The love of a prince

by baby_jhi

Summary:

Xiao Se finally saw the man he fell in love with at first sight, he thought he would never see him again. But here he was in front of him, suspended on chains from the wall, seemingly unconscious. Everything inside him ached and screamed when he saw his favourite omega in such a state, he could also smell the smell of pain coming from him.

Walking over to him and pulling a jar of medicine out of his sleeve, he poured a pill into his palm and was about to give it to his beloved when a bell rang, and in the same instant the omega opened his eyes and attacked.

Chapter 1

Ming Hou had just thrown the golden coffin to the side to dodge Senior Apprentice Tang's attack. 

 

The lid of the golden coffin due to the collision with the ground flew aside opening the coffin. Everyone watched the coffin with bated breath. Suddenly, a human hand appeared from the coffin, causing Lei Wujie and Sikong Qianluo to be frightened, thinking that the corpse had come to life.   

 

But it wasn't really a corpse. A monk in white robes stood up from the golden coffin. And they all smelled the smell of ripe peach with a hint of jasmine, and they realised that the monk in front of them was an omega, the one standing on the side towards them, but they all appreciated that the monk was a handsome omega.

 

When he used something with his eyes on the black-clothed bandits and they fell down, they realised that he was not a simple monk.   

 

After killing the black-clad bandits, Wu Xin came out of the coffin and was confronted by Ming Hou, who asked him to give him back his memory, and he did so without objection. After Ming Hou and his companion Yue Ji left, leaving the monk with the others.   

 

And Wu Xin finally turned to the others.   

 

And everyone saw his beautiful face, he was such a cute omega that the alphas in the group looked at him intently.   

 

Xiao Se thought while looking at the monk:

 

"Cute."  

 

Wu Xin immediately recognised which one was the alpha and omega, there were no betas in their ranks.

 

Yi took a step towards them with a soft expression on his face.  

 

His eyes met Xiao Se's for a moment, and when he tried to use the 'drawing out the inner demon' technique, it didn't work, and he raised an eyebrow at that.   

 

Afterwards, he looked at the guy with white strands and started to use his technique on him when he caught his gaze.   

 

Tang Lian shook his head a couple of times without realising what was going on.   

 

Before Wu Xin could use his technique on him, a loud voice was heard, breaking his spell: 

 

— Don't look him in the eye! — it was Wu Chang, the other monk.

He quickly flew over to the monk in white and pressed the monk's eighteen acupuncture points in a second, and immediately the young man's eyes rolled back and his body swayed, but the other monk picked him up, keeping him on his feet.  

 

Xiao Se flinched for a moment, nearly pulling his hand towards the monk's omega, but quickly recovered so that the others didn't notice his movement.  

 

Tiannu Rui spoke up: 

 

— Lian, your contact has finally arrived.

 

Xiao Se, looking at the unconscious monk, asked:

 

— Who are you and this monk in white?  

 

Wu Chang looked at him and replied:

 

— I am Wu Chang. His name is Wu Xin, he is my younger brother.

 

Tiannu Rui interrupted him:

 

— Let's talk in a secluded place. There might be extra ears here.  

 

The others agreed, and after a while, they were already sitting in a carriage leaving Meizhen Manor and heading for the Nine Dragons Temple.

 

 

Chapter 2

Through their conversations, they learnt about the monk in white. Xiao Se and Tang Lian peeped at the sleeping monk while talking, he was indeed a cute omega and looked fragile when he slept, which made the alphas want to protect and guard him. 

In the end, they were attacked by the grey-haired Xian and almost took the monk with them until Tang Lian used the Tang Clan's «Thousand Flying Petals» technique with the white-clothed monk's strength and defeated the grey-haired Xian.

 

Finally rising to his feet, Wu Xin stood up, stretched and said:

 

— I saw the Tang Clan's technique, the «Thousand Flying Petals», and I didn't pretend to be asleep for nothing. 

 

— Younger Brother. — Wu Chang exclaimed, trying to get to his feet. 

 

— Hello again, big brother. — Wu Xin said hello to him, then looked at the guy in the fox coat and the guy in red lying at his feet.

 

With a smile on his lips, he walked over to them and suggested:

 

— I'd like to go out. But I'm not sure if the honourable alphas would want to accompany this omega.

 

Xiao Se took his gaze away from him and replied:

 

— We don't want to. 

 

Lei Wujie also rose to his feet and looked at his friend:

 

— Xiao Se, let's go with him. He's an omega and something bad might happen to him on the way. 

 

Wu Xin smiled even wider. 

 

Xiao Se looked at Lei Wujie with disbelief and said:

 

— This omega possesses the secret techniques of the Rakshas Hall, he won't be lost with them. I have no doubt that he is stronger than all of us put together. So don't talk rubbish, Lei Wujie. 

 

Wu Xin looked sad at his words and said:

 

— Ah, so these noble alphas want to leave a weak omega like me to fend for himself? This is sad. 

 

Xiao Se looked at him and became indignant:

 

— You...! — but his heart fluttered as he looked at the omega, and feeling his inner alpha demanding to protect the omega, he sighed sorrowfully.  

 

Lei Wujie nudged him:

 

— Come on, Xiao Se, we're not heartless after all. Let's just escort the omega to wherever he wants to go. And then we'll go our separate ways. 

 

Xiao Se looked at the very sad face of the omega who was undoubtedly pretending in front of them and sighed tiredly, growling:

 

— Okay.  

 

Wu Xin smiled radiantly at this and, grabbing them by the shoulders, said:

 

— Hold on tight. — the three of them took off with the help of the incredible Qinggong Monk, disappearing from the scene. 

Chapter 3

A few xiaoshi later, they were on the shore of the lake. Wu Xin was sitting waist-deep in water, tears streaming down his cheeks as he remembered his master Wanyu. 

 

Xiao Se and Lei Wujie were sitting on rocks far away from him at this time, but they immediately sensed the omega's grief and looked at him. 

 

Lei Wujie muttered:

 

— He seems to be very sad. 

 

Xiao Se rose to his feet and threw:

 

— I'll check on him. — he went to the lake and after a few feng sat on a stone on the lake shore a few steps away from the omega in the lake. And asked:

— You are crying. — he was asserting rather than asking. 

 

Wu Xin turned his head in his direction, tears appeared in his eyes. 

 

Xiao Se couldn't look at his tears, sighing, said:

 

— Sit down. — he patted the stone beside him. 

 

The one, after thinking a little, came out of the water, and a cloak was thrown over him with the words:

 

— Wear it. — Xiao Se said, turning away from him and not looking at his naked body. 

Wu Xin grinned, obediently put on his fox cloak and positioned himself next to the alpha. 

 

After a while, Xiao Se uttered:

 

— You miss Master Wanyu. 

 

Wu Xin looked at him and replied:

— Really. — after thinking for a while, he rested his head on the alpha's shoulder. 

 

Without noticing it himself, Xiao Se began to spread a soothing fragrance to make the omega beside him feel good. 

Breathing in and exhaling his scent, Wu Xin hugged the alpha at his side, nuzzling his nose into his neck, and whispered:

 

— Thank you. — tears ran down his cheeks. 

 

Xiao Se hesitantly squeezed his shoulder and replied:

 

— You're welcome. — he whispered. 

 

Lei Wujie looked at this picture in surprise and then smirked, realising what he could tease the older alpha with. 

 

A while later, Wu Xin finally pulled away from the alpha, got to his feet and walked over to his clothes, picked them up and stood up to his full height, dropping the fox coat on the stone where his belongings were lying. 

 

Xiao Se's eyes widened, he hurriedly turned away and whispered:

 

— How shameful of you. — his cheeks flushed red from what he saw. 

 

Wu Xin grinned at his words and put on a white robe. 

 

Lei Wujie, who was watching all of this, couldn't stand it and laughed loudly. 

Xiao Se fiercely looked at the guy in red who was now rolling on the stone with laughter. 

 

When Wu Xin finished dressing, he walked past the alpha and patted him on the shoulder with the words:

— Thank you, I needed that. 

Thoth nodded, looking at his departing white back. 

Exhaling, he followed, putting his fox coat back on. 

In the end, Wu Xin healed Lei Wujie's wounds with his technique. Thus began their journey to the Temple of Great Prayers, where the monk wanted to meet his uncle. 

Along the way, they also encountered the mounted brigands Changong Ju and Baigui Yixing. Where Lei Wujie was captured, Xiao Se and the monk shamelessly ran away instead of rescuing their comrade. 

 

But they ended up rescuing Lei Wujie and in addition, they blew the bandits' camp to hell. 

 

They wandered the roads for a few days, Lei Wujie was captured again and had to be rescued again, but before that, Wuxin and Xiao Se fought like children, beating each other up. But in the end, they rescued their friend and arrived in the city of Yuitian.

 

There they met the so-called uncle Wu Xin, a monk named Wang Zhenxun and a senior Zhanxian eunuch named Jing Xian. 

 

The three of them stood on the roof, surreptitiously observing the conversation between the eunuch and uncle Wu Xin. 

 

But then the eunuch heard something from the side of the roof and said loudly:

 

— If you have come at last, come out. 

 

Wu Xin, realising that there was no more point in hiding, revealed himself to the eunuch, while Xiao Se and Lei Wujie quietly lurked. 

 

— To see the esteemed and beautiful eunuch Shen Jingzhou here is a great honour for this humble monk. — Wu Xin muttered, looking at the eunuch with a smile. 

 

The man snorted and replied:

 

— You still haven't changed, still the same cocky omega I used to meet and drink wine with. Won't you come down to my place?

 

Wu Xin smiled a little wider, and Xiao Se only raised one eyebrow as he listened to this conversation. 

 

— Don't worry, honourable Jin Xian, I'll come down to you, of course. But I'm afraid I'm not going to surrender to you without a fight. 

 

— I can promise that no one will kill you if you come with me to the palace. — said the eunuch calmly. 

 

— I'm afraid I've been listening to such words all my journey, perhaps you need to think of something else to get my attention? — Wu Xin asked in a husky voice and then went downstairs, standing at a safe distance from the eunuch. 

 

The man grinned and replied:

 

— Do you fear me, monk? What about the time when we used to drink wine together and have a good time talking? I thought you liked me. — Shen Jingzhou replied a little flirtatiously. 

Wu Xin actually blushed a little at this and replied:

— Eunuch Jin Xian, you make me blush at your words. Of course, this humble omega wouldn't be able to attract the attention of Eunuch Shen Jingzhou. Besides, hearing your words, it makes me think that you want to take me as your consort. But I'm afraid my heart is already occupied by one very intelligent alpha who sometimes pisses me off. — Wu Xin spoke back with a flirtatious tone. 

Hearing his words, Lei Wujie opened his mouth, and Xiao Se felt his heart shudder at the monk's last words. 

 

Jin Xian laughed quietly at this and replied:

 

— This is unfortunate. But I'm afraid you'll have to come along with me. 

 

— I'm afraid I won't voluntarily follow you. — Wu Xin replied seriously, his flirtation waning. 

 

— Ah, I still thought I wouldn't have to fight you. But it seems it can't be avoided and rest assured, I will finish the job of those who failed to kill you. — replied the eunuch firmly and drew his sword.  

 

And a fight began between them. 

Chapter 4

Previously in Snow Moon City.   

The third master of Snow Moon City, the immortal master swordsman, Sikong Changfeng was arguing with his son alpha Sikong Lucheng about going in search of his daughter Qianluo and what's the sin the young alpha was curious about the story of the golden coffin and the, why the master of the Temple of the Nine Dragons, Master Dajue had instructed their city to bring the young future head of Tianwaitian to him at the Temple of the Nine Dragons, he wanted to look at this young monk. He had a hope that that monk was his long-time childhood friend and younger brother. But his omega father was arguing with him because of that at the moment.

Sikong Changfeng was afraid that once his son met the young head of the Tianwaitian Clan, his secret would be revealed and the grey-haired Xian would take away his firstborn alpha, his good Lucheng. After all, the latter was also the son of Ye Dingzhi and himself. A few years ago when all of them, Baili Dongjun, Ye Dingzhi and himself, were friends. One day, he and     Ye Dingzhi slept together, or rather, their cycles coincided at the same time. They couldn't resist their desires, and as a result, he got pregnant. Only they three friends knew about it, no one else. At that time, Ye Dingzhi had a sweetheart whom he loved with all his heart and he didn't abandon her because of Sikong Changfeng's pregnancy, but promised him to take care of their child. He only did it as an uncle so that no one else would find out about their shared son when times were already turbulent. Sikong Changfeng loved this alpha to the core and grieved greatly when he died.

At that time, their son was five years old, just like Ye Dingzhi and Yi Wenjun's son, Ye Anshi. Only his son was three months older from the son of the alpha and Yi Wenjun.

He didn't want anyone from the Tianwaitian clan to know about this, never in his life. But he realised that the truth would come out at some point.

Now he was trying to stop his son from getting into the thick of things, but this hothead, who had taken on the character of his alpha father, would not listen to him.

— I don't want you to get involved in this case, Lucheng! This has nothing to do with us. And you want to get into this and put yourself in danger? — he asked seriously.   

He answered with a sigh:

— Father, you know that I am an alpha and can defend myself. I'm stronger than Qianluo, and that's saying something. So you don't have to worry about me, I promise I'll be fine. Please, Dad, I'm very curious about all this and I don't want it to go to my little sister. Please. — he switched to a pleading tone, looking pitifully at his father.   

He looked at his son for a while, then sighed defeatedly and replied:

— Okay, heaven is with you. You still won't listen to me, just like your sister will run away in the end. But alright, you can go now. But be careful, son. I don't want to worry about you yet, too.

He smiled radiantly and hugged his father and said:

— I promise, everything will be all right, father. Don't worry about me. Then I'll go first and intercept them halfway. — after he pulled away from him and took a step back, he bowed to him and skipped out of his father's office.

The other could only sigh and look after him, realizing that it was time to give his son his freedom.   

Let's return to the battle between the imperial eunuch and the young head of the Tianwaitian clan.

Thanks to his spies, Sikong Lucheng was on the trail of the monk in white and his friends. Now he arrived at the Great Prayer Temple just in time. And had time to watch the duel between the young monk and the eunuch Shen Jingzhou. He raised an eyebrow when he saw the imperial eunuch wielding incense, and grinned, thinking that this monk was being hunted by more and more powerful sword masters. Taking a deep breath, he was surprised to find that this young monk was actually an omega. If eunuch Jin Xian was going to kill an omega, he had to intervene, after all, where had he seen a young omega being killed. He would never allow it, omegas were sacred beings to him, even if this monk was the young head of the Tianwaitian clan and a strong martial artist. To a eunuch with his skill level, he was still no opponent.

And when the eunuch was about to attack the monk, freezing his bell with the young omega inside. He decided it was time to intervene, and using Qigong, flew straight at the eunuch with his spear.   

The latter dodged at the last moment, noticing the enemy from the side, and aimed his attack at the assailant. But Sikong Lucheng dodged his attack in time and stopped at a safe distance, the eunuch stopped the battle to see who had interrupted him.   

Sikong Lucheng at this time melted the ice around the monk and caught him in mid-air by the waist and gently lowered him to the ground.   

Wu Xin looked surprised at the young alpha who had unexpectedly saved him from the attack of Jin Xian's eunuch.

Sikong Lucheng smiled softly at the surprised omega and taking his hand off his waist, stood opposite him covering and protecting him with his back from the eunuch and coldly addressed the imperial eunuch:

— Dear eunuch Shen Jingzhou, what a meeting. But to attack a young omega, it was dishonorable of you.

At this time, Lei Wujie asked Xiao Se:

— Who is it, Xiao Se, do you know? — he asked in a whisper.   

The one coming to his senses in surprise, spoke out:

— This is the son of the third master of Snow Moon City.   

Lei Wujie couldn't help but exclaim:

— What?!

Everyone below looked towards the roof and the eunuch said:

— I know someone else is here. Come down.   

Xiao Se closed his eyes with his palm and sighed and said to Lei Wujie:

— Let's go. — Xiao Se also gave him a slap on the back.   

Feng joined the others afterward.   

Jin Xian seeing the sixth prince Xiao Chuhe, Prince Yunan, after thinking for a moment, finally put his sword into the scabbard stopping the fight and spoke:

— Maybe another time. We're leaving. —and turned back, but stopped because of the words of the son of the third master.   

— There will be no other time, Shen Jingzhou. Touch this omega and I will be your opponent.

The one turned back to them and grinned as he replied:

— Snow Moon City wants to go against the emperor?   

Sikong Lucheng grinned:

— I am not afraid of you, eunuch Jin Xian. Besides, what good deed were you going to accomplish by killing the young omega? It's dishonorable for an honorable man like you. — he replied firmly   

— I'm not going to argue with the little alpha. — the man snorted and turned around and continued walking to his palanquin.   

Sikong Lucheng snorted at his words, rolling his eyes.

And a few feng after the imperial eunuch had left, he turned to the young omega and asked anxiously:

— Are you alright, little guy?   

Xiao Se and Lei Wujie were surprised by his tone.   

Wu Xin raised an eyebrow at the alpha and replied, ignoring the nickname:

— I'm fine. You managed to intervene in time. May I know the name of my savior?   

Xiao Se and Lei Wujie also walked over to them.   

Sikong Lucheng quickly turned to them while pointing his spear in their direction.

The two of them became wary and stopped.

Wu Xin intervened:

— It's alright, they are my friends.   

After his words, Sikong Lucheng stowed his spear behind his back, reattaching it, after folding his hands in front of him in greeting, he spoke:

— My name is Sikong Lucheng. Who are you?   

Wu Xin's eyes widened upon hearing this name and hurriedly asked:

— Did you say Lucheng?   

The man looked at him and asked:

— That's right. Do you know me?   

Wu Xin smiled and spoke in impatience:

— You don't remember me? It's me — Wu Xin, Ye Anshi is for you.   

Xiao Se looked at the two of them suspiciously. And Lei Wujie didn't understand what was going on at all.   

It was Sikong Lucheng's turn to open her eyes in astonishment:

— Ye Anshi! Is that you?! — he exclaimed in disbelief.   

He rushed to embrace him and hurriedly said:

— My friend! You are alive! I thought I'd never see you again! — Sikong Lucheng pressed him to his side.   

He smiled back and hugged his old friend, whom he had never seen again after his father died accompanying him to the east.

Sikong Lucheng lowered his eyes, studying his lost friend and brother, and spoke:

— Where have you been all these twelve years? Everyone is after you because you are the son of... — Wu Xin interrupted him.   

— Let's talk about this elsewhere. — the man said seriously.   

Looking at his friends, he clarified:

— He is my childhood friend. I'll explain the rest later.   

Those two had no choice but to agree.   

In the end, Wu Xin instructed Wang Zhenxun along with the monks of the Great Prayer Temple to perform a ritual for him and said that he would be waiting for him in three days at the old site of the same temple, after which he and his friends left.

 

Chapter 5

Evening.

 

Wu Xin made soup with Mushrooms and some more vegetables.

 

The others sat next to him forming a circle.

 

A while later, everyone tasted the food that Wu Xin had prepared for them and were surprised at the taste.

 

Sikong Lucheng decided to speak:

 

— So, all the Jianhu masters are after you. I heard that the young head of Tianwaitian possesses the secret techniques of the Rakshas Hall, is it true?

 

Lei Wujie was surprised:

 

— Demon Clan! Wu Xin, the head of the demon clan?! — the latter exclaimed.

 

And Xiao Se merely confirmed his speculation.

 

Sikong Lucheng raised an eyebrow at him and asked:

 

— Didn't you know who you were actually accompanying?

 

Lei Wujie shook his head.

 

— I guessed. — Xiao Se said, looking at the monk.

 

Wu Xin confirmed with a sigh:

 

— That's right. I am Ye Anshi, Ye Dingzhi's son. Also the de facto head of the Tianwaitian clan.

 

— After the Tianwaitian Clan was defeated in the east and the Suoshenghe Treaty was concluded with the Central Community, it was said that the most important Tianwaitian figure had to leave a hostage in Baili for twelve years. I guess that hostage was you. — Xiao Se looked at him.

 

— Yes, I was five at the time. I accompanied my father to the east, where he died. And Wanyu took me in. — Wu Xin replied.

 

— The monk of the Cold Water Temple who went crazy and died at the end? — Sikong Lucheng asked.

 

— That's right. — Wu Xin confirmed.

 

Sikong Lucheng clenched his fists and spoke coldly:

 

— That means you've been in the Cold Water Temple all this time. Father didn't tell me that. I thought you were missing or dead. I'm sorry about your father. He was really a good man. If I'd known you'd been in that temple all this time, I would've gotten my father to meet you. Damn it! — he hissed, slapping his hand on the stone where he sat.

 

The others looked at him in surprise.

 

Wu Xin merely smiled at him and muttered:

 

— Lucheng, your father's action is understandable. If you had contacted the hostage I was for the Central Plains at that time. It would not have ended well for Third Master and you. I don't blame him for being cautious.

 

Sikong Lucheng crossed his arms across his chest and looking at the pot spoke in a serious tone:

 

— I didn't know you were the monk everyone was after. Our fathers were Anshi's friends. My father should have helped your father, not stood by when everyone decided to get rid of your father. It's all Emperor Xiao Zhoujin's fault. If he had let your mother go, your father wouldn't have sacrificed Tianweitian for her. It's the Emperor's fault, and no one else's. He got rid of your father and your mother is still in the palace. Ha, if it weren't for that, you and I wouldn't be separated. And my father wouldn't be mourning your father's death. But it was his own fault! — he said angrily.

 

Xiao Se looked at the alpha carefully. He wouldn't allow anyone to insult his father emperor, but he remained silent here.

Because he didn't want to reveal the truth about himself to others.

 

Wu Xin placed his hand on his friend's crossed arms and said:

 

— This is already in the past, Lucheng. There's no need to be angry about it.

 

The latter looked at him and replied in a calm tone:

 

— I know, but it's so unfair. Aren't you hurt for your father?

 

Wu Xin turned away without answering anything.

 

And Sikong Lucheng decided to reveal the truth that he had only recently learned, or rather, heard from his father's conversation with Baili Dongjun. His father thinks he doesn't know the truth, but he knows it perfectly well, he just hasn't told anyone about it.

Realising why his father was hiding it from him, he exhaled deeply and spoke:

 

— Anshi?

 

The man looked at him and asked:

 

— What?

 

Sikong Lucheng inhaled and exhaled deeply, determination appeared in his eyes and he spoke:

 

— My father loved your father as his alpha. — he dumbfounded everyone.

 

Xiao Se was also surprised to hear this.

 

Wu Xin looked at his friend with disbelief:

 

— What? — he asked quietly.

 

Without taking his gaze off him, he continued:

 

— My father was in love with Ye Dingzhi. But he only loved your mother. They... one day, our fathers' cycles coincided and they ended up together. As a result, my father got pregnant, and nine months later, a boy was born. That boy was me. You and I met when we were both five years old. The man I called uncle as a child was actually my father, no, our father. I'm your brother, not your friend, Anshi. — he finished.

 

The others sat shocked at what they heard, the most shocked of course was Wu Xin. He asked in a whisper:

— What? A brother?

 

The young alpha confirmed:

 

— Yes, you and I are brothers, Anshi. Father didn't tell me about it, I only recently learned about it from his conversation with Baili Dongjun. He doesn't know that I know the truth. And he had a hard time letting me go to this meeting with you. Because he knew that you and I would meet sooner or later. And he's afraid that the Tianwaitian clan will take me away with you. But now that we have met, I will protect you with all my strength. — after saying that, there was silence.

 

Sikong Lucheng only looked at the younger man and waited to see what he would say now.

 

Wu Xin sat and digested what he had been told, then grinned unhappily and spoke:

 

— Protect me? Really? Why should I believe you? I already have one half-brother who can't stand me.

 

Sikong Lucheng looked at him seriously and replied:

 

— If you think that brat is your brother, you are mistaken, Anshi. Our fathers were friends, if we hadn't been separated we would have grown up as true brothers. I met Xiao Yu a few times, but I never liked him. He's grown up to be the arrogant egotist he's been since he was a kid. I can't stand that guy. Even if you have the same mother, it doesn't mean that bastard is your brother. He doesn't deserve that title. You and I share the same father and we're almost the same age, only I'm three months older than you. And you have to understand that I'm not going to abandon you or use you. If you want to become the head of the Tianwaitian clan, I won't stop you, I just ask that you let me be by your side. If you don't want the clan, then if my father lets me, I'll be the head instead of you. The decision is yours, Didi. — he spoke the last words softly.

 

Wu Xin looked at him and then lowered his head without saying anything.

 

Xiao Se reached out his hand to Wu Xin's hand as a form of support, but his hand was quickly grabbed by Sikong Lucheng with the words:

 

— Don't touch my brother. He's an omega and I won't allow a stranger like you to be around him.

 

The one looked at him coldly and replied:

 

— Wu Xin my friend. I don't ask your permission on what I should do.

 

Lei Wujie sensing that the atmosphere was getting heated, put his hand on his friend's shoulder and spoke:

— Xiao Se...

 

Sikong Lucheng raised an eyebrow at this and repeated:

 

— Xiao Se, then? You're not from the imperial family, are you? — he asked suspiciously.

 

But before the wary Xiao Se spoke, Lei Wujie answered for him with a snort:

 

— Who? Xiao Se? He's just an innkeeper and a man very fond of money. He is traveling with me to Snow Moon City for the sake of me paying him back my debt.

 

Xiao Se thanked this fool for saving him unknowingly this time.

 

Wu Xin spoke, removing his brother's hand from Xiao Se's wrist and speaking:

 

— It's alright, Lucheng. He's just like Lei Wujie is my friend. We've been through enough to become friends along the way. I trust them.

 

The man looked at the innkeeper doubtfully, but stopped questioning. He had already guessed who the man was and when it would be time to speak to him alone.

 

Wu Xin asked curiously:

— Say, wasn't the Snow Moon City's third master the Immortal Spearmaster's favorite wine maker? I heard that Baili Dongjun invented sweet wine for the Immortal Spearman out of love for him.

 

Sikong Lucheng grinned and replied:

 

— Probably, yes. But after I was born, my father married Feng Qiu Yu, and a year later, Qianluo was born to them. Baili Dongjun offered his heart to his father, but he did not accept it because he had always loved Ye Dingzhi, even if he would never reciprocate. It could be said that before this war, the three of them were best friends. Father didn't fall in love at first sight with our alpha father. He fell in love with him when he simultaneously started taking care of both your mother and my father when they were pregnant. Perhaps that's when my father liked his care and kindness. But father never admitted his feelings for Ye Dingzhi, then he started to have warm feelings for Qianluo’s mother, but that didn't last long either, Feng Qiu Yu died after giving birth to Qianluo. After Ye Dingzhi's death, Father was in a terrible state, he was suffering, and only Baili Dongjun and the existence of us kept him from finally breaking down. Father hid with all his might that I was also Ye Dingzhi's son. He didn't want me to suffer the same fate as you, a hostage. Since I was a child, I didn't know who my alpha father was. No matter how many times I asked my father and Baili Dongjun, neither of them told me the truth. But when I was sixteen I overheard them talking. They were arguing at the time and didn't notice my presence, and that's how I learned the truth. I wanted to demand answers from my father, but I knew he was hiding the truth for my own good. And as soon as I learned the truth, I began to look into Ye Dingzhi's death. And found out that the emperor and the head of the eunuchs, and the famous secret guard, Luo Qingyang, the lone swordsman, were involved. They killed our father because of Princess Consort Xuan, that is, for your mother's sake. The emperor and Luo Qingyan both loved your mother and were furious when they found out that she gave birth to you by the head of the Tianwaitian clan. The emperor doesn't know about the lone swordsman's feelings for your mother, otherwise they would fight each other to the death. I found out about all this and now my goal is to kill Luo Qingyan and the head of the eunuchs, I can't kill the emperor because he is already old. But I will avenge my father on those two. They will pay for everything they did to provoke the war, and they are also the ones who used everyone to push Wang Rensun to kill Ye Dingzhi. I will make those two pay for their sins. I will not just let it go. — with a cold tone, he finished speaking .

 

After he said that, there was silence for a moment as everyone pondered over what they had learned from Sikong Lucheng.

 

After thinking for a moment, Xiao Se asked:

 

— Sikong Changfeng doesn't know anything about your plans, right?

 

The man looked at him and confirmed:

 

— No. If my father knew about all of this, he would never let me go to you, my brother. It would be better for them if he and Qianluo didn't find out about it. I don't want to involve them in all this. I know the truth will soon come out. Then we'll see what the Tianwaitian clan will do.

 

— You're not afraid of a lone swordsman? He ruined the life of the Sixth Prince Xiao Chuhe. — Xiao Se spoke confidently.

 

Wu Xin and Sikong Lucheng looked at him, and the latter replied:

 

— I know that he destroyed Prince Yunan's martial art, leaving him crippled. The sixth prince managed to survive, but no one knows where he is now. I'm not going to stand alone against a lone swordsman, after all, I'm not a fool. I have allies. And I won't tell anyone about them, not even you. When the time comes, you will know.

 

That was the end of their conversations.

Chapter 6

After three days, the ritual in honor of Master Wanyu was over. When Wu Xin and the others went down to the old temple square, Master Dajue and the rest of the monks from the Nine Dragon Temple were already there.

 

The rest of the group with Tang Lian had also arrived.

 

Wu Xin broke the True Lahan Formation and approached Master Dajue at a reasonable distance. He was joined by Sikong Lucheng, who became closer to his brother.

 

Xiao Se and Lei Wujie stood near the grand staircase from which they had all descended earlier to the platform of the old Great Prayer Temple.

 

Senior Disciple Tang's group stood a little further away from them, watching carefully.

 

Wu Xin decided to speak up:

 

— Master Dajue and literally succeeded in enlightenment.

 

He was interrupted by one of the monks pointing at him:

 

— How dare you, demon!

 

Sikong Lucheng looked sharply and coldly at the monk who had spoken.

 

Wu Xin meanwhile spoke out:

 

— I am not a demon at all. It is you who have lost the Buddha in your hearts. It is said that when Buddha became Buddha, the demons were horrified and sent all possible women, very charming women. But the Buddha did not care about them, because women are just bodily beings, and he easily smashed them.

 

The same monk said:

 

— Your demon is so great that it has penetrated my pure heart. If you want me to surrender, then I have no choice.

 

Wu Xin hummed at this, as did Sikong Lucheng. The former continued:

 

— Your explanation is actually... shameless. — shaking his head in feigned disapproval.

 

Sikong Lucheng at this couldn't hold back the chuckle he burst out, as did Lei Wujie, who chuckled upon hearing Wu Xin's words. Xiao Se shook his head with gentle irritation.

 

— Daguai, come back. — called out to that Dajue, sitting still with his eyes still closed.

 

The one did so, as did the rest of the monks beside him.

 

— Master Dajue, are you still going to sit with your eyes closed? Won't you look me in the eyes? — Wu Xin asked calmly.

 

The man ignored his words and said:

 

— Wu Xin, do you still remember when you and I first met?

 

The monk in white confirmed:

 

— Of course I remember. Back then, I stayed at the Cold Water Temple for about four months. You eventually took Brother Wu Chang with you.

 

— You know, Wu Xin. When I saw you for the first time, what did my heart wished for? — Master Dajue asked calmly, disdain could be heard in his tone.

 

Sikong Lucheng tensed up at his words and clenched his fists, ready to point his spear at the other if Master Dajue were to attack his brother.

 

Wu Xin calmly looked at him and replied:

 

— There are five precepts in Buddhism. Thou shalt not kill, thou shalt not steal, thou shalt not commit adultery, thou shalt not lie, and thou shalt not drink alcohol. I guess Master Dajue wanted to break the first commandment when he met me. — he said with pressure.

 

— That's right, when I met you. I wanted to kill you. And today I'm finally going to do it. — the man said hatefully, finally opening his eyes and looking at the omega in white.

 

Sikong Lucheng pointed his spear at the elder monk at the same instant, standing in front of his younger brother, covering him with his back, and said in a hard and cold tone of contempt:

 

— Over my dead body only, Master Dajue.

 

The latter shifted his gaze to him and, frowning, asked:

 

— Who are you, and how dare you defend this demonic brat! — he roared.

 

Sikong Lucheng looked him straight in the eyes with a cold smile and muttered:

 

— Doesn't my face remind you of someone? My name is Sikong Lucheng, I am the son of Immortal master swordsman Sikong Changfeng and a person you know well, Ye Dingzhi.

 

Master Dajue and the rest of the monks of the Nine Dragon Temple exhaled shockedly upon hearing this.

 

Hearing this, Tang Liang's group widened their eyes in bewilderment. Qianluo was the most surprised.

 

— What?! This can't be true! That demon only had one child, and that was Wu Xin, Ye Anshi. Why are you lying!!! — master Dajue roared loudly.

 

Sikong Lucheng laughed coldly and replied:

 

— Nobody knew of my existence, Master Dajue. But here I am in front of you, next to my brother Wu Xin. Do you know why I decided to show myself to the world now? Because I found out who was involved in the war against the demon clan from the beginning and who was responsible for my father's death. And I've come to avenge my father. Including the fact that you wanted to kill my brother. I won't let you do that. Because of people like you, I had to lose my brother and our father. But the time of reckoning has finally come. You instructed Snow Moon City to deliver my brother's golden coffin to the Temple of the Nine Dragons.  But you didn't know that I would follow that coffin and finally meet my little brother. I am grateful for that, but I will not let you kill my brother. — with those words, he pointed his spear towards the other with fury in his eyes looking at Master Dajue.

 

— Well, then I will kill both sons of this cursed demon today! — master Dajue roared, rising to his feet.

 

— Let's see if you can handle both of us. I warn you in advance that Snow Moon City has nothing to do with my revenge. If you touch my father and the other residents of the city, I will not be merciful to my enemies. — Sikong Lucheng coldly said.

 

— I will ask Sikong Changfeng why he hid the existence of another son of that demon from all of us. — master Dajue growled.

 

— That's enough. Let's get started. — he nodded to Wu Xin, and both of them began to attack.

 

The battle ended with Master Dajue being defeated, and the Ye brothers were joined by the rest of Tang Lian's group. They won with difficulty, Master Dajue was a very strong martial artist. They were able to bring Master Dajue to his senses, and he eventually left, leaving them alone .

 

Not even a xiaoshi later, the disciples from Wushuang City arrived. A guy named Wushuang was very strong. But in the end, he was defeated by Wu Xin.

 

Then the third master of Snow Moon City himself arrived at the old temple square, he opened Wushuang's scabbard completely, and then, returning it to the master, said:

 

— The approach to wielding a sword and a spear is the same. I used my inner strength to wield the Wushuang scabbard. It is up to you to understand this truth.

 

— Thank you for your instruction. —  Wushuang and the rest of the brothers in arms bowed respectfully.

 

— Go and tell Wushuang's top leadership that capturing a child will not turn the world upside down. It's very hard to find an exceptional talent. Maybe we shouldn't take him along to kill people. Would you be kind enough to tell Song Yanhui that? — Sikong Changfeng said.

 

— I'll be sure to pass on your words. —  Wushuang agreed, and after bowing one last time, they finally left the place.

 

He looked around at his son standing next to the monk in white. The two of them looked alike and unlike at the same time. But the monk looked more like Ye Dingzhi and it made his heart ache.

 

He took a step towards them, but before he got to them, his daughter swooped in and hugged him, and he was relieved to hold her close to him, then pulled away and began to scold her in a mild manner, and Senior Apprentice Tang was also involved. The three of them argued for a while, but Sikong Changfeng remembered his son and stopped arguing and went towards his boy.

 

He took a step towards him and folded his hands in front of him to bow, but his father just pulled him into his arms and whispered to him:

 

— You're all right, my boy. — stroking his son's back.

 

After a few feng later pulled away and finally looked at the young omega and spoke without holding back:

 

— You look a lot like your father.

 

Wu Xin smiled at this and said:

 

— I've heard some people say that I look a lot more like my father than my mother.

 

Sikong Changfeng stood in front of him and looked at his face with a sad smile and spoke:

 

— So similar. — he whispered and took another step and embraced the young omega, pulling him close to him.

 

He froze in amazement, not knowing what to do now.

 

The others were also surprised by the actions of the third master of Snow Moon City.

 

Sikong Lucheng simply smiled seeing his brother's dumbfounded face.

 

Meanwhile, the immortal master swordsman squeezed the young omega in his arms and whispered so that only he could hear him:

 

— I'm sorry for Dingzhi, for everything.

 

Wu Xin hearing his words relaxed a little.

Chapter 7

After a few feng, the third master pulled away from the boy and spoke, discreetly wiping the tears from his cheeks:

— I met an old friend halfway through the journey.

 

After his words, a Baifa Xian descended from the sky.

 

The others tensed up, grabbing their weapons, but Sikong Changfeng calmed them down with his words:

— I said that I had met an old friend, and I was talking about the Baifa Xian. — and stepped aside so as not to disturb the old friend.

 

Baifa Xian approached his nephew and stopped at a respectful distance.

 

— Uncle Mo. — Wu Xin spoke out, looking at him with a slight smile.

 

— You escaped without saying anything and using your skill. And after that, you still call me uncle? — he asked sternly.

 

— Uncle, your skill is so great, how can I harm you? — Wu Xin said with a serene smile.

 

— I will take it with me. You won't regret it? — the Baifa Xian asked the immortal swordsman.

 

But before the third master could answer, Sikong Lucheng stepped forward, covering the monk with his back, and said:

— No, we'll talk first.

 

Mo Qixuan looked at the blue and white clothed boy and he seemed familiar, as if he had met him before but couldn't remember where, and raised an eyebrow, asking:

— Who are you? And why do I have to talk to someone I don't even know?

 

The young alpha looked at his father and said:

— Father, tell him the truth.

 

The man looked sharply and menacingly at his son and asked:

— What, what are you talking about, son?

 

Lucheng ooked fondly at his father and said:

— Father, I know the truth. I've known everything for a year now. There's no point in hiding it from others now.

 

Fear and horror appeared in the third master's eyes and he asked:

— How, how did you know? — worry could be heard in his voice.

 

The Baifa Xian frowned, not understanding what this was about, and asked:

— What is the truth? Why should it concern me? I have no patience, so tell me what the truth is and I will finally take the young clan head with me.

 

Sikong Changfeng looked at his son and seeing from his eyes that he was about to reveal his secret to a member of the Tianwaitian Clan, he quickly said:

— No! Son, please keep quiet.

 

The one still looked at him with a soft gaze and said:

— Father, you've been hiding it all your life. I found out when I was sixteen. You and the master winemaker were not so careful. Everyone here knows the truth because I told Anshi and the others. Only Baifa Xian doesn't know. If you don't want to do it, then I will. It's time for me to come out of your mighty back and face everyone, father. — he spoke firmly.

 

Sikong Changfeng realized that he was powerless to stop his son, and all he had to do was watch helplessly and defeatedly.

 

Sikong Lucheng looked directly at the gray-haired man and said:

— Baifa Xian, or should I say Uncle Mo, I am the son of my father and your head, Ye Dingzhi.

 

Mo Qixuan looked at the guy with dilated pupils and, unable to believe what he heard, he asked again:

— What did you say?

 

He continued:

— Anshi and I are the same age, only I'm three months older than him. My appearance came as a surprise to father and your head, but Ye Dingzhi didn't abandon us. He was by my father's side as long as he could. And I remember calling him uncle because he and my father decided to hide the existence of another son of the demon clan head from everyone. I found out the truth at the age of sixteen, I decided to dig into Ye Dingzhi's death and found out everything. After that, I started looking for Anshi and found him when I followed the trail of the golden coffin and Anshi's travels. And now here we all are. — he finished.

 

Mo Qixuan stood puzzled, pondering everything the guy had said, and then turned to the third master and asked:

— Why didn't you tell me about this? Why didn't you tell me about my clan leader's other son! — the one exploded.

 

— I would never let the Tianwaitian Clan take my son. I didn't want a fate like Ye Anshi's for him as a hostage. I couldn't let that happen. If I told about it, my son would be taken away from me and killed, after all, he was Ye Dingzhi's son. I couldn't risk my son's life. — he calmly said.

 

— Do you think that if you had told me, I would have let others cut his life short! I would have protected him because he is the firstborn of my clan leader! He was supposed to be under the care of the Tianwaitian clan! And you hid it from me! You dare call me your old friend?! If you thought I was your friend, you would have told me about my clan leader's son! How dare you hide his existence from me?! He is the future head of my clan! I will take him with me, just like Ye Anshi! — Mo Qixuan said fervently.

 

Sikong Changfeng pointed his spear at him and coldly said:

— You will not take my son away from me, Mo Qixuan. I won't let you. You can take Ye Anshi, but don't touch my son. Otherwise, you'll regret it.

 

Mo Qixuan looked at him with disdain, pulled his sword out of its sheath and said:

— Let's see who turns out to be the winner.

 

Before they rushed at each other, Wu Xin and Sikong Lucheng stood between them and spoke:

— Father, there is no need to quarrel. We can settle this matter without fighting like ordinary people. — Lucheng replied.

 

Wu Xin also said:

— Uncle Mo, calm down. There is no need for unnecessary violence. We can talk about everything calmly. Let's listen to each other.

 

Both of them pondered the boys' words, then the Baifa Xian put his sword into its scabbard, and the immortal spearman lowered his spear.

 

After that, everyone present sat not far from each other, with the monk in white and the Baifa Xian sitting in the center, and Sikong Changfeng and his son sitting opposite them.

 

Sikong Lucheng looked at his father and said:

— Father, I think I should go to the Tianwaitian Clan with my brother and Master Mo.

 

Sikong Changfeng didn't want to hear this:

— No, you will stay here by my side.

 

— But father, I have to protect my brother, especially Anshi is an omega, it will be difficult for him to rule the clan. I want to be by his side. — said the young alpha seriously.

 

— Who will protect you if you follow the Tianwaitian clan? Or do you consider yourself an adult because you are three months older than Ye Anshi? You're still a child, and this is a dangerous place, I can't let you go there. — Third Master disagreed.

 

— Father, you think I'm just a child. But Wu Xin is also a child, between you and me, I'm older and as the older brother I have to take care of the younger one. If I have to become the head of the clan to ensure Anshi's safety, I want to do it. Besides, I'm an alpha and I'm not helpless, father. — Lucheng said firmly.

 

Wu Xin watched him, saw his sincerity, and finally uttered:

— If Third Master is against it, we won't take Jinfei away by force.

 

To this, the Baifa Xian protested:

— But, young head, he is your brother and should be in the Tianwaitian Clan. If you don't want to become the head, then your brother should take the place of the clan head.

 

Wu Xin looked at his uncle fondly and replied:

— Who says I'm not going to take the place of the clan head? I will, Uncle Mo, don't worry.

 

Hearing his words, Xiao Se spoke up:

— What about your wish to stay at Cold Water Temple and live like an ordinary monk? Or to come with me and Lei Wujie to travel around Jianghu?

 

Wu Xin looked at him and smiled:

— I am no longer a child and have realized that no matter how much I want to stay in the Cold Water Temple, I have responsibilities to the clan. I wouldn't be able to abandon them even if I wanted to. As for traveling through Jianghu, I don't think we are parting for good. I believe that we will meet again, and then perhaps I will follow you, who knows. But for now, I cannot leave my clan and my uncle. This is my future road that I must walk and make a decision.

 

Xiao Se disagreed with this:

— But you have a brother, you can entrust your clan to him. After all, he's older than you, although he's only three months older than you. But he's an alpha and has seen enough of the world, unlike you. You've lived in a temple all your life and don't know how the world outside works. This could turn out badly for you.

 

The others didn't understand why he wouldn't let Ye Anshi leave.

Chapter 8

Wu Xin looked at his so-called brother and third master of Snow Moon City with a smile and replied, shifting his gaze to Xiao Se:

—I know that Lucheng, being an alpha and knowing the world well enough, will become a great clan head. But I can't separate him from his family. I don't have the right to do that. He has something he can't leave behind — his family. But I have no such attachment. Only Uncle Mo and the clan. Besides, the contract with Suoshenghe has come to an end, and as agreed, I must return to my clan, to my home. — he spoke calmly.

 

Sikong Lucheng protested:

 

— You are my family too, my brother. I will not leave you alone. I've already lost you once, but I don't want it to happen again. When I found out I had a brother. I made a sincere promise to myself and our late father that I would take care of you. I'm not going to give that up.

 

Sikong Changfeng frowned and muttered:

 

— So you want to leave me and your sister and go to the Tianwaitian Clan? Do you want to restrict your freedom by becoming the head of the clan? Didn't you aspire to conquer the Jianghu world? Is it really worth it? Or for that matter, do you think that your protection and care isn't needed by Qianluo, she's an omega as well, don't forget. — he said coldly.

 

The young alpha looked at his father and said:

 

— Father, you can't patronize me all the time. You have been hiding the truth from me all this time, and when I found out, I changed my goal. I decided to find Ye Anshi and be by his side. After all, he was the only person I had left from my father. I used to call this man uncle, now I'll never call him father. And I don't want to lose someone who reminds me that I had an alpha father. I love you and I love Qianluo. But it's time for me to choose my path. I'm no longer the boy who hid behind your back, father. Next to Qianluo, there is you and Brother Tang and the others, after all, there is Baili Dongjun, who is always by your side. But next to Anshi, there is no one but Uncle Mo and the big clan he has to manage. I want to be by his side so that he knows he has me, his brother, who is willing to watch his back against enemies like the seventh prince. I can't let him get hurt, especially by that bastard. — he concluded.

 

Sikong Changfeng sighed heavily:

 

— Lucheng...

 

Thoth spoke again, realizing that his father must know about his future plans:

 

— Father, you must know that after learning the truth, I have changed my goals and aspirations. You know, I dug into the case of Ye Dingzhi's death and found out everything.

 

The third master abruptly turned his head in his direction and said with concern in his voice:

 

— What have you done?

 

The one calmly replied:

 

— I found out who was involved in the war between Tianwaitian and the others from the beginning. Father, I have been gathering loyal and dedicated people around me all this time to avenge my father. — after saying that, the others were stunned.

 

Sikong Changfeng jumped to his feet:

 

— What?! What are you going to do! Are you crazy?!

 

The man calmly rose to his feet and replied:

 

— I'm not crazy, father. But I will not let those involved in my father's death get away so easily, I will kill them all. Because of them you are suffering, because of them Anshi had to live in the temple and be a hostage. I will take revenge on these people, I will make them suffer for daring to destroy my family. If it wasn't for them, I would have grown up with Anshi and our father. They separated me from my brother, and they will pay me dearly for it. I'll declare war on the world if I have to, but I'll get my revenge. You may not know the people who pulled the strings that led to Ye Dingzhi's death. But I do, Father, and they must die a slow and painful death. I won't let them live — everyone was shocked by his words, especially his father, who looked at his son as if he was seeing him for the first time.

 

— Who are you? Why did you become like this? Where's my good boy who would never kill in his life. What happened to you? — the third master of Snow Moon City asked in a broken tone, looking sadly at his son.

 

The latter softened and replied:

 

— Father, don't you know my character. I am still the same as you know me. But I have to be tough to protect those close to me. Father, I will follow my brother.

 

At these words, Wu Xin rose to his feet and walked over to him, standing opposite him and putting his hand on his shoulder said:

 

— Lucheng, I appreciate what you said. But you don't need to follow me. I can't separate you from your father. You don't have to go to extremes because of me. Your father will never forgive me if you die or get hurt because of your association with me. And you must give up revenge, you must let bygones be bygones. It won't change anything else if you take revenge. It won't bring my father back. — he said firmly.

 

The man frowned and spoke:

 

— You mean I should leave alone those involved in our father's death? I won't do that, Anshi. They will pay me for everything. Do they have to live when our father doesn't? No, they must also die. That's when I'll find peace. And I want to be by your side. Please let me be by your side.

 

Wu Xin smiled softly, but said firmly:

 

— No, your family needs you, your father. I don't want to separate you from them. Don't worry, I'll be fine. I'm not as naive as you think. And I'm not helpless, even though I'm an omega. So stay with your father.

 

He didn't agree:

 

— But Anshi...

 

The latter interrupted him and replied:

 

— No, Lucheng. I have Uncle Mo by my side, that's enough. I've already said everything. — after saying that, he returned to his seat and sat down.

 

— I will still follow you. — he stood his ground.

 

Wu Xin grinned and said:

 

— I'll put a barrier around the clan and you won't be able to get in. And you'll have no choice but to return home.

 

He crossed his arms over his chest and replied:

 

— I'll wait until you let me in.

 

The young omega raised an eyebrow and replied:

 

— Lucheng, you can visit me anytime you want. But you don't have to be around me all the time.

 

To which the man sighed and agreed:

 

— Okay. But this time I'll go with you for a few days.

 

Wu Xin had to agree.

 

After everyone rose to their feet, it was time to say goodbye.

 

After Lei Wujie tried to persuade Wu Xin to stay.

 

Xiao Se decided to give it a try as well:

 

— There's no need to leave, Wu Xin. The three of us can travel around Jianghu.

 

Wu Xin smiled and, placing his hand on the alpha's shoulder, said:

 

— It's my duty, Xiao Se. — he started to turn away from him.

 

But suddenly froze, and then turned around and said:

 

— Xiao Se...

 

The aforementioned raised an eyebrow while looking at him:

 

— What...? — but he was interrupted.

 

Because at that moment, the young omega grabbed the clothes on his chest, pulled the alpha to him, and sank a kiss on his lips.

 

The others froze in amazement at this sight.

 

Xiao Se froze for a moment, and sensing that he was about to pull away, he put one arm around the omega's waist, pulling him to him, while the other placed it on the back of his head and kissed him, but deeper this time.

 

From Xiao Se's actions, who had done nothing but torment the omega monk during their entire journey, Lei Wujie's jaw had dropped to the floor. Now, he was also shocked by Xiao Se and Wu Xin's actions.

 

The young Tianwaitian head was also surprised by Xiao Se's answer, and as they started to pull away from each other, a smirk appeared on his lips.

 

Xiao Se rolled his eyes after seeing the smirk on the omega's face and said:

 

— Even that won't stop you, right?

 

He smiled regretfully and replied:

 

— I'm afraid not. Take care of yourself, Xiao Se. — Wu Xin turned to Uncle Mo:

 

— Come on, Uncle Mo.

 

Everyone finally came to their senses, and Sikong Lucheng exclaimed:

 

— You! How dare you kiss my brother?! —he exploded.

 

But before the young alpha could run up to the insolent man, Wu Xin grabbed him by the shoulder and flew with him, using Qinggong.

 

Luchengs angry shout rang out:

 

— E ANSHI!!!

 

Xiao Se hummed at this, and then turned to the others and quickly put on an indifferent look when he saw the dumbfounded looks of those around him. He looked at Lei Wujie and said:

 

— Come on, Lei Wujie. We have things to do. — and started walking.

 

Lei Wujie came to his senses and ran up to his friend and asked:

 

— Did you kiss Wu Xin? Didn't he annoy you?

 

Xiao Se rolled his eyes and said:

 

— It's none of your business who I kiss. — and kept walking.

 

They walked away from the old temple, ignoring the others.

 

The others didn't linger here either, Sikong Changfeng and his daughter and senior disciple Tan went to the Snow Moon City, while Monk Wu Chang went to the Cold Water Temple.

 

Sikong Qianluo was upset because Xiao Se had kissed the monk.

Chapter 9

Evening

 

Sikong Changfeng stood in the gazebo in the mountains where he usually met Li Hanyi. He was looking at the full moon and thinking about his life.

 

Suddenly, a voice sounded:

 

— Are you still pining? — it was wine master Baili Dongjun.

 

The third master hurriedly wiped his crying face and continued to look at the moon:

 

— I don't understand what you're talking about. — he said.

 

Baili Dongjun stood beside the omega and muttered:

 

— I'm talking about Dingzhi.

 

Sikong Changfeng sighed:

 

— Dingzhi... — he whispered.

 

— I heard that Lucheng found out the truth and went to Tianwaitian with Ye Anshi. — the first master said.

 

— Yes, he has known the truth for a year now. Now he wants to avenge Dingzhi. I hope he won't be reckless like his alpha father. — Sikong Changfeng said.

 

Baili Dongjun turned to the other, taking his hand.

 

Sikong Changfeng looked at him and asked:

 

— What?

 

— How long will you mourn for him? — the wine master asked.

 

Sikong Changfeng shifted his gaze to the moon again and sadly said:

 

— That I don't know. I still regret letting him die. I should have been by his side no matter what. — he clenched his hands into fists.

 

Baili Dongjun holding Omega's hand leaned over and kissed the back of Omega's hand.

 

The man froze for a moment and uttered:

 

— Dongjun…

 

He straightened up, looked at him and said:

 

— You'll never give me a chance? I've been by your side for so long, seeing your pain and suffering. Seeing your pain, I was helpless and there was no way I could ease it. Sometimes I think it would have been better if I hadn't met Dingzhi again, and you and I would have traveled our path just the two of us. I'm tired of seeing your loneliness, I want to show you how much I've loved you all this time. Let me, Changfeng. I don't want our lives to end far apart like what happened to Xiao Ruofeng and his omega.

 

Hearing this, Sikong Changfeng took his hand away, turned away, and said:

 

— Don't compare them to us, Dongjun.   Gu Jianmen was killed on Xiao Ruojin's orders. The emperor even took Xiao Chuhe to him, knowing that he would grow up to be the strongest martial artist. He forbade Ruofeng to tell him the truth about who his real parents were, threatening both sons with death. Ruofeng tolerated because deep down, he still loved his brother. But Xiao Ruojin didn't realize this and eventually drove Xiao Ruofeng to his death. He died in vain without even telling Xiao Chuhe the truth. And this boy kneeled for three days and three nights, begging his so-called emperor father to revoke Xiao Ruofeng's death decree. And in the end, he paid the price. You and I know who sent Luo Qingyang to deprive the Sixth Prince of his martial prowess. But this fellow survived even after losing all his strength. — he said.

 

Baili Dongjun was surprised by this and asked:

 

— Did you finally find him? Where is he? — he became agitated, leaving the topic he wanted to talk to his friend about earlier.

 

The third master looked back at him and replied:

 

— Yes, I met him when I went to the old temple of the Great Prayers. He was among the young men who were on the case of the golden coffin.

 

— The golden coffin? Does that mean he knows Ye Dingzhi and Yi Wenjun's son? - Master Winemaker asked impatiently.

 

The latter confirmed:

 

— Truly, I learned the details from Qianluo. During the last meeting with the gray-haired Xian, this Ye Anshi kidnapped him and a guy from the Lei clan. By the way, the sixth prince is now called Xiao Se.

 

— Isn't that guy from the Lei Clan the son of Lei Mengsha and Li Xinyue? — he asked.

 

— That's right, Lei Wujie, you can tell from his face that he is Lei Mengsha's son, he looks just like his father. And I think our sixth prince and Ye Anshi have a complicated relationship . — the Third Master of Snow Moon City said thoughtfully.

 

— What does this mean, Changfeng? — Baili Dongjun asked incredulously.

 

— This young monk Ye Anshi kissed our sixth prince before leaving. And what surprised me was that Xiao Chuhe didn't object in the slightest. I didn't like the conclusion I drew from that. — Sikong Changfeng replied, wrinkling his nose.

 

— And what did you decide, my friend? — Baili Dongjun asked with interest.

 

— That our sixth prince has feelings for this omega Ye Anshi. This could end badly for him. Because Tianwaitian is still Emperor Xiao Ruojin's target, he will not rest without destroying this clan, which now has a new head and my son, who is similar to Ye Dingzhi in character. It's going to thunder again, which will shake the whole world. And the sixth prince will of course protect Ye Anshi because that omega was the first to touch the prince's heart. And you know how Xiao Ruofeng was in his younger years, I have no doubt that his son also took his fair nature and his loyalty to his couple. Even if he is helpless without his powers now, I have no doubt that he will come up with something to make the others not cross him. I just hope he stays alive and his life doesn't end like his father's. When he sets foot in Snow Moon City, I will take him under my wing. After all, we made a promise to Ruofeng that we would take care of him. And I'm not going to break my promise even if the emperor himself threatens me. I failed to protect either Xiao Ruofeng or Ye Dingzhi, both of whom were ruined by the emperor. And I will not let him ruin my friend's sons and my own son now. I will not hand them over to that man. — he growled at the end.

 

Baili Dongjun soothingly placed his hand on the omega's shoulder also spreading his scent to reassure the other and spoke out:

 

— I will be by your side all this way. Even if our friends are no longer in this world, I'm still here and I'll take care of their children with you, Changfeng. Besides, your children have long since become my own, and this son of yours deserves a good life without loss.

 

Sikong Changfeng smiled at him and replied:

 

— Thank you, Dongjun. That you are always by my side, I will think about what you said earlier about us. All right? — the one asked a little uncertainly.

 

The one smiled at that and spoke out:

 

— Of course, Changfeng. I will always wait for you. Whenever you want, I'll be there for you.

 

He smiled back. And they stood in silence for a while, until the immortal master of winemaking decided to interrupt him, asking:

 

— Will we tell the truth to Xiao Chuhe?

 

Omega looked at him and with a sigh replied:

 

— I don't know, but he should eventually find out the truth. I have no idea how to tell him without provoking his anger. Then he will surely go to the Emperor to demand answers. But if he does, I'm afraid he won't come out of Tianqi alive again.

 

Baili Dongjun put his hand on his friend's shoulder, half hugging him, and said:

 

— Don't worry, we won't let him commit this reckless offense. We will stop him and explain everything to him in order. He must know who his real parents are. The Sixth Prince has always loved the Emperor as a father. We must open his eyes, show him the Emperor's true colors. I hope no one finds out about him before the emperor does. He can't stand up to anyone without his power. We must protect him, fulfill the promise we made to Xiao Ruofeng. Don't worry, everything will be fine. — he spoke soothingly.

 

Sikong Changfeng silently agreed with his words. Realising that they would have to stand up for the sixth prince, who was more worthy of the throne than any other prince, and prevent Xiao Chuhe's detractors from killing him. If even the prince himself didn't know about the protection from their side. They would protect him, and his death would never come as long as he himself and Baili Dongjun were alive.

Chapter 10

Three months later.

Xiao Se along with Lei Wujie finally found their way to Snow Moon City and entered it. He himself went to drink tea at the tea shop, waiting for Lei Wujie to conquer the Temple of Ascension. While waiting for his friend, he reflected on the one omega that had touched his icy heart, if he admitted to himself, he missed him. Wanted to see him again. But he also had business in Snow Moon City, he was gathering information about his late Uncle Langyia's case and decided it was best to start with Snow Moon City. It was unlikely that he would be able to find out anything concrete in his current situation. But he would try to do so, talk to the third master of the city, who after all was also one of his uncle's friends, as well as the Immortal Wine Master. He knew that Langyia's uncle had been falsely accused and sentenced to death, and he would definitely find out what really happened. Why his father was involved in the death of his favorite uncle, he must clear his uncle's name. And punish those responsible.

 

Through the window of the tea shop, he saw Sikong Qianluo on horseback heading towards the Ascension Temple, where Lei Wujie was trying to subdue him. He jumped out of the window to stop the girl.

 

Xiao Se ended up stopping the girl and holding her back so that Lei Wujie could climb up to the fourteenth floor. In the end, his idiot friend challenged Immortal Swordsman Li Hanyi to a duel. At this moment, the third master of the city appeared at the noise, and standing at the foot of the Ascension Temple, he shouted at Li Hanyi for destroying his temple. Xiao Se hummed and returned to the tea shop to continue drinking tea, ignoring the noise.

 

After a few minutes, the same third master city who had noticed him earlier came over and sat down across from him.

 

Xiao Se nodded his head and spoke:

 

— The third master wanted to speak to me?

 

The one scrutinized the prince carefully and replied:

 

— I have come to offer you to be my apprentice.

 

Xiao Se raised an eyebrow at this and simply said:

 

— No.

 

To which the third master complained:

 

— You haven't even considered the possibility of becoming my disciple, think again.

 

Xiao Se calmly replied to this while twirling the cup in his hand:

 

— Why would I do that? After all, I am not proficient in martial arts. What will I learn from you besides martial arts? I have no desire for it.

 

— Make yourself my apprentice and I'll give you anything you want. If you don't want to do martial arts, you can be my accountant, looking after the coffers of Snow Moon City. How about it? — master asked with a soft smile.

 

To which the man looked at him and replied:

 

— I came to this city to get my money back that Lei Wujie owed me and that was eight hundred liang. I am not interested in anything else.

 

Sikong Changfeng readily said:

 

— I will pay you your debt and you will become my disciple.

 

Xiao Se hesitated for a moment and then spoke:

 

— No, not eight hundred, but eight million taels for each month as my salary as your accountant. If you agree to this demand of mine, then I don't mind being your disciple.

 

At this, Sikong Changfeng couldn't help but stare at him and crushingly muttered:

 

— You're really... all right, all right. As you wish, I will pay you this much every month and you will become my disciple.

 

Xiao Se smiled politely at him with a nod of his head:

 

— It's a pleasure doing business with you, Third Master.

 

Sikong Changfeng hummed at this and then spoke seriously:

 

— I also need to talk to you about a very important matter.

 

Xiao Se looked at him carefully at these words and replied:

 

— You actually know who I am, don't you?

 

The man nodded:

 

— That's right. Our conversation shouldn't be put aside. When Baili Dongjun shows up, he and I want to talk to you. It's very important. — he firmly spoke out.

 

Xiao Se agreed to this:

 

— Okay, as you wish. But still, if you only needed to talk to me, why take me as a disciple? — he asked.

 

— I will answer that question when we speak again. For now, as my apprentice, you must follow me to the manor. Take your friend with you too, I think he will also become a disciple of one of the masters here. — Sikong Changfeng answered him, then stood on his feet like Xiao Se and the two of them went to the third master's manor.

 

A week later.

 

It had been a week since Xiao Se became the disciple of an immortal swordsman. And Lei Wujie had become the disciple of Immortal Swordsman Li Hanyi.

 

Xiao Se did his teacher's errands, and on the second day of his stay in Snow Moon City, he also met his childhood friend Ye Ruoyi in the third master's manor. She was here because of her heart condition. The two of them slowly began to work on their friendship. He had also noticed Lei Wujie's interest in Ye Ruoyi .

 

Right now, he was in the gazebo drinking tea with his longtime friend.

 

Suddenly, Ye Ruoyi spoke up:

 

— I've noticed that Qianluo likes you. She's actually a good girl, you should take a closer look at her.

 

Xiao Se inwardly sighed at this and then replied:

 

— I don't know what you're talking about.

 

— You never change, my childhood friend. — Ye Ruoyi spoke with a soft reproach.

 

Xiao Se was about to reply with a barb about her and Lei Wujie, but they were interrupted.

 

— Master Xiao, the third and first masters called you. They told you to come no matter what. — said one of the disciples.

 

He got to his feet and replied:

 

— All right, lead the way. — with a nod of his head he said goodbye to his friend and followed the apprentice.

 

After a while, Xiao Se finally reached the gazebo located on the mountain.

 

Sikong Changfeng and Baili Dongjun were sitting in the gazebo waiting for the sixth prince. The former was a bit anxious about the upcoming conversation. They had chosen this place as they knew that no one would interrupt or overhear them, as the gazebo was protected by a spell, so no one would hear their conversation.

 

Noticing the sixth prince approaching, they waited until the other apprentice left them alone.

 

A while later, the two masters came out of the gazebo and, folding their hands in front of them, dropped to one knee and said:

 

— Welcome, Prince Yunan.

 

Xiao Se stopped before reaching them and said:

 

— Does this mean that we will speak in this manner? You don't need to kneel before me, I haven't been Prince Yunan for a long time, or don't you know that the emperor banished the sixth prince, demoting him to a commoner?

 

Baili Dongjun replied:

 

— It doesn't matter to us.

 

Xiao Se hummed and said:

 

— Then stand up, we are not going to continue the conversation like this.

 

Both of them nodded and rose to their feet.

 

And the third master said:

 

— Let's go to the gazebo, sixth prince. — he made an inviting gesture.

 

Xiao Se sighed and replied:

 

— I prefer the way you treated me as a disciple, Third Master. You don't need all these bows and formalities. It's uncomfortable. — he walked first to the gazebo and sat down, pointing to the two masters in front of him.

 

Those, too, sat across the fen from him.

 

Baili Dongjun poured wine for the other.

 

Xiao Se took the goblet, sniffed it, and said:

 

— Our conversation won't be easy, will it? Since you brought your wine, first master.

 

The one confirmed:

 

— That's right. Our conversation will be about Xiao Ruofeng.

 

At these words, Xiao Se looked at him sharply and asked firmly:

 

— What did you want to talk to me about regarding my uncle?

 

This time, Sikong Changfeng took the floor:

 

— We want to tell you about him. You will understand more if you listen to us.

 

— All right, I'll listen to you. — Xiao Se agreed.

 

And Baili Dongjun began his story:

 

— When the list about the eight lords of Baili was founded. Among them was the ninth prince Xiao Ruofeng, master Fenghua. He came to my grandfather Marquis Zhenxi when he found out that I had used the long-lost technique «Western Chu Sword Song» and suggested to him, to let me go to Jixia Academy for training. In the end, I became a junior student of the academy. After some time later, I heard about his connection with the head of the Gu family, Gu Jianmen. He was the omega of Xiao Ruofeng. When I traveled the world, Ruofeng married his omega with the permission of his emperor father. Two sons were born to them over time. — Xiao Chuhe interrupted him at this point.

 

— Wait, did you say two? Didn't uncle only have one son, Xiao Lingchen? How come I never knew about this? — Xiao Se asked with a frown.

 

At this, Baili Dongjun exchanged a glance with his friend and then looked at the prince and replied:

 

— Because their first son was taken away by Emperor Xiao Ruojin. He found out about the incredible power of the firstborn son of Ruofeng and Jianmen, so he threatened to take this boy to himself and made him his son. He forbade those two to reveal the truth to the child. If they did, he would kill Xiao Lingchen as well. Those two had put up with it, after all, they were being held in the palace. And they couldn't take any chances with the children's lives. But five years later, our friend's omega was killed on the emperor's orders.

 

Xiao Se couldn't believe his father's cruelty and muttered:

 

— It can't be Father Emperor. Perhaps you are mistaken, master winemaker. My father could not have been so cruel. He would not have killed Uncle Langyia's husband. He could not.

 

Sikong Changfeng coldly replied:

 

— Emperor Mingde did just that. Xiao Ruofeng found out long ago, a year after Gu Jianmen's death. But he didn't do anything about it because Xiao Ruojin threatened death to you, sixth Prince.

 

These words shocked Xiao Se, and he asked incredulously:

 

— What, did Father Emperor threaten me? Why? What does that have to do with me?

 

Baili Dongjun replied:

 

— Because you are the one the emperor took to him. You are the firstborn of Xiao Ruofeng and Gu Jianmen, the sixth prince.

 

At these words, the goblet on the sixth prince's hand shattered, he looked at the master winemaker in shock and asked:

 

— It's impossible, you're lying. It's not true! — he roared at both of them.

 

— Xiao Ruojin tested you when you were born and found that you had great strength even as an infant. He took you away from your parents and threatened them that he would kill both you and your unborn brother if they didn't give you to him, and silenced them. The emperor was jealous of Xiao Ruofeng's happiness. He wanted him to suffer, but he relented and allowed you to visit him. You grew up to call him uncle, Ruofeng loved you very much, as did Jianmen while he was alive. Ruofeng protected you and Xiao Lingchen until the end of his days. He was wrongfully accused and sentenced to death. You know, you were injured because you sided with Ruofeng, asking the emperor to overturn Prince Langyia's death decree. Luo Qingyang stripped you of your martial arts on the orders of the emperor himself, and the emperor actually sentenced you to death by sending a lone swordsman after you.

 

These words sounded like thunder to the sixth prince.

 

A single tear ran down Xiao Se's cheek and he whispered in a broken voice:

 

— My father-emperor offered his hand to my fortune that I've been living with for four years now? The man I thought was my father actually killed my real parents...? How did he... How dare he kill them? I will ask him his reasons...! — and abruptly got up from his seat.

 

But he was sat back down by the two masters, not letting him get up from his seat and he growled:

 

— Let me go!

 

— No. You have to calm down. If you go to him now, you'll only die. Listen to us, you can't go back to Tianqi now. If you go to him, you'll never see your omega again. — Sikong Changfeng told him.

 

Xiao Se was dumbfounded by the third master's words that he stopped resisting and asked:

 

— My omega?

 

— You think I didn't notice your feelings for the young head of the Tianwaitian clan?

 

— Naturally you feel something for this omega. If you go to the emperor, you won't be able to save your couple. — the Immortal Spearman spoke out, settling back into his seat with Baili Dongjun when he realized that the sixth prince was no longer going to escape.

 

Xiao Se frowned at this and asked menacingly:

 

— What does Wu Xin have to do with all this?

 

Baili Dongjun snorted and replied:

 

— It was precisely because the emperor had always wished to destroy the Tianwaitian Clan, because his favorite woman chose Ye Dingzhi over him. She gave birth to a boy named Ye Anshi. Because of this, your omega is in danger. Lucheng realized this and went with him to the Tianwaitian clan. The emperor wasn't the only one who harbored a grudge against the Tianwaitian Clan. Seventh Prince Xiao Yu also despises them. And he will want to use your Wu Xin to get to the throne. Having Changfeng's son by his side will thwart his plans for a while, no matter what he comes up with. — he said.

 

— So everything Lucheng said is true? The emperor is to blame for all the misfortunes? And this is the man I used to call father. —Xiao Se sorrowfully said, resting his face in his palms.

 

— You know the truth. What will you do now? — Sikong Changfeng asked.

 

Xiao Se grinned and mumbled hopelessly:

 

— What can I do in my case? I don't possess martial arts anymore. I'm a useless alpha who can't even protect his omega. There's nothing I can do. If something happens to Wu Xin, I'll kill everyone involved no matter what. — clenching his fists, he said.

 

At this the two masters looked at each other, and the third master said:

 

— Your friends are with you. They can protect you if you tell them who you really are. Tang Lian, Lei Wujie and my daughter will be your guards. Just like we once were to Xiao Ruofeng. Furthermore, I have no doubt that your other teacher will not be left out if you are in danger.

 

Xiao Se looked at both of them and asked:

 

— Third master, tell me, why did you take me as your disciple in particular?

 

— We once promised Ruofeng that we would ensure your safety if you wanted to take the throne. We won't let you die, and Xiao Lingchen is far away from the capital now, he's not in as much danger as you are. — Sikong Changfeng explained.

 

— To become the next emperor? I don't need this damned throne. — Xiao Se growled.

 

— But you are most suited to rule just like Ruofeng did in the past. — the wine master disagreed.

 

Xiao Se looked at him with fury and growled:

 

— And what did it get him? Only death. He died in vain. I'm not going to repeat his fate. I won't let anyone take away my freedom. That will never happen. If only the emperor dares to harm Wu Xin, I will destroy Tianqi City, kill all the remaining princes except for Lingchen. I will do everything in my power, even if I am no longer proficient in martial arts. I won't let the emperor or the other princes take what is mine. I am not like my father, I will not be soft. They will pay me for the death of my parents, I will avenge them, myself, you have my word! — he growled.

 

— Do you also want to kill Prince Bai? — Sikong Changfeng asked.

 

Xiao Se looked at him and finally calmly replied:

 

— No, Xiao Chong has nothing to do with this. I'm overreacting, if I want to kill, I will only kill the seventh prince if he harms Wu Xin. I also need to find out who were the ones who muddied the waters in Tianqi, pushing the emperor into all this. I suspect the chief eunuch Jin Xuan of all this. But I don't have any proof.

 

Sikong Changfeng and Baili Dongjun looked at each other after hearing his words, and the former of them uttered:

 

— Maybe we will find something. If we look carefully.

 

Afterward, Xiao Se stood up from his seat and spoke:

 

— If that's all, I'll leave you. — and was about to turn away from them.

 

— Xiao Se, are you all right? — the third master asked cautiously.

 

— Yes, I was grieving earlier with Uncle Langyia's death, it doesn't change what happened, even if I found out the truth. I let go of his death a long time ago, but I won't rest until I live up to his name. — with those words, he turned and walked away.

 

The two men had no choice but to stare at him anxiously.

Chapter 11

After a while, Xiao Se calmly returned to his room and as soon as he closed the door, he collapsed to his knees, tears streaming down his cheeks, which he held back in front of the two masters.

He put his hand on his breast and whispered painfully:

 

— Father... I swear I will avenge your wrongdoers. — he finally understood    Sikong Lucheng, for he too felt the desire for revenge.

 

He stood up, walked over to the bed and collapsed on it like a puppet that had its strings cut. He was still thinking about everything he had learned. All through his childhood he had called this man his favorite uncle, when in fact the man was his loving father who did everything he asked, loved him until his death, and had even instructed his other friends to take care of him and Lingchen. He was deeply hurt by the betrayal of the man he called father. This man had ordered the palace's secret guard to kill him himself for going against his decree. He was stripped of his skill, almost killed. It was his duty to live up to his father's name, to find the culprits and punish them. With these thoughts he did not sleep a wink all night.

 

A month later, a banquet was held for the Lei Clan. Xiao Se and his friends discovered that the Tang clan was planning to attack the Lei clan. At the end, Elder Tang killed the head of the Lei family. And Xiao Se and his friends decided to confront towards the Tang clan elder, but their strength was not enough to cause any pain to the old master. Now Xiao Se saw how his friends were injured in Lei Fortress. And he had no choice but to sacrifice himself to save them. Ever since he started his journey, it was always the same. His friends fell one by one while he just watched, frustrated and unable to do anything more than dodge attacks or watch their many fights. But now he must save their lives, if he was to even die himself in the process. The Art of Conversion had given him back his best strength for a short period of time, so to keep his own safe, Xiao Se gave Old Master Tan a strong fight that he couldn't handle alone. Thus, the Dark River Leader appeared to help the old man in his fight, however, due to a surprise move by the Dark River Master, Old Master Tang was killed by an explosion, causing Xiao Se to be seriously injured and could no longer resist.

It was then that Xiao Se realized that he was going to die because even though Old Master Tang was dead, there was still a Dark River Master ready to join the fight.

 

The others shouted his name as the man threw himself into a deadly attack he couldn't avoid, and in that split second when he was on the verge of death, something completely unexpected appeared in his mind. Wu Xin. He had missed him so much, that sweet, cunning omega had won his heart conclusively during their journey together. So eager to see him again, to kiss him, to tell him he loved him. Never had he thought he could love anyone, let anyone into his cold frozen heart and soul. He regretted letting Wu Xin go, he should have been more persistent and then maybe this omega would have stayed by his side. But what to think now that he was awaiting his imminent doom. He wished he could see him one last time.

 

— I'm sorry... Wu Xin. — Xiao Se whispered as he saw the Dark River Master approaching him with a deadly attack and prepared to strike. However, just as Su Changhe was about to strike him with his inner strength, a golden bell enveloped Xiao Se and Wu Xin descended in front of him, sending another set of bells at the Dark River Clan Master.

 

The one who couldn't withstand such a powerful attack flew back to the stairs and spat out a mouthful of blood as he fell. He then looked at the monk and asked:

 

— Who are you?

 

Wu Xin looked at the alpha beside him and gently put his arm around the alpha's waist, leaning him against him, and said:

 

— You were on the verge of death, Xiao Se.

 

The one looked at the omega and whispered:

 

— You're here. — he smiled with the corners of his lips.

 

The omega gently looked at him and replied:

 

— I'm here, Xiao Se.

 

— I'm glad I was able to see you again. I... I've missed you. — The alpha quietly said without taking his gaze off the beautiful eyes opposite.

 

— I have, too. — Wu Xin whispered back to him.

 

Xiao Se smiled at him one last time, and in the next instant, his eyes closed and he fell into the arms of his lover.

 

— Xiao Se!!! — Wu Xin's scream was the last thing he heard before he lost consciousness.

 

In the end, they managed to save Xiao Se's life at the last moment, a Divine Healer arrived, and with her help, Wu Xin and         Se Xuan, the Sword God Scholar, managed to improve the alpha's condition, and now he was fine and wasn't going to die.

 

Wu Xin heaved a sigh of relief, as long as Xiao Se was fine, he could handle any problem, so he left the room, leaving his lover in the hands of the Divine Healer, and joined the line of defense that Lei Wujie had started to prevent Xiao Se from being kidnapped.

 

When he joined his friends, Lei Wujie quickly outlined the situation:

 

— Wu Xin, they say that Xiao Se is Lord Yunan, the sixth prince of Xiao Chuhe, and they want to take him away with them.

 

But Wu Xin had long guessed this and was not surprised by his words:

 

— No one will take Xiao Se away when he is just starting to recover from his death. It's unreasonable to force him to go play Game of Thrones, which he probably doesn't want to do. Especially in his current state. — Wu Xin said to the lords.

 

— And who are you? The last of the guardians? — Marquis Lanyue asked, studying him.

 

— I'm just a little monk with no titles, but if you really need a name, it's Ye Anshi, the current head of the Tianwaitian Sect. And the omega Xiao Se. — the last words shocked everyone.

 

His friends looked at him with shocked faces, but Wu Xin paid no attention to them, not taking his gaze off the two lords.

 

— Omega? The sixth prince is consorting with a demon from the Tianwaitian clan? An inferior omega from the demon clan! — the general asked with a growl.

 

Wu Xin looked at the general with a dangerous look and clearly said:

 

— Watch your words, General. Because this, as you said, insignificant omega can kill you without blinking an eye. Or don't you know what martial arts I'm good at? Neither of you will walk through that door and get anywhere near my alpha, I will kill you both before you try to enter the room. Better back off while I'm being kind. You think there's no one to protect Xiao Se? You shouldn't make me angry.

 

— How dare you, demon?! Know your place, omega! — growled the general.

 

But he was restrained by the Marquis of Lanyue:

 

— Ye Anshi, your time as a hostage has expired, you have no right to interfere in the affairs of the Baili Kingdom. Even if the Sixth Prince is your alpha. These are the affairs of the Baili Kingdom. — Marquis Lanyue said.

 

Wu Xin only grinned at his words and replied:

 

— If I wasn't here, you two would have taken Lord Yunan's body with you. Xiao Se's guards know that I barely managed to save him from death. Ah, what ungrateful lords of Tianqi City. I must warn you, as Master Wanyu's disciple, not to accumulate karma for yourself. — Lei Wujie almost laughed at his words, only Wu Xin could be so bold and fearless in front of powerful lords.

 

— You are a brave young clan leader, I must give you credit. But there will be a price to pay for your insolence with the elders, continue to disrespect us, and you will suffer the consequences. — Marquis Lanyue spoke in a warning tone, frowning.

 

Wu Xin didn't even flinch at such a threat, only grinning in response:

 

— God... You still don't care about the health of a great man like Xiao Se. I have already fought powerful masters. No one would dare to capture Xiao Se while he is still unconscious. — The others were also wary and gripped the hilt of their swords, ready to fight to their last breath.

 

A Divine Healer came out to them and stopped the fight before it started, informing them that Xiao Se was still in danger of death, that there was no point in their fight.

Chapter 12

In the end, they all retired to another room and started discussing options that would help cure the sixth prince completely. But Wu Xin wouldn't agree to that, because there was no way he would let his alpha go to the capital where his worst enemy Xiao Se was patiently waiting for him.

 

— Wars are not just fought with soldiers and weapons. They hold a lot of intrigue and true power. — Wu Xin spoke up after hearing the general's words.

 

—If the leader of the Tianwaitian Clan is worried about it, then don't be. There is no one in the Baili Kingdom who is more cunning than Xiao Chuhe. — Marquis Lanyue recognized this.

 

At this moment, the door opened and Xiao Se himself entered with the words:

 

— Uncle, I am honored by your words. But I will still go to the island to be treated.

 

— Xiao Se... — Wu Xin whispered and immediately rushed towards the alpha to support him.

 

But Xiao Se surprised him by placing a hand on his cheek and leaning over to kiss him in front of everyone.

 

Ignoring the others, Xiao Se wrapped his beloved omega around his waist and pulled him to him, kissing him deeper and deeper, and when they were out of breath, pulled away and embraced him, surrounding him with his scent, even though there was pain in his scent. Afterward, he looked at his uncle and General Ye Xiaoying warningly.

 

The general jumped up from his seat and angrily said:

— Sixth Prince, what are you doing messing around with this demon? He is not worthy of you.

 

Xiao Se pulled away from his companion, looked at him and said seriously:

 

— General, I don't think you should care who I'm associating with. — he then looked at his uncle:

 

— Uncle, I want my hidden pulse to be completely healed, and that can only be done on the heavenly mountain on the island of Penlai.

 

— But you can barely stand on your feet even now. How are you going to cross the sea? What good is it if you die before you reach this place? — Marquis Lanyue asked worriedly.

 

— It's worth a try if I can stop being a cripple and return to a normal life. — Xiao Se confidently said.

 

— You will be able to live a normal life in Tianqi City. — Marquis Lanyue insisted.

 

— I can only live as a sixth prince, but not as a martial artist. Uncle, don't you know me? A life without mastery is no life for me. — Xiao Se said.

 

To which the marquis sighed and spoke:

 

— But I have your father's orders to return you to the capital. I can't disobey him, Chuhe.

 

Xiao Se trembled with anger at the mention of the emperor and said sharply:

 

— Uncle, you know that I have never listened to that man. Especially after Uncle Langya's death, this person means nothing to me. Besides, this is not the first time I have disobeyed his orders.

 

After he said that, Marquis Lanyue got to his feet and asked:

 

— Chuhe, you still can't forget what happened to Xiao Ruofeng? It's been four years now, it's time for you to accept his death. It won't do you any good, nephew. Or do you want to repeat his fate?

 

Xiao Se took a step towards him almost stumbling, he was held back by Wu Xin, and he said in a dangerous tone:

 

— First of all, I will never rest until I live up to Uncle Langya's name. Secondly, I won't return until I heal myself because only then will I be able to resist anyone who wants to kill me. You know that Uncle Langya was not guilty of anything, he was sentenced to death by false accusations. And I will get to the bottom of this case, Uncle. You can tell the emperor that he won't be able to get rid of me as easily as he did with Uncle Langya. I Xiao Chuhe will not back down.

 

This time, Marquis Lanyue stared shockedly at his nephew and replied:

 

— What you say, Chuhe. Your father loves you, he will never condemn you to death. You are the most suitable of his sons, worthy of the throne. But if you reopen Xiao Ruofeng's case, the emperor might not like what you're doing, Chuhe. It's dangerous.

 

— What do you want me to do? Let the emperor brand my dear Uncle Langya as a traitor forever? That will not happen. Justice must be served, uncle. — Xiao Se said seriously.

 

Marquis Lanyue sighed and replied:

 

— How stubborn and proud you used to be, you still are. Don't you realize that because of Ruofeng's case, your father suspects that you want to rebel. Then none of us will be able to save you, Chuhe. Understand this.

 

— Uncle, I understand what you're saying. But I won't retreat. — he said firmly.

 

The Marquis of Lanyue shook his head and replied:

 

— As you wish, but I will give you only a year. After that I will take you back to the capital, whatever your condition.

 

— All right, Uncle. — Xiao Se agreed.

 

After that, Marquis Lanyue and General Ye Xiaoying withdrew.

 

Sikong Qianluo stood up and asked:

 

— So you chose Wu Xin as your omega?

 

Those looked at her, and Xiao Se replied:

 

— Yes, Wu Xin is my omega.

 

Sikong Qianluo stared at them for a few moments and then left the room without saying anything.

 

Xiao Se stayed with his friends for a while longer, only Sikong Qianluo didn't join them.

 

After that, he and Wu Xin returned to the room where Xiao Se had rested earlier.

 

Wu Xin carefully led the alpha over to the bed and sat down beside him. The alpha pulled the omega to him, and they lay in each other's embrace for fifteen minutes.

 

Xiao Se looked at his lover and said:

 

— Wu Xin, I have something to tell you.

 

Omega nodded:

 

— What, I'm listening.

 

Xiao Se exhaled and explained:

 

— I found out the truth about my real parents.

 

Thoth was surprised by his words and asked:

 

— Real parents? Aren't you Emperor Mingde's son?

 

Xiao Se grinned bitterly and explained:

 

— No. The Third Master of Snow Moon City and Baili Dongjun revealed the truth to me. I am actually not the Emperor's son, my real parents are Prince Langya and his omega Gu Jianmen.

 

These words dumbfounded the young omega and he asked in disbelief:

 

— What, how is that possible?

 

— Emperor Mingde, a few months after I was born, learned of the incredible power I possessed even from infancy and took me away from my parents, threatening them with my life and that of my unborn brother if they resisted. That's why I felt safer around them growing up. Turns out they were my parents.

 

After his words, the omega hugged his lover and started releasing a soothing scent.

 

A few feng later, Xiao Se pulled away from him and spoke while holding his hands in hers:

 

— Wu Xin, when we have our own children, let's not let them grow up as orphans without any of us. Let them not feel sadness over the fact that one of us will not be alive. They must not repeat our fates.

 

Wu Xin smiled at him and said:

 

— Do you think we can be together? I have a clan to rule, and you are the prince of this country. Even if you find out the truth, all of Jianghu will know that Xiao Chuhe is the sixth prince of the Baili Kingdom.

 

— For a moment, he was reduced to the status of a commoner. Now I know the truth: I am not the son of an emperor and have every right to live as I please. After all, the throne has meant nothing to me since my father died. Knowing the truth, this throne makes me even more disgusted. I just want to clear my father's name. After that, I will go anywhere with you. — Xiao Se replied to him.

 

Wu Xin smiled, walked over to him and kissed him lovingly. The latter reciprocated.

 

Gasping, they pulled away from each other and lay in bed, pressing against each other.

 

The young Tianwaitian clan head was by Xiao Se's side until they sailed to Penglai Island, and then promised to join them halfway because he had business to attend to as well.

 

Xiao Se was of course upset that his lover wouldn't be traveling to the island with him, but agreed that his omega would definitely join them before they reached the appointed place.

Chapter 13

A week later.

Wu Xin finally joined his beloved, having settled all his affairs. His brother Sikong Lucheng had practically kicked him out of his own clan, explaining that he was sick of seeing his younger brother pining for the so-called alpha. Promising that he would watch over and run the clan until he saw fit to return. Truth be told, Wu Xin was very grateful to Lucheng for not hesitating to replace him as head and giving him the freedom to act and socialize with his new friends. Wu Xin certainly felt guilty for dumping the leadership of the clan on him, but he really missed his friends and alpha, and the time they had spent together. And he didn't want to limit himself to running the clan Lucheng, his so-called older brother, had saved him. And he let the alpha take care of himself as he wished. He hoped that Sikong Lucheng would indeed become the real, loving brother he had dreamed of since he was a child. Besides, Lucheng was more suited to the role of head than he was. And he would cede his place as head to him if it meant he could be there for Xiao Se and the rest of his friends.

 

At this moment, Wu Xin was in the room where his alpha was stationed on the ship bound for Penlai Island.

 

Suddenly, they heard a shout:

 

— Xiao Se! They're looking for you! — It was Lei Wujie shouting for their sixth prince to come on deck.

 

Xiao Se heard his words, exchanged a glance with his lover, and the two of them walked out of the cabin.

 

At that moment, the sixth prince saw another ship stop next to their vessel and saw Xiao Lingchen on it, his own brother since he had learned the truth. For a moment, the prince's breath caught and he stared at his younger blood brother unceasingly.

 

Wu Xin, noticing his frozen state, gently intertwined their fingers and squeezed the alpha's palm in a gesture of encouragement for him to come to his senses.

 

Xiao Lingchen examined the sixth prince, making sure that he was indeed alive, that he was real, living and breathing, not dead and not a ghost before his eyes. He had been horrified when he had learned the fate of his adored sixth prince four years ago. He was saddened when he learned that someone had destroyed Xiao Chuhe's martial arts. He was informed of this by the then mentor of the sixth prince, the previous head of the Baixiao clan, Ji Ruofeng. When news of the sixth prince's appearance reached him, who was currently on his way to Penglai Island, he immediately set off across the sea to catch up with him and finally see Xiao Chuhe after a long separation.

 

For several minutes, the princes and part-brothers of the Baili Kingdom stared at each other unceasingly. Xiao Lingchen noticed something else in the sixth prince's gaze and face, some complex emotion that he couldn't understand. After finally coming to his senses, Xiao Lingchen walked over to the other ship and lowered himself onto the deck not far from Xiao Chuhe.

 

The other friends of the sixth prince warily watched the other man who had joined them, ready to fight to the last man if this stranger hurt their friend, Prince Yunan.

 

Xiao Lingchen's face relaxed, a soft smile appearing on his lips as he gazed at the sixth prince without averting his gaze.

 

When Xiao Chuhe saw the soft expression on the other's face, he felt like his own father Xiao Ruofeng was looking at him right now and his own face distorted in pain. He released his hand from the grip of his date, the latter readily stepped aside. And Xiao Chuhe using his Qinggong in two steps ran up to his brother and rushed to embrace him, pulling him close to him.

 

Xiao Lingchen swayed from the collision, for a moment surprised by the sixth prince's action, but in response, he hugged the other one as well.

 

— Lingchen... — Xiao Chuhe whispered squeezing his younger brother's shoulders, a lone tear running down his cheek.

 

He frowned at the pain and sadness in Prince Yunan's voice and soothingly stroked the other's tense back with his hand.

 

A few minutes later, the Xiao princes pulled away from each other, finally looking into each other's face.

 

Xiao Lingchen saw the tears in the other's eyes and frowned, asking:

 

— Chuhe, what's wrong? — he asked worriedly.

 

Xiao Chuhe raised a trembling hand put it to his brother's cheek and intermittently inhaled and exhaled whispering:

 

— Lingchen…

 

The other didn't understand why Xiao Chuhe was acting this way and took his hand away from his cheek and squeezed it while checking the other's condition.

 

Minutes later, his eyes widened in horror when he found out that Prince Yunan was very weak and was only holding on by sheer willpower alone, his internal meridians were torn to shreds, and he realized that he was slowly dying.

 

Xiao Lingchen looked at the sixth prince with concern and spoke out:

 

— You're dying, Chuhe. Why?

 

Xiao Chuhe finally came to his senses calmly replied:

 

— I'm not going to die if that's what you're worried about. That's why I'm heading to Penglai Island. There, in the heavenly mountain, I will be able to cure my hidden pulse.

 

After his words, Xiao Lingchen breathed out a sigh of relief and replied:

— Thank the gods. Why didn't you inform me that you actually stayed alive after... after everything that happened? I've been looking for you for four years. And you haven't sent me a single message, you could have let me know you were okay. I thought you were dead after all. — he said reproachfully.

 

Xiao Se looked away and replied:

 

— What would change if you knew where I was all this time? It doesn't matter anymore. I'm here isn't it, we eventually met again.

 

His answer did not please Xiao Lingchen and he spoke coldly, an alpha voice slipping into his tone:

 

— It doesn't matter? Can you hear yourself? I was horrified when I heard the decree that you had been demoted to commoner. And then I was informed by your mentor that someone had destroyed your fighting prowess. And I haven't heard from you in four bloody years. Didn't you think how I'd feel not knowing if you were okay, Chuhe? Why didn't you tell me? Are we not close anymore? Don't you trust me anymore? Answer me! — he bellowed.

 

Lei Wujie hurriedly intervened when he saw the threat:

 

— Hey! Young Master, who are you to demand answers from him? Xiao Se doesn't have to answer to you.

 

The others sighed, realizing that Lei Wujie had interfered with the other two alphas' conversation for nothing.

 

Xiao Lingchen looked at him sharply, and he flinched at the alpha's stern gaze, realizing that the stranger was a very strong alpha.

 

— Who are you to interfere in my and Chuhe's conversation? My name is Xiao Lingchen, I am the son of the late Prince Laniya, Xiao Chuhe's cousin. I have the right to demand answers from my brother, none of you have the right to interfere with Prince Baili's conversation. Whoever you are, stay away from me and my brother. I will tear to shreds anyone who comes near Chuhe. So unless you want to be killed, keep your mouths shut. Otherwise...

 

Xiao Se hurriedly intervened, grabbing his brother's elbow and uttered:

 

— Lingchen, there's no need to threaten them. They are my friends and my guards. It's okay.

 

He looked at him and replied:

 

— These four are your guards? No wonder you feel bad. With the level of martial arts they have, they won't be able to protect you properly. Couldn't you have found more worthy ones? — he asked reproachfully.

 

Sikong Qianluo and Lei Wujie stared at him indignantly.

 

Xiao Se rolled his eyes, sighed, and replied:

— Lingchen, I met my friends not too long ago. And they became my guards just when we traveled to Penglai Island. So my condition is not their fault. And the monk is not my guardian, he is... he is my match, my omega.

 

At these words, Xiao Lingchen looked first at him with shock, then at the monk in white, the latter gave him a benevolent smile.

 

Wu Xin walked over to them, standing beside his alpha and folding his hand in a gesture of monk-style greeting, he spoke:

 

— My name is, Wu Xin. I'm just a small, heartless monk of the Cold Water Temple. But if you need a name. This is Ye Anshi, the current head of the Tianwaitian clan.

 

His words startled Xiao Lingchen and he responded to his gesture of greeting as well, then replied:

 

— The same Ye Anshi who was held hostage for twelve years by the agreement of the Suoshenghe Treaty in the Central Plains? And the one who became the head of the demon clan not too long ago. No wonder Chuhe liked an omega like you. — he turned his gaze to his brother.

 

He merely snorted at his words, crossing his arms over his chest.

 

Wu Xin made a surprised face and asked:

 

— Оh? Why would Prince Xiao think that?

 

Xiao Lingchen scrutinized the monk's face and replied:

 

— Because you are like Chuhe, you are similar. You look innocent, but your eyes are calculating and cunning, you are not a simple man. A man with his own mysteries. And Chuhe has always liked complicated people. I think that's what got his attention. If a man like the head of Tianwaitian is by my brother's side, I think I can rest easy. Besides, you are the strongest amongst the rest of Chuhe's friends, I can tell that just by looking at you. Please take care of my brother for me. — folding his hands in front of him, Xiao Lingchen bowed.

 

Wu Xin hurriedly lifted him from his bow and replied, looking at the alpha:

 

— You don't need to ask me to do this, Prince Xiao. I will do it of my own free will. Because I value your brother very much, if something happens to him, I won't forgive myself.

 

Xiao Lingchen smiled softly again:

 

— Thank you.

 

Xiao Chuhe pondered whether to tell his younger brother the truth that he knew about. He could keep the truth from him, but in the end it would still come out sooner or later. And Xiao Lingchen deserved to know the truth, he just needed to keep the younger alpha from doing something rash.

 

— Lingchen, we need to talk. I have something you need to know. But first, I want you to meet some of my friends. —

 

Xiao Se nodded to senior apprentice Tang.

 

The latter moved towards them along with the still wary Lei Wujie, Sikong Qianluo, and Ye Ruoyi.

 

Tang Lian bowed first, folding his hands in front of him:

 

— This Snow Moon City's senior disciple Tang Lian is my teacher, the first master of Baili Dongjun Winemaking.

 

Xiao Lingchen nodded to him:

 

— It's a pleasure to meet you, Senior Apprentice Tang.

 

The daughter of the Immortal Spearman was next:

 

— I am Sikong Qianluo, the daughter of the third master of Snow Moon City.

 

Xiao Lingchen nodded to her in response.

 

— My name is Lei Wujie from the Lei School, Thunderstrike Temple. — the alpha in red bowed.

 

After Xiao Lingchen looked at General Ye's daughter and said:

 

— It's good to see you, Ruoyi. Thank you for supporting Chuhe.

 

The latter smiled and nodded at him:

 

— It's good to see you again, Lingchen.

 

Xiao Lingchen replied, smiling:

 

— So you have followed in the footsteps of your parents and masters. The only thing missing is a fourth guard. Why hasn't the White Tiger guardian joined you? — he asked his brother.

 

— She said that she would join us when she deemed it necessary. — Xiao Se explained.

 

— Ah, Ji Xue... — said Xiao Lingchen.

 

— Come on, we need to talk. — with these words, Xiao Se headed to his quarters, the others followed him.

 

Xiao Lingchen walked over to his brother and put his arm around his shoulders, pulling him close to him. When he looked at him, the latter only smiled innocently.

 

Xiao Se rolled his eyes, but a faint smile played on his lips.

Chapter 14

A few minutes later, the group of young men were seated in the sixth prince's quarters.

 

Wu Xin sat next to his alpha, holding his hand, realizing that he could use some support from him.

 

Opposite Xiao Se was his younger brother.

 

— What important thing did you want to talk to me about, Chuhe? — Xiao Lingchen asked, looking at the other with a soft expression on his face.

 

Xiao Se sighed and spoke:

 

— Emperor Mingde has two native sons, and the third is not his son at all.

 

These words dumbfounded everyone except Wu Xin.

 

— What, this means that one of the three princes of the Baili State was adopted? — Xiao Lingchen asked in surprise.

 

— I... that's right, or rather one of the three princes was forcibly torn away from his real parents. This prince had recently learned the truth from the first and third master of Snow Moon City . — Xiao Se spoke heavily after looking at his brother.

 

Xiao Lingchen frowned at his words and muttered:

 

— And do you know which of the princes is not the emperor's native son? Could it be that it's Xiao Chong? Or Prince Chi?

 

Xiao Se firmly looked at him and replied:

 

— It's... the one who was forcibly separated from his parents, it's me, Lingchen.

 

There was a stunned silence after his words. No one present would have ever thought that Xiao Chuhe was not actually the current emperor's own son.

 

— What? — Xiao Lingchen asked in shock.

 

— How come you were adopted, Xiao Se? — Sikong Qianluo asked.

 

— You said that you were forcibly torn away from your parents? Does that mean that the emperor took you away from your real parents? — Tang Lian asked incredulously.

 

— You know who your parents really are, don't you? — Ye Ruoyi asked, scrutinizing her childhood friend's face.

 

After saying that, Xiao Lingchen looked intently at the sixth prince and, seeing that he was avoiding his gaze, asked:

 

— Why aren't you looking me in the eyes, Chuhe? After all, what you're saying has something to do with me, doesn't it? Well, don't be silent, brother.

 

Xiao Se finally looked at him and replied:

 

— ... I am your sibling, Lingchen. I am the firstborn of Lord Langya and his consort Gu Jianmen. Emperor Mingde found out that I had incredible strength as a baby and took me in. If Lord Langya and Head Gu had resisted, he would have taken you away from them as well. The emperor also threatened you and me with death: he would kill both me and you if our parents didn't let the emperor take me away. The first and third masters of Snow Moon City told me the truth that you and I are siblings, the sons of Lord Langya. That the man I called uncle since childhood turned out to be my father. I... it was a real blow to learn that I was not the Emperor's son, but the son of the man he condemned to death. The emperor had ruined my life with his own hands, allowing me to live a lifetime of lies. I... I don't know what to do with this truth now.'' — Xiao Se spoke with pain in his voice.

 

There was a deafening silence after his words, but it was interrupted by Xiao Lingchen, the air around them became several degrees colder when the alpha spoke:

 

— Is that true? You're my older brother, aren't you? Emperor Mingde destroyed our family, then. That man dared to take you away from us? That's why for as long as I can remember, Father's gaze was always sad when he looked at you. Of course it hurt him when his own son called him uncle instead of father. That's not all, is it, brother? What else has he done to our family? Tell me, Chuhe, please. — he looked at him pleadingly.

 

The others kept their mouths shut, not daring to interfere in the conversation between the brothers. But they were also shocked by the sixth prince's words. Hardly believing that the current emperor was such a cruel person who separated a child from his parents.

 

— Baili Dongjun informed me that the emperor was involved in Gu Jianmen's death, he was the one who secretly ordered the disposal of our father's omega. The third master confirmed this. And according to them, the emperor was also involved in me losing my strength. Because I supported Lord Langya and kneeled for three days and three nights asking him to overturn our father's death sentence. I was demoted to a commoner and when I was riding away from Tianqi City one night, I was attacked by a very strong martial artist. It was the lone swordsman, Luo Qingyang. According to the Immortal Swordsman Master, the emperor sent this person after me to finish me off because I dared to go against his decree. — he finished speaking.

 

— Oh gods... — Sikong Qianluo said in horror as she looked at Xiao Se.

 

Xiao Lingchen rose to his feet and started pacing back and forth, trying to calm himself down, but he was unable to do so and turned to his brother and spoke in a dangerous tone:

 

— The Emperor was involved in the death of our parents and almost killed you, my older brother? That man ruined our family. If it wasn't for him, we would have lived happily, our parents would be alive, they didn't die in vain. Why did the emperor do such a cruel thing to his own brother? Our father was such a kind man and died for nothing. And our other parent, what did he do to the emperor? How dare he do this to us? What did we do to him? That he left us orphans, that he almost took the life of you, my eldest brother. For what?! — he roared with anger and pain, tears glistening in his eyes.

 

Xiao Se rose to his feet and walked over to his brother, placing his hand on his shoulder and squeezing it for support, he said:

 

— Because the emperor was afraid that our father would rebel and remove him from the throne. I was punished for supporting Lord Langyia and asking the emperor to revoke the death penalty decree. But I will surely heal and by all means vindicate our father's name and remove the label of traitor that Emperor Baili hung on him. I will not rest until I get justice for Lord Langya, for our father, Lingchen. — he said with conviction.

 

Xiao Lingchen hugged his brother, pulling him close to him and spoke:

 

— I promise you that I will be by your side all the way. If you need troops, I will get them, if you want to get rid of the emperor's sons, I will be by your side every step of the way. I will not let the emperor destroy my older brother. We'll ask him why he killed our parents. I promise you, Chuhe, big brother. This younger brother will take care of everything, you just tell me.

 

Afterward, they pulled away from each other and Xiao Se ironically spoke out:

 

— Shouldn't the older brother take care of the younger brother? Do we have it the other way around?

 

Xiao Lingchen grinned and replied:

 

— We will take care of each other, Chuhe. If our parents were alive, they would be proud of us. Because we don't antagonize each other like Xiao Chong and Xiao Yu do to us.

 

Xiao Se disagreed:

 

— The second prince doesn't antagonize me, he treats me with respect, avoids dirty tricks against me. He's not bad as a politician. Better than Xiao Yu.

 

Xiao Lingchen hummed at his words and said:

 

— Anyone is better than Xiao Yu. He is an idiot obsessed with his power ambitions, doing the real crime. But none of the two of them are as worthy of the throne as you, Chuhe. You know that, don't you?

 

— I understand, but you know me, Lingchen. I've always wanted to live a free life, wandering around Jianghu of my own free will. Not tied to the throne and Tianqi City. I want to live the life I want. Our father didn't fight for power and I don't want to do that either. Besides, once I know the truth, I don't want to become emperor. I just want to live up to our father's name, after living freely with my omega and our friends. — Xiao Se said.

 

— Okay, whatever decision you make, I will always support you. — Xiao Lingchen supported him.

 

Xiao Se smiled at him with the corners of his lips and replied:

 

— Thank you. — sincerely he said.

 

— You don't need to thank me, big brother. Even if you weren't my own elder brother, I would still be on your side, Chuhe. We grew up together as brothers. You can always rely on me. — Xiao Lingchen sincerely spoke out, smiling at him.

 

After that, they returned to their seats.

 

Lei Wujie finally couldn't stand it:

 

— My goodness, I never thought that a grumpy money-loving innkeeper would turn out to be the sixth prince of Tianqi City. And now he's also the son of the late Lord Lanyia. Unbelievable! Oh my God!

 

Xiao Se rolled his eyes and reached out to slap him, for he was sitting not far away from him.

 

— Xiao Se! — Xiao Se was indignant, rubbing the back of his head where the blow had hit and looking at his friend with resentment.

 

He snorted and rolled his eyes.

 

— We all agree with Lei Wujie. This is really an incredible case, it's hard to believe. — Ye Ruoyi said.

 

The other friends agreed with her words.

 

— I wish I could meet Xiao Se's parents in person. I would tell them how greedy their son is for money. — Lei Wujie reprimanded his friend.

 

— It's your own fault for owing me eight hundred liang. I didn't ask you to destroy my inn. Besides, the Third Master of Snow Moon City paid for you, so why are you complaining about me now? — Xiao Se frowned unhappily.

 

— And I'd tell them you're awfully fond of your fox coats. You kept telling me all the way to Snow Moon City how much your coats and robes cost. I acquired such a terrible knowledge of fabrics that I'll never forget it. You even refused to sell one of your coats so we could eat proper food. Because of you, I was very hungry. Brother Xiao, do you hear that? He chose to starve to avoid selling his very expensive fur coats. How can you be so stingy? — Lei Wujie spoke pitifully to Xiao Lingchen.

 

A chuckle burst out of Xiao Lingchen because of his words.

 

Xiao Se only hummed at the guy in red and black robes and spoke out:

 

— Do you know how much my robes and fur coats cost? They're more expensive than you could ever imagine. Of course, I would never sell them. Who do you think I am?

 

— You see, Brother Xiao? You see? — pointing at the sixth prince with his finger, Lei Wujie spoke.

 

Xiao Se easily repelled his hand, saying:

 

— Don't point your finger at me, it's not polite.

 

The others laughed when they saw the indignant expression on Lei Wujie's face, and the atmosphere around them defused.

 

After a while, Xiao Se said:

 

— I'm tired, leave my room if it's not too much trouble. I would like to rest for a while.

 

The others of course agreed and rose to their feet to leave the room, as did Wu Xin.

 

But Xiao Se grabbed his hand and stopped him with the words:

 

— You can stay, Wu Xin.

 

— What, why is it that Wu Xin is allowed and we are not? — Lei Wujie indignantly asked.

 

— I completely agree with Wujie. We want to stay too. Are you chasing us away, Xiao Se? — Sikong Qianluo asked glumly.

 

But before Xiao Se could answer, Xiao Lingchen explained to him:

 

— Don't you understand? He wants to be alone with his omega. And spend time with him without our interference. Or do you want to stay and see what they do in private? — teasingly playing with his eyebrows, he said.

 

After saying those words, Xiao Se threw a pillow from the bed at him and muttered:

 

— It's not what you think, Lingchen. Don't talk nonsense!

 

That one caught the pillow and gently threw it back with the words:

 

— Don't you think so? He's your omega, and it's inherent for you to do things that aren't meant for other people's eyes and ears. — smirking, he said.

 

— You...! Get out of here! — Xiao Se shouted, throwing a pillow at him.

 

He laughingly ran out of the room saying:

 

— Hurry up and give me some nephews!

 

—Shut up, you idiot! — Xiao Se shouted out of embarrassment.

 

Only laughter could be heard in response.

 

The others quickly followed him out, fearing that the sixth prince would get angry with them.

 

After they left, there was silence for a moment and it was interrupted by a chuckle from Wu Xin, and he spoke:

 

— Your brother is an interesting person. I didn't think any of the princes of the Baili State could joke around. I always thought that princes rarely smiled or acted very serious so as not to lose face in front of outsiders.

 

Xiao Se calmed down, softened and replied:

 

— Lingchen has always been like this. Ever since he was a child, he was very mischievous and restless. He liked to play pranks on our father and Xiao Chong and me. He also didn't get along with Xiao Yu because he was always trying to hurt me. Because of that, Lingchen was always fighting with him. Xiao Chong became estranged from us when he got poisoned and went blind. He closed himself off from us and only interacted with us occasionally, but not as close as he used to. But as the oldest of us, he tried his best to take care of us. When we grew up, I considered Lingchen as my brother more than Prince Bai and Prince Chi. I was always closer to Lord Lianya and Lingchen than I was to the emperor and his sons. Apparently, deep down, I had always guessed that Lord Lianyia was my father and Lingchen was my younger brother. It's a pity I learned the truth too late.

 

— You and I both found our brothers. I have Lucheng, and you have Xiao Lingchen. Better late than never, isn't it? — Wu Xin said quietly.

 

Xiao Se raised his hand, pressed it against his omega's cheek, and spoke:

 

— I'll go crazy if anything happens to you, Wu Xin. I don't want to lose you. If something is bothering you, tell me and we'll find a solution together. Don't ever push me away, okay?

 

Wu Xin smiled at him and replied:

 

— I promise, Xiao Se. Everything will be fine. Very soon, you will be able to practice martial arts again.

 

Xiao Se leaned over and kissed his neck, inhaling the sweet peachy scent of his omega.

 

He exhaled, barely holding back a moan of pleasure, and muttered while catching his breath:

 

— Xiao Se...

 

— Mmm? — he muttered, not stopping kissing his omega's neck.

 

— I... Xiao Se, let me tell you something.... Xiao Se... — Wu Xin tried to stop his interlocutor.

 

The latter, realizing that he wanted to tell him something important, pulled back, looked at his slightly flushed cheekbones and asked:

 

— What's wrong?

 

Wu Xin exhaled and finally said:

 

— I have a heat wave starting in two days. And I would like to spend it together with you. Is that okay with you?

 

— You... you want me to be your alpha for real? But isn't it a little early for you? After all, you're still young, and getting pregnant at your age isn't too early? — Xiao Se cautiously asked.

 

— Do you think I'll get pregnant right away if I spend time with you? Don't omegas get pregnant when omega and alpha are in the same period of their cycle? — Wu Xin was genuinely surprised.

 

Xiao Se stared at him for a moment, then closed his eyes and shook his head, then looked back at the omega a moment later:

 

— Sometimes I forget that there is still something you don't know. To answer your question, when the omega's heat and the alpha's rut coincide at the same time, there's a good chance of getting pregnant with more than just one pup. But there is also a chance of getting pregnant if omegas spend their heat with their alpha, also during their heat an omega can demand his alpha to mark him as his own, claim him as his own. Do you want that? Do you want... do you want my puppy? — Xiao Se asked uncertainly.

 

Wu Xin took the alpha's hands in his own and replied:

 

— Xiao Se, I've liked you since we first met. I admit that you and I behaved a bit less than honorable in the beginning, fighting with each other. But traveling together with you and Lei Wujie, I first of all found you as friends. And only then did I see you as an alpha who took a liking to me, who acted grumpy and ironic but cared for me in his own way. Or do you think I didn't know that you carefully covered me at night with your fox coat so I wouldn't be cold when we slept under the stars? But when I woke up there was no way I could catch you taking your coat back. In that case, you were very thoughtful and careful. But I always appreciated your care. And with these little cares I liked you more and more. When I kissed you, I didn't think you would reciprocate my feelings. But I'm very happy that you did. Maybe you don't notice it, but you have the true aura of a Heavenly Emperor in you, the Inner Demon Drawing technique is actually perfect for you. And I'm glad that someone like you paid attention to an insignificant omega like me. And I'd be very happy if you and I had a puppy. To be honest, I've always wanted a family. I accepted you as my alpha a long time ago, and I wouldn't mind at all if you put your mating bite on me. But I also want you to belong to me, to wear my mark. If you agree, of course? — he asked with a soft expression on his face.

 

Xiao Se grinned and muttered:

 

— Of course you are possessive. Thank you for trusting me, I will take care of you, Wu Xin.

 

The latter smiled back at him and said:

 

— Good, I trust you. Now let's lie down together. — he pulled the alpha by the arm, so that they could get comfortable on the bed in each other's arms.

Chapter 15

Two days later.

 

Wu Xin and Xiao Se warned their friends that they would spend the omega heat together. None of them would bother them during those few days. Their friends agreed not to bother them during the heat wave and teased them about it. Xiao Lingchen, who was getting on his brother's nerves as much as he could during these two days, was the one who teased the most.

 

On the third day, Xiao Se and Wu Xin prepared everything they needed during the heat.

 

At night, they gradually started kissing each other. Then, they began to take off each other's clothes layer by layer.

 

After a while, the heat of the omega finally started to come up.

 

The cabin was already filled with the mixed odors of omega peach and alpha musk.

 

Wu Xin inhaled the fragrance and groaned:

 

— Xiao Se...

 

For a moment, the alpha froze, and then he lifted himself up, touched the omega's wandering hands and uttered:

 

— I'm here, I'm here… 

 

The young omega continued to beg:

 

— Xiao Se, please.... this is unbearable....

 

— Shh, it's going to be okay... I'll take care of you, let me.'' — With those words, he hovered over the omega, kissed him on the lips, and then moved down to his chest and took one of his nipples in his mouth and touched the other with his fingers, eliciting a moan of pleasure from the young omega's chest.

 

Engrossed in this activity for a while, the alpha didn't hear the omega's first urging, but came to his senses when he started to push him, and then looked up at the omega.

 

Wu Xin saw the man finally raise his eyes to him, and in a hoarse voice, he weakly said:

 

— Alpha... please, I... I need more, I can't.....

 

Thoth leaned down to his face and kissed the omega on the lips, intensifying the kiss, penetrating the omega's mouth with his tongue, exploring it.

 

After a few minutes he pulled away and continued downward, covering omega's body with kisses and bites, when he reached his lower abdomen he stopped without touching omega's cock, he took his legs and folded them in half and with his lips he pressed against omega's opening and began to lick it, tasting the juice of the secretions, he moaned as he tasted it and began to lick omega's opening, eliciting moans from omega's lips.

 

When the alpha was satisfied, he pulled away, then reached over and grabbed some oil from the nightstand, returning to his pair, he lubed his alpha member with it and gently began to penetrate the omega, the latter moaning in pleasure. After a few minutes, finally entering fully, he exhaled and began to move gently, also leaning in and kissing the omega.

 

After a while the alpha felt ready to tie the omega in a knot, and, kissing the neck of the other, said:

 

— Omega, I am going to tie you in a knot. Will you allow me to bite you?

 

Wu Xin only turned his head to the side, allowing access to his neck, giving tacit consent.

 

The one, realizing everything, licked the omega's neck, increasing his pace, and after a few minutes, cumming inside, finally forming a clutch, simultaneously biting his companion, claiming the rights to him forever, licking the bite site, easing the pain, then offering him his neck with the words:

 

— Wu Xin, omega, bite me back.

 

Wu Xin barely glanced at the alpha, and hugging him, he bit his gland, giving him his sign.

 

After that, Xiao Se made them both comfortable and lay down, cradling the omega against him, waiting for the knot to drop.

 

This was how they spent the five-day heat of the young omega. Alpha took care of his omega, feeding and bathing him as he came around when the heat subsided a bit.

 

Two days after the newly minted couple spent the omega heat, they were attacked by the Dark River Clan to end the life of the sixth prince. But they were caught off guard when the son of the late Lord Langyia, Xiao Lingchen and the third son of the Mu family of Qinzhou, the owner of the very ship that sailed to Penglai Island and delivered the sixth prince to that heavenly island, turned up.

In the end the Dark River Clan had to retreat, they realized that they couldn't defeat Xiao Lingchen and kill him, because otherwise Emperor Baili would bring Tianqi City itself down on their heads, because no one had the right to take the prince's life. They could have killed the former sixth prince because he was currently a commoner without titles and was their target, but Su Muyu didn't want the death of others other than Xiao Chuhe. Therefore, after realizing that he would not be able to end the former sixth prince's life this time, he decided to retreat. Besides, the young head of the Tianwaitian clan was on the ship, and if he and his men killed the head of the demonic clan, the entire clan led by the gray-haired Xian would come down on them. And Su Muyu didn't want to antagonize the Tianwaitian clan, so they retreated.

 

After a day, the ship finally reached its destination, Penglai Island.

 

Immortal Mo Yi himself found them and warned them to go back to where they came from. But the group of young masters couldn't get away from this place because they needed the Immortal Heavenly Mountain Immortal of Penglai Island to cure the Sixth Prince's hidden pulse. Immortal Mo Yi attacked them and the sixth prince's friends resisted him with all their might. When Immortal Mo Yi attacked the monk, he held back at the last moment because he smelled the scent of milk in the young omega's scent as well, which said that this omega was expecting a puppy. And he didn't want to hurt the innocent creature the young omega was carrying. Watching how this omega rushed into battle he assumed that he didn't know he was pregnant. Therefore, when Immortal Mo Yi confronted the monk he was merely defending himself without attacking him back.

 

Wu Xin also noticed that the latter was merely defending himself from his blows without striking him back. And asked:

 

— Why doesn't Immortal Mo Yi attack me?

 

— You'll understand the reason when the time comes. — That's all he said in response.

 

A while later, the first master of Snow Moon City, Baili Dongjun joined them and the advantage of the group of young masters grew.

 

In the end, the Wine master talked to Immortal Master Mo Yi, resolving the years-long conflict. And the latter finally agreed to cure the Sixth Prince's hidden pulse when Baili Dongjun informed him that Prince Yunan was actually the son of Xiao Ruofeng and Gu Jianmen, whom the current Mingde Emperor had forcibly taken away from his younger brother and his wife.

 

As a result, a group of young masters led by Baili Dongjun went to the white-haired immortal's house, and there the immortal Mo Yi cured the sixth prince, after which he put him to bed to rest properly.

 

After waking up the next day in the evening, the first thing Xiao Chuhe did was to sit up and meditate, circulating qi along the restored meridians.

 

An hour later at last, the sixth prince opened his eyes, stood up and left the room in search of his friends.

 

He found them outside the house in the gazebo.

 

Seeing the sixth prince, his friends and Xiao Lingchen jumped up and ran up to him.

 

— Xiao Se, you're finally awake. — Tang Lian said.

 

— How are you feeling? — Sikong Qianluo asked.

 

— Is everything alright with you, Xiao Se? — Lei Wujie asked worriedly.

 

— We were really worried about you. — Ye Ruoyi said.

 

— You, let him say something. — Wu Xin said this, after grabbing his alpha's hand checking his condition, finally exhaled in relief.

 

Xiao Se smiled at his friends and brother and finally replied:

 

— I'm fine. Really everything is fine finally in the last four years of my life. I am no longer helpless.

 

His friends and brother finally exhaled with relief.

 

— You're finally okay. Now we can seriously investigate our father's false accusation, Chuhe. — Xiao Lingchen said.

 

— That's right, Lingchen. — Xiao Se replied in agreement.

 

After a group of young people sat together until night, talking about everything in the world. They parted only when Lei Wujie started to fall asleep, and they went to the rooms that Immortal Mo Yi had allocated to them.

 

The next day, the group of young masters left Penglai Island, saying goodbye to Immortal Master Mo Yi and Baili Dongjun, who decided to stay here next to the white-haired immortal for a while.

 

A few days later, the ship finally arrived at the port of Snow Moon City. Xiao Se and the others invited Mu Chunfeng to the third master's manor of Snow Moon City.

Chapter 16

A few months later, all of Jianghu was in an uproar when they learned of the return of the sixth prince, Lord Yunan. All those who had tried to remove Xiao Chuhe became even more active in eliminating the sixth prince to prevent him from entering Tianqi City.

 

The first were the representatives of Wu Shuang City, led by Lu Yuzhae, whom Lei Wujie had gone to stop.

 

Tang Lian went to stop the head of the Se family of the Dark River Clan.

 

Sikong Qianluo went to meet Locheng's army and detained them. She was joined by Ye Ruoyi with the troops of her father, General Ye.

 

Yan Zhantian got in Xiao Se's way, but did not kill the sixth prince, and only after talking to him got out of his way, promising that he would be sure to kill him in their next encounter.

 

At this time, Wu Xin was in the Tianwaitian clan. After finding out that she was pregnant, he informed his alpha, Xiao Se was of course excited to be a father in a few months. But he had persuaded his omega to return to the clan so as not to endanger himself and their unborn baby. After all, all of Jianhu had learned that the sixth prince would be traveling to the city of Tianqi to meet the emperor. And those who did not want Xiao Chuhe to get to Tianqi City tried their best to prevent him. Therefore, the sixth prince, fearing for the lives of his couple, persuaded him to go to Tianwaitian. He was sure that his omega would be taken care of there.

 

Nearly nine months had passed, and Wu Xin had finally given birth to a boy. The young head of the Tianwaitian Clan, five months pregnant, sent his brother, Sikong Lucheng, to Snow Moon City to help his alpha get to Tianqi City. The young alpha didn't want to leave his pregnant brother behind, but Wuxin left him no choice and he was forced to return to Snow Moon City. Thus, only the gray-haired Xian remained by Wu Xin's side.

 

A week later, just as he gave birth to a puppy, the head of Tianwaitian received news that the movement in Jianhu had finally begun.

 

Sikong Lucheng had sent him news of the masters that the four guards of the sixth prince would be facing. The most dangerous opponent among them was the Dark River Clan that Tang Lian would be facing. And Wu Xin was currently sitting in one of the gazebos of his clan's main building, reading his brother's letter.

 

Mo Qixuan was sitting across from him at this time, holding the newborn son of his young head in his arms.

 

— Uncle Mo? — Wu Xin called out.

 

The aforementioned looked at him and asked:

 

— Do you need something, chief?

 

— This letter my gage sent me says that the guards of the sixth prince went to confront those who wanted to stop my alpha on his way to Tianqi City. I have no doubt they can handle them, but the Dark River Clan is not an easy opponent for my friend Tang Lian. And I would like to join him Will you be able to take care of my clan and son while I'm gone? — He asked.

 

— But, Head, you gave birth only a week ago. And your presence is needed by your son, he will subconsciously seek you out. I don't think that's a wise decision, Head . —Mo Qixuan disagreed.

 

— Xiao Shengji is gradually getting used to you, Uncle Mo. Besides, I won't be away for more than a day. Please take care of my son. My friend needs my help. I can't leave Tang Lian alone to fight to the death against the Dark River Clan. — Wu Xin said firmly, allowing no objections from his uncle.

 

The man sighed and agreed:

 

— All right, Head, as you command. I will take care of your son.

 

Wu Xin said goodbye to his son and uncle and went to help his friend.

Chapter 17

Two hours later.

 

When Wu Xin arrived at the place, it was raining nonstop. As he approached the tavern where the duel between his friend and the Dark River Clan was to take place, he first saw the defeated fighters of the Dark River Clan, and when he went inside, he finally saw his friend sitting leaning against one of the pillars of the building. Noticing that he was breathing heavily, he rushed over to him and knelt down in front of him, grabbing him by the shoulders and shaking him with the words:

 

— Tang Lian, wake up! Tang Lian! — An alarm could be heard in his voice.

 

Senior Apprentice Tang slowly opened his eyes, saw Wu Xin's blurry silhouette in front of him, and said:

 

— Wu Xin… — he whispered.

 

— Yes, it's me. I'm here, Brother Lian. I'm going to save you now. Don't worry, everything will be fine. — Wu Xin quickly spoke, beginning to share his qi.

 

Tang Lian looked at the omega with a faint smile and placed his hand on top of his hand that was resting on his chest and said:

 

— I... I'm happy to see you one last time, Wu Xin.... I'm sorry.

 

— This won't be the last time we meet, Lian. You have yet to meet my son. And you will meet him. Be patient a little longer, I will save you. — Wu Xin spoke anxiously, noticing that his qi was not healing his friend. He realized that he himself was feeling exhausted due to the recent birth and the long journey.

 

— Wu Xin... look at me, please. — Senior Apprentice Tang spoke with difficulty.

 

The one looked at his friend and his eyes filled with tears.

 

Tang Lian spoke again, seeing that he had caught the omega's attention:

 

— Wu Xin... I... am dying. Forgive me for not being able to meet your and Xiao Se's child. I wanted to see him so much. But I can't, I'm so sorry. When... when I'm gone, don't cry for me, okay...? I'll really miss you, our friends. You and the others should have a good life. I... I will watch over all of you from heaven.

 

Wu Xin couldn't stand it and interrupted him:

 

— No, no, no. You will survive, I won't let you go. You're not going anywhere, Lian. I'm sorry I'm late. — Tears ran down his cheeks.

 

Tang Lian looked at the omega with a soft smile and said:

 

— Don't cry, baobei. You know... I liked you the first time we met. You were so sweet and handsome that I wondered if there was such a fragile yet strong omega in this world. But you slipped away so quickly that I didn't have time to say a word to you. Before we met again, I was always thinking about you. Back then, I didn't realize how I felt about you. When you kissed Xiao Se, I realised it was too late for me. That you chose Xiao Se as your alpha. As I got to know him better, I realized that you two were better suited for each other. So I stepped aside, out of the way of the two of you. But I couldn't forget you and drown out my feelings. It didn't work out. I'm glad I was able to see you one last time when I was dying. Now I can die without regret. — Tang Lian slowly spoke out.

 

Wu Xin was amazed with his friend's words, he would have never thought that Tang Lian was in love with him.

 

— Tang Lian…

 

— No, don't say anything, Wu Xin. I just wanted you to know how I feel. That this humble apprentice of the Tang Clan loved you. I wish you and Xiao Se happiness. I'm sorry I didn't get to meet your little boy. I'm sure he'll have a better fate than any of us. Wu Xin, tell me what your child looks like. And what his name is.  — Tang Lian spoke with difficulty, looking at the omega with a soft gaze.

 

Wu Xin sniffed his nose and began to talk about his puppy. A few feng later, he was interrupted in his narration when Tang Lian smiled a farewell smile at him, after finally closing his eyes for good, his hand fell along his body helplessly.

 

— Lian... Tang Lian! — Shouted Wu Xin, shaking his friend to wake up.

 

But Senior Apprentice Tang no longer heard him, he no longer opened his eyes.

 

Wu Xin cried cradling his friend's body against him:

 

— No, no, Tang Lian. Wake up, please! Don't leave me! You can't die! No! — he sobbed as he hugged his friend, rocking back and forth.

 

He didn't want to believe that his friend was gone, that no one would ever smile embarrassedly at him again, that no one would ever offer him a drink together now.

 

Wu Xin, because of grieving over his dead friend, didn't notice anyone else. And the one who came in one blow, rendered him unconscious. After the monk lost consciousness Tang Lianyue took his disciple's body, leaving the monk in the tavern, leaning against the column of the building.

 

At this time, Xiao Se and her friends and brother were waiting for Tang Lian to return to the Sixth Prince's residence in Tianqi City. It was already evening and their friend was still gone.

 

Suddenly, a disciple of Snow Moon City arrived and bowed to the young masters and said:

 

— Old disciple Tang Lian died in battle against the Dark River Clan.

 

These words stunned the people present.

 

— This is nonsense! You must have misunderstood. — Lei Wujie refused to accept these words.

 

— I saw with my own eyes how Da-Shisun's body was sent to the Tang Clan. — said the apprentice.

 

The others froze at his words and Lei Wujie exclaimed:

 

— This can't be true! You're really wrong! Go away!

 

The man bowed and left the mansion.

 

Sikong Qianluo looked at the sixth prince and said:

 

— Xiao Se, send someone from here to the Tang Clan. To have him confirm that Brother Tang's death couldn't have happened.

 

But before either of them could do anything, a disciple from the Tang Clan entered the mansion. And bowed and said:

 

— The clan head said that Lian fulfilled his duty and hence died without any regrets. So don't be sad and put the big plan first.

 

— How did he die? — Xiao Se asked in an emotionless voice.

 

— He drank the Night of Seven Stars and died of exhaustion. — replied the disciple.

 

— Who killed him? — Xiao Se continued to ask.

 

— Head Se, Se Qidao from Dark River along with twenty-one assassins. He killed them all and died with them.

 

After the disciple's words, there was silence for a moment. Sikong Qianluo slumped down in his chair and almost fell down from grief.

 

Lei Wujie intermittently inhaled and exhaled, saying:

 

— This can't be, it's impossible. There's obviously some kind of mistake here. It's obviously a mistake!

 

— The clan head confirmed his death. — said one of the Tang Clan disciples.

 

Lei Wujie shouted at him:

 

— Excepted! Lian had always been able to avoid death. So why didn't he succeed this time? It's not like we didn't hold back, didn't interfere with him. How could he die? — He fell to the floor and sat on his ass.

 

— The chief said the Dark River was to blame for the elder's death. From now on, Dark River is our enemy. When the time comes for revenge, the Tang clan will do everything in its power to destroy them. In the meantime, I'll leave you to yourselves. — with these words, the Tang Clan disciple bowed to them and left.

 

— I will wipe them off the face of the earth. I will avenge Lian! — Lei Wujie exclaimed and then cried.

 

Xiao Se stood up and walked over to his friend and squatted down, putting his hand on his shoulder and said:

 

— Lei Wujie, don't let yourself be blinded by hatred. Lian died because of me. I will avenge his death. — he promised.

 

They sat like that for a while mourning their friend.

 

Suddenly, Wu Xin appeared on the doorstep of the mansion, leaning against the doorjamb. He looked dirty and shabby and spoke:

 

— Xiao Se...

 

The others who heard his voice turned towards the entrance and were shocked to see the young leader of the Tianwaitian Clan in a terrible state.

 

Xiao Se was the first to come to his senses, running up to his omega and putting his arm around his shoulders, he asked worriedly:

 

— Wu Xin, what happened to you? Why are you here?

 

— Lian... — Wu Xin whispered in a deadened voice, and then he threw himself into his alpha's arms, sobbing on his chest.

 

The latter, realizing that his pair had also learned of their friend's death, soothingly stroked his back.

 

Fifteen minutes later, Wu Xin finally pulled away from his alpha and looked at Lei Wujie, who was sitting on the floor crying silently. He staggered over to him and fell to the floor in front of his friend and spoke, placing a hand on his shoulder:

 

— Lei Wujie…

 

The latter looked at him and in a trembling voice said:

 

— Wu Xin, they say that Brother Lian is dead. That... that's not true, is it? Tell me it's not true.

 

— I... unfortunately it's true, Lei Wujie. I met him for the last time. — replied Wu Xin, finally coming to his senses more and less.

 

— What do you mean you saw him for the last time, Wu Xin? — Sikong Qianluo asked.

 

Wu Xin made himself comfortable on the floor next to Lei Wujie, looked at the girl and replied:

 

— When I received my gage's letter, I went to help Lian in the battle with the Dark River Clan. But I was too late. When I arrived, everyone was already dead and Lian was barely breathing. But he was alive I was able to talk to him before he died.

 

He was interrupted by Sikong Qianluo, who jumped up from her seat and exclaimed:

 

— Why didn't you save him! You could have saved him, Wu Xin! Why didn't you do it?! You just sat there and watched him die?!

 

— Qianluo. — Xiao Se interrupted her further accusations, then sat back in his seat and asked his lover:

 

— Continue, Wu Xin.

 

— Lady Sikong, do you think I didn't try to save him? I tried, but my strength wasn't enough. I'm very tired after having a baby a week ago. And the long journey had worn me out. I gave him all my strength, but it was useless. He… Lian died in my arms, in front of me, Qianluo. There was nothing I could do. Lian asked us not to cry over his death. He, uh. he said he would miss all of us. I'm sorry I couldn't save him. — He spoke in a choppy voice.

 

— Wu Xin, Tang Lian's death was not your fault. At least you were by his side when he was dying. He wasn't alone in the last moments of his life. — Xiao Se spoke softly.

 

Lei Wujie finally wiped away his tears and asked:

 

— You said you gave birth to a boy? Is this your and Xiao Se's child?

 

— Yes, I named him Xiao Shengji. After all, you can all come with me to Tianwaitian to see him. Xiao Se, will you come with me? — The man asked.

 

Xiao Se felt a thrill in his heart upon learning of his son's birth, knowing that he was now a father. He really wanted to see him and Wu Xin's baby boy, but he couldn't leave everything here.

 

— I'd like to see him, but I couldn't leave everything here, Wu Xin. You must go back to him and take care of him. When things are settled here, I'll come to you. Until then, please be careful. Take care of yourself and our son. — The sixth prince said regretfully.

 

Wu Xin nodded understandingly at him:

 

— I understand, Xiao Se. It's alright.

 

After the friends talked for a while, they went to their rooms.