Chapter Text
“I’m baaack.” Yunli bellowed as she returned to the inn. Her grandpa was chopping fruit. Looks like he was getting his breakfast started.
“How was night life?” He asked, focusing on his apple slices.
“It was alright.” She said in passing.
“Is that so? Want any breakfast?”
“No thanks. I’m gonna go to my room. Rest for a bet.”
Huaiyan turned his gaze towards the girl as she slowly took her time with the stairs. Even from where he was, he could see how red her ears were. “Yunli?” He said calmly, watching the girl freeze for a second before turning around.
“Yes, grandpa?” Yunli blinked twice. She was typically cool under pressure but she wasn’t sure what kind of face she was making.
The wise general could see the slight flush in her cheeks and the way her eyes needed a break from direct contact before engaging and. A novice could put together what she’s most likely been up to. While there were a million things he could say to her, Huaiyan chose to smile and say what mattered in the moment.
“Love, it looks good on you.”
His words took her by surprise and caused the corner of her lips to turn up despite how much she fought it. Yunli bowed in gratitude before continuing to her room.
“Hehe, oh to be young.” Huaiyan continued to make his breakfast.
Upstairs, Yunli plopped face down onto her bed. The scent of fresh linens was refreshing yet not as calming to her. It felt almost odd that they didn’t smell like him. Her blush deepened. She missed those sheets. Right now they were being washed, erasing any evidence of her interest in him. With any luck, that includes the unavoidable bloodstain too.
“I should’ve told him to burn the sheets. I would’ve bought him new ones.” Yunli wrestled with the idea of Yanqing still sleeping with those sheets. On one hand, that’s perfectly normal. On the other, that’s now a permanent reminder! He’d probably go to sleep reminded of her. Actually…that didn’t sound terrible.
“Uuugh!” Yunli groaned into her pillow. “Stop thinking useless things!” A seemingly impossible task considering her hips were sore. The moment they were both in perfect condition, Yunli was going to make him pay! After the War Dance of course. Most of her interest in it had faded after everything that’s happened. Even so, Yunli was aware that unlike her, Yanqing had to enter and was very much looking forward to it.
“That idiot.” She mumbled, finally shutting her eyes. “He better not lose.”
xxxxxxxx
Two days went by, and the War Dance began in no time at all. Well, for some anyway. Many visitors thought the wait took forever, while people like her and fellow knights still had Hoolay fresh in their minds. As she walked through the crowds to find a seat, she had to admit it felt weird to be here as a spectator. If another attack happened right now, she wouldn’t be surprised at all.
“MISS YUNLI!” A familiar voice cried out.
She turned to her right to see her darling disciple, March, waving frantically.
“Over here! I have a seat for you!”
“Thanks!” Yunli leapt over and landed right on her seat. It was good to have fully functioning legs again. “With the way you yelled, I thought you were in danger.”
“Hehe, nah! Only getting your attention. It’s nice to see you, but I thought you’d be participating?”
“Oh really?” Yunli put her hands on her hips. “I could be saying the same about you.” Yunli watched the girl’s face go pale as she rubbed the back of her head while laughing awkwardly.
“Haha, weeeeellll I was gonna, but I’m honestly still really exhausted from everything. How could I debut proudly in dedication of my masters, only to immediately get knocked out!? No way. That would be too embarrassing!”
“Nice story. Although I guess I’m not one to talk. Between the prize sword being switched and everything else, I care less about this tournament than I already did. Also, I’m pretty sure Lingsha would prefer I’d rest!” Yunli nodded confidently.
“Oh? So now you use my medical advice?”
March and Yunli turn around to see the healer in question smirking at them as she walks over.
“If it didn’t suit your interest, you’d be running headfirst into a fight right now.” She said to Yunli.
“Untrue! I’d have a plan at the very least. Either way, at least I’m resting; unlike some other dimwit who was hurt worse.”
“Do you think his shoulder is better?” March asked, remembering his match with Feixiao.
Lingsha nodded. “Not to worry. He stopped by a couple days ago for some guidance and ointment. Yanqing should be feeling like his old self again. Although…” Lingsha couldn’t help but look at Yunli.
“Wh-what? I haven’t picked any fights with him. Haven’t even seen him in a couple days.” Aside from a few texts, Yunli was honestly pretty wiped the last few days.
Lingsha smiled. “Oh I believe you. I’m only looking at you because I can’t help but notice how lovely your hair smells.”
Yunli was about to make nothing of the compliment, until she remembered how extraordinary Lingsha’s sense of smell was and the last time she washed her hair. Yunli casually faced forward. “Thank you.”
“Hehe, you’re welcome.” Lingsha teased, playing along with Yunli. No need to cause a scene or bring up what she already knows. Yanqing had a similar reaction whenever she brought up his subtle change in scent. She’ll be sure to discuss proper safety practices in a more private setting.
The crowd roared with excitement as the Ringmaster took to the battlefield, awaiting his opponent. He seemed as calm as ever. Even as his opponent approached with a glorious spear.
“Wooooo! Go! Yanqing!” March cheered. “C’mon Yunli! Show some festive spirit!”
“No thanks. You have more than enough for the both of us.”
“Aw don’t be like that! I get that the two of you have your differences and bicker a lot, but I know he’d definitely cheer for you!”
March watched the girl pout and turn her head as she crossed her arms. Looks like the girl was stuck in her ways. Oh well. March cuffed her hands around her mouth and continued her cheers. “G-”
“KICK HIS BUTT, YANQING!” Yunli shouted, her face burning red. The boy’s head perked up and immediately looked in her direction, causing more embarrassment as he smiled and waved. “P-PAY ATTENTION!”
Thankfully, Yanqing went back to focusing. Yunli took a breath. “I swear, he’s so dumb at times.” She said with a smile. Her eyes glanced over to her right to see March wide eyed in utter shock. Yunli looked in the opposite direction. Facing Lingsha was much easier. “What? You wanted me to cheer.”
Now March admittedly didn’t know much about having a rival, but she was a master of knowing a fellow maiden’s heart. Only a blind man could miss that exchange of smiles. Combine that with their other recent behaviors and an interesting picture could be painted.
“Wait, are you two-”
“March, I still have the right to make you train rigorously! Do you wanna run laps right now?”
“N-No ma’am!” March faced forward. That reaction was more than enough information for her. Looks like her two masters weren’t as at odds as she thought. She couldn’t express it, but that genuinely made her happy. The both of them had far too many grown up responsibilities. It’s good to act your age, or relative age in this case.
“Oh! The match is starting!”
All eyes were on Yanqing as he took the initiative, leaping over a wide sweeping attack and staying loose as he dodged incoming spear thrusts, gradually making his way inside to limit his foes range of motion.
“Hmm, no flying swords yet. Guess it would make more sense to ruin the advantage of a spear instead of out ranging it. Now the guy can’t defend easily.” March commented.
“Wow. Someone has been taking their training seriously.” A proud woman remarked.
All three of them looked behind them to see Feixiao sitting casually like she'd been there the entire time. The general gave a cheeky grin and pointed back at the arena.
“Never mind me. Let’s watch our young friend strut his stuff.”
Yunli did just that. “It’s not like the winner isn’t obvious. Yanqing is clearly warming up.”
“I did say strut his stuff, didn’t I?”
Yanqing ducked under another swipe that went into an overhead that he quickly sidestepped into a forward slash that made contact with an armored torso. Good, his shoulder was feeling better than ever! Yanqing lunged backwards and sent his swords flying, making them swarm around his opponent!
“I can tell you’ve put countless days into your spearmanship.” He praised, watching the warrior deflect the blades at efficient speeds. Not a movement was wasted. Although he was certain Dan Heng would put the man to shame. “Might as well put my practice to good use.” Yanqing poised himself, taking his with both hands.
Feixiao couldn’t hide her joy. “That’s it. Don’t wait for all your openings. Make them with your own might!”
Near the entrance, at higher spectator seats, Jing Yuan watches his student fight valiantly. He doubted that he could catch every match, but the first and last one should be seen with his own eyes.
“He’s fairing well,” said General Huaiyan, approaching from behind. Looks like Yanqing has made a full recovery from the battle.
“No small part to Ms. Lingsha I’d imagine. That boy, I gave him time off to rest but knowing him, he snuck in training.”
“One can hardly stand still when people like my granddaughter and The Merlin’s Claw are around.”
“Hehe, true enough.” Jing Yuan hasn’t gotten much time with Yanqing after giving him leave, but he could tell that each strike had calm and measured strength. Even from here, Jing Yuan could see the look of joy and freedom in his pupil’s eyes.
“He’s gained a new sense of confidence in himself. You wouldn’t happen to know why that is, would you?”
General Huaiyan stroked his beard as he hid his grin. “Hmmm, I was informed he did a devastating blow against Hoolay, as well as did joint sparring with Yunli against Feixiao several days ago. If that doesn’t breed confidence in a swordsman, I don’t know what will.”
“Such a straightforward answer. As if there’s more under the surface regarding those events.” Jing Yuan smirked.
“I’m too old to be spreading rumors and assumptions, Jing Yuan. I only speak in truths and facts. Regardless, it looks like your apprentice is ready to claim his first win.”
Yanqing went straight into the fray, clashing with the spear head on and sending sparks flying with every parry. With two hands he ensured each strike held power too oppressive to merely shrug off. Again he ducked under a sharp blade that went into an overhead, but this time he was far too close to guarantee a safe dodge.
“I got you!” The warrior cried, certain of his victory as he swung down with all his might.
That’s when a new yet familiar sound rang in people’s ears. The heavy impact of steel hitting the flat of a blade. Yanqing stood firmly rooted, his hands gripping the hilt and arms braced. He blocked it. Yanqing full on blocked the attack and brought it to a dead stop before pushing the spear up off him with all his might. As the warrior recoiled, his body was left completely open. Yanqing pivoted on his front right foot, spinning into a strong horizontal slash. The momentum slammed straight into his foe and sent the warrior flying out of the area. The masses were stunned, all except for General Huaiyan, who let out a hardy laugh from seeing such a familiar move.
“AND THAT’S THE MATCH!” Owlbert yelled, prompting an eruption of cheers.
A quick wider stance followed by a powerful attack thanks to momentum and timing. March had seen that countless times over the weeks, but never from Yanqing. Her, Feixiao, and Lingsha all looked at Yunli to see the girl wide eyed and speechless.
Feixiao couldn’t help but chuckle. “Haha, they say imitation is the greatest form of flattery. Alright everyone. Let's go and congratulate his first win of many.”
xxxxxxx
As far as first matches go, that couldn’t have gone better! Yanqing took a swig of his water bottle as he watched contestants and visitors alike roam. He couldn’t help but think of his new friend he meant not long ago.
“I wonder how Luka is doing?” Yanqing was curious enough to go see the leaderboards, but was immediately side tracked at the sight of his friends walking his way. Water nearly went down the wrong pipe when he realized Feixiao was there too.
“W-Wow. I wasn't expecting all of you to pay me a visit.” He looked at Yunli, her eyes squinting at him only made his smile more smug. “What? Didn’t expect a Loufu Swordmaster to understand Zhuming principles? I’ve only seen you do that move like a hundred times by now.”
“Don’t go getting a full head! I wouldn’t say you understood anything, but that’s nothing new for you. I’ll admit, it caught me by surprise, but your feet weren’t even squared with your shoulders!”
March leaned to Lingsha and Feixiao. “I think we’re interrupting something.”
“I’d say we are right where we need to be.” The general said with a smile.
Yunli crossed her arms and huffed, “You got a long way to go before you can start bragging.”
“Well, it’s not like I’m not willing to learn. If you’re good at it then maybe teach instead of lecturing.”
“Ha! Teach you? I already have enough hard headed people to not listen to me.”
March was appalled! “I listen! Sometimes I just don’t get it…”
“You get more than he does. Sorry Mr. Footwork, but I’ll pass.”
Yunli walked by Yanqing, having nothing left to say. Well, not entirely. Her feet stopped for a moment, still refusing to turn around. “It was pretty annoying for me to blink and see you in a different stance.”
Yanqing smiled, watching Yunli wander off. If he had to guess, she was off to go train.
“Was that her way of complimenting you?” March said dryly. “Honestly, she could stand to be more upfront.”
Lingsha giggled at the remark. “Hehe, that’s simply how Yunli is. Especially when she feels challenged. In a way, that praise was her giving the utmost respect to Yanqing.”
“Ever so, a thumbs up costs nothing.”
Yanqing gave a soft smile as he gave a shrug. “I don’t mind. That’s how Yunli is. Either way, I won’t lose to her.” He said, confidently nodding. However, March seemed unconvinced as she approached with her hand firmly on her chin. Yanqing tilted his head. “Umm, is there something on my face?”
“Are you and Master Yunli together?”
With six words, Yanqing was knocked off guard way more effectively than anything his recent opponent did. “Wh-Whaat…Why would you ask that out of nowhere?” He was certain he was red despite feeling his blood freeze.
“That response answers all I needed.” March leaned back, not pressing further. “Both of you need better poker faces.”
“What are you on about!? You’re just going around assuming stuff!”
“A young lady’s intuition is not to be underestimated!” March stuck her tongue out teasingly before smiling. “Both of you still argue like back alley cats but something about it recently has felt…softer.”
Yanqing stood silently, flustered and unsure of what to say. Last thing he wanted to do was get an earful. Thankfully Lingsha spoke up.
“Now, now, let the young swordsman focus on his matches. It would be embarrassing for this to ruin his momentum.”
“Oops.” March covered her mouth. “Sorry.” Came out muffled through closed fingers.
Feixiao laughed at the girl as she walked over to Yanqing to ruffle his hair. “Keep up the good work; that was a fine match. Also, if you’re so keen on learning multiple styles, feel free to visit the Yaoqing anytime. I have a feeling you’d enjoy our style. I can teach you a few moves personally.”
“Pouching another general’s apprentice are we?” Lingsha raised a brow. “How sly of you.”
“I am a Foxian, and I doubt Jing Yuan would mind, or Huaiyan for that matter. Nothing wrong with well rounded students. I would gladly make time.”
“Anything but actual paperwork, is that right?”
Feixiao completely ignored the correct accusation with a laugh as she walked off. “I’ll be sure to catch your final match. And remember…” she turned around, pointing right at the boy and his student. “A swordsman may live on the battlefield, but their reasons for wielding one are more often than not found away from it. The atmosphere here is pretty festive. Make sure to live in it.”
Yanqing and March understood Feixiao’s words clearly. Maybe it was when they fought Hoolay or the days they spent training. Whatever the case, somewhere along the journey, they realized how precious every step was together. The two of them stood up straight before bowing in respect as Feixiao departed with her lesson.
Lingsha shook her head in disbelief. “And there she goes. Honestly, that lesson must come easy when you call yourself The Lacking General. Her scent is confidence and strength itself.”
“Still, I don’t think she’s wrong.” March smiled. “I like this lesson. In a way, it’s no different than the path of the Trailblaze. Hehe, maybe I should be the one teaching my masters?”
“I’ll consider it, if you enter the ring.”
“Wow! Look at the time! I promised to get some souvenirs for everyone. Catch you later! Good luck on your next match!” March runs off, never looking back.
And then there were two. Suddenly Yanqing felt as if he should be getting ready for his next match. “Well if you excuse me-”
“Hold it, young man.” She stopped him in his tracks, watching his body turn back around to see a face similar to Yunli’s. “You seem worried.”
“I don’t know what you’re about to say.”
“Hehe, relax. Like I said, no need to stress you out on such an important day. I swear, all swordsmen seem to be cut from similar cloth; that goes double for you and Yunli. Yanqing?”
“Ma’am?”
“Do right by her. That doesn’t mean to be perfect, or to even try and get along all the time. No doubt the two of you will make many, many mistakes. Just be real with her. Genuinely. She’s family to me.”
Lingsha’s voice was so soft, and filled with fondness as she spoke of the girl. Yanqing looked her right in the eyes and gave his word.
“I promise.”
“That’s all I could ask for. Also don’t worry, I will kick her butt if she doesn’t do the same.”
“Why do I feel like you’re sometimes scarier than any general I’ve met?”
Lingsha giggled, a smirk growing on her face. “Hehe, well, you’ve met Jaiqou. Never underestimate a healer. We just might surprise you.”
xxxxxx
The day continued as planned. Battle after battle, Yanqing claimed victory. As promised, Yunli returned after a decent run. It was painful to admit that she could use a little more speed in her regimen if she didn’t want Yanqing to run circles around her. Perhaps asking for tips wasn’t the worst idea?
“Maybe I can swallow my pride just a little?” Yunli thought, watching the boys final match against the man named Luka from the very top of the area away from the crowds.
If she were caught then she would easily get yelled at; that is if the person was brave enough to follow her jump off the ship. She doubted that she’d get the opportunity to make that play. All eyes were on the match. Although it wasn’t exactly a test of martial prowess anymore, but one of honor and respect.
The boy had put down his sword and gone hand to hand. Yanli could see the pure bliss in his eyes as he had fun. As she anticipated, Yanqing won. How strange; Yunli would’ve been annoyed by this a few weeks ago. While she still believed he didn’t quite respect his swords, she could hear the joy in each blade more clearly. That alone was worthy of respect. As for the more intimate bond between them, well, wanting him to win was only natural! Yeah! It makes his future losses to her more special!
“He better not get a big head over this. Next time I’ll definitely participate and wipe the floor with him!” Her mind was made up; the resolve was absolute!
Yunli would not be deterred by the boy’s smile on the Jumbotron as he waved. Next time, it’ll be her! Until then he could have this victory. As a matter of fact…
“Hmm, now here’s a thought…” Yunli laughed to herself, scheming as she did it. Without a moment to waste, Yunli left the ship.
xxxxxxx
Today could not have gone any better. Good food, good friends, good fights, and most importantly, victory! Yanqing couldn’t think of a happier moment than right now as he carried his new sword home. Well, there was a couple days ago, but that was more fulfilling rather than a feeling of triumph. Now that he thought about it more, this might be the greatest week of his life!
The boy hummed happily as he turned the final corner to his home. To his surprise, Yunli stood on his front steps with hands on her hips and eyes trained on him.
“…Why are you blocking my door?”
“Isn’t it obvious? Your day isn’t over yet.” Yunli drew her sword. “One final match. A real test of your skills.”
The atmosphere was rather perfect. Orange light bathed the quiet streets as wind blew through the bamboo thickets. A final challenger; the last obstacle on his journey home. It felt straight out of one of his movies.
Yanqing put down the sword case and stood proudly. With air in his lungs and eyes facing forward he confidently said, “No thanks.”
Yanli blinked twice. “Wh-What?” She lowered her sword.
“No thank you. I’m good.”
“You’re good!? What’s with the carefree attitude!? I go out of my way to wait for you here and you refuse a proper dual!?”
“Yunli, I’ve been fighting all day. Excuse me for being a little tired. Also, knowing you, this is a ploy to get me to bet the sword.” He watched her immediately turn her head and attempt to whistle like he didn’t read her like a book. “You’re unbelievable.”
Yunli whipped her head back around. “And you’re annoying! Man, I was ready for a fight too.”
“I can see that. In truth, despite following Miss Lingsha’s medical advice, I wouldn’t say I’m completely back to normal. Fighting you would definitely agitate my injury, then she’d be upset at both of us.”
A chill ran up Yunli’s spine. An angry Lingsha was not to be taken lightly. With no other choice, she deflated, sitting on the steps to the home. “Fine. I guess I’ll have to challenge you the next time we meet.” Her head was held in her left hand as she sighed.
“Ah, right. Now that the War Dance is over, we’ll be seeing each other less. When…do you leave?”
“Tomorrow afternoon.” Why did it hurt to say? She could feel a twinge in her chest. “It’s my last night here.”
“I see.” It was sooner than he thought. “Well if that’s the case…” Yanqing picked up the sword and made his way past Yunli to open the door. “I suppose I should make you a farewell dinner.”
Yunli’s eyes widened. She looked over her shoulder to see the boy’s ears burn bright red. “What happened to being tired?” Yunli stood up, poking his back lightly.
“I’m not too tired to cook. I have to eat too.”
“Let’s not play this game. I don’t doubt your sincerity, but are you seriously telling me that after a victory like today, you’re not aiming for the best outcome possible? How greedy of you.” She teased further, blushing all the while.
“Well what about you!?” He turned around, a little surprised to see her so close. “You could have challenged me anywhere since you have my number. I would’ve shown up, but you chose to come to my house.”
“That’s- it was a spur of the moment plan! I was here to kick your butt.”
“So you would’ve left me defeated without a new sword if you won? You're brutal but you have tact.”
“Ha! I have no problem taking the wind out of your sails. However…” Yunli scratched the back of her head. “I would stick around. Don’t see why I would run off like a bandit.”
“Because you basically would be.” Yanqing couldn’t help but playfully roll his eyes. This was more tiring than a fight. He opened the door . “You coming in or what? Either way, I’m making dinner.”
“Hold your horses! I was honest, so answer my previous question.”
Why was she so relentless!? Yanqing walked inside. “I’m frankly just happy you’re here, with me.” He confessed. Being genuine was a bit harder than he thought. Didn’t help that she knew how to press his buttons. Yunli didn’t respond, but he heard her footsteps grow closer. The golden light from the outside world dwindled as the door shut behind him.
“Hey doofus.” She called out.
Yanqing turned around to see what she wanted. Somehow, he didn’t expect it to be him. Her arms were around his shoulders in seconds, pulling him into a warm kiss much gentler than the person it came from. Once again, Yunli kept him guessing.
Yunli slowly planted her feet back on the ground as she let him go, only to feel his arms hold her waist and pull her into a deeper, more passionate kiss that made her gasp. Unbelievable. The second they gained privacy, the sword was cast aside and they were making the same ridiculous decisions as last time. Only now they were quicker to the draw and far more confident, or maybe comfortable was a better description? Yunli was perfectly okay staying right here, enjoying the moment. There was a thousand things they could’ve said to each other, yet she knew they would all fail to reach the meaning of their feelings like this kiss would. To think Yanqing could hold her so aggressively, and yet so carefully as well. It made her body feel so weightless. He didn’t want her to go at all; and she couldn’t help but kiss back with the same desire. She was going to miss him so much.
Slowly, the kiss broke. Their limbs stayed tied around one another as they maintained eye contact.
“What happened to being tired?” Yunli uttered, a little breathless. They both giggled at her words. Truly they were helpless.
“Hehe, shut up.” He could stare at her for hours. Feixiao’s words rung clearly in his head as he looked back on every moment with this girl.
“Make m-” She couldn’t even finish before he stole her lips again. Yanli had let her guard down; how careless of her. Looks like they were going to have a match after all. Yunli would never say it aloud but deep down, just like in her room, she wanted Yanqing to win. Sparring is about learning after all. She can win another time.