The road to Wu from Shu isn't terribly far, seeing as all three kingdoms neighbor each other. It depends where you are and when you leave. With you residing in Shu you, just go east from the capital. Traveling from kingdom to kingdom is typically your least favorite part about being a Mercenary. You now have company in the form of your wife. Diaochan and Yinping were conversing during the trip as you descend toward Wu.

"We're almost there. Be careful. The citizens don't mind me, but as soon as we run into a high up in the army, that's when the animosity will begin," you say to the group.

"Why would the army be hostile toward you?"

Yinping told the story. "The last time Lord Yuan was here, Sun Jian made some very rash claims about him, and in response, Yuan injured his entire cabinet. It's why he was hesitant to accept the job Lady Sun offered him until she gave him the Mark of Wu. He had no choice at that point."

"Wow, Milord. I would never think that you would earn the ire of Wu of all Kingdoms," Diaochan remarks. "Wei is usually the kingdom people tend to avoid."

"Don't get me wrong. I hate Cao Cao and his hypocritical viewpoints. But he respects my status as a Mercenary, so I leave him alone. Sun Jian doesn't, and why my views on Wu are a little sour." You all stop at the border checkpoint. "We're here. I'll head into the palace alone."

"But why?" Diaochan asks. "We can hold our own, Milord!"

"I know that, but I don't want to give Sun Jian and his family any ammunition or reason to fire. There's no doubt we can annihilate everyone beyond those walls. But Lady Sun didn't ask me to go on a killing spree and instructed to only attack if they swing first. Doing this peacefully is our main objective," you give your reason.

Yinping comes up to you. "At least take one of us with you."

You sigh and would instead not bring anyone, but you may need to should things go awry. Having another warrior beside you would help in fending off the army.

"Alright." You look at your wife. "Diao, you're coming with me.."

"Of course, milord," she tells you.

You turn to look at Yinping. "You will stay outside."

With that, the three of you traverse into Wu, the trek to the palace not too far off now.

"Milord?"

"Yes, Diao?"

"Do you really think something bad will happen while we're here?"

"I have a strange feeling something will. However, your relationship with them is better than mine, so I may just be overthinking things. Luckily, I don't have to necessarily give the letter to Sun Jian specifically. I can give it to a member of his cabinet. If we're that fortunate, that is."

You all continue for the palace until a voice calls out to you. "What are you doing here, Yuan Lei?"

It was then that you all gaze at the person in question. "Lianshi... How's Zhou Yu?"

She folds her arms, not happy to see you. "Spare me the sarcasm, Mercenary."

"Not being sarcastic, but whatever you say, Lianshi."

"Why are you here in Wu?" she demanded. "The fact that you show your face after committing-"

"I have a message from Lady Sun to give to His Redness," you interrupt as you show her the envelope that holds Sun Shang Xiang's Letter. "Plus, I have this." You then show Lianshi the Mark of Wu. "My attack on your family is now nulled. But since you're here, give the letter to Sun Jian, and we'll be on our way."

"What do I look like, your maid?" Lianshi rhetorically asks. "This is a matter where you have to give it to Lord Sun himself. You can bring one person with you."

You nod. "So be it. Come on, Diaochan."

"Diaochan?" Lianshi turns toward your wife. "You are not with Lu Bu?"

"He's dead. Yuan killed him some time ago. I am now his wife, as he saved me from Lu Bu's insanity."

Lianshi stares in disbelief. It did make sense. The only news she and Wu heard of is when your rep, like a mighty warrior, is on the clock. So the fact that you did some good shocked her.

She quickly turns around. "This way, you two."

With that, Lianshi leads you and Diaochan to the Wu palace. It may not seem like it now, but she's terrified of your presence after attacking the army. What made it obvious was how she viewed Wu before and after that event.

Lianshi was convinced that Wu, specifically the Sun family, (Sun Ce mostly) were untouchable - until you came along. Sun Jian's brash claim temporarily drew you over the edge. You showed restraint despite blowing through the entire family with little effort, Lianshi witnessing the massacre from afar. From that day forward, she no longer viewed you as another Chinese man, but a monster among men, and the biggest threat to Wu's existence. Alas, she's too frightened of you to tell anyone.

The entire time on the way, she snuck glances at you to make sure you wouldn't pull anything. You started to get a little annoyed. "Is there a problem?"

"I don't know what you're talking about, Mercenary," she quickly replied.

You didn't buy that excuse. "Really? Because you keep looking back at me. What? Afraid I'm going to attack you?"

Lianshi looked like she was ready to pout, but her demeanor changed to a calmer one. "Yes, I'm horrified. You are a problem, Yuan Lei."

"A problem to who? I'm just a mercenary."

She stopped to eye you critically. "Who easily dispatched of Wu's most powerful warrior and killed the most feared man in China. What's stopping you from killing everyone in the army?"

"One, Lady Sun wouldn't approve because she hired me not to kill anyone if possible. Two, I don't kill for fun, to prove a point, or for money. Three, I'll be losing an entire family's worth of clients if I killed them all. Besides, it was Sun Jian who started this mess. He's the one who said I'm a soldier for Wu, a blatant lie. I responded by proving a point and don't align myself with an army who's weaker than myself." Your impatience is now on hand to see. "Now stop asking stupid questions and keep walking."

Lianshi throws you a nasty glare. "Follow me."

The walk continues in silence the rest of the way as you and Diaochan keep up. Finally, you all arrive at the palace entrance.

"I will tell Lord Sun about your presence and purpose here. Just a moment." Lianshi enters the palace, leaving you and Diao outside temporarily.

"She could've let us in the main foyer at least," you voice your opinion.

"Not to worry, dearie. Your patience is far more paramount than Wu's pettiness." Diaochan says as she kisses your cheek.

You look at Sky Piercer. "Is it too heavy?"

She shakes her head. "No, I can still carry it. I'm stronger than I look, milord. Don't worry about me." She reassures before playfully flexing her free arm which earns a chuckle from you.

"Ok, just let me know if you can't anymore," you say. "It is my sword."

"Of course, my dear."

Just then, Lianshi approaches you both. "Lord Sun will see you now. Please don't mind the others. You may be exempt from your crimes, but some of the officers aren't as forgiving."

You nod again. "We won't. Come, Diao."

And you all enter, Lianshi leading from the front to the Throne Room, and you can see she wasn't kidding. Everyone whom you injured last time is also present. Zhou Yu, Zhou Tai, Sun Ce, Taishi Chi, and Sun Jian are all in the room with you and Diaochan, tension thick as a loaf of bread. There were also some faces you didn't recognize.

"Yuan Lei!" Lord Sun booms from his throne in rage. "You have some nerve showing your face in Wu after what you pulled. Why is it that you and your wife have come into my Throne Room?"

Taking a hushed breath, you approach the foot of the stairs. "Your Redness, I have come with a letter from your daughter, Lady Sun Shang Xiang."

"I will take that." Zhou Yu snatched the letter from your hand and handed it to Sun Jian.

"The letter pretty much states how she's disappointed that Wu has breached the alliance with Shu so soon after she married Liu Bei. As a result, she has decided to cut ties with Wu and you all to stay with Liu Bei as her feelings for him are genuine."

Sun Jian scanned the letter, his face etched in sadness with every word he read. "My Shangxiang..." he mutters in regret before eyeing his guest. "Is this all you have for me?"

"Yes. Now, if allowed, we'll leave. Just know that because of Lady Sun's Mark, I can now retake jobs here. I'm not going to say that this is nothing personal that it is just business. But if I learned anything in my time as a Mercenary, is that all business is personal. Don't harm the messengers, harm the writer. In this case, Lady Sun. Have a nice evening, Your Redness."

"Have a nice evening, Lord Sun," Diaochan says as she bowed.

You turn to leave, but Sun Jian stops you both. "Hold!" His tone then changed completely. "How about you and Diaochan stay for dinner? A sign of our renewed relationship."

"As much as we would like to, milord, we aren't traveling alone. Yinping has been left alone in the main town." Diaochan explains.

"Then bring her as well! We will meet in an hour! I expect to see you all there. Dismissed!" he orders his men.

The room cleared within a minute, Lianshi included. You and Diao try to get out as fast as possible so you can talk with Cang and Yinping about how suspicious Sun Jian is acting.

But one of the strangers pulls you aside, looking like he was ready to fight somebody. "Hey."

"Is there a problem, stranger?"

"Not at all! Name's Gan Ning of the Bells!"

You raise an eyebrow. "Weren't you a pirate a couple of years ago? Why are you a member of Wu?"

"I had a fallin' out with Huang Zu, so I joined up with Wu after!" Gan Ning looks you over. "Is it true that ya killed Lu Bu?"

"I did, but I don't want to talk about it with Diao right here."

"Oh." He bows. "My apologies, Diaochan. We'll talk more at dinner, eh?"

"Sure, Ning."

He nods before walking off. You and Diaochan get out and meet up with Yinping, who stood patiently. "Lei! What happened?"

"I showed Sun Jian the Mark and gave him the letter, expecting that to be the end. What I didn't expect was for him to be sad one instance before doing a 180, stating that he wanted to meet us at the castle in an hour for dinner. All of us."

"Are we going?" Yinping asks.

"I'm tempted not to. I may not be good at reading behavior, but no person should be this bipolar," you say.

"We don't have to go, Yuan. You've done your job. Let's head back to Shu." Diaochan advises.

You agree and prepare to leave, but Lianshi notices you all. "Lord Yuan! The dinner is starting, come on!"

"Damn. I guess we're going after all." You then whisper to them, "Be prepared for anything."

Lianshi escorts you all back to the palace, arriving at a large dinner table, Sun Jian at the head. He motions for everyone to take a seat, Diaochan on your right, Yinping on your left.

When you all get settled, Sun Jian immediately starts asking questions. "So, Yuan. How long have you been a Mercenary for?"

You couldn't even get rice in your mouth before he asked you a question you didn't want to answer. "Six years, but I didn't start getting work consistently until three years ago. My sword's an Odachi, a type of Katana from Japan. A family who left China gave it to me as a parting gift." Gathering another spoonful of rice, you quickly gulp it down.

"Well, that answers my second question." Sun Jian then asks, "Is it true that you were a Yellow Turban Rebel?"

The Wu officers snap their heads to you. So that's what this is about. You put down your chopsticks and stare at Sun Jian evidently in annoyance, so much that your group prep for an inevitable conflict.

"I was, for two battles. Then Han forces overthrew them, and everyone was forced to scatter. Some stayed and joined the Han forces, others left China altogether. The rest were killed or became Nomads."

"Like you?"

"Yeah, like me. If this is heading towards an offer to join Wu, then get set for disappointment. I, as well as Diao or Yin, will not join Wu for as long as we draw breath. Any other stupid questions you plan on asking me?"

To think that silence can get even quieter before Sun Jian slowly rises out of his chair. "Why shouldn't I kill you and your little family?"

And there it is. You look at Diaochan, and she nods.

"Why shouldn't you? Or why can't you? I didn't tell you when Zhou Yu gave you the letter. But Lady Sun gave me permission to kill anyone who gets in the way of the deliverance of her message. And since I'm still here, that rule is still in effect. You lay a hand on either Diaochan or Yinping, no one will survive. I'll decimate them all, and Wu will be red with the blood of the Sun family. Your move, Sun Jian."

Sun Jian looks red hot with anger. But before he can vent it on you speaking verbal nonsense, a footsoldier ran up out of breath. "Lord Sun! Shu officers are attacking the townspeople!"

"What!?"

"Sun Jian, stay right there." You turn to Yinping. "Come on, Yin."

"Right!" She says as she grabbed her Mace.

You extend your hand. "Diao, Sky Piercer."

She tosses you Sky Piercer, and you hand her your Odachi. "Take care of it while I'm gone."

"I will, milord."

You kiss her forehead before you and Yin head out of the palace and book it for the town. Arriving in town, you see a few men in green uniforms attacking civilians. Yinping runs up and smacks all but one of the soldiers, knocking them out instantly. That was a reminder of her Guan strength. You walk up to the last guy, and you don't believe it.

Zhou Ang.

"If it isn't Zhao Ang. Didn't know you defected for Shu."

Zhao Ang, who upon seeing immediately becomes terrified as you unsheathe Sky Piercer and point the tip of the blade at his throat.

He gulps nervously. "Y-yes Yuan! I've been there for a month now-"

"Bullshit. I was there for the past three weeks and would've noticed your scrawny ass. Now, who in Wei sent you?"

"N-no one! I am of Shu! I swear it!"

"Oh, really? We'll see soon enough." *Whistle*

You whistle for Yinping, and she walks over to you, the blade still at Ang's throat. "Who is this?"

Taking a look at Yinping, Ang glances back at you, feigning ignorance. "How are you a member of Shu and don't recognize Guan Yu's daughter?"

Ang looked like he saw a ghost!

"Busted." You say as you close the gap between Ang and yourself. "If you don't answer truthfully, you will receive a wound each time and will continue to do so until you either die or tell me what I want to know. Now then, who from Wei sent you to terrorize the townsfolk in Shu's name?"

Ang was too scared to talk, your patience beginning to wear thin. "TALK!"

"It was Yi! Yi sent my group and me to Wu weekly with Shu disguises to try and spark a war between Wu and Shu. When the conflict began, she would convince Lord Cao Cao to side with Wu to destroy Shu!"

Interesting, but you knew there was more to this. "Is that all?"

"She also hired the hit on Zhang Fei! She had Wei soldiers masquerade as Shu officers and had them kill him after one of Shu's grand feasts!"

"And who are the assassins?" you ask before bringing the blade closer to his throat.

"Fan Jiang and Zhang Da!"

You mercifully let him go. "Thanks." Not a moment too soon, you slam Sky Piercer's hilt against Ang's head so hard, he's rendered unconscious. "Yin, go get Sun Jian and tell him everything we just heard."

She nods. "Right away."

You have a feeling this is going to end up with you going to Wei to confront Wang Yi about this. You can already feel the headaches ahead of time. Anyway, Yin returns with Sun Jian as well as Diaochan, Zhou Yu, and Lianshi.

"And that's everything, Lord Sun."

Sun Jian nods before his eyes lock onto the instigator of this attack. "Yuan, is this Zhao Ang?"

"Yes. I first met him in Wei around a year ago after my first battle with Lu Bu. He was causing a scene at a restaurant, and I was hired to stop it. Paid well for that job, I may add. Got a house for free on top of it and free food."

Your group looks at you in awe.

"It seems that I owe Liu Bei and Shu a grand apology for this." Sun Jian balls his fists. "Wei will pay for what they've done."

"I don't think Cao Cao knows about this. Wang Yi has a one-track mind. Everything she does is derivative of one goal. Kill Ma Chao. Her acts, as a result, don't always reach Cao Cao. He told me this himself."

"That's what she's after? Stealing territory does not warrant revenge. I can tell she's no strategist."

You sigh and sheathe Sky Piercer before scratching your head with a yawn.

"My Lord. Are you tired?" Diaochan asks with concern.

"Alas, Diao. It's been a long day," you admit. "Your Redness, would you be so kind as to point us to the nearest inn?"

"Oh, stop! You'll stay with us tonight. Besides, I have a letter to write, and since you're heading back to Shu, I should start writing ASAP. It might take a day, but until then, you are all welcomed in the Wu palace." Sun Jian states. "Lianshi will show you to your quarters."

She nods but held back a sigh. "Right this way."

Lianshi leads you all to your separate bedrooms, Yinping having her own while you shared one with Diaochan. You take off your shoes and massage your feet. All this walking in one of Wu's town was strangely rough on your feet.

"Lord Yuan, are your feet hurting?"

"Yes, but it's nothing worth worrying about," you dismiss the pain. "My feet always hurt from traveling kingdom to kingdom. Believe when I say it used to hurt a lot more when I first started. Now let's go to bed. I can't speak for you, but I'm drained."

All three of you get comfortable in bed. "G'night, Diao."

"Goodnight, Lord Yuan."

Next Day:

The next day you wake up and get dressed without waking Diaochan. She must've been tired too. You sling the Odachi on your back once again and grab Sky Piercer before heading out. Upon leaving your room, you see someone was waiting for you.

Lianshi.

"Yuan," she calls out to you.

"Lianshi." You eye her warily. "Is there a problem?"

"No, not at all." She closes the distance but keeps it respectable. "I came here to apologize for thinking you were going to oppose Wu."

"It was nothing. After telling me everything yesterday, I came to understand your point. But I stay true to my alignment. I won't be attacking Wu or any other kingdom unless it's on a battlefield where I'm paid. So long as Sun Jian or whoever is running Wu accepts my neutrality, I think we can all get along."

Lianshi nods. "Good to hear. How is Lady Sun? Is Lord Liu Bei treating her well?"

"She's delighted with his Greenness," you disclose. "Why else would she send me to give Sun Jian a letter telling him that her love for Liu Bei is actually genuine?"

"I see. When you go back, tell Lady Sun I miss her and wish nothing but the best for them," Lianshi requests.

"I will," you accept before turning around to walk back to Wu's blacksmith. "Have a nice afternoon, Lianshi."

You didn't reach five steps before feeling Lianshi pull on your arm while kissing your cheek, a deep blush covering the entirety of her face. "You too, Yuan. I hope we see other again under better circumstances."

Lianshi then left you to complete whatever tasks needing her attention. You held your cheek, surprised by that sudden action. Not once did you peg her as affectionate, but you didn't complain. She was strikingly beautiful. You wave at her as you leave and quickly find yourself at the blacksmith's shop.

He lights up. "How may I help you, Sand Dragon?"

"Someone's happy to see me."

"I'm just happy someone stopped by. No one else has come here all day." He leans forward. "What can I do for you?"

You take Sky Piercer out of its sheath. "Can you tell me the details of this Changdao?"

This was your very first Changdao. During your short time with the Yellow Turbans, you used a Jian in the armory. And while your mother taught you how to use one, you never had time to refine your skill because you never owned one. Hopefully, this blacksmith had the info you were seeking.

"Changdaos are generally used by frontline soldiers as the first line of defense in the way of a spearhead. It's also particularly useful for slaying cavalry. But what makes this Changdao special is the type of steel used to form its blade."

"What kind of steel?"

"That I don't know, but from what I can tell, it's been alloyed, hence the black color. Whoever crafted this Changdao deserves an award. Sorry, but that's all I know."

"It's fine. I appreciate what you did tell me. Just makes the journey back to Shu more purposeful," you say before taking Sky Piercer back and go on your way.

After exiting, you see Diachan up and about. When she sees you, she runs up and hugs you, adding a peck on the lips. "Good afternoon, Lord Yuan."

"Good afternoon, Diao. Sleep well?"

"Yes. I didn't realize how tired we were until we fell asleep last night. I didn't believe the guards when he told me that it was past noon."

"It was pretty late in the morning when I awoke. Now we just wait for Yin to wake, and we can be on our way," you say.

"Not yet, Yuan," Lianshi replies as she approaches. "You must wait for Lord Sun to finish his letter for Lady Sun before departing back to Shu."

"What should we do in the meantime?"

"Spend time with your wife!" Diaochan answers for you. "Come, we have much to discuss!"

"We do?" you ask.

Diaochan drags you to who knows where but not before you cast a glance at Lianshi as she gives a playful wink. You still remember what took place between you two a few minutes ago, that kiss lingering on your face.

When she stops moving, you find yourself near a lake, a pair of chairs underneath the lone tree facing the body of water.

"Here we are! I asked Daqiao for a place where no one will interrupt us. Please, milord. Have a seat."

You did what she asks, and Diaochan sits on the opposite chair. The view afforded to you is a beautiful sight. Lady Daqiao certainly knows how to pick her spots. When you look back at Diaochan, you find her staring longingly at you.

"Something on your mind?"

She playfully crosses her arms. "Care to explain Lianshi kissing your cheek?"

Your eyes widen. "You saw that?"

"I just happened to see it while looking for you. It's obvious to me Lianshi wants what I have, and that's you."

Oh boy. "Listen, Diao. It isn't what you think it is. I only have eyes for you and no one else. I promise you."

Diaochan nods. "Ok, I believe you. Lianshi did have some nerve putting her hands on you, letting alone giving you that kiss."

"Yes, I know," you admit, though you secretly liked it.

"Anyway, I was just thinking about how much I love you so. In truth, I'm still astonished you forgave me after allowing Lu Bu to constantly fight you in the past. Your compassion is really heartwarming."

"Diao..."

She was breaking down at this point. You get up and embrace her. "I'm sorry, milord. For all that I've done..."

"You haven't let it go?" You gently stroke her hair. "I forgave you because it's what Lu Bu wanted. I can't be mad at you for wanting to make him happy. Even if it did end in a gruesome way."

Diaochan sniffs. "I'm a mess. Thank you for taking me when you did. You've made me happy beyond comprehension."

"No thanks are necessary, Diao. It's because of you that I'm alive, so any debt you think you owe has been paid in my eyes."

You two stare into each other's eyes before sharing a passionate kiss that went unrivaled than any you previously shared. In between kisses, you can feel her smile return. You both part, and despite her puffy eyes, you take in Diaochan's natural beauty and aura.

"Diao, I love you."

"*Sniff*. I love you too. It probably sounds redundant to you, but I want to make it as clear-"

"It is, Diao. I know. So stop worrying about it." You kiss her forehead, causing her to melt in your arms.

Alas, this moment couldn't last long as Daqiao calls for you both. "Lord Sun Jian has finished the letter! Come pick it up, and you can be on your way!"

You break off your hug with Diaochan, your hands entwined as you head back to the palace. When you arrive, Yinping is awake. "Pleasant day, isn't it?"

"I've had worse days, Yin. I'm surprised to see you up and about after sleeping so much."

"So was I." She hands you an envelope. "Here's the letter from Sun Jian. He said to give it to his Lady Sun exclusively."

You take the message and put it in your bag. "Well, we'd best be on our way then."

Much quicker than you expected, you were out of Wu's border. However, you couldn't help but ponder Lianshi during the trek. She seemed pretty sad when you and the others left. Perhaps she wanted to throw all caution to the wind and tag along. You're not sure how Diaochan would take that, considering Lianshi's attitude towards you after stepping foot in Wu. Oh, well. Maybe next time you see her, you'll get an explanation.

On the way, you stopped in a small town and had the group stay the night at an inn and arrive back home by tomorrow afternoon. With it being late, you would generally head to bed but don't feel tired just yet. You found yourself outside, both Diaochan and Yinping asleep. The winds were harsh tonight, reminding you of home.

"Lost in thought eh, Yuan?" A strange voice asks you.

You look around, but you can't find who said that. "Behind you."

Turning around, you see the estranged odd Zuo Ci. You nearly jump back from being startled so. "Zuo Ci!? You scared the crap out of me! You couldn't have conversed with me under normal means!?"

"I could have, but everyone would be asking me so many questions! None of which I would like to answer! Ho ho ho!" Zuo Ci laughs heartily, and after calming himself down begins talking again. "I see that the Phoenix Tea has worked its magic. You look good as new!"

"Yes, I should thank you for that. You saved my life that day."

"Not really. If the Phoenix Tea worked, that means you would have survived. The tea only accelerates one's recovery. What would be a few months turned into a couple of weeks." He informs you before twiddling his fu man chu. "But back to why I'm here. It concerns your thoughts on Yinping."

"How did you-"

"I have eyes everywhere, Yuan. But do you wish to know the reason why?"

"I do, but shouldn't she tell me this herself?"

"She won't for the sake of your relationship with Diaochan. I fear your partnership with Yinping may be cut short."

Your eyes widen to their fullest possible extent. "What!? Why!?"

"From what I've been told, Liu Shan may have grown a backbone. If that is true, then Guan Yu, for her safety, may end the partnership and have Liu Shan have her be his second wife."

"And because I have no political standing, I won't be able to do anything to stop it..." You sadly realize.

Zuo Ci lays a hand on your shoulder. "My deepest apologies, Yuan. I must be going now. The next time we meet will, hopefully, be happier. Farewell!"

And with the winds growing harsher, Zuo Ci vanishes from your sight. You couldn't believe it. Yinping may be leaving you and Diaochan tomorrow. If it were anyone else, you wouldn't believe it, but this is Zuo Ci we're talking about. He may be crazy but knows what he's talking about. How will she react to the news?

You're going figure out a lot sooner than you think.

"Partner?"

Oh, no. It's Yinping.

"Yin, how much did you-"

"Everything," she interrupts. Yinping then runs and hugs you intensely, tears flowing like a stream. "I don't want to leave you for Shan! I want to stay!"

"I don't want you to leave either. But because of my profession, I can't say anything to change your father's mind. There's nothing I can do."

"What if *sniff* what if you joined Shu? Then I won't have to leave you."

You caress her hair. "You know I can't do that, not after what happened with the Yellow Turbans. If I joined Shu, it would go against everything I stand for. Plus, Diao would never join another kingdom because of Dong Zhuo. We won't belong."

She looks at you with even more profound sadness than before, but she knows it's true. "I know you're right, but I can't believe Dad would do this."

"Your father values your safety more so than your happiness as an actual father should. Since Shan can keep you safe, staying with Diao and I became twice as dangerous. I'm sorry, Yin. I failed you."

"No," Yinping disagrees. "Even though our time as a team was short, I've never been happier. Just promise me one thing."

"Anything."

She pulls you closer. "Make Diaochan the happiest woman in China. For me?"

You nod without hesitation, tears falling from your eyes. "I will, Yin. I will."

She wipes them off of your face. *Sniff* "I'm going to miss you."

"Just Yuan will do, Yinping."

You hug one more time, not wanting to let go of her. However, it's cold outside, and you have to eventually get some rest for rest. You two head back inside and fall asleep, cradling poor Diaochan as her face had tear lines as well.

The journey to Shu was quiet, almost morbid as reality began setting in. You all see Liu Bei, Shangxiang, Cang, Zhang Bao, Xingcai, Guan Yu, Xiahou Ji, and Liu Shan. And if Shan's there, Zuo Ci's prediction is correct. You and Diaochan already begin fighting tears because this is the last day of your union with Yinping. You all catch up to the others. Despite the eventual bad news, they were all happy to see you all.

"Brother Yuan!" Zhang Bao was the first to greet you. "You're still alive! I hope Wu wasn't harsh on you."

"Not at all. In fact, I got some info on Zhang Fei's murder while we were there."

"Really? Mother will be ecstatic!"

"Ah, some good news for today."

You weren't glad to hear that. "What? Liu Bei, what happened while we were gone?"

His look was forlorn. "Jin attacked us out of nowhere. We fended them off... but Zhuge Liang is no longer among us."

"My deepest apologies, Your Greenness."

"This, unfortunately, leaves poor Yueying a widow. But on the topic of your job, did you give Sun Jian the letter?"

"I did. Lady Sun," you address her while taking the message out of your bag before handing it to her. "A letter from his Redness."

You say as you hand the letter over to Shangxiang. "Thank you very much, Yuan. Here's your payment. 50,000 gold and the Mark of Wu. That way, you can safely take jobs over there again."

Respectfully, you bow. "Thank you, Lady Sun. So, Liu Bei, why is your son among us?"

Liu Bei looked uppity when you asked him that he looks at Guan Yu, who takes a deep breath. "By some miracle of the Gods themselves, Liu Shan has improved dramatically on his combat skills and his mental fortitude. Thanks to the advice you gave to Bao, the two spar regularly. With this in mind, we decided to allow Liu Shan to wed Yinping. Deep apologies, Yuan, Diaochan, but this is for her safety."

You take a deep breath and open your mouth to speak, but Yinping does so first. "We know, Dad. Zuo Ci visited us last night to tell us. We braced for this moment since this morning. Yuan, Diao, thank you for everything. I enjoyed our short time together."

"So did we, Yin. We wish you the best in your future," Diaochan interjects.

"Green Jr., treat her well. She's a wonderful woman, and if you don't, an angry Guan Yu will be the least of your problems. Understood?" you tell him.

Shan jumps a tiny bit. Wow, he really did improve. "No worries, Yuan. I will treat her like the woman she's destined to be." He goes to shake your hand. I won't let you down."

The two of you shake hands. You then turn to your wife. "Well, Diao. Let's head to the inn and settle in."

"Are you sure you don't want to stay at the palace?" Liu Bei offers.

"I'm sure. Bao, tell your mother to meet me at my usual spot in half an hour. I'll tell her what I know there."

He salutes. "Yes, Brother Yuan!"

"Brother Yuan, do you need help settling in at the inn?" Cai asks. "I would love to come help."

"It's appreciated, but we'll be fine," you respectfully decline. "Come, Diao."

"Yes, milord."

You both bow and wave goodbye as you both head to the inn. When you arrive and settle in, you get ready to head to your food spot. "I'll be back soon, ok? Take care while I'm gone."

She nods. "I will, beloved. Maybe when I get properly settled, I'll go looking for jobs for us."

"Really?" You smile. "Good to see you getting adjusted to your new life. I appreciate it."

"Of course, now that Yin is gone-"

Your smile quickly turns into a frown. "Yeah, we got to work harder now..."

"Right. I'll see you later, sweetheart."

You peck on the lips and exit the inn. The entire day passed by unnoticed. Probably because a lot has been on your mind. Yin leaving, Lianshi showing you a different side of her, and everything else in-between.

You show up to your spot and take a seat. "Chef! Order up for three! We're expecting company!"

"You got it, Boss!"

"Say, why do you call me that?"

"I don't know. It just fits, y'know? I feel like callin' you by your name doesn't feel right. So I call you Boss instead."

You shrug. "Do what you want, Chef."

"Cool, Boss. Order for three comin' right up!" the Chef says as he gets to work.

You miss the smell of the place. All honesty, you miss the smell of food that wasn't made by an army cook as good as Wu's food was. Eventually, Bao and his mother, Xiahou Ji, enter.

"Are you Yuan Lei?" she inquires.

"Yes, I am, Lady Xiahou." You stand up and bow. "It's a pleasure."

"Please, call me Ji. My son says you have information regarding my husband's murder?"

You nod. "On top of why Wu broke the marriage terms, but that would be fixed with Sun Jian's message."

"Alright, Brother Yuan! Always goin' above and beyond!"

You couldn't help but shrug. "I try, Bao. But when we were in Wu, Wei soldiers disguised as Shu officers arrived at one of the towns and terrorized the townsfolk. After interrogating the head honcho, I found out who assassinated Zhang Fei."

"I can't believe Wei would do this. I'm ashamed to say that I used to live there until Lord Fei took me here," Ji says as her expression turns serious. "Who did it?"

"Here you go, Boss!"

"Thanks." You gesture for them to sit before handing each a bowl. "Here, on me."

You say as you hand Ji and Bao the food. They both take a bite. "You have good taste, Yuan," Ji remarks. "This is really good."

"I told you, Ma! Brother Yuan knows his spots."

"Thank you, Ji. The men who murdered your Husband were Fan Jiang and Zhang Da."

Ji sadly nods. "I see. They were acting suspiciously lately. I will tell Lord Liu Bei at once. Can we take this to go?"

"Chef?"

He shakes his head. "Don't worry 'bout it, Milady. Enjoy the food!"

"Thank you very much." She turns to you. "And thank you, Yuan. You've made this time of grieving easier to manage."

"No problem, Ji."

"How much do I owe you?"

You wave your hand. "This info is on the house. I promised your son that I'll look into it for free before I left."

"That won't do. You've done my family a great service, and you should be rewarded," Ji says before practically shoving the gold in your pocket. "Here, 5500 gold for your troubles. Please, take it."

Not wanting to be rude, you accept her payment.

"Thanks again, Yuan."

"See ya later, Brother Yuan!" Bao says as he and his mother depart to head home.

"Have a nice evening, you two."

At that moment, the Chef comes back with your bowl. "Here ya go, Boss."

"Thanks, Chef." You take a huge whiff of the food. "Smells delicious."

While you enjoy the food, your Uncle Cang stops by. You notice him walk in and decide it's time to see what has gone on since your last meeting. "Where have you been all this time, Uncle?"

He sits by you. "I fled to Mexico with a couple of others. Some of the Han forces were persistent enough to head to Japan, so we sailed around the country before stopping at Chiba for additional supplies. We then realized we were tanned enough to pass for the townsfolk there, so we volunteered in the army for a few years. While the others decided to stay, I returned back to China to wander for a while until I landed my gig at Shu," he recalls.

"That explains your attire. You definitely don't look like you're from China, but I can't talk."

"You can't, Nephew, with your choice of clothing and skin tone. Hell, you're darker than the folk in Mexico," Uncle Cang points out.

"The Silk Road is a very sunny place, Uncle, more so than Mexico. But to think that some of the Yellow Turbans fled all the way to the New World."

"Truly a bold decision, but we avoided capture, that's all that matters. What of you, Nephew? It's been nine years since I last saw you. I heard from Master Guan Yu that you killed Lu Bu and Dong Zhuo. Is that really true?"

You tell him that what Guan Yu told him wasn't the complete truth.

"Really? Then what really happened?"

"Lu Bu was the one who killed Dong Zhuo. Diao and I killed his soldiers, and after all that, Lu Bu attacked me. He died from the wounds I gave him as a result, and if it weren't for Shu and Zuo Ci, I would've died myself."

"Wow! My own nephew killing Lu Bu and having a hand in Dong Zhuo's demise. Jiao would be proud to hear that."

"I hope so. I miss him, even if he was..."

"Eccentric?"

"I was going to say insane, but that works too."

You both laugh at the remark. Cang then says, "So, is Ms. Diaochan the one?"

"I promised Lu Bu and her that she'll be protected for as long as I live. So, yes. Diaochan is the one."

"So she had a hand in making sure you survived..." he muses. "I should thank her the next time we speak."

"Uncle, you're embarrassing me," you say shyly.

"Hey, that's what I'm here for. But in all seriousness, I appreciate that she's here for you, Yuan. I know from first hand that mercenary living can be pretty lonely when doing it by yourself."

You nod. "At times, it does. No one to bother you, the serene feeling. But unless you play your cards right, Mercenary life can earn you more enemies than friends. But I'm fortunate since my parents are still alive, and I have a wife who cares for me."

A massive mouthful of White Rice goes into your orifice as you enjoy dinner and continue talking to Uncle Cang. Afterward, you head toward the inn where Diaochan patiently awaits your company. As you open the door to your room, she embraces you for a passionate kiss.

You break away. "Now that's a welcome home."

"That was nothing compared to what I'm about to do to you," Diaochan says before things got really hot.

Warning! Lemon Incoming! If you want to ignore it, keep scrolling until you see the All Clear! Otherwise, Happy Reading!

After locking the door, Diaochan was back on you in a hurry, and you struggled against her in a game of tonsil hockey. Her aggression was quite impressive this round, but your tongue held it's own.

You two fall down on the bed with her straddling you. Diaochan seductively lets the top of her dress drop off her bare shoulders to reveal her naked torso. She takes your head after sharing another fiery kiss to shove it into her breasts. You suck hard on each tit while pinching the other nipple with your right hand, your free hand hugging her tightly. Her moans of pleasure are signs that she's enjoying herself.

Diaochan takes your face away from her breasts, cups it, and leans in for another passionate kiss. You two can't bring yourselves to stop for air due to how good this feels. You finally separate long enough to just stare into each other's eyes, her hazel eyes mesmerizing. She pushes you down to continue the make-out session.

She breaks away. "Let me get those clothes off you, Yuan."

Standing you and herself up, Diaochan gives you a quick peck before taking your robes off. She took a second to admire your torso, every battle scar there for her to observe and appreciate. "Glad to see that my husband keeps himself in shape."

"Thank you." You massage her waist. "You're looking pretty beautiful yourself."

"Stop, honey. You're making me blush." She kisses you again. "Let's have some fun."

Yanking your pants down, Diaochan drools after revealing your member. She softly begins stroking the shaft while you help her out of her clothes, all of them landing in a puddle around her feet.

She resumes stroking of your cock, throwing in an occasional lick to the head. Soon enough, she was only using her mouth exclusively, sucking with vigor and passion with a deep throat once in a while. Whenever she let your cock go, Diaochan strokes the tip before inhaling it back in her mouth. You cup her cheeks and start to face fuck her. The feeling was fantastic, but you had something better in mind.

Fully aroused, you stand your wife up and turn her around to fondle her orbs as you softly blow in her ear, the action causing her to shake erotically.

"You certainly know how to make a woman feel wanted, Yuan," Diaochan coos before craning her neck to coax another kiss from you. "Now, ravish me. Defile your lover."

Who are you to say no?

While still standing, you aim your throbbing dick at her pulsating heat and slowly insert it inside her walls, stroking slowly and rhythmically. Diaochan's moans became music to your ears as you gradually increase the pace. Her screams of euphoria are coated in the bedsheets as you move her body onto the bed. However, you still find the motivation to keep fucking her daylights out.

You exit and turn her around, nothing but adrenaline and lust motivating you both. You share another longing kiss as you start screwing Diaochan in missionary. The entire time, you stare lovingly into each other's eyes. There's nothing but love in hers and yours too. This moment seems too good to be true. However, you wouldn't dare stop for fear of a bad dream. If this was real, you'd enjoy it until the end of time.

Momentarily, you slow down and kiss Diaochan with every fiber of your being, letting her know all the emotions you felt for her. You feel her arms and hands on your bare back as if they were soothing your stress. She caresses your face, and her next words solidify her place as your only lover.

"I am yours, Yuan. From now, until we part. Finish pleasuring me," Diaochan pleads of you.

"Yes, my beloved. At once," you say, comparable to an obedient slave.

Exiting her for the last time tonight, you lie down, Diaochan crawling on top to stick your phallus back inside her warm depths as she rides you. Her hands plant themselves on your chest as she moves bobs up and down with increasing intensity. Without warning, she slams her pelvis one last time before holding herself, breathes exhaled rapidly while regulating herself. Back on your torso, her hands stay there before you sit up and pin her arms before coming together in a lustful kiss, keeping the pace consistent.

"Diao... It's time." You groan loudly. "I can't hold it... much longer." A few more strokes before you're ready to explode.

Your lover wasn't too far behind you. "Oh, my Gods, Yuan! I'm cumming! AHHHH!"

Unable to withstand the incredible amount of ecstasy, your climaxes occur and mix together in Diaochan's womb, the pleasure driving her out of her right mind. Both of you shiver as you ride out the mind-blowing orgasms you were happy to share with one another, taking the time to continue moving her body up and down your pole. Her tired but satisfied moans were all you needed to hear that she enjoyed this passionate night.

All Clear! Now get back to reading, Killjoy.

"Come, lover. We have to clean up." Diaochan lifts you out of bed and leads you to the showers, staying inside for nearly half an hour. After cleaning up, you both get into bed to retire for the night.

You look at her expectantly. "Any chance you might be pregnant."

She regards you for a moment. "The best way to tell will be to visit the doctors in the morning." Diaochan then rubs her stomach. "What happens if I am carrying your child?"

"I will care for you in your time of need like I promised you. It matters not if it's a boy or girl. I'll love that child unconditionally."

With the brightest smile she's ever given you, Diaochan kisses you one last time. "I'm glad to hear you say that, Yuan. Sweet dreams."

Diaochan lays her head on your chest and is instantly asleep. You stare at her peaceful expression and smile, knowing that while the journey to get here was not perfect whatsoever, you wouldn't trade it for anything as long as she was by your side.

Before going to sleep yourself, you softly kiss her forehead. "Goodnight, Diao. My loving partner."

A/N: And that's all she wrote for this story. I don't have anymore chapters to redo so it ends here, luckily alwaysdoubted edited and formatted it so it held some finality. At this point I don't plan on updating this story. However, I am open to giving to someone else if they want. But I digress. How'd you like the quick resurgence of my first take on the Through the Eyes of Series? Let me know with a Review or a PM, and while you're at it check out my (and alwaysdoubted's) profile page and check out our stories. For me I suggest, Gone but Not Forgotten as that is my current project. Check the second story of this subseries, Through the Eyes of a Muscian which is my side project. As for alwaysdoubted, anything of his will do. With that being said I should get back to writing the last couple of chapters of Arc III. See you all soon.