To know you better

by Immortal_Zydra

Summary:

It was a tradition on Cang Qiong mountain for the succeeding disciples to be locked up together in one residence right before the Ascension ceremony takes place as a way to bond and get to know each other better.

On the very first day however, Shen Jiu gets accidentally drunk and starts spilling wild lore on the rest of his unsuspecting martial siblings.

In a strange turn of events, The others both greatly and hilariously misunderstand but somehow still end up coming with the right conclusions.

Chapter 1

Technically, it had been their Masters fault. 

 

The succeeding disciples should not have been forced to socialize in a locked room. Alone. Unsupervised. Although the current generation were scheduled to ascend soon , and yes, that will leave them officially in charge of an entire sect together, also Unsupervised… still their Masters should've known better.

 

It was a tradition of sorts for the succeeding disciples to start.. interacting for a couple of days before the official ascending ceremony. And by “interacting” they meant getting locked up in a single residence for a certain amount of days… (they have no idea how many exactly) in a decently sized house with only two bedrooms to be shared between them as they saw fit, a living room and a kitchen. There was a grand separate bath house connected to the residence in a truly luxurious manner (if nothing else most of them were looking forward to trying that out) 

With no paperwork_ yes Shang Qinghua, enjoy it while it lasts. no responsibilities and no fighting Yes Liu Qingge, you heard that correctly. And no you may not leave. The only thing they were ordered to do was Relax, socialize together and enjoy themselves.

 

There was only so much Sitting around in awkward silence they could do before boredom eventually took over. 

 

And when boredom took over a certain group came up with a nefarious idea. 

 

A drinking party using Zui Xian's hardest liquor,  the sweet serenity wine that was said to be strong enough to knock out even their own Sect leader. It was just that Qi Qingqi, Wei Qingwei and the succeeding Disciple of Zui Xian, Ru Qingchun decided that it would be tremendously funnier if they omitted the wine's true powerful effect in order to get Everyone drunk.

 

It was a harmless little prank. In fact, the wine was of the highest quality, only provided on special occasions or as a valuable gift to some other sect and had many benefits such as boosting one's cultivation and clearing the spiritual pathways, so in a way they were doing them a favor, really. And with their level of cultivation they shouldn't get seriously affected by it. 

 

It was only that They had forgotten one thing.. Shen Qingqiu had a lower cultivation level than the rest of them. And he had never touched alcohol before. 

 

For the next few hours none of them were prepared for the disasters awaiting them. The consequences of their own actions.

 

---

 

 

Qi Qingqi sat as unsuspiciously as possible. The brief eye contact with Ru Qingchun proved challenging as the other was uncharacteristically sober with shiny eyes and a small smirk at the edge of cracking into a full cackle that might expose them. Shen Qingqiu was many things but certainly not naive. It was a miracle that he nor anyone else hadn't sensed something was wrong with all the idiots shifting nervously around her.

 

The earlier excited Shang Qinghua seemed to have become a little conflicted as the bottles of wine were brought to the table, uncertainty clear in his expression.

 

He eyed the wine cautiously “Ah… it is our first day, perhaps it's unwise to drink so soon”

 

Ah… there it was. Her martial brothers had no balls. Not to mention Yue Qingyuan’s pathetic whimpering in front of Shen Qingqiu, even the rest of the succeeding disciples had no spine, minus a few. 

 

Naturally she rolled her eyes at him. “That is exactly why we should celebrate. Perhaps if they thought we were getting along so well to drink they'd let us go.” 

 

Shang Qinghua nervously looked at her, “But Qi Shimei… in that case wouldn't it be better to wait for Yue Shixiong's return?” 

 

Not over her dead body. Yue Shixiong's absence was precisely why she decided to do this. Maybe they could finally get Shen Qingqiu to spill his secret way of controlling their future sect leader. If the said man was here he'd immediately recognize the true potency of the spiritual wine and it would be impossible for them to prank the rest.

 

They only had tonight to accomplish their plans. As of Tomorrow, Yue Qingyuan would be back from his sect business and forced to be locked down with them for gods knew how long.

 

“Don't be an idiot Shang Shixiong, everyone gets along with Yue Shixiong already. Dare I say He's the most well liked disciple in our sect.” she threw a pointy non discreet look Shen Qingqiu’s way as she boldly proclaimed

 

From the side she could see Shen Qingqiu scoffing under his breath “of course he is…”

 

They all ignored him. Wei Qingwei even shifted uncomfortably where he sat next to him based on rank but said nothing. Unlike Liu Qingge none of them were stupid enough to shove their nose in what clearly was a private issue. Doesn't mean they liked it when the second in command upsets their future leader though.

 

Ru Qingchun personally served them their cups, he briefly made eye contact with Qi Qingqi and Wei Qingwei as he did, a reminder to themselves to never involve him in a prank ever again.

 

“Come on Shen Shixiong… make a toast.” Wei Qingwei gave him an easy going smile even though he felt uncomfortable leading his Shixiong into getting drunk on purpose 

 

Shen Qingqiu’s expression briefly became uncomfortable until he settled it in disgust as he looked at the wine.

 

He pushed his cup further away casually brushing his polite offer “I'll pass. You drink it if you want to so badly.” 

 

Overcome by irritation at his rude tone Qi Qingqi was about to defend Wei Qingwei when someone else jumped into the conversation

 

“Just drink the damn wine.” Liu Qingge snapped at him 

 

Raising a single eyebrow judgmentally, Shen Qingqiu looked him up and down provocatively “What is it to you brute, whether I chose to drink or not?” 

 

“I know you're used to lazing around all day long on your fancy peak but some of us have actual jobs that we must get back to. Drink the damn wine so we can leave.” he said it as if it's already settled that their Masters would set them free after drinking a single cup of wine.

 

It was Childish and petty since they knew Shen Qingqiu had no real reason to drink. Liu Qingge just wanted to pick a fight as always. 

 

Liu Qingge himself knew it was unnecessary and he also didn't know why he was picking a fight over a cup of wine of all things considering he wasn't fond of alcohol as well. That was a lie. he knew why, he had been on edge ever since this morning when he was thrown into the residence and told he was banned from fighting for the foreseeable future. Banned. 

 

Picking a fight with Shen Qingqiu felt natural. And maybe if he could prove Shen Qingqiu’s company would prove dangerous they would finally let him leave back to Bai Zhan.

 

Shen Qingqiu looked way beyond pissed and offended as his eyes sharpened into something cruel before he snapped his fan open with a smooth flick to hide his expression behind 

 

“Oh? If by a job Liu Shidi means rolling in the mud all day long and running through walls and private properties then you'll have to excuse this Shixiong for keeping you a bit longer than intended from your job as the mountains wild boar”

 

Alright, Liu Qingge saw that coming. He merely snorted instead of attacking; he felt a surge of confidence overtaking him for finding something that got underneath the other's skin.

 

“oh come on… it's just a small cup or is your cultivation so bad you can't even handle that?”

 

He could see the exact moment he got through as Shen Qingqiu’s mask broke, his eyes sharpened even more, his expression blank as he looked at him with murderous rage.

 

“Liu Shidi that was a very rude and a disrespectful thing to say” 

 

Liu Qingge looked Startled at Gu Qingbai the succeeding Disciple of Ku Xing peak and couldn't help but feel a little abashed at the reminder that the other couldn't drink either because he was a Monk. 

 

He felt the tips of his ears slightly redden at the reminder he opened his mouth to apologize but just before he spoke Shen Qingqiu had suddenly but quickly leaned over the small table and in a truly shocking display he snatched Liu Qingge's cup of wine and was back in his seat before any of them could blink.

 

All ten Disciples stared in astonishment at the usually composed Shen Qingqiu when he threw his head back and dawned the cup. He grimaced expecting the disgusting taste of wine to overwhelm him but the drink that went down his throat was surprisingly… sweet . Dare he say very pleasant with a subtle flowery undertone he doubted whether it had any alcohol at all. Huh, not too bad.

 

He looked Liu Qingge straight in the eye, not bothering to mask his hate. “Alright you brute. I'll drink.” 

 

He then proceeded to chug his own drink and then snatched Wei Qingwei's as well just to be petty.

 

He vaguely heard Wei Qingwei gasp as he covered his mouth with his hand in shock, ha! Serves him. He will just drink all the wine and see who lets them have their fun.

 

On the side Qi Qingqi watched half horrified, half fascinated with the sudden turn of events 

“Oh shit..” she cursed uncharacteristically as Shen Qingqiu drank Shang Qinghua's wine as well (his fourth cup) and was on his way for Mu Qingfang's share of the extremely potent spiritual wine.

 

“Nooo! Shen Shixiong stop! Don't drink anymore of that!” Ru Qingchun was awakened from his daze as he jumped to stop the other from potentially killing himself but the other not only pushed him off easily but also snatched the entire jar from his hand while he was at it.

 

Ru Qingchun seemed to have become even more panicked with his eyes wide open and his face now extremely pale

 

“Shen Shixiong, you proved your point, now put down the wine…” 

 

Wen Qingming, the succeeding Disciple of the Artifacts peak, well meaningfully tried to end the dispute “It's just a bit of wine. Let him have it” she pointedly pushed her cup towards their Shixiong, but just as she did three voices yelled at her “Shimei, NO!” The sudden loud noise Startled her badly enough for her to accidentally push the cup off of the table where it landed on the ground spilling its content, although thankfully it didn't shatter.

 

But just as it spilled, a very alluring fragrance started to seep from it filling the air with a sweet scent. 

 

More than one person started sniffing the air in confusion “What is that…”

 

Liu Qingge was the first to notice the strong spiritual essence in the scent, his mild amusement vanished into something hard “Ru Qingchun! Just what did you put in those cups!?" Although he knew none of them were likely to harm him, he couldn't help but remember that mission with Shen Qingqiu when he attacked him when his back was turned. unprovoked.

 

He cautiously eyed Li Qingtian's cup that wasn't touched yet. Mu Qingfang did the same with an alarmed, albeit much calmer manner.

 

“Li Shidi, would you mind handing me that?” 

 

Li Qingtian, The succeeding Disciple of the beast tamers peak obediently handed his over to the healer. His pupils were blown wide and he seemed like he wanted nothing more than to disappear into thin air ever since they arrived.

 

Mu Qingfang thanked him with a smile in an attempt to give him some sense of comfort, no doubt. He knew the other disciple had the tendency of shutting down faced with yelling or any type of loud noise. The other seemed to appreciate the gesture as his shoulders relaxed back.

 

Having sniffed the air earlier he already had his doubts, so he didn't bother with smelling the wine and directly took a small sip tasting the sweet, rich flavor. Comprehension immediately dawned on him as well as he questioningly looked at the guilty three trying to disappear from their seats

 

“This is the sweet serenity spiritual wine. I believe our martial siblings were trying to play a prank” 

 

While the others finally caught on, in that single minute where their attention was preoccupied and away… Shen Qingqiu had already chugged the rest of the bottle, once Ru Qingchun looked back he immediately leaped and ripped off the bottle from his hand.

 

“SHIXIONG NO!!”

 

Unfortunately, at that point it was already too late as Shen Qingqiu’s head swayed for a second and then at the multiple watchful eyes carefully observing him… he blinked and then all but dropped backwards to the ground like a show puppet that had its strings cut. Hopefully unconscious and not dead. Even though he was already seated, Wei Qingwei still grabbed him, preventing his fall no matter how short.

 

“Oh gods… Oh gods I killed Shen Shixiong… Shibo is going to kill me..” Ru Qingchun dramatically cried again, “Shizun's going to kill me!!” 

 

“They are the least of your concerns… Yue Shixiong's going to dissect you.” Liu Qingge absentmindedly admitted. Panic hadn't set in for him yet.

 

The sweet serenity wine was said to be so strong that regular animals explode if they consume it. Mortals were at the threat of having their organs fail from a single cup.

 

Cultivators would benefit from it greatly, assuming their cultivation is strong enough to consume the amounts of Qi in it. The single cup could be sold for a fortune and Ru Qingchun had casually brought a whole jar for no reason other than to get them slightly drunk. Admittedly the wine was beneficial for them, it wouldn't have been a big deal if Shen Qingqiu hadn't just accidentally consumed almost a whole jar just to be spiteful.

 

Liu Qingge felt like he had just been made an accomplice to a very serious crime.

 

“Us. He's going to dissect us.” Qi Qingqi corrected. 

 

She felt like she dug her own grave. Yue Shixiong wasn't only unfairly biased towards their second in command, it was a fact he was fiercely protective of him. During missions he'd always secretly pull the strings to assign him the safest and most interesting realms, always keeping him away from any unnecessary dangers. In the monthly distribution of resources he'd always assign the best benefits to Qing Jing peak and always from his top notch personal shares. 

If there was any kind of competition, Shen Qingqiu would always somehow acquire an item the same or of an equal value to the actual prize. So that No matter if he participated or not, if he won or lost, his presence alone would taunt everyone else about that fact.

Yue Qingyuan would never pull on his rank for anything… unless of course Shen Qingqiu was involved. And he was always involved.

The calm, talented, highly diplomatic sect heir would immediately lose any sense of decorum and start to fall on himself the moment Shen Qingqiu walks in just to try and please him.

 

And the fact that the other just kept ignoring or insulting him whenever they met added salt to the injury. Anyone would die for that kind of favor from the famed Xuan Su sword. 

 

Everyone but the person who has it apparently.

 

And now… on their very first day together and they had already accidentally killed him… 

 

“Yue Qingyuan is going to sacrifice all of us underneath the mountain as a tribute to resurrect Shen Qingqiu.” Shang Qinghua blurted amidst the deadly silence around them as he rocked himself back and forth therapeutically 

 

An evil cackle echoed around the room causing them to shiver.

Wei Qingwei looked down to find the source of the cackle to be staring directly into his soul with wide green eyes. He immediately jumped a few away in fright “Shen Shixiong!”

 

He then breathed a sigh of relief once he registered he wasn't a criminal anymore. “Oh I'm so glad you're alright Shixiong, I think I saw my life flashing before my eyes”

 

The other laughed wildly back as a reply. Which… wasn't very comforting. 

 

“Shen Shixiong…?” The other stared back at him with a wide smile, Wei Qingwei felt himself getting flustered at the sight his Shixiong made laying on the floor, with his long inky strands spread around him on the floor and his collarbone and wrists slightly peeking from his robes crumbled robes

 

“I think he's alright, might be a bit drunk though…” Ru Qingchun unhelpfully clarified 

 

“Oh you think? What gave it away?” Liu Qingge retorted sarcastically 

 

He could briefly see the others sighing in relief at the news, Mu Qingfang even uncharacteristically rolled his eyes at them as he checked Shen Qingqiu’s wrist.

 

“Of course he is. Shen Shixiong might not be ascending anytime soon but that does not mean his cultivation is weak enough for him to die from spiritual wine of all things. You do know he's a spiritual cultivator right?” 

 

At the end of his sentence he eyed the group judgmentaly as if he was assessing whether they needed a brain check, for the second time this night they felt themselves flushing but this time in embarrassment from the healer's gaze

 

“Well… why didn't you just say so from the start!? I was scared half to death” Ru Qingchun drank the last few sips from the jar to cope only to flush a deeper red when he remembered that Shen Shixiong had just drank directly from it. 

 

He knelt on the ground and hid his face with his hands to take a few breaths from sheer embarrassment.

 

“I had hoped I needn't to. It would do you all some good in the future to be less dramatic” he gave them a disappointed look before helping Shen Qingqiu into sitting once again.

 

Once he was seated with the support of the healer he once again started giggling for no apparent reason.

 

The sound of his laughter was both bewildering and somewhat pleasant to listen to. Mu Qingfang wasn't unaffected by it as he unconsciously Cracked a smile at the sound.

 

“What's so funny?” Liu Qingge scoffed although his tone had lost most of its edge.

 

Shen Qingqiu threw his head back and laughed again until his eyes settled on Liu Qingge “Oh Shidi~” he leaned over to settle his elbows on the table, casually supporting his chin on his palm as he looked at Liu Qingge from the top of his eyes “it's just so funny how you think you could kill me” at that everyone's smile immediately dropped.

 

Liu Qingge found himself swallowing nervously as looked away from his Drunk Shixiong's piercing green eyes. Those eyes should never be used like that with a smile.. It must be a crime somewhere, surely.

 

From the side, Qi Qingqi found herself regaining her senses. She eyed her two Shimeis worriedly. She'd have to be on the alert to protect them for the rest of the night… who knew what a drunk Shen Qingqiu would do once he lost all his senses. Or say, drunk or not He better not start anything or else Qi Qingqi would break his ribs. 

 

Seeming to have shared her thoughts, Wei Qingwei immediately went into action as he gently grabbed his arm “ah Shixiong, it's getting late why don't we retire for the night?” He pointedly pulled on his arm until Shen Qingqiu harshly elbowed his stomach making the other lose his breath from the hit, and dropping his arm in the process. 

 

“I'm not sleeping with you, Fuck off.” 

 

Wei Qingwei imitated Ru Qingchun's actions by curling on the ground and hiding his face in shame “Shen Shixiong!! I didn't mean it like that!” He whined with a high pitched tone at hearing the usually sophisticated Shixiong using such crude language.

 

More than one person started snickering as they unconsciously felt like their Shixiong might not be that bad when drunk. He was a lot more cheerful, funny and yes a bit creepy but it was manageable so far. They relaxed slightly, preferring to watch without interfering. 

 

Qi Qingqi felt another idea settling into her brain… Perhaps her efforts weren't completely ruined yet. She cleared her throat drawing attention to her.

 

“Hey Shen Qingqiu… since you're not tired, how about we play a game?”

 

Shen Qingqiu shrugged as he played with a strand of his hair “yeah… sure, whatever you want” 

 

“Let's play Shang Shixiong's game, ah… what was it called again?” she excitedly moved to tell Ru Qingchun to bring more wine for the rest of them.

 

“Never have I ever?” 

 

“Yes! That. It seemed like fun in the last gathering we had” 

 

They vaguely heard Shang Qinghua muttering miserably in the background “oh no… I'm so dead” 

 

Yan Qingyi, their resident fortune teller and divination master Grimly shook her head as she took off her beaded bracelet and smoothly grabbed the other's hand, settling it on the stunned Shang Qinghua's wrist “here,  Shang Shixiong. For divine protection.” 

 

Shang Qinghua felt his jaw drop as he eyed both her and the priceless bracelet which he knew was a cherished item. He touched the beads gently in his shock to confirm it… until something shifted in his expression to settle on understanding.

 

“Thank you Yan Shimei. I'll cherish it forever.” he said, his eyes had a suspicious wet glint in them as he held the bracelet with his other hand.

 

She patted his back in consolation and then moved back into her seat as if nothing had happened.

 

As if it was no big deal that she had just given him her very first creation. Her beaded jade bracelet which she had blessed herself with the power of divine protection when she had first stumbled upon her abilities.

 

To others it might not have seemed like a big deal, only he knew the true value of it. Yan Qingyi had been an orphan with no one in the world to accompany her. No family members and no friends, hell.. not even a pet. coming from almost nothing she made sure to create whatever she lacked herself for herself. She cooked and blessed her food with the best of intentions, dressed herself and stitched protection talismans all over the inner lining of her robes, and most importantly made jewelry by hand specifically to attract good fortune.

 

But This beaded bracelet was the most expensive thing she owned. She had carried it throughout her journey taking care of it and blessing it repeatedly each time she developed her ability and her sight strengthened as result the bracelet had become an impenetrable hidden treasure that could even protect the holder against one of Xin Mo's attacks.

 

And she just casually handed it to him. Not even his mother in both Lifetimes did anything like that for him.

 

Shang Qinghua felt his chest heavy with emotions as he brought his wrist closer to his heart and held it there feeling the warmth and sense of calmness emitting from it like a soothing balm.

 

“What is happening right now…?” Wei Qingwei Whispered non discreet to no one in particular in utter confusion as he lay on the ground watching as Shang Qinghua became speechless with stars in his eyes.

 

“Well… This day is proving to be most interesting…” Qi Qingqi muttered, fascinated.

Ru Qingchun had come back quickly replacing their cups, thoughtfully putting regular juice in front of Gu Qingbai just in case he felt like participating not wanting him to feel left out. The other gave him a small smile in thanks.

 

“Hey! I want some too~” Shen Qingqiu complained immediately,

 

“Sure thing Shixiong.” he wordlessly served him a cup 

 

Mu Qingfang felt a little concerned as he nudged Ru Qingchun “He shouldn't be having anymore alcohol.” The other gave him a slight wink “I know, I gave him a sweet juice. I doubt he could tell the difference.” 

 

And indeed Shen Qingqiu drank his cup pleasantly, he even complimented Ru Qingchun for it. Mu Qingfang felt himself relax as he sipped from his own cup.

 

Shang Qinghua helplessly explained the rules of the game once again underneath the expectant gazes of his martial siblings and then they started playing in earnest slowly settling into a comfortable atmosphere as they laughed whenever someone had to drink.

 

Everything was going well until it was Liu Qingge's turn… and for some reason the first thing that came to his mind was “never have I been engaged.” 

 

He expected none of them to drink, shockingly enough one person downed their juice.

 

Complete silence overtook the room as they all stared at Shen Qingqiu in varying levels of shock.

 

“You're engaged!??” It was Liu Qingge who accusingly pointed a finger at him, if that person turned out to be truly engaged and he still frequented pleasure houses then Liu Qingge was going to challenge him to a fight, banned or not.

 

Thankfully Shen Qingqiu shook his head. “Was.” 

 

Liu Qingge slightly calmed back down to sit. Although he briefly wondered if the other had perhaps run away from the engagement when he came to cultivate. It would certainly explain the lack of family members.

 

Qi Qingqi felt herself getting excited as a bold idea crossed her mind “who is it? Is it perhaps someone we know? Someone… on the mountain?”

 

Her martial siblings eyed her with understanding having the same idea cross their minds… could it be possible that Shen Qingqiu ended his betrothal to Yue Qingyuan?? But the other was still holding into the other for the hope of renewing their engagement? It would certainly create some wild gossip!

 

To her disappointment Shen Qingqiu shook his head again not caring about the disappointed looks all around him “no. She was a noble girl… lady?” He asked himself before shrugging off uncaringly 

 

“Woah Shixiong… a noble girl is a pretty hard catch. Was she pretty?” 

 

Feeling curiosity eating her alive, Qi Qingqi listened carefully in anticipation… the rest as well.

 

Unexpectedly Shen Qingqiu smacked Wei Qingwei's head 

 

“Ow… Shen Shixiong, why did you hit me??” Wei Qingwei grabbed his head protectively not having expected that

 

“Don't be stupid. All girls are pretty”

 

Everyone was now looking at their Shixiong in surprise someone even coed in the background that suspiciously sounded like Shang Qinghua 

 

Qi Qingqi found herself humming in approval “very true” she might've been slightly drunk too

 

“But was she nice? Did you like her?”

 

Shen Qingqiu immediately nodded “very sweet… very nice.” 

 

So obviously the problem didn't lie with the girl. Everyone's interest was piqued. Even the uncaring Liu Qingge seemed curious.

 

“Then why did your engagement end then?”

 

Shen Qingqiu tiredly sighed as he shook his head and drank another cup of juice “Her brother.”

 

Liu Qingge felt it was sensible, he helpfully offered “her brother didn't approve of you?” 

 

For some reason Shen Qingqiu started choking down his laughter “oh no, he also liked me” 

 

“then… What was the issue?” 

 

“That was the issue.” 

 

Liu Qingge was beyond confused now, so were the others.

 

“I don't understand. Why did your engagement end exactly?” he asked again 

 

Shen Qingqiu stopped holding himself back and wild laughter bubbled free from his chest “Because I killed her brother.” 

Notes:

Hiiii!

Long time no see, I come back with another fic XD

Hopefully you like it!

Btw: I absolutely suck at naming. but I did spend an unholy amount of time reading a Chinese dictionary in order to name the characters so they make sense at least... I think. But if the names did turn out to be a disaster please pardon me I don't speak Chinese tell me and I'll try some other names instead!

 

For reference here are the peak lords based on rank. The rank is the most accurate thing in this fic btw XD

 

1. Qiong ding- Diplomatics/ Yue Qingyuan
2. Qing jing- Scholars/ Shen Qingqiu
3. Wan jian- Sword experts/ Wei Qingwei
4. An ding- Logistics/ Shang Qinghua
5. Xian shu- All females/ Qi Qingqi
6. Ku Xing peak- Monk peak/ Gu Qingbai
7. Bai Zhan- the warriors peak/ Liu Qingge
8. Qian Cao- Healers/ Mu Qingfang
9. Zui Xian - spiritual wine and food/Ru Qingchun
10. Ling You peak- beast tamers. / Li Qingtian
11. Chuang Zao peak - Artifact peak/ Wen Qingming
12.  Zhi Ji peak - tailsman and devination/ Yan Qingyi

Also I took the liberty of creating two female peak lords just because I can lol (who the hell wants to be on a mountain full of just guys? Certainly not SJ What weirdos)

Oh and almost all of them are introverts minus Yue Qingyuan, Wei Qingwei, Qi Qingqi and Ru Qingchun XD

Oh right one more thing, in case you didn't catch on, Yan Qingyi is actually the mountain's resident witch who is hiding behind divination as an excuse for her powers but she is so good at what she does that nobody asks too many questions.

Enjoy!

Chapter 2

Summary:

Shen Jiu confess to some concerning things, the disciples are having major crisis over it.

Liu Qingge spit his drink. Multiple people choked on their own spit. Ru Qingchun had wine leaking from his lips and going down his throat.

 

“I'm sorry I think I might be too drunk, I think I misheard just now…” 

 

“Me too, me too.. Shixiong pinch me” 

 

Shen Qingqiu seemed to have no cares in the world nor for the horrifying crime he had just confessed to in a rather ordinary game.

 

He curiously inspected one of the snacks Ru Qingchun had brought in from all angles first before poking the tip of his tongue to give it an experimental lick. It seemed that it was deemed to his liking as His eyes lit up with wonder. He hurriedly popped it in his mouth and chewed slowly as the piece of tanghulu filled his cheeks adorably. They found it extremely hard to judge him when he looked like that.

 

Gu Qingbai found himself blushing furiously as Shen Qingqiu went as far as to lick his own fingers from the residue sugar, he tried to remove his eyes but couldn't really manage it. It was the first time he had seen this particular Shixiong being this carefree. Whenever they met, no matter how briefly, the other had Always walked as if he had the weight of the entire mountain lying on his shoulders. His eyes were shadowed with unspoken darkness. Haunted with horrors and well hidden fears.

 

Perhaps that's why he had the calmest reaction to that outrageous statement. Perhaps this was his chance to listen to his Shixiong's burdens. Truly listen. Fate had placed them here today, a group of completely different people who cultivated on different paths together, who worked hard to blossom and stand out amidst a field with the finest harvest. Who had finally reached the same point on their paths and are likely to continue coexisting way beyond their Ascensions.

 

What else should he do if not sit and listen?

 

And so he grabbed the remaining pieces of Tanghulu remaining on his plate and passed them over to the delighted Shen Qingqiu.

 

His Shixiong met his gaze a little dazed as if he were trying to remember who he was,  Gu Qingbai noted in amusement how his face was flushed red from alcohol but he surprisingly enough still thanked him politely for his share. 

Wei Qingwei, unable to handle the suspense, sat up straight from his position of casually half laying on the ground to face Shen Qingqiu cutting their peaceful moment.

 

“Shen Shixiong! You cannot just say that and expect us not to ask questions..!” he stated

 

The other shrugged again unbothered. He bit down another piece and looked at its other half as if it was much more important than their current discussion. “Sure~, I warn you though, it'snot pretty..” 

 

Having gotten the person's approval, The others immediately dived in with questions of their own. Liu Qingge was dreadingly paying great attention to the other's answers, if it turned out the other had committed such a great crime unprovoked for some stupid reason then he would not hesitate to inform their Masters of the fact. Assuming they don't already know of course, and they most likely know now that he's thinking about it.

 

If he was still made a succeeding disciple despite that it's either that they researched and dealt privately with the matter or… Shen Qingqiu had hidden himself really well with the help of someone powerful. He swallowed uncomfortably knowing both could be possible explanations.

 

So Which one was it? He desperately hoped it wasn't the latter. No matter his personal disputes with Shen Qingqiu… it would still hurt to see one of their own fall so low when they were so close to achieving new heights together.

“Wait a second.. go back! What happened?” 

 

He started giggling again as if he was about to say a joke that only he understood “It went in flames” 

 

The statement had Startled a shocked laugh out of Shang Qinghua. Liu Qingge was not sure how they found any part of this funny. He made eye contact with the rest of the room to mercifully find out they were as confused as he was. Except for Yan Qingyi who was just shaking her head at them, not unlike a disappointed mother.

 

“Shen Qingqiu, it's not the time for jokes! Did you really kill your betrothed's brother??” 

 

“Yep haha Ran The the sword right through the fuckers chest.”

 

“But… why? What happened?”

 

“Sick bastard, got too greedy.. Wanted us both… together. Like some sort’a fucked up pretty doll collection for his enjoyment.” 

 

“Oh…” that was the only thing Liu Qingge could say to that. Gu Qingbai, Wen Qingming and Mu Qingfang seemed to have lost two more shades of color as something terrible dawned on their expressions. Liu Qingge wished they could explain it clearly to him because he wasn't coming up with any good conclusions.

 

“That's what'ya get for… for treating people like objects.. a stab to the heart cuz…cuz you don't deserve one!” he said as he toasted to himself with the cup of juice and then chugged it.

 

Normally, they would've started laughing over the funny actions of their drunk martial sibling but they currently found it difficult to find amusement in the situation, because who the fuck was “he”?? Who was the piece of Scum that pretended to be formidable enough to dare abuse their Shen Shixiong?? Someone in this world was actually confident enough to Touch Shen Qingqiu!? 

 

They felt something was strongly off about this… because who on earth would dare hurt Shen Qingqiu with Yue Qingyuan present?! And What about his family!? Or was it perhaps a sudden, in the moment type of attack? 

 

Qi Qingqi could picture it in her mind… even though she'd never admit it her Shen Shixiong was very beautiful with exotic eyes. It wasn't far-fetched for some other noble to take interest in him, especially when they were always interacting in close proximity… Maybe the noble lost his control one day or was particularly drunk… he would go to his sister's betrothed's bedroom while he was visiting and try to do something very heinous to the other boy.

 

But of course her Shixiong wasn't a pushover; he would defend himself, because of course he would… and stab him in self defense. Yes… Qi Qingqi could indeed imagine the course of events. Her heart dropped just thinking about it… the noble wouldn't have had the time to do anything else to Shen Qingqiu… right? There is no way his family would stand it otherwise. 

 

Except… there was one more detail missing

 

“Wait… he wanted you both that way? You and who else??” 

 

Could have been some other friend? Sibling? A servant?? Together in this situation with him? Perhaps the noble had come for them first and Shen Qingqiu happened to be there to defend them and that's how he ended up stabbing the noble?

 

Unfortunately what Shen Qingqiu said next was beyond even their wildest expectations 

 

Playing with the hem of his long sleeves he answered without looking up “Just y'know… Me N’ his sister”

 

“W..what..?”

 

“His sister!?? The girl… Your Fiancée??” 

 

Shen Qingqiu hummed as he nodded with pursed lips as if just remembering he should not have said that. Yeah… he probably shouldn't have said that.

Looking up, Shen Qingqiu found himself cracking a small smile at Wei Qingwei's utterly serious expression. His Shidi was always laid back whenever they met.. Shen Jiu had secretly found it oddly comforting to be in his presence most times than not. Stoic or angry looking men often put him on edge and irritated him in turn. 

 

It was the first time he had seen Wei Qingwei being serious about anything. He found it oddly funny as if the expression didn't belong there on his face.

 

He raised his finger to tap his Shidi's nose “boop” he said in the midst of silence. Wei Shidi looked stunned for a moment before his expression settled back into his usual laid back smile. 

 

Wow, it really worked! He must have the power to make everyone smile using his finger.

 

“Shen Shixiong, why did you boop me?” 

 

What a stupid question. Shen Jiu ignored him as he crawled across the room…. Hmmm, who should he try it on next?

 

glimpsing sight of gray robes Shen Jiu immediately headed over to sit in front of his most unpleasant Shidi. The other regarded him with frowned eyebrows and crossed arms “What?...” 

 

Yep. He definitely needed his help. 

 

Shen Jiu did his best to focus as he raised his finger to point it… Ah right there, “Boop” he said as he tapped the center of his forehead. Ah! It truly worked! His Shidi's frown was instantly gone. However not a second later, a single eyebrow was raised at him. Shen Jiu burst into unstoppable laughter, Liu Shidi was so silly! He takes everything seriously 

 

He felt lightheaded as his head became too heavy for him, and suddenly he was falling back… Ah! Thankfully Liu Shidi caught him instead. He swung his head into the opposite direction to fall straight into his Shidi's Shoulder. His very nice, very broad shoulder.

 

The fabric was soft and cool on his cheek. Naturally, he started rubbing his face on it.

“Shen Qingqiu.. Y..you..!” Liu Qingge felt like his entire body was heating up at Shen Qingqiu casually rubbing his face against his shoulder and neck. The other man had the audacity to look up at him from the corner of his eyes, giving him the biggest, most innocent eyes in existence. His breath was sickeningly sweet from the wine and tanghulu. He might understand now how the other became so popular at pleasure houses

He vaguely heard multiple voices Cooing at them, he scowled as he raised his hand to remove Shen Qingqiu off of his person. but found his hand stuck mid air instead... The longer he looked at Shen Qingqiu the more his will weakened. And after just hearing everything the other had said, Liu Qingge found it unnecessarily harsh. 

 

Feeling the weight and warmth of the person curled up on him Liu Qingge did the only logical thing and put his hand on Shen Qingqiu’s head instead. His movements clumsy but gentle as he stroked his soft hair until the other settled dazed on his shoulder.

 

Murderous rage aside, He felt like Shen Shixiong wasn't actually too bad to have around. Like this he was even… sweet. In a way,

 

Was it truly just the alcohol's effect or was this the man's true personality? If it was, Why hide behind a thorny personality in the first place? Has anyone else tried to hurt his Shen Qingqiu other than that scum?

 

Whomever did this deserved a thousand deaths and it still wouldn't be enough punishment.

 

Unable to bite his tongue, Liu Qingge had to know right now whether he had missed something else in his haste to judge. Something important. The vulnerability in Shen Qingqiu’s figure had driven out something very protective from outside of Liu Qingge's chest. It was only normal considering the other was his Shixiong. 

“Had he done anything.. to you?” 

 

“Liu Shidi! You cannot ask such thi_” Mu Qingfang scolded only to be interrupted 

 

Shen Qingqiu snorted bitterly “What had he not done to me? He…” getting choked up for words Shen Qingqiu took someone's filled cup and dawned it feeling his mood immediately improving 

 

Liu Qingge didn't even have the heart to yell at him for stealing his drink twice now. Too preoccupied with pushing down the nausea and the Qi deviation he felt creeping at the edges spurned by the other's shocking confessions. The few glimpses he was shown threatened to break whatever understanding he'd ever had about Shen Qingqiu.

 

“aghhh no. I don't wanna talk about him. Never ever...ever” 

“Alright Shixiong, but what about your parents? How come they did nothing while all of this was secretly happening?” 

 

Because there was no way any of this happened between two noble families and nobody heard anything about it. Such an outrageous story would travel all around the three realms. It was no surprise they tried their best to bury it to the point that they even hid the real reason for the nobleman's death.

 

It could be literally any big family out there. However, a noble had assaulted and dishonored another noble family's young master… not to mention his sister's betrothed. it was utterly suspicious how a dispute of this magnitude could've been hidden so well. Something was extremely off about this whole situation. And how did Shen Qingqiu even end up coming to Cang Qiong to cultivate? Was he sent away for a change of scenery? A new beginning perhaps?

 

The calm Shen Qingqiu had immediately pushed himself away from Liu Qingge to scowl at them with deep rooted hatred in his eyes “don't even mention those fuckers in my presence!!” most had their jaws on the ground from the sudden mood change.

 

Liu Qingge secretly missed the weight that was pressed against him.

“If I ever see them I swear… they better be already dead! It's all their fault!” 

“Shixiong please calm down, it's dangerous for you to Qi deviate right now__” Mu Qingfang tried to calm him down by passing him some Qi

 

“They just… abandoned me… sold me.. Who the fuck does that!???” 

 

“They… sold you to that noble family?” Qi Qingqi asked now very confused 

 

“They might as well have.” he huffed angrily, not willing to hear a word about it. He crossed his arms stubbornly refusing to look at them.

An idea was roughly being shaped into their heads. 

 

Oh so that was it. For some reason perhaps money, prestige or something else… Shen Qingqiu’s family had sacrificed their youngest son to a miserable marriage. And they had most likely known of that family's dubious character beforehand and still “sold him”. Could Shen Qingqiu possibly be a side Concubine's son?

 

But if he was that unfavored, how on earth did he land himself a marriage to a noble girl whose family had such wealth? 

 

“Hold up… I'm getting very confused here. How did you get engaged to that girl in the first place?” Wei Qingwei asked, utterly invested into this wild goose chase.

 

Shen Qingqiu rolled his eyes but he seemed to have shifted moods again because now he was just pouting. 

 

“Because that fucker wanted a good reason t’keep me around.” 

 

“Oh my god!!”

 

“He didn't…! There is no way!” 

 

“Holy shit Shixiong… that's insane.”

“He took you for his sister on purpose!?? And nobody did anything about this!??” 

 

Shen Qingqiu seemed to have lit up at that, he immediately woke up to face Liu Qingge heatedly “Right!?? I thought it was just me!... this bastard gets to do whatever and I'm just supposed ta take it quietly!? And noone was saying anything about it either?? Cuz he's some important piece'a shit? The fuck?” 

 

“Ah Shen Shixiong, you've suffered!... *hic* I'm so soooo sorry!” 

 

Shang Qinghua suddenly started tearing up as he apologized to him, Shen Jiu side eyed him “Ah… thank you?” For some reason that made Shang Qinghua cry even harder.

 

“Shixiong, Here, a drink.” Liu Qingge offered him his cup freely given this time, and as expected Shen Jiu immediately headed back his way and snatched it happily.

 

It was the perfect moment for Liu Qingge's hand to sneak into his hair again, making the other sigh in appreciation as he closed his eyes and leaned closer to rest on his Shidi. This time no one said anything. still processing the wild story they had just heard. Which was the perfect time for Shen Jiu to close his eyes and rest for just a few moments… 

 

He was unaware of the storm he had just created.

 

Notes:

Heya!

Here's another chapter! I hope I did it justice... it's kinda exhausting trying to involve 11 people at once lol

In the next chapter will get the other 3 disciples reaction to all of this.

Btw, they are ALL drunk at this point in case it isn't clear XD they just didn't drink an entire jug so they're better at hiding it. But they're definitely drunk. Don't you just love how they're having two completely different conversations without realizing it hahahaha

Tell me what you guys think! I know for sure YQY isn't going to like it one bit XD

🍀🧡

Chapter 3

Summary:

More secrets are revealed. Everyone discovers how Shen Jiu had been working in the shadows protecting them.

Notes:

Warning/ Non con attempt is mentioned but it doesn't go anywhere, and nothing explicit is mentioned. Also mention of harassment.

It took a while for Shen Jiu to settle down from the spur of energy. toppling down from his high into a puddle of loose limbs with His head resting snuggly atop Liu Qingge's lap. green eyes unblinkingly staring at nothing as if somewhere far away out of reach. Liu Qingge played with his silky locks feeling otherwise useless for the problem at hand. His Martial siblings, sitting in a closed circle -too close to each other to be proper- had been forcefully made to sober up instead of lazing around enjoying the light after-effect of the wine. 

 

Frankly, Not a hard thing to achieve after hearing Shen Qingqiu’s sobering confessions. With more urgent issues to discuss than they thought possible at such a late hour they were now drinking water looking ten shades wrong.

 

“Ru Shidi… couldn't you have gone through your prank at a more reasonable hour,” Shang Qinghua complained, nursing his headache. “you know, during the daylight when we were all sitting in awkward silence?..”

 

Ru Qingchun -forcefully made sober by Mu Qingfang- had lost his carefree demeanor; he now seemed much more stern with his eyebrows pulled in a frown . He looked quite unapproachable like this, as if someone had switched his entire personality. Or Qi Qingqi supposed it was the killer hangover effect.

 

“Don't ask me, Ask Qi Shijie. it was her idea after all.” 

 

Eight different heads collectively shifted up to look at her with mixed reactions most of which were questioning and shock.

Having been thrown to the wolves, Qi Qingqi sent her Shidi a venomous glare.

 

“I'm never including you in anything ever again Ru-Shidi.” 

 

“seeing how we almost killed Shen Shixiong, I say thank the gods” he retorted, last two words loudly pronounced to the displeasure of the rest 

 

Mu Qingfang sighed “once again, spiritual wine is not fatal to Shen-shixiong ”

 

“oh Yeah?.. I'd pay you twenty spiritual stones for you to say that to his face come morning but I'm afraid we'd all be dead by then.”

 

“Don't be overly dramatic, Shidi. Shen Qingqiu cannot overpower us all no matter how mad he will be.” Qi Qingqi took out her hair crown which had been contributing to her headache, at the back of her head someone screeched at her inappropriate state, Another voice screeched back that these ruffled idiots won't know the difference even if she grew a pair right this instance.

 

“It's Yue Shixiong that you should be wary of once Shen Shixiong hangs himself come morning.” 

 

Multiple faces paled further at the implication, all of them miraculously sharing the same vision of Their Da Shixiong coming back from his private, long six months mission with the sect leader doing gods knew what.. utterly exhausted and long overdue for some rest only to discover Shen Qingqiu’s cooling corpse hanged at the entrance of their lavish residence not even a night after their confinement together.

 

“We've been exaggerating.. Yue Shixiong's always been kind. I'm sure He'd be reasonable.” 

 

Shang Qinghua snorted “well… think again.”

 

“What is that supposed to mean?” Liu Qingge scowled at him, but shockingly Shang Qinghua didn't cower in front of his tone.

“What I mean.. is that you haven't seen him when he first joined the sect.”

 

That caught the rest's attention 

 

“No Shang Shidi's right, I remember that too… always found it a little odd” Wei Qingwei added

 

It was one of his earlier memories since he was one of the oldest to join. Other than him there was also Shang Qinghua, Wen Qingming, Mu Qingfang and Yue Qingyuan. And all of them tended to mind their own business so there wasn't much gossip back then. Things only spiced up after their numbers filled out and the peak lords started choosing their succeeding disciples which produced a lot of excitement.

 

“Yeah… Yue Shixiong was on a warpath. He was overly ambitious and fierce at the time.” 

 

What? Their same Shixiong who was as gentle and cool as a morning breeze? Qi Qingqi found it hard to imagine the words ‘ambitious’ and ‘fierce’ associated with Yue Qingyuan. 

 

“I heard he was the fastest disciple to ever be promoted into an inner disciple, is that true Shixiong?” asked Gu Qingbai, slightly hesitant. 

 

Not a lot of gossip found its way into Ku Xing peak. Half of it due to the strict rules they abide by that forbids frivolous talk that serves no real purpose. But in recent years Gu Qingbai has been met with a new challenge… Being the succeeding Disciple required a certain level of socializing especially for meetings and group missions. Being too uninformed could cause him issues but that puts him in a difficult position as it overlaps with his own morals. And so, he had tried balancing the two by listening but never speaking unless it's absolutely necessary.

 

But in such a setting where they shared warmth and secrets long after midnight.. it felt harmless to ask.

 

“It is. hard to miss someone who was promoted into an inner disciple only two years after they've joined.” 

 

Qi Qingqi’s eyes immediately widened with Shock “are you serious?” 

 

Two years was barely enough time to Master basic breathing techniques. What on earth could he have achieved within two years to catch the sect leader's eyes!?

 

“How Outstanding! As expected of our future Zhangmen-Shixiong.” Ru Qingchun smugly nodded and honestly no one could blame him. Even Gu Qingbai seemed impressed.

 

“But then there was that odd period of time where he was completely… ahh unmotivated.” Wen Qingming added non judgmentally. At that point the majority of them had joined but still weren't very familiar with Yue Qingyuan nor sect politics. The only reason Wen Qingming noticed Yue Qingyuan at the time was because some of her projects needed direct approval and support from Qiong Ding. 

 

Wen Qingming had the strange ability to never create what she intended to create. For example if she started a simple Qi monitoring stone it somehow ends as an organ restoration artifact. Yes, she made one Mu Qingfang absolutely ecstatic but she was still one Qi monitor stone short.

 

As a prized succeeding disciple to the first peak, Yue Qingyuan had no reason to be that accommodating and kind when she had only been an ordinary disciple with random surprise projects that needed supervision at all times, but he was. Yue Qingyuan was a memorable character to a lot of people in the sect based on what she heard.

 

“Unmotivated is an understatement. He seemed a hair away from refusing to cultivate all together. a rumour even stated he ignored the summons of his Master multiple times.”

 

“I didn't think Yue Shixiong could've been that rebellious as a youngster”

 

“Perhaps he was burnt out. It happens to all of us” Wen Qingming commented a bit defensively despite her best effort. 

 

Wei Qingwei narrowed his eyes as he carefully inspected the craftsmanship of Qi Qingqi’s hair crown that he had snatched from the ground.

 

“No, it was more than that. He completely avoided everyone and For a time he even stuck to wearing White…” he answered, tracing the elegant patterns under his fingertips.

 

“He was in mourning.” 

 

Everyone collectively turned to Yan Qingyi in various states of surprise. A bout of silence and then…

 

“I think Shimei's right.” Wei Qingwei said with a grimace. He really didn't wish any ill fortune upon his kind Yue Shixiong but all signs led to that conclusion.

 

Slowly they started recalling the various rumors from that period, comprehension slowly dawning on them that Yue Qingyuan might have lost someone important when they were none the wiser And mourned secretly all by himself.

 

“That's… do we know who he lost? I mean… he must've told someone .” Qi Qingqi looked at them closely one by one hoping one of them would know.. unfortunately, it seemed as if Yue Qingyuan was more distant and secretive than they thought.

 

For the first time ever they realized they knew little to nothing about their Yue Shixiong. perhaps even less than they knew about Shen Qingqiu. They wondered what else they might have been ignorant about.

 

“You're telling me we have known each other for years but not one of us held a single conversation with Yue Shixiong that wasn't Sect business related..?” 

 

They looked awkwardly at each other 

 

“I mean… to be fair Qi Shimei, we don't seem to know alot about Shen Shixiong either... nor each other, in general.” 

 

The walls were certainly an interesting shade…

 

“But Yue Shixiong is so popular..! How can that be??” 

 

Alright, so perhaps their Masters had a valid point for forcing them to socialize outside of it being a tradition. They all secretly admitted to themselves. Or perhaps that was the reason it was a tradition in the first place. Liu Qingge absentmindedly rearranged some loose strands that covered Shen Qingqiu’s eyes 

 

“That's cuz’ he's verrry sneaky… you can't get a straight answer outta him even with the threat of dismemberment if he doesn't wanna answer_” 

 

They all collectively turned to the drunk Shen Jiu with surprise and interest, Liu Qingge thought he was asleep until the other spoke.

 

“That's oddly specific Shi_” 

 

“_n’ they taught him diplomacy on top, as if that wasn't enough… fuck'n great! You can now only dream of getting a straight answer.”

 

They had no idea what to say to that, Shen Jiu seemed to take that as encouragement to continue his rant “You ask him a simple damn question like ‘Are you cold?’ And He'll say ‘do you need a blanket?’ ….” he mimicked Yue Qingyuan’s tone sarcastically “no. I don' want a blanket you stupid, big oaf..!” He kicked his feet against the ground in frustration.

 

Liu Qingge swallowed the harsh retort on the tip of his tongue for the first time To keep the peace He huffed instead in annoyance “and what's so bad about that? isn't it good that he's being considerate by offering?”

 

Shen Jiu raised his head and threw him a judging glare as if he was the dumbest creature alive without bothering to move from his comfy spot. “That's what he would like you to think. He isn't being considerate. He's being a self sacrificing fool who'd rather give you his only blanket and freeze to death if it meant it'd please you.” seeing Liu Qingge's stunned expression Shen Jiu seemed appeased enough to look away “someone saw that and thought ‘Yeah… excellent. Let's cultivate those self-sacrificing tendencies to the brim and then let's hand over the entire sect. That'll surely go well’.”

 

“Hey..” Qi Qingqi protested weakly at the disrespect casually thrown at their entire chain of Command. However, she couldn't find anything useful to say in protest.

 

“That makes... sooo much sense actually,” Wen Qingming said to herself.

 

It was baffling to think that Yue Qingyuan’s kind nature was rooted deep in self sacrifice. but thinking about some of his past actions it made a lot of sense.

 

Wei Qingwei had his eyes wide open “I cannot believe it… Shen Shixiong's right!” 

 

He hadn't thought that Shen Qingqiu was paying attention but it seemed as if he was the one most perceptive between them in order to notice Yue Qingyuan’s nature without even having to hold a conversation with him. He looked at the others to see Realization being shared between them.

 

Wei Qingwei started to feel the bubble of excitement rising in his chest as he got closer to Shen Qingqiu’s lounging spot.

 

“Hey..! Shen-Shixiong… What about me??” he pointed at himself in anticipation 

 

Their eldest Shixiong had to focus on Wei Qingwei's face for a couple of minutes as if to remember who he was again, the pinched expression incredibly endearing to look at.

 

The head disciples all inched closer in anticipation. Hangover completely forgotten in front of this exciting development

 

“oh… you're The other big oaf. You try to act nice till you realize the other person has become completely dependent on you and that they're demanding too much of your time and effort so you hide on your peak pretending to be extremely busy until the person either forgets about you or moves on to the next person they find.” 

 

Multiple heads turned to stare at the red faced Wei Qingwei who uncharacteristically stuttered, completely taken back. Shen Jiu only swung his bent legs from side to side uncaringly. 

 

“Shen Shixiong,... I don't do it on purpose I swear..!” he settled on admitting.

 

“Oh I know…” Wei Qingwei had to release a sigh of relief. “_ its cuz weaker personalities are naturally attracted to you because you look like you have your shit together most of the time.” Wei Qingwei was stunned silent for a moment not knowing how to respond, Shen Jiu continued “nd’ cuz’ you have very nice shoulders.” 

Mu Qingfang had to cough to hide his snicker but failed miserably to do so. The now blood red Wei Qingwei immediately narrowed his eyes at him as he developed a vengeful glint in his eyes. He immediately inched closer to shake Shen Jiu's arm drawing his attention 

 

“Shen Shixiong..! And how about him?.. what do you think of Mu Shidi?” 

 

“Wei Qingwei..!” Mu Qingfang complained half heartedly even though he couldn't hide the curiosity in his tone.

 

He also wanted to see what Shen Shixiong secretly thought of him… this was a rare opportunity, for no matter how warm and friendly Mu Qingfang acted in the past he could never truly get to have Shen Qingqiu open up to him.

 

Would he perceive him as helpful like most of the mountain did as a medical genius? Or would he secretly think him annoying and obnoxious for trying too hard? Would he hate him for being too strict with his instructions?

 

Mu Qingfang really wanted to know now…!

 

Everyone else was anticipating his answer as well, in a single second Everyone successfully became as quiet as mice.

 

This time Shen Jiu didn't even have to think too long, immediately recognizing Mu Qingfang unlike Wei Qingwei. Mu Qingfang tried to take it positively before the other shook his head and sighed.

 

“I wouldn't want to be him.” He said, baffling the healer.

 

“Why do you say that, Shixiong?” The healer asked curiously

 

“He has to touch sooo many creeps everyday.” 

 

The joyous atmosphere immediately disappeared as the rest looked wide eyed at them both 

 

“What..?” Liu Qingge snapped looking at Shen Jiu questioningly, Wei Qingwei doing the same, his gaze directed at the Startled Mu Qingfang. Wei Qingwei noted the lack of surprise in his expression

 

“Shen Qingqiu, explain.” Qi Qingqi uttered blankly as she observed Mu Qingfang's reaction closely.

Unaware or rather uncaring for the tension in the air, Shen Jiu continued “yep… he's trying to dress more plainly to look older than he is because some creeps keep on harassing him to administer Dual cultivation as treatment.”

 

“What!??” Liu Qingge repeated looking much angrier, he seemed as if he would have jumped to go beat up everyone on the mountain if not for the emperor lounging on his lap unbothered by his sudden burst. In a way Mu Qingfang was thankful 

 

Even Wei Qingwei was pissed off “Mu Shidi, is that true?!” he had noticed his Martial brother's style getting exceedingly down to earth as of late but he had thought it was for practicality's sake

 

“That is… , well..” Mu Qingfang stuttered, now it was his turn to be embarrassed. “It's not like I'm obligated to accept their…advances.” 

 

“Those disgusting Scum..! Mu Qingfang, why hadn't you said anything before? And for how long has this been going on?” Qi Qingqi asked, half concerned, half wanting to join Liu Qingge in strangling every man on the mountain.

 

She couldn't believe they were harassing their only competent healer. Not Even people as kind as Mu Qingfang seemed to get away from the clutches of these bastards. How come she was only hearing about this now? Observing everyone's reaction it seemed he told no one of this. Why hadn't he trusted any of them to solve this issue for him??

 

If not for Shen Qingqiu’s sharp observation would he have said anything at all..?

 

“It truly isn't a big issue… they are merely bothersome to deal with. Besides, recently It has become rare.” He sheepishly rubbed the back of his head not meeting any of their eyes “perhaps the plain appearance worked.” 

 

“Not really, it's because I had them flogged and expelled” Shen Jiu admitted casually 

 

The healer's jaw dropped. Shen Jiu found it a little funny… his Shidi was nice. Too nice. As the sect's second in command he felt like it was his duty to take care of such issues. And Those bastards weren't only harassing him…

 

“W..what..? Shixiong Why..?” Mu Qingfang looked a little disturbed. Were their actions making him uncomfortable? Sure. But he was able to confront them himself and put up boundaries… even if they didn't respect them for long they still didn't harm him. The point was they were harmless… why would they be flogged and expelled for some words?

 

As if hearing his inner voice, Shen Jiu rolled his eyes

“They were stalking you. They were gonna drug and ambush you during that minor flower harvesting mission. The only reason they didn't dare force you on the mountain was because too many eyes were on you and not cuz they respect you” 

 

He heard a couple people choking in the background, Mu Qingfang himself seemed shocked by the news until he seemed to remember something.. “Was that why you hadn't slept the entire mission..?”

 

Shen Qingqiu had been accompanying them on the mission, he made Mu Qingfang slightly agitated throughout the journey because he refused to rest, eat or drink anything that wasn't his. He Barely even sat down.

 

Mu Qingfang had thought that he was acting annoyed for being forced to accompany them… he didn't pay him any mind back then, in turn feeling upset for having to deal with his temper on a rather nice outing. 

 

But now that he was recalling it… was it possible that Shen Qingqiu wasn't annoyed with him per say but instead was acting defensive?

 

He remembered that three of his senior Martial brothers were accompanying them as well. And while Mu Qingfang had no previous interactions with them they had never shown him any hostility. Nor… admiration. He does recall the brief uncomfortable feeling he got from one of them when they got too close and patted his shoulder. But that was it. The mission went fairly normally and they were back safely before they knew it.

 

“And how did you know this information, Shen Shixiong?”

 

“One of your junior martial sisters heard them speaking before the mission. She Came to me, and I requested to accompany you.”

 

“And why did his Shimei come to you of all people..?” Qi Qingqi asked with her eyes narrowed at him, voicing the question of everyone in the room.

 

“Cuz we're friends. And she was scared she wouldn't be believed or worse… you'd confront them, snitch on her and she becomes their target.” 

 

While the others were digesting that, Li Qingtian thought it was extremely reasonable. If their roles were reversed he wouldn't want to be involved either. Human nature was hard to predict.. Perhaps Mu Qingfang would not have meant to put her in danger but he could have done it accidentally. She cannot guarantee her own safety but would also feel guilty if anything did happen to him… in such a difficult situation it made sense she'd seek the help of someone stronger, Someone more capable.

 

And Shen Shixiong was the most capable person he knew. Yes, he was scary. But scary was extremely useful when fighting other scary things. Li Qingtian would definitely do the same if he had a close relationship with Shen Shixiong. He couldn't really understand the others' shock… it was like they were willfully blind.

 

“And what happened on the mission?” Liu Qingge asked, tone serious. To know that two of his martial brothers were possibly in danger while he wasn't there made his blood boil.

 

What good was he for the sect's defense if he was absent when they needed him?

 

Not caring for his pillow's emotional state, Shen Jiu snickered “Nothing. They were too terrified of my presence to try anything. When we reached the sect I called a few hallmasters to serve as witnesses… then I broke their limbs, extracted all the drugged food, flower pollen and pills they were carrying on themselves and then sent them to Qiong Ding's disciplinary hall with the request to banish them.” 

 

Utterly fascinated by the turn of events they were unaware of, Qi Qingqi had to ask “and? Were they really banished..?” 

 

“yep. They were flogged by the disciplinary whip and kicked out for plotting evil against one's sect siblings.”

 

Ah… Qi Qingqi immediately recalled where she heard a similar thing. It was two years ago. It had made a ruckus about how a group of disciples were immediately expelled after they displeased Shen Qingqiu during a group mission. Naturally, most came to the conclusion that the poor group of disciples were framed by him.

 

But now… Qi Qingqi felt sick to her stomach… she had actually defended those animals..! Oh gods… they better have died by now

 

“So that's where the rumors came from…damn…” Ru Qingchun whispered to himself, having remembered the same thing.

 

“I knew it didn't make sense for the sect leader to be so biased! So that's what actually happened…” Wei Qingwei relaxed back, seeing how nothing bad ended up happening. 

 

Multiple people also relaxed their tense muscles 

 

Wen Qingming couldn't help but be impressed "Mu Shixiong was very lucky. Things could've turned ugly if Shen-shixiong hadn't been paying attention." 

 

Mu Qingfang shivered at her words. Hating the image in his mind. He had naively thought it wouldn't cause him any problems but it turns out he had dodged a disaster thanks to his senior Martial brother. He owed a life debt to Shen Qingqiu.

 

“Cuz’ of that, Zhou Shishu was furious. He personally came to me to investigate and after confirming everything I gave him a full list of everyone who had been harassing Qian Cao's healers over the years… heard he went on a warpath.”

 

No wonder…

 

It was no wonder that nobody had been bothering him for two years..! 

 

Turns out something like this actually happened while he was none the wiser. 

 

He was cut off by Liu Qingge's annoyed huff as he focused on the one in his lap..

 

“How come you'd do all of that for him but when it comes to me you'd try to stab me the moment my back is turned?” He said accusingly

 

Liu Qingge was not feeling upset. He was not. It merely wasn't fair. Or honorable. 

Because why does Mu Qingfang get the kind, protective treatment and he gets a sneak attack?? They don't even talk that often! Liu Qingge sees him way more times than Mu Qingfang does..!

 

He didn't care when Shen Qingqiu scowled at him and then sat straight abandoning Liu Qingge's lap. He didn't. The others didn't know how to react either…

 

On one hand… their Shixiong turned out to be a lot different than they thought, they discovered he might've been a perfect fit for his position and that they had judged him too harshly, but on the other… he had still attacked Liu Qingge unprovoked. 

 

“That's not it… Liu Shidi you misunderstood.” A hesitant voice sounded drawing 

 

“What do you Mean Shang Shixiong?” 

 

Shang Qinghua sighed tiredly “there was an evil spirit behind you. If Shen Shixiong hadn't killed it when he did, it could've seriously injured you.”

 

Liu Qingge opened his mouth to reply but found his mouth too dry… it had seemed strange to him. But the anger won out in the end and he didn't question the series of events further. Perhaps he should have.

 

“You… why didn't you say something back then?!” 

 

“I wanted to. but don't you know how prideful Shen Shixiong is? You made him really angry, you know? So He told me to keep quiet” 

 

“Oh…”

 

“So… everything was a misunderstanding?” Ru Qingchun clarified but nobody answered him too preoccupied with the show

 

Liu Qingge stared dumbly back at the drunk, pouting Shen Qingqiu who had turned his back on him. Childishly refusing to face him.

 

Liu Qingge felt extremely regretful for being such an idiot and making Shen Jiu angry again when they had been getting along so well… turns out his Shixiong hadn't tried to kill him but saved him instead.

 

He had protected much more than he did Mu Qingfang .

 

“Shen Shixiong… I wronged you! I'm sorry!” 

 

Shen Qingqiu tsked in annoyance as he linked his arms together in a stubborn manner. 

 

Liu Qingge dragged himself closer to him, not getting disheartened. He can also be quite stubborn when he wants to.. “Shen Shixiong I swear not to wrong you again, I'll try not to misunderstand you either… Please give me a chance to make it up to you.”

 

Frustration crawled up his spine as grabbed a random pillow from the ground and turned to face his idiotic Shidi…

 

He took a breath, collected his energy, and started hitting Liu Qingge with the pillow using all his strength. 

 

Just like he wanted to do this whole time.

 

Liu Qingge didn't even resist, slightly flinching with every hit but kept still letting the other express his anger.

 

At one point Shen Jiu felt the pillow was inadequate so he threw it away and grabbed his Shidi's muscled arm instead, 

 

And sank his teeth deep into the muscle. 

 

He could hear his shidi giving a brief pained groan at the unexpected assault, but surprisingly didn't stop him… Shen Jiu only let go when he tasted blood on his tongue. Finally showing mercy. 

 

It was just that the attack took too Much energy out of him and so he fell into Liu Qingge's arms once again. The other held him gently even with one bleeding arm still aching. He even patted his hair in reassurance as they settled in a truce.

 

Liu Qingge felt pleased he was able to fix the situation and have Shen Jiu back on his lap. Something about the untouchable man casually trusting him with his comfort greatly satisfied Liu Qingge's ego.

 

Mu Qingfang came closer to them cutting Liu Qingge's thoughts, he watched curiously as Mu Qingfang leaned down to put his arms around Shen Qingqiu’s figure in a loose hug

 

“Thank you, Shixiong.” 

 

Just these words held alot of meaning… Shen Jiu yawned as he hugged him back, patting the other's back like how his JieJie does it for him when he needs the comfort.

 

He figured Mu Qingfang needed reassurance after hearing Such a disturbing thing. It was why Shen Jiu never brought it up before… he knew firsthand how scary such a situation can be. The kind healer did not deserve to have his good deeds repaid in such a disgusting way. All he did was help. But some fuckers decided to latch into that goodness and destroy it. 

 

As long as he is still present, nobody is going to harm the members of this sect.

 

“Its’ okay Mu Shidi… you can wear whatever you want. I'll keep you safe.” 

 

His eyes found each person in the room staring at him with complicated expressions… he didn't mind them “I'll keep all of you safe too.” he promised. 

He smiled to himself as his eyes slowly dropped “JieJie always says that I'll be a powerful lord” his eyes closing at the end as he fell asleep. 

 

..

 

“JieJie!???.... Shen Qingqiu, you have a sister!??” 

Notes:

Hii!!
I enjoyed this chapter. At first I was going to focus on the brothel thing but my hands started to write on their own and I ended up with Mu Qingfang appreciation chapter. Because he's criminally underrated but Shen Jiu does see his efforts!

This came to me in the hospital where I saw a grown ass man catcalling one of the nurses. IN THE HOSPITAL. I was like... bro ? They have sooo many ways to kill you. Why would you do this here?? And then a young doctor casually passed by and one of the women who was like 50+ said something lame like "damn... he can come check me up anytime"

And I REALIZED. Poor fucking Healthcare workers. I hope they have sturdy bodyguards and a nice, hefty paycheck.

Anyways, I was inspired to make this chapter about Our resident healer. Also, I'm convinced that in Canon he ended up growing a mustache because nobody took him seriously with his baby face lol

Li Qingtian is 100% not feeling jelly of that one Shimei for having the sect's number 1 monster ready at speed dial XD

Btw, I wasn't going to make this a / fic.... but I just love LiuJiu sooo damn much I ended up sneaking in some anyway, sigh.

See ya in the next chapter 🧡

Chapter 4

Summary:

More drunken shenanigans. In which Shang Qinghua is not as subtle as he thinks. The disciples are just too terrified to ask questions.

Shang Qinghua barely stopped his snicker at his fellow martial siblings' antics as they all crammed into the residence’s kitchen each taking a spot of their own. The space was just about large enough to be cozy and thankfully not restrictive housing eleven individuals. Like everything else in the residence the kitchen was spotless, fully stocked and seemed to be designed with comfort in mind. The entire residence was kind of growing on him to be honest.

 

Their guest of honor sat on top of the table, arms spread wide as if it was his throne watching them work intensely as he ate fresh peach slices Which Li Qingtian washed thoroughly before handing them over to be peeled and sliced dutifully by Liu Qingge who in turn kept handing them over to Shen Jiu good-naturedly. Someone should really interfere or they'll have no peaches left for the dessert.

 

Shang Qinghua found the whole situation comical and wished he had a camera to capture this glorious moment of his troublesome children getting along for the first time ever.

 

Ahhh although none of them compared to the most troublesome one yet. Shang Qinghua sighed tiredly remembering just why they're all in the kitchen at this hour.

 

Shen Qingqiu had napped for exactly ten minutes and then woke up once again full of feral energy only to practically jump on Shang Qinghua and half threaten half beg for the ‘yellow crisps’ 

 

The entire thing took less than a minute and left them all bewildered. Shang Qinghua the most as he tried to sort through the babbling until it dawned on him what the other must want.

 

“Ah… calm down Shixiong. How do you know about the… yellow crisps ..?” he asked dryly

 

The other just shrugged “I ate them at your house once.”

 

Which… okay, left him a whole lot confused. No matter how forgetful he was, he couldn't possibly forget such a glorious moment where Shen Jiu was at his house dining on potato chips. Naturally, he had to ask. Because it was disastrous if he was forgetting such important events with him being responsible for major secrets to two realms and a whole other life.

 

“I seemed to have forgotten, when was that Shixiong?” he asked just a little sharply 

 

“I came over for some business, you weren't there so I waited for a few minutes as the disciples swore you were there…” his eyes narrowed suspiciously at him in which Shang Qinghua nervously laughed it off “_ there were a couple of snacks on the table. I got bored and a little curious… so I tried one of the strange yellow stuff”

 

It took Shang Qinghua a whole second for his brain to rewire, Shen Jiu didn't seem to care or feel even a smudge of shame at what he'd done. It suddenly turned a whole level of dead quiet in the room.

 

“And I was only gonna try that one… but they were so good I took a couple more and suddenly the plate was empty. So then, I had to leave before you came back…” he admitted the last bit with rosy cheeks not meeting his eyes anymore.

 

Shang Qinghua knew his jaw was on the floor but he honestly couldn't care less at that point because WHAT 

 

“That was you!?? I thought I was going insane..!” and damn that sneaky brat he had left two bags Worth of chips in that plate, and a whole slice of honey cake before he was urgently summoned by Mobei jun to the demon realm only to come back late to find all his snacks gone! Just how long was he snacking in his house for..!?

 

Their conversation was cut short as Qi Qingqi was laughing too hard, following suit the entire room burst with laughter. The image of their cold, elegant Shixiong sneaking away from Shang Qinghua's house like a thief after eating the house dry was just too much for them to handle. They couldn't wait to tease him about it in the future 

 

Despite the offense, Shang Qinghua also calmed down from his shock to secretly thank all his stars because he had returned from that particular mission full of bruises and all his clothes frozen off. If Shen Qingqiu had waited for him, Shang Qinghua wouldn't have been able to explain himself to an infant much less the sect's sharpest Scholar.

 

As a secret thank you he got up to the kitchen to make him some damn yellow crisps. with far too much curiosity and nothing else to do, the others all followed him.

“Shang Shixiong… are you certain these are edible..?” Ru Qingchun asked for the seventh time this evening, clearly still skeptical but faithfully doing as told.

 

He himself stood over Ru Qingchun's shoulder supervising how thin he cut the potatoes even though he needed no supervision. Ru Qingchun seemed in his element. Back at ease, sleeves tied to his elbows showcasing the usually hidden muscles there. The knife moved so smoothly and skillfully in his hand that Shang Qinghua might've developed a little crush on his Shidi. Oh hell… he always had a thing for men cooking. He even made it a prominent golden finger for Luo Binghe to charm an endless number of wives with. 

 

“Yes Shidi, It's a secret family recipe” 

 

“Well… if you're sure.” 

 

---

 

Ru Qingchun was not sure. 

 

As the successor to the peak specialized in spiritual food and wine as well as the sect's yearly harvest he had never heard of such ‘recipe’.. and he would like to think himself fairly knowledgeable at this point in life. he had however, recognized what Shang Qinghua called potatoes as the very common wildlife plant that all farmers got rid off. And As far as he knew it wasn't edible. The thing was obnoxious at best, invasive at worst. Never cultivated. But Shang Qinghua seemed to think otherwise because these ‘potatoes’ were obviously cultivated with great care into different sizes making them slightly larger and more vibrant than usual.

 

“Mu Shidi, is the water cold?” 

 

“Yes Shixiong… how long should I leave them in for?” Mu Qingfang hesitantly inquired 

 

“Ten minutes. Don't worry about it for now” Shang Qinghua waved him off and it was quite spectacular how he seemed to have lost his nervous shell doing something he's confident in. 

 

Ru Qingchun found this look suited him alot better. He looked like a proper Succeeding disciple instead of a cowering mess. It was that which made him excited to try these new, unknown recipes. 

 

Well… that and Shen Shixiong glowing reviews. He had never in all his years in this sect gotten such praise from Shen Qingqiu. And he had secretly tried. He had put every known dish in history in front of him during gatherings and meetings. Hoping that perhaps this one will be the one to warm his heart and shatter his cold exterior.

 

None succeeded of course, the most he got was a nod of approval. Which was slightly disheartening..

 

But tonight… he had actually crawled on Shang Shixiong upon awakening and practically begged for… whatever this is.

 

Ru Qingchun just had to see what's so special about it. He hid his Chuckle when Shang Qinghua turned to scold Liu Qingge and Li Qingtian for giving Shen Qingqiu half their supply of peaches that were for the dessert. Another odd recipe Ru Qingchun had never heard of that Shang Qinghua was supervising.

 

The good thing is that whatever strange ingredients they seemed to be lacking, Shang Qinghua already had in storage which points to the fact that he does these often enough to keep a constant supply on himself. 

 

Apparently, The man had been casually carrying enough potatoes in his poach to feed a small village. Poor Liu Qingge had peeled about twenty pieces without complaining once. Others had offered their help but he kept refusing stubbornly, acting as if they were questioning his capabilities to peel fifty pieces in one sitting…

 

It was in such moments that Ru Qingchun was reminded that Liu Qingge was the youngest of them. 

 

Although, he relented once Shen Qingqiu spoke up as he nudged him with his toe “let em’ help you oaf… when you try so hard you don't blend in, you just become weird… well, weirder .” 

 

Everyone in the room held their breaths observing as still as possible. Startled, Liu Qingge was wide eyed to be read so accurately all of a sudden by his drunk Shixiong.

 

They all remembered how he's the only one among them confirmed to have come from a powerful noble lineage… Qi Qingqi was the closest to Liu Qingge in social standing coming from a minor noble clan that was more well known for their unmatched silk weaving techniques and gorgeous fabrics. Followed closely by Mu Qingfang who came from a long line of healers, his clan was highly respected even though none of them attained a noble title as the oath they swore by forbade them from excluding patients for any reason including social class. Ru Qingchun and Wei Qingwei both had a similar social standing, one from a clan of wine makers and the other from a regular blacksmith family that was more focused on jewelry making. It was only Wei Qingwei that seemed more interested in weapon making out of his family. 

 

Going by mortal social standing, Shang Qinghua, Li Qingtian and Yan Qingyi should be the lowest. Yan Qingyi's parents were regular servants before passing and she was casted into the streets at a young age.

 

While Yue Qingyuan, Shen Qingqiu, and Wen Qingming were the unknowns. so utterly well hidden that nobody could trace their past before they joined Cang Qiong mountain. 

 

It didn't really matter once they joined the sect, none of their past was relevant and all their social standing was rendered useless in training. Playing the big shot in a sect full of trained, talented individuals who were all forced to wake up before the first shimmer of light will only get you beaten up bloody first thing in the morning. 

 

Never Liu Qingge though, sometimes he stubbornly goes completely over the top with a task or takes on unnecessary hardships without prompt as if trying to prove a point. 

 

He always strives to behave so unlike a noble heir in front of others that he genuinely becomes a little too… wild . Others didn't dare point it out, but Shen Qingqiu did. He used that opening to the full to taunt the other whenever they met. Hence, reminding Liu Qingge of what he was running away from, what he tried to avoid people taking notice of the most and even mocking his efforts in the process. It was one of the reasons that had triggered Liu Qingge time and time again into a violent fight. And worse yet… until just this night, in his mind, Shen Qingqiu had embodied everything he hated about nobles. everything he tried to make others forget, Shen Qingqiu was there to remind them of. acting as if Liu Qingge's own inseparable dark shadow.

 

Liu Qingge hated Shen Qingqiu because he was everything Liu Qingge hated about himself.  

 

Once he comprehended that, Liu Qingge couldn't look his Shixiong in the eye.. settling to look down at the knife in his hand instead.

 

After a moment of tense silence he finally huffed and offered the potato in his hand to Li Qingtian “fine. Take it.”

 

The other immediately did. Settling next to him without fuss and finishing the entire batch together in silence. 

 

Observing carefully from the other side, Although proud of his Shixiong's progress, Mu Qingfang knew that was a dangerous way of thinking for a cultivator as strong as Liu Qingge. That kind of inner imbalance would not abode well for his future cultivation. That was the reason cultivators and immortals encouraged self exploration until completely comfortable with one's self before advancing to a higher state of being. 

 

to deny a large part of yourself so thoroughly, and at their critical stage as well… that kind of stubbornness could get him killed. Mu Qingfang made up his mind to set up a private discussion with him once they're out.

 

…

“Shen Shixiong if you eat these now then you won't have dessert.” Shang Qinghua finalized making Shen Qingqiu realize how dire the situation was. Thankfully, he stopped snatching the peaches from Liu Qingge's hand after that. 

 

“What are we making with these peaches anyway, Shixiong?” he asked curiously,

 

“A peach cobbler with ice cream.” 

 

“What's that? Is it any good?” Shen Qingqiu demanded, although his excited tone betrayed him.

 

Wow… he really seemed to like Shang Qinghua's cooking. Ru Qingchun was trying very hard not to take offense.

 

Shang Qinghua only chuckled, “You'll like it.” he simply stated. And that was that.

 

Shang Qinghua split their task equally to finish faster, curiously he gave their two martial sisters two talismans and a strange, big artifact of his own making because his secret family recipes, oddly enough, were only possible to cook with the aid of cultivation… seemingly the only one to remember Shang Qinghua claimed to originate from a humble, although unknown family of farmers, Wen Qingming was trying very hard not to ask any questions…

 

“This one is for the stove. And this one's for the ice cream, prepare them please.” Wen Shimei released a sigh of relief once offered a familiar task, taking the artifact and inspecting it with interest. Good call. Oh Wei Qingwei had seen some of her creations that had gone horribly wrong, alarmingly fast… better keep that one away from the fire… and oil. 

 

She inspected the pot that had a paddle attached to the lid with multiple engravings at the top and bottom to regulate cold temperatures “How fascinating… This is Very simple and elegant work.” she praised

 

Shang Qinghua seemed to blush a little… and many in the room found it honestly adorable. “thank you Wen Shimei, it's just a silly little ice cream maker, Hahaha ” 

 

He turned around to instruct Yan Shimei but she seemed to have figured out where to set the talismans by herself “Will hot Air be enough to cook the potatoes?” She asked, in wonder.

 

Ru Qingchun dubiously eyed how she always seemed to have that airy tone to her voice as if one step away from dissipating into the wind altogether. Yan Qingyi cannot fool him. She always stands in the shadows until they're playing cards and she's somehow guessing all their numbers correctly. Or when She's finally out of seclusion to ask for their birthdates to test her newest calculation method because she forgot their dates for the twentieth time again but she could still somehow gaze at their faces and name their ancestors and say.. and he repeats, “Master Zheng says Hello, he asks you to cut down the wine and to adjust your sleeping schedule.” Ru Qingchun had been majorly confused until he remembered Zheng Yu was his mother's great, great grandfather. 

 

She's just strange . But to be fair, who among them isn't? He doesn't think sane people become immortals. plus, who else but his Shimei would terrify him in the middle of the night into lighting some incense for his ancestor to explain very politely to his great, great, great grandfather that spiritual wine is good for his cultivation and that he's on a strict deadline for this important recipe but he will try to sleep more..

“_Yeah… it's called an air fryer. It's like, really hot. So you should seal the stove well before activation.” his Shixiong explained shifting his line of thought

 

Huh, an Air fryer, his Shixiong comes up with the strangest stuff… this out to be interesting. Ru Qingchun shook his head in exasperation 

 

Yan Shimei nodded And that was that.

 

Gu Qingbai stood next to Mu Qingfang, patting the thin slices out of the water dry as he kept casual conversation between them. Taking the other table, Qi Qingqi was kept busy with measuring the ingredients out of Shang Qinghua's mystery poach and into proper little cups for the dessert.

 

Little did they know.. Although looking calm on the surface Qi Qingqi’s secretly wondering how and why the fuck did Shang Qinghua separate milk into two different ingredients. And which is the butter and which is the damn cream…

Meanwhile, Shen Qingqiu seemed to have found a useful task for himself. He ate the peaches' excess skin once Shang Qinghua said they wouldn't need them and left Liu Qingge to finish peeling in peace.

 

Wei Qingwei was responsible for grounding the cinnamon and cardamom into fine powder which he finished in five seconds and then settled to watch everyone else as if he was sitting in his favorite play. He occasionally shared amused looks with the rest of his martial siblings whenever Shen Qingqiu messed with Liu Qingge as they worked. Messing his hair, leaning over his shoulders or playing with his sleeves. It was surprising for them how touchy he was when drunk when normally he's known to avoid touch as if everyone had the plague.

 

Eventually, he abandoned Liu Qingge looking bored and latched onto poor Li Qingtian instead.

 

He hummed “your hair is dry…” he observed rubbing two strands together judgmentally 

 

Li Qingtian flinched slightly, grimacing ashamedly at his own strands. He had always kept his hair in a bun for this exact reason. 

 

He brought his arms self consciously to his lap. He hoped his Shixiong wouldn't comment on the leather gloves that reached his elbows. Nor what's underneath them… or that will make things awkward for all involved. Not that he can be blamed for his actions being so inebriated. “Sorry, Shixiong.” He whispered amicably 

 

“Hmmm? Whatever for?” Shen Qingqiu replied, Li Qingtian slightly relaxed only to tense back up when his Shixiong brazenly grabbed his jaw and turned his head further to the side to closely inspect the burned side of his face.

He knew he didn't look like the others with his unsightly hair and repulsive burn marks. He had worn long gloves ever since he could afford to privately commission them but that didn't Erase the fact that everyone had seen what's underneath and knew already. And even though He had thankfully been able to get rid of all the other scars, the burns on his arms were far too deep to heal even with cultivation. So he's stuck with the gloves. For the ones on the side of his face he somewhat managed to cover with a special design made of black ink thanks to Shang Shixiong's unique recommendations. One he was immensely grateful for. The mortal realm might still find him repulsive, perhaps even more so with the ink. but personally, the tasteful and delicate work done by Shang Shixiong made him feel secure enough to forgo wearing a stifling mask. 

 

He casted a cautious look towards Shang Qinghua. His Shixiong was… an anomaly. None should know about his crippling fear of fire and heat and yet, the other had subtly positioned him near the door as far away from the stove as possible and told him to wash the food. And Whenever they're in a public setting he would automatically use his Qi to cool Li Qingtian's cup of tea before handing it to him even though Shang Qinghua was his senior and Li Qingtian should be the one serving him tea… Or take the time every week to make a stack of lighting talismans and send them over for him to use with paperwork so he wouldn't have to use candles past sunset.

 

His gloves were commissioned from the skin of a rare beast, the leather naturally resistant to fire and water and yet… the other still tries to spare him the trouble whenever possible. 

 

He does not believe for a single second that his Shang Shixiong came from a humble family of farmers. That man felt like calm ocean waters that enveloped everything but could suddenly rage and overhaul the entire ship to its dark depths. 

 

“Sit still.” Shen Shixiong demanded cutting his line of thought as he let go of his chin. and Li Qingtian all but stiffened warily trying to predict his course of action. It's widely known that Shen Qingqiu was big on appearances. Previously, Li Qingtian had greatly admired Shen Qingqiu from a distance and tried his hardest to avoid him, afraid that his company would be unpleasant for the Perfect Shen Qingqiu who seemed as if carved from pure jade itself. He was incredibly smart, knowledgeable, strong and had a very powerful presence that could overpower the entire room.. It was oddly reassuring to have him in group outings.

 

Li Qingtian in comparison was severely lacking. Rough around the edges, improper even at his best, He barely knew basic cultivator etiquette and can only interact normally with the beasts on his peak. The difference between him and the others felt like heaven and earth. generally, The best he can do is stay out of the way.

 

So yes, Li Qingtian does admire Shen Qingqiu but he doesn't delude himself into thinking the sentiment is returned. He knew his place in the hierarchy. 

Wei Qingwei sensing his unease clenched his jaw about to interfere and despite being equally alarmed, Qi Qingqi hastily grabbed his arm to stop him from interfering in a rare sentiment wanting to give Shen Qingqiu some faith. Nobody touched Li Qingtian. Their Shidi was Always engulfed in an unapproachable aura, looking uncomfortable to be anywhere near them. Nobody even dared to ask him how he burned both arms to such an extent… sensing the intrusion unwelcomed. 

 

Was it wrong for Qi Qingqi to hope that Perhaps their eldest Shixiong could get to him..?

 

Before any of the others could decide if they should come to his defense, Shen Qingqiu With nimble fingers took out his bottle of hair oil from his sleeves.. and before the poor Li Qingtian could Register, poured half the bottle on top of his head. Wei Qingwei hastily covered his mouth with his palm to stop the inappropriate laughter from coming out.

 

Li Qingtian who stared blankly at first was utterly gone once Shen Qingqiu had his hand buried in his hair. Wei Qingwei had never seen someone melt so fast before… The man dropped his head so quickly, Wei Qingwei genuinely would've thought something happened to him if not for the deep satisfied purring that was coming from his soul . He didn't even know humans could produce that sound. Shen Qingqiu easily guided Li Qingtian's head to lay on his right knee as if he was a doll to continue his work.

 

Qi Qingqi’s eyes gleamed in wonder at the sight… her martial siblings were unexpectedly so adorable? It looks like she's been seriously missing out… the fact that her youngest Shidi wasn't only comfortable with touch but also Actively sought it almost made her melt -and why on earth had they all just assumed otherwise?? Just because he had a couple more scars? Why was she blindly making assumptions?-

 

A feeling that was shared between the rest of the room as they looked at the comfortable duo in sharp realization. 

 

A while later and their Shidi still hadn't twitched. worse yet, he was slightly drooling. Everyone in the room kept sneaking glances their way half bewildered, half amused. Ru Qingchun didn't know about them but he sure was jealous… Li Qingtian looked really damn comfortable when Shen Shixiong's long, elegant fingers scratched his scalp. 

 

Apparently, two of their standoffish martial brothers were secretly the ones most craving touch. That was as unexpected as it was heartbreaking when everyone actively sought to avoid them. 

 

And as they drowned in guilt, Shen Qingqiu paid them no mind, his entire focus captured by Li Qingtian. He hummed 

“there. now it's all shiny an’ pretty. Jus’ Like you” he mumbled to himself looking quite pleased. 

 

He rubbed his thumb soothingly on the other's pulse point right underneath the ear as the other subtly shifted to bury his face in his thigh. away from sight.

 

Mu Qingfang smiled secretly and got back to work with his heart much warmer, ignoring how misty his eyes were. He might be the only one who knew the true extent of abuse his Shidi went through at the hands of his so-called family. He was the one who treated all those horrifying injuries after all. He watched him hide away from sight day after day out of fear of being judged. Mu Qingfang, utterly helpless, wasn't able to calm his troubles. But Shen Qingqiu, who was known to be almost cruel in his honesty, was different. Shen Shixiong's words must've brought their Shidi great comfort. 

 

Next to him, Gao Qingbai observed all the different emotions in the room calmly. He had no idea his Shen Shixiong was actually this type of person. He can't believe he used to think the man was ever cold and judgmental when he had actually been this gentle and thoughtful at heart. Once they're out he was going back to request a very deserved punishment from his Master. He had actually let rumors and heresy affect his judgment of a senior Martial brother who had done nothing but look out for them. He thought that staying silent and nonchalant would be the right thing to do when in reality His Martial brother had suffered for his passivity. 

 

He should've put a stop to the toxic words when he was confronted with them the first time. He realizes this now..

 

No matter, after his punishment he'll formally apologize and shut down anyone he hears gossiping about things they have no business discussing. Guilt was a bitter pill to swallow.. Gao Qingbai wouldn't repeat this mistake again.

 

…

Shen Qingqiu continued to just hold onto his Shidi, alternating between rubbing his back and hair gently and eventually settling on the exposed side of his face. Lightly Tracing the soft, mangled skin that intertwined with black ink. 

 

He knew his Shidi wasn't truly asleep.. His eyes were merely closed. Shen Jiu's finger tenderly traced over his scar, His Shidi's looks were unique. Shen Jiu was rarely affected by appearances but Li Qingtian truly caught his eye when he first saw him. 

 

The efficient black robes, leather gloves, the dark eyes, the elegant design that intertwined with his scars. He looked dangerous and sharp. Shen Jiu was envious. Back then he even wanted to ask him how he did the ink so he could copy the method to cover his own back. But Of course he didn't. 

 

Hmmm why did he not ask, again…?

 

Well, no matter.

 

He lightly tugged on his sleeve “Shidi… How did you paint this under the skin? This looks soo good…” 

 

The other opened his sharp eyes, blinking at him slowly like a cat. “It does..?” he asked in wonder

 

“Yeah! I immediately wanted one when I saw yours” 

 

His Shidi blushed a subtle red at the compliment “well… It was Shang Shixiong's idea. He gifted me a rare kind of natural stone that When mixed with water and left for a night can permanently settle under the skin.” 

 

Multiple heads turned Shang Qinghua's way, the other laughed nervously as he continued making dessert without meeting their eyes.

 

“Just a really lucky find… but if you want some Shixiong, I think I might have one left” -Shang Qinghua didn't really have any extra and if he was going out of his way to pick some up from the demon realm for his son that was nobody's business but his-

 

“I'll trade you…!” Shen Jiu looked around thoughtfully for a worthy item only to happily end up grabbing Liu Qingge's entire plate of peeled peaches. “Here.” He smugly offered.

 

These were fresh and very sweet. The highest of luxuries. He was confident that they wouldn't be able to find anything better. And now that he's thinking about it, He briefly wondered where they came from… Well, No matter.

 

His Martial siblings stared at him in utter disbelief for shamelessly offering someone else's labor, one of them was laughing to death in the background but that wasn't important...

 

“Why don't you sell me as well.” Liu Qingge said sarcastically. He wasn't truly upset. Shen Qingqiu was even dare he say, endearing like this. And Since he seemed to like peaches so much Once they're out Liu Qingge will get him a couple of boxes from his private estate to snack on. The ones in his backyard were carefully cultivated and Qi abundant; they'll be good for his cultivation.

But even though he was clearly joking, Shen Jiu still ended up freezing. “I don't sell people.” He whispered. His face devoid of color as he clutched the plate tightly to his chest. 

 

Sensing something wrong, Liu Qingge immediately sat straighter “I understand…” he replied carefully 

 

Shen Jiu, still looking pale, seemed to see right through him as he shook his head. “No..” he said softly as if conversing with a child. “I'd never sell you.” he heartfully admitted and If Liu Qingge didn't know any better he'd say the other looked heartbroken at the mere thought 

 

“Yes… it was a poor joke.” Shen Jiu’s big, wet eyes gazed into his soul for a few more seconds until Shang Qinghua swept in like a hero in shining armors and took the plate out of Shen Jiu’s hand. “Give me that… Thank you Liu Shidi, Shen Shixiong. I’m afraid the stone’s in my residence. I’ll give it to you when we’re back.” he ended the sentence by shoving some chips into Shen Jiu’s mouth to distract him.

 

Successfully distracted, he happily went back to drown Li Qingtian’s head with as much oil as possible. By the end of the night, Liu Qingge suspected his martial brother would smell like jasmine for at least another decade.

 

“More… More’s good… very shiny..” he mumbled forgetting all his previous line of thought.

 

Mu Qingfang chuckled.

 …

“Hey… I'm takin’ this off alright?” 

 

Li Qingtian's hand lightly twitched but he didn’t give any reaction. Shen Qingqiu didn't actually touch his glove until the other softly hummed.

 

He took it as approval and started sliding the thing off slowly in case the other changed his mind. The heavily scarred skin was exposed to light showcasing the mangled skin that didn't look right even though it had long healed. He reached the palm and very gently slid the thing off completely, thoughtfully settling it on the table.

 

He observed the hand he held with great care. Li Qingtian's palm was much worse off with all his finger prints and unique lines mixed and faded. Shen Jiu’s own slave mark that was now finally gone, had been agony to handle. His Shidi must've suffered unimaginable amounts of pain… even the new skin must be insanely sensitive. It must've been a nightmare for him to touch anything without his gloves. 

 

Closely observing his reaction, Li Qingtian silently lifted his head to sit properly and obediently handed him the other arm to uncover. 

 

Careful not to put too much pressure, he settled one hand on his lap before turning to uncover the other.

 

“You gotta let the skin breathe. Don't suffocate it..” Shen Jiu scolded softly 

 

“It wouldn't matter.” he answered unbothered 

 

Shen Shixiong pursed his lips with dissatisfaction, but it was true… Li Qingtian's arm wouldn't look any better for it. “Then Why haven't you healed it with your cultivation yet? Your cultivation's decent.” certainly better than Shen Jiu’s anyway.

 

“It isn't so simple. Some of the nerves were dead. It'll take a few more years before I can heal it all.” if all went well it should sort itself out in less than a decade.

“Tsk… but they'll feel way worse if they get too sweaty or itchy.” Shen Jiu grimaced remembering the horrible sensation of scratching the very sensitive skin on his shoulder once it got too itchy from the fabric. 

 

Li Qingtian did too. It indeed got extremely overstimulating at times but the thought of walking around with his arms exposed made him even more uncomfortable. 

 

“I can't help it, Shixiong. Some Days I can't stand looking at them myself” he admitted bitterly.

 

He expected it when their martial siblings jumped to reassure him that the injury didn't look that bad. He appreciated it. truly, it's just that_ “yeah… I get it. The memories can get unbearable. Sometimes I just wanna peel my entire skin off” 

 

Someone gasped,

 

“Shixiong..!” Mu Qingfang called out pained “Why would you even say_”

 

“Yeah…” Li Qingtian interrupted with his head lowered. His scars might be a sign of survival but they're also A constant reminder of his weakness once. It made irrational anger fill his chest. And then the pain comes with shame. until finally the space is overtaken by deep exhaustion. And then the cycle repeats. 

“But then_” Shen Jiu continued unperturbed by the uneasy air “But then, I remember that all my enemies are either long dead or utterly miserable and that all the fuckers who mistreated me will suffer from old age, sickness and mortal peril. while I sit on my beautiful peak a wealthy, prestigious, immortal Lord that will eventually cultivate to Ascension and I'm instantly happy again.” his eyes shone with vicious cruelty, his smile shifted in a blink from innocent and playful to near demonic. 

 

Li Qingtian didn't even know he was holding his breath, speechless at the unexpected… perspective .. he could see multiple of his martial siblings unable to breathe as well. Ah… There he was. That's Shen Shixiong in the flesh.

 

Before he could collect his thoughts, Shen Qingqiu focused back on him. Still holding on to his arms, lightly caressing the burns with his thumb. “In the future if you see any of them, point them out to me. I'll make sure they pay in full.” gentle fingers ran down his cheek 

 

He didn't think twice before leaning in for a hug. Which his Shixiong provided immediately, with arms tight around him and his face hidden in the other's shoulder. It was As he suspected.. Shen Shixiong gave excellent hugs.

No one dared interrupt such a private moment. pretending to be busy as they watched from the corner of their eyes. Gods.. if Shen Qingqiu wasn't the most unpredictable man on the mountain. they had no idea how someone could be so sweet and terrifying at the same time but they sure were glad the man was on their side.

 

If nothing else, if this forced stay made them certain of one thing it is to never Anger Shen Qingqiu. -and that perhaps they might've lucked out for being the safest people in the world- 

…

Feeling safer than ever made Li Qingtian feel bold. And so, He didn't think twice before voicing “Shixiong has scars as well.” he stated.

 

Shen Jiu munched on his plate of chips, “tons.” he admitted without much thought 

eyes shining with mild interest at the chips, Li Qintian carefully asked “Can I see…?” he asked completely expecting to be told off

 

Normally, Shen Jiu would've balked at the request. But as if right now he couldn't remember why that is… 

“sure…” he shrugged uncaringly before sliding the entire upper robe off. Multiple of his martial siblings blushed in embarrassment about to turn away until they froze completely in utter horror. Their Shen Shixiong's skin wasn't as soft and Pampered as they'd always imagined it to be. There were… a lot. And everywhere . Burns, stab wounds, cuts and what looked like… whip marks. Liu Qingge noted, Darkly 

 

Shen Qingqiu didn't have scars.

he had torture marks. 

 

“Shixiong… y..you, why…” a breathless Mu Qingfang stepped closer, not Daring to touch without permission.

Li Qingtian being so close had no such predicament. In his shock he thoughtlessly touched the most eye catching scar not noticing the flinch it earned him. A large straight line that traveled from his chest to his belly button which appeared rough enough to have been done by a knife,

 

Because someone had tried to quite literally gutt him open like a fish. Suddenly, the idea of whomever did this suffering the worst of torture seemed not enough.

 

regaining his senses, Li Qingtian dropped his hand as if burned and hastily stepped away “Sorry, Shixiong.”

 

Shen Jiu was slightly taken back by their reaction. He frowned, gaze traveling from one pale face to another “What..? What's wrong?” he asked with a mouth full of chips. Something he wouldn't be caught doing normally if his life was on the line.

 

“Shixiong..! What… What happened?! Why do you have so many Scars??” 

 

Shen Qingqiu huffed proudly “These are nothing. It took lots of time but… I managed to heal the worst of it.” His Slave brand had been first priority. He focused all his attention on it when he first started. And Because his cultivation was too weak he had to patiently heal at the speed of a snail. But… he did manage to make a good chunk of the injuries disappear even between missions, studies and his fellow martial siblings' “pranks” and poorly executed assassination attempts.

 

Liu Qingge stepped closer. “Who did this?” He asked with a dark tone, carefully inspecting every scar. It was no wonder Shen Qingqiu was always in a bad mood if this was the state of him on a good day..

 

Shen Jiu looked down at himself for a second then back up at him “Which one…?” he asked genuinely, unaware how his casualty at his own pain struck them harder

“Shen Shixiong, May I take a closer look?” the healer interrupted urgently 

 

Mu Qingfang was rightfully concerned. Most of these looked as if they hadn't healed properly. Something that wouldn't happen if they were from a mission or two as they always assigned an extra healer for all hunting missions. Cultivators of their level took great care of their bodies as The body was a reflection of one's cultivation state.

 

Even older Scars should've disappeared by now. The fact that they hadn't indicated something terribly wrong with his cultivation base. This isn't as simple as being lazy or not doing “enough” on the contrary, cultivating with an injury could do more harm than good. From where he stood, Mu Qingfang could very easily pinpoint which meridians needed an urgent examination. He approached slowly,

 

Shen Qingqiu Shrugged uncomfortably. The healer took it as permission and carefully took his wrist to channel some Qi. 

 

Turns out… The scars were the very least of their concerns. Only his professionalism stopped him from reacting as he hardened his expression and gently set the wrist down.

 

He could feel multiple eyes looking at him in anticipation waiting for his Verdict. Unlike Shen Qingqiu who continued eating, avoiding his gaze completely.

 

Mu Qingfang gently picked up his discarded upper robes and slid them back on his scarred, pale shoulders properly.

 

“Shixiong. I'm afraid we need to set time for a private session. First thing in the morning when you're feeling better.” he firmly stated as he finished putting him back together.

 

Shen Jiu didn't acknowledge him, his lips forming a small pout.

 

“What's wrong with him??” Liu Qingge asked bluntly 

 

Organ failure, nerve damage, head trauma, alarming amount of thickness in stomach lining, unnaturally fast heartbeat, multiple bones that needed resetting… he Listed in his head. And the worst of all…

 

The healer refused to answer. He knew better than to air matters like these freely, especially not when the patient was drunk and confused.

 

“Liu Shidi. One's health is a highly private ordeal. And might I remind everyone that Shen Shixiong is drunk .” Mu Qingfang Scolded in his best disappointed tone successfully making them look down in shame.

 

“But I will say this, Shen Shixiong, it's very important that you Do not use any Qi until I say otherwise.” 

 

Otherwise Mu Qingfang had no idea how his meridians would respond. Forcing energy through a blocked channel is a good way to blow yourself up.

“I'm fine! I'm not sick.” He stated stubbornly 

 

Feeling Mu Qingfang's helplessness Shang Qinghua stepped forward with a sly expression “Well too bad.. you know Shixiong, only sick people get to eat my Cake everyday. But since you're fine..” he sighed

 

Just like that Shen Qingqiu’s attention was immediately caught by him. “... Honey Cake?” he whispered 

 

“That old thing pft, no. My new improved secret Honey milk cake.” He whispered back with a small wink.

Shen Jiu's eyes shone with interest “What's a milk cake?” 

 

“You'll have to see when you're sick.”

 

Shen Jiu seemed reluctant for a second before he boldly stared Mu Qingfang down “I'm sick.” 

 

Mu Qingfang couldn't help the small smile as he nodded “Thank you for telling me Shixiong. Tomorrow we'll have a session as Shang Shixiong makes us his secret family recipe .” he said the last words teasingly 

 

Shang Qinghua rolled his eyes playfully as he went back to checking on the ice cream.

…

It didn't take long after that, Shang Qinghua finished preparing the peach cobbler under fascinated gazes. Ru Qingchun was genuinely excited for the first time in a while to see the results… he can tell everyone was too as they crowded around the stove like children awaiting their rewards once the heavenly smell started to seep through. Shen Shixiong practically inhaled the smell into his lungs. And Once it was out of the oven Ru Qingchun felt his creative blockage lifting away with this new exciting recipe. He can tell it will taste otherworldly,

 

Shang Qinghua openly snickered at the sight of the hungry hounds, reminding them to wait for it to cool as he scooped the ice cream on top. Using a little Qi to cool it

 

---

 

The dessert was a hit. Shang Qinghua smuggly watched his martial siblings sitting in the living room, trying not to moan with great difficulty. 

 

As the ice cream melted in her mouth, Qi Qingqi did not care if Shang Qinghua wanted to separate milk into four more ingredients as long as it tasted like this “Oh gods… Shang Shixiong, you're a genius.”

 

“Ahahaha.. Thank you Shimei.” 

 

“This is amazing! How did your family even come up with this..?” Ru Qingchun couldn't help asking as he took another bite.

 

“You know… lots of.. free time.” Shang Qinghua's eyes momentarily became distant as if somewhere else.

 

Not odd at all. Wei Qingwei subtly nudged Ru Qingchun with his elbow to drop the topic.

 

“Still.. you've been holding out on us. Shang Shidi, you need to share all your goods with us from now on. We're now closer than family” Wei Qingwei said with utter seriousness. 

“You should keep your window open from now on Shang Shixiong..” Qi Qingqi teased mischievously.

 

“Shimei.. it's bad enough that Shen Shixiong raids my house without telling me. If I leave anything open I'm afraid I'll starve in my own residence.” 

 

He smiled at hearing her true laugh, he hadn't heard most of their laughter in so long.. He was glad his children were having fun

Mu Qingfang couldn't help his own amused chuckle as everyone began trying to butter up to Shang Qinghua using exaggerated praise and teasing remarks good naturedly as the other man rotated between laughing and blushing.

“Seriously Shixiong, This is so good I might start courting you.” Ru Qingchun said jokingly of course,

 

It's just that nobody expected Shen Qingqiu to jump in with a shocking retort “Too late. He's already married. And they're wealthier than you”

 

Perhaps they would've taken it as some kind of a joke if Shang Qinghua hadn't immediately choked on his food, Ru Qingchun dropped his spoon. Dessert forgotten “I'm…. I'm sorry?”

 

Qi Qingqi’s Jaw was almost on the floor “What did you just say…?”

 

“I think I'm missing something… who.. who is married?” 

 

“Shang Qinghua You're married?!”

 

Different voices all shouted at the same time. 

 

“Wait No!... I.. I'm not married, definitely not… Shen Shixiong Why would you say that!??” Shang Qinghua cried

Shen Jiu rolled his eyes “That single earring you're wearing isn't ordinary. It's the Everlasting Blood coral of sacred bonds.” He answered as if that explained everything 

 

For Wen Qingming who gasped loudly, that was enough said. But for the rest who were confused and at the edge of their seats all shifted to look between their two Shixiongs’ for an explanation. 

 

“That sounds… familiar.” Shang Qinghua winced trying to recall what he wrote about the said stone. It wasn't his fault!... He had written hundreds of different types of jewelry for nearly each new wife. The words weren't helping in narrowing it down.

 

Shen Jiu, tired of their incompetence, took pity and clarified “it's a one of a kind stone only worn by married couples. The pair serves as a two way open channel to monitor each other's health and cultivation at all times. And if one person is injured the other would be able to transfer them Qi through it no matter where they are.” 

By the time he was finished the others had their mouths wide open and Shang Qinghua's face was the same color as his earring. “ Oh… ” he replied dumbly 

“Woah… these sound so useful. I could use a pair for hunting missions. They cannot all be hoarded by cultivation partners… right?” Ru Qingchun tried to lighten the mood only to fail miserably once Wen Qingming clarified “it's an extremely rare treasure in the human realm. And They cannot be worn by anyone other than a deeply connected couple who share a deep sense of loyalty.” 

 

“Oh my god…” Shang Qinghua whispered, now hiding between his arms, not daring to face the others. When Mobei jun gave him this earring and told him to never take it off and then glared at him hard until he wore it, he honestly didn't think much of it. He only thanked him and moved on. 

 

But now that he was reminded of the said stone he could see how it looked to others. Dear god, no wonder his Master's eyebrow shot to the roof once he walked by. And the demons who kept stopping to stare at him as if he had grown horns overnight… My king couldn't you have given me a more subtle spying device!??

 

Wait… he felt as if he was missing something important. He knew how his writing worked. There's definitely something missing..

 

He cleared his throat “so.. hahaha hypothetically Wen Shimei, What… What happens if only one person has feelings And the other does… not..?” He asked nervously, not meeting anyone's interested eye.

 

The others were fully invested in this development, Their Shixiong's response only making them more excited. Which one of them didn't have feelings? And why did he not know he was apparently married!?

 

Wen Qingming was unimpressed “ Hypothetically speaking… The Color of the stone functions as an indicator that reveals each other's true emotions. The more vibrant the color the stronger the other person feels about you. As opposed to if it dims or turns completely black that means the other person either completely fell out of love or died. If I remember correctly it was used as a symbol of power and devotion” 

Oh yeah… that sounded like his writing alright. Shang Qinghua swallowed, trying and failing to navigate the amount of new emotions that were running through him like a bullet train. Dear god… what did the demon court think of him whenever he walked in!? Scratch that! What did his King think wearing a glow in the dark bead that worked as a love detector!? Shang Qinghua feels damn naked at this point.

 

As he was frozen by panic, everyone came closer in anticipation to inspect his ear shamelessly 

 

“Oh wow… Shang Shixiong's earring is practically glowing. The other person must be madly in love with you!”

 

“Wh…what?” he asked, voice slightly higher than normal, unconsciously touching his earring until he remembered how vibrant the color was. He always admired it in the mirror, enjoying the fact that his king wore the other one at the same time even if it was a spying device. 

 

He even remembers showering his king with praise over how beautiful the color was, that time his king had given him a rare smile which almost knocked the breath out of Shang Qinghua's chest for how gorgeous it was. 

 

But if both stones were blood red then… then that meant…

 

That meant his feelings might possibly not be as one sided as he thought…? Or maybe the stone’s broken or something..

 

But… could it be that… his king might.. that he might love him?

 

“Oh god… I had no idea.. but why didn't he say anything?? How was I supposed to know…?!” 

 

“Aha!! So there's someone_” Shen Jiu jumped in victory at having the other's confession. The thing had been bothering him for months. He knew Shang Qinghua was hiding something… it was a nice conformation

 

“_And it's a ‘he’!!” Qi Qingqi completed in utter delight. This must be the gossip of the decade! Shang Qinghua was actually married. And to a very prestigious man it seems… 

 

Shang Qinghua!! Married!

 

“C’mon Shixiong! Spill. We need to know everything” 

 

Seeing no way to get out of this, Shang Qinghua will have to come up with something for them before they decide to dig deeper on their own… and that would be a disaster. He took a deep breath and thought fast of a story “alright, Alright.. Yes. There's someone I like. I just didn't think they shared my feelings.” 

 

Notes:

FINALLY I offer you a new chapter. Might be the longest thing I've ever written -8,000 words- which is why it took so long. I had to cut it because it's genuinely making me dizzy at this point hahaha , part 2 should be up soon though!

I know I've been focusing on Shen Jiu's lore but the point of this whole thing is FORCED BONDING so I've decided they're allllll getting reaal damn close. Cang Qiong operates as family and I live and breath for the found family troupe. So Next chapter: more about the mysterious husband ;) , new Shen Jiu lore, and angst. But... be warned it's going to be alot heavier as I will finish off the longest night in history of fanfics. That's it I guess... see you soon!

Extra:

The noble acting like a thug:... I hate you

The actual thug acting like a noble:.... No. I HATE YOU

....
Sqh: a ruthless spy who controls two realms from the shadows

SQH: hahaha I'm just a poor farmer's son. Yep, nothing to see here folks..

PLs acting deaf and blind : we don't talk about Shang Qinghua.

 

Also Ru Qingchun is always drunk because he doesn't want to face any of the weirdos in his generation sober especially not Yan Qingyi. The man DOESN'T want to know what his dead ancestors thinks of him at 2AM!

...
*RQC putting a 5 star meals in front of SJ who takes 2 bites..: WHY WON'T YOU EAT.

*SJ snacking on the cake he stole the night before from SQH house...: I'm... not hungry.

..

LQT: I'm so ugly Shixiong must be repulsed by me

SJ: that is the coolest MF I've ever seen.

-later-

Sj: I've known this emo baby for 5 seconds but if anything happens to him I'll kill everyone on this mountain and then myself.

..
List of things to do after confinement:

Shang Qinghua: Go to the demon realm to get Shixiong magic tattoo.

Liu Qingge: go back to the estate to collect Shixiong magic peaches.

Mu Qingfang: research Magic medicine to cure Shixiong

Li Qingtian: get Shixiong a list of his enemies.

Notes:

Hiiii!

Long time no see, I come back with another fic XD

Hopefully you like it!

Btw: I absolutely suck at naming. but I did spend an unholy amount of time reading a Chinese dictionary in order to name the characters so they make sense at least... I think. But if the names did turn out to be a disaster please pardon me I don't speak Chinese tell me and I'll try some other names instead!

 

For reference here are the peak lords based on rank. The rank is the most accurate thing in this fic btw XD

 

1. Qiong ding- Diplomatics/ Yue Qingyuan
2. Qing jing- Scholars/ Shen Qingqiu
3. Wan jian- Sword experts/ Wei Qingwei
4. An ding- Logistics/ Shang Qinghua
5. Xian shu- All females/ Qi Qingqi
6. Ku Xing peak- Monk peak/ Gu Qingbai
7. Bai Zhan- the warriors peak/ Liu Qingge
8. Qian Cao- Healers/ Mu Qingfang
9. Zui Xian - spiritual wine & food/Ru Qingchun
10. Ling You peak- beast tamers. / Li Qingtian
11. Chuang Zao peak - Artifact peak/ Wen Qingming
12.  Zhi Ji peak - tailsman and devination/ Yan Qingyi

Also I took the liberty of creating two female peak lords just because I can lol (who the hell wants to be on a mountain full of just guys? Certainly not SJ What weirdos)

Oh and almost all of them are introverts minus Yue Qingyuan, Wei Qingwei, Qi Qingqi and Ru Qingchun XD

Oh right one more thing, in case you didn't catch on, Yan Qingyi is actually the mountain's resident witch who is hiding behind divination as an excuse for her powers but she is so good at what she does that nobody asks too many questions.

Enjoy!