in bed with him. Blinking the sleep out of his eyes, he spied a serenely slumbering face framed by a mop of unruly red hair.
Squeaking, he propelled himself backward, shocked to find the Governor in his bed... or was HE in the Governor's bed? ... Wu Fei tumbled over the edge of his bed, taking the blanket and bedside table and candlestick with him.
Even if the squeak didn't wake Treize, the racket that followed surely would have. Treize woke with a start; he bolted right up and surveyed his surroundings then began giggling when he saw Wu Fei on the floor, staring wide-eyed and slacked-jaw at him.
"I'm sorry." Treize tried to still his chuckling, leaned over the other side of the bed and extended his hand to the Chinese youth, "I shouldn't laugh, are you alright?"
"What are we doing in the same bed?!" Wu Fei cried ignoring the outstretched hand before him.
"You don't remember what happened last night?" Treize asked softly.
"What do you mean.... " Wu Fei trailed off when he saw the redwood box sitting on his table. Without meaning to, the corners of his eyes became damp again. He tore his eyes away from the box and looked at the man in his bed instead, " ... I remember... Sorry, Treize. You have been supportive and caring and I really appreciate it. You didn't have to stay the night, you know? I wager it would have been more comfortable in your own bed."
"I'm a soldier, Wu Fei. We learn how to sleep anywhere, anytime. This is luxury in comparison to some places I have taken forty winks in. You asked if I would stay with you and I said I would." he shrugged nonchalantly and began putting his boots back on.
"Thank you."
"There is no need to thank me every other minute, Wu Fei." the redhead smiled, "I'm glad you CAN turn to me in your time of need. I'll leave you be now, if Zechs find me here in a mild state of undress, he'll have a glorious time with the teasing!"
Wu Fei gaped, "What? But it was nothing!"
"It matters little if it was anything or not. Surely you realized by now that Zechs and I will seize every opportunity to harass each other despite the truth behind the matter?"
"But ... "
"Don't worry, I'm sure Noin will come to your rescue. I, on the other hand, will have to protect myself." Treize headed to the door the paused and turn to regard Wu Fei intently, "I know you probably don't want to see anybody but please come down to breakfast. It'll do you no good to starve yourself."
Wu Fei nodded and mustered a small smile, "I will certainly try."
Wu Fei lingered in his room and took his time to wash and dress. There were moments he could do nothing but sit and stare at the box. Try as he might, Wu Fei could not bring himself to join the others for breakfast. He didn't feel like facing them, nor did he feel like eating. So after he sent a servant to the others with his apologies, he went in search of Li instead.
Wu Fei stood silently by the door watching Li. Li was in the servants' dining room eating breakfast and chatting quietly with another servant. Wu Fei recognized the man as Hoong. The young Dragon was relieved to see Li in a much better mood. He had a voracious appetite and it would seem he had made a new friend. At least Li looked like he had taken the first steps to healing.
Smiling to himself, Wu Fei entered the room. Hoong immediately rose to his feet seeing Wu Fei approach, Li who had his back to the door, turned to look why Hoong stood up.
Upon spotting Wu Fei, he dropped his chopsticks and leapt to his feet, <"Master Wu! What can I do?">
<"You can sit down and finish your breakfast."> Wu Fei smiled at him and took a seat next to him, <"There's no need to rush, Li. I don't want you choking yourself.">
<"Yes, Master,"> Li replied between mouthful of noodles.
Hoong had excused himself to carry on with his chores. Wu Fei was glad for the moment of privacy that the man had given them.
<"Did you sleep well?"> Wu Fei asked.
<"The best in months."> Li smiled.
A cold dread settled in Wu Fei's stomach, he recognized it as guilt. Something he had, unfortunately, grown to know all too well. Wu Fei tried not to grimace, <"That's good. Do you have everything you need?">
<"Yes, Lady Noin and Master Zechs has given me a lot of things. Too much really and they gave me one of the guest rooms! I don't think I should be there. May I move to the servants' quarters? Or to the adjoining servant's room to yours?">
<"You don't have to move, Li.">
<"No."> Li looked positively aghast at the idea of staying in the main living quarters, <"It's not proper! I belong with the servants.">
<"You also forgot that you are my valued friend and my companion, Li,"> Wu Fei replied gently, <"You've been through a lot, I want you to get well then we'll decide on what to do.">
<"I'm not ill, Master Wu."> Li frowned, <"I can still work.">
<"I have no doubt about it but I want you rested, at least for a few days before you launch yourself into any kind of work. Besides, there isn't anything that needs to be done around here that isn't already been taken care of by the current staff. Moreover, Miss Noin will probably gut me if she knew I gave you permission to do anything but rest.">
<"Why would Lady Noin do that?">
<"She's a nurse, Li."> Wu Fei smiled, <"And she's very protective of her patients. I have no doubt she has considered you to be her patient. So be good, listen to your Master Wu and Lady Noin and take it easy, okay?">
<"As you command, Master."> a hint of cheekiness glinted in the boy's eye. Wu Fei was glad to see the war did not quash the humour out of Li.
<"Imp!"> Wu Fei smacked him in the arm, <"Come, it's a beautiful day outside. Let us enjoy it in the garden. We have much to share!">
The boys made their way out to the rear courtyard. They found Treize lounging in the bright morning sun. He was lying on his side on the grass, the sun upon his back and a book in his hand. He was dressed in a casual white cotton shirt and a pair of khaki slacks. His feet were bare and his hair somewhat windswept.
Wu Fei stared for a moment, realising that he had never seen the Governor this casual and relaxed before. Treize looked carefree and serene. There was no hint of any of the other facades that Wu Fei had seen before. This was yet another new side of Treize that Wu Fei had discovered.
The Governor looked so content, Wu Fei was reluctant to intrude. Before they could retreat, Treize looked up from his book and gave him a bright brilliant smile.
"Wu Fei." Treize rolled onto his belly and propped himself up on his elbows, "We missed you at breakfast."
Wu Fei gave him a half-hearted shrug, as he drew closer, "I wasn't hungry."
"Be sure you don't skip lunch as well."
"Don't worry, I wouldn't dare. If Miss Noin found out that I had been skipping meals she'll probably tie me to a chair and force feed me."
"That's very true." Treize then looked past Wu Fei, "You're both welcomed to join me, unless of course you would rather have the place to yourself?"
"Oh, no, you don't have to go. You were here first."
"It's okay. I think I've had just about enough sun. I am still an Englishman, after all! I can only take so much midday sun." Treize rose to his feet.
"Are you sure?"
"I am, the garden is yours. I'll talk to you later, Dragon." the redhead began walking back to the house but not before giving Wu Fei a wink.
He's flirting with me again?! Wu Fei thought incredulously. Gaping at the Governor for a brief moment, he snapped his mouth shut and turned his attention back to Li. The boys then headed to the gazebo and settled down on one of the benches. They said little at first only talking about casual and trivial matters or reminiscing the past. Wu Fei knew that they both wanted to ask about the war, they both needed to know but neither one of them seemed to have plucked enough courage to ask each other questions that they had been asking themselves.
Wu Fei finally took the plunge and asked Li where he had been this past eleven months.
The shine in Li's eyes clouded for a moment and Wu Fei felt guilty for asking. Perhaps he shouldn't have asked. What did it matter? Maybe Li did not want to relive those memories again. Maybe the only way Li knew how to move on was to forget.
Wu Fei opened his mouth to retract his question but Li spoke instead.
<"Lots of places,"> he whispered, <"I stayed in Canton for a while, hoping that I could hear any news of your whereabouts. I knew Master Duo took you to his doctor but you were very badly hurt. I didn't know if you had lived. I was hoping that if I stayed, I might be able to find Master Duo.">
<"Duo and I were taken to Lintin Island,"> Wu Fei replied, <"There is a western hospital there. I was told I would've surely died if I stayed in Canton. Did you stay there long?">
<"As long as I could. After honouring Miss Mei-Ran as best I could, I also tried to find the Master but the soldiers wouldn't let me pass. They didn't believe I was one of the Master's servants. I heard he was like a man possessed after he found the house in ruins, you and Miss Mei-Ran gone. He did everything in his power to quell the British forces, but they were too strong. I heard he died in a fierce battle with one of the strongest British Regiment. He died for his Empire, Master Wu. He died bravely.">
<"I know, Li,"> Wu Fei replied, <"What happened then?">
<"I stayed there for months but things were getting worse, so I thought of going to Shanghai. Maybe if I could find Lady Hoi Yee again, she can help me protect Miss Mei-Ran until you returned. After days of journeying north east, I heard that Shanghai had fallen into the British's hand."> Li's eyes were brimming with unshed tears, <"I thought of going to Peking as well, but I knew I had to be realistic. I doubted I could make it there. Not with the war raging all around us. I did everything I could to stay alive, moving from city to city, I banded together with other refuges, doing ... things and serving the military in exchange for protection, food and a roof over our heads at night. It was hard work but it was worth it if it meant I get to see the end of the war to find you... or your resting place...">
<"I'm sorry, Li."> Wu Fei gripped the boy's shoulder. He felt like crying but he was determined to be strong for Li's sake.
<"No, Master Wu, it's not your fault!"> Li exclaimed, <"Bad things happen during war, none of this is anyone's fault. I'm just happy that I've found you again.">
<"I'm happy too."> Wu Fei mustered a smile, <"You don't have to tell me anymore Li. It doesn't matter. All that matters is that you're alive. For that I thank the gods.">
<"I'm glad you're alive too."> Li scrubbed his eyes with the hem of his sleeve and sniffed, then added quietly, <"I'm sorry Miss Mei-Ran isn't here with you, I should not have left her... ">
<"Li, NO!"> Wu Fei grabbed his shoulders and forced the boy to look at him, <"You did not fail her, you understand? In fact, Duo told me you were doing as she had asked you to! You respected her last wishes and you honoured her in her death. I know Mei would not wrong you. You were loyal to her. I do not want to hear you blaming yourself for her death!">
<" ... yes, Master Wu ... " Li mumbled, startled and afraid of the conviction in Wu Fei's voice. In a timid voice he added, <"Miss Mei-Ran wouldn't blame you either.">
Wu Fei abruptly let go of Li and turned his back on the boy. A rogue tear trickled down his cheek. His voice trembled as he whispered, <"She may not, but I will. Always.">
<"Master Wu - ">
<"I have my last duty as her husband to perform, Li,"> Wu Fei said interrupting Li, <"She asked me to mourn her for seven days and seven nights then mourn no more. I must complete it before I do anything else.">
<"What do you need me to do?"> Li rose.
<"As I said, you would do nothing. This is MY duty.">
<"But - ">
<"No buts, Li."> Wu Fei held his hand up to silence Li, <"Besides, you are not fit for travel.">
<"Travel? Where are you going?">
<"To Henan,"> the young Dragon said.
<"Why there?">
<"There's a monastery there sifu told me about. In his youth he would spend time there in training. I will request for retreat there and spend seven days and night in solitude, fasting and meditating. I do not wish to carry out my duty here, having people tiptoe around me like I'm going to shatter at the first hint of pressure. I want to be alone, with Mei,"> and he added silently to himself, and I need to be away from Treize. This is for Mei.
<"I will prepare for your journey.">
Wu Fei sighed, <"You are determined to do something, aren't you?">
<"It's in my nature to serve, Master Wu."> Li smiled, <"And you can't stop me.">
<"Just don't over work yourself, Li. I don't want Miss Noin scolding me for being inhumane to you!">
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