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Gasps and breathy moans filled the otherwise quiet room, as two bodies entangled upon the canopy bed. A pale and slender hand fisted into the bedding beneath their forms, as the larger of the pair moved in a steady, yet hard rhythm above the other.
“Does it feel good for you, Shixiong?” the larger one asked, lifting a slim leg of the other to hook over his arm as his hips continued thrusting towards the man below him in an even deeper angle, while his other hand ceased from fondling the hard buds adorning the pale chest to slide down to grasp and massage his partner's member in the same rhythm.
The lips of the more slender man parted in reply, but all that left him was a low mewl, his toes curling at the added pleasure the new angle gave them.
With the larger of the two of them leaning forward, his wavy hair covering their faces like a veil, their lips found each other in a messy kiss, their tongues entangling as they lost themselves in the sensation of each other. The hand that had been fisted into the bedding got loosened by the other and made to wrap around his broad back, allowing the slender man to cling onto him for support as he drowned within the pleasure given to him.
Until it became too much to take, like a taunt string finally snapping from too much pressure, and the more slender man trembled in the other's arms as his entire being was overtaken by mind numbing ecstasy as he came. While the man above him shuddered shortly after, thick spurts of white cum filling the man beneath him until it began to leak out from where they were connected in the most intimate way.
At the same time a powerful energy filled both men, their respective spiritual energies intermingling within their joined bodies, yin and yang, burning heat and blessed cool, mixing in balance.
Before both men dropped from joined exhaustion and gasped for breath, their bodies sweaty and buzzing in pleasure from their joining.
“Little beast, get off. You are too heavy.” the more slender man, Shen Qingqiu, groaned as he tapped the man above him on the back. “And pull out already.”
“I am sorry, Shixiong.” the other man, Luo Binghe, quickly lifted himself off from his partner and instead moved to his side, looking him over with mild concern, “Are your sore?”
Stretching out his leg that had been nearly pressed against his own shoulder from the other, Shen Qingqiu propped himself up onto his elbows. “What I am is sticky.” he replied with a mild sound of discomfort at his current state, “I want to have a wash. How do you always cum so much?” he looked down at between his legs, his nose scrunching up as he saw the sticky mess from their coupling.
“Let this Shidi get you a cloth.” Luo Binghe quickly got off the bed, his nude body not showing any kind of strain despite their prior activities, as he walked into an adjoining room to get a basin of warm water and a cloth. Returning to the bed with his haul, he then sat down on the edge of it.
However when Shen Qingqiu reached out to take the basin to wash himself off, Luo Binghe moved it just out of his reach. “Please let this Shidi do it.”
“Why?” Shen Qingqiu raised an eyebrow, “I have two perfectly functioning hands and do not need you to wash me like some invalid. Also you should get yourself cleaned up as well and stop running around my house in the nude like some uncultured brute.”
“I know that Shixiong is capable of doing it himself.” Luo Binghe admitted, “However please let this Shidi do it. I know after all that the dual cultivating always puts a lot more strain on you.” he moved closer, all while quietly ignoring the last part of the small rant given to him.
At these words a blush spread along Shen Qingqiu's cheeks, as he bristled up like an agitated cat. “The only thing that puts a strain on this one is that ridiculously enormous member of yours! That thing is almost as thick as my arm! How about you try taking it!?”
“This one knows and I am sorry.” he soothed the easily agitated man, as both knew that Luo Binghe could not actually do anything about his size. Luo Binghe had always been rather well-endowed and it always needed quite a lot of preparation for Shen Qingqiu to take him. “Was it bad for you, Shixiong?” he then asked carefully, his eyes for a moment trailing towards the sticky mess of white between the other's legs to check for any sign of red.
Shen Qingqiu however only mumbled, “I am not hurt, so stop worrying, you little beast.” he replied, while not truly actually answering the asked question. Surely the state of his body and the mess on his stomach should be evident enough for his opinion on the matter of if it was bad or not. Before he then finally gave in with a sigh, “But fine. If you will stop looking at me like a wet dog left in the rain, do as you want.” he grumbled, as if it was not always the same song and dance between them.
“Then let this Shidi take care of you, Shixiong.” Luo Binghe was instantly full of smiles again as he picked up the cloth and began cleaning off the mess from Shen Qingqiu's body, his hands gentle as he tenderly massaged the other's sore muscles.
As Luo Binghe was tending to him, Shen Qingqiu closed his eyes in a rare moment of relaxation. It truly was always the same song and dance with them and had been for many years now. Every month at the same time they would meet like this, falling into bed with one another and sharing a night of intimacy.
It was not sex between them, but dual cultivation.
Furthermore it was not regular dual cultivation that dotting cultivation partners would often enjoy together, but it was a prescription for Shen Qingqiu, one he had since he had been a mere disciple.
***
“Shizun, it's an emergency! Shen Da-Shixiong is qi deviating!”
Shen Jiu only felt pain and fear as a film of red filled his vision. He felt like a trapped animal, lashing out at the voices around him; the hands reaching for him, touching him and grabbing him. It hurt. It hurt so much. He could not take the pain!
But then suddenly a soothing sensation filled him as a steady stream of qi entered his body, soothing the tearing pain deep within his body that had nearly ripped him apart. Slowly the red haze left him and for a moment he saw the blurry face of his Shizun, who infused his body with spiritual energy, before the red he had been seeing before got replaced with black as he passed out.
The next time Shen Jiu opened his eyes he was not on the Qing Jing Peak training grounds any more, like he remembered last being where he had been training with his younger martial siblings, but what he could only assume to be one of Qian Cao Peak's infirmary rooms.
“Awake again, Jiu-Er?”
Turning his head towards the voice, which cost him more strength to accomplish than he would ever like to admit, he saw his Shizun sitting next to his bed. “Shizun…” he was not sure what to truly say.
His Shizun, the Peak Lord of Qing Jing Peak, looked at him with a stern expression from over her always present fan, “Tell his master, for how long were you experiencing qi deviations, Jiu-Er?”
So she knew. Of course she did. After all Shen Jiu was on Qian Cao Peak, so surely one of the elders of this peak had seen the state of his meridians and had informed his Shizun. Which was why he had always avoided coming to the medical peak. So all he could do now was admit it, as trying to lie would simply be a fool's errand and an insult to his Shizun. “Since before joining Cang Qiong Mountain Sect, Shizun.”
His Shizun stayed silent as she looked at her disciple lying upon the infirmary bed. Before ultimately sighing deeply. “That was truly foolish of you to hide something like this.” she told him with a firm voice, but there was a hint of worry laced within, “You almost died and this master had only barely been able to stabilise you long enough for your Shishu and the Qian Cao Peak disciples to arrive. If you had been outside of the sect, or even simply outside of the training ground, you would have been dead.”
Shen Jiu was not sure what to say. He could say 'sorry' and apologise, but he felt that it was a waste of time. It would not undo what had happened and he knew that his Shizun was not expecting a humble apology from him either.
So instead he asked a simple question. “What did Shishu say?”
Shen Jiu knew that his meridians and his core were not in the best shape, after the faulty and outright dangerous 'cultivation training' Wu Yanzi had put him under. He frequently had qi deviations, getting through bottlenecks was incredibly hard for him, and even just forming a core had been a fight for him, despite his incredibly good cultivation base that should have allowed him to quickly shoot up the various stages of cultivation.
Usually his Shizun never showed many emotions, unless she specifically willed it, but this time her expression was complicated in a way that betrayed that she had tried to hide it and to look detached. It answered his question more than any amount of words ever could.
Trying to not let his emotions show, Shen Jiu simply asked, “Does this mean that this one will have to leave the sect?”
Not being one to ever mince words, his Shizun replied with a neutral voice, “In the state your core is in, cultivating any longer will mean your certain death from qi deviation. Your core is much too damaged and unstable for you to continue as you are.”
Shen Jiu did not react. He looked as detached as a Buddha statue as he heard the diagnosis. However inside he just felt hollow. He had fought so hard to come here. To be accepted in a sect. To become head-disciple and be next in line for the Qing Jing Peak Lord position. To escape his life as a lowly slave and dirty street rat.
“However,” his Shizun spoke up, making Shen Jiu snap out of his thoughts and turn his attention back towards the older woman, “your Shishu had said that there is something that would stabilise your core. They said that they would come and talk to us both about it, once you are conscious again. So this master will go fetch them.” she explained, before getting up to leave the room.
While the time between his Shizun leaving and her and the Qian Cao Peak Lord returning was not long by any means, the anticipation and anxiety that Shen Jiu felt made it seem like an eternity passed until the Qian Cao Peak Lord had taken the seat his Shizun had priorly occupied, to take Shen Jiu's vitals once more.
“So, what do you think?” his Shizun asked, from where she stood by the foot end of Shen Jiu's bed.
“Shen Shizhi's core is in a state that can not be fixed and further cultivation would undoubtedly kill him from his core detonating. The amount of yin energy within him is dangerously high and there is almost no yang energy to balance it, something usually only seen with people who had been touched by some form of demonic cultivation.” the Qian Cao Peak Lord stated professionally, no judgement or questions in their voice.
Among humans there were only two types of people who would fit such a description; cultivators who practised a dark cultivation path based on the cultivation of the demon race and people who had been turned into cauldrons to be used by such cultivators.
The Qing Jing Peak Lord was one of the few people to whom Shen Jiu had admitted to his past connection with the demonic cultivator, something Shen Jiu had not been aware about the man until it had been too late and the damage had been done – although he had never told his current Shizun many details and had no desire to either. So she did not ask any questions either. Instead she asked the Qian Cao Peak Lord something else, “What can be done to help him and to stabilise his core for it to function normally again?” she closed her fan to instead cross her arms in front of her chest, “Disciple Shen is my most talented disciple and most clever student that I am teaching in the four arts, and this lord would rather not have to find a new head-disciple to take over my mantle one day. If he has to take some pills this master is sure she can acquire the needed ingredients or if he has to adjust his cultivation path to something else this one can see to it as well.”
“It is good that Shijie has mentioned Shen Shizhi's cultivation path.” the Qian Cao Peak Lord said as they folded their hands in their lap, “Because in order to stabilise his core and to keep it stable, Shen Shizhi will have to regularly balance it out by replenishing it with the right type of yang energy.”
Shen Jiu thought that it made sense what his Shishu said. However he still raised an eyebrow in question, “If this humble one may inquire, Shishu, but how would this one best do it?” Would he need to go into seclusion on the regular in some place that was rich in yang energy or something? Did such a place even exist?
The Qian Cao Peak Lord was a professional healer through and through, as their expression did not shift at all as they replied. “Shen Shizhi will have to find a dual cultivation partner with a compatible and strong cultivation base to your own and regularly dual cultivate with them. This one would prescribe at least once a month, maybe more if needed.”
While Shen Jiu had a potty mouth that could make a veteran sailor blush, ever since he had entered the sect he had refrained from cursing – aside from at most some more witty and tasteful insults that were nothing like the words he knew from the streets. At least until now.
Luckily neither elder blamed the youth for loosing his temper at that moment and throwing around shocked curses at being told that the only way that he could continue being a cultivator was by finding a dual cultivation partner and having to regularly dual cultivate with them for the rest of his career.
The pair of Peak Lords decided that Shen Jiu should take the time for himself to really think about it and decide for himself if he was willing to accept the prescription or if he rather retired from the life as a cultivator and find a new path for himself. All while his Shizun said that she would in the meantime look into finding a fitting partner for Shen Jiu, in case he did decide to accept the treatment.
***
Shen Jiu had to stay within Qian Cao Peak for a few more days to recuperate from his qi deviation, before he was allowed to leave for his own peak again. Although he was still bared from joining any of the training that involved the usage of spiritual energy to avoid the risk of him qi deviating again, so the only lessons he could join in with for the time being were the ones in the four arts. Even missions were entirely off the table for him now, leaving a sour taste in his mouth.
At the same time all twelve Peak Lords looked at the cultivation of all their disciples to see if anyone within the sect would be a good fit for a potential dual cultivation partner for Shen Jiu. Not that any of the disciples had been informed what the reason for this check was. However as Cang Qiong Mountain was the largest sect within the human realm, with easily thousands of members, and furthermore the Peak Lords were still busy people, this of course took time.
Still, it was not enough time for Shen Jiu to come to any kind of decision. Being unable to use his cultivation grated heavily on him. Simply channelling a small amount of qi into his hand caused him discomfort in his lower dantian. Being a cultivator was all he had ever dreamed of being. He still remembered being a small child begging on the streets, where he would always declare proudly to his Qi-Ge that one day he would be the greatest cultivator in the world and beat up all the human traffickers and slave owners that existed. Yet now that dream was near impossible, unless he did something he did not want to even think about.
He hated being touched and he hated being vulnerable even more. So the thought of dual cultivating with anyone and having to put his trust in them sounded horrible to him.
Shen Jiu though that if he could not become a cultivator, he could still easily become an imperial scholar. The imperial exam would be easy for him and members, current same as former, of Qing Jing Peak were always more than welcome with the emperor and the various human nobility. The last goushi had been a former Elder of Qing Jing Peak, who had retired from the sect after sustaining an injury that had left them in a wheelchair and as such unable to continue being an active cultivator any longer. So it was not that Shen Jiu had to fear ending up on the streets, or worse as a slave, once more if he chose to leave the sect behind.
However Shen Jiu did not like that idea either. What he wanted was to be a cultivator and it was a dream that he could not so easily give up, especially after he had sacrificed so much to come so far. But could he sacrifice even more for it than he already did?
Sitting in his dorm room Shen Jiu was lost in thought, still unable to come to any decision to the point that all he could do was to curse the gods for giving him such an awful fate. Just what had he done in his past life to be dealt such shitty cards? Had he spat into some heavenly official's mother's face or what?
But then he found a small enchanted letter fluttering into his dorm room, the letter folded like a crane. His Shizun liked to use this technique and would often use it when sending more secret messages that were not entrusted to middle men – or when she was in a more silly mood. The letter contained a quick and simple order. 'Come to the Bamboo House.'
Not being one to waste time, Shen Jiu arrived at the Peak Lord's residence shortly after receiving the letter. “This disciple greets Shizun.” he bowed.
“Take a seat, Jiu-Er.” his Shizun gestured at the other seat at her table, on which she had placed a tea set.
Doing as ordered Shen Jiu took a seat opposite of her and without being told moved to pour them both a cup of tea, first for her and then for himself. It was not rare that they would enjoy some tea together. While the Qing Jing Peak Lord was famed for being highly aloof and above of worldly concerns, she did have a bit of a soft spot for Shen Jiu.
Taking a sip of her tea, she looked relaxed. “This master is sure that you know why you have been called?”
Shen Jiu also picked up his cup and took a sip of the fragrant tea. “It is about the prescription.” It was not hard to guess.
“You are correct.” she nodded. “This one has found a suitable partner for you, if you choose to pursue the path of dual cultivation. One who has not only a very strong cultivation base, but also one compatible to your own that it would stabilise your core and strengthen their own cultivation in return.”
Shen Jiu looked at his cup of tea, the reflection of his face within looking passive and detached, not showing any reaction. “And who is that person, if this disciple may ask Shizun?” he once more lifted the tea up to take another sip, simply to do something with his hands.
“Luo Binghe.”
Shen Jiu almost choked on the tea, making him cough. “The little beast?!” Shen Jiu stared at his Shizun with disbelieve.
Luo Binghe was the youngest disciple of Qing Jing Peak and as such Shen Jiu's youngest Shidi. The youth indeed had an incredible cultivation base that promised him a bright future as a cultivator one day and furthermore he was fit and healthy, and a hard worker as well. Luo Binghe even was already incredibly handsome and would surely grow up to make many women and men alike sigh longingly over him. He was so much the ideal specimen of a disciple and future cultivation master, that it annoyed Shen Jiu who in return had his own chances so utterly ruined.
However what Luo Binghe may have had in raw potential, that little whelp lacked in backbone. Despite his endless potential Luo Binghe had the disposition of a kicked dog left in the rain. All the other male disciples bullied Luo Binghe relentlessly whenever they had the chance, often due to jealousy over the fact that the female disciples all fawned over him. However unlike Shen Jiu, who also relentlessly got bullied by everyone within the sect for not fitting in with all of these stuck up young masters, Luo Binghe did not fight back at all. Shen Jiu had been forced to break up a fight more than once, on orders of his Shizun, despite Shen Jiu being very much of the opinion that the little beast should learn to stand up for himself and not rely on others coming to his aid all the time.
“Surely Shizun is jesting?” Shen Jiu asked in disbelieve.
However his Shizun simply looked at him, “Whenever has this master been known for joking around about serious matters?”
At this, Shen Jiu had no reply. It was true that his Shizun had a playful side to her and loved to tease Shen Jiu on occasion, however when it came to anything of importance she always was dead serious. She would not be joking about such a thing.
However that meant that in order to continue being a cultivator and further his training he would need to dual cultivate with Luo Binghe and that on the regular. Furthermore Luo Binghe would also have to agree to something so horrendous like dual cultivating with someone like Shen Jiu.
“You do not have to decide right now, Jiu-Er” his Shizun reassured him, “If you decide on it, this one will get Disciple Luo to talk things out. And if not, then that will be fine too. This is about what you want, Jiu-Er, and nothing else. So do take your time to think about it.”
“This disciple thanks Shizun.” Shen Jiu replied, more out of habit than anything else. He was too lost in turmoil to do much more than that.
With having said what she had wanted to tell him, his Shizun then dismissed him, allowing Shen Jiu to leave.
Walking out of the Peak Lord's home, Shen Jiu's mind was still stuck on the fact that Luo Binghe of all people had been the match that had been found who could stabilise Shen Jiu's core.
Admittedly a small part of Shen Jiu was glad that the found match was a man, as despite what his martial siblings liked to claim due to his circle of friends, he was a complete cutsleeve and he was not sure if he would have been able to do anything if it had been a woman no matter how much he would have tried to force himself.
But it was still Luo Binghe, his most annoying Shidi who would constantly follow him around like a lost duckling going 'Shixiong.' 'Shixiong.' at him, no matter how much Shen Jiu made it clear that he was getting annoyed and would eventually snap at him.
However if he was honest with himself, the truth was that it did not matter if it was Luo Binghe or anyone else. It was the fact that it was anyone. Because before this entire treatment was nothing but a potential, entirely distant and not certain. But now with someone compatible having been found, this treatment, which really terrified Shen Jiu, was suddenly real. He would only have to give a word and his Shizun would set it up. Of course Luo Binghe could still deny the request, as his consent was just as important in the matter and many would not accept the boon of a regular cultivation boost from dual cultivation if it meant having to have sex with Shen Jiu of all people. He was not liked and that for good reason.
Not that Shen Jiu cared, mind you. He was not here to be liked. He was here to become a cultivator!
But he could not continue being one, if he did not agree to the dual cultivation…
He needed time to think and clear his head.
Instead of returning to his dorm room once more, Shen Jiu decided to talk a walk within the bamboo forest to have some time to himself to simply think in peace.
However barely a few minutes into his walk two things had come clear to him. One that he was not getting some time to himself to simply think in peace, as some other disciples had decided to hang out in the forest. But also while the time it had taken to find a suitable potential dual cultivation partner for Shen Jiu had not been enough for him to actually come to any kind of decision, it had been enough time for the information to leak.
“Really, that Shen Jiu?” a disciple from a different peak asked in disbelieve, but an open hint of amusement in his voice.
“I tell you, it is true. Meng Shidi from Qian Cao Peak had told me about this himself after overhearing his Shizun talk about it with the Qing Jing Peak Lord.” another disciple, that one being one of Qing Jing Peak's many outer disciples, said in a snicker, “That stuck up bitch actually needs someone to fuck him, as otherwise his core will explode! That is why we all had our cultivation base tested, to find someone who can fuck that prick.”
“No way!” another disciple laughed, “God, imagine having to do something so disgusting as to fuck that rat. Might as well kiss a dog.”
The outer disciple grinned wickedly at that information, “Well, got to admit that Shen Jiu is nice to look at at least. Just got to stuff his stupid mouth with something and maybe tie him up for good measure, and I might be up to show that slut a thing or–” He did not manage to finish that sentence, when he found his head smashed into the ground by Shen Jiu.
It was later that Shen Jiu once more found himself at Qian Cao Peak with various bruises and a busted lip. However he was in a much better state than his three martial siblings after he had been done with them. If they had not been overheard and a near qi deviating Shen Jiu bodily dragged off them by his Shizun, they would have been even worse off.
Shen Jiu could hear the distant sounds of the Qian Cao Peak disciple who had leaked Shen Jiu's medical information being very loudly reprimanded by not only the Qian Cao Peak Lord, but also Shen Jiu's own Shizun and furthermore the Sect Leader, same as the punishment the disciple had been given in form of a public lashing. Shen Jiu later on was even informed by his Shizun that the disciple in question had been banished from the sect, as he could not be trusted to keep sect secrets if he went around leaking sensitive medical information of his martial siblings.
However both of them knew that it was nothing but a cold comfort, as the damage had already been done. Almost the entire sect had heard the information by that point and it had become the newest hot topic for everyone to discuss with the utmost glee at getting to humiliate the head-disciple whom no one liked.
***
They called him a succubus. They even called him a Huli Jing now. Of course not into his face, usually at least. But Shen Jiu knew. The way the other disciples would whisper and talk, but fall silent the moment he walked past. The way their eyes would linger on him, as if trying to figure out what he did with whom behind closed doors. The way his continued absence from cultivation training and missions was being noted. And the way everyone tried to guess 'Who?' in regards of which cultivator within their sect would even be a fit.
After that first incident Shen Jiu simply ignored the looks and the whispers. His martial siblings had always sneered at him, so it was nothing new to him. Of course it grated on him, but he reminded himself that he was still better than them all. Even with his deficiency his Shizun still wished for him to become the next Qing Jing Peak Lord and not one of his Shidis and Shimeis. So who cared if they sneered? They were simply jealous of him.
Being still barred from doing anything that involved him using his cultivation, Shen Jiu had been given more tasks to do within the peak to keep him busy during the lessons he was not able to join in on. So while his martial siblings sat together with an elder to practise their meditation, Shen Jiu worked down a list of administrative jobs his Shizun had given him. If he one day took over the mantel of Qing Jing Peak Lord he would have to do these jobs all the time, so the chance to familiarise himself more with the various odd jobs was not too bad.
Carrying a bunch of scrolls filled with various reports that he had written, Shen Jiu had to bring them to An Ding Peak to have them filled away properly within its massive archive. However as currently flying via sword was not possible for him, he had to walk everywhere.
Which made him pass one of the many training grounds, where currently many of his martial siblings had assembled. They all sat within the lotus position and formed a half circle, all facing the elder who was leading the meditation session. Where among the group Shen Jiu spotted a mess of wavy hair.
It always was weird how easily Luo Binghe was to spot within a crowd. He did not have anything about him that would make him stand out among all the other identically dressed disciples around him, but yet he always caught everyone's attention right away even if Shen Jiu could not say why that was. Admittedly Luo Binghe indeed was very handsome to look at. Shen Jiu may find the youth obnoxious, but he was not that petty to deny that Luo Binghe was probably one of the most good looking men within the sect. Even now as he sat within the clearing, the sun shining past the canopy of leaves above them all, he looked gallant like a young hero from legend who made everyone look dull next to him. It was truly not hard to look at him. But yet that was not what had made him stand out so much. It almost seemed like he had some sort of aura about him, as ridiculous as it sounded to Shen Jiu.
Huffing to himself in mild agitation, Shen Jiu turned his attention away and continued on his way. To think that this little beast had the right cultivation base to stabilise Shen Jiu's own. How would that little beast react if he were to learn about that fact? Shen Jiu did not even want to imagine it. Surely he would be put off about it. Not that Shen Jiu would blame him.
However he might still accept the offer to help out for the boon with his own cultivation. Dual cultivation was after all an accepted cultivation path that many people practised. Although it usually was actual married couples who practised dual cultivation, but it was no rule technically.
Arriving at An Ding Peak, Shen Jiu handed the scrolls to his Shidi Shang Qinghua and together they categorized them all. Luckily at least his Shidi was one of the few rare people who did not bother to make subtle remarks or kept on staring at him whenever he thought that Shen Jiu was not looking. He simply chatted about some scandalous novel that he had recently found during a market trip, while also whining a bit that he had to order a huge number of supplies for a bunch of repairs An Ding Peak had to do now that some of the higher ranking Bai Zhang Peak disciples had returned from a mission and were as per usual taking half the sect apart.
While Shen Jiu had little to say to the novel, as while he did enjoy reading he did not exactly read the type of raunchy novels his Shidi preferred that much, he could only feel for the other in regards of the latter issue. Being a Qing Jing Peak disciple, Shen Jiu was very much acquainted with the destructive habits of Bai Zhang Peak with its brutish blockheads of disciples. These meatheads had for generations made it their mission to wreck havoc on Qing Jing Peak. Where Shen Jiu certainly got the brunt of it more than once. He had lost count of how often he had to send for An Ding Peak to have his dorm room door be repaired, as the Bai Zhang Peak brutes, especially its brain-dead head-disciple Liu Qingge, had no concept of knocking on doors and simply would kick it in.
In regards for the struggles having to handle the brutes of Bai Zhang Peak, Shen Jiu felt some form of odd kinship with Shang Qinghua.
Eventually the pair of head-disciples finished sorting out all of the reports and adding them to the sect's archive, allowing Shen Jiu to take his leave. Shang Qinghua, who had also finished most of his tasks for the day, had offered to fly Shen Jiu back on his sword, as Shen Jiu could not fly at the moment, but Shen Jiu had reclined the well-meant offer. It was still light enough for him to walk the way back and he was not in the mood to be stuck on a small sword with another man, with no way for him to gain distance.
So with a thanks and a goodbye, Shen Jiu left An Ding Peak.
Evening had reached the human realm as the warm orange hues of the setting sun were gently lighting up the sky. All classes for the day should have finished and all the disciples were left to quietly end their days and to prepare for the night ahead.
It should have been peaceful when Shen Jiu made his way back to Qing Jing Peak. But it was not.
“Shen Jiu!”
Hearing that familiar voice Shen Jiu already felt a headache coming up. Turning around towards the grating voice, Shen Jiu narrowed his eyes, “Liu Shidi, this one sees that you have returned from your mission.” he could have stayed away, “How can this humble Shixiong help you?” the sarcasm in his voice was biting, but he was not sure if it would actually register in Liu Qingge's thick head.
“Is it true?” Liu Qingge asked with a tone of voice that was barely not a growl.
However he did not actually elaborate further, much to Shen Jiu's ever growing annoyance. “While this Shixiong may be learned in the four arts, this one has to admit that he has yet to learn to read minds. So if Shidi were so kind to elaborate about what he is talking about?”
“About having to–” he started, but then suddenly stopped with an uncomfortable expression.
“'About having to', what?” Truth to be told, Shen Jiu already had a guess what the other was going on about, which worsened his mood even more. He was not in the mood to hear that brute's sneers as well now.
“About you having decided to pursue the path of…” he started, before his voice fell slightly more quiet, “dual cultivation.” he almost spat the words out.
Shen Jiu had not decided on anything for one. Not that it was anyone's business what he decided on other than of himself and maybe Luo Binghe, or who else would be a fit. “Now listen here, Shidi,” he started with a sneer. Only to be interrupted by Liu Qingge.
“You doing such shameless things with all kinds of random people for the sake of your cultivation is an insult to the honour of cultivators.” Liu Qingge said with utter conviction and the air of a man who never had known struggle in his life and could not see things from the eyes of another, as he looked down on Shen Jiu, “It is bad enough that you sully yourself by frequenting such dirty establishments all the time, but if you can not cultivate without lowering yourself to such means like giving your body away like some cheap courtesan then maybe you should consider other means than being a cultivator. You are not cut out for something as honourable as cultivation and will never amount to anything if that is what you are doing.”
Shen Jiu saw red. “Liu Qingge, I will not let you brute tell me what I can and can not amount to, nor what cultivation path I choose to pursue and which I won't!” he bared his teeth at him, using his fan to poke the other into the chest repeatedly and pushing him back with every single jab into the ribs, “Not that I am whoring myself out, mind you, as dual cultivation is a practise between a set pair of people! But even if this one decided to get hundreds of dual cultivation partners, that is still none of your business, Liu Qingge!”
“Wait, only one–” Liu Qingge tried to say something in bewilderment and confusion, his mind struggling to catch up with sorting out whatever over the top rumours he might have heard and Shen Jiu's angry rant.
But Shen Jiu did not care for anything that brute had to further say, nor did he give him the chance, “And let me tell you, you damn brute, but I am fit to be a cultivator and I will become one. I will become a Peak Lord and will ascend to immortality, even if my core had been damaged, and nothing you or anyone else says will stop me.” He had it with these stuck up young lords all around him, who did not know how it was to drag oneself out of the gutter and having to fight tooth and nail for every single crumb because they had all the opportunities in life handed to them on silver platters. He was going to show them all, no matter what. He was going to become the greatest cultivator the world has ever seen and nothing will stop him. No matter what stones fate had thrown in front of him and how much he got humiliated and pushed down, he had always found a way to defy fate and prove these heinous voices otherwise, and he would do it again.
With an angry swish of his robes Shen Jiu turned and stormed off in anger. Right back to Qing Jing Peak and into the Bamboo House.
“Shizun,” Shen Jiu said, not even bothering with a proper greeting due to his anger, “this disciple will try out the path of dual cultivation.”
The Qing Jing Peak Lord did not even twitch from where she sat as she painted a landscape painting. She simply finished her brush stroke in perfect calm, before setting her brush properly down onto the stand as she folded her hands in her lap. And only then did she raise her head to look at her disciple, “Then this Shizun will go and talk to disciple Luo and prepare everything.” she stated, “This master will call you once everything has been settled. You are dismissed.”
“Yes, Shizun.” this time Shen Jiu cupped his hands and bowed in thanks, before taking his leave once more, walking out of the house just as swift as he had barged in. As his last thought was that he was going to show them all, they just better wait.
***
Shen Jiu had not expected that it would work so quickly. It was barely a day later that he found himself in his dorm room with Luo Binghe sitting opposite of him for them to talk in private.
Despite the two of them being Shixiong and Shidi for years by that point, this was the first time Luo Binghe had been inside of Shen Jiu's room. Not that Shen Jiu had ever willingly invited anyone inside. In fact the only guest Shen Jiu ever had was Yue Qingyuan, but Shen Jiu had never actually invited him over, he just turned up all the time.
Luo Binghe looked incredibly awkward as he sat opposite of Shen Jiu, trying to make himself look as small as possible as he stared at his own lap, refusing to look at neither the room and especially Shen Jiu himself. It looked ridiculous, especially considering that despite Luo Binghe being a few years younger than him he already was starting to slowly grow taller than him, and yet he tried to make himself look tiny. To think that such a man wanted to become a mighty cultivator who could make his late mother proud.
Having enough of that awkward atmosphere, Shen Jiu decided to finally break the ice. “So, Shizun has talked to you?”
“Ah!” Luo Binghe jolted at having the other speak up, before timidly looking up at Shen Jiu from underneath his lashed. “Yes, she has.”
So tense. It even made Shen Jiu feel uncomfortable. “So you know what this is about?” While Shen Jiu could not imagine his Shizun ever failing to fully detail the situation, he had to make sure for his own peace of mind.
“Yes.” Luo Binghe nodded, “Shen Da-Shixiong's core is unstable and at risk at qi deviations, so you need a dual cultivation partner, and this Shidi has been found to be the most suitable match.” he summarised it all, but the more he talked, the more he blushed.
Not that Shen Jiu could blame him. With the topic being as it was, it took all of Shen Jiu's willpower to not let his face heat up as well. He was feeling just as uncomfortable as the other, even if he refused to show it. “Which means that you know what that entails.” Shen Jiu said, as he then used his fan to lift the other's face up and finding his eyes directly, not letting him look away again. “Which is why I am making it clear that you better think clearly about this. Even if I am your most senior martial brother and the one more in need, I am not going to force you to do anything, little beast, let that be clear.”
Shen Jiu knew how the others within the sect thought about him, calling him a lecher for visiting his jiejies within the brothel. They had never cared to ask why he went there and what his relationship was with them and Shen Jiu simply could not be bothered to correct them as he knew that it had no use. They would believe what they wanted. But he was not going to have the little beast think that he is being forced to do something he did not want to do, just because Shen Jiu needed it for his cultivation. There were surely others, even if they would be less suited than Luo Binghe. It would be no issue.
Luo Binghe, who had been unable to even look at the other on his own before, now was staring at Shen Jiu with wide eyes. “This Shidi does not feel pressured by Shixiong, I swear!” he declared with a surprisingly determined voice, nothing like his quiet rambling before. “I am here from my own free will.” he added to make his statement clear. “This one wants to help Shixiong, because I know that you are a great cultivator and will one day be an even greater Peak Lord. Furthermore this one also knows that dual cultivation will further my own spiritual energy, so it is not as if this one is acting out of pity or anything like that.”
This left Shen Jiu staring for a moment. Before he quietly pulled his fan back from the other, to instead snap it open in front of his face. This time he avoided the other's gaze. He hated to being pitied on, so having Luo Binghe agree purely to help him out, like he were some suffering maiden who needed a big strong man to help him, would have been the worst hit to his pride. So Luo Binghe having his own goals in sight was oddly reassuring about the prospect.
It was not pity. It was a deal between them both. Something the two of them would each benefit from.
“Then very well.” Shen Jiu breathed out, still hiding behind his fan that only his eyes were visible, “Then let us become dual cultivation partners, little beast.”
With the deal being made between them, they had a few things that they needed to sort out. The first being what Luo Binghe decided to approach.
“When does Shixiong wish to… well… start?” he asked shyly, “Later or…” his voice became more quiet as he looked at his lap again, “now?”
This made Shen Jiu think about it seriously. The thought of actually dual cultivating, with the little beast at that, made him feel uncomfortable. However the longer he pushed it off, the longer he would stay barred from actually doing any actual cultivating or joining in on missions. His cultivation was already shaky enough as it was, so delaying his training was of no benefit to him. Furthermore it was not as if Shen Jiu had not done many things that he did not like, nor that he did not accept a lot of misfortune and struggle, all in order to get where he wanted to be, so what was one thing more? At least this time he got to actually choose instead of being forced in one way or another.
So he decided, “Better now. Unless you would rather do it at a later time?”
“Ah, now is fine.” Luo Binghe nodded shyly, his eyes trailing to a small box that was resting within the room.
Once both parties had agreed to their Shizun and the Qian Cao Peak Lord to the treatment and to practise the path of dual cultivation together, the pair had been given everything they would need to dual cultivate successfully and safely. Which was all within the small box, into which Shen Jiu had already looked inside of when he had been first given it.
Not wanting to waste time, in case he decided to reconsider it after all, Shen Jiu pulled forth the box and opened it in order to take out its contents. He did notice how Luo Binghe carefully tried to peek inside, a small hint of genuine curiosity in his gaze.
Not that there was anything scandalous within it. It was only three simple items. Some oils to act as lubricant. Some weak aphrodisiac pills, in case the pair would not manage to get themselves into the right mindset on their own. And a manual.
Shen Jiu could barely wrap his head around it that they were given a manual, even if it had made sense. Dual cultivation was still a way to cultivate and followed certain techniques. But having to follow a manual made Shen Jiu feel incredibly awkward.
Still, he tried to be professional about it. It was simply cultivation in the end and surely sex was nothing too weird either. His jiejies made a living on it, so surely he could do this as well.
“Have you ever done anything like this before?” Shen Jiu asked Luo Binghe, as he moved to open up the manual for them both to have a look at it. It would be easier if at least one of them had some experience.
“No, this Shidi has not.” he shook his head, a tint of pink on his cheeks. For a moment he fidgeted on his spot, his eyes carefully darting towards the other, biting his lip in a clear indication that he wanted to say something, but did not dare.
With mild irritation, something Shen Jiu truly did not need even more of than he already had, he narrowed his eyes at the other. “What is it, little beast?”
“This Shidi was wondering,” he fidgeted some more, his gaze down even as his eyes kept peeking at the other, “if Shixiong has ever done anything like this before?”
Shen Jiu's first instinct was to snap and sneer at the other with something along the lines of 'what do you think?' or 'is it not obvious?', because after all Shen Jiu knew about the things people talked about him and how everyone had decided that he was a lecher. However one of the first things the manual in front of him stated was that it was important to be honest with one's cultivation partner to avoid any mishaps. Where Shen Jiu was sure that letting the other think he had any experience and could lead anything was detrimental to what they were out to do, even if he was sure that the other would not believe him anyway. So he shook his head, “No, this one has not.” Despite everything that had been done to him by men, Shen Jiu indeed was amazingly still a virgin.
For a moment Luo Binghe seemed to almost jolt and tense up, but Shen Jiu was not sure if he saw it right, as it had been that quick. But as the other must be nervous as well, he simply shrugged it off and decided to move the matter along.
With the small talk done Shen Jiu once more turned his attention to the manual, while Luo Binghe moved over to sit next to him and look inside as well. It was straight to the point and explained everything that one needed to know about dual cultivation between two men. It even had illustrations within, something that surely made most people blush to see. However as Shen Jiu was still friends with courtesans and had spend more than one night within a brothels to sleep there, he had seen much more obscene.
Reaching over Luo Binghe pointed at one line. “This says that the effects are better if the one who has more yin energy takes the, ehm, receiving part.”
Which meant that Shen Jiu would have to be one at the bottom. Which was fine with him, he guessed. That way at least he did not have to do much of anything and could simply pretend to not be there until it was over. Shall the little beast do the work.
The pair finished going over the manual soon enough to understand the basics. Not that there was too much to it. Have sex and have your spiritual energies mix during shared climax.
“Shall we then, little beast?” Shen Jiu asked as he got up, indicating to his bed. He tried to sound nonchalant, but he was incredibly awkward and nervous. But he still tried his best to not let anything show. He always was good at hiding his emotions. “A rule however before we start. Absolutely no touching beyond what is needed. So your hands will not move to anywhere but my waist and do not even think about kissing me.” he declared. It was bad enough that they had to do something so intimate, but he was not going to let it become some emotional mess and let the little beast paw him all over like some dog.
“Yes.” was all that Luo Binghe managed to squeak out in regards to the first point, as he got up as well, taking the contents of the box with him as he followed Shen Jiu. “And this Shidi will not do anything that Shixiong does not allow.” he then added.
Shen Jiu tried to keep his composure as he sat down on his bed and removed his boots, and his trousers, until he was bare at the waist down. He never had let himself be seen in any state of undress around any of his martial siblings before and even for baths he refused to go to the communal bathhouse but used a basin in his room or one of the many secluded lakes and springs spread out over the peak. So it was not something he was used to, being even partly in the nude around someone else. However it was not as if he had to fully undress. This was enough for the task at hand.
Luo Binghe however had no such problems, as he was much more used to being in the nude around other men from using the bathhouse with their martial brothers. So while his movements were timid from being clearly nervous, he took off his shirt without too much hassle and folded them carefully. Shen Jiu was surprised to see that the other had already quite defined muscles, unlike Shen Jiu's much more slender frame. He really was not hard to look at, as little as Shen Jiu liked to admit it.
However then Luo Binghe bend and took off his trousers, making Shen Jiu to almost choke on the air, because what was that thing?
Hearing the other suddenly nearly choke and sputter, Luo Binghe jumped and looked worried, “Shixiong, is everything alright? Is it your core? Should I get Shizun?” he asked in light panic.
Shen Jiu however shook his head as his mind was torn between wanting to stare in shock and wanting to look as far away as possible. “How is that supposed to work? That thing between your legs is going to kill me before my core can do it!” Luo Binghe's member was huge, even while flaccid. Surely no man should be that well-endowed and be able to walk! No wonder the little beast was so slow in class, because there could not be much blood left for his brain due to that humongous thing between his legs!
Heat overtook Luo Binghe's face as it registered to him what Shen Jiu's sudden issue was, making him instantly revert back to trying to make himself look as small as he could. Which in this case did nothing to make him look small in any way. There simply was no way to look small with that. “Please do not be worried, Shixiong, this one will try to not hurt you.” he tried to awkwardly sooth Shen Jiu, even if he clearly was not sure how to properly do it. Shen Jiu was a virgin and Luo Binghe, who was also a virgin and just as much stumbling in the dark, was way above average in size, which surely must have been the worst mixture for a first attempt of dual cultivation that there could have been.
However things were as they were and they could not change them now. Luo Binghe was the one who was the best suited as Shen Jiu's partner and was on top of that actually willing to even do it, so Shen Jiu had to simply accept things as they were. Even if they were terrifyingly huge. “If you hurt me, I will make you suffer, little beast.”
“This Shidi wont, I promise!” he swore.
It hurt. It had fucking hurt and Shen Jiu had ended up bleeding by the end, which made him kick that stupid beast out of his room in rage.
But even with the pain aside, it had simply been awkward. It was a lot of stumbling around as they tried to figure out how to best make it work and make it actually even just a bit pleasurable for Shen Jiu. Luo Binghe had ended up already cumming before he had even managed to fully penetrate Shen Jiu, causing them having to stop until Luo Binghe had taken the aphrodisiac to help him get hard again and this time maybe hold out longer. And the manual. Shen Jiu had to cringe just thinking about the embarrassing fact that he lost his virginity while having to follow a manual.
Turning over in his bed, trying to ignore the ache in his behind as he did so and the awful sticky feeling all over, Shen Jiu tried to simply not think about anything.
However then he found himself lifting his hand to look at it within the dimly lit room. He simply stared at it for a while. He could not tell how long he simply laid there like this, mere minutes or maybe even hours. But eventually he channelled qi into his hand and he could feel his spiritual energy flow steadily and properly. No pain within his lower dantian and no fear of his core rupturing on him.
It had indeed worked.
Sighing to himself Shen Jiu then finally got up from his bed and put on a robe to be more covered up. He really had to get himself cleaned up and change his bedding.
But first he went to his door and opened it up. Where, just like he had expected, he found the little beast kneeling in front of his door in shame, despite at least an incense time having past if not more since he had gotten kicked out. “Before you end up cowering here all night like a wet dog and letting everyone else see you, come back inside and at least get cleaned up. I already got enough people talking about me, I don't need even more because you get seen here like this.” Truly, Shen Jiu had seen dogs sitting in the rain who looked less pathetic than the little beast.
Upon being welcomed back inside, Luo Binghe instantly looked back up at him with wet eyes. “Really, Shixiong?”
“Come in before I reconsider it.” Shen Jiu hissed in annoyance, pulling the other inside before any of the other disciples within the dorm could hear the ruckus and be woken up. The rooms may be sound proofed thanks to talismans, but the hallways for sure were not.
Closing the door behind them both Shen Jiu limped over to a basin of water that he had prepared before it all, which was being kept warm with a talisman, where he then picked up a cloth to finally wash off the sticky mess between his legs.
Only to be stopped by Luo Binghe. “Shixiong, may I do it?” he asked as he moved up towards him, taking the cloth from Shen Jiu's hands before even getting a reply.
Shen Jiu however only looked at him with a perplexed expression and found himself blushing, despite what they had done just earlier which surely was a lot more intimate than any of this. “What?” he asked, “Why?”
“Because this Shidi did not want to hurt you, Shixiong.” Luo Binghe explained sincerely, “So please let me make it up to you and take care of you.” he moved closer, almost trapping Shen Jiu between his body and the dresser on which the basin stood.
Shen Jiu stared at him with wide eyes, before eventually looking away with a huff. “Fine.” he gave in, “This one guesses that this is the least you can do after screwing up so badly. But only this time, because if you hurt me one more time, I will cut off that monstrosity between your legs!”
Luo Binghe smiled, “This Shidi will do better, I promise.”
***
“Shixiong, wake up.”
Shen Qingqiu opened his eyes, after seemingly having dozed off while he was being tended to. He was still lying in bed, but now he was cleaned up and even once more dressed, while Luo Binghe sat at the edge of the bed gazing at him.
“This Shidi has brought you some tea, so please have some.” Luo Binghe handed him the steaming cup of tea. “How are you feeling?”
Shen Qingqiu took a sip of the tea, feeling the warm liquid sooth his throat that had gotten more raspy from their prior activities that always left him hoarse afterwards. “This one's spiritual energy is flowing smoothly.” he answered the question, despite knowing that this was not what the other had been asking about, at least not truly.
“That is good.” he still smiled at him. “Still, do take it easy Shixiong and relax a bit more.”
“I already told you that I am not hurt.” Shen Qingqiu repeated. Their disastrous first attempt at dual cultivation, that had left Shen Qingqiu bleeding, had truly traumatised the little beast it seemed. So now even years later he would still fuss endlessly after their every dual cultivation session, despite having long gotten much better at it and not injuring Shen Qingqiu again. “Also this master still has work to do. My disciples' essays do not correct themselves.”
“Then let this Shidi look them over, while you rest.” Luo Binghe then said, as he already moved to the desk on which indeed all kind of paperwork was waiting on, “Shixiong's disciples are practically also my disciples, with how often this one helps with training and teaching them. Plus they call me Shiniang anyway.” he joked, while lighting a candle at the desk for some extra light.
“That is only because you have yet to accept any disciples of your own, despite being a Qing Jing Peak elder.” Shen Qingqiu retorted with a roll of his eyes. He did not even bother commenting on the latter part, which was ludicrous anyway, as he and Luo Binghe were not married or anything like that. However it was true that when Shen Qingqiu was teaching and training his disciples, that Luo Binghe was always close by and would assist. Same as he would indeed take over their training, whenever Shen Qingqiu was busy elsewhere with his Peak Lord duties. It allowed the disciples' training to be much more streamlined than always having to find another elder of the peak who had time to overlook things while Shen Qingqiu was in a meeting.
Knowing that having an argument about it was useless anyway, Shen Qingqiu simply let the other do as he liked and let him do the paperwork while Shen Qingqiu relaxed with the tea Luo Binghe had made for him in hand. He felt comfortable in that moment.
Years had passed since they had first made that deal to become dual cultivation partners, allowing Shen Qingqiu to continue cultivating and Luo Binghe to further his own cultivation, and even years since Shen Qingqiu had taken over the mantle as Peak Lord, while Luo Binghe had come an esteemed peak elder. And yet over these many years Luo Binghe had always stayed by Shen Qingqiu's side and was being a constant in his life. He assisted him with everything that had to be done and always made sure that Shen Qingqiu was taken care of before and after their monthly sessions of shared intimacy.
Was it a wonder that even Shen Qingqiu, who was said to be as cold and unfeeling as ice, still found himself drawn in by someone as charming and handsome as Luo Binghe, who was the first and truly only man to ever treat Shen Qingqiu gently and with kindness?
Looking down at his warm cup of tea, as Luo Binghe quietly worked just at the other side of the very same room, Shen Qingqiu felt a warmth in his chest that he had long learned to name.
Love.
And yet he pushed it down, because he knew that it could never be anything more than it was now. After all, this between them was nothing more than a deal for their equal benefit and nothing more. Feelings were and never had been part of it.
***
“You have summoned me, Zhangmen-Shixiong.” Shen Qingqiu more stated than asked, when he entered the sect leader's office.
“Ah, Shen Shidi, do come in.” Yue Qingyuan smiled at him, gesturing to join him. “How is Shidi fairing?”
Always this useless small talk from that man. “This Shidi is doing well. Thanking for Zhangmen-Shixiong's concern.” Shen Qingqiu replied placidly, before trying to get the topic going so that he could leave again, “What can this Shidi do for Zhangmen-Shixiong?”
Knowing very well what a short patience Shen Qingqiu had, Yue Qingyuan did not dare delaying the reason for his summoning for much longer than it needed to be. “Oh, well, since Shidi's” he cleared his throat, “cultivation session with Luo Shidi should have passed by, this one was hoping that you could take over a mission.” he explained as he pushed over a scroll containing the mission's information.
Shen Qingqiu found it rather concerning as for why Yue Qingyuan was keeping up with Shen Qingqiu's and Luo Binghe's dual cultivation schedule to such a degree, that he knew that it had been exactly the evening before, when it was only something at most Mu Qingfang had to know as the physician was these days the one who was keeping an eye on Shen Qingqiu's core. However then again almost everyone knew about the fact that Shen Qingqiu and Luo Binghe were dual cultivation partners. With the information of Shen Qingqiu's prescription having been leaked years ago, it had been unavoidable that people had quickly also found out who had been the chosen partner. Who else but his dual cultivation partner would after all visit Shen Qingqiu's bedroom once a month? Even the morons at Bai Zhang Peak had quickly figured it out.
“Very well.” Shen Qingqiu picked up the scroll to take a look at it. “The little beast and I will see to it as soon as possible.” With the unstable state of Shen Qingqiu's core, he had never again been allowed to go on missions without the other in case of something going wrong and he was at the risk of qi deviation. And while it had annoyed Shen Qingqiu to no end at first, he had long accepted it having the little beast join him everywhere he went. He may have his pride, but Shen Qingqiu was not so stupid as to risk his life either over it.
While Yue Qingyuan smiled, his expression was tense as he did so. “This one thanks Shidi.” Shen Qingqiu knew how the other felt about Luo Binghe being his dual cultivation partner. He was no idiot after all and the former Qian Cao Peak Lord had told him that apparently Yue Qingyuan had come to them more than once to ask if anything can be done to make his own cultivation foundation be more fitting for Shen Qingqiu's own, all to probably appease his own endless guilt by being the one to help him with his health problems.
Not that Shen Qingqiu cared any more, so he simply nodded and took his leave.
Back at his own peak he found Luo Binghe on one of the training grounds, as he lead Shen Qingqiu's direct disciples through their daily training.
“Shizun!” his youngest disciple, Ning Yingying, ran up towards him with excitement upon spotting her Shizun approaching the training ground.
“Hello, Ying-Er.” he greeted the young girl as he laid a hand upon her head in a small affectionate gesture.
Giggling with joy at the attention, she then smiled up at Shen Qingqiu with bright eyes, “Shizun, Luo Shiniang showed us a new technique today. Do you want to see it?”
“Shimei, don't call Luo Shishu something like Shiniang.” Ming Fan, Shen Qingqiu's oldest disciple, awkwardly called out towards the girl. The boy was not exactly fond of Luo Binghe, as he considered him to be shameless, even if he was of course respectful towards his elder when Shen Qingqiu was around.
“Well, he should be.” Ning Yingying simply answered with the innocence only a young and idealistic girl like her could have. She had always been a big fan of grand romantic stories and would often meet up with the other girls from the other peaks to talk about whatever newest romantic tale they got their hands on at that time.
Shen Qingqiu simply choose to ignore her comment. It was inappropriate, but he did not have it in himself to reprimand her for it. Instead he simply concentrated on the other thing she had said. “Ying-Er can show this master her new move a bit later. But first take along your Shixiongs and go have lunch. This Shizun has to talk to your Luo Shishu.”
Being pleased that she got to show off later, Ning Yingying nodded, “Yes, Shizun.” Before she went back to her Shixiongs, at which they all went to the dining hall for the time being.
“So, what has Zhangmen-Shixiong wanted from you, Shen Shixiong?” Luo Binghe had taken the place at Shen Qingqiu's side, as the two automatically began walking off and away from the training ground as well.
“It is about a mission.” Shen Qingqiu answered him, pulling out the scroll from his sleeve to hand it to the other, “There is a haunting going on with some towns people going missing.”
Accepting the scroll, Luo Binghe gave it a quick read as well. “When does Shixiong wish to leave then?”
“Tomorrow at dawn.” he replied, “That way we should arrive before nightfall tomorrow.”
Having finished looking over the details of the mission and putting the scroll into his own pouch for now, Luo Binghe nodded, “Then this Shidi will have everything prepared for tomorrow.”
Shen Qingqiu wanted to point out that things like these were technically Ming Fan's job, as the oldest of Shen Qingqiu's disciples and current candidate for the head-disciple position, but he knew that Luo Binghe would still do as he pleased. It was no wonder that Ming Fan did not like him much.
Dawn arrived and the pair set out together for the mission, both riding horses down the road to make their way to the town in the need of their help.
This was a common enough sight. Where Shen Qingqiu went, Luo Binghe would always follow like his shadow. With Shen Qingqiu's title and Luo Binghe's fame people far and wide had begun to know them as a duo who simply belonged together and who functioned best as a team after years of working together as one.
Which however had of course lead to a few smaller problems. More than once the common people, who only had a small understanding of the workings of the Jianghu, had assumed that they were married. The first time an aunty had called Luo Binghe 'that handsome husband of yours', Shen Qingqiu – at that time still a disciple – swore that he had almost qi deviated on the spot from shock. Shen Qingqiu still found himself constantly having to correct people, even if Luo Binghe more than once told him to not bother with it as it was not as if they would see these people ever again after their missions were done so it was not worth getting worked up over it.
However the bigger problem was the other cultivators. By this point most other cultivators from outside of their sect also knew about Shen Qingqiu's situation and him and Luo Binghe being dual cultivation partners, as it was bound to eventually leak beyond the sect. And unlike the mortal commoners, the other immortal masters understood more about the situation. So they loved to make fun of Shen Qingqiu at every chance they got. Of course he stood above such things and he was used to them talking behind his back anyway. However once or twice he had been close to not care about his and the sect's reputation and make these son's of dogs eat their words. One incident, where he had to be held actively back by both Shang Qinghua and Luo Binghe, was when someone from a smaller sect started claiming that Shen Qingqiu was using cauldrons to further his cultivation. Shen Qingqiu was more than glad that he had never seen or even heard of that filth again in his life, because next time he would not have let himself be held back again by anyone.
But while Shen Qingqiu was used to having people talk about him, as it never had been any different, he could not help wonder how Luo Binghe had felt about it all. As after all he was implicated as well in that talk. Luo Binghe never seemed all too bothered, always saying that he did not care what people said about him as long as they did not dare to talk badly about the people he cared about. But surely he could not be too thrilled either having people always assume he was Shen Qingqiu's husband or were talking about their intimate life together and making assumptions about them. Even if he had agreed to become dual cultivation partners and furthering his own cultivation with it, being the target of mockery due to his association with someone like Shen Qingqiu had not been part of that deal.
Eventually the pair arrived at the town that they had been asked to help. Where they went to an inn for a place to stay during their mission.
“Let this Shidi book us rooms.” Luo Binghe offered as they entered the inn building.
“As you wish, little beast.” Shen Qingqiu let him. As his junior it was expected for Luo Binghe to take over such tasks, so Shen Qingqiu saw no reason to fight him over it.
At least until he saw the young woman standing behind the counter, her eyes not hiding her interest in the handsome cultivator who approached her to book a pair of rooms, filling Shen Qingqiu's mouth with a sour taste. Of course, that had been the reason; a pretty young woman. Why had Shen Qingqiu even thought of anything else? Luo Binghe had always been incredibly popular with women all around with his charming personality and incredible good looks. Wherever he went, admiring women would follow, both young and old, and even both maidens and the odd married woman and widow, one more pretty than the next. A sight that never failed to fill Shen Qingqiu with anger. And anger he had no right to feel. It was after all not as if he and Luo Binghe were exclusive or anything like that. They were in fact nothing at all to one another other than simply Shixiong and Shidi who practised the path of dual cultivation together. Truth to be told, Shen Qingqiu did often wonder if the other had a partner or two at the side, people whom he actually liked and wished to be with. These thoughts always left him in a bad mood for days, but it was not as if he could not understand Luo Binghe or blame him.
“Shixiong, is everything alright?”
His eyes widening, Shen Qingqiu found Luo Binghe suddenly standing in front of him, looking at him with concern after the other had been spaced out. “Oh, this one had been thinking about the mission, little beast, so stop hovering.” he waved him off. “Did you get the room keys?” he then asked to change the topic.
“Yes, I did.” Luo Binghe answered as he held up a key.
One key. “Where is the other key, little beast?” Shen Qingqiu looked him up and down.
“Well, they only have one room free at the moment, as there is soon an annual festival happening, so this one could only book one room for us.” Luo Binghe explained, “And this one thought that surely Shixiong will not mind sharing. Or would you rather look for another inn?”
Thinking about it Shen Qingqiu could indeed vaguely remember that some festival would take place within this month, but he could not recall the exact date. It was not as if he often went out for festivals or the likes. “If they have nothing else free, then this one guesses we can share.” While Shen Qingqiu would rather be within a different inn that did not involve pretty young workers flirting with Luo Binghe during their mission, he found the thought of finding another inn too much of a hassle. It was not as if they had never shared a bed before.
Following Luo Binghe upstairs they entered their inn room. It was a moderately nice room with a table, a small privacy screen with a wooden bath tub, a wardrobe, and a single bed. For a moment Shen Qingqiu's eyes lingered on the bed, before he moved to place his bag aside. “This one will go and interview the local lord about the disappearances while you ask around the locals for information, and we will meet up here again before sundown.” he then ordered, not wanting to waste time.
“Yes, Shixiong.” Luo Binghe saluted without complaint, before both of them each moved out to learn what exactly was going on so that they could take care of the problem.
Shen Qingqiu's interview with the local lord did not take all too long. The elderly man seemed genuinely concerned for the safety of the people under his care. However as the man was very old and within a wheelchair, while his only son had died of an accident a month ago while the grandson was still much too young to even be out of the schoolroom yet, he could not do much himself to solve the problem other than call for help from Cang Qiong Mountain. Not that a mere mortal should attempt to take matters in their own hands when it came to anything involving ghosts, demons, or ghouls. But as the man answered Shen Qingqiu's questions, he quickly had begun to have a hunch at what the matter was.
So once he took his leave, he went to meet up with Luo Binghe.
Luo Binghe too had quickly gained the same suspicion as he had interviewed the towns people. Where their hunch had turned out to be correct and the matter was solved within the same night. Someone had desecrated the cemetery on which the local lord's son had been buried a month before, to steal anything valuable from the grave. Where the perpetuator had seemingly also looted some of the other graves while they had been there. Which had left the spirits of the deceased, who had yet to enter the cycle of reincarnation, to feel unrest and begin to haunt the town.
So while Shen Qingqiu had performed rituals to lay the spirits to rest once more and make them release the people whom they had spirited away, Luo Binghe had went to find and capture the person who had cause it all to hand them over to the local lord to deal with.
A day had barely passed when Shen Qingqiu and Luo Binghe had already finished with their mission and they returned to the inn.
“A set of disciples could have handled this mission.” Shen Qingqiu said as they went up into their inn room, “Sending out two masters was a waste of resources.”
“While this Shidi agrees, everyone had assumed that it could have been a resentful spirit or a demon at work, which would have been too much for disciples to handle on their own.” Luo Binghe replied, “No one could have expected it to only be some grave robber having woken up some lingering and confused spirits.”
Shen Qingqiu could not deny that, but he still felt like it had been a bit of a waste of his time. The travel itself had taken longer than the mission. “Nothing that can be done about it now.” Shen Qingqiu sighed as he sat down by the small table within the room, “Let us rest until tomorrow and then travel back to the sect by dawn.” Admittedly they could leave now, as his and Luo Binghe's cultivation was high enough to not need rest even after a whole day and night of them being up, same as their horses had been resting within the inn's stables ever since they had arrived. But they would not arrive back at the sect before nighttime and riding horses in the dark was not safe for neither horse or rider. He saw no reason to risk the horses if he did not have to.
Usually Luo Binghe agreed to most things Shen Qingqiu decided on. But this time he did not nod along in agreement like he usually did, but seemed to have something on his mind.
“Is there something to object about it?” Shen Qingqiu asked him at his weird behaviour, “Would you rather leave now, little beast?”
“Oh, no. Not that.” Luo Binghe quickly shook his head, “It is just that this Shidi had been thinking that as we are not expected back so soon and as there is a festival going to take place soon, that maybe we could stay for a bit longer?” he suggested hopefully and with a mildly pleading voice.
Shen Qingqiu was slightly speechless at this. He had nothing against the little beast wanting to stay longer and enjoy the festivities, as he was an adult man with a free will. But why ask Shen Qingqiu permission as if he were some child and Shen Qingqiu his caretaker, and furthermore why the 'we'?
“This one does not care much for town festivals.” Shen Qingqiu replied. He indeed did not enjoy them much. He simply was not a fan of crowded places and festivals were usually busting with people.
“Please, Shixiong. It would be boring being on my own.” Luo Binghe pleaded with him, looking much like his younger self in that moment with that kicked dog look on his face, “This Shidi will make you some Ma Po Tofu if you join me.” he then offered.
At first Shen Qingqiu was going to reject the request, but the offer of having the other cook for him caught his attention and he looked at him with interest. As obnoxious as the little beast was, his cooking was the best Shen Qingqiu ever had the pleasure of tasting and he could not deny that he did truly enjoy it having the other make him food. So he gave him a long look as he hummed in thought. “I also want some soy milk pudding.”
A smile so bright that it could have rivalled the sun spread over Luo Binghe's face, “Anything Shixiong wants!” Without wasting a moment he went towards the door, “This Shidi will ask the inn owner if I can borrow the kitchen, so please do wait here, Shixiong.” he said, before quickly leaving the room.
Shen Qingqiu watched him go as he shook his head to himself. He would never in his life understand that little beast and his weird whims. However he guessed getting to spend some extra time with him did not sound too bad, even if he would never admit it out loud.
***
The days where they stayed at the little town had passed by in a blur. With the pair not having any work to do as they were staying within the town until the festival concluded, something the town's people were ever so excited about having the cultivators who had helped them stay for it, they instead enjoyed some rare leisure time – something Shen Qingqiu had rarely done in his life, but Luo Binghe had a way of convincing him and getting his way somehow.
They went on walks together as they explored and enjoyed the scenery. They had even found a very picturesque spot at a small waterfall by the mountain side, where Luo Binghe had decided upon an impromptu picnic as Shen Qingqiu painted the scenery. Furthermore they would spend some time with various of the town's people, who welcomed them with open arms. Shen Qingqiu quickly found himself befriending some of the older aunties within town, while Luo Binghe had practically turned into a magnet when it came to the children living here who seemingly had made it their mission to study just how many children the big and strong cultivator could carry at once – turned out it was more of a space issue than a weight issue. Before finally the duo would return to their booked inn room to retire for the night. Despite technically only having been required to cook once for their little silly deal Luo Binghe had made it his mission to cook every day for them personally, instead of ordering food from the inn's kitchen, but Shen Qingqiu for sure was not going to complain.
It felt almost domestic. And while of course Shen Qingqiu knew that he should not be allowed to think this way and enjoy something that was not his, he still could not help himself from being greedy. He had always been greedy and wanted more than he deserved.
Waking up in the early morning hours, Shen Qingqiu blinked tiredly as he slowly came to his senses. Usually he was one to become alert instantly upon waking up – if he managed to sleep that was, as he had some issues with insomnia at times – but this past week it had been differently where he found himself lounging more. He blamed it on the unaccustomed leisure time, which had made him almost settle down.
Wanting to sit himself up, Shen Qingqiu however found himself slightly stuck. There was an arm wrapped around him and a warm body pressed to his back. Turning his head slightly he saw the sleeping face of Luo Binghe, who had practically wrapped himself around Shen Qingqiu in his sleep. That little beast was a very clingy sleeper, who would always end up holding onto Shen Qingqiu in one way or another whenever they had ended up sharing a bed for whatever reason. It probably was a good thing that the two of them had always been paired up for missions with each other instead of other people, as surely Luo Binghe would have long gained the reputation of a pervert if he clung onto every poor soul that he had ended up sleeping next to.
The first time they had shared a bed, which happened to have been right after dual cultivating where they had ended up falling asleep, Shen Qingqiu had kicked him out of the bed the next morning from how startled he had been. Truth to be told he had done it more than once, because it always gave him a fright waking up with having a man cling onto him like that. But eventually he had gotten used to it. In fact, if Shen Qingqiu was honest with himself, he had come to enjoy it a bit.
Which was why he shook the other's arm off and wiggled out of his hold. “It is time to wake up, little beast. And stop always clinging onto me. Can you not sleep properly?” he sat up.
“Morning, Shixiong.” Luo Binghe yawned and stretched himself, not bothering to apologise for his clinging nor answering the, admittedly rhetorical, question. “Why up so early? Can we not stay in bed a bit longer?” he asked with a tired voice as he, like the shameless beast that he was, wrapped his arms once more around Shen Qingqiu's middle and pulled him back down into the bed to presumably go back to using him as a stuffed toy. “The festival is not until tonight.”
A blush spread along Shen Qingqiu's cheeks when he found himself pressed onto the bed and having Luo Binghe sleepily push his face into his neck, mumbling something that almost sounded like 'A-Jiu' – but that must have been him mishearing him. Admittedly that was by far not the first time that he found himself pushed down onto a bed by Luo Binghe, due to the nature of their relationship, but that was when they were dual cultivating every month. But not whatever this was.
So Shen Qingqiu grabbed his fan from the overhead board of the bed and used it to lightly hit the other over the head, not hard enough to hurt but enough to be felt. “Get off you shameless beast.” Shen Qingqiu pushed against him, “I have promised aunty Xun from the market to make some protective talismans for everyone before we leave tomorrow, same as you had promised uncle Yin to fix the roof of his shop.”
The light slap of the fan on his head seemed to finally wake Luo Binghe up properly, as he sat himself up and let go of Shen Qingqiu. “Sorry, Shixiong. You are right.”
He did not sound sorry, however Shen Qingqiu was not in the mood to argue about that right now. “Enough of that now. This one wants to take a bath before we leave.”
“Shall this Shidi then get and heat up some water?” Luo Binghe asked promptly as he got out of the bed, “Or would you rather have me make breakfast, Shixiong?”
Sometimes Shen Qingqiu wondered if the other thought that he was his servant and not simply his Shidi. However as that man was much like a dog who seemed to live to please, he saw no reason as to deny him wanting to be of usage. “If you wish, you can make us some food.” Shen Qingqiu replied, “This one is capable of taking care of the bathwater himself.” He may be a Peak Lord, but he was not some pampered lord who needed everything done for him. However he was not remotely as good as a chef as Luo Binghe was and after all these years with the little beast by his side he knew that the other genuinely enjoyed cooking, so why deny him that?
“Then this Shidi will make us some breakfast.” Luo Binghe agreed as he threw something slightly more appropriate than his sleepwear over and tied up his hair, before leaving the room. All while Shen Qingqiu had done the same, leaving the room not long after to prepare himself a bath.
Being a cultivator certainly had its benefits, as transporting various buckets of water was much easier for him and thus took him less trips to get the wooden bathtub filled. While a heating talisman took quick care of warming up the water to a comfortable temperature.
Sitting within the warm water Shen Qingqiu found himself relaxing. This was also something he usually did not do; sitting in a bathtub and simply relaxing within it. He had way too much work to do on a regular day for him to linger in the water for longer than it took him to wash himself. But it was nice getting to simply sit in the warm water for a change. Maybe it really was not a bad idea having let the little beast talk him into staying for the festival.
From the other side of the privacy screen Shen Qingqiu could hear the door of the inn room opening and closing and the familiar sound of Luo Binghe's steps moving upon the wooden floor. “I am back, Shixiong.” he announced as he, going by the sound of it, placed a tray of food onto the small table, “I made us some congee for breakfast.”
“This one will be there in a bit. Feel free to start eating without me, little beast.” Shen Qingqiu replied. He had not expected Luo Binghe to be back so fast, so he found himself slightly flustered at having been caught lingering in the bath instead of actually washing himself.
However while Shen Qingqiu told the other to start eating, Luo Binghe instead walked past the privacy screen to stop next to the bathtub.
“What are you doing?” Shen Qingqiu jolted and almost dropped the hair oil, as he instinctively sunk further into the water. Although he knew that it was silly to do, as there was certainly no part of his body that the other man had by that point not seen with great detail.
“I wanted to help you wash your hair.” Luo Binghe answered plainly, as he took the bottle of hair oil out of Shen Qingqiu's hand.
Shen Qingqiu in return found himself so perplexed by the sudden situation, that he failed to say or do anything to even attempt to stop the other. So Luo Binghe calmly moved behind where Shen Qingqiu was leaning against the edge of the bath and began to wash his hair.
Now it was not the first time that Luo Binghe had washed Shen Qingqiu's hair. In fact he had more than once washed him all over. But that had always been after their dual cultivation sessions and due to the little beasts endless need to make sure that the other was alright and not hurt again like the first time. However they had dual cultivated over an entire week ago, so this was entirely unnecessary for the sake of aftercare.
And yet Shen Qingqiu simply closed his eyes as he felt the strong fingers run carefully through his hair as Luo Binghe washed them. It felt nice being tended to by the other and it made his chest feel warm. It made him feel cared for. It even almost made Shen Qingqiu wonder if this was what it felt like when one was being liked by someone else.
Once Luo Binghe had finished with Shen Qingqiu's hair he had moved to wash his back as well without a word about it. He simply made some casual small talk, talking about the things he was told by one of the aunties from the market would be present during the annual festival and how he was planning to get a few little gifts and treats for their disciples.
When Shen Qingqiu did finish with his bath, with more assistance than he had been expecting, Luo Binghe had then even combed his hair and tied it up too in Shen Qingqiu's usual hairstyle.
“Shixiong really has such soft and silky hair.” Luo Binghe commented as he fixed the guan into the hair. “Mine is much harder to tame, but Shixiong is aware of that.” he added sheepishly.
That was true. Shen Qingqiu had more than once reprimanded the other for failing to get his hair under control, especially when they had still been disciples. The wavy hair was much harder to tame, something Shen Qingqiu had attempted once or twice. However it was admittedly almost fluffy looking and it gave Luo Binghe quite a soft charm to him, despite otherwise radiating endless power and strength. It did feel nice when touching it.
Only once Luo Binghe had washed, combed, and even helped Shen Qingqiu dress for some reason, did the fussy man finally release him and allowed him to sit down at the table to have breakfast.
“I hope Shixiong likes it.” Luo Binghe said as they both ate the congee he had made.
“If this one did not like it, I would dump the food on your foul head.” Shen Qingqiu huffed in reply, before taking another bite. The food was perfect as always, but as usual the shameless beast was needy for praise. Not that he would get it that easily.
However as Luo Binghe, after all these years together, had come to understand Shen Qingqiu and what he meant compared to what he said quite well, he simply smiled happily. “Once we both go back home together, then maybe this Shidi can always made Shixiong's meals?”
The offer was highly tempting, however it was a silly one to accept. Shen Qingqiu was already claiming too much of the other's grace and kindness as it was. “You have too much work to do as a sect elder to be milling around the kitchen all day. This lord will not allow you to skip on your work.”
“Whatever Shixiong says.” Despite having been denied, he still smiled in good humour.
“Now enough talking about silly things.” Shen Qingqiu waved him off, “Finish up eating and take a bath yourself, so that we can leave soon.”
“Yes, Shixiong!” Luo Binghe jokingly saluted, as he once more returned to eating.
Having finished the food Luo Binghe then also went to have a wash, promising to be quick, while Shen Qingqiu took the dishes they had used and return them to the kitchen.
The inn had been decorated for the occasion and it was already in high action as the owner and their staff worked hard to prepare for the evening. In general the inn seemed much more active than it had been when he and Luo Binghe had arrived a few days ago. It seemed as if many more people were around now, which felt a bit odd. However thinking about it a bit more he guessed it made sense that if felt fuller now than it did then, as then the town still had the problem with being haunted and a few people having vanished. Most sensible people would then avoid leaving their rooms and homes.
Mentally shrugging to himself, Shen Qingqiu forgot about it and went to check if Luo Binghe was ready yet so that they could leave.
The market was even more active than the inn had been, as everyone prepared for the festival later that day. The pair of cultivators' arrival was announced by the sound of multiple squealing children.
“It's Binghe Gongzi!” the group of children that had been playing, came all running over and all jumped onto Luo Binghe like little monkeys. “Are you going to play with us?”
Plopping a little girl onto his shoulders, while lifting up another girl and a boy in each arm while one more grabbed him tightly by his robe, Luo Binghe smiled at the children, “If I have the time, sure.”
Shen Qingqiu pulled out his fan to hide his amused smirk at the sight. For a person who was so adamantly against taking on disciples himself, he certainly wrapped these children around his little finger. Or was it the other way round?
With Luo Binghe successfully being occupied for the time being, Shen Qingqiu looked around until he spotted aunty Xun setting up her stall, together with her son and daughter-in-law. “Aunty Xun, this one is here because of the talismans you had asked about.” With the recent problem with the wandering ghosts, many of the people living in this town were still spooked and deeply worried about something similar happening again. As such Shen Qingqiu had volunteered to make them a bunch of ghost repelling talismans for free, which aunty Xun was going to hand out to everyone from town during the festival that night.
“Ah, Master Shen, thank you ever so much for coming.” the elderly lady greeted him warmly, her aged yet strong hands grasping his own. “This humble one can barely express my gratitude that the master is willing to lend us a hand like this.”
“There is no need for thanks. It is the duty of a cultivator to protect the common people of any kind of threats.” Shen Qingqiu would not truly call himself the charitable kind and he certainly was not known as such. However he personally knew how much the poor, who could not afford to hire cultivators, struggled with having spirits, ghosts, and demons harming them. Furthermore Shen Qingqiu had always been weak to women and simply could not sit by as an elderly lady felt worry for her and her family's safety if he had the ability to help. It was not as if making some talismans was much of a hard task for him anyway.
“Still, thank you again from the bottom of my heart, Master Shen.” aunty Xun smiled at him, her eyes misty. Before she then gestured at a small chair by her stall. “Feel free to sit down there as you work, Master Shen. We will try to not disturb you, as you work.”
As having a sturdy surface made the work much easier and that way he would be the least in the way for the people setting up for the festival, he accepted her offer and took a seat. Of course Shen Qingqiu had already begun making talismans and had a few packs of them long finished. However a few more could not hurt and this way he could give aunty Xun a few more tips on how even mortals with no cultivation could keep spirits at bay with folk magic in a pinch, which surely would be of usage once the talismans would eventually run out.
Sitting together at the stall, Shen Qingqiu began to make more talismans for aunty Xun and her family to later on hand out to everyone.
“Young Master Luo certainly seems to be skilled with children.” aunty Xun commented with amusement, as she watched Luo Binghe entertain the group of children.
At this Shen Qingqiu made a non-committal sound. “This one can not say. However children do certainly seem to like him for the most part.” But then again, almost everyone did.
“Have you and young Master Luo ever considered having children of your own, Master Shen? I am sure that your husband would surely be a great father.” aunty Xun then suddenly asked, making Shen Qingqiu jolt so much like some startled cat that he almost messed up the his brush stroke on the half-finished talisman.
“Luo Binghe and I–“ Shen Qingqiu started to explain that they were in fact not married, only to find himself interrupted by none other than Luo Binghe himself.
“Aunty Xun, do you know where uncle Yin may be?” he asked as he joined the pair at the stall, all while placing the children he was carrying around back onto the ground and send them along for now, “This one had promised to help him fix his roof today, before the festival starts.”
“Oh my, how kind of you.” aunty Xun clapped her hands together in delight, “Ever since he had pulled his back last summer, he had not been quite able to do these things himself any more, and as his daughter is currently heavily pregnant his son-in-law can not always find the time to come over and help out with repairs and other chores.” as she mentioned the pregnant daughter-in-law, she did give Shen Qingqiu a look which made him feel the tip of his ears heat up at their prior conversation topic. “This one wanted to talk to him about something anyway, so let me bring you to him.”
“That is very kind, aunty Xun.” Luo Binghe smiled as he gallantly offered his arm to the elderly lady. “A-Jiu, I will be back to pick you up on time for the festival. So see you later.” he then said, as he and aunty Xun walked off.
Shen Qingqiu however was still much too flustered about the whole 'having children together' situation to do much more than hum in reply. They were not even married, so why would they have children together? Furthermore surely them both having disciples together was more than enough. Well, Shen Qingqiu had disciples which Luo Binghe occasionally taught as well, but that was beside the point.
Luckily at least Luo Binghe did not hear that conversation, because surely he must be tired from everyone always making false assumptions about them both. Shen Qingqiu could only hope that aunty Xun did not make any more weird comments, while she was with Luo Binghe.
Trying to not think about that misunderstanding again, Shen Qingqiu returned to his work of making more talismans. Only to find himself suddenly feeling as if something that Luo Binghe had said when leaving felt weird, but with how distracted Shen Qingqiu had been he could not place his finger on what it had been. Not that it mattered much.
Once Shen Qingqiu had finished the last talisman he handed them all to aunty Xun's daughter. However as he and Luo Binghe were unofficially considered the town's guests of honour, as they had solved their ghost problem, Shen Qingqiu was barred from helping with actually setting up any of the festival. As such he had returned to the inn for the time being to wait for Luo Binghe to join him.
“Ah, here you are, Shixiong.” Luo Binghe said as he entered the inn room.
Having read a book to pass the time, Shen Qingqiu placed his book aside. “How did it go? Is the roof fixed?”
“Yes, everything is as good as new again.” Luo Binghe replied as he walked up towards him, where he then held out his hand towards him. “So Shixiong, shall we then go to the festival together? When I came back I saw that the first entertainments have already begun and it would be a shame to miss out. Uncle Yin even mentioned that there will be fireworks that he is helping out with and this one can not wait to watch them with you later.”
Shen Qingqiu's eyes went towards the hand offered to him, before quickly turning away. Were in order to not look too much like a fool he instead looked at the window. It indeed had begun to slowly turn dark outside and Shen Qingqiu could hear the distant sound of festive music being played. “Very well, let us get this over with.” he huffed as he accepted the offered hand and got up.
The town centre seemed to have transformed within the few hours after Shen Qingqiu had left and now that the many lanterns had been light and spread their festive glow, the people were beginning to enjoy themselves. Colourful banners were hanging everywhere, joyful music was playing, and beautifully painted lanterns were lighting up the entire town.
Together both Shen Qingqiu and Luo Binghe walked along the many stalls that sold all kinds of local specialities. Where Luo Binghe did indeed buy various little gifts to take back to the sect for the disciples, same as he bought him and Shen Qingqiu some of the local treats to try out, as they watched the performances the towns people had set up, from musical ones to theatres. They had even stopped at a small shadow puppet theatre for children together, as Luo Binghe mentioned how these used to be his highlight when he was still small and would visit the festivals in his home town with his late mother, something Shen Qingqiu hummed along with as he also remembered him and his Qi-Ge always sneaking up to watch the performances in secret back then.
Luo Binghe certainly seemed to enjoy himself as they walked along the town festival. While he had the bearing of a gallant young hero as he moved along the crowd, which had the effect of making people move aside for him as if he were the Emperor himself, Shen Qingqiu could tell the other's delight underneath the imposing figure he cut. Which made Shen Qingqiu also enjoy himself, much to his own amazement. He could not even find it within himself to be put off at how crowded it had become, as many people from outside of the city had also found their way here this night to celebrate. Shen Qingqiu simply enjoyed spending the time with Luo Binghe in such an almost domestic manner that had nothing to do with them being martial siblings on duty, but as two people who enjoyed each other's company.
“Look, Shixiong. They have river lanterns.” Luo Binghe pointed at a stall that sold all kinds of festive lanterns, including the mentioned river lanterns. “Shall we get some?”
Seeing no harm in it, Shen Qingqiu nodded along, “If you want to, little beast.”
Walking up towards the stall, Shen Qingqiu looked at the craftsmanship of the wares. The lanterns were of high quality and the artist behind them clearly was a master of their craft, something he as a scholar and fellow artist could appreciate.
One of the lanterns was then held underneath Shen Qingqiu's face, as Luo Binghe held it out towards him. “Here, Shixiong, that one is for you.”
The lantern Luo Binghe had picked out for him was truly beautiful to behold, with bright colours and an almost lifelike painting of flowers and birds upon it. It almost felt like a waste releasing it into the water, however Shen Qingqiu thought that it would waste its beauty if not.
Luo Binghe's hand found his own, giving him a gentle pull, “Come, Shixiong.” he lead him towards the close by river on which already some lanterns had been placed upon by others; looking like little stars as they slowly floated into the distance.
The pair walked up towards the edge of the river, where Luo Binghe crouched down. “You know, Shixiong,” Luo Binghe said in a soft voice as he placed the lit lantern onto the water, his eyes reflecting the glow of the lantern with a nostalgic expression on his face, “when I was little my mother and I used to visit the town festival every year. And every year she would always save up some money so that I could buy one thing for myself, like candy or a little toy. But to my mother's surprise I always wanted a lantern, because I always believed that if I told my biggest wish to a lantern it would take it with it and make it come true, which was much more worth to me than some candy or a toy ever could have been.” he reminiscent as he let go of his lantern, making it slowly follow the current. “However ever since my mother had passed, I had never again bought a river lantern because I never had any wishes that I wanted to be fulfilled. Until today, that is.”
Some part of Shen Qingqiu wanted to ask the other what kind of wishes he used to make or if he had made a wish now. Another part of him wanted to scoff at the idea that wishes would come true just because someone send off a lantern. Yet instead he said something else, “I have never send off a lantern like this, even during the lantern festivals.” he found himself saying, as he looked down at his own lantern still in his hand, “When I was young I was much too poor to afford lanterns. Most of the time I was too poor to even afford food or shelter. But I would always look at them from a distance and how other people would walk around with them, feeling jealous of them that they had something I could not have and do things I could not do. And yet, after I became a cultivator I had never bought one either. I had not seen the purpose of it any more.” Shen Qingqiu had never told anyone about this before. His past had been a well-kept secret, one he feared to be known. But he found he did not mind it as much when it was Luo Binghe whom he told this.
“Then you should make a wish now.” Luo Binghe encouraged him softly from beside him.
A wish? It was silly to make a wish over a paper lantern. It was not some magical artefact that could fulfil wishes. And yet…
He let go of the lantern, watching it gently float down the river, catching up with the one Luo Binghe had released before as slowly and silently they vanished into the distance, taking their wishes with them.
Only once the pair of little lights became impossible to see any longer did Shen Qingqiu move to get up. To find himself standing very close to Luo Binghe, much closer than he had been expecting, making him almost stumble backwards into the water.
But strong hands caught him, pulling him even closer until they were pressed flush against one another. “Careful.”
Heat spread over Shen Qingqiu's face as he looked up towards Luo Binghe, whose handsome face was illuminated in the warm light of the countless lanterns all around them.
“And, Shixiong,” Luo Binghe asked, his voice barely above a whisper but still loud enough to be heard within their close proximity, “what have you wished for?”
Shen Qingqiu could feel his heart beating wildly within his chest, as if it was threatening to jump out any moment now. What he had wished for? Could he ever dare to admit to his foolish wish? A wish to be more? A wish to be truly cared for? A wish to, just once in his life, have someone choose him? A wish for Luo Binghe to maybe like him back?
With a light tremble his lips parted to reply.
“Luo Shixiong, is that you?”
The pair jolted at the surprised voice, making them move apart and looked towards the source. Where slightly further away, close by the stall that had sold the lanterns that they had bought, stood a group of young women. Shen Qingqiu recognised them, they were members of Cang Qiong Mountain Sect, although neither high ranking ones nor from Qing Jing Peak. Shen Qingqiu could certainly not recall their names, but he was sure that he had seen them before in passing.
“Oh my goodness, it really is you, Luo Shixiong!” one of the women exclaimed in excitement, as she and her group walked up towards the river as well, “What a lovely coincidence.” As they came closer, they then noticed Shen Qingqiu's presence as well, who due to the position he and Luo Binghe were standing at had been almost hidden behind him moments before, “Oh, greetings to you as well, Shen Shixiong.” they all bowed respectfully.
“It really it a coincidence.” Luo Binghe nodded at the group of martial sisters as they joined them, “What brings you here?”
“Well, the three of us actually came from here before joining the sect, so we always come here for the holidays and festivals.” one of the group explained, as another asked, “How come the two of you are here?”
“We have been on a mission and decided to stay for the festival today.” Luo Binghe answered politely.
“Then you two must join us!” the first one, who had spotted them, exclaimed as she already began pulling Luo Binghe along, “We know all the best places in town.”
“Yes!” the second one nodded, “There is a restaurant here where the food is exquisite and you have to try it at least once before you leave.”
The three women chatted excitedly as they moved them along, as they practically clung onto Luo Binghe's arms like a group of excited school girls. All while Shen Qingqiu followed quietly along, watching them from behind.
He was a fool.
***
Shen Qingqiu had ended up leaving early and returned to the inn by himself, stating that he still had to finish writing his mission report before they got back. Which was a lie. Not only did he not have to write it before returning, but he had long finished it anyway. He had simply preferred sitting alone in the room of the inn to watch the fireworks go off in the distance through the window, than feeling like the third wheel as he watched Luo Binghe being surrounded by his endless admirers to whom Shen Qingqiu could simply never hold a candle to.
On their way back to the sect Luo Binghe had occasionally tried to talk to him about it, however as their martial sisters had decided to come along on the way back, as they had to quite literally go to the same destination, there was little chance at personal talks. Their martial sisters were very happy to use the chance to chat with Luo Binghe, a privilege many young women and men alike would often fight over.
It was later after his regular check up with Mu Qingfang, who had taken over Shen Qingqiu's medical care and did the regular check ups of his core after the previous generations of Peak Lords had ascended, where Shen Qingqiu overhears familiar voices talking when he had left the physician's office.
“You should have seen Luo Shixiong. He had looked miserable.”
It was the group of martial sisters they had met at the town festival, together with a few other members of the sect.
“Well, can you blame him?” another disciple, this one male, said. “I mean considering with what he is stuck doing with, you know who.” he made a face, “I would be miserable then too. I could never lower myself to doing something like that, even for the cultivation boots. It is just wrong and unnatural. Dual cultivation is supposed to be for married couples, not martial brothers.”
“That is because you aren't Luo Binghe.” one of the women gave the man a slight sneer. “Everyone knows that he is only doing the dual cultivation out of duty, not for any of the boosts. Not that he needs them anyway, since he is talented even without it.” she made a light waving motion, as if swatting the mere idea away. “After all it was his Shizun, the previous Qing Jing Peak Lord, who had asked him to do it and it is for his most senior martial brother. Anyone with even an amount of honour and duty would agree under these circumstances, regardless of how they feel about it.”
“Still poor Luo Shixiong.” another one sighed with sorrow on her face. “I can not blame him being miserable. I mean have you heard how people outside of the sect talk about him? They say things like that he slept his way up to the Elder position and is riding Shen Qingqiu's coat tails, now that he is the Qing Jing Peak Lord and Luo Binghe is the highest ranking Elder of the peak.” she started to get angry on Luo Binghe's behalf, “Can you imagine that? Luo Shixiong worked super hard and earned his rank as an esteemed elder and people are slandering him, because they do not know that he is simply too dutiful to drop his Shixiong.”
“That is all Shen Qingqiu's fault.” another one within the group sneered. “Seriously, why is such a cripple, who can't even use his cultivation without needing such depraved help, even Peak Lord? What was the former Qing Jing Peak Lord even thinking making him the successor and not someone like Luo Shixiong? Now Luo Shixiong is being degraded by both Shen Qingqiu, who uses his dutiful nature to make him lay with him, and from people outside who do not know what a great person Luo Shixiong truly is.”
But one of the group looked slightly sceptical. “Are you really sure that Luo Shixiong really only does the dual cultivation out of duty? I mean no one can deny that Shen Qingqiu, despite his temper, is a one of a kind beauty, despite being a man. Furthermore Luo Shixiong does not seem to mind being with Shen Qingqiu. He is always following him around.”
“That just shows that you have no idea.” one of the men waved the argument off. “I know for certain that Luo Shixiong wants an out, but that he is too dutiful to just leave his Shixiong to his own devices.”
This made the sceptical one raise an eyebrow. “Oh, and how do you know so certainly?” They did not seem to be denying the possibility, but simply seemed to want at least some proof.”
“Because I had once overheard Luo Shixiong talking to Mu Shixiong, not long after the whole thing had come out back then with Shen Qingqiu's core and all.” the man began to explain, “He had asked Mu Shixiong if anyone else within the sect had been found to be a match for Shen Qingqiu and his core, and Mu Shixiong had told him that after Luo Shixiong there had been an An Ding Peak martial brother who would have been the second pick. Not as fitting as Luo Shixiong had been, where they would have needed to probably dual cultivate even more often for the same effect, but it would have worked. Anyway Luo Shixiong then had went to talk to that martial brother not long after, probably to ask him to take over the job. But not long after that martial brother had suddenly left the sect, saying something about needing to care for his elderly parents. Which, if you ask me, is too much of a coincidence to be anything else but a cheap excuse. He probably just did not want to risk being pushed forward as the next candidate, if Luo Shixiong decided to stop doing it.”
Shocked gasps emerged from the group as they heard that tale from long ago, as everyone talked about it in hushed tones.
But Shen Qingqiu could not hear their words any more and how their conversation continued, as he jumped onto his sword and flew away before anyone could spot him.
He should have known. He should have always known that Luo Binghe considered the entire arrangement to be nothing but a burden, yet one he was too good of a person to reject either. Unlike Shen Qingqiu himself who was not kind in any way. He had been too selfish and too prideful to see the truth that he knew had always been there, clear as day. Of course Luo Binghe wanted a way out, but could not admit it, because it had indeed been their Shizun who had asked him and Shen Qingqiu indeed was his Shixiong. Luo Binghe could not say no, not under such circumstances when his seniors were putting pressure onto him.
Was Shen Qingqiu even any better than people like Wu Yanzi and Qiu Jianluo?
***
In the end Shen Qingqiu had spend multiple days within the Warm Red Pavilion with his jiejies, trying to forget his sorrows with their help as they soothed him and shared their wisdom with him, helping him grounding himself once more.
Of course he could not stay within the establishment forever to hide away like some child, and he had to return to the sect eventually. However he still needed time to himself to think, so he did his best to avoid Luo Binghe if he could.
But eventually the inevitable came and another month had passed by.
Shen Qingqiu sat within his bed chamber, looking out of the window to gaze at the stars above.
The door slid open and closed once more, after a certain someone entered the room. “Good evening, Shixiong.” Luo Binghe was all smiles.
Given the nature of their relationship and for how many years it had already been going on, Luo Binghe had long gained the honour of simply walking in and out of the Bamboo House as he pleased. There long had been no need for knocking and waiting to be summoned inside, as he instead moved about as if it were his own four walls. Shen Qingqiu had not specifically allowed it, by telling him that he could behave as if he was at home, but he had not stopped him either. It had simply evolved in that way on its own, because the truth simply was that Shen Qingqiu had come to enjoy the other's presence by his side.
Luo Binghe already begun their regular routine as he went to get and prepare everything that they would need for the dual cultivation. Which unlike the first time only involved some oils, but nothing else like aphrodisiac pills or, worse, any manuals. For the most part, as he also always prepared everything for afterwards as well, like a basin of water to wash themselves, something to drink, and often even a bit to eat that he would leave in the small kitchen in case either of them needed something to regain some more energy.
Only before he could get far in his usual routine, Shen Qingqiu spoke up, “You do not have to bother with these things, little beast.”
Luo Binghe, who had been absent-mindedly talking about something not truly important, stopped and looked at Shen Qingqiu in question. “What does Shixiong mean?”
Feeling like this conversation should be done face to face, Shen Qingqiu got up from where he sat and opened up his fan in front of his face. “This one has been doing some thinking about all of this and has come to the conclusion that we should end our arrangement with the dual cultivation.”
Despite Shen Qingqiu's own thoughts that this should be done 'face to face', he found himself unable to actually look at Luo Binghe's face, worrying that any of his own emotions could shine through. So he did not see the other's expression either.
“What? But why?” Luo Binghe asked him, his voice having an urged hint to it, “What about your core?”
“You will not need to worry about this one, little beast. I will manage.” Shen Qingqiu replied. It was for the best. They could not go on like this. Shen Qingqiu could not go on like this and he could not force Luo Binghe any further either. He already had taken way too much.
“And how?” he then asked him. “You have to do something about your core, Shixiong. Otherwise you will harm yourself and I can not let that happen.”
There it was again. Luo Binghe's dutiful nature, where he never could leave anyone in need be left behind, no matter how much it made him struggle in return. It was just like that time during the Immortal Alliance Conference, where Luo Binghe had been held back heavily due to babysitting a bunch of other useless disciples who had decided to follow him around for protection. It was a miracle he had still somehow managed to make first place by the end of it.
“As I have said before, you do not have to concern yourself with me and my core. I will manage. I always have.” Shen Qingqiu narrowed his eyes, his voice becoming more agitated as his emotions spiked, “I will find another treatment or someone else who can dual cultivate with me.” he sounded bitter. He knew that there was no other treatment and he knew that taking another partner would not solve the problem either as it would simply be one and the same as before just with a different victim. But Luo Binghe did not have to know that.
“No.”
The one single word from Luo Binghe made Shen Qingqiu's eyes widened, as he finally found it in himself to truly look at the other. “What do you mean, 'no'?” Could one even just say 'no' to something like ending an arrangement?
“I mean, no.” Luo Binghe repeated simply, but he looked almost distressed, “We both know that what you are suggesting is impossible. There is no other treatment that you could try and there is no one else who can dual cultivate with you either, Shixiong.” He walked up towards him, even as Shen Qingqiu tried to step back.
But there was nowhere to go to.
“It does not matter.” Shen Qingqiu retorted. “Are you little beast even aware about how people are talking about you?” Of course Luo Binghe knew. That man was no fool and he just as much had ears as Shen Qingqiu had to hear how they also always talked about him.
But Luo Binghe only scoffed, “What do I care what they are saying about me? These people are simply jealous of me.”
“Jealous of you? Maybe. But certainly not about your position as my dual cultivation partner.” Shen Qingqiu pointed out to him. “It is considered shameless and wrong for two people to be regular dual cultivation partners without actually being married.” he repeated the words he had heard back then as he once more tried to somehow put more distance between them both. After all, they were true. It was indeed considered shameful. Once during emergencies no one said anything. But on the regular? That was simply wrong in the eyes of the honourable Jianghu.
However once more Luo Binghe did not let him back away from him, as this time he grabbed Shen Qingqiu and held him by his arms, “Then marry me.”
“What?!” Shen Qingqiu almost choked on the air, as his mind raced trying to catch up and actually process what the other had just said. “Have you now truly lost your mind, little beast? We can not marry just to make people stop gossiping! Do you not have any self-respect or what?” He must have become insane. That must have been it. Surely he must be like Yue Qingyuan and felt much too guilty to let Shen Qingqiu harm himself, if he could stop it. But to even suggest marriage just for the sake of reputation was too much. That would certainly end up with Luo Binghe growing resentful of him eventually, being trapped in a marriage that he does not want, and that Shen Qingqiu could not stomach. He could not take being abandoned by someone he cared about again.
This made Luo Binghe jolt and suck in a breath. “Ah, no!” he shook his head vehemently, “This is not what I meant.” He looked at Shen Qingqiu once more, his expression so lost and desperate, “I do not want us to marry just to make people stop talking. Hell, they would continue talking no matter what we did.” That much was true and they both were aware about it. “The reason I want us to marry, is because I want to be married to you, Shixiong.” Luo Binghe reached up, pushing aside the fan that was hiding the other man, before his large and warm hand touched the side of Shen Qingqiu's face as he made him look at him. “I wanted to confess my feelings to you and ask you to marry me back at the festival, but then the Shimeis had suddenly turned up and I had missed the chance to do so…”
Shen Qingqiu stared at the other with a startled expression, his heat beating loudly that he could have sworn that anyone passing by outside could have surely heard it. But he closed his eyes tightly, shaking his head to remove the hand cradling it. “Stop lying.” he said, bitterly. He knew it was a lie. “I know that you went to Mu Shidi to ask him about who else could have done the dual cultivating with me and that you went to that Shidi from An Ding Peak to ask him to take your place.”
“What? Who told you that?” Luo Binghe looked at him with a startled and shamed expression, one like a child that got caught red handed.
“Does it matter?” Shen Qingqiu glared at him, trying to swallow his emotions. “All that matters is that I do know and that even I have enough honour to not further force you to anything just for the sake of my cultivation.”
“Shixiong, you are misunderstanding something.” Luo Binghe then however said, almost seeming amused at his own unfortunate situation. “It is true that I have really asked Mu Shidi about it and have been talking to that An Ding Peak Shidi. But not because I wanted him to take my place, but to make it clear to him that I will not let him or anyone else even think about taking my place or they would regret it. I went to all of them, same as anyone who dared to talk badly about you like that filth who started rumours about you using cauldrons.”
At this Shen Qingqiu could only stare at Luo Binghe in shock. Because he threatened his martial siblings and even people beyond the sect? Over him? “What? But why would you do that?”
This made Luo Binghe look a bit awkward and sheepish, “Well, this Shidi knows that Shixiong had found me very annoying back then and I was really worried that you would eventually try to choose someone else, even if it meant less effect from the treatment.” But then for a moment he looked outright terrifying, “While that filth who made these rumours deserved what happened to him.”
All possible words left Shen Qingqiu. He could barely believe it that Luo Binghe, the little beast who had basically no spine at all back then and had the bearing of a wet dog, had actually threatened other people and made then even leave the sect entirely, all because he did not want to risk Shen Qingqiu choosing someone else as a dual cultivation partner. Not to mention having done who knew what with some other people, who had been spreading rumours – not that Shen Qingqiu cared about their fate. And yet at the same time, after having spend so many years with that same little beast, he could deep down actually believe it, if he was honest with himself. Luo Binghe was indeed that possessive of a person and he indeed always had a bit of a darker side to him even back then. He was a wolf in sheep's clothing and always had been.
But Luo Binghe did not let Shen Qingqiu stew on that revelation for too long, as he once more spoke up. “There is also another thing that Shixiong is misunderstanding.” he wrapped his arms around him, pulling him into an embrace. “I have never been forced or pressured into doing anything that I did not want. In fact Shizun had come to me before she had told you about me being your match. And you know what, Shixiong?” he asked, but Shen Qingqiu could not find the ability to speak and ask what the other meant. Not that he needed to, as Luo Binghe continued with a tender smile, “When Shizun explained the situation to me, I had volunteered before she had even gotten the chance to ask me if I would do it. Because I have always liked you, even back then, and being given the chance to be by your side and to hold you and care for you, when I knew that you would not tolerate my presence any other way, was like the greatest blessing I could have been given. I knew that you did not like me, but I still wanted to be with you, even if it was just as your dual cultivation partner. But then we grew closer and I got more and more greedy and I simply do not want to be away from you.”
Shen Qingqiu felt as if something heavy blocked up his throat, but he still managed to force his lips to part as he asked in a shaking voice, “But… but why?” Why would Luo Binghe want something like that, with someone as horrible as him? Someone who had a bad temper. Someone who had such a sordid past? Someone who was as unlikeable as him?
“Because I am in love with you.” Luo Binghe then loosened his embrace to instead kneel down in front of him, holding Shen Qingqiu's hands tightly in his own trembling one, “So please do me the honour of marrying me, Shixiong.” he nearly begged and with not a single hint of shame about it. He wanted him. He truly wanted him by his side. Shen Qingqiu was wanted.
Biting his lip, Shen Qingqiu looked down at the man in front of him. He knew that this was surely a bad idea. That surely things had to go wrong. That it was too good to be true. But yet Shen Qingqiu simply for once wanted to be truly selfish and to be happy, just for once in his life. “Then I guess this one has to accept. Someone has to keep you insane beast under control, as you have clearly gone mad.” he scoffed.
“Thank you!” Luo Binghe jumped up and captured Shen Qingqiu's lips in a kiss, as he pulled him into his arms.
This was by far not their first kiss. When they had only begun with dual cultivating Shen Qingqiu had forbidden him from kissing him. But that had not lasted long. What had started with accidental brushes of lips – although now that he thought about it, he was not sure if they had really been accidental on Luo Binghe's part – had eventually turned into full kisses, messy and needy. But they had always been during their dual cultivation, never outside of it. But it felt just as good and Shen Qingqiu melted into the kiss, his arms wrapping around Luo Binghe's neck as the other deepened it.
Being lost in their kiss, Shen Qingqiu did not notice how Luo Binghe had begun making them move until Shen Qingqiu's legs met the edge of his bed and they both tumbled upon it. A small gasp escaped Shen Qingqiu at the sudden fall and the larger body now pressing down upon him. But when he felt Luo Binghe's lips at his throat, he could not find it in himself to complain and instead he moved his head to the side to give the other more access.
“This one will find us a fortune teller first thing in the morning, to have them find an auspicious date for us to marry at.” Luo Binghe's hands roamed along Shen Qingqiu's sides, “One as soon as possible.”
As the hands were touching him through the thin silks of his robes, Shen Qingqiu felt his body tremble in their wake. “Auspicious dates can not be chosen like that.” he reminded him, even if his mind barely managed to care about such details when having the other on top of him like that and he could feel his desire push into his belly. “You get what you are given by the heavens.”
“For you, I would defy the heavens and have them give us an auspicious date as close as possible.” Luo Binghe's hands found the other's belt, which he untied with practised fingers before letting them dip underneath the parting robes to touch the heated skin beneath, “Though one that still gives us enough time to prepare a proper wedding. This fiancé would love to see this one's future wife in beautiful red.”
The title that Luo Binghe had claimed for himself made Shen Qingqiu shiver and feel his own desire grow more and more. Fiancé. Yes, he liked that word. But not as much as he will like calling Luo Binghe his husband.
“But just so that you know, future husband,” Shen Qingqiu grabbed him by the back of his neck and pulled him down until their noses brushed, “I am not one to share. So if you dare to just as much as look at anyone else, I will personally end you and anyone who dares to even try to take you away from me.”
Luo Binghe's dark eyes seemed to almost flare with desire and lust, clearly enjoying Shen Qingqiu's greedy nature, “Why would I ever want anyone else, if I got the most perfect wife right here?” His lips found Shen Qingqiu's own once more, as his tongue slid its way into his fiancé's mouth to taste him.
Both sitting up for a moment, neither willing to break their kiss, Luo Binghe made quick work of Shen Qingqiu's clothing as he slipped them off his frame. Not once did he allow his hands to stray for too long, as they roamed every inch of newly exposed skin, setting every part they touched alight.
Shen Qingqiu was not idle either as he too undid Luo Binghe's robes and slid them from his body, his fingers finding the hard muscles underneath and touching them and feeling them as he pleased. Luo Binghe practically radiated raw power, his body and muscles being defined and strong. Such strength and power in a man should have terrified Shen Qingqiu, yet all he felt was desire and a sense of safety.
“You are so beautiful.” Luo Binghe whispered as their kiss finally broke. But his lips once more found Shen Qingqiu, kissing down his neck to his collarbone, “So damn tempting.” further down he went to his pale chest that had taken on a rose coloured hue, “This one can never have enough of you, A-Jiu.” his lips then closed around one of Shen Qingqiu's nipples and sucked.
A high pitch gasp escaped Shen Qingqiu and his back arched off the bed, pressing his chest further into Luo Binghe's eager mouth as he sucked and licked the hardened bud. Needing more Shen Qingqiu grabbed the other's head, holding him in place as he spread his legs further, allowing the others to hold him close and nestle in-between them. “So I had not misheard.” he said between quickened breaths, “You had called me 'A-Jiu' back then.”
Lifting his head from the other's chest, the little bud now having turned all red and puffy as it glistened in the candle light, Luo Binghe gave him a sheepish grin, “Does A-Jiu like it?” he gave the other nipple a kiss, before giving it a gentle bite.
Shen Qingqiu made a low, but pleasured, hum. “This one guesses that it is not too bad, when it is you calling me that.”
“Only I get to call my future wife that.” Luo Binghe grinned at him. “Anyone else who tries that, this husband will silence.” he once more continued lavishing his chest with attention.
A shiver ran down Shen Qingqiu's spine at the possessiveness of the other. Much to his own surprise, he liked it very much having someone who wanted him this much. Someone who would go above and beyond for him. Someone who would never abandon him. Someone like Luo Binghe, the mad little beast that he was.
When one of Luo Binghe's hands began to wander down his body, Shen Qingqiu automatically opened up for him, welcoming the familiar hand at his most intimate area. Oiled up fingers found his entrance, circling it and massaging it, before finally sinking inside and making Shen Qingqiu give a small moan.
“You are so sensitive today.” Luo Binghe blew against Shen Qingqiu's damp nipple, enjoying how it made him tremble with growing need.
For a moment Shen Qingqiu bit his thumb to silence his small moans, as he felt the long and deft fingers move within him to stretch him. “You are, gnh, are imagining things, beast.”
As if wanting to prove a point, Luo Binghe pushed in another finger, knowing exactly just how much and how quickly Shen Qingqiu could take it, same as how much he loved it being filled. At this Shen Qingqiu made a keening sound and he could feel himself already leaking from pleasure. The long fingers bend and pushed against that part that always made Shen Qingqiu see stars, causing him to moan out and bury his hands into the bedding to ground himself.
“Does A-Jiu like this?” Luo Binghe whispered, his breath hot against his skin. “Does my future wife want more?”
It felt so good that Shen Qingqiu could barely take it already. But yet it was nearly not enough that it was maddening. “Stop, ah! Stop messing around.” Shen Qingqiu pushed himself further against the fingers, “Get on with it.”
“So needy.” Luo Binghe chuckled, before he then pulled out his fingers, leaving Shen Qingqiu feeling empty. “But how could this devoted husband ever deny my wife anything?”
Kneeling between Shen Qingqiu's spread legs, he took the other by the hips and lifted them up upon his thighs as he aligned his heavy cock with his waiting entrance. But for a moment he simply lingered, looking down at Shen Qingqiu with a soft expression. “You really look beautiful, A-Jiu.”
Despite the many times that they had sex over the last few years, Shen Qingqiu was not used to sentimentality. So he found himself feeling his cheeks and ears, all the way to the back of his neck, heat up. “Stop talking nonsense!” he protested. He wanted to hide himself, but there was no way to do so in any kind of elegant manner other than to hide his face behind his arms.
Only for Luo Binghe to move his arms away once more to give him a tender kiss. “It is the truth. You are beautiful and this one is so happy that I get to be with you like this, A-Jiu.”
He then pushed his hips forward and Shen Qingqiu moaned out loudly as he felt the thick member slowly enter him, pushing in deeper and deeper with shallow thrusts. Luo Binghe was huge. He was much above average in size and it had taken a lot of practise for Shen Qingqiu to get used to it. But now he loved the feeling of it, how it would stretch him beyond anything that should have been possible, and how it made him feel so full in the most perfect way. Shen Qingqiu could feel every inch that entered him, filling him entirely like they were meant to be one and to complete one another.
Once Luo Binghe bottomed out both were left gasping for breath and Luo Binghe simply held him close in his arms, keeping him secure and safe. Shen Qingqiu could have almost purred as he was lavished with kisses and tender affection while sweet nothings were whispered against his skin.
However Luo Binghe had never been the patient type, not when it came to relations between the sheets. So the moment he knew that Shen Qingqiu was relaxed enough, he began to move slowly.
Shen Qingqiu let his head fall into the bedding beneath him as a low moan left him. Once again Luo Binghe's lips found his throat, sucking right on his pulse point until a mark was sure to be left behind.
“All mine.” he nibbled in the pale skin as he littered it in bites and kisses, “A-Jiu is all mine. My wife.”
Letting his slim legs wrap around Luo Binghe's waist, Shen Qingqiu pulled him closer, pushed him in even deeper into his willing body. “And you little beast are mine.” he declared, “My husband.”
As if something snapped within Luo Binghe, he let go of his restraint with a hungry growl as he captured Shen Qingqiu's lips in a passionate and dominating kiss while his slow and careful movements turned wild and hard.
Moaning into the kiss Shen Qingqiu wrapped his arms around the other man, his fingernails digging into the broad and strong back with the knowledge how much the other enjoyed the sting.
Their tongues danced around each other as their kiss turned messy and needy, saliva running down the edge of Shen Qingqiu's mouth. But he did not care. He wanted more. He wanted all of it. He wanted everything that Luo Binghe had to give.
But then all of the sudden the world spun when suddenly Shen Qingqiu found himself on top of Luo Binghe, their positions having been flipped over. The new position allowed Luo Binghe's thick cock to push in even deeper, as Shen Qingqiu's own body weight pulled him down, causing Shen Qingqiu's to moan and gasp in both surprised and pleasure.
Luo Binghe's strong hands held him tightly around his waist, almost entirely encircling it with ease, where he made the smaller man bounce up and down his cock while at the same time snapping his own hips up to meet him every time.
To brace himself Shen Qingqiu placed his hands on the other's shoulders as he held on for what felt like dear life. The cock inside of him reached unbelievably deep, rearranging his insides as if wanting to burn its shape into him. Every thrust set his body alight and made his toes curl in unfathomable pleasure.
“You know, A-Jiu?” Luo Binghe said, his voice breathless and sultry, “I think I do agree with aunty Xun. Maybe we should try for a child after we are married.” he leaned forward, kissing the flustered chest in front of him. So he had overheard them after all.
Despite himself, Shen Qingqiu trembled and ached deeply that these words. But he still remembered to shake his head as he wrapped his arms around his fiancé. “We are both men.” he managed to stutter out. With how his body was burning from the inside out, it was hard to keep any coherent thought.
“There are ways for everything.” Luo Binghe fucked hard into him, the sound of skin slapping against skin filling to room alongside their pleasured moans, “Until then this husband is more than happy to try for one.”
As if indeed being out to impregnate a man without any aid of magic, Luo Binghe's movements became almost erratic and impossibly deep, his thrusts hard and forceful as his cock hit every sensitive spot within Shen Qingqiu's body. Shen Qingqiu felt as if his mind turned to mush as any ability to think left him entirely to be replaced by mind-numbing pleasure. While all Shen Qingqiu could do was to cling onto Luo Binghe for support and call out his name as his body was being manhandled by him as his fiancé pleased. It felt so good as Shen Qingqiu let himself be lost in pure ecstasy, his body burning brightly from this raw pleasure given to him by the man he loved.
Until he could not take it any more and almost like an explosion going off he came hard, moaning and mewling in blinding pleasure, as wave after wave of it hit him, making him see white. He could hear Luo Binghe groan as he pulled him down one final time, pushing his hips flush against Shen Qingqiu's behind and burying himself as deep as it was possible as he emptied himself out inside of him, filling him up with heat until it overflowed. All while their spiritual energies began to mix and heighten their senses even more, prolonging their shared bliss for even longer.
But then, like having his strings snapped, Shen Qingqiu turned boneless almost within an instant. But he did not fall as strong arms held him safe and secure, letting him rest against Luo Binghe's broad chest.
Shen Qingqiu enjoyed the moment of the afterglow as he was being held tenderly, only opening his eyes when he felt gentle fingers push away a strand of hair from his now with sweat damp forehead.
Luo Binghe looked at him with a tender expression that was filled with endless adoration. But then something seemed to occur to him, which made him give a cheeky grin. “A-Jiu, I just realised that you had cum from only doing it from the behind. Did you enjoy it that much?”
Heat found its way into Shen Qingqiu's face at the realisation that the other was right. Which made him move to hide his face in the chest of that infuriating beast, “Oh, you better shut up, beast.” he gave him a weak slap on his arm, “At least I did not orgasm before even properly starting.”
This time Luo Binghe was the one to blush, but he still chuckled at his own expense. “That was only one time, and can I really be blamed? It was my first time and with such a beauty at that. It simply felt too good.” he kissed Shen Qingqiu's hair, “But ever since then this one had always made sure to pleasure A-Jiu first and foremost.”
That, Shen Qingqiu could not deny. After their awkward and embarrassing fumbling during their first time dual cultivating, Luo Binghe had made an effort to find way to bring pleasure to Shen Qingqiu. He had always put him first, inside of the bed and outside of it as well. No matter where or when, Luo Binghe had always been considerate of him in everything he had done. Was it a wonder that Shen Qingqiu had fallen for him so easily?
“Does A-Jiu want to take a bath?” Luo Binghe asked after their little banter concluded, his hands running soothing circles along Shen Qingqiu's back.
For a moment Shen Qingqiu hummed in thought, before he closed his eyes. “Later.”
Smiling at this, Luo Binghe adjusted their position into something more comfortable, allowing Shen Qingqiu to rest in his arms, as he pulled the nearby blanket over them both. “Then later.” he kissed Shen Qingqiu's forehead, holding him in his arms with all the love and affection he had to give while their hearts beat as one.