Swordsman: Sovereign

 

This FanFiction is loosely based on Jin Yong's Smiling Proud Wanderer and the new 2012/2013 series.

 

" Speech "

 

' Thoughts '

 

Salute = The Bao Quan Li - the wrap fist greeting/Fist Wrapping Rite

 

Chapter: 15

 

 

-xXx-

 

“Why would you let your husband marry a nun?!” Ning Zhongze asked, with a slight scrunch of her brow, completely perplexed as her attention was now squarely on Dongfang Bubai.

 

The former cult leader stared coldly for a moment before sighing. Many possibilities ran through her mind about what her husbands former teachers reaction would be once she revealed herself; and most of them were not pleasant.

 

'Well, I guess it's time to come clean about our little charade.' she thought as another sigh escaped her lips.

 

“Little Yilin...She is my sister...”

 

“What?! One of those nuns is big sister?!” Xiong suddenly blurted out, as he ran up to his elder sister and stood to her left.

 

Dongfang Bubai could only smile warmly, as she saw the confused yet excited look on her brothers face.

 

“Yes, the one that is screaming the loudest is Chuju, Dongfang Chuju,” Dongfang Bubai said with a hint of amusement in her voice as she continued to watch the childish nature of her younger sister be on display.

 

As soon as the family name was mentioned. Ning Zhongzes' head shot towards the ex-cult leader with a look of absolute dread.

 

“Dongfang?...” Ning Zhongze said with apprehension, as hung open slightly, waiting fearfully for the answer.

 

“Yes Ning Zhongze...”

 

Without saying another word. Dongfang Bubai took off her headscarf and revealed her beautiful face.

 

Many emotions ran through Heroine Ning as she gazed upon the face of the martial arts world most infamous figure. But none more so then the type of bone chilling fear a person can feel, which causes their body to involuntarily shiver.

 

“You...Your...Your...Are... Dongfang Bubai?!” the martial icon said in horror.

 

Dongfang Bubai forced her lips to close, as she barely stopped herself from blurting out a laugh. Which she knew would only add to her pseudo mother-in-laws fear.

 

“Yes, I know this... But thanks for telling me who I am,” the former cult leader responded playfully.

 

The world around Ning Zhongze began to spin from the shock. But despite this, she didn't pass out as another thought, acting almost as a countering force, shocked her head free from the cobwebs.

 

“Wait! Wait! If you are Dongfang Bubai then Chief Fox is...”

 

Ning Zhongze stopped herself from speaking. The world once again began to spin as she fell back into the waiting hands of her daughter.

 

“Senior Martial Brother...” Yue Lingshan said in her place.

 

Her mother may not have wanted to grasp the reality of the situation. But Yue Lingshan already prepared herself for this bit of news, and albeit her emotions, to were going every which way, she still maintained better control over them.

 

“To be frank, you are taking this better then I thought you would Ning Zhongze; both of you in fact. I expected one of you to yell or scream hysterically while refusing to believe it. Looks like I will have to pay up to Linghu Chong on the bet we made.”

 

“Bet? What kind of bet sister?” Xiong asked now curious.

 

“Don't worry about it. It's the kind of thing a husband and wife do for fun. One day when you get your own wife you will understand.”

 

'Chong'er, what have you done?! How could you make this woman, this, this monster your wife?!' Ning Zhongze thought hysterically.

 

Seeing that her pseudo mother-in-law was still conscious; though still appeared to be disoriented. Dongfang Bubai sought to ease any tension the martial icon most certainly had; although she knew such a task would undoubtedly be titanic.

 

“I will forgive you for what happened in our first meeting heroine Ning... After all, I'm sure you only went along with your husbands schemes at that time, correct?” Dongfang Bubai said with a small smile.

 

As Dongfang Bubai's words sunk in. Ning Zhongzes' dizziness cleared up slightly, as she picked up on the message the former cult leader was trying to convey.

 

'Is this some sort of trick? If I didn't know better, It sounds like she's offering an olive branch of sorts,' the martial icon thought slightly confused.

 

If this were anyone else, except for a select few. Ning Zhongze would think this was the persons way of trying to bury their grudge. And indeed when you try to burn someone alive. Their grudge against you would be undoubtedly great.

 

'I need to regain control over my emotions. Without first speaking to Chong'er, I shouldn't assume anything...'

 

Though not fully trusting the woman; understandable given who the now Madam Linghu truly was. It seemed Ning Zhongze had no other choice then to hope and pray that Dongfang Bubais' actions were sincere.

 

“It was a decision I came to regret... My husband...No, we acted too hastily without knowing your true intentions for being on Mount Huashan. My apologies...Chief Dongfang Bubai.”

 

Releasing herself from her daughters grasp; and standing under her own power. Ning Zhongze bowed slightly, while giving Dongfang Bubai a respectful salute.

 

'Perhaps this will go smoother then I thought,' Dongfang Bubai mused as a smile crossed her face.

 

“Given the man, or lack of a man Yue Buqun is, I shall forgive you.

But, your husband is another story. One way or another he will pay for everything he has done.”

 

Dongfang Bubais' threat was evident, given how the hairs on the back of the neck's of those within earshot of her statement were standing on end.

 

Ning Zhongze became worried as her body was overcome with spasm's of involuntary chills. Despite her husbands apparent evil, he was still her husband, and like any wife who genuinely loves their spouse. She didn't want to see any harm come to him; even if such violence to his person were deserved.

 

'Senior Martial Brother. You have brought the wrath of this woman, Lin Pingzhi, Golden Saber, and only God knows who else upon you. How can you possibly survive?!'

 

Ning Zhongze was at a loss at how to help the man she loved.

 

“And one more thing Ning Zhongze, Dongfang Bubai is dead...”

 

Dongfang Bubai waited a moment before continuing to let the statement fully sink in.

 

“Linghu Chong see's you as a mother; I can understand why, given he is an orphan and you and your husband took him in and raised him. I hope we can be like a true mother and daughter in-law. Or else, I fear Linghu Chongs' heart will be greatly distressed. And despite any mistrust that may exist between us. Neither of us want to cause him any trouble...”

 

Ning Zhongze stared long and hard at her pseudo daughter-in-law trying to gauge her sincerity.

 

'Daughter in-law... Daughter in-law?! Did Chong'er really make this woman his wife?! Even the very thought of it doesn't seem possible. Yet, I can't sense any type of deceit coming from her...'

 

“Of course you are correct. Chong'er has gone through enough pain as of late. I wouldn't want to cause him anymore distress,” Ning Zhongze said softly.

 

Though there was a smile on her aged, yet still attractive face as she spoke the words. Her heart was another matter entirely. It and her thoughts were enwrapped in worry, not only for her former student, but also her husband. Which combined with the heartache she still felt over her daughter's failed marriage. Nearly caused Ning Zhongze to have a nervous breakdown.

 

-xXx-

 

As the saying goes, the jig is up...

 

“Chief!” nearly all of the gray robed nuns cried out when Linghu Chong removed his mask.

 

Their leader had decided to stop his fun once he saw his wife had removed her disguise. Though he didn't do so immediately; for fifteen additional minutes he enjoyed playing on the imagination and fears of the young women.

 

Yilin gazed upon her crush, fighting back the tears which threatened to fall from her eyes. She was beginning to think she would never see him again. Oh how her heart exploded with joy, never in her brief life was she so happy to be wrong.

 

Though, deeper in the teens gaze, was a sense of longing. The type of longing one should not feel being a nun at a monastery. The type of desires one should give up after taking the vow of celibacy. The type of want, a single woman feels for the man she loves.

 

Yilin fought hard to control her desires. She chastised herself for thinking such lewd thoughts. Though she was thankful the other disciples of Mount Hengshan were there. For she feared what she would have done if her and Linghu Chong had been alone at this moment.

 

In fact the look on all of the nuns faces were ones of joy, sprinkled with a bit of relief. They now, twenty strong, surrounded their leader and were in the process of bombarding him with questions of where he had been and if he were in good health.

 

“Ah, look at you girls. It's like you have never seen a man before. If I didn't know better. I would swear some of you wanted to marry your chief,” Dongfang Bubai said while smirking, as she saw the many looks of embarrassment coming from nearly all of the young women.

 

“Sister?!” suddenly screamed an ecstatic Yilin.

 

The second oldest child of the Dongfang household ran up to her beloved older sibling and nearly knocked the former cult leader to the ground as she gave her a giant tackle hug.

 

Dongfang Bubai for her part was a little taken aback by the display of emotion, but didn't shy away. Instead, she returned the show of love with equal passion.

 

“It's okay Yilin. Big sister is here...” the former cult leader said as she choked back tears.

 

“I thought something terrible may have happened to you, since I haven't seen or heard from you in months. It was like you disappeared from the face of the earth.”

 

“In a sense I did...But now, all what matters is not where I was, but that I'm here now and don't plan to leave you like that ever again.”

 

“But why did you leave?! Where have you been?! Why are you here now?!”

 

“Okay, okay one question at a time,” Dongfang Bubai said stifling a laugh.

 

The two continued to embrace. Causing the hearts of many who saw them to grow warm, as they found the scene touching. Even Ning Zhongze and Yue Lingshan were taken aback at how gentle and loving Dongfang Bubai seemed despite her fearsome reputation.

 

“I'm so glad you and Brother Chief are safe. I feared you both had somehow died. Without either of you I don't know what I would do!”

 

Almost as soon as the words left . Yilin realized what she had almost let come out about her feelings for her sisters husband.

 

'My life in the monastery would be ruined if it were known I want to marry Brother Chief. I wouldn't be able to face the other sisters. Elder sister Yihe would scold me, while the others would tease me,' Yilin thought with a bit of embarrassment.

 

Yilin gently broke their embrace, all the while wiping tears from her eyes.

 

“Little sister Yilin. Try not to embarrass Qiang too much. You two will have plenty of time to catch up,” Linghu Chong said warmly.

 

Yilin stared into the eyes of her crush. She saw warmth and encouragement in those eyes. She was brought back to the time when they first met. The determination in his eyes when he fought to save her from being by Tian Boguang. The same eyes which held bravery and defiance when being confronted by the two Qingcheng Sect disciples Luo Renjie and Yu Renhao; an act of courage which nearly cost him his life. The same courage filled eyes which tried to stand up for elders Liu Zhengfeng and Qu Yang in the face of certain death.

 

Those three times he came close to dying each time. But regardless, Linghu Chong strove on, not fearing the consequences of his actions, nor caring about his life so much that it would stop him from doing what he deemed was the righteous thing to do.

 

Her mind began to fantasize about more indecent thoughts, causing the young girl to blush furiously as she tried to beat them back.

 

Said look was not missed by said nuns older sister.

 

“Don't worry, big sis will help you accomplish your dream...” Dongfang Bubai said smirking.

 

The statement was said in a whisper, however to the one it was directed towards. The words were said as if through a megaphone.

 

“..... Errrr...I, what do you mean?” Yilin said trying to keep the embarrassment out of her voice.

 

Dongfang Bubai gave her sister a knowing look. The type of look one woman would give another when they know the other is trying to hide something involving a man they care for deeply; whether a husband or lover.

 

“Don't worry about that for now. Instead, come here quickly.”

 

Without waiting for a response. Dongfang Bubai grabbed Yilin by her left hand and lead her to where Xiong was standing about ten feet away.

 

“Yilin, this is our brother Xiong,” the ex-cult leader said proudly.

 

“What?!” the young nun asked in shock.

 

“Yes elder sister... It's me, little Xiong...”

 

Like his older sister. The youngest Dongfang fought hard to keep his feelings in check, lest they get the better of him. Though the glossy look in his eyes, betrayed his bottled up emotions.

 

“Xiong...” Yilin said warmly.

 

Dongfang Chuju as is her true name. Could barely remember anything that happened before she was taken to live at North Hengshan. At best most things were like a person who was trying to remember the past. Only having photographs to look at instead of home movies.

 

'I may not be able to remember everything from when I was a child. But all of these years, I never forgot that I had a father, an older sister and a baby brother...'

 

Yilins' heart exploded with joy. Akin to what happened a few minutes earlier with her sister. She gave her younger brother a big hug as new tears fell from her eyes.

 

“It's always good when family can be reunited. Don't you agree Heroine Ning?”

 

Ning Zhongze turned her attention towards her former student as he came over to stand a foot from her. A large smile was plastered over his face. Behind him stood the rest of North Hengshan. It almost seemed like they didn't want him to leave their sight. She wagered it was from the fear of losing him again.

 

“Please forgive me for deceiving you and Little Martial Sister all of this time,” Linghu Chong said with a hint of embarrassment in his voice as he scratched an imaginary itch in the back of his head.

 

In a move that surprised everyone and in someway even herself. Yue Lingshan ran past her mother and slammed into Linghu Chong so hard she nearly caused herself and her former martial brother to fall to the ground. Linghu Chong was taken aback, until he heard the sound of muffled crying coming from his chest.

 

“It's okay little sister, it's okay...” he said returning the embrace.

 

The tenderness in his voice and the way he gently the middle of her back prompted Yue Lingshan to cry even harder into chest.

 

The scene went on for nearly five minutes before Mo Da decided to interject, some much needed levity to the situation.

 

“Ah, look at Young Martial Brother Linghu. He certainly seems to know how to make the ladies swoon over him.”

 

The attempt at humor seemed to work. As most of the men and even some of the nuns, burst out in laughter.

 

Though there was one person who didn't find the attempt at humor funny whatsoever.

 

“Yilin is okay, but that one is not permitted...” Dongfang Bubai whispered coldly as she continued to gaze at the scene playing out a few feet away.

 

Standing right next to her sister. Yilin, who broke her embrace with her baby brother a few moments after Yue Lingshan tackled hugged Linghu Chong. Was close enough that she heard her sister's statement and naturally sported a confused look.

 

“Sister, what do you mean? What would I be permitted to do that Yue Lingshan wouldn't be?”

 

Dongfang Bubai didn't want to say anymore, knowing that if Linghu Chong heard their conversation he would end up scolding her.

 

“A time and a place for everything... Now is definitely not the time to bring up such a subject. But, don't worry, big sister will make you very happy and fulfill your hearts desire...”

 

Yilin was obviously confused though she had a feeling she wasn't going to like what her sister had in mind. This sense of foreboding further amplified by the sudden mischievous wink her older sister gave her.

 

-xXx-

 

Twenty minutes later...

 

The former Huashan Sect disciple now found himself in the room assigned to Yue Lingshan. He stood by the closed door, while his former Martial Sister decided to sit on the side of the bed closest to the door. While Ning Zhongze sat on one of the chairs by a small table in the middle of the room.

 

“How are you both feeling?” Linghu Chong asked with concern.

 

The show of emotion was not only evident in his voice, but also his face, which portrayed his feelings.

 

“Myself and Ling'er are fine Chong'er, admittedly a little worse for wear, but overall we are in good health. I'm more concerned about how you are doing? Why did you disguise yourself in that fox mask? How did you end up being the leader of South Hengshan? Is Feng Buping really your underling?”

 

Linghu Chong took a deep breath, before beginning the story of what took place after he and his wife fell off Dark Wood Cliff.

 

Yue Lingshan gazed at her Senior Martial Brother silently as he told his tale.

Now it certainly made sense why 'brother fox' went out of his way to help her and her mother in their times of need.

 

'Senior Martial Brother has always been like that. He would help out whenever he could in a situation, no matter the danger it would put him in,' she thought fondly, as she continued to gaze at her former love.

 

As Linghu Chong finished up his tale. An awkward silence came over the occupant's of the room. The former Huashan Sect disciple didn't quite know how to continue given the strange looks on the faces of both women. It seemed like they had questions for him, but didn't exactly know how to go about asking him.

 

Though in his heart, Linghu Chong had a feeling what the main question, one if not both women wanted to ask.

 

“Chong'er are you are really married?” Ning Zhongze suddenly blurted out, breaking the silence.

 

Linghu Chong simply nodded, a small, almost embarrassed smile etched on his face.

 

“And to Dongfang Bubai?!”

 

Again he simply nodded at his former martial arts teacher.

 

“Chong'er, how could you marry such a infamous and ferocious woman?!”

 

Linghu Chongs' heart nearly broke as he saw the look of distress on his former teachers face.

 

'Can't say I blame her. If Dongfang Bubai were a man and Yue Lingshan married him, then I would feel disturbed as well...'

 

“Many men claim to be men of unfailing love, but who can find a faithful man? This saying also goes for women. How many women truly are faithful and love their spouse with an undying love?”

 

Like a double edged sword. Linghu Chongs' words pierced Ning Zhongze and Yue Lingshan to their core. Each woman were immediately reminded of the heart ache with each of their respected husbands; and in the case of Yue Lingshan, former husband.

 

“Mistress, Little Martial Sister. I thank you both for your concern. But when a man finds the love of his life, and the woman hers. Shouldn't each pursue them with everything in their being?”

 

Neither woman said a word, signaling it was safe for Linghu Chong to continue.

 

“They complain about Dongfang Bubai, but what has this world given to her,

where was her love and respect? This vile and evil world we live in. Full of hypocrites roundabout. Whether they are from the so called righteous or evil sects, they are all the same. Even the love and care from ones parents are not guaranteed...”

 

If the statement sounds familiar, then you would be correct. The words were what Linghu Chongs' beloved wife said shortly after Linghu Chong had stabbed her and then later when he was recovering in the cave. He never forgot those words; mainly the truth which they held.

 

“I know she has done much evil. And that one day she may have to pay a terrible price for the sins of the past. Though I pray that day may never come...Until then, I will call her my beloved wife.”

 

If his wife could have heard his words, she would most definitely called him a sweet talker. But the truth of his passion he held for her was exactly that, the truth, whether it was taken as sweet talk or not.

 

Without warning, Linghu Chong unceremoniously went over and sat down on a chair next to his former master. Linghu Chong fixed his gaze on her for a few seconds, before tenderly taken her hands into his.

 

“Mistress, though we are not related by blood. I've always seen you as my mother. So for my sake. I want you two to try to get along. I think you will find Dongfang Bubai to be not quite as evil as her reputation made her out to be,” he said warmly.

 

“Their is another side to her that only a handful have ever seen. She's not the monster the world thinks she is...”

 

'Well mostly not a monster. Though she can definitely have her moments,' Linghu Chong thought, while recalling some of the times Dongfang Bubai nearly killed Feng Buping since the formation of their own sect.

 

Was it normal for a husband to find it amusing how his wife was a bit homicidal?

 

Every man has traits they are seeking in a wife. I guess for Linghu Chong ferociousness was such an attribute.

 

Though she wanted to protest. Ning Zhongze didn't have the heart to argue with her former disciple. Instead she chose to believe in the judgment of the person she raised. After all, she and Yue Buqun raised Linghu Chong with clear morals.

 

'Yet, look how the quest for power has changed Senior Martial Brother... Chong'er, I only hope for your sake you haven't followed in your masters footsteps, and are correct about your wife. Or else I fear it will be the end of us all if you are wrong...'

 

-xXx-

 

At the same time Linghu Chong was having his conversation. His wife and her family were also having their family reunion inside the room given to Dongfang Bo and his wife.

 

“My Chuju! My Chuju!” Dongfang Bo cried out happily as he hugged his daughter fiercely.

 

Dongfang Chuju, whose name stands for all that is innocent, gentle and pure, just as children are; well some children. An interesting contrast to the beautiful yet wild, strong and willful rose that is her elder sister. She stood at a loss for words, not knowing how to respond to her fathers actions.

 

“A devil, that's what I am, an evil devil!” Dongfang Bo cried out, as he momentarily released his embrace and began to repeatidly slap himself in the face.

 

“Father what are you doing?!”

 

Before Yilin could stop him. The elder Dongfang dropped to his knees and wrapped both arms around his daughters legs.

 

As he clung, almost as if for dear life. A stream of tears soaked the bottom of Yilins gray robe.

 

“I'm to blame for this! I'm responsible for turning you into this,” old Bo said repeatedly, while grabbing his youngest daughter's legs even tighter.

 

“Father please stop this!” Yilin said as she bent down and tried to get her father to stand.

 

When she couldn't move him. The teen turned to her sister for help, but was surprised to see a cold stare directed towards her. In truth the glare wasn't directed towards her, but for the man who clung onto her legs.

 

“Sister do something!” she said with pleading eyes.

 

The desperate plea seemed to fall on death ears as Dongfang Bubai continued to stand silently. Her face not even showing a hint of emotion.

 

“No husband I am to blame! I pressured you into abandoning them that day. Now look at Chuju. Poor Chuju won't be able to get married and have children of her own because of me!” Meh-funh cried out as she to joined her husband on the floor but only held on to the left side of her stepdaughters robe.

 

Yilin felt completely helpless. A part of her wanted to feel resentment towards her father and stepmother for what they had done. But, as she gazed upon their pitiable state, she couldn't push herself to fully do that.

 

'For years I wished to have a family. As the other sister's in the nunnery had their families come and visit them, I always felt envy. Why couldn't that be me? Why couldn't I have the smile on my face and feeling of warmth that accompanied a visit?'

 

Looking once again at her sister and then at both her father and stepmother Yilin let out a heavy sigh. She had a feeling why Dongfang Bubai was being so silent. Before going to meet her estranged parents. Her elder sister had informed the teen how she planned on making them pay for what happened in the past.

 

'I will admit it's tempting to do so...But...They are our parents. How can we do such a thing?'

 

“Sister, we can't kill our own parents...It...It wouldn't be right...”

 

“Who says?!” Dongfang Bubai snapped back.

 

The ice cold stare and more so the viciousness in her elder sister's voice nearly caused Yilin to yelp in fear.

 

But the fear didn't last long as the teen mustered her courage.

 

“Sister no!” Yilin said defiantly.

 

Stubbornness was a Dongfang family trait it seemed. Also pride, and a single minded determination to achieve ones goals. All three Dongfang children had these traits. But they appeared no stronger then in the eldest of the group.

 

“Sister, please! It was for my sake that they thought to abandon you. If they are to be punished then I should bare it,” Xiong said injecting himself into the conversation for the first time.

 

The youngest member of the Dongfang's knelt down behind his parents and along with Yilin, pleaded to his his sister to change her mind.

 

Dongfang Bubai started to feel pangs of guilt after hearing her siblings speak.

One after the other her own deeds began to replay in her mind. Indeed she was guilty of much, and truth be told, the former cult leader probably deserved death for her actions.

 

'No doubt about it, I do deserve death for the things I have done. But, God has given me another chance through Linghu Chong. If we could overcome the enmity that nearly caused us to be forever apart. Then shouldn't I forgive my father and Meh-funh for their crimes?'

 

“Don't waste your time begging me to put it off. A trial will take place...”

 

“But sis...--” Yilin stopped in mid complaint as Dongfang Bubai motioned with a wave of her hand that she wasn't done speaking.

 

“But don't fear, I will not be the one to decide their fate. Linghu Chong volunteered to be the judge. Knowing him, he will do all he can to make sure neither one of you are punished.”

 

In truth, the real reason Dongfang Bubai wanted to have a trial wasn't to find a 'legal' way to take her father and step-mothers lives. She had actually given up on that idea; and in no small part do to Linghu Chongs' persuading.

 

Then what drove her now you might ask? Well the former cult leader wanted to satisfy the part of her that just didn't want to see her parents get away scot-free without suffering even a little. She wanted them to at least feel a little bit of the fear and uncertainly of the future their children went through, the years following their abandonment.

 

'When I first arrived in the Sun Moon Holy Cult I was deathly afraid. Being around strange people, who had the worse possible reputation among the common people. Yet there I was living among them, alone, confused and scared...'

 

Dongfang Bubai let out a heavy sigh. Her heart ached, remembering those nights of barely getting enough sleep do to the fear.

 

'My master treated me with respect and never revealed or tried to take advantage of my being a woman. But what would have happened if someone less gentlemanly would have found out my true gender and tried to take advantage of me before I became able to defend myself...'

 

The thought caused her anger to spike, but she quickly calmed herself, knowing the killing intent radiating from her body would terrify everyone in the room.

 

“We can talk about trials and retribution another day; especially since I already told you Linghu Chong will rig this trial in your favor...Now get up and stop blubbering like some child!” Dongfang Bubai said with some disgust and a roll of her eyes.

 

If you could only hear the voices and not see who were speaking. A person might think a mother was scolding their child, given the way Dongfang Bubai chastised her father.

 

“Ah, yes...“Old Bo said with a slightly embarrassed look as he slowly rose to his feet.

 

Dongfang Bubai then turned towards her brother with a penetrating stare, which caused the youngest Dongfang to gulp nervously.

 

“And you!” she said pointing an accusatory finger towards her brother.

 

“How many times do I have to tell you about this whole blame me for my parents crimes thing?!”

 

“But big sister, I was only trying to protect them...” Xiong said sheepishly as he lowered his head towards the floor; unable to meet Dongfang Bubai's fierce stare.

 

“But sister nothing! Despite what you may think! What they did had little to to do with you and was more about saving their own necks! Keep talking about sacrificing yourself and I will shave your head and send you to live in a monastery as monk Buke Buhui!”

 

Xiong had a look of horror on his young face. But before he could even utter a word, his mother suddenly stood in front of him, with her arms spread wide; as if trying to shield him.

 

“No! I won't let him go!” Meh-funh said with a look of defiance.

 

Dongfang Bubai stared blankly at her stepmother for a few seconds, before doubling over in laughter.

 

The former cult leader had to wipe a few tears from her eyes; she were laughing so hard.

 

“Thank you Meh-funh. I needed a good laugh,” Dongfang Bubai said after a minute straight of laughter.

 

Almost as abruptly as it came, Dongfang Bubai straitened up and fixed her stepmother with a piercing glare.

 

“As if you could stop me if I wanted to take him,” Dongfang Bubai said pointedly, her eyes ablaze with fury.

 

Like a mouse terrified to paralysis. Meh-funh found herself unable to move or even speak.

 

Starting to panic once her sister took a step towards their step-mother. Yilin quickly intervened Thinking Dongfang Bubai might do something to Meh-funh out of anger.

 

“Sister that's enough, no need to be mad. Little Xiong was only trying to do what is natural for a child to do. And step-mother only did what was natural for a mother,” Yilin said as she gently grabbed her sister's left arm in an attempt to soothe away her apparent anger.

 

The gesture worked, as Dongfang Bubai let out a heavy sigh, though not before she got one last jab in.

 

“And where was this natural caring for ones kin when we were abandoned?”

 

The room became deafly silent, but by the looks of shame on Old Bo and his wifes' faces and the uncomfortable looks on her sister and brothers young faces. Dongfang Bubai knew her statement had the intended effect.

 

“Let me make one thing perfectly clear. Only Linghu Chong has the power to make me do anything against my will, no one else does. I suggest no one forgets this. But...For now lets just drop this issue....”

 

At another mention of her crushes name. Yilin immediately perked up, her very face seemed to brighten, followed by her cheeks sporting a bit of red.

 

This was not missed by her sister.

 

'Look how happy she gets just thinking of Linghu Chong; her mind completely focuses on him and forgets about everything else. How can I get Linghu Chong to change is mind about marrying her? That man is more pig headed on certain issues then I am!' Dongfang Bubai thought a bit frustrated at her dilemma.

 

Akin to rubbing salt into a wound. Old Bo chose that moment to utter what he thought was an innocent statement. But, as he would soon come to find out. Would threaten the harmony between his two daughters.

 

“Yes, chief is a fair man. What ever he decides, myself and my wife will except it. Even if I die, the Dongfang name will live on. At least I raised a brave and handsome son, who one day will become a great hero. And the daughters who I thought were lost have been returned to me...”

 

Yilin felt warm all over, as she beamed with pride after hearing the compliment directed towards her Linghu Chong.

 

“Chief is indeed a great hero and I'm proud to have him as my son-in-law. Hopefully, I will meet my future grandchildren before leaving this world,” stated Dongfang Bo once more.

 

Once again Yilin beamed with pride over her crush.

 

Often times when a person's mind is concentrating on something else. They can miss key information being spoken to them and it may take a few seconds before some words fully sink in.

 

“What?! Who is your son-in-law?!” Yilin asked in confusion.

 

The sudden outburst startled everyone in the room. Dongfang Bubai looked at her younger sister in panic before turning away in shame; not able to meet Yilin's confused glare. But quickly mustering her courage. The former cult leader eventually let out a sigh, knowing she could no longer avoid what she so fearfully presumed would be a difficult and perhaps painful conversation.

 

Though not at the moment...

 

“Yilin...I will explain myself and Linghu Chongs' relationship a little later...But for now lets just focus on our father and Meh-funh. Despite what happened in the past...They both do seem to be happy to see you. So focus on that for now and don't worry your head about other issues...Please do this for big sister...”

 

Dongfang Bubai tried to sound reassuring, but the worried look written all over her pretty face betrayed her true feelings.

 

Though she only gave a nod and a hint of a smile was on her face. It took all of Yilins' might and self control to keep herself from breaking down into a quivering mess of tears. For she already guessed what the relationship was between the two most important people in her life, and frankly, she felt as if someone had taken a knife and carved out her heart.

 

-xXx-

 

Two days later, right before noon...

 

Linghu Chong and Dongfang Bubai had decided to given everyone time to clear their heads and to refresh themselves after the long trip before resuming daily clan life. Linghu Chong joked it was an extended version of sleeping in; given the long trip and the heartfelt reunions which took place after their return.

 

This decree was much appreciated by all, and both the Swordsect and the Hengshan Sect nuns took the extra time to restore their vitality; both mentally and physically.

 

Now with the rest out of the way. Daily clan life resumed or tried to...

 

With the sun beating down on their disciples who were thirty yards away. Linghu Chong and Dongfang Bubai sat on two chairs in the meeting hall, overlooking the training of said young men.

 

The pair were dressed in nearly matching white robes. It seemed they had become fond of the color ever since leaving Feng Qingyang. Both robes were made of high quality silks and like the two who wore them. Even the novice person could tell the quality of said garment were extraordinary.

 

The newlyweds watched as Feng Buping instructed the new/old disciples Yau Guang, Chee Wang, Ling Chen, Tian Tung in the martial arts of the sect. They observed as Mo Da continued to fulfill his promise to help build the sect up. By giving pointers to all of the students from his vast knowledge.

 

They had to give it to both men. They each seemed to possess something different in the way of experience that would help a young martial artist grow.

 

“I have to give Feng Buping credit. He really has taken his role as head elder seriously. I must say he has surprised me; and for the better,” Dongfang Bubai said smirking.

 

“Indeed, I thought he would have back-stabbed us by now. But it seems like he is truly loyal,” Linghu Chong said trying to stifle a laugh.

 

“Hmph! He knows what will happen to him if he even tries such a thing!” Dongfang Bubai said coldly, scaring the two servant girls who were standing five feet behind her and her husband; waiting obediently for any instructions.

 

“Hmm, true...You would most likely castrate him, strip the man , then nail him to the front of the compound,” Linghu Chong said shivering at the disturbing thought.

 

Dongfang Bubai smirked. Her husband knew her all to well.

 

Though he couldn't hear the conversation. Feng Buping felt a chill pierce his body followed by a feeling of impending doom. He quickly looked behind him to see if he could find the source of his trouble, but immediately turned back and resumed instructing the students as he had met the cold gaze of Dongfang Bubai.

 

Linghu Chong could only laugh out of amusement. If anything, his beloved's ferociousness made things lively.

 

“Anyway enough about Feng Buping. Have you given thought about what we talked about last night?” Dongfang Bubai said flatly, as she turned her full attention back to her husband.

 

“Oh, you mean about finding a way for Yilin to be free from the vows of a nun?”

 

“Yes, though Yilin hasn't said this outright. She is clearly not cut out to be a Buddhist, yet because of Master Dingyi's kindness towards her, she feels obligated to stay even though the woman is dead!”

 

Linghu Chong could hear the frustration in his wife's voice.

 

Though without saying the words he knew his wife still wanted him to take Yilin as his second wife.

 

Which was still something he vehemently refused to do.

 

'Not going to happen...One woman is difficult enough to deal with. But two, and sister's at that? And who's to say it would stop with just those two. Once Ying Ying finds out I married the two Dongfang sisters, she will undoubtedly wonder why not her. Then Yue Lingshan may also say why not her; given what happened with Lin Pingzhi. I would end up with four wives. Four! Two of which would want to murder the other, and cause constant strife. Linghu Chong may not be the smartest person in the world. But, WHY WOULD I BRING THAT UPON MYSELF?!'

 

“Don't worry a way to help Yilin will present itself...”

 

With a warm smile plastered on his handsome face. Linghu Chong held his wife's right hand in his left.

 

“I know you care about Yilin deeply, but some thing's cannot be forced. Let things play out and when the time comes, do whatever is best for her.”

 

Dongfang Bubai appreciated the encouragement. It was this trait, along with his many other attributes, which made her decide to spend the rest of her life with the man she loved.

 

“Sweet talker, no wonder I ended up in your bed,” Dongfang Bubai said with a playful wink.

 

The statement caught Linghu Chong and the two servant girls completely off guard. Said husband blushed out of embarrassment while the two young women giggled, while looking at Linghu Chong with a bit of youthful lust.

 

But thankfully for him, before his wife could utter another word. As if on cue. Yilin and the rest of the North Hengshen disciples walked over and knelt down ten feet in front of their leader.

 

“Ah, I'm glad to see you girls. I was just about to go and look for you all. But, why are you kneeling?” Linghu Chong asked genuinely confused by their actions, as he got up and slowly walked over to them.

 

Yihe being the eldest disciple chose to speak in that moment for the entire group.

 

“Brother Chief, we've discussed it amongst ourselves and feel it is the right thing to do. Ever since you explained to us about your injury we've been unable to get the pain you must have gone through out of our minds. We as disciples failed to help our master in his time of need. Please forgive us... We request that you punish your disciples accordingly.”

 

Linghu Chong was genuinely surprised by the actions of the young women. Never did it or would it of ever entered his mind to blame them for what happened to him after falling off Black Wood Cliff.

 

“Why would I punish you all for something that wasn't your fault? Now please stand and explain themselves further.”

 

The nuns though did not budge even an inch.

 

“Brother Chief, after Master Dingyi died, not only did we swear to avenge her death, but we also swore then nothing like her death would happen again; we swore to protect you even at the expense of our own lives. We nearly failed to keep our promise concerning you, and it's only right for us to face punishment.”

 

Though it was Yihe who spoke. The other nuns affirmed her statement one after another.

 

“You girls are...”

 

Linghu Chong had to compose himself, lest the emotion welling up inside his heart cause the tears he was restraining to burst out.

 

“I thank you all for your concern. A chief could not ask for anything greater then to know his disciples have such great care for him in their hearts. But, this talk of punishment needs to st...--”

 

Linghu Chong stopped himself mid-sentence as a series of thoughts began to run through his head.

 

'Punish...Punish...Wait! That's it! They just gave me an idea about how to help Qiang accomplish her goal for Little Martial Sister Yilin,' he thought with a pleased smile.

 

“I mean...Now that I gave it some more thought. You all may have a point...I could have died...” he said feeling a bit of shame for the outright sham he was about to perpetrate against the unsuspecting women.

 

'May they forgive me...'

 

Linghu Chong then recounted how bones all over his body had been broken and that he had little to no mobility. How he thought he was going to die and had to rely on Dongfang Bubai and Feng Qingyang to feed and clean him.

 

He even waved his hands wildly in the air, to give extra oomph to his exaggerated display of mock anger.

 

He vowed to ask for their forgiveness later and somehow make it up to them for his act of deceit.

 

Linghu Chongs' act was quite convincing; even his wife was taken aback by his sudden chastising of them.

 

With some surprise but more so shame written all over their faces. The young nuns turned their eyes away from their leader and instead focused towards the ground; as they were unable to meet his gaze.

 

“Please chief, whatever punishment you give us we will not argue.”

 

The other North Hengsheng members again joined their Martial Sister in confirming the request for punishment.

 

“Okay...Since you all want to be punished so badly I will oblige your request, but there is no need for all of you to bare the brunt for your failure,” he said continuing the display of mock anger.

 

Linghu Chong made eye contact with his wife. At first the ex-cult leader gazed at him with confusion, but once he started mouthing the words Yilin and made a gesture with his right hand like he was launching a needle. She finally had an idea of what the man she loved wanted done.

 

Using her inner energy to discretely bring a pebble into her right hand. Dongfang Bubai began to slowly walk around the kneeling women so as not to alert them to her intentions. Positioning herself to be behind the group, but more so her sister; who was near the middle. Dongfang Bubai flicked the small rock into the posterior of said younger sibling, causing Yilin to jump up in surprise, while letting out a sharp painful yelp.

 

“Ah, little sister Yilin...I see you are brave enough to take the punishment for your sisters, admirable...Very admirable...” Linghu Chong said with a large smile.

 

Yilin went wide eyed as she stopped rubbing the sore spot on her posterior and instead looked upon her crush in confusion.

 

“But Brother Chief, something hit me on my...I mean I didn't...--”

 

“You don't have to be modest. It's quite brave of you to sacrifice yourself for your sisters.”

 

Yilin could only stare, akin to a dear caught in the headlights.

 

'The things I do for love. I really hope I don't come to regret what I'm about to do,' Linghu Chong thought as he took a deep breath.

 

“From this day forward... Yilin...Little Martial Sister Yilin is hear by expelled from North Hengshan and may never return...”

 

All in all it was a normal day for the sect...

 

 

-xXx-