#bolo warrior

[astoldbyaja]

Warrior (HBO Max) Li Yong x Black Female OC X Zing x Bolo

I've got a 38 chapter work in progress from the Max series warrior if anyone is interested in reading. I may post it on here. It's smutty and violent i'll tell you what! XD

[astoldbyaja]

The Blossom surrounded by Fire - Ch. 41 (Warrior AU- HBO MAX)

I needed an escape from the world of tongs and dangerous men… I was in a black dress wearing a black cloak over my head to hide much of my face. I sat in the rice shop waiting for Hong.

This was dangerous, a doctor of Long Zii sneaking around with a hatchet man of Hong. His face comes into my view as he just looks into the darkness of my cloak, his smile wide and innocent.

“Hi!” he said happily. He doesn’t say my name this time. He’s being careful.

“Hi.” I said lowly before smiling, and he takes my hand and pulls me from the shop. I follow him through the darkness of the streets, staying hidden between homes and businesses as we make our way to Barbary Coast.

“Hong… are you not afraid of what could happen if someone sees us together?” I asked looking around making sure to keep my head down.

“No.” he said in a matter-of-fact tone. “I know how to be stealthy.”

“But you are officially a hatchet man of the Hop Wei, I’m sure Father Jun would not like this.” I replied.

“Young Jun permitted me to take you out.” he said. I looked at the back of his head shocked of his words.

“What?” I asked.

“Yeah, you were right, you’re a healer of Long Zii and I’m a hatchet man for Hop Wei. Young Jun thought it would be good for me to try invite you out and spy on you for him to see if you know any secrets about the Long Zii.” he explained. I should have been offended but seeing as I am about to use Young Jun for my own information, I decided to let it go.

“But I don’t know any personal business of the Long Zii.” I lied. Hong nodded.

“I know! Which is why we’re going to take this night to have fun!” he said happily. This man could be very bubbly, and I was unsure how I felt about it, but from the look of his eyes, he’s always genuine around me even knowing we are of two different tongs.

After some walking, he finally stopped between two alleyways across from a big building guarded by two large men. Hong looked at me with a gentle smile.

“Tonight, we are not Hop Wei or Long Zii. Tonight, society doesn’t hate us.” he said. My eyes slowly flexed at his words and slowly he slid off my hood revealing my face to the air. My hair was in a long braid with silver tiara around my head, my pointed ears flexing from the cool air hitting the tips. I didn’t want to worry about our affiliations. I nodded up at him and he smiled and the two of us began to walk from the alleyway, approaching the two large men. I could hear music coming from inside, it was unlike anything I had ever heard.

The outside world seemed to push into the back of my mind as the two large men looked at Hong and me. They looked at my ears and seemed mesmerized by my appearance before nodding and allowing us to enter. The sound of music and laughter washed over us as we saw people moving about, sitting at tables talking and laughing. A small stage was at the front of the building, but part of the building had gambling tables and lanterns in the ceiling that were covered with different colored fabrics that made the lights different colors.

Peoples were dressed up in flashy dresses and suits and seemed to be entertaining the crowd all around. I looked around at the different colors of people laughing and talking. I was drawn into this scene. Only at night can we all come together but with the sun we are all enemies of each other again. I suddenly noticed Hong was not with me and I paused in my walk and looked around for him. I could see the back of his head at the bar ordering drinks and he approached me with two whiskeys.

“Bottoms up!” he said, and he threw his drink back, but I only sipped it, thinking I needed to be of mind and body. I looked around at the many performers and singers. Some were in masks and others in frilly dresses from a different period of time. Hong placed his hand on my lower back and leaned into me. “Go and mingle… don’t worry I’ll be watching out for you!”

I really didn’t want to leave his side, but he was already leaving mine and I lost him in the celebration and excitement of the crowd. Instead, I moved toward the wall merely cradling my drink to me as I did my best to ignore the gazes from men and women who passed me obviously giving second glances at my ears. But the gazes were not angry or disgusting, they were mesmerizing and envious.

However, a beautiful soul clenching voice caught my attention as I looked toward the stage to see another colored woman singing a song that I was familiar with. It was a negro spiritual that was sang on the fields of my plantation. I feel my heart tighten as the words take me back to a time, I wish I could forget. Everyone was mesmerized by her voice and so was I. I felt gentle tears slide down my face as I listened to her sing to the crowd.

I let my feet carry me to the wave of people dancing and I just joined in letting my body be absorbed into the numerous bodies around me. Men touched me, women touched me, I touched them, and I let my body become claimed by the voice on stage. Somehow her voice, instead of bringing me anxiety and panic from my past, brought me into a state of ease. I felt like I was floating on clouds away from all who wish to hurt me, who don’t understand me. Some was kissing the side of my neck, heavy hands resting on my hips as our bodies moved together.

I didn’t even look at the man touching me, because I didn’t care. I just wanted to dance and be captivated by the music. Whoever this man was behind me, he was tall, and from glancing at his hands he was white. I still didn’t care. I didn’t care about the familiar scent that flooded my nose, I didn’t care about the way he squeezed my hips, possessively. After a moment, more bodies were moving against me, and I managed to move from the pair of hands that held me and moved through the crowd and was now down a hall ignoring the people kissing and making out in the hallway.

I wanted to find Hong, and make sure he was okay. He said he was watching me, but I wanted to watch out for him too. I heard a muffled grunt in one of the rooms and a familiar whispering, so without much thought, I opened the door to see Hong pinned against the wall by some man. I gasped and yelled, letting my feet move for me. I jumped atop fo the man who had pinned Hong and was screaming.

“Get off him!” I yelled making the man yelp out as he fell to the ground.

“Amaka, wait!” Hong yells as he just lifts my body off him. “It’s not what you think!”

I looked at him confused as the stranger now stood up and looked at me with wide eyes. He was wearing an upscale outfit with mild makeup? He had a certain charming face about him that was for sure. I looked at Hong confused.

“What?” I asked, and Hong looked at the man and then at me with a look of nervousness.

“Amaka this is Marcel… he and I are together.” he said. I shook my head confused and he just took the man’s hand and gently raised it to his lips and kissed the top of his knuckles. I watched the action, watching as Marcel smiled at Hong and Hong smiled back before finally looking at me gauging my reaction and I just stepped back some trying to make sense of it all.

“You like being intimate with men.” I said lowly. Hong tensed and nodded.

“And dating them and… maybe one day marrying a man.” he said slowly and cautiously. My head was spinning from the words he said before looking down some in thought. I didn’t really know how to feel about the news, but then again, this news didn’t concern me, and I didn’t come here to worry about the people Hong slept with. Did his tong know? I wasn’t sure, but then again the information I just heard would do nothing for my plans to get non-existing information from Young Jun about Long Zii’s death. I looked up at Hong and then Marcel and then Hong again. I sighed and nodded.

“Okay.” I said, accepting this information. Hong looked at me stunned taking a step closer to me.

“Okay?” he asked, his eyes asking me if, I was sure of this information I had just heard. I nodded.

“Okay.” I said nodding firmly my eyes showing I accepted this. His eyes widened and he happily hugged me which I wasn’t expecting him to do. I didn’t think he cared about my thoughts on his sexual ways, so the fact he hugged me tight had stunned me.

“Okay!” he said happily. Marcel seemed genuinely happy by the scene, and I just placed my hands on his back patting him gently. After we pulled back, I gently stepped back knowing they’d want some time alone.

“I’ll just be hanging out here until you’re ready to go.” I said with an encouraging smile and Hong smiled.

“Don’t forget to have fun yourself!” he said. Marcel wrapped his arms around Hong’s body and kissed his cheek.

“With ears like hers, she’s going to attract quite a lot of attention.” he swooned, and I just smiled some hoping to not really attract any attention. I left the room trying to take my mind off of the conversation that was just had, and I turned and began to move back down the hall. I planned to further explore this club, however a tight hand around my mouth and an arm around my waist had me screaming in shock as my body was lifted off the ground, a door was kicked opened behind me, and I was now pulled inside with the door closing behind me.

[astoldbyaja]

The Blossom surrounded by Fire - Ch. 40 (Warrior AU- HBO MAX)

Li Yong’s cock was churning my insides as he gripped my hips guiding me up and down on him. The storm that rolled in grew heavier as our bodies moved in perfect sync together. I was sat perfectly on his lap moving my hips move and more on him. I could feel him in my stomach.

His mouth on my throbbing pussy alone was enough to make me push everything that happened today to the back of my mind. My body harness was on the ground, thrown off into the darkness.

“I never want to see this on you again.”

His words were thick and commanding. I wouldn’t disobey. I moaned out rhythmically with each sharp movement of our hips. My arms were wrapped around his neck, and he was looking all over my face and ears with such devotion. I had never seen such look in a man’s eyes before. He used one hand to curl up in my hair and bring me close to him, our chests rubbing together. His other hand still had a tight hold on my hip guiding me up and down on him. I whimpered out lowly feeling that tightness in me coil up even harder.

I then feel a gush of pleasure and I jerk forward some, moaning hard and holding Li Yong against my body. He keeps moving my hips however, overstimulating me to a point of no return. He draws out my orgasm until I’m screaming with pleasure against him. I feel him release everything inside me and he lets out a guttural grunt as holds my hips firmly down, so he doesn’t waste a single drop inside me.

We collapsed on the bed panting heavily together. The lust cleared from our eyes as we watched each other, and slowly he ran his hand over my hip.

“On a lighter note… Kong Pak likes you.” he said.

I felt we should be talking about everything that went down tonight, from the Irish attacking to Long Zii’s assassination. But somehow, hearing his words made my eyes sparkle as the lust faded from my eyes.

“How do you know?” I asked. Li Yong smiled warmly as he brought his hand up to caress my cheek.

“He invited you to tea… that’s a very good sign.” he said. That’s right, the Jiang Yao leader did invite us over for tea to talk and train. I smiled warmly.

“I am glad your mentor approves of me.” I replied gently. However, worry began to dance in my eyes and Li Yong saw this. His stare remained light.

“You are worried about Long Zii.” he said. I nodded slowly.

“I guess I am just worried… you say you will take care of everything, but I have no idea if that will have consequences for me or the tong.” I replied. Li Yong nodded.

“This tong is my responsibility, and you are a part of it. Mai Ling will either want to hunt down the culprit responsible or she will be too happy at taking over the tong fully to truly care who did it.” he said. I shook my head.

“But in some way won’t she feel outsmarted? Will you ever tell her it was you?” I asked. Li Yong shook his head.

“She thinks it was the Hop Wei, that’s all she needs to believe. She will never know I was behind it.” he explained. And now a secret has formed between us, and I nodded slowly looking down over his body, admiring the scars that he had on his body from years of survival. I gently nodded remembering all the times he has been there for me, protected me. I moved to his hand that was on my face and gently curled our hands together.

“I’ll take that secret to the grave with me. I trust you.” I said. He smiled and nodded leaning forward to press a gentle kiss to my lips. I responded without hesitation. “But who did you work with to… do the deed while we were at the fight?”

He grinned and shook his head.

“The little you know, the better. Just do your part as a healer and I will do mine.” he said. I nodded at his words decided not to press as he was right, the little I knew the better.

The next morning, funeral arrangements were being prepared by the tong for Long Zii and some of the fallen men. There would a meeting being held to discuss the future of the tong. I did meet with Mai Ling alone who was in a pale white gown. A white flower in her hair. It was just she and I in her room. She stared out the window of her room. She looked very beautiful in white.

“Long Zii won yesterday’s fight… but due to the Irish and Fung Hai and Hop Wei stepping in, we are back at square one with Zing. We owe him yet again for his help… seeing as we have a partnership, it’s only a matter time before he uses that against me when it comes to you.” she said, her voice cold and low. I winced at her words but was not too surprised. Zing knew how to be a step ahead of the game. He saw those Irish and only thought of using them to his advantage.

“What do you want of me Mai Ling?” I asked. She finally turned to me and approached with her fingers together.

“I want you to ensure Zing’s dick stays wet, so he doesn’t cause trouble.” she said. I could see in her eyes, she emotional, she’s angry that someone killed her husband before she could. “I know what I am asking for will be… unbearable for you. But if someone could kill my husband before I could, then that means someone could kill me. I need Zing’s loyalty, his tong’s strength and his business.”

I stared at her for a moment watching as he approached and took my hands in hers. Her eyes were now gentle and soft.

“Amaka… you are one of the few people I trust in this tong. I need you to do this for me.” she said with a hint of firmness. I looked at her with strength in my eyes and I nodded.

“I will do what my tong leader asks of me.” I said with a gentle bow of my head.

“I thank you… You will go to the Fung Hai and show your gratitude for Zing’s help on my behalf and this will stay between you and I. Li Yong need not know and stress himself out of your duties.” she said. I felt my stomach tighten at her words and I looked up and nodded.

“Yes Mai Ling.” I replied. She nodded.

“Good.” she replied.

“What about the Hop Wei, they helped too.” I replied. Mai Ling stiffened and turned from me.

“Soon I will wave war on them for all the trouble they have caused my tong… but I need to be sure that they were the ones who did this before I make this war permanent. Young Jun favors you, I want you to find out what he knows, I don’t care how you get this information.” she said coolly. I kept my body still, my face blank to show I was listening. The life of a slave has taught me to keep a straight face when needed and right now I needed to do that. She wants me to fuck Hop Wei too to find out if they truly killed Long Zii? What difference would it made if they did or didn’t? She wanted them dead no matter what. I nodded.

“I will do this.” I replied and she nodded.

“Before I forget… I had spoken with Ah Toy, she was very happy to give some dresses to you. You and she have gotten close, so she had some dresses sent to your home. I allowed the carrier to bring them to your room.

I had returned to my home upon hearing about these dresses and was quite shocked at how beautiful and color each dress was. I could tell many of them were made to resemble Ah Toy’s sense of fashion. The colors were soft however to show my caring nature and responsibility as a doctor. The different designs and patters were beautiful. But where could I wear such a dress to, the brothel perhaps? I was moving to put all the dresses away then grabbed the dress I wore yesterday. As I emptied the pockets I saw a piece of paper inside. I remembered Hong said he stuck it inside.

Great. I looked at the address and saw it was at the Barbary Coast. Did he expect me to just waltz through there on my own? That place was not a place I needed to walk at alone that was for sure. I couldn’t worry about that now. I got dressed in one of my usual gowns and headed into town needing to be on my own for a bit to think. Word will soon spread that Long Zii is dead, and Mai Ling will inevitably take over. She will get push back if not from her tong’s elders, then from the other tongs. She may be cunning but she’s still a woman. As I moved through the busy streets, I feel my body bump into a figure in all black. A bull, I immediately recoiled with a chant of sorries ready, however the man held his hands up with a smile.

“Officer Lee.” I replied and the man tipped his hat to me.

“Amaka, good morning.” he said almost cheerfully. I gave a soft nod.

“Hello.” I replied. He stood up straight now.

“I uh… was hoping to find you somewhere here on my patrol.” he said. I was a bit worried now. The cops were looking for me. Was it due to the Irish?

“What would the cops want of me?” I asked. He immediately shook his head chuckling a bit.

“Not the department- me specifically. I was curious about you and your ears. I gotta say I have never met a woman with special ears like yours.” he said. I noticed the accent immediately now that we weren’t surrounded by crowds of people. I tensed some, not only at his accent, but as well as the few Fung Hai men making their presence known in the distance of the town. It seemed they were keeping an eye on me for their leader.

“You’re from the south.” I commented looking up at him again. Lee nodded.

“Yes ma’am. Savannah, Georgia to be exact.” he said. My chest tightened at his words.

“I see.” I replied and looked around some thinking it wasn’t best to be talking so openly to a bull. “Well welcome to Chinatown.”

I turned from him and then felt his hand on my forearm.

“Oh wait. I was wondering… if you and I could sometime. I mean I would like to know how your ears got like that.” he said. I noticed the Fung Hai members didn’t seem too pleased at how close Lee was to me nor his hand on me. I looked away nervously before looking up at him.

“I’m sorry Officer Lee… I don’t think my people would like that. I’m sorry I must go.” I replied lowly. He could see the nervousness in my eyes and immediately let me go.

“Of course… um, I hope we can talk again.” he said tipping his hat to me and I nodded and separated from him. I felt a wave of anxiety crushing down on me.

Li Yong killed Long Zii. Mai Ling thinks the Hop Wei killed Long Zii and soon the two tongs will go to war. Mai Ling wants me to keep Zing in place which is a very risky move seeing that no one could control that man. And now I am forced to keep that information hidden from Li Yong as well as having to go to the Hop Wei about Long Zii knowing they weren’t responsible or maybe they were. Li Yong got someone to kill Long Zii. It couldn’t be some bum off the street, no. They’d never survive the other enforcers let alone take down some of them to get to Long Zii. No whoever this person was, they had skill. They had to be a tong member.

I thought about who I could go see in this moment, who I could talk to. During this time, Chao was most likely doing business with someone. I guess Ah Toy was the only option. I should thank her for the dresses anyways.

Once I made it to her brothel, I was let in, and Lai saw me from the top of the stairs. I smiled as she hurried down the stairs and approached me with a smile. I smiled back.

“Hi Lai. I feel like it’s been a while since we have seen each other… is Ah Toy here?” I asked. She nodded and motioned toward the stairs. I assumed she was in her room. I said a brief thanks for making my way up to her room. I could hear movement behind her door.

“Ah Toy, it’s Amaka.” I replied.

“Come.” I heard after a few seconds. I stepped inside and found her bed and she was in it, naked. But she was not alone. Curled up in her arms was none other than Nellie, naked, herself. She saw me and looked a bit stunned as did I.

“Ah Toy. Nellie.” I replied. Both ladies smiled.

“Amaka.” they said with a purr. I could tell they were both devoured by lust right now, but I did not have the energy.

“I am sorry I didn’t mean to disturb you. I can come back later.” I replied. Ah Toy held her hand up to stop me from moving.

“No you’re fine, what’s the matter?” she asked. I looked between both of them for a moment, unsure of what all I should say. But with Nellie here there was no trust. I couldn’t speak in front of her. I just smiled.

“I just wanted to thank you for the dresses.” I replied. Ah Toy looked at my face and we both knew I had come here for something else, but she nodded, not pressing me.

“Of course, I felt they would be lovely for midnight outings to places where all are accepted.” she said ominously. Oh my God she knows about Hong and my plan to go to this place of his at Barbary Coast. I was stunned as she grinned. “Also, meet Hong at the rice shop an hour before, he said you’d know what he meant. But don’t get caught.”

I was more stunned that she’d actually pass on that message, but I just nodded.

“Thank you… Nellie.”

Nellie smiled and kissed Ah Toy’s shoulder.

“Amaka.” she said and turned and left the room. Great, so I couldn’t talk to her. I can’t talk to anyone here. But maybe that’s for the best. I would need to handle these two tongs the only way I knew how. I couldn’t forget what Ah Toy had taught me. I needed to use my body to my advantage and I will do so, for my tong.

[astoldbyaja]

The Blossom surrounded by Fire - Ch. 1 (Warrior AU- HBO MAX)

Amaka, is an African American woman with cosmetically altered ears due to her past ownership. Her journey has led her to Chinatown in San Francisco where she is now under the guardianship of Wang Chao. As Amaka tries to remain invisible, helping any ill residents with her healing knowledge, she slowly becomes drawn in to the dangerous world of the tongs. Seeing as she is a black face in a town of yellow, she is powerless to the demands of tong leaders and their lieutenants. They use her for their own gain, however calm and collective Long Zii lieutenant, Li Yong, sees more than just a body, and sees into her heart. But how can he claim his blossom when she is surrounded by nothing but fire?

MDNI, +18 , smut, SA, 1800 period story, racial slurs, etc.

-------------------------------------

I never really thought about my future, because for the negro the future was death if you came across the wrong person. Everyone is the wrong person. I was constantly waiting for death to come either by sickness, hanging, or something more sinister.

I didn’t know where my path was going to take me, but one thing for sure, it was going to be one hell of a crazy ride on my way to hell that was for sure.

My eyes slowly crept open as I could smell fish. I was on my back which brought me some comfort. Because of my ears, I could never stay on my side for too long. I sat up slowly and gently scratched my curly mane. I knew he wouldn’t allow me to sleep in, not while there was work to be done. I removed the blankets from my body and got up. Sliding the door open, I was looking at the nicely dressed back of Wang Chao.

Upon my unexpected arrival to San Francisco, our paths crossed and although we didn’t trust each other then, my ability to speak Cantonese and other languages made me useful to him as a translator for business with others. Also my willingness to help the sick with my knowledge of medicine. I entered the room and moved over to him giving a soft smile as he glanced at me.

“Good morning.” he said with a gentle smile, and I leaned forward and kissed his cheek.

“Good morning.” I said and he immediately raised a bowl of fish and rice. I looked up at him and nodded my thanks and took it.

“How did you sleep last night?” I asked picking up a pair of chop sticks and using it to eat. He sighed now raising his own bowl to eat.

“As good as any with one eye open as usual. How about you?” he asked. I shrugged some.

“I slept okay… I am pretty sure I lied on my side for a bit too long.” I replied. Chao nodded observing the side of my head. Slowly he raised his hand to move the side of my hair off my shoulder. I was still as he exposed my pointed ear.

“They’re still sensitive.” he noted. I nodded.

“They may be like this forever. I don’t know what he was thinking when he did this.” I replied my mind drifting back to that horrible night. I remember a violent storm had hit and it was the perfect time to do what he did. No one could hear my screams of sheer agony. I wanted to die that night. I hadn’t realized I was looking out into the empty space beside my guardian, until his hand gently came to my cheek.

“Hey. Don’t do that to yourself. Don’t put yourself back in that state of pain. You are safe here with me.” he said. I couldn’t help but grin.

“You are a black-market salesman who also sells men that come off the boats to different tongs. How am I safe?” I teased. He gave a mild grimace.

“Well, you know how to ruin a mood.” he said, and I chuckled some before looking down some in thought.

“People are starting to talk. They know we are… associates.” I replied. He nodded.

“Well, what do you expect, a colored woman with pointy ears is walking about Chinatown without a care in the world.” he said. I gave him a stunned look.

“Without a care in the world? Hardly. That’s a duck’s privilege.” I reminded and he nodded bringing a small cup to his lips.

“Very much so.” he said swallowing and then looking down at me. “Since everyone is whispering about you, those whispers have been slipping their way into different tongs.”

I could hear the warning in his voice.

“Which tongs?” I asked.

“All of them. At first no one batted an eye, but now that you’ve been helping the Chinese with their fevers and other sicknesses, it’s only a matter of time before their leaders call on you for services.” he said. Hop Wei, Long Zii, Fung Hai, Suey Sing… violent gangs who are in the opium trade. I had a lot to learn once Chao decided to take me in. He only told me the names of the leaders, but I had never seen them face to face. When I would walk about with him, he shielded me from the eyes of those he knew were dangerous.

I didn’t care about the gangs. I just wanted to help those who needed it. I have seen a lot over the years and one thing I knew: if you are not white, you do not matter to the world. With what I knew, I wanted to help people anyway I could.

Chao with his connections, delivered to me the ingredients and supplies I needed to create my herbs and medicines.

“Then let them call on me. If someone is sick, I will help them.” I replied turning from them. However, his hand caught my forearm firmly and I looked up at him. The seriousness in his eyes made me somewhat worried.

“Amaka… the reason why I am an independent contractor is because being alone keeps me safe. My loyalties are to myself and helps me survive. You, being a good healer, is a good skill. It will help you survive. But sadly, you not being Chinese means you can easily be discarded and forgotten in this town if you catch the attention of the wrong people.” he said. I winced at his words and looked away some.

“It almost saddens me to know I don’t have your loyalty. But I guess after everything you have done for me so far; I will only take what I can get.” I said softly. He shook his head and planned to say something, even going so far as to put his hand on my cheek, but I shook my head. “The day is starting. We both have jobs to do.”

He sighed and nodded.

“You are right. I will open the shop.” he said. I nodded and sat my finished bowl of food down on the counter.

“I will get dressed. I need to check on a few families.” I replied and we both parted. I cleaned my face and pulled the top half of my hair back and pinned it down with a large black clip that Chao had gotten for me. The bottom half remained down and covered my ears. I’ve been called a demon before, and my ears have put me in danger many times before. It was best to keep them covered. I wore a faded white dress with red flowers over the chest hem. It was tight around the bust area, as my bust was big, but I wouldn’t complain. It wasn’t anything too nice, but showed I wasn’t a threat either. Chao had found many dresses for me to wear upon him taking me in. He even gave me a small satchel to carry my medicine and journal in. I wrote down symptoms and medicines to help said symptoms. I slid on a pair of black boots and headed out through the market area where Chao had most of his weapons. When he saw me approach, he looked me over before looking confused.

“You’re going to wear that dress? That’s your nice gown I got you for when we go to meet Ah Toy tonight.” he said. This woman is a brothel owner who Chao had spoken to a lot apparently. He wanted me to meet her as insurance in case anything happened to him, then I could go to her for help. However, this is the first time I am hearing that I was to meet her tonight.

“You tell me this now?” I asked. He scoffed.

“It’s not like you had plans tonight.” he said. Touché. Chao had the luxury of walking about Chinatown without being bothered. I did not have this luxury unless I was with him and that was very rare since he was usually doing business with the tongs. If he had a new customer who spoke a different language then I would help, but other than that and helping those who sought me out for my help, I remained inside, hidden away as to not make anyone uncomfortable.

“Do you really think this dress will help me blend in at a brothel?” I asked. He looked me over.

“In a room full of yellow, you will always stand out.” he said. I couldn’t help but touch my cheek at his words knowing them to be true. “But now that I think about it, you can’t wear that dress either. If you’re going to be at my side, then you’ll need something far better.”

I smiled and nodded.

“You’re the boss.” I replied stepping closer to him and pecking his lips. “I will be quick.” He nodded.

“You got your knife?” he asked, and I reached into my back and pulled out the black handled blade and showed it to him.

“I have my knife.” I replied. He nodded with approval, moving to hand me the brown hooded topcoat. I began to put it on and place the hood over my head. Slowly he took my hands in his and I could see the look of worry in his dark eyes.

“Please be careful.” he said. I smiled and nodded before moving through the front of the store where multiple chickens cawed loudly and out into the town I went.

[astoldbyaja]

The Blossom surrounded by Fire - Ch. 16 (Warrior AU- HBO MAX)

The next morning, as promised, I was on my way to Ah Toy’s brothel. I was in a brown button up shirt and a faded brown skirt with the cloak over me, the hood over my head enough to cover my ears. Luckily it wasn’t glamorous or sparkly. It was actually bland and tattered which would be good for me. As I approached the front of the brothel, I noticed a rather intimidating police man standing in the front speaking to Ah Toy. She didn’t seem stiff or cautious, but more professional as if this man was a businessman. He had a thick beard and matching brown hair. As I approached, Ah Toy looked at me and her eyes sparkled.

“And here she is. Officer O’Hara, Amaka.” she introduced. A cop is dangerous. Always. He looked at me with an incredulous look.

“This is who I’m escorting?” he asked, and Ah Toy nodded once. He’s Irish.

“Amaka is a very important member of Chinatown. I wouldn’t trust any other cop with this task, and as always, I am grateful for your help.” she said nodding at me and motioning to the cop. I assumed she wanted me to give the man the red envelop. I reached into the pocket of the cloak and pulled out the red envelop and slowly handed it to him. He had no issues taking the envelop and glancing inside before tucking it away.

“Right then. Shall we be on our way then?” he asked. Ah Toy looked at me.

“Amaka, the directions are in the envelope. Since you cannot read, Officer O’Hara will read it and escort you to my friend and then bring you back.” she said. I nodded and handed the officer the address. I had read the address, but he didn’t need to know I could read. Officer O’Hara took the paper and read it before sighing.

“We will be quick. Let’s go.” he said, and I glanced at Ah Toy who just smiled at me and nodded.

“You are in great hands. You can… trust Officer O’Hara.” she said letting her eyes cut to the man. I heard the hesitance in her voice, but nodded all the same and the two of us began to walk. I didn’t walk too close or too far from him, and I made sure to keep behind him, so he didn’t think I was trying to lead him. The streets were busy as usual.

“So, the brothel owner says you have a… deformity that makes you unable to walk alone in town.” he said. He didn’t sound angry to talk to me. If anything, he seemed liked he was just trying to make small talk. I glanced up at him and nodded.

“Yes. I don’t want to scare nobody.” I said with a hit of slang in my voice. I had to change the tone and how I spoke to ensure I didn’t sound too intelligent. He nodded and glanced at me some more.

“That why you wear that hood?” he asked. I nodded.

“Yes sir.” I replied. He nodded looking me over some.

“You got a growth or something?” he asked lowly. I looked at him surprised and he cleared his throat.

“Sorry, didn’t mean to be rude.” he said. I blinked rapidly not expecting to be apologized to.

“I got bad lookin’ ears. I used to have long hair to cover it, but it was cut off by some bad people.” I replied. He looked at me more curious now, but I just continued to look around at all the people. The sea of yellow faces were now fading to white.

Men and women in nice fancy suits and dresses walked about with black servants in suits to show their status. This world wasn’t safe for me or for those that looked like me.

“So you stay in Chinatown? Why? Why not stay with the other colored on the other side of town?” he questioned. I couldn’t tell him a thing about my past.

“Never thought about it.” I said. As we walked, I noticed we were passing a large bar the was called The Banshee. Standing in the doorway was a large blonde with a judgmental look in his deep blue eyes. His sweaty faded shirt was opened a bit at the top with suspenders connected to his brown pants. His eyes dug into me and I looked down immediately forgetting to note that Officer O’Hara was laughing at me. I made a glance back noticing the stranger’s eyes followed me. I quickly looked away.

“Never thought about it! A colored living amongst the Chinese and not with her own. You must not be from here.” he said.

“I ain’t from nowhere.” I said lowly. Now the eyes that watched me made me feel afraid. The stares here were different than the stares in Chinatown. The eyes of the ducks wanted to know who I was and who my master was. But we made it to the street from the paper. We were now at a flower shop. I tilted my head and looked up the cop who just looked down at me.

“This is your stop. Go on in. I’ll be out here.” he said. I nodded and entered already feeling nervous of the white women who immediately saw me and looked disgusted. I just looked down.

“Hey girl. What are you doing here?” an old man from behind the front counter snaps before coughing some. I took short steps toward the counter, being watched heavily by the women.

“Hello sir. I was sent here by Ah Toy to deliver medicine.” I said looking at him a respectful smile. His eyes popped.

“Oh yes yes! She said you would be coming by with the herbs!” he said, and I nodded and handed him the envelope. He sighed happily holding it to his chest. Ah Toy gave no information on who need the medicine, so I had to assume it was him. The old man told me to wait, and I did. I looked around at the many different flowers that were here. They were pretty. A woman was walking toward the spot I was walking in, so I stepped back so she could take my place. The man returned with the same envelope and handed it back to me.

“Payment for my medicine.” he said. I bowed and nodded before exiting the shop. Officer O’Hara was still in the spot he was at. When he looked at me, I nodded, and he did the same and we began to walk again.

“So… why did you agree to do this?” I asked. The large man glanced at me.

“What?” he asked.

“Walk me to that store for Ah Toy?” I asked. He looked ahead with a steely look.

“Ah Toy and I have a good work relationship. She’s paying me quite well to basically walk back and forth. Now why she wants you protect you ain’t none of my business.” he said. But now his walk began to slow, and he finally turned to me.

“I know I’m being forward, but can I see this deformity? Ah Toy said it was super important that no one sees the top of your head, but I need to see what I’m dealing with.” he said. I wasn’t too taken back by his request and since he was walking me, I guess I could show him. I looked around at the still busy street.

“Okay, but we’d have to go somewhere private.” I said. He nodded and pointed toward a building’s alleyway. We moved over to the alley and to the other side until we were at the other end and now, we were completely alone. I didn’t like this, but I turned to look at the officer who was just standing there waiting. He didn’t look like he planned to attack me. I removed my hood and felt the air against my face and now the man’s eyes popped.

“Sweet mother of Jesus.” he said leaning down to look closely at me. I just looked down as his face moved from the left to the right to look at each side. I finally pulled my hood back on.

“I must return.” I said walking back through the alley. Officer O’Hara followed.

“How’d your ears get like that? Is that an African thing?” he questioned. I shook my head.

“No. I am the victim of a mad man.” I said quietly. I slowed my walking so the offer could lead me from the alley way.

“Officer! Officer!” a woman’s voice cuts through the air. I stiffen and look up to see a white woman approaching with a shorter Asian man behind her. The woman was polished with yellow hair pinned up. She had a nice white dressed decorated with flowers. The man following her had white with a black tie and black suit. Around his body was a bag and on his head with a black hat. Officer O’Hara stood in front of me.

“Mrs. Blake, what can I do for you?” he asked. The woman was about to speak when she saw me.

“Oh, I’m sorry am I interrupting business?” she asked.

“Oh no ma’am, just helping this woman get to her family.” he lied. I just looked down some trying not to bring attention to myself. The man who followed her looked at me with a deep gaze. I couldn’t help but smile at how cute he actually looked. The woman stumbled over her words a bit.

“Officer, two men are yelling in the square. They seem drunk and are fighting, please break it up before someone really gets hurt.” She pled before turning and hurrying back down the street. The man behind her looked at me for a moment before quickly following after her. Officer O’Hara groaned heavily and looked at me before we both noticed a crowd up ahead was forming. A fight was taking place. He then grabbed my forearm and quickly moved over toward the large building we passed by earlier. He swung the door opened and walked me inside. It was a large bar that was empty it seemed like. The bartender looked at us both before his eyes popped.

“What the hell!” he asked. He’s Irish too. Officer O’Hara looked at him.

“I need this woman to stay right here, unmolested you got that!” he snapped. The bartender scoffed.

“She can’t stay here, she’s a nigga!” he snapped. I tensed and looked at the Officer who just looked at me giving a quick smile before looking at the man.

“You tell Leary, I will pay for her stay. I’ll be just a moment!” he said quickly before looking at me. I shook my head trying to hold his arm, but he placed his hands on my shoulder and just moved me over to the closest wall. “Just stand right here. I will come back.”

I merely whimpered in reply, shaking already as he just left out the door. I was panted heavily and kept my back pressed to the wall. This was a racist bar, an Irish racist bar!

“What’s this then?” a thick voice asked with the sound of heavy footsteps.

“Fuckin’ O’Hara came in and left her here. He said he’ll pay. Must be a prisoner or something.” the bartender answered. Now I slowly turned to look at the large blonde man from before shaking my head to deny the other man’s accusation. His eyes were heavy and dark on me as he began to walk toward me. I kept my back to the wall and just slid away from him, still shaking. Now the man stopped and looked at me with a mildly soft gaze upon seeing my fear. He held his hands up to me.

“Woah there take a breath.” he said lowly. I just remained against the wall; my face now wet with tears as they slid down my cheeks. “What’s your name?” I sniffled some and swallowed lightly.

“Amaka.” I said softly, and his eyes squinted some as he looked me over.

“Amaka. I’m Dylan Leary.” he said lowly and continued to look me over. “You a prisoner?” I shook my head.

“No sir.” I replied. He nodded slowly taking another step closer to me. I could smell the sweat from his body he was getting so close.

“Why you with the cop?” he asked. I just looked down some.

“He was walking me home to my family.” I spoke. He seemed to be thinking some.

“You know this is an Irish bar… coloreds know not to come in here.” he said, and I just looked down trying my best not to stare too long.

“Yes sir.” I replied quickly and obediently. He seemed to visibly tense as I answered him.

“I may be a white man, but I ain’t like none of those slave masters out there in the south. I’m a man, you’re a woman.” he said firmly. I looked up at him finally. Yes, it’s easy for him to say. He’s white and a man.

“You are white, I am colored.” I said gently hoping my words didn’t offend him. The man’s eyes locked on me some more before turning and moving over toward a table.

“Come take a seat, Amaka. You can try and convince me on why I shouldn’t beat O’Hara’s face in for dropping you here of all places.” he said. Both the bartender and I looked shocked and even looked at each other and then back at the man.

"But Leary-”

“And no, one’ll bother her. Her people were dragged here against their will with no way to get back home, you think she wants to be here!” he snapped sitting down in a chair. Finally, he looked back at me and held his hand out to the chair across from him. What was this trick he was playing at? I didn’t know, but I knew not to disobey either. Slowly I pressed off the wall and walked over toward him, making sure to keep my hood over my head.

[astoldbyaja]

The Blossom surrounded by Fire - Ch. 39 (Warrior AU- HBO MAX)

I was completely frozen as I watched bodies flying all over the place, mostly the Irish. Li Yong spun rapidly kicking an Irish man in the head so hard his neck broke. Zing’s movements were fast and sharp as his fists were slamming into a man’s chest. That same man tried to swing a wooden club, but Zing’s arm came up in a tight fist breaking the blow. His eyes darkened as he began to ram his fists numerous times into the man’s face. Bolo was swinging his hatchet with such precision that I could hardly keep up with his movements. His hatchet was tasting blood that was for sure. It was only a matter of time until one of the Irish saw me and made a dash for me.

I yelped lightly and began to run behind one of the beds only for Li Yong to run up and block his body from me landing a blow to his neck. He looked at me with strength and violence in his dark orbs and I stared at my lover’s face feeling the heat of fear rise in me.

All nine men were on the ground, Li Yong was holding the leader’s head between his arms.

“Who… sent… you!” he yelled in broken English. Bolo and Zing were standing on either side with glares of their own. The Irish man spit at their feet.

“Fuck you you filthy chi- *snap*” My body jerked some at the sight of Li Yong snapping the man’s neck. I covered my mouth tears streaming in my eyes at the sight. The men looked down at the bodies for a moment, but Li Yong turned to me with worry in his eyes. He approached me immediately and I made an attempt to give him back his jacket, but he ignored it, embracing me hard.

“Are you hurt?” he asked, and I shook my head wrapping my arms around him hard and crying into his shoulder.

“The fuck is this!”

We turned to see Mai Ling and Father Jun fuming and standing there with a few tong members. I noticed Zing approaching with a smirk as his shoulder just passive aggressively hit Li Yong’s shoulder as he passed. Li Yong glared at his shoulder and then the tong leader as he passed us.

“Oh just the Fung Hai saving your asses again, Mai Ling.” he said now walking past everyone. “It seems the Long Zii owes the Fung Hai again.”

Bolo approached Father Jun with a nod.

“Irish came. We were worried they’d try and hurt other Chinese so we stepped up and took em out.” he said. Father Jun stiffened and I looked at Bolo who looked at me knowing he just gave us all the perfect lie. Father Jun looked at me pointing.

“You… is this true?” he asked. I winced and nodded.

“Yes sir. I was taking care of the men when they showed up with weapons. Obviously here to harm me and the Chinese who were resting here.” I replied. Father Jun stiffened and looked at Mai Ling who just looked at me and Li Yong before looking at the elder tong leader.

“Well it was nice we could all come together in solidarity to stop a common enemy.” she said and Father Jun looked at the dead Irishmen.

“It would appear so. We’ll leave you to take care of clean up.” he said to Mai Ling before turning and walking away with his men.

On the carriage ride back, all was silent. None of us said a word as Mai Ling looked at both of us.

“What happened?” she asked firmly. I sighed.

“The Irishmen came and asked me to leave with the men… it’s not uncommon for white men to go looking for colored girls to harass and rape knowing we can’t defend ourselves.” I said softly and Mai Ling looked at me as well as Li Yong with a wince. Mai Ling looked at Li Yong.

“Is this true?” she asked. Li Yong inhaled.

“Zhao had come to me telling me some Irish were here. I didn’t care why they were here; I just know they had weapons and was deciding to threaten a member of our tong.” he said. She stiffened.

“Did you get any information from them? They could be men belonging to that Irishman Leary.” she said. Li Yong nodded.

“I tried and he didn’t have anything to say.” he said collectively. Mai Ling looked between us both and then sighed and looked away.

“We don’t need any issues from the whites especially the Irishmen. Who knows if they told people where they were going.” she said.

“They were obviously drunk or had a death wish.” Li Yong countered. “The police will not know they were missing and whoever comes to look for them, will meet the same fate. I will let no one hurt this tong.”

Mai Ling looked at him and looked away.

“As long as their bodies are disposed of and never found we will forget this night ever happened” she said and looked away. Li Yong and I both bowed our heads. As the carriage came back into our territory I noticed a shift in the neighborhood. I couldn’t put my finger on it. As we stopped outside of Mai Ling’s home, we all noticed that there were no men standing guard. Li Yong frowned and was the first to move from the carriage. The men who were following the behind the carriage approached their leader and Mai Ling and I got out of the carriage.

“Something isn’t right.” Mai Ling said, and Li Yong took charge moving through the home with everyone behind him. As we got inside, I tensed at the different bodies on the ground, their throats slit and blood pouring onto the ground. Mai Ling’s eyes widened as she separated from the group running down the hall. I feared there could be a threat still here.

“Mai Ling!” I called out running after her. We moved through the halls quickly, the sounds of the other’s feet behind us. Mail Ling rounded the corner into her bedroom and paused. I stood beside her and my eyes widened as we looked into the bedroom.

Lying against the bedframe was a limp, dead Long Zii with a sword in his chest. Mai Ling approached gently, her body shaking eyes watering at the sight of her dead husband. Li Yong was now beside me looking in with shock on his face. I looked at his eyes trying to figure out if this was there plan. Li Yong would not look at my however, his body stiff his face hiding his true feelings. I looked at Mai Ling who looked at the sword in Long Zii’s body.

“I’ve seen this blade before… it belongs to the Hop Wei.” she said her voice trembling. I noticed the tears streaming down her face. She was a good actress. She gently moved her hands to caress her dead husband’s face, going so far as to lean her forehead against his in sadness.

After some silence she slowly leaned up, her eyes revealing a dark gaze as she looked at us.

“This is war.” she said venomously.

I tensed at her words looking down wondering what all this would mean.

Normal POV

A storm had rolled in over the town and Butch just leaned his body against the hotel window letting out a puff of cigar smoke. He always fancied storms.

“So what if the Irish aren’t able to get the girl back…” Dodger asked as he was cleaning his knives. Butch blew a low stream of smoke from his nose.

“If they don’t the Irish will get pissed and go after the Chinese.” he said.

“Leaving the girl unprotected and up for grabs.” Roman said as he was admiring his Winchester rifle. Butch nodded.

“How do we know that Irish buck isn’t going to come after us in retaliation if his men don’t get the job done?” Tomas asked. Butch smirked.

“If he comes after us we’ll put him in the ground like all the rest. Either way we sit back and watch Chinatown burn.” he said.

“Can we at least gamble while we’re here?” Dodger asked. Butch thought about the question for a bit. Many whites and Irishmen did like to go gamble in Chinatown, not to mention there’s a brothel there as well. He smirked at the opportunities and looked at his boys.

“Yeah, I think that’ll be just fine.” he said.

Amaka’s POV

I was pacing gently in Li Yong’s home as he asked me to come over.

“What does this mean?” I asked watching him peal his coat off and place it on a wooden coat rack.

“It means many Hop Wei will die.” he said. I winced and looked away in fear of the carnage that was to come.

“How did Mai Ling do it? Who did she hire to kill her husband while we were at the fight?” I asked. I was sure she confided in him since they were both hell bent on getting rid of Long Zii. It was obvious she hired an assassin to come and kill the man and the other warriors here. I watched Li Yong unbutton his sleeves.

“Mai Ling had a different method of killing Long Zii. She does not know who killed her husband… because this was not her doing.” he said now moving to unbutton his shirt, his eyes looming up to look at me. “It was mine.”

My eyes widened at his words, and I looked him over as he was only in his pants having removed his shoes earlier. I took a step closer.

“What?” I whispered some. “I do not understand.” Li Yong acted alone. Why would he keep Mai Ling out of the loop like this? Weren’t they working together to take down Long Zii? Why would he do this alone? Why would he have his own men killed? Li Yong just watched me as he knew the many different thoughts were filling my mind. He suddenly tugged at the strings of his pants then dropped them. I gave a soft gasp staring at the painfully aching erection that was pointing at me.

Li Yong slowly approached, his dark lustful eyes staring deep into me.

“You do not have to worry about Long Zii ever whoring you out to anyone anymore.” he said. I wasn’t sure if I was afraid or confused by the deep look of desire in his tone. He merely raised his hand and rested it on my cheek. “I am going to take care of everything.”

My eyes stared at him wondering what he meant before his mouth came up and claimed my own in a heated kiss.

----------

Author's Notes

Alright all chapters have been uploaded and there will be more to come!

I wonder who Li Yong got to kill Long Zii... could be anyone!! (Literally it really could be anyone)

[astoldbyaja]

The Blossom surrounded by Fire - Ch. 38 (Warrior AU- HBO MAX)

I sat beside Li Yong and the two of us were seated before the railing where Mai Ling and the elders were sitting above us. We gave each other warm smiles as the heavy drumming began to slowly fade. The same man announced the event said a few words discussing honor and entertainment for those of Chinatown.

He then announced the first two fighters to start off this match. The first were two men: one from the Three Brothers and the other Suey Sing. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t too excited about the first match, but it never hurts to start small.

The two faced each other, bowed, then made poses before giving sharp yells and striking at each other. People were cheering and clapping. I gasped as the men moved with great speed striking at each other with precision. My eyes were moving all over the ring following the men’s movements all over the place. Li Yong smiled at the many different faces I made. These men were quite skilled. After one quick blow to the head, the Suey Sing member was out cold. The announcer raised the Three Brother’s fighter’s arm and the man roared in victory at the applauding crowd. I looked at Li Yong who just patted the top of my leg.

Next was Jiang Yao against a member of the Hop Wei. We looked over at the row where Kong Pak was sitting, and he just gave prideful smile to the ring. I glanced over at the Hop Wei tong watching as the many men in back clapped for their brother in arms. Bolo was sitting beside Young Jun, Ah Sahm opposite him.

The hatchet man finally looked my way and I quickly looked away. These men have already been glaring at each other violently. I did not want to meet one of their stares. The two men faced each other, bowed then prepared and then once more the fighting continued. This went on and eventually, it all was the same. Blood was slowly staining the ring, and I found myself looking all over the place to gauge everyone else’ reaction. The crowd was nothing new. I could see Ah Toy talking with Chao while pointing sometimes at a different fighter.

Young Jun and Ah Sahm were talking and laughing about something while Bolo just rolled his eyes. I then glanced over at the Fung Hai box to see Zing just sitting there, his arms crossed looking ever so unimpressed. He looked toward me and smirked, giving me a wink which only made me roll my eyes. A member of our tong was going up against a member of the Three Brothers. Once more my eyes danced around the ring as I followed the men’s different jumping and kicking and punching moves.

I glanced at Li Yong noticing he was glaring above the fighting. I followed his eyes to a glaring Bolo before his eyes moved to the Fung Hai section and now, he was glaring at Zing.

It was like they were having their own 3-man fight but only with their eyes. If they continued to show aggression, I feared that once the peace dissolved the tongs would be going at each other harder tomorrow.

Finally, a member of the Fung Hai was going up against Hong.

My eyes flexed and my attention was brought back to the fighting. Hong just smiled at his opponent who was quite the large man, tattoos starting from the top of his bald head and going down his exposed chest. My chest tightened. How could Hong face off against a man twice his size. Once the fight began, the Fung Hai moved to throw a punch, but Hong dodged it and landed a fast blow to the man’s neck.

The move was so quick I almost didn’t know if I saw what I saw. The large man choked and fell to his knees gripping his throat. Hong wasted no time in spinning fast and kicking him in the head. The man was out cold, landing flat on his face. Hong blinked and shrugged. That was the quickest of the fights I have ever seen. I found myself standing on my feet and clapping quickly. Hong looked around the once shocked, and now roaring crowd, smiling and bowing and waving at people. When he looked higher up the row and saw me, he pointe and waved right at me. I just smiled big.

He was very impressive. He wasn’t even sweating. His opponent was dragged off and I looked over at Zing to see him scowling at the quick match, and I couldn’t help but smirk in reply as I sat down and looked at Li Yong to see him smiling as if pleased. Hop Wei men were definitely cheering and throwing their fists to the ceiling in celebration. After ten more matches, possibly ten I had lost count, there was a brief intermission which gave everyone enough time to piss and eat and talk and place more bets before the finals began.

Before I knew it, Li Yong tapped my shoulder and directed me to Chao who was waiving me over from the bottom of the stands. I stood up and walked over Li Yong and down the steps before at the bottom. This was the perfect time to stretch my legs. As I got closer to Chao, he took my hand to lean into me.

“Are you having fun?” he asked. I chuckled.

“This is a very exciting tournament. Now if only my…” I trailed off as I looked up at Li Yong then Zing then Bolo. I knew what Li Yong meant to me but the other two,” they could just act like the other didn’t exist for one day then I could really enjoy myself.”

Chao nodded.

“You could cut the tension with a knife. Now don’t be mad, but Ah Toy and I were betting on who would break and start a fight.” he said. My jaw dropped in shock before giving a gentle scowl.

“Chao… who did you bet on?” I asked. He laughed now.

“Hot headed Bolo of course. Zing and Li Yong have restraint… well a little more than that hot head.” he said. I shook my head and looked up at him.

“How do I make them stop?” I asked. He shook his head and shrugged.

“Stop fucking them?” he asked. I gave him a look.

“You think Zing would accept that or my tong would stop using me to gain favor?” I asked. Chao nodded.

“Fair enough. You have an advantage, use it.” he said. Before I could reply, a member of Jiang Yao approached and bowed.

“Healer Amaka, Kong Pak would be in your debt if you could treat some his men’s wounds.” he said. I looked at him and nodded.

“Of course,” I replied before smiling at Chao. “Make sure they don’t try and anything while I am gone.” Chao gave a dry laugh.

“As if they’ll listen to me. Now go.” he said, and I laughed and turned following the man down a hall on the opposite side of ring. My tong seemed far now from me. I was led to a much smaller room with cots and people were definitely on them. I was led over to the cots where Jiang Yao sat. I asked if they wanted my assistance and they nodded immediately, and I reached under my dress where I had my satchel on me and began my work disinfecting and sewing up cuts.

It seemed there were not many healers here, because now men from other tongs asked me to help, well they demanded I help. Whatever to get them out the room. I did what I could for them. Finally, there was one more left, Zhao, and I smiled as I finished patching the cut on his arm.

“You fought well. Your wound will heal if you just keep it clean. If somehow you have any problems after today don’t hesitate to stop by my home.” I replied. The man nodded before looking across the room and I did as well to see a man standing there. He must have come in through the other hall on the opposite side of the room. We both tensed as we realized this was not a Chinese man or even a cop. It was just a white man glaring at us, mostly me. Something was not right.  Zhao tried to move in front of me, but slowly another man entered the room, and then another, and then another. I quickly took hold of the back of Zhao’s arm whispering for him to go.

“Find Li Yong.” I muttered and Zhao nodded before quickly hurrying down the hall. I made a move to follow, before one of the men pointed at me, a large mallet in his hands.

“Don’t you move now!” he snapped, and I froze. He’s Irish. What the hell? More men were coming in and I counted nine men, all of them glaring at me.

“H-have I done something wrong?” I asked my voice trembling some. The men now began to smile wickedly, enjoying my fear.

“You got some people looking for you. Now if you want to be a good little coon and come without a fuss, we won’t hurt you.” The man threatened and I swallowed some looking at the ground for a second. I knew a lynch mob when I saw one. Did these men know about what I do for the Chinese and wanted to do all they could to beat them down, by killing me. The same man slowly held something up and my stomach knotted up hard. It was a mask, but not just any mask. It was a mask I had been forced to wear when I was being bought and sold.

I thought I would pee on myself now from the horrible thoughts that were seeping into my mind.

“You just walk over here slow and there won’t be any trouble.” The man said faking calmness, but the other men around him were tense, fingers itching to do something.

Normal POV

Li Yong was sitting calmly in his seat, glancing back at Mai Ling as she spoke with the elders then looking around the room just watching, learning. The intermission was already ending, and the next round of fighters was already in the ring. Li Yong noticed Chao was back beside Ah Toy and felt something itch at the back of his mind. His brows pushed together in curiosity. If he was there, then Amaka should have already returned to her seat. He looked across the room noticing Zing was where he was supposed to be and so was Bolo. The two were ready for another staring showdown to assert how lethal they were, but when Li Yong was looking around at different spots in the room, it was made clear that something was not right. He looked around a bit more this time with a bit more anxiety as he realized he didn’t see his healer anywhere.

Zhao was suddenly jogging over to the stands, approaching him quickly. Li Yong leaned into him looking down with a frown as his second in command whispered in his ear. The words he spoke, and the direction he pointed at, awoken something in him and he immediately rose from his chair. Mai Ling looked at her lieutenant curiously, thinking this was the first he had stood up during this event. Li Yong looked across the room glaring at Zing then looking on the opposite side to Bolo. The two tong members saw a challenge in his eyes and were ready to act, thinking the Long Zii was ready to break the treaty. They got up immediately and began to move from their boxes. Li Yong then patted Zhao’s shoulder giving a calm smile.

“I will handle it. Stay here.” he said shooting Mai Ling a comforting smile before moving down the steps with his hands behind his back, and his smile falling immediately from his face. As he walked toward the hall with a bit more speed, Zing and Bolo were glaring at each other as they made their way to him.

“Come.” he commanded in a dangerously low tone, and the two followed thinking they were going to go to a more secluded area to fight.

Amaka’s POV

Everything around me seemed to grow quiet as I remembered hearing rumors that slavery was abolished. Whether it was true or not, a relief had spread through many of us at the thought of leaving this retched place. When would they let us go? When would they sign our papers giving us our freedom?

When the guns started going off and my master fell, I managed to get the keys off his dead field hand and unlock my shackles. I freed myself and gave the keys to the other slaves before escaping. I ran as far as the Lord would allow me to go before stopping in a wooded area. I removed that mask from my face and felt the warmth of the sun on my face. This was all before the men who robbed my master rounded us back up and dropped us off in different areas.

“I’m not gonna tell you again, girl, get your fucking arse over here!” the man spoke, finally losing patience. I was too busy staring at the mask as I thought of this. I then slowly looked up at the man. They want to take me back to him. He’s here in town and he’s coming for me.

“You’ll have to kill me first.” I said dryly. The man seemed stunned by my words before frowning and the men began to approach me, but suddenly stopped.

“What the fuck is this!” I hear Bolo, and I look around with relief noticing Li Yong was beside me, Zing was on his right, and Bolo was on his left, all three men looking at the group of Irish. Zing just looked calmly at the man who spoke, yet behind that calm was a darkness stirring.

“You slanted eye chinks better get on before we bash your brains in! If you know what’s good for ya!” The man threatened and now all the men began to remove mallets and hammers and even knives. Li Yong slowly looked at me and I looked at him, the raw emotion in his eyes was evident and I could tell he was asking me what was going on. I slowly looked at the group of men asking myself was I truly about to do what it was I was going to do.

“They want me to leave with them so that I may be taken back into slavery.” I said before looking at Li Yong.

“The fuck, this nigger can speak Chinese!” another Irish said shocked.

The look that slowly appeared on Li Yong’s face was terrifying as he now looked at Bolo slowly. Bolo looked at him and then looked back ahead puffing his chest out and removing his hatchet from beneath his suit. Li Yong then looked to the Fung Hai leader. Zing’s eyes were already dark since the moment he laid eyes on the Irish; his head tilted up some. He was looking at the man who had spoken to me the most, already making up his mind that he was going to be killed first. They didn’t need to speak. They were all I agreement about what must happen in this moment.

Li Yong now began to roll his neck and shoulders before removing his jacket and slowly holding it out to me. Oh, so this was what he meant earlier. I looked at it and then him, slowly taking hold of it, fear still evident on my face.

Now all three of my lovers took a step forward, getting in their own stances to prepare to fight. My heart was pounding hard in my chest as I held Li Yong’s coat to me. This was not happening. This was not happening! The led Irishman snarled.

“Alright, we’ll show you rice heads not to interfere with business that ain’t yours!” he said and now all nine men rushed for us.

“Kill them.” I said softly.

Author's Notes

Song I listened to for the tense scene starting with Amaka separating from Li Yong is called Train Station by Jeff Russo.

It's from the FX show Fargo Season 4.

I think it's the perfect song that builds up the end of this chapter before the big release!

Enjoy

[astoldbyaja]

The Blossom surrounded by Fire - Ch. 37 (Warrior AU- HBO MAX)

The carriage came to a slow stop and Mai Ling looked at me with firmness.

“You are about to experience quite a show. Are you excited?” she asked. At this moment I realized my heart is pounding hard in my chest as I nodded.

“A little, yes.” I replied and she smiled.

“Good. This is an event of pure entertainment. But know this, whichever tong breaks the peace of today will face brutal punishment. I know you wouldn’t break it… but just make sure your… paramours don’t break it either.” she said with a teasing stare. I groaned.

“I almost forgot they would be here.” I muttered. The door opened and Mai Ling scoffed still grinning.

“No, you didn’t.” she said and got out of the carriage. I grinned and followed behind her. Li Yong offered his hand and gave a smile before leaning into me.

“You look beautiful.” he said. I smiled at him wishing to press a kiss to his lips, but the sound of harsh rhythmic banging caught my attention.

We were on the side of the street, and I realized we were in the heart of an empty Chinatown. Mai Ling lead the way through the dark hall where now numerous people were selling different foods and items. Some were even gambling.

Our tong followed after its leader down a hall and through a room guarded by two large men. I could feel a hand take mine for a second and I looked at Li Yong. It’s dark and the perfect moment to show me some type of public affection without anyone being the wiser. I gave a gentle smile and relished this gesture before now were going down into a large open area. Many Chinese were at the bottom, talking and laughing.

In the middle of this room was a big square ring, like a boxing ring with box stands on the side for sitting. I looked up at the ceiling to see a ring of fire and red fabric hanging from the ceiling with Chinese markings on them. Our tong moved over toward the seats below a box stand and now it was just Mai Ling in front of Li Yong and I. She stopped as two familiar tongs approached us standing in their own corners. Zing and his men were on our left and Father Jun and the Hop Wei were on the right. Bolo and Young Jun stood behind his father.

The Hop Wei were in their suits, and the Fung Hai were dressed in dark kimonos and robes. Zing was in a black coat with a white-collar underneath. Everyone eyed each other. I looked at Bolo then looked at Zing. Mai Ling smiled wickedly.

“Father Jun. Zing.” she said with a curt bow of her head.

“Mai Ling. Zing.” Father Jun replied stiffly looking from her to him.

“Father Jun. Mai Ling… Amaka.” Zing said dryly but letting his tone shift to a more seductive yet malicious tone as his eyes fell on me. I stiffened and just looked down. Why did he have to include me! Out of the corner of my eye I saw Li Yong and Bolo give him a mild sneer. Mai Ling rolled her eyes before looking at everyone.

“I expect fair play today.” she replied. Father Jun nodded.

“I’ve always been a man of my word until agreements are broken.” he said looking at Mai Ling accusingly. She merely shrugged.

“I agree. Well gentlemen… enjoy the fight.” she said before looking at at Zing. “I look forward to being on top.”

With nothing else, she turned and began to walk over to her booth, the tong following. The three groups began to disperse all around and I made a move to turn, but noticed Li Yong was not moving. I looked at him curiously before noticing neither Bolo nor Zing moved from their spots as well. Each man was glaring at each other, their bodies still as if they were statues.

Zing smirked almost triumphantly as Bolo and Li Yong just glared at him before shooting each other a glare. The air was intense in this one spot, and I felt completely uncomfortable.

“Gentlemen… let us all be on our way to our seats so that we may enjoy this event?” I asked carefully looking between each man. I could feel the stiffness radiating off of my partner. His hands curling into fists and Bolo’s fingers twitched. He was itching to grab his hatchet. I could see the excitement shimmering in Zing’s eyes before he finally looked at me.

“Your dress… black? It’s definitely your color.” he said. I looked at him wondering what he was trying to do. He then tilted his head. “Is your body harness tight under there?” I gave a low squeak, not expecting him to say what he just said. I then looked at Li Yong.

“Amaka,” he asked steadily, “If I were to remove my jacket right now, would you be so kind as to hold it?”

What did that even mean! Bolo glared at him.

“Please break this peace so I can taste blood tonight.” He threatened.  Suddenly, a hand clapped down on Bolo’s shoulder making the tension break as he looked over his shoulder and coming up around him was…

“Hi Amaka!”

“Hong!” I said happily, and with relief, as he just walked in front of Bolo not even giving Li Yong’s confused look attention as he approached me. Now all three men’s eyes followed his form to me as he stood in front of me like a happy child.

“You came to see me fight?” he asked. My eyes popped now.

“You’re fighting!” I asked surprised and he nodded.

“Oh yeah. My official initiation is lasting a few rounds with some of these guys.” he said. I looked at him worriedly.

“But it could be so dangerous.” I said with worry. He grinned and winked at me.

“Don’t worry, danger is my middle name!” he gushed, and we both chuckled now. I realized Zing and Bolo were looking at us with twitching eyes, while Li Yong just looked at Hong perplexed at his personality.

 “I think that Chao guy was looking for you too.” he said, and I could feel him turn our bodies away. I was excited to see him as I wanted to show him my dress. But before I abandoned my attention from the three, I turned to my lovers with an innocent smile at first.

“Boys… behave yourselves!” I whispered harshly, glaring to all of them before smiling at Hong and letting him take me away. We were absorbed into the crowd.

“I figured whatever hostility is between those three, I’d get you out of their way for a bit.” he said. I nodded hoping he wasn’t lying about Chao being here then. I did want to see him.

“They are hostile over me. It seems my charms have made them all possessive over me.” I replied. He looked at me stunned.

“And you just keep getting more and more interesting.” he said. I grinned and nodded.

“That I do… Hong, I thought about what you said at the rice shop. I would like to go to this place with you.” I replied. His eyes sparkled with happiness.

“Really, that’s great! I figured you would, so I slipped the address into your pocket a few seconds ago. This way no one will see you taking paper from the Hop Wei and think we are conspiring. There’s a date and time on it.” he said looking around. I looked at him and then down at my dress stunned. I didn’t even feel his hand on me, but I nodded.

“I understand.” I replied. He patted my back.

“I have to get ready. Cheer me on?” he asked. I grinned and nodded.

“Yes.” I replied and he smiled and nodded and separated from me. I looked around as I was staring at the top hat of a familiar man. Chao turned to me, and his eyes popped as he looked me over.

“Amaka! You wore the dress.” he said, and we embraced. “My God you look beautiful.”

“I wanted to wear it just for you, hoping I would see you today. Thank you again for getting it for me.” I replied and he smiled down at me and nodded.

“You look happy.” he said placing his hand against my cheek for his thumb to gently graze my cheek. I leaned into his hold.

“Believe it or not, I am happy. My tong has been treating me well.” I replied. He nodded.

“Good. It makes me happy to know you’re thriving.” he said. He suddenly looked over my shoulder. “Bulls are here.” We turned and Chao wrapped his arm around my own and began to walk through the crowd toward two men, one I was familiar with.

“Sergeant O’Hara. Officer Lee. Welcome.” Chao said in English. I noticed his tone change right away. The two men looked at me, the younger one looked at me with a jerk of his head.

“What’s going on, Chao?” Bill asked and Chao shook his head

“Just some neighborhood entertainment. Let me introduce. Amaka. You know Sergeant O’Hara. With him is Officer Lee. This here is Amaka, she is a woman of medicine in Chinatown.” I nodded at them both respectfully.

“Officers.” I replied. Lee just stuttered a bit, but they both seemed to look at what I was wearing. A negress in a Chinese dress?

“M-ma’am.” Lee said tipping his hat before glancing at my ears. He then shut his eyes and looked down. “Forgive me I don’t mean to stare.” Chao and I smirked at each other before I shook my head.

“It’s alright, Officer. My ears are very different.” I replied. Chao chuckled and Bill all around and I could tell he looked uneasy.

“A lot of tongs here.” he noted. I just smiled up at Chao as he assured them everything was peaceful. I leaned back to glance toward the stairs and walking down it was Ah Toy. My eyes widened and I smiled as Lai, holding up the back of her dress, and Kei were with her and a few other girls. They were black and red, and their dresses were tight and hugged their bodies perfectly. Ah Toy immediately saw me and smiled. I excused myself from them and moved through the crowd. Once I was clear from the crowd, and close to Ah Toy held her arms out to me.

“Amaka, you look gorgeous!” she said. I embraced her gently as to not ruin her make up wrinkle her dress.

“This gorgeous woman stands before a goddess.” I replied and she smiled more before looking around the crowd. Lai gave me an excited wave and I returned it.

“Is everyone behaving?” she asked. I groaned facing the crowd as well.

“Ask me during the actual fighting.” I replied and she grinned. “Are you rooting for anyone to win, gambling even?” She scoffed.

“Never. During these fights someone may win, but there’s no true winning once tomorrow comes.” she said. Slowly I nodded.

“Yes, well I am offering my services to the wounded if anyone wishes me to.” I replied. She nodded.

“I’m sure the other tongs would appreciate it.” she said. Li Yong approached, calmly, jacket still on his body. He looked to Ah Toy and bowed to her and her company before looking at me.

“Amaka, I would like you to meet someone.” he said holding up his forearm to me. I looked at Ah Toy and excused myself before moving into Li Yong, wrapping my arm around his and letting him lead me through the crowd.

The beating of the drums grew faster, and I looked toward the ring noticing men in masks were dancing while others below the ring clapped and cheered. Now we stood before a tall man, in black and brown robes, his skin perfectly tan, his hair short and combed. The man turned to us and looked at me immediately stunned.

“Kong Pak, this is Amaka. Amaka, Kong Pak, my mentor and very dear friend.” he said. I could hear the happiness in his voice and upon seeing the happiness in his face I knew this was the man Li Yong spoke of back in my home. I looked at the older man and bowed to him.

“Sir.” I replied, my voice nervous. Why was I nervous? It’s not like Li Yong was introducing me his father. Kong Pak looked at Li Yong then to me before smiling.

“Amaka, I’ve heard a great deal about you. Unknowingly you have helped many of my men and their families during times of sickness. You must sincerely forgive me for only meeting you now under these circumstances and please forgive my staring, but I have never met an African woman before. Thank you for all that you have done for my tong and for being my first.” he said bowing all the way down to his feet now. I was stunned by the gesture and then the men behind him, who did look familiar to me, bowed as well. Li Yong and I smiled warmly at each other before looking back to the men.

“It is an honor to meet you, Kong Pak.” I replied. He leaned up and nodded.

“I hope seeing this tournament and its violence, does not paint our people in a negative light for you.” he said. I shook my head.

“Oh no not at all. Coming from the south, this place and the people are… beautiful. Seeing people who are different not bound by slavery still feels like a dream to me.” I replied. His eyes popped now.

“You were a slave?” he asked, and I nodded.

“Yes, but free now.” I replied. He nodded slowly.

“If you would honor me, I would love for us to get together sometime and have tea, the three of us. And then I can show you where Li Yong gets his skills from.” he said with a chuckle, and I looked at Li Yong to see him chuckle.

“It has been too long since we trained. I think it would be nice.” he said genuinely. I glanced at our arms noticing they were still intertwined, and Li Yong’s free hand was resting over my arm, a clear sign he was showing all that I was with him. Kong Pak noticed as well and smiled wider.

“I agree.” he said.

“Everyone the first round will begin in twenty minutes!” a short man called from the middle fo the stage. Li Yong patted my hand and I nodded.

It’s show time.