Chapter Text
Shen Qingqiu knew his heart was cold and bitter.
The life he lived was unmerciful and taught him a long time ago to shred out every emotion inside himself. To leave behind a cold void that he refused to fill. For why fill something that would just be ripped out of you again?
No, better to have something empty so that way you remain strong.
Shen Qingqiu knew that the other peak lords and disciples didn’t see him in a good light.
But again, why should he conform to their standards? Why should he try to defend his person when they already made an opinion of him? In the end, it did not matter.
He did not care that the other Peak Lords saw him as scum.
He did not care that the disciples on the other peaks viewed him in the same way.
He did not care that his own disciples feared him and kept their distance.
Shen Qingqiu didn’t care because he was already numb to everything. Nothing really mattered to him except for the day to day survival. He didn’t need anything or anyone.
He was content in being alone and has already accepted the knowledge he will forever be alone.
So Shen Qingqiu was baffled and angered at the damn spirit that suddenly appeared before him as he finished up a mission.
“You must be mistaken.” Shen Qingqiu hissed, fanning himself as he stared at the beautiful creature before him. Trying his damn hardest not to spit venom at the great spirit or god as he knew the power they held were great.
The creature before him resembled a beautiful crane. But, this creature was as large as the trees and had eight magnificent wings. It’s eyes glowed an eerie gold as the creature continued to try and push the elegantly woven basket to him.
“ I am not, Peak Lord Shen Qingqiu. ” the creature spoke, though his beak never moved.
“Why would I wish for such a… thing.” Shen Qingqiu snarled, staring down at the basket with disgust as the silk blankets inside moved just a little.
“ You did. ” the being said.
“When?! When would I have wished for such a thing?!” Shen Qingqiu demanded, remembering no such wish he made to have such a thing in his life.
“ During the full moon you came to my shrine and prayed with every ounce of your being. You had left the offering of several flowers and the little food you had with you. ”
Shen Qingqiu frowned at the statement and tried to remember doing such a thing. He scrambled to remember a time he ever prayed to a shrine or a god. Having thought such things useless as he was beaten into the ground and starved without mercy.
Unless…
Shen Qingqiu eyes widened at the time before he was given to the slavers. When he was still with those wretched humans that called themselves his parents. How he desperately wished at a shrine for… a baby.
‘Damn it.’ Shen Qingqiu cursed in his mind. Cursing at his younger self for being so stupid and idiotic to wish for such a thing. He remembered the reasoning as well. He often saw how babies were so dependent on someone and gave whoever care for them affection.
Shen Qingqiu’s ideology of babies was warped. But, for a moment, he had a strong want for a baby for the sole reason of having something completely dependent on him and that that wouldn’t leave. Well really, couldn't leave, considering babies were basically bags of flesh that could barely move from one spot during a period of their life until they gain enough brains and muscle to figure out how to move. Which, again Shen Qingqiu's unhealty and warped thinking, saw this as delightful as he craved for anything to give him affection that wouldn't run away from him.
Considering the monsters he had for parents that barely paid him attention let alone cared for him. He knew that was the time he actually still held hope for some semblance of affection and love. So, in his idiocy he went to the shrine all the woman talked about.
A shrine that would help give a someone a baby.
He prayed at the stupid shrine and gave it meager offerings. The last of his food as well as flowers he took several days to find in order to get only prettiest one. He made the wish and slept with a hope in his heart that he would wake up with a baby beside him.
Instead, he woke up to be given to slavers.
‘I can still save myself from this.’ Shen Qingqiu thought, as he slowly calmed his fanning.
“That was years ago in the desperation of a idiotic child.” Shen Qingqiu calmly stated, staring at the creature who slowly bowed its head a little.
“ Yes, I was never able to grant you your wish at the time. For that night a cultivator in gold had wrongfully sealed me away. It was only until recently that I have broken free and here to give you the wish you paid for. ” the creature informed, pushing the basket it held in its feet closer to Shen Qingqiu.
“You granted a wish from a stupid child?! My offerings weren’t even substantial for the wish!” Shen Qingqiu countered, but the being just shook its head.
“ Food was something you did not have and yet you gave willingly. The flowers were something you painfully worked hard to find. It was more than enough to grant you your wish. ” the crane stated, unfolding all of it’s eight wings to reach for the skies.
“ Peak Lord Shen Qingqiu, the life you lived has left you cold and dark. So I give you my blessings and the baby you wish for. ” The crane spoke, it’s voice booming in Shen Qingqiu’s head that almost made him drop his fan in surprise.
Quickly, the mighty and powerful spirit shoved the basket in Shen Qingqiu’s arms. Not giving the immortal the chance to give the precious bundle back as it flew into the air with a flap of it's many powerful wings.
“ May happiness be in forever in your future. ”
With that the spirit left as it flew up into the night sky with both speed and grace befitting it's power. Vanishing into the thick clouds and leaving behind a furious immortal cultivator.
“YOU GET BACK HERE!” Shen Qingqiu shouted, staring venomously at the retreating form of the great spirit.
Great Spirit his ass.
He’ll make sure he’s going to be the next cultivator seal away the damn bird away.
“Damn it.” Shen Qingqiu cursed, knowing he was now stuck with the damn basket that held the damn baby in it.
Shen Qingqiu glared down at the covered bundle that was giving him the biggest headache of his life. He had half a mind to dump the baby in the river, leave it in the elements, or even feed it to the wolves to prove a point at the damn bird.
“Wretched thing.” Shen Qingqiu snarled, gripping the blanket covering the baby to pull it away. Having half the mind to torment the little thing when he stopped in his tracks.
For striking green eyes that matched his own greeted him.
The little baby boy blinked in confusion at his covering being taken off. Furrowing his brows at the cold and yet staring up at Shen Qingqiu with wonder. It only took half a second for the baby to let out a joyful cry as little hands reached up towards him.
“He looks…. Like me.” Shen Qingqiu mumbled, studying the baby as he continued to desperately reach out for him.
He’d admit the damn bird was spot on. The baby not only had his eyes, but his nose and hair as well. But, there were other features of the baby that reminded him of someone very familiar in his life that made his chest flare up in anger and betrayal.
But, he squashed it down as he continued to stare at the baby. Who started to make more annoying noises and even started tearing up.
“What? What is the matter with you?” Shen Qingqiu hissed, watching the baby desperately reach out for him.
The baby boy in turn started letting out little wails as he continued his desperate attempt to get closer to the man. Making Shen Qingqiu brow twitch in annoyance as he tried to figure out a way to shut the baby up.
Yelling at it and telling it to stop didn’t seem to work.
He’s pretty sure he can’t stuff something in the boy’s mouth or else the wretched baby will probably choke.
Thinking that the baby was injured Shen Qingqiu placed the basket on the ground before finally…
… bringing the bundle into his arms.
Immediately the baby boy stopped and started to blink away the tears in his eyes. For a moment the two just stared at each other and allowed the silence to encircle around them.
But, after a small moment the little baby boy smiled once again and let out a joyous giggle.
Shen Qingqiu stared down at the baby in surprise thinking of two things.
One, something was clearly wrong with this baby for him to be happy being held in his arms.
Two… he cancelled the plans of feeding the boy to the wolves.
“You will need a name.” Shen Qingqiu mumbled, staring down at the little one as he continued to giggle and laugh.
Shen Qingqiu couldn’t help the name that slipped past his lips.
“Yuan… you’ll be Yuan… Shen Yuan”
Shen Qingqiu was glad he was in the middle of the forest for his raged filled curses and the giggles of the baby could probably wake up the dead.
“... And that is how you got a baby.”
“Yes, I already explained it to you several times.”
“Yes… but, I’m a little bit… amazed by your tale. I would disbelieve you if it weren’t for how much that baby looks like you and how I know you haven’t bedded a woman. At least, not at my fine establishment nor the others close by.”
“Careful of your words.” Shen Qingqiu lightly scolded, gently feeding Shen Yuan milk as the baby was protectively held in his arms. Staring at his main informant, Madam Yu Yan, as she gave Shen Qingqiu a fond look.
Yes, Shen Qingqiu had… hurried to the most trusted brothel he could think of. He knew next to nothing about babies. He was barely able to take care of his disciples. So he went the one place that always had information for him.
Also he knew Shen Yuan was getting very hungry from the determined suckling he was doing on his finger. Thankfully, Shen Qingqiu was close to the main brothel he used for information gathering and sleeping.
Madam Yu Yan was the head of the brothel and immediately ushered Shen Qingqiu in through the back when she saw the bundle in his arms. It was quick work to get him a milk pouch that had a little nub at the end of it for Shen Yuan to suckle on.
Of course, Shen Qingqiu made sure the milk pouch was cleaned spotless and poured a little bit of spiritual energy into the milk. Even if Shen Yuan couldn’t get the real thing he ensured he at least got good quality milk that would nourish his tiny body.
“So, you have a baby now. Given to you by a Great Spirit known to bestow babies to women trying for one.” Madam Yu Yan concluded, taking a long sip of her wine as she stared at Shen Qingqiu.
“Yes.” Shen Qingqiu grumbled, taking the milk pouch away from Shen Yuan once he saw he was finished. He gently patted the baby until he burped like the many women in the brothel showed him. Doing so until a small little burp came out and Shen Yuan let out a sigh of content over his shoulder.
“... And you’re already attached I see.”
“What are you talking about?” Shen Qingqiu asked, getting Madam Yu Yan to arch a brow as she looked at the clothes Shen Yuan was wearing. Shen Yuan wore beautiful green baby robes that made him look like a little prince.
There were also a few stuffed toys in the basket that Shen Yuan came with. All of them of high quality and extremely soft looking with the looks of it.
Shen Qingqiu huffed, as he held Shen Yuan close.
“I can’t have Yuan be in nothing! The greedy boy would give me a headache if he got sick! And he can’t possibly be in rags! No, I still have an image to uphold.” Shen Qingqiu hugged, flicking out his fan once one of his arms and hands were free.
This made Shen Yuan stare at the fan in awe and giggle with glee when Shen Qingqiu started fanning him. Making all of the brothel women in the room secretly squeal inside at the adorable sight. Though they didn't dare show it on their faces or make any noises knowing well how Shen Qingqiu was.
“... Indeed.” Madam Yu Yan drawled, shaking her head at Shen Qingqiu as she palced down her wine cup.
“I thank you for your information as always.” Shen Qingqiu said, pushing a small pouch of money towards Madam Yu Yan. The woman stared at the pouch before shaking her head and pushing it back towards the other.
“No, this time we will give the information for free.” Madam Yu Yan said, a faint smile on her lips as she watched Shen Yuan try his hardest at grabbing at the fan. A little game being played between the two as Shen Yuan barely grasps the beautiful item.
Shen Qingqiu shook his head and sternly pushed the money towards the Madam again. He gave her a hard look as he pushed the pouch a little further towards her before sitting back once again.
“No, take it for the information and items… just think of it as an investment for your services.” Shen Qingqiu spoke, his voice soft and quiet. Making Madam Yu Yan sigh as she reluctantly took the offered money. The woman knowing all too well how Shen Qingqiu had probably placed in far more money than what information or items given.
The both of them knowing that the money will help getting the girls medications or treatments when… unruly customers arrived. Or to help a girl quietly disappear if something was hunting her.
If nothing else, it could buy them protection.
Shen Qingqiu knew all too well the life many of the women in the brothel lived. Being a constant visitor and having them as his personal spies. He knew the everyday torture and struggles they go through that were so hauntingly familiar to him. Which is why he usually overpays them to help relieve some of that life.
He wouldn’t call them friends or allies…
… but, he ensured to care for his neutral acquaintances to keep their loyalty.
Though, all the girls knew that was a lie with the smiles hidden behind their elegant sleeves.
“Fine, we needed a few more guards for the girls.” Madam Yu Yan said, making Shen Qingqiu eye the massive dog that was in the room. Dutifully guarding the room and keeping an eye out for danger that would hurt the women inside.
A new defense in the brothels.
Shen Qingqiu, while detesting those mongrels, saw their use.
At least those beasts could be loyal to the hand that feeds them.
“What are you going to do when you return?”
Well if that wasn’t a loaded question.
“... My business is my own. Besides, they actively avoid me unless there is a dire meeting.” Shen Qingqiu murmured, putting the fan away to give Shen Yuan his fingers. The baby let out a few huffs of delight as he gripped the offered appendages his beautiful big eyes sparkling with such joy that it made something warm blossom in his chest.
Madam Yu Yan and the other girls in the room silently tensed. They all knew what the other immortals thought of Shen Qingqiu. Many of them scoffing and spitting curses at the immortal cultivators for their ignorance.
But, they could do nothing.
Even if they desperately wanted to protect the one man that showed them respect and gave them a kindness rarely seen in their line of work.
“... Peak Lord Shen, know that you and your son will always be welcome here.” Madam Yu Yan sincerely whispered, getting Shen Qingqiu to nod his head as he looked down at Shen Yuan.
His son…
Honestly, if it weren’t the fact that Shen Qingqiu was actively sneaking into his own peak. He would generously punish his senior disciples for the lack of security his peak seemed to have. Breaking in was far too easy and Shen Qingqiu had to hold in the venom he wanted to spit.
He would need to heighten security. What if something invaded the peak with little Shen Yuan in it? Unacceptable! He’ll have to re-look at the barriers and protective seals too.
Qing Jing Peak wasn’t some hilltop anyone could walk over! It was one of the twelve peaks of Cang Qiong Mountain! He would be damned if he let his peak get infiltrated so easily.
But, he would need to think of that at a later time as he carefully closed the door to his house. Sighing in annoyance as his body still remained a little tense even in the comforts of his own house.
After so many decades nothing here gave him any reason to be fully comfortable.
Shen Qingqiu looked down at the baby in his arms. The little one had fallen asleep during the flight here and had thankfully continued to sleep when he sneaked into his own peak. Shen Qingqiu was thankful for carrying extra qiankun bags. Without them he be carrying his child and the many items he had for him.
The girls at the brothel gave him a plethora of items he would need to care for Shen Yuan. Along with detailed written instructions and encouragements to come visit them again soon.
“Greedy boy.” Shen Qingqiu whispered, gently caressing the baby’s cheek as he continued to sleep.
“Only been in my life a few days and caused me so many headaches. At this point, I might have a permanent migraine.” Shen Qingqiu grumbled, stepping into his room and gently laying both of them in his bed. He made sure to cushion his son's body with a few blankets and pillows. Making a note to himself to do something to make the bed softer for his son to lay on.
Shen Qingqiu stared at the baby as he continued to sleep peacefully. Listening to his little soft breaths as he watched his little chest rise and fall.
Shen Yuan was so small and fragile.
It was difficult to comprehend that he was once like this.
At that thought Shen Qingqiu couldn’t help the barrage of memories. Ones that made him grip the sheets until his knuckles were white and a cold sweat to run down his face.
‘No.’ Shen Qingqiu thought, reaching out with shaking fingers to place a hand over Shen Yuan’s small body.
“I won’t let that happen to you.” Shen Qingqiu promised, swearing an oath in his heart. The action caused Shen Qingqiu to bitterly laugh as he brought the baby closer to him.
“What are you doing to me?”
“Madam, you’re saying this crane spirit granted a wish that happened decades ago?”
“Yes.”
“...”
“... Better late than never.”
Keeping a baby secret…
… was actually pathetically easy.
In fact, Shen Qingqiu was so frustrated over the stupidity of about every single person on the twelve peaks. While Shen Qingqiu knew he should be glad about this as Shen Yuan’s safety was a top priority and he deemed everyone else a hazard to his baby’s health.
It was still maddening at the fact that not even the other PEAK LORDS suspected a thing.
Seriously, even the fool Yue Qingyuan didn’t seem to notice anything!
This made Shen Qingqiu question again if he should even raise Shen Yuan here. What if the stupidity was contagious? What if his poor baby caught wind of all this blubbering foolishness and became just as dimwitted?
Not on his watch!
This was the reason why he started reading Shen Yuan advanced text books and scrolls during bedtimes. Enriching Shen Yuan’s mind at a young age of the good knowledge that needs to be learned.
It didn’t matter if Shen Yuan didn’t understand it right now.
He would in time.
But, yes, Shen Qingqiu was disappointed and embarrassed as a whole with the entire twelve peaks. But, eventually deciding to just go with the flow at this point and take advantage of it. Telling himself to be thankful as this kept Shen Yuan in the shadows from prying eyes.
So yes, it had already been a full month since Shen Qingqiu brought Yuan into the peak.
Life hasn’t changed too much for Shen Qingqiu.
Even before Shen Yuan came to his life. Shen Qingqiu was known to be a very determined loner that didn't like anyone's company. Only coming out to check on his disciples every once an awhile before leaving for his bamboo house.
Shen Qingqiu did much the same thing still. Though he only very briefly now checked on his disciples before returning to Shen Yuan's side. Of course, he only left when his son was sleeping and of course placed several arrays that would notify him of Shen Yuan's status at all times.
He DID punish the senior disciples on guard duty and upped their training. He also had renewed the arrays, seals, and barriers of the peak. Placing some extra ones in his house as he still didn’t feel like it was safe enough for Shen Yuan.
And if you thought the younger disciples were spared then think again.
Shen Qingqiu poured a lot of his frustration into those brats.
How can his son be more well mannered than those ‘older’ mutts?
Obviously, Shen Qingqiu needed to teach them harder to be the respectable disciples that Qing Jing Peak was known for. They were scholars! Not some battle hungry beasts like those in Bai Zhan or heaven forbid like those cowards in An Ding Peak!
So, even though Shen Qingqiu was more distant than before. His training was more intense and stricter to make up for his abscence. Making the cries of many of his disciples be heard on the other peaks who shivered at their agony.
Usually, the only loud cries they heard was from Bai Zhan whenever their Peak Lord came around to ‘train’ or ‘test’ them.
With all of that going on Shen Qingqiu's life with Shen Yuan was going well.
In fact, it was going too well.
It made Shen Qingqiu drop his guard and became unprepared when...
… Shen Yuan got a fever.
“A-Yuan? A-Yuan, what is wrong?” Shen Qingqiu asked, noticing how miserably his son was. His baby had small tears in his eyes and his cheeks looked a little flush. Soft coughs were sputtering out every now and then making Shen Qingqiu heart clench.
His hands quickly raced over the baby’s face to feel the unusual touch of warmth the soft skin emitted. While Shen Yuan was warm, this warmth wasn’t something he felt before and it was much hotter than the baby usually gave off.
“A-Yuan.” Shen Qingqiu fearfully whispered as panic started to settle into his mind and body. His child let out little whimpers as he weakly reached out for him with an exhausted desperation that scared the immortal cultivator. Making Shen Qingqiu quickly scoop him up into his arms as he tried to think of what to do. His blood ran cold and a thousands thoughts were running through his head.
He needed to do something!
What can he do?!
He needed…
Without even thinking Shen Qingqiu burst out of his house. Basically breaking down the door as he raced out and wildly looked around the area.
He couldn’t possibly go on his sword for help! What if that just made Shen Yuan worse? No, he needed to run there as fast as he could.
With that thought in mind Shen Qingqiu raced out of his peak and onto the rainbow bridge. Not caring for the surprised and worried faces of his disciples as they saw their Peak Lord in such a state.
But, Shen Qingqiu didn’t care.
He needed…
He needed…
Shen Qingqiu didn’t care how he looked as he continued to run as fast as he could with Shen Yuan in his arms. Not carrying how his hair started to get messy or that his robes became disarrayed.
He didn’t care for how undignified he looked as he arrived at Qiong Ding Peak. Startling the disciples there as he continued to rush to the only person he could think of while holding Shen Yuan close.
Never realizing he was putting his hope in that person once again.
Shen Qingqiu almost broke down another door as he stormed into Yue Qingyuan’s office. Uncaring for anyone else in the room as he hurried to Yue Qingyua who immediately stood up alarmed at Shen Qingqiu frantic state.
“Xia- Shen Shidi! What is wrong?!” Yue Qingyuan asked, reaching out towards Shen Qingqiu and was surprised at how close Shen Qingqiu came to him. Shoving a bundle towards his face that looked at him miserably with the same eyes as his precious Xiao Jiu.
“A-Yuan! Something is wrong with A-Yuan!” Shen Qingqiu shouted, desperate to get help and answers for his child.
Yue Qingyuan, while confused, quickly took the baby into his arms and checked him over. Noticing his fever quickly and placing a cool hand onto the baby’s forehead. Making Shen Yuan whimper just a little bit before sagging in relief at the cold hand. Seeing this made Shen Qingqiu calm just a little bit as Yue Qingyuan continued to check him over.
“He has a fever.” Yue Qingyuan gently informed, seeing how distraught Shen Qingqiu was. “Xi- Shen Shidi, be at ease. It’s a little common for babies to get colds.” Yue Qingyuan explained, rocking little Shen Yuan to comfort the baby.
“... Greedy little thing.” Shen Qingqiu sighed, clutching at Yue Qingyuan’s arm and sagging in relief as well. While his body was still tense, he was relieved to know this wasn’t something uncommon.
“If I may Shen-shixiong? I could take a look at him and prescribe you some medicine that will speed up the recovery?” came a voice, making Shen Qingqiu snap at the other person in the room.
Conveniently Mu Qingfang was also in the room. A look of surprise on his face that was soon turned into a look of worry towards the Shen Yuan as the baby still whimpered in Yue Qingyuan's arms.
“It would be good for Mu Shidi to take a look at your baby.” Yue Qingyuan reassured, getting Shen Qingqiu to slowly nod and agree.
Gently and very carefully over the watchful eyes of Shen Qingqiu. Shen Yuan was placed onto Yue Qingyuan’s desk after the man brushed off a few papers and placed a soft pillow onto the wood surface. Uncaring for the papers that scattered on the floor as Shen Yuan was the main focus for all the immortals in the room.
Mu QingFang was quick to look over Shen Yuan. Knowing and seeing how disturbed Shen Qingqiu was over his child's wellbeing. Yue Qingyuan stood close to Shen Qingqiu as the other man cautiously watched over Mu Qingfang’s actions as if he was scared the healer would harm Shen Yuan.
It was something both peak lords noticed.
And something that made both feel a horrible guilt inside them.
“As Yue Qingyuan said, it is common for babies to get colds. And with the cold season approaching this little one might get a few more. I have some medicine to help with his fever though. Just add it into his milk and with some rest he will be okay.” Mu Qingfang explained, smiling when little Shen Yuan let out a small smile to the healer as he looked around warily.
“I… yes.. I should… prepare for the cold… I should…” Shen Qingqiu whispered, his hands shaking as he reached out to bring Shen Yuan into his arms. Shen Qingqiu whole body gave out small tremors as he carefully pressed Shen Yuan closed to his chest. A feeling of his own guilt wash over and soon Shen Qingqiu started to wonder if it was his fault that his son got sick.
“... Shen Shidi, it is not your fault that your little one has a fever.” Yue Qingyuan reassured, placing a comforting hand on Shen Qingqiu’s shoulder as Mu Qingfang was also quick to agree. Both of them could see that the other was starting to blame himself for something that was out of his and Shen Yuan's control.
“Zhangmen-shixiong is right. Your son, besides the cold, is a very normal and healthy baby boy.” Mu QingFang added, getting Shen Qingqiu to finally… relent and let go of the festering guilt that was buidling up.
“I see… I… thank you Zhangmen-shixiong and Mu Shidi.” Shen Qingqiu whispered, not really looking at them as he stared down at Shen Yuan.
“I need to bring A-Yuan home.” Shen Qingqiu whispered, getting the two other men to nod their heads in understanding.
“Yes, I will come by with medicine and some things that might help keep Shen Yuan better protected for the cold season.” Mu Qingfang promised, rushing out of the room in order to get them to Shen Qingqiu as fast as he could.
The healer couldn’t help that his heart kept racing at the image of Shen Qingqiu looking vulnerable and then loving right before his eyes.
“Come, I’ll escort you both home.” Yue Qingyuan spoke, his voice gently as he guided Shen Qingqiu and Shen Yuan out the door. Yue Qingyuan couldn't help the overwhelming warmth that filled his chest when Shen Qingqiu accepted his escort and even... allowed him to gently place his hands on him.
While a million questions were racing in his mind Yue Qingyuan knew that now was not the time. He would protect Xiao Jiu and his son until they were safe and even then...
... he would always continue to do so.
Shen Qingqiu couldn’t help enjoy the comfort of Yue Qingyuan. Hating himself for enjoying the man’s company, his presence, and how safe he made him feel. A part of him still screamed that Yue Qingyuan had abandoned him.
That he would abandon him again.
That he would abandon him and Shen Yuan.
But… the way that Yue Qingyuan was quick to bring Shen Yuan into his arms. The way the other had carefully checked him over and then wiped off his desk without a care. So that Shen Yuan could be better examined and even made sure to put his son’s comfort first. How the stupid man comforted him and reassured him that he was not at fault for Shen Yuan's illness.
Shen Qingqiu hated how hope seemed to blossom in his cold heart.
‘Greedy boy.’ Shen Qingqiu fondly mused, watching Shen Yuan make a face as he drank his milk. Filled with medicine and a little bit of spiritual energy to help him get over his cold. The little one obviously not fond of the medicated drink and yet gladly consuming it for his greedy belly. It was funny for Shen Qingqiu to witness as he could already tell that his baby had a very refined taste like himself.
All the while the father and son watched the ‘show’ before them. Of two peak lords furiously writing down supplies they would need for little Shen Yuan.
It was honestly entertaining for Shen Qingqiu to see two powerful cultivators frantically trying to figure out baby care. It made him wonder if this is how he looked when he first came to his spies at the brothel.
“We’ll need to get a crib commissioned.”
“Please add more blankets. It snows much on our peaks during the winters.”
“Clothes, he’ll need winter clothes.”
“A good sling for Shen-shixiong. That way he can carry little A-Yuan around easier.”
Shen Qingqiu continued to listen as the list of supplies grew longer and longer. Qing Jing Peak Lord didn’t even wonder anymore at who would be buying all that. Yue Qingyuan and Mu Qingfang reassured him that he had nothing to worry about in this entire process.
It had been one day since Shen Qingqiu made a show of himself and Shen Yuan.
Thankfully, Yue Qingyuan was firm at giving Shen Qingqiu some privacy. Forbidding other peak lords besides Yue Qingyuan and Mu Qingfang to enter Qing Jing Peak. At least, until the father and son were rested after the stressful event.
Of course, once Shen Qingqiu calmed down he did explain Yue Qingyuan everything. He had no reason to hide anymore nor lie about Shen Yuan. Shen Qingqiu didn't realize how much Shen Yuan was giving him strength to work through the things that gave him the most anguish in life.
It didn’t take long for Yue Qingyuan to try and find answers. Zhangmen-shixiong quickly reassured it wasn’t that he didn’t believe him. But, he needed to gain evidence for the other peak lords for everything to be settled as smoothly as possible.
Shen Qingqiu understood.
Something that seemed to make both Yue Qingyuan and Mu Qingfang sad with a hint of anger. Shen Qingqiu couldn’t understand them so he shrugged it off. Only thankful that the beast peak did confirm there was a crane spirit that granted babies and one that matched Shen Qingqiu’s description.
After that it was just the waiting game for Shen Yuan to heal from his cold. Yue Qingyuan had held a meeting the night when Shen Yuan's prescence was known for the other peak lords to inform them of the situation. Knowing that without information the imbicles might break orders and come find answers for themselves.
Well mainly the buffoon on Bai Zhan Peak.
But, it would be good to prevent more incidents.
Mu Qingfang was sure to give Shen Qingqiu a tea that would help calm his mind. Something he greatly appreciated as it helped him sleep at night and keep his overflowing temper in check.
To say Shen Qingqiu was a little surprised that the two showed up at his house the moment he woke the next day was an understatement. But, they brought breakfast for both himself and Shen Yuan so he didn’t say much except for a grumbled thank you.
“We’ll need more padding for the crib.”
“Not too many blankets or pillows in the crib. I have heard incidents about that.”
Shen Qingqiu arched a brow at the two before him as they started to have a debate with one another on certain items. Shrugging it off once again as Shen Yuan seemed to be done with his food with a disgruntled look on his face. He gently burped his son before setting him down on his lap. Letting the baby slowly fall asleep as he was still getting over his cold.
“... How long are two going to be in my house?”
“Xi- Shen Shidi! We haven’t even gotten to the toys yet!”
“Yes, toys are a must in the growing development of a child.”
“....”
Shen Qingqiu just accepted his fate.
Being a parent was exhausting and Shen Qingqiu was learning to pick his battles.
Shen Qingqiu knew he couldn’t put it off.
His son’s fever had passed and once again his baby boy was bubbling with energy. Well, as much energy as babies can have considering the most Shen Yuan did was sleep, eat, poop, and maybe cry every so often.
With Shen Yuan’s passing fever he knew Yue Qingyuan couldn’t hold off the other peak lords for long. Even Mu Qingfang’s help didn’t seem to keep those nosey imbeciles content.
Shen Qingqiu also knew he needed to address his son to his peak.
Already he’s seen a few senior and younger disciples sneak close to his house. All of them wondering about the baby that made their peak lord rush out in a panic state.
Though, Shen Qingqiu couldn’t help feel a tiny sense of pride in his disciples. As soon as word got out about Shen Yuan and once they were in the safety of the bamboo house. Senior descriples upped their security and guarding.
Knowing that the other peak lords and disciples were forbidden to come to the peak for the time being. They ensured to prevent all entries into the peak except for Zhangmen-shixiong and Mu Qingfang.
Finally taking their jobs seriously as disciples of the peak.
Even the younger disciples supposedly snitched on all disciples they saw trying to sneak in. Going as far as to tell on a peak lord they saw trying to wiggle through the barrier.
But, now he was forced to present his son like he was some cattle or sacrifice.
It made Shen Qingqiu furious.
“We’ll show them A-Yuan.” Shen Qingqiu whispered, checking over Shen Yuan’s clothes. Shen Qingqiu ensured that Shen Yuan wore his best robes for the occasion. A set that looked oddly like his own and that seemed to appear yesterday when Yue Qingyuan visited.
Either way, it was very dignified and regal.
Something the gossiping hens inside the meeting room weren’t.
Yue Qingyuan sighed as they finally came to the doors of the meeting room. Already hearing the grumbling and talks of the occupants inside. Yue Qingyuan looked behind him a bit to Shen Qingqiu. The two eyes meeting and Yue Qingyuan couldn’t help reaching out to gently touch Shen Qingqiu’s hand. Again Shen Qingqiu was surprised when he found himself not slapping away and hissing at the touch from the other.
“... ready?”
“... Let’s get this over with. Shen Yuan has a strict schedule and I won’t let gossiping hens ruin that.” Shen Qingqiu whispered, never once slapping away the touch. Yue Qingyuan smiled just a little before turning around again.
Shen Qingqiu couldn’t help notice that Yue Qingyuan stepped a little more to cover both him and Shen Yuan.
Yue Qingyuan couldn’t help notice that Shen Qingqiu stepped a little closer to his back.
The two didn’t say anything about it as Yue Qingyuan opened the door.
The room was quiet as Yue Qingyuan and Shen Qingqiu stepped through the door. The two in sync with each other’s steps as they came to their seating.
Yue Qingyuan went as far as to help Shen Qingqiu into his seat. So that he wouldn’t have to struggle with Shen Yuan sleeping peacefully in his arms to get settled down. Mu Qingfang gave Shen Qingqiu a reassuring smile from where he sat beside him. All eyes were one Yue Qingyuan and Shen Qingqiu at the moment as they finally waited for Yue Qingyuan to sit down.
For a moment there was silence…
… then.
“HOW THE HELL DO YOU HAVE A BABY?!”
“WWWWWWWWWWWWWWAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!”