Another meeting, another sunrise. Any more meetings would render Lu Xun a crotchety old man on the outside, as well. Colorful discourse occurred among the officers as they addressed the looming enemy threats. While Sun Quan deflected topics with greater ease than before, the young strategist still sensed his unease. Personal experienced warranted some understanding of a brave front after all, and–
“Master Lu Xun? Are you still there?”
Following the deep voice, a vague shape waves in front of his face. Ah yes, he has company.
“My apologies. Were you saying something?” This fatigue… is this what Master Ling Tong experienced at all hours? Not that he could ponder the thought, for he was asleep. Xun gazes in the man’s general direction, lacking the energy to lift his head higher.
“Nothing more than ensuring you were present. Those dark circles mimic ominous clouds against the clear sky. Do these times trouble you?”
“That obvious, I see. How unlike me, but I suppose it is no use lying to you, Master Ding Feng.“ The words, deep yet harboring concern, resonate in Xun’s chest. Imaginative speech and ruthless strength combined in one body - an oddly fitting combination. That aside, he is grateful for Ding Feng’s understanding. “With the enemy preparing to strike, we must arm ourselves yet again. While I wield my blades with pride, I do long for the days where I become one with my books.”
A brief pause, and Xun peers toward the golden light as Ding Feng seems to ponder his words. Though they are well-acquainted at this point, self-expression opens the risk of judgment.
“Hm… consider these words, Master Lu Xun. Birds fly well in groups, those in front producing an updraft to aid their friends. Like a potent medicine, they awaken to their senses to eventually complete their journey. Though a fledgling may veer directions, it will find its way home. The story falls within what you have shared with me, though I fear you are only falling asleep.”
So sharp during these early hours, but even the bird references do not soar past. Indeed, he once shared his observations about how some birds flew in an arrow-like formation. It is characteristic of Ding Feng to exercise his poetic knowledge at any moment This was a welcomed one.
“Perhaps I should rest for the evening- ah, morning?” Xun rubbed his eyes as the sun peaked from the horizon. Time passes much too quickly - no more all-night meetings, please.
“Ha ha, I will leave you be. We must continue our talks, however! Should you need time away our studies, I would be happy if you accompanied me on my evening strolls.”
“I shall consider your offer. You may even see me tonight,” Xun manages a warm smile. Fledglings need their strength, after all.
