Chapter Two: Zhang Fei's Reluctant Apology

"Xiaolian, unlock the door." I can hear mother say.

I calmly move to the door, trying not to lose my cool. Obediently, I do as she says.

As I open the door I step back to let her in.

"I'm so sorry Xiaolian. I shouldn't of said that. It didn't mean anything. That man.. his words mean nothing. He is nothing close to an intellectual. You are worth a thousand of him." Mother says in a soothing voice as she wraps her arms around me.

I hug her back briefly, then pull away, "Mother... let me prove myself. I can do it. Let me go to battle. I'll prove that horrible man wrong. I'm not a burden."

"Xiaolian... it is your choice. Are you sure?" Mother says with hesitance, "I don't want you to get hurt. Can't you just let us protect you?"

I turn to her, "No! I have to do this. If those men are going to accept me, then I have to prove I am worth something. Not just a useless and blind girl."

Mother steps towards me, but I back away again.

She stops and sighs, "I knew this was going to happen. Your father will not be pleased."

"I will not be pleased with what, Yue Ying?" Fathers voice asks.

I didn't even hear him approach...

"Xiaolian wishes to prove herself. On the battle field." Mother says to Zhuge Liang.

He steps forwards rapidly and puts both of his hands on my shoulders, "You're not ready. I won't allow it."

Brushing away his hands I say firmly, 'I'll never be ready in your eyes, father. If it were up to you, I'd stay in this house, locked away forever."

He moves his hands back to his sides,"...That is true. I let my emotions get the better of you would be a great asset to us, but..."

"Not on the front lines. Your talent is more suited to behind the scenes. Don't rush onto the battle field because some brute insults you. Use a more intelligent way to prove yourself." Mother says with a kind voice.

I consider for a moment. This makes sense... If I actually did go to the field of battle, I'd just be putting myself and others into danger. I am so short sighted.

I nod my head, "I agree."

I can sense the relief in the atmosphere as Yue Ying puts her hand on my shoulder and says, "Good. Now let's go speak with that drunken brute. I believe that he has something to say to you."

With a confused expression, I am led out of my room and into the fresh air... most likely the courtyard.

'I won't say it!" I hear Zhang Fei yelling.

"Yes you will! You can't insult the young miss without angering our new strategist. Do it." Liu Bei commands.

Zhang Fei growls, "Brother... fine. Only for you."

"You cannot insult a young lady like that, Zhang Fei. It is dishonorable and rude." Zhao Yun says, agreeing with Liu Bei.

We step towards them and Liu Bei calls out, "Master Zhuge Liang, thank you for coming."

Cautiously I step back behind my parents and hide behind them as we near the four men. Honestly, I don't want to be here. These people make me feel on edge.

"Ah, the young mistress. My little brother has something to say to you." Liu Bei says with emphasis on "little brother"

Zhang Fei groans.

I cover my mouth with my sleeve, hiding a small smile.

He saunters heavily towards me, "Brat, I shouldn't of said that. I guess if he's your dad than you must be worth something."

"Zhang Fei!" Liu Bei exclaims.

He snorts, "Sorry," then walks away, stomping his feet and mumbling under his breath.

I stifle my laughter. That man is so childish. He speaks thoughtlessly.

Liu Bei says, 'I hope you can forgive him, Miss Xiaolian."

I push past my parents and smile wryly, "I'll prove myself. Just watch me."

This is uncharacteristically odd for me and even father seems confused, "Xiaolian?"

I smile brightly back, then turn away from them and walk up the stairs carefully back into the building. Nearly, I almost hit the door frame.

Regaining my balance, I lean against the wall once I am out of sight.

That really scared me. I though that Zhang Fei was going to lose it and chop off my head...

I sink on to my knees and sigh.

So many things are changing very suddenly. I wonder if I'll be able to keep up.

Zhang Fei may be right, but I am not completely useless. I can help..

I hope so.

End Chapter Two

Please don't be mad! I know this was a filler, but I thought Zhang Fei needed to be taught a lesson for what he said to Xiaolian. The action will start next chapter, I promise!

Hint: Ever hear of Chang Ban?

(Honestly I really do not like Zhang Fei so I decided to make a fool of him)

Sorry Zhang Fei fans!

Best Wishes,

Shiro Chan