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Chapter Text

Luo Binghe stares at the strange tablet in front of him. This old, battered tablet was supposed to be the greatest heirloom of those southern barbarian demons? The Emperor wanted to laugh. He cannot possibly gift this to Sha Hualing now, could he?

"The l__e t_at transcended t_e divi__"

The letters that were ascribed were incomprehensible because of the missing letters; though he couldn't care less for this piece of crap.

"Xiu & Xin"

a love that last...

Luo Binghe frowned.

What nonsense?

Deciding that the aged stone is not worthy of his attention, Luo Binghe was about to throw the tablet to who-knows-where when he heard the Elder speak, a surprise tone echoed in his mind.

"Oh, how nostalgic!"

The sentient demon exclaimed, clearly pleased at the worn out object. His reaction draw Luo Binghe's attention. "You know of this thing, elder?"

The Emperor asked, mystified. It's quite rare for Meng Mo to pay attention to his matters much less the prizes of his conquest. The elder demon is a hard man to please since his taste is extremely varied. Luo Binghe doesn't care though. He doesn't have any intention of pleasing an ancient one after all.

"Xiu and Xin. Those were the names of the first Heavenly Demon, and Outcasted Immortal."

First heavenly demon?

"Wonderful pair, those two. But relationships are just like material things. Never built to last."

Meng Mo does sound sentimental to him. If he didn't know any better, he would say that the elder is in grief as he spoke of those two.

"Why, what happened to those two?"

"They died, in each other's hand."

Meng Mo's reply was silent. The demon did not even bother to mask the despondency that leaked in his sigh after answering the Emperor. But how could he? Every time he reminiscent of those two, Meng Mo could not help but be blue. Their love was meant to last. It was supposed to. But he guessed that fate is, and will always be stronger than love.

"They killed each other? Where's the tragedy in that? If it were me, I could keep both myself, and my lover alive."

Luo Binghe's scathing remark irks something inside the dream demon. He will not have a snotty, sniveling, vengeful, Shizun-less brat insult the greatest love story in his time!

"You couldn't even keep your scum of a Shizun alive and you think you can do what they failed to? It was the age of Gods. A brat like you wouldn't even be able to keep his life."

Luo Binghe would have cut the person's tongue for insulting him in this manner, but this isn't just anyone. Meng Mo is rarely angered, and seeing the old man all riled up sparked something inside him. If he were to tease him more, he wonders what Meng Mo would do. 

"You said something about an Immortal Master. I thought you hated humans? Why are you defending one?"

"I hate them and I still do. Though even if I don't fancy humans I still won't allow you to mock those two."

Now, this is curious. Luo Binghe always knew that Meng Mo has a complex personality but he never thought that the dream demon does respect someone in this degree. Even he, doesn't get this amount of esteem and he's the youngest Junshang in history to boot. To get this kind of reverence, Luo Binghe wonders what kind of pair were those two thus, he asked, "Why? What kind of person is he? That Immortal." 

The Dream Demon feigned a cough. Luo Binghe can tell, the old man was pleased by his question as if he's been wanting to tell this tale for a long time.

"Though that Immortal Master Xiu was a human, he was more divine than any of the heaven's descendants," Meng Mo retold with a hint of admiration. He was but a kid at that time. But even he can tell that, that immortal was the epitome of grace. "He was ruthless as he was kind. But his misfortune started when he met the celestial who fled from the skies,"

The Dream Demon sounded dreamy as well as forlorn. Luo Binghe never knew that Meng Mo has this... How does he phrase this? Romantic side? Sentimental side? Ugh. He couldn't care less.

"I don't see what's so great about that."

He carelessly commented, unaware that the dream demon would take offense from his honest opinion.

"What! How dare you say that, you brat! Their story is not something that can be spat at by the likes of you! You may have a harem of 3000 and had various of tales on how they became yours, but they still cannot be compared to those two."

Again, Luo Binghe wonders what's so great about deceased lovers who weren't even able to live up to this day despite being a heavenly demon, and an immortal. In the aspect of survival, he can only guess that he's better than them. And if he's a heavenly demon, why is he so useless—only having one person by his beside... He reminds him of that useless imposter of him in the other world.

"There's nothing great about dead people. As if they can surpass what I did for my women."

He mocked but Meng Mo isn't even discouraged. Instead, the demon looked all haughty; Luo Binghe feels as if the elder is looking down on him.

"Sure they can. You can't possibly defy the heavens for the hands of one man can you?"

Luo Binghe's brow raised with interest. "Defied the heavens?"

"Hmp. That's right. Now that I think about it, Xin was also sealed by Xiu inside the abyss," Meng Mo's thoughtful recollection got himself Luo Binghe's full attention.

"Elaborate."He demanded at the elder who hummed in response.

_______

The Immortal Master Xiu found out about the persistent pursuit of the Gods. It was a dangerous time for both he, and his lover. This is the age where humans held little to no power thus, it was also easy for them to betray another for the sake of survival and that's what exactly happened to them.

Betrayed by the villagers whom they saved from peril, the unknowing pair was surrounded by thousands of heavenly officials who wished for the lives of his other half—something he cannot, and will never give.

"What did he do?" Luo Binghe asked eagerly but the dream demon snapped at him in return. "Don't interrupt me!"

They were left with no escape in that situation. Both of them were about to be sealed at the place that is known to be Jue de Gorge with a Heavenly Punishment Array until a grace from hell opened up for them.

All of a sudden, a crack formed into the space. And that, that was a one in a million chance for them. So the immortal master did not took any second to think and pushed the man that he loved into the depths of the cruel abyss. It was salvation in some sense albeit the demon thought otherwise.

Luo Binghe scoffed darkly, "But what if he really wanted him dead?" He knew how immortals worked. He experienced that cruelty first-hand after all.

"I told you I was alive during that era. It was an all out war between Gods and Immortals. So when the Immortal Master sealed his lover in the Abyss, he was left to fend the threats on his own. Do you really think that he would willingly throw someone powerful in there if he had a choice? The celestials were vying for the life of that heavenly demon! The Immortal was left with no choice!"

Meng Mo was there. Though he was but a child, it was known to them that the only place for a wanted heavenly demon is the abyss. Cruel it may be, that place is the only salvation in the whole world for the eyes of heavens dare not reach into the expanse of the void. "And though he succeeded in making the divine surrender, they still cursed him in return." 

"What... What's the curse?" Luo Binghe doesn't know but he something inside him is perturbed.

"To die in the hands of the person he loved most, and to be reborn with everything, and yet, achieve nothing. It was a ruthless fate and not long after, it came after Xiu's neck."

The remorse on Meng Mo's voice cannot be hidden as he continued, "For it wasn't that long before the heaven's will came true. Xin jumped out from the abyss ten years later, his love shadowed by the betrayal of his lover."

A sense of deja vu washed ovee Luo Binghe. He doesn't know but something in this tale is stirring an uncomfortable and scary feeling inside him.

"He tormented the Immortal Master for millenia, taking everything from him, and forcing him to watch as he plunge the world into the darkness of his depravity."

It was a tragedy for all of them; mortals, immortals, and demons alike. Everyone watched in horror but nobody spoke out afraid of the demon's wrath. 

"But in the long run, the Immortal Master decided that it's time for his beloved to stop. When he was about to kill the child that they adopted, and once loved. That became the sign for the Immortal Master to take up his sword," Meng Mo sighed, sadly as he continued , "He dashed to save their child, sparing his lover another blood in his hands. They fought a bloody battle in the border for seven days and seven nights. Until the heavenly demon fell in the hands of the man whom he thought betrayed him." 

In Meng Mo's ears, all of this sounded too familiar. Luo Binghe was not the only one in deep thought for even the one who's speaking is reflecting on his own words. 

Similar, yet different. 

Equally tragic, still unfair. 

"Their end broke many people because of how tragic it is. The Lord challenged the Immortal Master, he taunted the him to end his life because the madness will not stop unless one of them dies. Albeit the Immortal Master smiled, a regretful one. After that, a swift kiss ended their life." 

Luo Binghe scrunched his nose in disbelief. After all that tragedy, that's how it ends? Haven't they suffered enough? They atleast deserve some compensation not some dull ending! 

"They died by kissing? Isn't that a bit... I don't know, pathetic? 

Luo Binghe heard Meng Mo screech at the back of his head, "Impertinent brat! Of course not! The Immortal Master drove their weapons to their chest." 

It was sad, tragic even. To die without any understanding, how sad is that? 

"Lame." Luo Binghe commented albeit somewhere inside him, an unfamiliar ache blossomed. 

_____

The sky was dyed red. The evergreens were demolished as hostile qi billowed in the winds — killing every living thing on sight, leaving two individuals who staggers to even stand on their own. It has been approximately seven days and six nights. The outcasted immortal and the first emperor lay waste to the borders of their respective realms in hopes of ending the other with their own hands. This was a predestined battle. A fated encounter that ended bloody, because of one disaster. Betrayal.

"Shen Qingqiu, do you regret it now?" 

The immortal appeared indifferent. Shen Qingqiu's expression did not change despite the question, nor did his attacks relented. Luo Binghe, the emperor of two realms, the exiled celestial, lurched violently as the immortal aggressively charged — their swords clashing, grating at contact. The demon lord already exhausted most of his strength. Fighting the only being who held the same power as him — or maybe even more, tire him beyond belief. However, he is aware. No matter how beaten both of them becomes, this duel will not end unless one of them dies. Such is their destiny. Their self-woven destruction birthed from years of heartbreak and enmity. Luo Binghe is cognizant of the denouement of this battle before it even started. But before the end comes, he still want his answers. 

"Regret what, exactly?"

Luo Binghe glared at Shen Qingqiu's eyes with defiance before answering, heart unwavering.

"Betraying me."

Loving me.

They both once promised. He will devote his whole being to him, and he to him. Those days before war were still vivid — memories of their first encounter that escalated to friendship, and eventually, to lovers. Lovers, until they weren't.

"Regret. I simply do not regret. And if I could do it all over again, I would repeat what I have done — without hesitation, and without mistake, the next time around." 

Shen Qingqiu brandished his sword. The immortal charged without reserve — vying for Luo Binghe's neck. Ah, he should have known. Shen Qingqiu has, and had always been heartless. The years of torture under Luo Binghe never mellowed the immortal's heart back to its original state, back to the selflessly kind heart that Luo Binghe used to love. He should have let his delusion go a long time ago because, the parts that they used to cherish about each other were long torn by ages of cruelty towards one another. Dreaming of the past whenever Luo Binghe nears his end had always been his sole luxury. Ah, the immortal whom he used to love — may we never meet again after this life. 

*

For a moment, Shen Qingqiu was hesitant to point his sword towards Luo Binghe's way. Today marks the seventh day of their battle, and only this day did the emperor asked a question that caught him off guard for a moment.

"Shen Qingqiu, do you regret it now?"

Regret. The immortal have lots of regrets. Shen Qingqiu regrets not being strong enough to defy both heaven and hell. He regrets that they lived their lives filled with pain and suffering that they would never forget. Shen Qingqiu regrets that he wasn't able to protect the heart that relentlessly pursued him because he was weak. Shen Qingqiu blames his person for Luo Binghe's darkening and years of misery inside the clutches of the abyss. That's why, Shen Qingqiu accepted Luo Binghe's cruelty the moment he emerged unharmed, yet changed from the void. He had it coming when he chose to hide the celestial inside a place no better than earth. Luo Binghe felt betrayed by him and Shen Qingqiu doesn't have the heart to rebuke him after hearing what the demon had gone through just to survive that place. Shen Qingqiu did not save him from the clutches of the divine because, the abyss was a place just as bad.

However, when he saw Luo Binghe lose his mind from anger, from rage; Shen Qingqiu decided to put a stop to the demon's madness. The years of torment that Luo Binghe put him through, Shen Qingqiu has no qualms. But when his beloved decided to completely ruin both realm by killing everyone who got on his way, Shen Qingqiu knew that it's time for him to take up his sword and hinder Luo Binghe's walk of carnage. His beloved was long gone. His beast was devoured by the monsters of the abyss. It took Shen Qingqiu years to admit that. 

"Regret. I simply do not regret. And if I could do it all over again, I would repeat what I have done — without hesitation, and without mistake, the next time around." 

True to his words of taking Luo Binghe's life, Shen Qingqiu charged. If there is next time, Shen Qingqiu will accompany Luo Binghe in venturing that place. In that way, both him and his beloved will not be eaten alive by rage and regret. Shen Qingqiu promised that after this life, he will be by Luo Binghe's beside whether as friend or foe. Shen Qingqiu solemnly swore; this is the first and last time he will take Luo Binghe's life. 

"Do it, coward!"

Shen Qingqiu held his blade to Luo Binghe's throat. He can feel Xiu Ya tremble at the hesitation that's brewing in his heart. The moon was already high, and tonight marks the seventh night of their resentfully regretful duel. Both of them knew how things will end before this battle even started. One of them will die, while the other will stand as victor over this losing war.

"Qinaide, forgive me not," Shen Qingqiu whispered a lone tear escaping his eyes. Raising his blade, the light of the moon mockingly reflects their pathetically, pitiful reflections as tears and blood mixed in their visage. "This is the end of us, my tianshi, my love."

With a swift move, the first crowned emperor of the demon realm fell in the hands of the man he claimed to love. And before Luo Binghe's body hit the ground, Shen Qingqiu enveloped the dying man in his embrace as their weapons pierced their bodies together, marking the end of their duel. Shen Qingqiu can taste the iron in his mouth as blood started to paint the edge of his lips.

I will not cast you away alone, this time around.

Let's meet again, my little butterfly. 

That day, the sun rose above the horizon just the same. However, both realms knew of the lover's fate. They knew, that the rising of the ball of light marks the eclipsing life of the lovers who once tried to defy the divine. 

Chapter Text

"You're still curious about those two aren't you, brat?"

It has been weeks since Meng Mo bugged Luo Binghe's mind with the tale of the First Heavenly Demon, and the Outcasted Immortal. And to say that he's curious would be an understatement; for Luo Binghe is more than just interested.

"Say, elder. Did those two left any memoir in the mausoleum? Or anything that's connected to them and their stupid love story?" he asked since even after conquering the southern territory, he never got another piece of information or relic that connects to those two. The first, and last one that he had was a stupid battered tablet from a fallen Clan. 

"Not that I know of. But you have something that was once owned by first heavenly demon," the dream demon's reply made Luo Binghe's brows raise in question. "I don't." He said firmly while flipping another page of the ancient book that he procured in one of the strangest auction on the black market. 

"You do. Where did you think Xin Mo originated?" 

The answer of the dream demon made Luo Binghe laugh with derision. That can't be. Xin Mo is a blasted gluttonous sword, and unless he bathes in his enemy's blood every waking moment, that demon wouldn't be able to control the darkness that it holds. Well, unless that man has a harem comparable to his. 

"You said that the first heavenly demon only had one partner. How can he wield Xin Mo? Did he went on a killing spree before ending his lover or something?" he asked albeit Meng Mo just shook his head, wondering as well when he answered. "Well that's a mystery to me too since the next holders after that man were subjected to the same treatment as yours." 

It was not a lie. After the death of the original owner, Xin Mo became extremely powerful but vengeful as well. The adopted son of the two had to seal the sword himself into one of the demon realm's temple, but those who greed for power always seemed to find their way to Xin Mo. Still, none of them lasted long—well not long enough as the current emperor who housed the beauties of the entire world. 

"He must have a secret harem," Luo Binghe commented in an accusing manner but that earned him another spiteful reply from the ancient demon, "I told you he doesn't! He loved the Immortal Master so much to betray him like that! Besides, he's powerful enough to contain that sword of yours without anyone's help. Don't lump him in with you, you brat!" Meng Mo exclaimed as if he's personally offended. But Luo Binghe is not one to back down. 

"Then how?!" he asked in demand but the dream demon just sighed. Meng Mo is just as clueless as he is, "I don't know. Maybe because he's strong. Or maybe because the one he mates with is someone who's extremely pure. Could be anything, really." He said in frustration but this just earned him a snide remark from Luo Binghe. 

"What pure? Your romantic side is making my skin crawl, elder," he muttered before pausing—a new question blooming inside his head. "What about the Immortal Master? Did he left something in here?" he asked but only to be met with a disappointing reply. 

"Nothing that I know of. Maybe he left something in his Sect but you burned everything down so there's no way of knowing."

The Sect? What does Cang Qiong have to do with the ancient demons? Luo Binghe knew that the Sect was old but it cannot be that old. 

"Ah—But I do remember something..." 

"What is it?" he questioned once more, still wondering about the century old Sect that he destroyed. 

"That scumbag master of yours..." Luo Binghe's mind stopped. "What about Shen Qingqiu?" he asked silently, albeit with a hint of urgency. 

"His sword is akin to the immortal master's spiritual weapon." Meng Mo's emphasis to the word akin did not escape Luo Binghe's ears. Maybe the dream demon is aware that by saying this, he's feeding his head something dangerous—something ominous. 

"What are you trying to say?" he asked, his eyes narrowing while the dream demon just feigned his cough as he continued, "I'm not saying that it's the same since spiritual weapons eventually breaks once their wielder dies—save for the Demon Realm's weapons. But that Xiu Ya held the same aura of purity and elegance. Though the light in your Shizun's sword was more dimmed than the Immortal Master, and it's shorter."

____

Luo Binghe finds himself again back inside the world where the kind Shizun resides. It's not like he wanted to come back here and see that pathetic version of him, but you see, Ning Yingying told him something extremely interesting. 

"Hello shizun," he greeted albeit it appears that the man knew how to distinguish him from his impostor given his wary gaze, "You're not my Binghe. How did you come back here?" the cautiousness and accusing tone on the Immortal's tone is evident as his (or maybe not his Shizun) grip on the hilt of Xiu Ya tightened. He looked at him as if Luo Binghe came here to do something bad. "Shizun's gaze hurts. Your tone suggests as if I'm an impostor when..." Luo Binghe paused, a humorous laugh escaping his mouth, "... nevermind." He said dismissively, a spark of amused mockery passing his dark eyes. 

"Well? I'm not coming with you if that's what you're here for," Shen Qingqiu—or whatever the man's real name is said firmly as his grip on Xiu Ya loosened. 

"What? No, no. I don't want a fake Shizun," he said coolly which earned him another incredulous gaze as he continued, "I don't even want a real Shizun. I came here only because I'm curious." He commented, finally stating his reason for being here but the Shen—Shizun in front of him seemed more interested about his knowledge about him being fake. 

"How—?" the man inside the husk of his Shizun asked—looking lost for a moment before Luo Binghe answered. 

"How did I know that Shizun is not Shizun? That's easy. Your soul, and memory core is very much different," Luo Binghe did not notice it the first time he came here, but when he went to explore the man's dreamscape again despite him being in an alternative dimension, he realized why this one was extremely different to the real Shen Qingqiu. His memories, everything that the man remembered greatly differs from the things that is known to him and to his world. Thus, he came into a definite conclusion that the soul is different—and that this man is not the original immortal that he once revered, and admired. "It's not my business though. I just came here for the archives," he added in nonchalance while holding his hand out. 

"Archives...?" 

"Yes, archives. Though you're not the real Shizun, the original Shizun should still have the key to that before he passed, right? I came here for the key," 

_____ 

Luo Binghe watched in astonishment as the array fell down completely the moment he placed the jade seal at the iron doors beneath Qing Jing Peak. Though he initially thought that he had razed the mountain to the ground, he did not expect that something like this hides at the depths of the scholarly peak. Ning Yingying did told him about this when he came to her chamber to unwind—the girl was uncaring of the place that used to be her place of origin. She also said that everyone was denied access to this place unless they are the Qing Jing Peak Lord. Though Shen Qingqiu only visited the place once because apparently, it's only filled with useless and ridiculous stuff. And well, he's not wrong.

The chamber is filled with nothing but old scrolls, and books. Though he tried to read everything that made sense to him, Luo Binghe just grew tired since most of the writing only tells about certain techniques, and sword styles that is, and will never be suited to him. He concurred that this is probably the skill set that is learned by every Qing Jing Peak Lord before they become one, or after. An information that is completely useless to him. So after a while of reading and discerning, he finally decided that it's time to go since this place is just as useless as Qing Jing Peak.

Standing up, the overlord headed for the door only to trip and fall in the process—an embarrassment that never happened to him for years. Equally annoyed, and angered because of the time that he wasted in this useless chamber, he draw Xin Mo carelessly while slashing the rope that caused his fall whilst destroying half of the room in the process. Luo Binghe then looked pleased with the destruction of the countless book that took his time and was about to make his way out of the forsaken place, but stopped midway.

Behind the shelves of books, an old painting stood. Though it took a hit from his sword which carved it in half, he will still not mistake the visage of his own nemesis—smiling foolishly, almost peacefully at the lap of another man.

"Me. Shen Qingqiu, and me."

He whispered hoarsely while tracing the familiar words below the frame.

Xiu and Xin

a love to last but never got the chance... 

Chapter Text

Every waking moment for Shen Qingqiu is amount to torment. One way or the other, he would always be reminded of his past—past lives everytime he reincarnates in another timeline. The Gods seems to be quite diligent in reminding him of his past transgression of defying the divine. Shen Qingqiu for the record, already lost count of the lives that he lived. One time, he was an immortal master, an individual everyone revered yet hated for existing. In that life of his, the man who claimed to love him in his first life damned him to the point of no return. Luo Binghe, that person would always appear in his many lives, and would always come to him just to end him—just to fulfill the curse that was deigned on him. 

And everytime that man comes for him, Shen Qingqiu always find himself hoping that he, Luo Binghe would look back on what they used to have. But it was a pointless, and naive thinking because Luo Binghe was always without memory. Thus, Shen Qingqiu is left to suffer on his own mind, cursing his own fate. He only has himself to blame, because who told him to fight divinity for the sake of flimsy, fleeting love? The man can't even remember him, much less his sacrifice, so why did he do what he did? These questions plague his mind everytime he's reminded of what he did in the past. Still, sometimes, he loathes his own person for loving someone foolishly, without reserve. But most of the time, he admires that part of him because it reminded him, that he, Shen Qingqiu is capable of loving someone at the cost of everything. His story is not beautiful, no. It is tragic, as it is foolish. He can't say that he doesn't regret it, but Shen Qingqiu thinks that if, by any chance, Luo Binghe remembers what they used to have even just once, maybe Shen Qingqiu would be more than willing to endure this torment until his soul breaks from constant suffering in every incarnation that he has and will have.

"Betray your country. Betray your Emperor, and stay with me. If you do, I will spare your life."

Shen Qingqiu lets out an amused laugh. Even now, he can count on fate to mess things up for him, because now, before him, is the general of an enemy country who seized one of their country's major bases, Luo Binghe. And Shen Qingqiu's life is once more handed in the hands of this man as the enemy strategist of Luo Binghe's homeland. The bitter irony of love, that must be Shen Qingqiu's tale.

"Kill me." He urges with a smile. At the very least, he can die smiling in his lover's hands—a pleasure that he deigned himself to have.

"So you would rather die than admit defeat, Shen Qingqiu? You would rather have me kill you than stand beside me with your life intact?!"

Shen Qingqiu does not deign Luo Binghe with answer. He's already surrendered to death thus far. That's why, he doesn't see the need to cater Luo Binghe's descent to madness even if his words were misleading his already troubled mind; because, one might think that Luo Binghe's words is that of a man who's being abandoned by his lover for honor. Oh, how much Shen Qingqiu wished that, that was the case! But reality is cruel, and his destiny is a grievous, vicious thing because what Luo Binghe really wanted was his mind to fell his empire. Shen Qingqiu's cooperation to usurp the throne of his brother, Yue Qingyuan. And that, he would not allow. These people who are with him are the ones who always die—caught in the crossfire of the curse that is only meant to harm him. Unironically, the people whom he shared death with, the ones whom he's indebted with—always reincarnate with him.

"Very well. Since you're so fixated with your ruler, I'll have you as a gift for him!"

He heard him warn ominously, but Shen Qingqiu can guess what he has for him. Most of the time, Shen Qingqiu would lose a limb or two. Sometimes, a part of him is removed—his eyes in particular seems to be Luo Binghe's favorite since he would always gouge it out to give Yue Qingyuan, occasionally, Liu Qingge. It just always depends on who's the one closest to him in his lifetime.

"Someone, come! Peel of the strategist skin and make a box out of it. After that, take his head and stamp my army's insignia in it. Make it so the message is clear. Luo Binghe, the one they so despise is coming for their heads!"

With that, Luo Binghe left and Shen Qingqiu is once more faced with the consequences of his choices. Dying at the behest of his beloved is a painful thing to repeat, but does he have a choice? Ironically, he took that freedom from himself a long time ago.

___

Luo Binghe headed to the Hall of Divination, still fuming in anger. Shen Qingqiu that man, he used to be his mentor before he defected—always believing in him and his capabilities, but ever since he presented as enemy, the man just constantly looked down on him as if he was dirt.

"His life is a small price to pay for insulting me!" he screamed as he entered the chamber of the ancient astrologist, Meng Mo. The victory of his conquests are only made possible by the divinations of the elder. Even him asking Shen Qingqiu to deflect was an advice given to him by Meng Mo himself.

"You are going to regret your decision." You always did, a reply that was not heard was spoken by the elder's mind.

"I never regret my decisions," Luo Binghe said, rather confidently, much to Meng Mo's amusement. You also said that, once upon a time—a long time ago. When Shen Qingqiu was no more. And Meng Mo is sick of seeing it play for a thousand times because Luo Binghe only always find out about his history with the man once he's already gone.

"I wonder, will you start running if I do it this time?" Luo Binghe looked at him, puzzled. Meng Mo in return, just smiled. 

Memoria Inversa, the elder whispered whilst flicking his finger. Luo Binghe, still confused stared at him incredulously before falling on his knees, hands on his head as the young general started to writhe in pain.

Meng Mo just smiled.

The memories that he acquired during his stay at Luo Binghe's troubled mind must be registering at the youth now. The next steps that Luo Binghe will take after remembering his past anger and regret is not for Meng Mo to decide. He will leave it to fate, as regrettable as it sounds. 

___

Luo Binghe is confused. One moment he was sitting before Meng Mo, the next he is standing in front of Shen Qingqiu—wearing a clothing that he never owned nor seen and with a range weapon akin to a gun in hand.

"Even now, you're asking me to betray the organization that I serve, and be with you, but I can't do that to them, nor to you," Luo Binghe frowned at Shen Qingqiu's words. It was vaguely similar at what he told him hours ago. Still, that doesn't explain why he's here with him, in the middle of what seemed a confrontation, in the midst of towering buildings and flashing lights.

"That's why, you may pull the trigger, and even after you do, I still won't blame you. I had it coming. I choose to do this to you," he heard him say in sadness which puzzled him. The man before him is completely vulnerable, as if he's capitulated to him. This is not the Shen Qingqiu that he knew.

"You said, you loved me. Then for once, choose me."

Luo Binghe is now left dumbfounded. This mouth of his just spoke without his volition! And even his heart is aching as those words left his mouth, albeit he doesn't understand. Why is he feeling this way? 

"My love, is destructive. Many people had died for the sake of it, and you know it. You've seen it, you did it. We both did it. That's why, we don't deserve it." 

Every passing second, Luo Binghe is left in wonder until he felt himself floating above the two—ah, is this someone's memory? He asked himself but no matter how he look at it, that man is wearing his face though his ugly crying is not something he accepts. 

"This is exactly why, I never wanted you with your memory, my love."

Shen Qingqiu whispered as Luo Binghe witnessed him step at the edge of the building. He saw his doppelganger fumble and fall as he screams for Shen Qingqiu to stop but the man just smiled.

"Since you couldn't kill me, this will be our goodbye. Farewell, my little butterfly."

Then Shen Qingqiu disappeared, along with the unfamiliar terrain. Luo Binghe though confused, fell in a state of anguish as he's thrown to yet another unfamiliar place. In that place, Shen Qingqiu is hanged for the accusations of adultery yet after some time, his purity was was proven. Still, that doesn't change the fact that Shen Qingqiu is already dead. And he, Luo Binghe, once more was the cause of his demise.

 ___

By the time Luo Binghe wakes up, his mind is already muddled with his memories—not his memories. He doesn't know what to call nor label the things that he saw but one thing is certain; he needs to go see Shen Qingqiu right now. He needs to confirm something (he doesn't know what) and he needs him to remove the sickening feeling that eats his inside—devouring his heart with searing anguished for wronging someone he never met. Those Shen Qingqiu, they felt oddly familiar, and that is devastating Luo Binghe's inside.

"General, we have already sent the head of the strategist, Shen Qingqiu to the emperor. What shall we do next?"

Chapter Text

Today marks the 17th reincarnation of Shen Qingqiu in yet, another strange era. The mortals at this point of time uses swords with mana, or so they call it. It is something that is rather new to him albeit not enough to pique his interest. Well, if you've lived long enough— (which he failed to do so for he always die at twenty) or should he say, reincarnated for a number of times now, oddities is something that he always encounter, thus expects.

[ . . . System Loading . . . ] 

Shen Qingqiu's head rang. An unfamiliar, yet ominous thing suddenly registered inside his range as he's thrown inside an unusual place. Shen Qingqiu opened his eyes—his vision was met with white light as his body floats before a red and black screen. Shen Qingqiu tried to grasp the thing before him in curiosity but his hands just went pass the floating illusion. 

[ . . . Greetings, valued guest . . . ] 

Shen Qingqiu frowned. Where exactly am I? He asked himself as the 'thing' responded to his query, one that he did not voice out. 

[ . . . Answer: Guest, Shen Qingqiu is inside the Plane of Euthymia. You are summoned by this system - the representative of the divine . . . ] 

Shen Qingqiu's expression crumpled. Though he does not have much memory of what transpired in his first life because his soul is eroding along with the fragments of his memory, he knows one thing. Gods are shit. 

"Why did you bring me here?" he questioned, glaring at the hovering illusion before him. He's already compliant with their nonsensical vengeance towards him so what more do they want from him? 

[ . . . Answer: The celestials are curious. This system quote, "Why is the Outcasted Immortal not questioning his position unto the divine retribution?" . . . ] 

Shen Qingqiu scowled, "Why do you ask? Last time I checked, you arrogant bunch never wanted your decision to be questioned, so why ask?" He jeered, albeit he shouldn't have. For the next second, he finds himself sprawled onto the white ground—staining the pure floor with carmine as his insides burned with ache as if his organs were being crushed. 

[ . . . System advices Guest, Shen Qingqiu to answer respectfully. Any indications of insult, or slander will not be ignored. The plane that Guest, Shen Qingqiu currently in is under the jurisdiction of the celestials. Slights will not go unpunished. . . ]

Shen Qingqiu grimaces as the pain slowly subsided. Black spots are already invading his vision but it abated after the system's late warning. Those insufferable deities truly are the bane of his existence.

[ . . . Going back, to answer Guest, Shen Qingqiu's question, system once more quotes the divine, "Shen Qingqiu's curse is in an aberrant state. Individual, Shen Qingqiu's cycle is not meant for Shen Qingqiu, albeit `twas fated for Sinner, Luo Binghe . . . ]

Shen Qingqiu's brows furrowed. That curse was given to him. As his memory serves... Wait. His memory? But his memory... His memory is faulty.

Shen Qingqiu tries to remember. He was confident that he was the one to receive that verdict. The eyes of heaven was directed to him that day when he shoved his lover unto the depths of hell. After that, the curse was fulfilled when he killed both of them after battling for long seven days and nights. And the lives that he lived after that, he killed—no... He didn't kill Luo Binghe. After their first life, Shen Qingqiu did not take Luo Binghe's life; rather it was his own, or Yue Qingyuan, sometimes Liu Qingge but never Luo Binghe. 

[ . . . Guest, Shen Qingqiu was not supposed to connect with Sinner, Luo Binghe. The celestials are in bewilderment for Guest, Shen Qingqiu would always be the cause of the end of the lives of his fated ones . . . ] 

Fated ones? The incredulous expression on Shen Qingqiu's face only became more apparent. But Luo Binghe was his fated one, not anyone. They were both cursed to damnation so what is this drivel now? 

[ . . . Guest, Shen Qingqiu must be troubled. Then, allow this system to enlighten you more. The curse, the punishment that Guest, Shen Qingqiu is aware was handed to Sinner, Luo Binghe. By any means, the comeuppance that was delivered to Guest, Shen Qingqiu was vastly different. Guest, Shen Qingqiu's true punishment was to end the one who loved you most. But everytime, you're always the one dying by the hands of the one you cherished who is, Sinner Luo Binghe and that is wrong. Because this curse, Luo Binghe should be the one under it not Guest Shen Qingqiu . . . ] 

Shen Qingqiu frowned, even more confused. The malediction that he knew of was dying by the hands of the one he loved most and almost all the time, the one who delivers his death was Luo Binghe. And now, this floating, suspicious, but strangely powerful thing is telling him otherwise. Is this another divine trick? He asked himself while eyeing the "system" suspiciously. 

[ . . . It appears that you are doubting the words of this system . . . ] 

He heard it say irritably (probably) as the letters glowed even more ominously as a question pops on its screen. 

Why do you think your curse became so messed up? 

It asks, but Shen Qingqiu has no way of answering to that. Besides, even if the system is speaking the truth, something he has no way of knowing, it still wouldn't matter. Because in the end, Shen Qingqiu will still die. May it be in his or Luo Binghe's hands. There's not much of a difference since death had always been his fate, and he had already accepted that a long time ago. This was the consequences of his actions, a decision that he never regretted then, so what's the use of resisting the repercussions now? Besides, its not like his misinterpretation will change any major thing. Whatever the situation may be, at the very least, he has someone who loves him at every life that he lived, and will come to live. And to be honest, that thought alone is enough to keep Shen Qingqiu going. 

[ . . . It's because Luo Binghe never truly loved you after your first life. That curse applies to the both of you. But why is it that you're only the one who's always dead except for your first life where the both of you died side by side? It's because you are not loved by him after that, Shen Qingqiu . . . ] 

___

Shen Qingqiu walked the halls of the academy without any fixed destination in mind. He tried to rack his memories, desperately trying to search for any fragments that indicated Luo Binghe's love in any of his life. There is none. 

In the first place, Luo Binghe cannot even remember him everytime they reincarnate. He thinks he did once, but his memory fails to remember which proves otherwise. Did the system spoke the truth? NO. No, that cannot be true. Luo Binghe does love him. They are fated, he would never desert him. Never... Shen Qingqiu will not allow it!

"Senior Shen, wait up!" A distant call made him pause. Without turning around, Shen Qingqiu halted as another student presented themselves before him, still panting. "this is the new junior in our division," a hand stretched in front of him, a young teen stood right before him. 

"I am—

"Binghe," Shen Qingqiu interrupted the younger student, startling the two. He brushed the other one aside as he held the hands of the confused lad who stares at him in confusion, "... you loved this master genuinely, didn't you?" He asked in desperation, not minding the incredulous stare that he's getting from Luo Binghe's companion who tried to pry him away from their junior. 

"I'm sorry? What are you...?" 

The confusion in his question gave life to another form of darkness inside Shen Qingqiu. Why don't you remember? He questioned himself, still gripping the hands of the squirming lad before him—trying to get away from his grasps. 

I loved you, he whispered. Unaware of the unstable mana that swirls around him. In his peripheral, he saw someone shouting, motioning for him to stop, albeit his mind cannot process anything other than the despair of his own mind. 

"Senior Shen, you're scaring us! Please snap out of it!" 

How can you do this to me? After everything I've been through for you, how can you not love—remember me? There is a billowing ache that exploded inside him. A thousand years worth of emotional pain finally exploded after Shen Qingqiu forcibly pushed it down to the depths of his very being for the longest time. The accumulated damage brought forth by his own dilemma for not being able to accept the loneliness behind the truth is now destroying his own mind, his own heart.

"I apologize, but this is the first time I ever saw you. Senior Shen, I don't even know you."

These words fanned the flames of hatred inside the unstable magus even more. The crystal, that holds the control for Shen Qingqiu's core shattered as the fluctuations of his mana occupies half of the academy halls. Still, both he and Luo Binghe remain unharmed even when they are the center of it all.

"Then die." Shen Qingqiu said firmly, hands moving from the younger's hands to his throat. Shen Qingqiu can see Luo Binghe squirm beneath his grasps as the lad tried to catch his own escaping breath. "There is no reason for me to continously sacrifice my life when you are this ignorant," he whispered in malice as Luo Binghe's neck snapped, his head rolling down the ground.

Shen Qingqiu looked at the limp body without remorse as he fled the scene, dispirited. This world, and everything in it has no value for him. Because in the first place, he only lived for one man, for one person. But now, that reason is dead and Shen Qingqiu has no need to live yet another fruitless life when fate has already robbed him of everything.

_____

"Ludociel, you of all, should know that what you fed the immortal was not right."

The admonishing words of Sariel broke the owner of the system, Ludociel from his stupor. He was the one in charged for making the life of the rebel hellish when he chose to defect from heaven. Though it has been a thousand of years, Ludociel is still not satisfied with Lu—Luo Binghe's sufferings. He was also the one to hand the curse to the two and none opposed his idea except for the divinity before him. Sariel was the only celestial to oppose his decisions. Even now, the angel is still committed to stopping his plans. 

"Who cares for little trickery? Shen Qingqiu only has himself to blame for messing with the order of my punishment. I only want Luo Binghe's pain. The rest do not matter." He responded calmly, albeit the resentment is still apparent.

What he said to Shen Qingqiu was not exactly a lie. Well, maybe half of it was but it was partly true. The curse was originally Luo Binghe's not Shen Qingqiu's. And though they are meant to die by each other's hand, Luo Binghe was the one who's supposed to have memory not Shen Qingqiu because in that way, death will be more painful for the rebel. But for some reasons that is unknown to him, the curse was reversed. Shen Qingqiu always ended up having the fragments of their past instead of Luo Binghe and this frustrated Ludociel to no end, thus he decided to meddle and correct the flow of his own punishment.

"Luo Binghe had always loved Shen Qingqiu. You shouldn't have told the Immortal otherwise."

The distaste in Sariel's tone was apparent. Ludociel of course knew how this divinity hated lies. But in his defense, he was technically saying half of the truth. Luo Binghe after all, would only be able to realize his own feelings once Shen Qingqiu is dead. It was a rather amusing cycle, a scene he never tire of watching.

Luo Binghe committing self-slaughter everytime Shen Qingqiu dies is the peak entertainment for him. Ludociel had watched Luo Binghe jump down the same building where Shen Qingqiu took his own life. He thinks it was the lover's tenth incarnation when they first did that. Suicide was never done by them simultaneously before that. After that, the next reincarnation was Shen Qingqiu's death by hanging, ordained by Luo Binghe himself. That stupid fallen celestial had actually accused the reincarnated immortal of adultery and went ahead to execute him only to find our that he was mistaken once the beau was dead. It was a good show while it lasted, if he was being honest. Still, Luo Binghe's pain was not enough. Though it was raw, it is still not enough. Ludociel needed him to suffer for betraying the heavens despite the grace that was given to him ever since he lived by the will of the Supreme.

"Luo Binghe always die after Shen Qingqiu disappears from his world. They have always loved each other no matter the lifetime–always protecting one another in ways that hurt the other. They were lovely. Truly, lovely." Ludociel heard Sariel mused as the higher archangel placed his hand at the body of the world tree where souls gather, waiting to be reincarnated in yet another dimension. "But because of what you did, Shen Qingqiu would never know of Luo Binghe's own pain for right now, all his soul knew was the pain of its own sacrifice. Shen Qingqiu will reject any fragments of affection, of memory for that child. And Luo Binghe, that poor brother of us will never get to lead a happy life."

Chapter Text

Luo Binghe finds himself back to where everything cruel had started — inside the comforts of the confining wood shed where the logs hits his back at the cause of slight movement. He is supposed to wake in a new age, not regress. Another anomaly, he supposed while surveying the familiar surroundings in the middle of the darkness of night. He... strangely missed this place. 

Walking out of his place for repose, Luo Binghe ventured into the bamboo groves that seemed to serenely dance under the night sky. He never had any good memories of this place. Rather, the only time that he remembers was when he burned the whole mountain to the ground because of his spite towards his master. Shen Qingqiu was cruel then; and he always will be because, it was designed to be that way. 

"Such cruel fate," he mutters, while sauntering the marbled path leisurely. It is only during times like this that he's in peace. During his past lives, he always had to live in fear of encountering Shen Qingqiu's reincarnation, but not because the man was meant to kill him, no. But because everytime the immortal does, Luo Binghe knows the consequences of taking his life. Recalling the forgotten memories, then living in guilt until your own hands puts an end to your misery. Or being forced to the brink of madness for killing someone because destiny had made you cruel enough to take the life of someone repeatedly without remorse. These are the things that will happen once one of them dies in the hands of the other and that's why, Luo Binghe wanted to spare them the grief of separation, albeit whatever means he try, even if he runs, the curse still pursues him — unwilling to let go of his life. Fate is cruel like that. 

"What are you doing here?" 

Luo Binghe's musings were interrupted by the familiar stern voice. Before him, a graceful immortal landed — fan snapping open, hiding the Immortal's expression. It has been quite a while since he saw Shen Qingqiu in this attire with that expression. Stoic and disdainful. Classic Shen Qingqiu, he thinks. 

"Shizun..." 

"Answer this master's question."

Luo Binghe fiddles with his fingers before proceeding to answer, "I was just taking a walk." He said meekly while bowing his head in submission. Luo Binghe used to act this pathetically whenever he's confronted by the immortal. He's just copying his old incarnation since acting differently will only raise questions. 

"Taking a walk at this time of the night?" 

The suspecting gaze as well as the doubtful tone of the immortal did not escape Luo Binghe's range. Well, he cannot exactly blame him because, disciples are bound to rest once the sun sets because of the long, tiring, day. But the case is not the same for him since he just woke up in this body after dying. He basically did not do anything strenuous other than drinking poisoned wine. 

"The bed was uncomfortable. This disciple woke up because of discomfort." He lied, but not exactly. The shed after all, does bring him soreness and aches. It's not the most comfortable place in Qing Jing, but beggars like him can't possibly be choosy if he wants to stay. 

"Go back to your room. If you cannot sleep, then meditate instead of wasting time walking. Tiring your pathetic body cannot possibly help your sorry of an excuse for a foundation." 

Luo Binghe just nods obediently. Though he still want to look at Shen Qingqiu's face for some time, he cannot help it if the immortal wants him out. Luo Binghe still hasn't forgotten that this incarnation of his, is an eyesore in Shen Qingqiu's eyes. Any signs of defiance against the scholar will just lead him to a bout of pain and he's not about to have that. Luo Binghe rather he sleeps. 

"Where do you think you're going?" 

Luo Binghe halted at the question. Shen Qingqiu sounded confused as he was annoyed. Luo Binghe however, fails to understand because he's just doing what Shen Qingqiu exactly wanted him to do so there should be no problem with him obeying his orders. 

"To sleep, as Shizun commanded." He replied silently but the immortal's forehead crease even more. "The dorms are in the other direction," he heard him say, quite mocking. But Luo Binghe knows that. However, his circumstance doesn't really allow him to sleep in the comforts of a proper room because his peers hates his guts for being favored by his shijie who chooses to remain oblivious to his situation while continuing to make things difficult for him by sticking beside him. 

"This disciple, doesn't have a place in the dorms." He said casually before walking out of Shen Qingqiu's range. He better get his rest. The morning will be long this time because, he's no longer accustomed to this weak and feeble body of his. Better take all the rest that he can possibly get. 

*  *  *

Before Luo Binghe can even get to the cafeteria for food, he was already dragged by one of the hall masters towards the direction of the dorms. He can feel the  indignation directed to him when he was thrown inside by the elder, eyes glaring dangerously. 

"Paint us in a bad light again, and see what I do!" The man said in anger before leaving him which just made Luo Binghe even more confused. Is this supposed to his room now? He wondered on his own while perusing the contents of the cabinet and shelves. Old books and two new sets of Qing Jing robes. Is this also his? He asked again in silence, but his thoughts were interrupted once more when the door flew opened — revealing a young, naive, disciple who carelessly walked in his room without care. 

"A-Luo! I heard you got yourself a new room!" 

Ning Yingying's ignorance about certain things had always put him in tight spot, like right now. Female disciples are not allowed to wander the male quarters — much less enter it. 

"Please take your leave, shijie. You're going to get me in trouble by your actions." He pleaded, in the most polite way possible. Luo Binghe will be the only one blamed and punished for Ning Yingying's actions. The only thing that the dame can do is complain about how cruel everyone is for condemning Luo Binghe for "their" actions, but in reality, Ning Yingying was the one to instigate everything. If anything, he can already consider her ignorance as sin since he's the one who is always penalized for her thoughtlessness.

"Aw, come one! You need to celebrate with me!" 

Ning Yingying hugged his arm tightly, her skin too close for comfort. Luo Binghe tried to pry his own limbs from her, but to no avail so, he had no choice but to exact a bit of force in order to remove the female from his body. But as luck would have it, he pushed her far too strong which made Ning Yingying sprawl in his newly acquired bed, the hem of her robes had risen in a very suggestive manner. As to how she ended up like that, Luo Binghe absolutely had no idea. 

"Someone, come! Luo Binghe pushed Ning-shijie to his bed!" 

See? This is exactly why he wants her out of his life.

*  *  *

Luo Binghe finds himself back to the shed. But this time, with aching body filled with lacerations and wounds. Shen Qingqiu had administered his punishment personally for daring to make advances on Ning Yingying. Something he did not do, but there was no witness to prove his innocence. And Ning Yingying's constant denial just made Luo Binghe's grave deeper because, not only was he forced to vacant his new room, he was also whipped for fifty times without break. Shen Qingqiu was trembling in anger with every strike, but the unstable state of the immortal's body doesn't make the lashes any weaker. Luo Binghe badly wanted to curse Ning Yingying to death for his current suffering, but it's not like raging will make him any better so he just surrendered to the pull and slept. His wounds will heal another day. 

Chapter Text

Luo Binghe settled down inside the inn that Shen Qingqiu rented for them to stay in for the night. He vaguely remembers the content of their current mission, but he knows that somewhere along the way, Ning Yingying will be abducted and he will be blamed for it that's why, he refused his trouble-magnet shijie's offer for shopping in the market. The last thing he wanted was to get on Shen Qingqiu's last nerve. He knew that the immortal loathes him even more now, because of the misunderstanding caused by Ning Yingying last week. Luo Binghe never really got the chance to clear his name from the incident. Shen Qingqiu still sees him as a licentious student who eyes his fellow senior female disciples improperly. That's why, he's keeping his distance to Ning Yingying, despite the dame's insistence.

"I'm afraid you'll have to ask Ming-shixiong or the others to keep you company. I have tasks that I need to finish before night comes — I don't have time for shijie. I apologize."

Luo Binghe bowed in respect, while turning his back on the upset disciple. He's not exactly lying. Shen Qingqiu ordered him to feed the horses despite the fact that Luo Binghe did not ride one, since he was forced to go on foot by his martial siblings. Still, it's better than accompanying Ning Yingying on a prohibited excursion. Shen Qingqiu firmly told them to stay put, thus abiding by Ning Yingying's wishes only spells trouble — and that's the last thing he wants.

"I rarely asks for favor... Stupid A-Luo!"

Ning Yingying stormed out, but Luo Binghe could not care less. He's not obligated to do her "favors". It's only in this life did he realize Ning Yingying's goodwill as ominous. That girl only ever brought him trouble. It's his pleasure to be rid of her.

*

"What did you just said?!"

Luo Binghe face-palmed. Shen Qingqiu is seething, while a kneeling Ming Fan and the other two disciples tremble before the immortal in fear. Ning Yingying disappeared. They said they were out shopping — looking for trinkets, but then, the moment they turned their attention to the goods, Ning Yingying vanished into the crowd. They were not able to locate her qi, and out of fear of the scholarly lord's wrath, they searched for her until the sky went dark. This scene was familiar to Luo Binghe. In the past, he was the one subjected to Shen Qingqiu's ire for losing Ning Yingying. And though he knew that the chances of it happening again were high, Luo Binghe did not warn nor prevent Ning Yingying's plight because of spite. She deserved what was coming for her. Ning Yingying only has her ignorance to blame.

"You will not leave your position until this master secures your shimei's life. If Ying'er dies, you will know the extent of this master's wrath."

Shen Qingqiu stood up from his seat. Luo Binghe's eyes followed the immortal's back before deciding to follow Shen Qingqiu all together, who stopped in his tracks to turn onto him, obviously angered.

"Are you daft? Or did you not hear this master's order?"

Luo Binghe lowered his head. Fiddling with his fingers, he answered. "This disciple hopes to be of help," he murmured, while acting nervous. "Of course, this disciple already knew that Shizun doesn't need my assistance in rescuing shijie from a demon's hands, but I thought I should at least help in giving first-aid if Ning-shijie were to be injured. This disciple only wanted to take this chance in repaying his debt to his senior, even if it's just a little."

That was a lie. Luo Binghe could not care less about Ning Yingying's well-being. She could bite the dust before him for all he cares, and Luo Binghe would not bat an eye. However, the one he wants to accompany was Shen Qingqiu. The odds of the immortal dying are high because of the curse ordained to them. He wanted Shen Qingqiu safe even if the immortal loathes him down to his core in this lifetime. 

"And do you really think that this master will allow you to touch Ning Yingying after what you did to her weeks ago? Do you take me for a fool?!"

Shen Qingqiu's habit of talking in third person broke as the immortal grabbed Luo Binghe by the collar. It appears that Shen Qingqiu is still hung up with the dorm incident given the hate in his eyes.

"And as I have told shizun before, I do not harbor impure feelings towards Ning-shijie."

Luo Binghe's words were firm. Even in the past, when he was still naive and thirsty for love, Luo Binghe didn't have any desire to hold Ning Yingying passionately in his arms. All he had was gratitude for her, for caring for him when things got rough. That was the extent of his affection even after he became emperor. Luo Binghe did bed her, true. Howbeit, that was only because it was his duty as husband. There was nothing more to it until Xin Mo came into the picture.

"And why should this master trust the words of a bea—"

Shen Qingqiu's ridicule was cut short when the bell tolled. It signals the coming of midnight. If they hang around any longer, they will not be able to find Ning Yingying alive. Luo Binghe will bet that an eviscerated corpse is the only thing that will be left behind.

"If you try to do anything funny, I will personally cripple your cultivation with your idiotic martial siblings and throw you out of the sect with them." Luo Binghe is aware that Shen Qingqiu meant every word he said. However, he remained unfazed. And because of that, Shen Qingqiu silently took off with Xiu Ya. Luo Binghe on the other hand, drew Zheng Yang to follow the worried immortal.

If Shen Qingqiu remembers him, will he still turn his back on him without thought? Or will the immortal embrace him like he did before (their first life)?

Luo Binghe has no way of knowing the answer to his questions. 

Chapter Text

Like the past, it didn't take too long for Shen Qingqiu to find the source of the demonic energy that scattered around the city. Though Luo Binghe already knew the exact location, he didn't dare point in case he elevates the immortal's ire. That's why, he only followed meekly without a word, until Shen Qingqiu decided to tear the roof of the building apart in a single stroke — revealing the unconscious Ning Yingying and the startled demoness. 

"Take your filthy hands off her." 

In the past, Shen Qingqiu said the exact same words when Ning Yingying was also abducted. Luo Binghe still remembers Shen Qingqiu's rage at that time while battling butterfly because the immortal arrived almost too late during the incident. Luo Binghe was the one to fend the demoness from consuming Ning Yingying at that timeline and he doesn't know whether Shen Qingqiu is angry at him, or at the demon who injured Ning Yingying. 

"How did you even find me?!" 

Shen Qingqiu was early. Ning Yingying is tied for now, and the disciple still haven't sustained any injury like she did in the past. Shen Qingqiu's swift arrival must have startled the demon, Luo Binghe thinks. 

"Oh, were you hiding? I thought you were inviting this master to come find you, given your scattered energy that encompasses the city." 

The lesser demon went red with anger. Shen Qingqiu just subtly mocked and belittled butterfly's skill without literally pointing it out — which Luo Binghe thinks is a good idea because, the demoness completely forgot that with Ning Yingying as her hostage, she's supposed to have the upper-hand. 

"You are going to die today, human!"

Luo Binghe sighed. Mindlessly charging towards Shen Qingqiu without any prior plan is death sentence in itself. But that's not his problem. That stupid demon can die for all he cares.

*

Luo Binghe shakes Ning Yingying to consciousness. It took him a good three minutes to wake the dame from her slumber. He originally came here to guard Shen Qingqiu, not babysit a scared disciple who clings to him for dear life. Good thing the immortal brought the demon outside, or else Luo Binghe will be at odds with Shen Qingqiu again because of this woman before him.

"This is hardly appropriate, Shijie. Please get a hold of yourself."

Ning Yingying's face was buried into the crook of his neck while her arms were snaked around Luo Binghe's upper body tightly before he decided to pry his person from her.  He wanted to quickly remove himself from this situation and head outside to where Shen Qingqiu was. However, Ning Yingying is making it hard for him to do so.

"You're still angry with me, aren't you? But what can I do? Shizun doesn't believe a word I say! I'm not to be blame with his anger for you!" 

Luo Binghe's expression harden. However, he did not say a word. Instead, he turned his back on her and walked outside where Shen Qingqiu battles the demoness. He doesn't want to deal with her because Luo Binghe's patience is thinning everytime he's egged by Ning Yingying. 

"How dare you walk away from me! Are you going to be this disrespectful towards your senior?!" 

Luo Binghe grimaced. He didn't want to think about it, but now he's forced to understand. Ning Yingying was spoiled rotten by Shen Qingqiu to the core. What she wants, what she demands, whether its material or not, she always had it in her palms. Shen Qingqiu made certain that the dame was never lacking in anything, and that's why, Luo Binghe's rejection must have come off as a surprise.

It's quite laughable though — to the point that thinking about it makes him angry, because despite Shen Qingqiu's favor towards his female disciple, Ning Yingying did not even bat an eye when he presented her the miserable state of the immortal in the past. Luo Binghe doesn't even know if the dame before her knew of the word gratitude. Because had she been aware, he would have pleaded him for clemency like Yue Qingyuan did for Shen Qingqiu. Ning Yingying wouldn't have turned a blind-eye if she was grateful for everything that Shen Qingqiu gave her, but she didn't. And that enrages him. 

"Disrespectful. If that's how you view my actions, then I can no longer help you. You are already absorbed by your narcissistic beliefs that you are right in everything you do. That's why, I will not waste another breathe in correcting you. You're on your own. This shidi will find Shizun." Sighing in disappointment, Luo Binghe exited the torn building while Ning Yingying screamed unbefitting profanities behind him. 

*

Shen Qingqiu easily deflected the butterfly's claws for nth time. The she-demon isn't anything special. She's average at most, and that is only her best.

"Stop dodging me, coward! I will claw your pretty face out and take your skin for myself, damned immortal!"

Pretty. What a laughable remark. Shen Qingqiu will consider himself anything but pretty. He's far from that word, extremely so. If anything, he's the opposite of it — but of course, he would never voice any of these thoughts or feelings. He'd rather die than speak his mind.

"Are those words your last? If so, I will proceed as planned; if you don't mind." The immortal's demeanor completely changed. His lax expression was altered the moment his fan closed with a snap. Shen Qingqiu already noticed the silhouette of his two disciples behind the demon's back so, there is no reason for him to stall. Drawing Xiu Ya out, Shen Qingqiu charged. In the first place, the demon only lived a few minutes longer because he was waiting for his disciples to come out safely. And now that they did, the filthy thing can start her journey to the underworld.

"Farewell."

Shen Qingqiu raised Xiu Ya midair. He can see the fear pervading the demoness's pale countenance, when realization hit her that her death is near. Shen Qingqiu's blade almost reached the skin of her neck when the immortal stumbled and fall in pain, while clutching his head. Xiu Ya fall by Shen Qingqiu's beside with a thud. Something is messing inside his head. A demon's trick? Unlikely. The one before him is not capable enough. He thought, as his skull was invaded with a crippling static that comes with a searing ache — one that he never felt in his life.

[S❚❚T❚M  ❚O❚❚ESI❚❚N ■ ■ ■ ❚RROR] 

... 

[REPEATING PROCESS ■ ■ ■ ERR❚R] 

Shen Qingqiu writhes, anguished. The pain that started inside his head had already invaded his whole system. He felt as if his skull was being smashed open, and his insides were being ripped to smithereens. However, despite all this, the strangest thing is that, no blood is being bled. Shen Qingqiu's veins were almost popping, his face red — contorted with agony as he tried to suppress the howls of his own shrills. He can feel his eyes blur as his and the demon's situation reverse; him on his knees on the ground, and the baleful thing is the one who stands tall before him, currently holding his own blade to his neck. 

"It appears that the heavens favors me today! Blessed are the wicked, immortal. Now, die!" 

Shen Qingqiu closed his eyes. Is he going to die like this? He remembers what Wu Yanzi once said. People like them who started pathetically, tend to have a comparable end tragically. Shen Qingqiu laughed derisively, for once, Wu Yanzi was right.

Chapter Text

"He only has his incompetence to blame."

Luo Binghe's ears rang at Liu Qingge's remark. They are currently inside the premises of Qian Cao. Luo Binghe flew all the way from Shuang Hu City to Cang Qiong after witnessing Shen Qingqiu fall unconscious in the middle of battling the demon. However, as far as he's concerned, butterfly was not the cause of Shen Qingqiu's fall. It was completely something else, and that's exactly why he headed straight for Mu Qingfang without a moment of repose for hours, only to hear his own master be criticized by the war god who knew nothing of Shen Qingqiu's current predicament.

"Had he trained instead of busying himself with shameless acts, he wouldn't have been defeated by a lesser skinner demon!"

Luo Binghe was slightly aware of Shen Qingqiu's feud with his martial family in the past — given that they had always assumed the worst from the immortal. However, he didn't know that it was this severe to the point that, Liu Qingge would choose to belittle the unconscious Shen Qingqiu, instead of worrying for his condition. Shen Qingqiu surely had it tough. Both in the present, and the past, because as far as his memory serves, Shen Qingqiu willingly submitted to him in exchange for Cang Qiong's continued legacy. And now, seeing this absurd treatment before him, Luo Binghe wasn't able to control his mouth.

"With all due respect, Liu-shishu was not there to witness Shizun's fight. I would rather not have you speak your mind if the only knowledge that it possess was mere speculations of what had transpired." he said sternly, conveying his contempt for Liu Qingge's callous words. "The skinner demon did not even managed to touch a strand of Shizun's hair. He did not fall because of her, and if you are as skilled as you have claimed to be, then you would have known. Because, there is not a single wound in Shizun's body that suggests of his defeat like you previously claimed."

Luo Binghe watched as Liu Qingge's expression mixed with anger, shame, and disbelief. The brutish lord's pale countenance turned beet red in embarrassment upon being lectured by a lower disciple. However, borrowing Liu Qingge's words, he only has himself to blame for his ignorance.

"Hah. What would a disciple like you know? You don't even know how to respect your elders, yet you dare teach me about what I needed to know?!" Liu Qingge's voice thundered inside the infirmary, obviously incensed at his audacity. Luo Binghe on the other hand, jumped in surprise. He didn't expect Liu Qingge's circuit to be this short. Liu Mingyan after all, used to praise her brother — in a very exaggerated manner, at that, he thinks before composing himself. Luo Binghe forgot his place for a moment and made a mistake. He forgot that his behavior will reflect Shen Qingqiu's teaching; thus the peak lord will certainly be criticized again once he regains his consciousness by the war god. And once it happens, Luo Binghe will be the recipient of Shen Qingqiu's ire, again. It completely slipped off his mind. However, since he will certainly be punished by his Shizun, then why should he stop in angering Liu Qingge to death? The least he could do was relish his pain's worth. Besides, he was not entirely wrong. Had Liu Qingge decided to inspect his Shizun's condition first before blabbering nonsense, or had the war god just kept quiet about his opinions entirely, Luo Binghe wouldn't have had to scold him for being presumptuous.

"Right. What would a child like me know?" he says calmly, agreeing to Liu Qingge's previous statement while glaring mockingly at the warlord. "But what do you know, Liu-shishu?" he asked, adding fuel to the fire that he's started. Questioning the war god's intelligence must have struck a nerve, given that the qi inside their space started to feel confining. However, that did not stop him. "Nothing. You know nothing. Respect begets respect, Liu-shishu. You spoke ill of Shizun before me, yet you expect me, his disciple, to give you the same thing that you denied him. If I don't give the favor back, then I wouldn't be of Qing Jing." he said, in a condescending manner, one that earned him a ticket back to Qing Jing without his Shizun. Mu Qingfang drove him out of his peak in order to avoid Liu Qingge's obvious rage. Well, peak lords are not allowed to punish or harm a disciple from another peak, so Liu Qingge can only bottle-up his anger. Luo Binghe hopes that he will direct his anger to those brain-dead monkeys from Bai Zhan.

*

Shen Qingqiu leisurely walked towards his peak. Mu Qingfang discharged him after he woke up, saying that he needed a rest — and probably a long term one at that. Mu Qingfang suggested he enters seclusion in order to further advance his cultivation, and calm the erratic behavior of his qi because, even the healer wasn't able to pin the exact problem of his plight during his battle with the demon. However, Shen Qingqiu has his own speculations. He heard voices in his head before his body completely went limp — all the while keeping his consciousness awake. It was as if a dream demon was trying to infiltrate his mind, but failed midway; reducing him to experiencing sleeping while having full awareness of his surroundings. It was as terrifying as it was annoying, because he was able to hear Liu Qingge's drivel clearly but his state wasn't allowing him to open his mouth and refute the other's statement.

"With all due respect, Liu-shishu was not there to witness Shizun's fight. I would rather not have you speak your mind if the only knowledge that it possess was mere speculations of what had transpired."

Shen Qingqiu's ears perked, by little upon hearing a small, but stern voice defend him. It was his first time witnessing someone actively take his side. Though, the one speaking sounded familiar.

"The skinner demon did not even managed to touch a strand of Shizun's hair. He did not fall because of her, and if you are as skilled as you have claimed to be,"

Skinner demon. The one he saw running towards him before he was incapacitated was him, wasn't he? Luo Binghe, that /weak/ child. Shen Qingqiu vaguely remembered the flying head of the skinner demon, and someone's faint assurance before he arrived at Cang Qiong. This kid, the one who was always the recipient of Qing Jing's cruelty was the same person to whisper words of comfort to him during his unconscious state. Shen Qingqiu remembers hearing Luo Binghe say, "It will be fine" repeatedly to him, he almost believed it.

"... then you would have known. Because, there is not a single wound in Shizun's body that suggests of his defeat like you previously claimed."

Looking back, Shen Qingqiu was certain. Luo Binghe single-handedly beheaded the she-demon because, he was certain that, that supposedly weak disciple of his, caught his body with one arm, while the other held a spiritual weapon that ended the life of the demon. He remembers seeing Luo Binghe's furious expression, for some reason before his eyes completely shut down. That disciple of his wasn't at the very least, scared of the demon as he claimed to be while they were searching for its traces. And now, Luo Binghe is actively seeking death by angering Liu Qingge. That's exactly why, Luo Binghe's actions puzzled him, because Shen Qingqiu knows it himself that he always treated the child unfairly. So, for him to defend Shen Qingqiu at the risk of losing his life is just... surprising. It gives him a surprisingly pleasant feeling.

Shen Qingqiu, for the first time, in many years, genuinely smiled while his fan rests on his lips at the thought of his disciple's loyalty and respect for him. Of course, he was completely unaware of how his face lit up during his musings. However, his expression changed the moment he heard someone play the flute; its sound was comparable to the music of the damned cultivators, who use instruments to combat righteous practitioners with their demonic techniques. In other words, it was a terrible melody that almost made his ears bleed on how horrible it sounded.

*

Luo Binghe finds himself dangling on someone's hands after he was startled by someone who snatched his hand-made flute in his hands. He almost fell from where he was seating and he's certain that he would have broken his back had he fallen from this height (he's having his leisure time in the middle of the night at the top of an old tree by the lake inside Qing Jing's forest)

"Do you plan on cursing my entire peak, little beast?"

Luo Binghe looked up, eyes immediately lighting up at Shen Qingqiu's healthy countenance. He's all better! He exclaimed inside him in relief, before shamelessly beaming to the immortal — he forgot again that Shen Qingqiu doesn't exactly like him.

"Shizun!"

"This master can hear you just fine. You don't need to wake the slumbering residents of Qing Jing in the middle of a peaceful night." he heard him say before Shen Qingqiu threw him to the ground, after descending the tree. "Enlighten this master. What is this hideous thing?" Shen Qingqiu waved Luo Binghe's flute in front of his face. It is what it exactly looked like. An instrument. Nothing more, nothing less.

"A flute, Shizun." he answered honestly, but Shen Qingqiu frowned.

"You call this garbage flute? Are you playing with this master? My Qing Jing's instruments are always with quality. This thing, however, is far from having one."

Luo Binghe can hear the disprove in Shen Qingqiu's tone. Though, the immortal was not entirely mistaken about his flute being hideous, what can he do? The hallmasters doesn't allow him to borrow any of Qing Jing's equipment. They said he would sully it; thus Luo Binghe created his own so that he could have something to fiddle with during the time that he's alone.

"This disciple apologizes. I am not a master of craft, therefore, that was the only satisfying result that my skills allowed me to create."

Shen Qingqiu frowned. He was only asking. It's not like he's going to punish Luo Binghe for the ugly little thing so apologies are hardly necessary. Shen Qingqiu wanted to hit Luo Binghe's bowing head with the flute so that he will really have a reason to be afraid of him. Still, it appears that the little beast wasn't that skilled with his hands given the crappy state of the instrument that he claims to be a flute. The body wasn't even smoothed and the holes looked like they were forcibly dug by nails or something sharp. No wonder the sound that comes out of the object was baleful.

"Forget it. You're dismissed. Go back to your sleeping quarters."

Shen Qingqiu turned on his heel, with the flute in hand. He doesn't have any intention of giving it back to the beast. Luo Binghe either use Qing Jing's equipment or not play at all. He should forget about his little creation since it will probably end up in Shen Qingqiu's storage — or, he might feel generous and upgrade it like his personal equipments if he feels like it. There is no guarantee that he will do that, of course.

Shen Qingqiu placed the flute at his bedside table. He can finally have the rest that he deserves. The bed in Mu Qingfang's infirmary punishes his back like crazy — he's glad that he's back on the comforts of his own room. However, before Shen Qingqiu could fully take his outer robe off, he paused. That child, Luo Binghe, didn't he shunned him out of the dorms after his incident with Ning Yingying? Then, does that mean that when he ordered him to sleep in his quarters, did he just told him to go back and sleep on the stables? Ah, goddammit. And that stupid beast didn't even say anything!

With that, Shen Qingqiu stormed out of his house and headed straight to where Luo Binghe supposedly was. And the scene that greeted Shen Qingqiu there just made him swell with guilt even more. Luo Binghe, as he was ordered, was getting ready to sleep with a blanket woven from straws. Shen Qingqiu last saw these things on the streets. He didn't expect to see it on his peak because before he gave Luo Binghe access to the dorms, the beast still had a proper blanket and pillow despite sleeping in the stables.

"What — can I help you with something, Shizun?"

Luo Binghe looked genuinely startled in Shen Qingqiu's eyes. He watched the beast hide his little blanket from him the moment he noticed that Shen Qingqiu had his eyes on it, all the while turning red from shame. Luo Binghe must be embarrassed to show this place, and his living situation to anyone.

"Follow me." he said quietly, before turning his back guiltily. 

*

Shen Qingqiu opened the locks of his extension room. It was an unused space, meant to receive guests in the past; though it was left to rot after Shen Qingqiu became the peak lord since he doesn't really have anyone come over his place. Not that he'll welcome anyone, for that matter.

"From now on, you will use this space. However, you absolutely must not try anything funny or else, it will cost you dearly. Understand?"

Luo Binghe nodded dutifully, much to his satisfaction. 

"Good. Now, sleep. Just do the cleaning and tidying later. I do not wish to hear any noise — I need my sleep." Shen Qingqiu grumbled before shutting the door on Luo Binghe's face, who smiled candidly at the door. During their past reincarnations, Luo Binghe surmised that Shen Qingqiu was weak to deception. The immortal had always yielded to him in the past whenever he acted pitiful, a skill that he mastered overtime. Because truthfully, before Shen Qingqiu arrived at the stables, Luo Binghe had a perfectly clean, though old blanket in his side. However, the moment he felt the immortal's approaching qi, he hid both pillow and quilt under the stacks of hay — with much difficulty. Then after that, he took one of horse's covering and made it his own. And because of that, he's officially living beside his master's home.

"That was fairly easy," Luo Binghe dusted his newly acquired bed before completely slumping on his new found comfort. Despite all this, Luo Binghe still has a long way to go. After all, at the end of the day, he's still a demon's spawn and his Shizun will always remain as a righteous cultivator. If he wants him to accept him, then Luo Binghe would either have to erase the traces of his bloodline or just forcibly take Shen Qingqiu in his hands. The latter will never happen. Absolutely not. That's why, there's actually no need for him to weigh his options because, the only one he has, was the only route possible if he wants to coexist with Shen Qingqiu peacefully.

"I can undergo a special operation and remove this accursed bloodline altogether inside me without him knowing. It will be fine." he whispered in assurance, before completely succumbing to sleep.

Chapter Text

"Skim through it and learn the basics."

Shen Qingqiu tossed a new manual towards Luo Binghe, who easily caught the booklet. Luo Binghe obtained a new flute, courtesy of Shen Qingqiu's benevolence, and now this. He's not entirely interested in learning musical cultivation, but it seems as if Shen Qingqiu completely misunderstood him. Still, their current relationship is better than nothing. After all, it has been a week since Luo Binghe moved next to Shen Qingqiu's home, and the immortal has yet to kick him out. He suspects that Shen Qingqiu is keeping him around because of his cooking skills, which the immortal is obviously fond of, even if he says nothing about it. 

"Is there an ultimatum to learning this practice, Shizun?"

Shen Qingqiu leaned back on his chair, as if in deep thought, before giving him his reply.

"A year. I will give you a year to master the basics. If you manage to do so, I will personally fix your blasted handcrafted instrument as a reward. But if you fail," Shen Qingqiu walked towards his own door before pausing for a moment to lean against the door frame. "You will be punished for taking this master's benevolence for granted," he heard him say, before the immortal disappeared into the direction of Qiong Ding.

A year would be enough for Luo Binghe to master everything that's stated in the manual. He thought he would have something to look forward to after learning everything in the book. Personally, Luo Binghe was not a fan of reading. He would rather go into the field and experience the lesson personally, than bore himself into discerning every word scribed on a piece of paper. However, since Shen Qingqiu promised him a gift, there is no reason for Luo Binghe to hate this boorish way of learning.

"The index finger should be placed in the..." Luo Binghe positioned his fingers on the body of the flute. He's currently trying to mimic the image in the manual. "Raise your uppe — " before Luo Binghe could even imitate the proper form in the manual, the flute was snatched from his hands. He didn't notice the arrival of Ming Fan and his little gang. 

"So you would go as far as stealing now, huh."

Luo Binghe glared at Ming Fan with contempt. They really would not leave him alone, would they?

"Give it back." he said faintly, still calm. However, Ming Fan just proceeded to taunt him. The idiotic disciple truly did not come for peace. 

"You're done for this time, beast! This flute was one of Shizun's collection. Once I give this back to him, he will certainly kick you out for good!" 

Luo Binghe groaned, pissed. Shen Qingqiu himself gave him that flute. And that's the first object that he received from him, and that's why Luo Binghe was carefully using the instrument so that it wouldn't bruise or break. However, from the way that Ming Fan was holding it, he was afraid that the wood would be marred with blemishes.  Something that he was avoiding.

"A-Luo, don't fight them! I'll explain to Shizun that you didn't mean to take it, so don't provoke them anymore. You will end up beaten again! "

Luo Binghe did not even notice Ning Yingying's presence until she spoke out. However, going by her words, she already assumed that he had stolen the object—which he had not, in this case. So much for being a reliable senior, he murmured, before rising from the ground with a held-out hand.

"Do not make me repeat myself. Hand it over. "

Ming Fan laughed, mockingly.

"Or what? What can you do, beast? "

Luo Binghe's hands clenched into a tight fist.

"Grit your teeth."

That was Luo Binghe's last warning before Ming Fan flew a few yards. 

*

Shen Qingqiu leisurely walked throughout the expanse of his Qing Jing forest when a loud crash disturbed his hard-earned peace. He just came back from Qiong Ding, and he was trying to lighten his mood by coming here, but it seems that wherever he goes, trouble will always follow. 

"What do you all think you're doing? Making a scene in my Qing Jing, are you trying to test the limit of this master's patience?"

Shen Qingqiu finds a a crowd of his disciple kicking his most talented student. Luo Binghe was facedown, like a beaten pup before Shen Qingqiu. He doesn't know if the little beast was faking it given the visible wounds of his head disciple and his entourage. Shen Qingqiu was also aware that Luo Binghe was stronger than he let on. However, even if that was the case, the victim and the aggressor is fairly obvious.

"Shizun, that beast stole your possession! I was only trying to teach him a lesson!"

Ming Fan's loud voice struck a violent chord in Shen Qingqiu's ears. This is why he despise dealing with children. They're unreasonably loud and stupid.

"Please don't blame A-Luo, Shizun. He was just enticed by something he doesn't have. I will educate him thoroughly myself, so please don't punish him!"

Shen Qingqiu is even more puzzled now. Ning Yingying used to take Luo Binghe's side in the past doesn't she? And even if her statement appears as if she's still taking his side, Ning Yingying was subtly accusing Luo Binghe of thievery, which contradicted her usual treatment of the beast. The victim on the other hand, doesn't even defend his honor. Luo Binghe was too busy fixing the flute that he gave. The instrument that he gave him increased. The flute was divided into two.

"Shizun, this..." Luo Binghe raised the shattered flute in hand. "I can glue this back together. I promise I—"

Luo Binghe frantically tried to piece the flute back together. He looked desperate with his failed attempts— Shen Qingqiu felt pity.

"All of you, run fifty laps around the peak without rest. After that, go and write the rules of Qing Jing a hundred times in the reflection hall! No exceptions!" he said loudly, pertaining to Ning Yingying, who received the message that he wasn't too happy about her behavior.

"But Shizun, it wasn't our faul—"

Shen Qingqiu glared, before speaking. "Are you trying to teach thid master too like you did Luo Binghe?"

"I—no. This disciple understands. Asking Shizun for forgiveness. I was ignorant!"

Shen Qingqiu just turned his back in response.

"You're dismiss." he said, before completely leaving. However, he paused once he noticed that Luo Binghe was heading on another direction. The fool was joining Ming Fan's ranks. He probably assumed that he was also being punished.

"Luo Binghe, you're with me."

*

Luo Binghe followed Shen Qingqiu quietly. He's still trying to fix the ruined flute in futility. This was Shen Qingqiu's first gift to him and he cannot afford to lose it!

"Will you quit that? The grating is getting on this master's last nerve!"

Luo Binghe looked up. Though he knows that the immortal was already annoyed, he still can't help but try to fix what he's lost. He should have pummeled Ming Fan's group to the ground had he known that Shen Qingqiu's flute would fall victim in their hands.

"Give that here!" the immortal snatched the flute in his hands harshly, much to Luo Binghe's dismay. Shen Qingqiu disappeared inside his house for a minute, only to return later on with an ointment and... A new flute.

"Come here, little beast."

Luo Binghe obediently sat beside Shen Qingqiu. However, he was immediately taken aback when the immortal started applying the ointment in his skin. Luo Binghe was flustered.

"I—I can apply it myself, Shizun!" he exclaimed, rather loud because of the nervousness that's starting build inside his system. Luo Binghe tried to take the container from Shen Qingqiu's hands, but the immortal pettily raised the container higher, dodging his hold.

"This, is an expensive medicine. I do not want a single drop of it wasted and that's exactly why I'm the one applying it despite your dirty appearance." Shen Qingqiu said, as he continued to apply the medicine on Luo Binghe's wounds. Luo Binghe on the other hand, just surrendered to his fate and was already beet red before Shen Qingqiu even finished his business with bruises. 

"You're patched up. Now, go and clean yourself." 

Shen Qingqiu dismissed him nonchalantly, as if he didn't just embarrass Luo Binghe's whole existence. He, on the other hand, obediently obeyed. Luo Binghe hurriedly headed to the washroom but halted once Shen Qingqiu fired an unexpected question. 

"Luo Binghe, do you wish to partake on the conference that will be held next year?" 

Luo Binghe froze on the spot. The conference. If he wasn't mistaken, that was the trigger to activating his lineage. That was also the event that led Shen Qingqiu to completely severe his ties with him. 

"No. This disciple is still unworthy to attend such prestigious event. I am afraid I am still lacking. Forgive me for disappointing Shizun." 

He already decided that he will not touch his cursed bloodline in this life. That's why, there is no reason for him to participate in that forsaken conference. He doesn't wish to repeat history. Luo Binghe doesn't want to lose Shen Qingqiu's trust again. 

"Hm. Very well. Then just continue learning the manual that I gave you. I expect your improvement, the moment I come out of seclusion."

With that, Shen Qingqiu turned on his heel and left. Luo Binghe was his most promising student. If he himself thinks that he's incapable of surviving the conference, then Shen Qingqiu will not be sending anyone to participate. After all, he's not one to chase glory so he doesn't really whether his disciples participates or not. He's just tying Qing Jing loose ends before going into seclusion. He will be staying inside the caves for a year, after all.

Chapter Text

Shen Qingqiu settled himself into his newly chosen cave. He entered seclusion six months ago, under Mu Qingfang's guidance. The healer suggested that he force his own breakthrough because it might stabilize the violent run of his qi. However, even without Mu Qingfang's advice, Shen Qingqiu knew that he needed to fix the flow of his own qi, which had gone erratic during his last excursion with his disciples. He knows his body better than anyone. 

Shen Qingqiu huffed, a soft sigj escaping his lips. Though it has been nearly half a year, he has yet to see any progress with his breakthrough. Still, he refused to give up hope. In the end, he still has six months to fix and find the root of his problems. 

With that in mind, Shen Qingqiu started to busy himself with unpacking the few necessities that he had brought with him months ago for hygienic purposes, until the entire subterrane rumbled. Shen Qingqiu's brows knitted together. He daftly assumed that he was the only one cultivating during this time. That's why he did not bother to check the whole terrain for another presence. But given the thunderous sound moments ago, it seems that he was mistaken. Even so, that isn't the issue. Shen Qingqiu's current dilemma consists of whether to search for the source of the sound, and probably help whoever needs his aid, or just ignore the incident altogether because he isn't even certain if the one who caused the entire cavern to shake was sane. After all, Shen Qingqiu was the most familiar with the nature of qi deviations, and the energy that was blasted awhile ago suggests that the owner was facing the said difficulties. 

"Ah, what a pain."

Though reluctant, Shen Qingqiu begrudgingly headed for the traces of the distorted qi quietly. He was light on his feet so that he wouldn't startle whoever was facing his daily dose of peril. However, when he reached the innermost part of the cave, it was empty. The walls of the cave, however, were marred with cuts and a number of slashes. Shen Qingqiu approached the spot where the spiritual sword left its mark.

"Cheng Luan," he said confidently. He had always crossed swords with Liu Qingge in the past, which caused him to recognize the marks left by the spiritual blade of his barbaric martial brother. He knew of the weapon's nature, and Shen Qingqiu could not help but grimace at the realization. Liu Qingge was the one qi deviating. 

Shen Qingqiu debated between searching for the war god or leaving the caves and asking for help because he is aware that he will not be able to take a Liu Qingge who's in an aggressive state. He can barely defeat him when he's normal. What more when he's feral? He wouldn't dare take chances. 

Deciding that the latter would give them both a higher chance at surviving, Shen Qingqiu turned his back on the cracked walls of the cave. He decided to drag Yue Qingyuan or anyone able-bodied to restrain and rescue a rampaging Liu Qingge. However, before he could take another step, a menacing blade cut through the side of his cheek. It appears that Liu Qingge found him first before he could even find him. 

Shen Qingqiu grimaced at the sight of Liu Qingge's manic state. He doesn't know if he can still recognize him given that he just tried to separate Shen Qingqiu's head from his neck, but missed.

"What a foolish man you are, shidi." He said, annoyed. However, it appears that even Shen Qingqiu has no time to express his disappointment in the war god because Liu Qingge just charged towards him at the speed of light. Shen Qingqiu flew a few feet from where he originally stood, completely caught off guard by Liu Qingge's assault. 

The immortal stood up with much difficulty, feeling the ache in his back. If he did not channel enough qi to support his spine, it would no doubt crack under the pressure of hitting the walls of the cave. He dusted his robes off before drawing Xiu Ya and taking a stance to defend himself from Liu Qingge, who looked as if he'd been waiting for this day to butcher Shen Qingqiu. He's still contemplating whether he should draw Liu Qingge out of the caves to Qiong Ding and hope that Yue Qingyuan is around, or try his luck and stop the stupid brute from damaging his own system further.

Shen Qingqiu is caught between his want to believe in Yue Qingyuan's presence and his worry that he might not be there to assist him as in the past. And if Yue Qingyuan were to falter for any reason, Shen Qingqiu would inevitably bring a lunatic there, putting the disciples of Qiong Ding in peril.

"Guess it would either be you or me, shidi." He muttered before parrying Liu Qingge's unrelenting attacks with his own blade. Shen Qingqiu was pushed back with every heavy strike that Liu Qingge delivers. He can feel his arms go numb everytime he tries to deflect Cheng Luan with his blade.

Shen Qingqiu yelled as their swords collided once more, both vibrating from the qi that was transmitted through their weapons. "Come back to your senses, Liu Qingge!" He screamed in desperation. There aren't any plants or trees to be found inside this cave, so Shen Qingqiu can't truly employ his dirty techniques, as Liu Qingge likes to call them. He is therefore, greatly disadvantaged. But that doesn't mean he will stand by idly, and allow himself to be slaughtered by this bumbling thug who has no idea what he's doing.

"Brace yourself, shidi. This will be rough." he announced, before charging towards Liu Qingge, who did not disappoint his expectations, because the brute himself was more than eager to rush forward in attack. Shen Qingqiu, on the other hand, deftly avoids Liu Qingge's direct attack, leaving the war god vulnerable for only a few seconds. If there's anything that he has an advantage in, it's his intelligence— because Liu Qingge right now is fighting him with instincts alone; thus, his attacks that used to be firm and polished are now nothing but honest and easily deflected assaults because of how obvious they were. Even so, it doesn't excuse the fact that Shen Qingqiu was already exhausted from defending himself from dying. So, with his remaining strength, Shen Qingqiu gathered his remaining qi and struck Liu Qingge's chest with it, in hopes of calming the raging energy of the brute. Which he thinks he succeeded in doing because Liu Qingge went limp in his arms. Shen Qingqiu breathed a sigh of relief. However, before he could rejoice any further, the violent ringing in his head came back, which made him stumble — unable to evade or deflect Liu Qingge's upcoming blow.  

Blood began to stream out of Shen Qingqiu's chest like a spring river, and he was powerless to stop it. The immortal struggled desperately to close the hole by trying to halt the bloodflow with his hands. Shen Qingqiu stumbled before collapsing to the ground, his mouth being dripped with blood. As Cheng Luan clanged by his side, he silently cursed his luck. Then everything turned black as Shen Qingqiu's vision was overwhelmed with fog.

[ System Possession: SUCCESS ]

[ Beginning Body Reconstruction ] 

Chapter Text

Luo Binghe glared at the squadron of demons that stood before him — or should he say, before the entrance of Qiong Ding's great hall. He knew of Shang Qinghua's betrayal a long time ago. After all, he's a regressor. He already knew of things that were to happen, to occur. But he still did nothing to stop it, because he knew better than to meddle with the fates of numerous humans. If the disciples who were meant to die during the attack, and the demons who were killed in retribution to the fallen lived, those who sits leisurely in heaven will not stay idle. That's why, Luo Binghe did not bother to warn anyone. Besides, it's not like they're significant to him. Their deaths would barely affect him but he will not allow them to take a step further inside the sect because his precious Shizun, Shen Qingqiu, will be coming out of seclusion today. 

"I'm afraid Cang Qiong's hospitality only extends up to this point."

The disciples of Qiong Ding, along with some of Qing Jing, are cowering in fear. He can infer that none of them had actually faced a humanoid demon on their own in its entirety, given their reaction. Cang Qiong's disciples, after all, had always relied on their masters in slaying evil, and when the infamous war god was still alive, demons barely graced humans with their presence for fear that they would find themselves at the mercy of the man's blade. But today will mark the end of that because Shen Qingqiu will accept responsibility for Liu Qingge's death once Shang Qinghua allegedly discovers his body in the caverns following the attack, even though the rat was not in seclusion. As for the reason of how everyone readily believed Shang Qinghua's subtle implications of Shen Qingqiu's fratricide despite being more suspicious than the man, it was beyond Luo Binghe.

"Shut your mouth, worthless cultivator! We did not come here to be stopped by you!" Luo Binghe recognized the incensed elder. It was the elder demon that he pummeled in the past, despite having little to no knowledge of how to combat a skilled warrior.

"Enough. We did not come here to cause a ruckus either," Sha Hualing emerged from the crowd of demons. However, contrary to Luo Binghe's memory of her, she appeared to be more restrained and mature. Even her wild demeanor changed to a more calm one. "... we did not necessarily come here to incite war with cultivators. Hence, I suggest you keep your rage in line, Elder. "

Sha Hualing's stern scolding made the elder demon retreat in shame. Luo Binghe, however, frowned. This Sha Hualing, was far from the one he knew. Sha Hualing's mature disposition aside, she was far from being calm in the past. Even her clothing changed into something that only a demon priestess wears — though the revealing elements of the woman's garments were not removed. It looks like a modified version of the priestess outfit that lives in the depths of the demon realm's temple.

"And if not for trouble, then what exactly do you expect to accomplish by coming here?"

Cang Qiong's disciples started to wildly cheer. However, Luo Binghe can't find it in himself to be happy. Because the first person who's not supposed to be alive is standing right before him right now.

"How can you rush like an unscrupulous brute, Shidi? I told you to wait for this master, didn't I?"

Luo Binghe stood frozen in his spot. Not only was Liu Qingge alive, but it also appears as if the war god and his Shizun were on good terms, like old friends. Luo Binghe frowned at the strangeness of the events that were occurring before him. He frowned even more when Shen Qingqiu leaned in close — too close for comfort, if he must add.

"Hualing proposes a three-round match. Winner takes all." She said confidently, as she continued, "If I were to win," Sha Hualing paused, her eyes squinting towards Shen Qingqiu's direction, "Immortal Master Shen would be mine for the taking."

*

It was done merely out of impulse. Maybe he was just too overwhelmed by the barrage of unfortunate events, or maybe he was just a bit angry at the sight of Shen Qingqiu being comfortable with a supposedly dead man. However, one thing is for certain, and that is he just caught Sha Hualing and her fellow demons' ire when he callously threw his sword at her feet; an action that suggests challenge the moment she announced that she would be taking Shen Qingqiu as her price. Sha Hualing was supposed to ask for Qiong Ding's plaque, not Shen Qingqiu's life. Luo Binghe doesn't know what triggered this huge change. But he will do anything to find it out.

"Insolent."

Luo Binghe stepped forward. Sha Hualing, for her part, simply smiled, her eyes mocking Luo Binghe's attempt to intimidate."How dare you try to covet someone who's not yours to take?"

He made a pledge to himself that he wouldn't let Shen Qingqiu down or do anything to harm him in this life. Luo Binghe will do whatever it takes, as long as it is within his power, to ensure that Shen Qingqiu does not suffer during the course of their lives. However, this vow is jeopardized by Sha Hualing's desire to possess his Shizun. Therefore, Luo Binghe would do everything it took to eliminate her and her soldiers.

"You have such an energetic devotee, Master Shen." A false amusement laced Sha Hualing's remark. The demoness unearthed Zheng Yang from the ground. Her eyes glinted with malice as she threw the sword towards Luo Binghe, who caught the weapon with ease. "Very well. It will be just you and me." Sha Hualing's coat fell against the ground with a small thump. The demons around the dame cheered as she approached the center stage, a whip appearing in her hand.

"Since you were confident enough to insult my proposal, then come. If you lose to me, you will die."

Luo Binghe could hear the sternness in Sha Hualing's voice. Being a nameless cultivator, he was perfectly aware that the saintess was upset by his unannounced meddling. However, today should serve as a good reminder to her to not underestimate everyone she meets because Luo Binghe, whose cultivation of the righteous path was unharmed, is not Sha Hualing's match. However, Luo Binghe did not anticipate Liu Qingge's sudden encroachment.

"Do you truly believe that I will allow this drivel to happen right before me?"

Luo Binghe rolled his eyes in annoyance. But before he could utter a word of advice (disdain) to the war god, Shen Qingqiu held Liu Qingge by the shoulder to stop him from advancing further.

" You will allow it," Shen Qingqiu's fan snapped open, concealing the immortal's entire expression. Luo Binghe could only see the look of amusement in Shen Qingqiu's eyes as the immortal's gaze fell on him, but his interest was immediately removed when Liu Qingge squirmed under Shen Qingqiu's grasp in an attempt to escape. 

"That," Shen Qingqiu pointed to Luo Binghe's direction, "... is my disciple. I will have the final say on whether he participates or not. It is in Cang Qiong's rules that you cannot meddle with a disciple from another peak if their master is present. That's why you will stay put. Otherwise, I will teach you myself about our sect's rules from bottom to the top. "

*

Sha Hualing's skills and abilities were stronger than before. The demon saintess would have annihilated Liu Mingyan if history had repeated itself. Although her actions were still erratic, Sha Hualing was becoming more restrained and precise with each strike. However, she was not the only one who improved over the course of the years. Luo Binghe himself trained in secrecy to strengthen and advance his own ability so that he wouldn't need half of his bloodline to stay alive.

Every blow that Sha Hualing delivered, Luo Binghe parried. Their exchange was tiring. He will admit. Being born as a demon has its perks. Luo Binghe's stamina and physique is extremely far from Sha Hualing's. However, his hardwork and talent made up for the things that he lacked. Luo Binghe returned every assault with equal power, if not more. Sha Hualing was unrelenting despite receiving a number of his blows. Her whip had long left her side and she's fighting Luo Binghe with bare hands.

Luo Binghe can audibly hear the cheers from the sideline because his ears are still ringing after being squared by Sha Hualing, who's also panting at the edge of the platform. However, he was fully aware of the frightened and apprehensive look coming from Shen Qingqiu's direction and was fixed behind him. In the past, his Shizun would never regard him in such a manner. Pity was already hard to squeeze out from the immortal, so what more of worry? If the recipient had been Ning Yingying, he would have understood, but he is not her.

"You dare be distracted while facing me? I'll teach you a lesson!"

In the blink of an eye, the demon saintess appeared right before Luo Binghe whose reaction time was much slower than she. Sha Hualing delivered the first blow it reached Luo Binghe who spew a mouthful of blood upon taking the hit, yet Sha Hualing did not relent with her assault. Still, no matter her improvement, Luo Binghe still has thousands of years of experience in his arsenal after having to live a number of lives.

Sha Hualing's streak was intercepted by Luo Binghe, who then radically altered the course of their fight by grabbing her arm with unremitting force and shattering it. Sha Hualing writhed in pain, tears welling up at the rims of her eyelids. Succeeding in making Sha Hualing go down in her knees, Luo Binghe did not waste another second and went for his blade—threatening to take Sha Hualing's life who surrendered with gritted teeth. 

"This should teach you a lesson. Do not chew more than you can swallow." 

extra:

Sha Hualing knelt before a glass coffin with reverence. Three times she bowed and kissed the lid with veneration before speaking in regret while her hands caressed the top of the casket carefully as if she's afraid to mar the object intended for the dead.

"I was unable to retrieve the vessel that possessed your soul. Forgive this incompetent one, Empress. I will be certain to take Master Shen from that blasted mountain once chance presents itself." She said before turning her back to leave, albeit the shattering of the glass made her abruptly glance back to the altar. The sleeping figure that had slept in the depths of the Holy Mausoleum of the Demon Realm awoke. Numerous pieces of the casket's lid, which acts as its covering, were scattered at her feet. Blazing emerald and crimson eyes stared at Sha Hualing in confusion and bewilderment as she promptly dropped to her knees. The demon saintess observed as the royal touched his own chest as if looking for something that should have been there as he examined his body.

"Where am I?" 

Sha Hualing only smiled, still in shock, but she was able to quickly regain her composure and respond to the question posed by the person she had always admired.

"It is my greatest joy to witness your revival, Empress. You are inside the Holy Mausoleum; the only sacred place in our land."

Chapter Text

Shen Qingqiu has changed. After the demon Invasion incident, the immortal does not call nor seek his presence—not that he did before going into seclusion, but Shen Qingqiu used to order him around to cook for him and though brief, Luo Binghe had been constantly sought after by the immortal in order to improve his musical skills that Shen Qingqiu described as the singing of a screeching death rite bird, an ancient guardian demon of the Holy Mauseleoum. It was a mystery to him how his Shizun learned about the thing that Luo Binghe had only seen once. However, this doesn't change the fact that Luo Binghe used to be closer to Shen Qingqiu before he went into seclusion. But now, it almost seems as if he was a disciple who brings plagued to his own master. Shen Qingqiu avoided him, yet Luo Binghe witnessed him reprimanding Ming Fan for dumping his tasks on him, something that Shen Qingqiu used to ignore.

And if that wasn't bizarre enough, Shen Qingqiu and Liu Qingge's tense relationship began to mend, which caused the immortal to frequently vanish because of joint missions with the war god. Luo Binghe once sought to strike up a conversation with Shen Qingqiu regarding his pledge to grasp the fundamentals of musical cultivation. He had intended to fulfill his wish and accompany Shen Qingqiu on a mission by himself, but he was denied. Shen Qingqiu was noticeably perplexed when he mentioned the promise made by the immortal before going into seclusion. Even so, Luo Binghe dismissed it, but the expression that Shen Qingqiu wore that day weighed heavily on his heart.

"Ha! You are wasting your time inside this rotten sect where you are unwanted and despised. "

Meng Mo's appearance is another issue that Luo Binghe is currently dealing with. He is still furious because his personal enchantments were insufficient to repel the dream demon even though he previously expected the demon to infest his mind like the parasite he is after the invasion. He was positive that the runes he employed were analogous to Shen Qingqiu's previous enchantments. He is, however, lost of what went wrong with his own craft for it to fail to perform its magic like Shen Qingqiu's did.

"You will not be able to run your filthy mouth once I'm done searching for the final ingredient that can help me extract and carve my own core. So if you want to stay alive for a longer time, I suggest you keep your drivel shut. "

Luo Binghe had been going down the mountain and venturing far beyond the boundaries of the human realm in order to search for the ingredients that could help him keep his life while removing his own core. He already steeled his mind to remove the lingering connection that he has with his heritage before the conference starts so that history would not be able to repeat itself. Luo Binghe will not allow Shen Qingqiu to once more cast him into the depths of that dreadful nothingness, because despite Luo Binghe's reverence for the immortal, Xin Mo's corruption is not something that he underestimates. Luo Binghe is aware that once the sword enters his mind, he won't be able to distinguish anything on his path and will only have regrets if he allows himself to be flung back into the abyss. He promised to protect Shen Qingqiu this time, and he intends to uphold his word even if it means that he has to endanger his own life by undergoing an unheard method of separating his own cultivation. 

Meng Mo's response to his irate remark was mocking, "I have never seen someone as foolish as you in my entire life," while Luo Binghe merely rolled his eyes. Meng Mo will need to find another compatible host in order to survive after Luo Binghe's core is removed. That must be the source of the demon's frustration. Although reasonable, it's not really Luo Binghe's concern.

"Depriving yourself with the ability that can help you avenge your real master, you really are stupid." 

Luo Binghe's forehead creased with confusion. What does Meng Mo mean? 

"Oh my! This stupid disciple does not even know that his master was replaced? " The erratic beating of his heart echoed with dream demon's laughter. Meng Mo specializes in deception. Meng Mo is simply trying to deceive him. After all, there is no doubt that Shen Qingqiu is alive. Luo Binghe always saw him walk throughout Qing Jing and he caught a glimpse of him every morning, so there was no reason for him to believe the words of a demon.

"No, that is incorrect. You have known for quite some time that your master is not truly your master. But you're too afraid to test your suspicions, am I right? "

Luo Binghe trembled in trepidation.

"Your words have no effect on me, demon. Try as you might, you will never deceive me!" he screamed before erecting a wall to separate his mind from Meng Mo's influence. Shen Qingqiu is alive. Even if he changed so much, Luo Binghe does not believe that his Shizun is gone.

However, Meng Mo's taunts were not easily removed. Despite Luo Binghe's refusal to acknowledge the dream demon's words, he still went on his way to confirm that the Shen Qingqiu in his Shizun's dwelling, is the Shen Qingqiu that he knows.

Mindlessly brewing a pot of tea, Luo Binghe headed inside the immortal's home without as much of a knock. He found the immortal lazily sprawled before the office table with scattered scrolls at his feet, disheveled and unkempt. 

"Shizun, I have brought you tea." 

*

The abrupt voice caused Shen Qingqiu to jump in shock. He has been cursing the mound of scrolls that An Ding and Qiong Ding sent to Qing Jing this morning. He did not expect that a villain would have to work on so many things! He initially thought that he only needed to be mean to the protagonist (according to the system), not become a corporate slave! Everyday, he's bombarded with different problems from different peaks, and it's honestly taxing on him since he has to do his job. Because if he were to ditch it, Cang Qiong would be faced with problems. And in accordance with the cursed literature of Airplane, the Sect won't perish until Luo Binghe begins his retaliation, which he's attempting to stop. He's working hard to keep the Sect afloat while also hatching plans to ensure his own survival while controlling the evil vessel that he possessed named, Shen Qingqiu. However, the amount of labor that was put on the scum villain is the definition of injustice in and of itself! He finds it amazing that Shen Qingqiu, a spoilt, opulent brat, could carry such a hefty load all by himself for so long. I suppose bad guys still have their own roles to fulfill other than being mean

"Just leave it on the floor." he said, exhausted. Shen Qingqiu could hear the clutter of the teacup and the pot as the disciple followed his words. He does not have time to mind the villain's students because he has to finish everything that was sent to his peak at nightfall. 

"Shizun, are you throwing everything that is in here?" 

Shen Qingqiu finally looked up. He thought that the disciple left but it appears that the little one is set on bothering him since he's even scattering the useless stuffs for burning that he gathered inside the immortal's office. 

"Why else would it be inside the garbage basket?"

*

Luo Binghe flinched. He's glad that he's had his back turned from the immortal. He can feel his face contort at the immortal's response. 

"Even your flute?" he asked silently, while gripping the instrument that was once confiscated by the immortal from him. 

"It's not working perfectly anyway. A defect. What use do I have for broken things? Better to rid of it quickly since it's only taking space when it's not of any use." Shen Qingqiu said, in a matter of fact tone. However, the instrument in Luo Binghe's hand was not Shen Qingqiu's, but his. Moreover, if the one behind him was truly his Shen Qingqiu, the immortal would find it offensive that he regarded his sorry of an instrument as something that was owned by the immortal. 

Was Meng Mo speaking the truth then? 

"Right. Of course, imperfect things must be disposed of. Stupid of this disciple to think otherwise." 

If so, where... and what happened to his beloved Shizun? And who's the one who took over his master's place? 

*

Shen Qingqiu traced the eyes that stares back at him in the mirror. Red and green. His left eye, he knew was his. But the one in his right, he is not familiar at all—except he has a guess about the identity of the owner of the very same eyes that was planted in his supposedly dead body. 

"I should be dead," he muttered to himself as he closed his eyes, relishing the relaxing feeling brought by Sha Hualing's masterful hands. The priestess had been extremely dedicated on serving him and fixing his hair and make-up ever since he rose from slumber. 

"Please do not speak of death so lightly, Empress. We cannot possibly survive another decade without royalty in our lands," she said softly, before pinning another jewelry in his hair. "The demons will weep if you die. That's why even if we don't revere any Gods, this humble one still prays for your safety all the time." 

Shen Qingqiu chuckled, almost fondly. He doesn't hate demons. In fact, he came to like them these past few days because despite the malicious speculations about their race, demons knows respect. That's why, Shen Qingqiu does not discriminate. However, it is true that he had slain a number of them in the past, for the sake of duty. He was a cultivator and it was natural for him to kill them and protect humans. Humans who errs more than demons ever does. Sha Hualing and her clan especially never leaves his side. They had been genuine with their emotions with him whether it's positive or negative and Shen Qingqiu appreciates that. The immortal values honesty and loyalty more than anything in his life. 

"Right. But you do not have to worry. After all, the runes engrave in my body will certainly keep me alive for a long time." 

Shen Qingqiu traced the runic alphabets that tattooed the skin of his chest. He was definitely killed by Liu Qingge that day. The feeling of Cheng Luan burying itself in his chest was still vivid that it made him shiver everytime he thinks about it. However, for some reasons, his soul was sucked into an entombed royalty of the demon realm who bears similar name, visage, and weapon. Shen Qingqiu woke up inside a strangely stitched, yet perfect body that wears a wedding robe with a sheathed Xiu Ya above his chest. Beside him however, lies a perfectly dead skeleton who wears the same robe as his, but with a different, yet familiar blade above him. 

Little beast, I have been so right about you. 

Chapter Text

To long for the embrace of the one you loathe, what could be more confusing than that?

Luo Binghe did not know the answer to that—until he went and dug his own grave by digging the past and imagining a future, a better future with the man whom he hacked.

Ever since he found the archives, Luo Binghe mulled over the fate of the ones who had long passed. He wondered, and wondered, over and over again. Would everything be different if he knew of their previous destiny? Or would Shen Qingqiu's treatment with him be any different if the immortal was not aware of the fate of the ones before them? Luo Binghe questioned himself for a number of times, but arriving at an answer proved to be quite hard.

Shen Qingqiu was once his challenge. An immovable mountain who didn't bend to his will until the immortal's last breath. He was unassailable and confident, and Luo Binghe wanted to tear him down to pieces and make him submit to his will, but Shen Qingqiu never did. The immortal remained beautifully cruel to him until the end of his time. Shen Qingqiu never deigned him the pleasure of having power over his person even during his final moments.

He was unapologetic of everything. Shen Qingqiu never regretted any of the action he took against everyone who antagonized him in this life. Shen Qingqiu perfectly mirrored the Outcasted Immortal, but he was more cruel compared to the benign beau whom Meng Mo admired. Even so, Luo Binghe found comfort in that. Because this only means that Shen Qingqiu is not the same person as the one whom Meng Mo described. Despite the possibility of them being the reincarnation of the two, Luo Binghe still hated the idea that Shen Qingqiu's cruelty to him was something pre-ordained, something the immortal has no control over. He doesn't want to believe that their relationship was damned right from the very start. Luo Binghe does not wish to admit that even after millennia had passed, he and him are still bound by the very same curse that ended the lives of those before them. That's why, he chose to think that everything that has sullied their bond was Shen Qingqiu's choice. Luo Binghe would rather believe the evil in his deceased master than admit the damnation that loomed above their heads before they were even born.

However, Luo Binghe failed to predict the depths of the loneliness that his decrepit soul felt. He was naive of the pain that comes after the loss of someone who has never been his. Every day, he felt as if he's been lying on the same thorny bed he weaved for himself. There was not a minute where he's not bombarded with thoughts of what could have been if he was kinder. If he was patient. If he was more of a human than a beast that Shen Qingqiu claimed him to be. Luo Binghe imagined a million of things with Shen Qingqiu in mind; only for all of it to end in bitter tragedy. There was no happy ending. Satisfaction was always denied. No matter how much he think about it, aren't they too tragic to be called as fated love?

"Star crossed lovers? What a fancy name to hide a destiny doomed before it even began!"

Luo Binghe retold the tale of the two to Sha Hualing who only scoffed at him with derision. She was right, though. There is nothing romantic in their tale. It was foolish and ugly. And it was certainly something that was not meant to happen. Still, Luo Binghe could not stop the invincible longing inside him.

He wanted to see Shen Qingqiu. He wanted to hear his voice. He wanted him to look at him the same way the man in his dream does. It was a maddening desire. A thirst that can never be quenched because the recipient of his twisted affection now lies six feet under with missing limbs and a torn heart. And now, he understands. Luo Binghe, after decades of torturing and humiliating his own master finally understood.

He can never handle the ruination of their relationship on his own.

Shen Qingqiu was meant to be his. And Luo Binghe was meant to be with the man he loathed more than anyone in his life.

"Sometimes, demons confuses love with hate. And that is our biggest err. Because compared to humans, we can never forgive, unless we forget. It's a flaw. But it's an honest mistake." 

Luo Binghe heaved a sigh, while throwing Sha Hualing a confused look. The priestess was his companion until she decided to leave the position he granted beside him for the temple of the realm. In the end, Sha Hualing still chose her previous role. To be the sacred and revered saintess of their realm. The holy maiden deemed her love and adoration for Luo Binghe in the past as something fleeting—an immature desire to prove herself to be worthy of something as beautiful and dangerous as love. 

"But it is the greatest thing we can offer. After all, we cannot truly confuse love with hate, if we never loved the ones whom we hated. Because that's the thing with us demon's isn't?" there was an underlying meaning behind Sha Hualing's words. However, Luo Binghe was unable to accurately point out the root of the sadness that laced her calm and collected tone. The turbulence in the saintess's eyes bothered him for currently, the expression that she wears was something that he had never seen. Sha Hualing looked defeated and resigned. And it pains him to see her in her current state despite the fact that the woman left his side. After all, Sha Hualing was not just Luo Binghe's wife once. Sha Hualing was also a friend. A very good one at that. She was also a comrade whom he can trust to have his back at any battlefield, in any given time. That's why, it breaks him to see her extremely shattered by something that she would probably never speak about. "We never feel betrayed unless we never trusted the ones who buried the dagger in our hearts."

The ringing in Luo Binghe's head stopped. Hate. He is familiar with the word, because all his life, that was the only thing that he felt towards the man who denied him the chance to prove himself worthy of affection and love. Luo Binghe despised Shen Qingqiu. And the latter felt the same. Their relationship can be described with a single world, and that was hate. There was no love in that. No affection. Nothing at all. Because, the moment Shen Qingqiu decided to repay the trust and admiration that he felt for him with viciousness, there was no going back. There was no way their bond could have persisted under the rotten connection that formed in between them. Luo Binghe paid Shen Qingqiu his dues. He returned his cruelties tenfolds, and not even once, did he regret doing so. 

But sometimes, he wondered. If Shen Qingqiu loved him even for a bit, would he have devoted everything he has for the meager attention that he threw him? 

There was no way to answer his question. However, thanks to that, another question was answered. Luo Binghe longed to be loved by him. There is no excusing that now because otherwise, he would not be asking himself of the very same what ifs. 

"Sha Hualing, can you do me a final favor?" 

extra:

Luo Binghe was immortal. He was omnipotent, until he chose to stop being one. 

With Meng Mo's extensive knowledge of demonic rituals, along with Sha Hualing's excellent skills to perform her ancestors rites properly, Luo Binghe was able to restore Shen Qingqiu's desecrated body to its original state. Shen Qingqiu's beauty now will never fade. 

Unblemished and perfectly molded, the scars of his cruelties disappeared, but the stitches still remained. 

"Shizun..." 

A cold, wrinkled hand, caressed Shen Qingqiu's unmoving face. The last missing piece of the immortal's body was finally replaced. 

"This is a rather pathetic end for someone who hated the very same tale where the lovers died together in each other's embrace." Luo Binghe heard Meng Mo comment in a soft tone, without any hint of sarcasm or mock in his voice. He originally thought that the dream demon would berate him for his choice. It appears that he was once again, wrong.

"You think so?" he asked smiling, before engulfing Shen Qingqiu's dead body in a cold embrace, all the while disappearing into the darkness of their tomb. 

"If you are going to die with him anyway, then you shouldn't have killed him in the first place, Junshang."

Shen Qingqiu

Lord of Qing Jing Peak

Empress of Two Realms

Master of the Four Great Arts

Luo Binghe

Emperor of Two Realms

Conqueror of Abyss

Master of the Cursed Blade

Chapter Text

The Immortal Alliance Conference.

After every seven years, the great sects, along with the lower ones have the chance to earn prestige themselves through competition. A battle to prove the might of their disciples, they raised themselves in a contest to chase and slay monsters without the aid of their masters.  This competition is known far and wide. Every prestigious individual comes to watch and entertain themselves, but humans are not the only ones who’s knowledgeable of this event.

Demons. The demon kind are aware of the said competition. After all, this event can give them a once in a lifetime chance to slay every promising cultivator in land. Unfortunately for them, the security of the conference was never lacking; and even if it is, currently, the ones residing in the north and the east were not allowed to harm humans, especially cultivators. Not that they are interested in doing so, but the current ruler announced a new law that will punish them if they dare to betray the orders of the highest royal that currently exists in their land.

“Bring him to me, with or without injury as long he’s breathing.”

“As you wish.”

Mobei-jun disappeared with the closing of the door. Shen Jiu heard from the rat, the one he knew was suspicious all along, Shang Qinghua, that someone was residing in his body. Someone foreign, apparently. He told him that the stranger was miraculously close and respected by everyone in the sect, especially by his self-proclaimed rival, Liu Qingge. It also appears that everyone doesn’t find the current Shen Qingqiu suspicious, even Yue Qingyuan. Well, for the record, he wasn’t really close with any of them so it would be mere luck if one of them noticed that Shen Qingqiu is no longer Shen Qingqiu. However, Luo Binghe is different. That impostor can have his position and everything he worked hard for, but not his disciple. Luo Binghe still owes him an explanation and until he answers Shen Qingqiu’s questions, he will remain only his.

“Empress, why that specific discple? You have several apprentices in your peak, who are more proper and disciplined so why take the unruly brat?”

Sha Hualing doesn’t mask her distaste for Luo Binghe. Only recently did Shen Qingqiu find out about the crushing defeat of the saintess against his disciple. The immortal only chuckled in response to the demoness’s grumbling. He knows that she hates Luo Binghe because of the outcome of the duel that she experienced against him, and Shen Qingqiu is strangely proud of Luo Binghe’s victory.

“The other children of my peak will not survive this realm. Besides, I have already designed the future of every scholar in Qing Jing to my liking. If they adhere to my teaching, they are already guaranteed to succeed.”

Before heading inside the Lingxi Caves, Luo Binghe was the only one in his peak whose future is undetermined. Shen Qingqiu was planning to send the child to Bai Zhan and become its successor because of his prowess, but things came down unexpectedly wrong. Shen Qingqiu died in an attempt to save Liu Qingge and woke up inside a coffin beside his rotting student.

“But Luo Binghe is different. He is destined to be beside this Empress.” Shen Jiu leisurely fan himself, a genuine smile etched in his face. “Following fate is not a bad thing after all.”

Fate.

Shen Jiu thought for the first time that such a thing was a good thing. However, this belief of his did not last. Mobei-jun came back empty handed. Shen Jiu struck both master and servant for their failings, Shang Qinghua scrambled on his feet to make yet another excuse in order to placate the anger that’s brewing inside him.

“It was out of our control. The abyss opened and your impostor appeared out of nowhere. We had no way of saving Luo Binghe from his hands because cultivators are also approaching the area!”

Shen Jiu’s grip on his war fan tightened even more. Luo Binghe was cast away by the fake into the abyss using his face. The last memory of his disciple was being abandoned by his own master because of his ancestry—the realization made Shen Jiu even more livid.

“You should have killed him then.” He said silently, sounding crueler than ever. “This world doesn’t need two of me. If his death would prevent my disciple’s demise, then you should have done it!” Shang Qinghua visibly flinched. Shen Jiu, however, paid his fear no mind. Everything went down as fated. As scribed on the archive of Qing Jing, he, being the reincarnation of that immortal was meant to lose everything he has, every person he cherishes and will ever come to cherish. Shen Jiu shouldn’t have celebrated too soon because look, Luo Binghe ended up dead. In his hands. In his body that’s possessed by someone.

“Leave, all of you.”

The throne room fell silent. The aristocrats whom Shen Jiu invited for celebration left without another word. Today was supposed to be a joyous day, according to Sha Hualing but the failure of the warden of the north turned over the celebration into something ominous. They would be lucky if nobody ends up dead tonight because the previous ruler of their realm would usually go on a killing spree to calm themselves if something upsets them. They don’t dare to doubt the hidden cruelties of the benign beauty who stood confidently before them for he also possesses the aura of a heavenly demon. Shen Jiu’s red eyes, especially, look at them as if they were beneath him. Those eyes promised danger and they could only pray for Mobei-jun’s and their survival for the night because the saintess blocked them from heading out, as if she knew that her master would need their blood to quench his anger.

“Empress…”

Sha Hualing was left alone in the throne room with Shen Jiu. The saintess is known as the closest aide of Shen Jiu.

“I wish to be alone, Hualing.”

Shen Jiu’s words didn’t come off as an order. For Sha Hualing, her empress sounded like he was pleading. To be left alone on his own, so that he could scream his sorrows without needing to mind what others would think of him for showing weakness. Sha Hualing bowed lightly before retreating into the darkness. She even ordered the guards outside the throne room to desert their post for the night so that no one would be able to hear Shen Jiu’s anger and sorrow combined.

“Thank you, Hualing.” Shen Jiu muttered before completely falling on his knees, an inexplicable amount of grief threatens to swallow him whole. Shen Jiu should have learned his lesson a long time ago. As a child, he was already deprived of everything. When he grew up and became lord of Qing Jing, he was still denied respect that’s expected to be given to someone of his status. He was scorned and his only family abandoned him and left him to suffer on his own. Shen Jiu always had nothing, had no one. Even after becoming Shen Qingqiu, he was still alone despite reaching the pinnacle on his own. Solitude was the only place for someone like him, because apparently, he was cursed. Cursed by divinity for defying them or something; at least that’s what the records in the archive told him. He will never be happy. Shen Jiu was meant to walk a lonely path because it was fate’s design. However, that child came around. The son of fate, Luo Binghe. A snot-nosed brat who annoyed him to no end. In the archive, it said that he was meant to fall for him because he was his fated one. After that, Shen Jiu was meant to kill the one he loves. Of course, he rejected it. Shen Jiu refused to acknowledge everything that has something to do with fate. Love him? That child? Don’t make him laugh! Shen Jiu decided to do the opposite. Ignoring Luo Binghe’s existence and staying far away from the child, he felt free. If Shen Jiu doesn’t come to love him, then there’s no such thing as fate!

However, the skinner mission came. It was the first time he heard someone defend him earnestly without hesitation. Despite everything that Luo Binghe suffered inside his peak, the child still regarded him highly. He was left speechless. Confused. But Shen Jiu always pays goodness with equal good. Despite his own misgivings about getting close to the child, he shoved his feelings aside. Shen Qingqiu became a teacher to Luo Binghe for the first time. Assessing the child’s potential and giving him a proper manual, Shen Qingqiu slowly but surely became fond of Luo Binghe. The immortal even went as far as giving the child his own instrument to play with because Luo Binghe’s creation was horrible. They ate together and went on a few missions together during the short time of his life as Shen Qingqiu before he died inside the caves. He even promised to fix Luo Binghe’s craft after his seclusion if the beast were to learn how to properly play—which he must have accomplished considering his skills. But now, there is no way for him to do that because Luo Binghe is dead. If Shen Qingqiu only came to get his disciple on his own, this wouldn’t have happened.

*

Shang Qinghua left the throne room incredulous. When he first heard Mobei-jun say that the north will submit to the east, he was perplexed. Though he shrugged it off because eventually, the north will become the east’s territory anyway once Luo Binghe ascends to power. He didn’t put much thought into it until he met the one whom Mobei-jun will swore his allegiance to.

Shen Qingqiu, the villainous scum lord of Qing Jing Peak regally sits on the throne meant for demon kings. Beside him stood one of Luo Binghe’s supposed wives in the future, Sha Hualing. However, that’s not the important part! Shang Qinghua remembers seeing Shen Qingqiu during the peak lord’s meeting in the morning! The immortal still has a perfect pair of emeralds then but now, the one staring down at him is someone who sports a pair of crimson and green eyes! Moreover, the aura that this Shen Qingqiu emits is comparable to Mobei-jun’s but more ominous.

“It is quite nice to see a familiar face in this foreign land.” He heard him say, obviously amused by Shang Qinghua’s trembling figure. The An Diing lord dared not to look directly into Shen Qingqiu’s eyes.

“I asked for your presence because I wanted to know Cang Qiong’s state.” Shang Qinghua heard the fan snapping close as Shen Qingqiu drew nearer to him. “You see, I died in the Lingxi Caves, no thanks to Liu Qingge’s folly. I just wish to know Cang Qiong’s state after my death.”

Shang Qinghua wanted to give Shen Qingqiu the answer he wanted. Unfortunately, Shen Qingqiu is still alive inside their sect. Shang Qinghua has no way of knowing how or why this happened when the plot was completely different. But before he could make up an answer that would satisfy Shen Qingqiu, Sha Hualing already admitted to seeing an impostor of his walk around the sect alive. Shen Qingqiu being the intelligent scholar that he is, concluded that his body must have been possessed by a wandering spirit, much to Shang Qinghua’s surprise. Though he knew that he created Shen Qingqiu as someone intelligent, he didn’t expect him to be rational as well.

“Never mind that, it’s been years anyway. I was just curios what happened to the sect after I died, but it seems that I wasn’t even dead there. But setting that aside—”

Shang Qinghua wanted to tell Shen Qingqiu that this matter is not something that he can set aside! Not only did the scum villain died, but he also even came back to life! System, what is happening to my novel?! He questioned, but the system completely ignored him.

After that, Shang Qinghua and Mobei-jun were tasked to abduct Luo Binghe during the conference. His king didn’t give him any reason as to why their ‘Empress’ wanted his disciple, but the most important thing is for them to take the protagonist and bail.

It would’ve been an easy order for them to complete. However, the system suddenly came back to life, demanding that he make sure that Luo Binghe is flung to the abyss, or else he dies. That’s why, Shang Qinghua did the most rational thing. After Mobei-jun opened Luo Binghe’s seal, he told the demon to impede the coming cultivators. He promised him that he would restrain Luo Binghe and the ice demon fortunately trusted him. But of course, Shang Qinghua had no intentions of restraining Luo Binghe. Instead, he waited for the impostor to arrive, but as ironic as it sounded, Luo Binghe jumped into the abyss himself. It was clear in Shang Qinghua’s eyes. The protagonist who was supposed to be pushed, jumped into the void on his own. But of course, he can’t tell Shen Qingqiu that his disciple committed suicide on his volition. The immortal would be angrier, and he just knew it so, he pinned everything on the impostor. However, what he, and Mobei-jun received was humiliation before the prestigious nobles of the East and North. Shen Qingqiu seemed to have lost his mind in fits of rage as the immortal’s hand contacted his, and Mobei-jun’s cheeks. The demon seemed to take Shen Qingqiu’s beatings well, but Shang Qinghua was different. He is not as sturdy as Mobei-jun so one slap from the immortal was enough to make him lose his balance. He certainly did not see that coming.

“This world doesn’t need two of me. If his death would prevent my disciple’s demise, then you should have done it!”

Wow. Shang Qinghua doesn’t know whether to be puzzled by Shen Qingqiu’s interest in Luo Binghe, or to be amazed by his cruelty. Still, Shang Qinghua did not voice out his amusement. He’s afraid that he will die if he were to question Shen Qingqiu’s actions because everyone inside the throne room strangely respects and fears the immortal. Though he doesn’t know how on earth that happened as well.

“Leave, all of you.”

Thanking the gods for their graces, Shang Qinghua meekly exited the room. He’s glad that he only ended up being slapped because tonight, he’s certain that he will be the recipient of Mobei-jun’s ire.

Chapter Text

Tears prickled Luo Binghe’s eyes as he retreated. Shen Qingqiu’s sword pointed at him, threatening to maim him should he try to save himself. He already knew that the one standing before him was not and will never be his beloved. The immortal who scorned him with passion, the master he dragged down from his lofty position, the one he loved unknowingly, the person he came back for, and the one who offered him callous kindness was gone. The one who promised to fix his badly crafted flute, has disappeared somewhere he could never find or reach. The original Shen Qingqiu already left his side and will never come back.

“You are no Qing Jing disciple! This master does not have a demon as his disciple!”

Luo Binghe halted. He already reached the end of the cliff. Just one more step, and he will be plunged into that hellish place once more. The place that shaped him into a hateful monster that he once was, surviving amongst heralds of abyss through sheer will. But does it even matter at this point? He only tried to live then because he had a goal. Because Shen Qingqiu was alive. But now, he no longer needs to try. The only person who managed to keep him alive then is already gone. Luo Binghe no longer needs to fight. In all honesty, he hopes that the fall this time is strong enough to break his skull.

Luo Binghe laughed humorously, “I hate you so much.” He spat in disdain as he glared at the impostor before him. Luo Binghe can’t even think of hurting the immortal before him because from his appearance, to his aura, to his qi, everything about him screams the remains of his Shizun. Everything but his soul. “How dare you say the exact same words that he said in the past? You think you have everyone charmed—but make no mistakes, impostor.” Luo Binghe gripped the blade that was directed to his chest tightly. “You will never be Shen Qingqiu.” He declared firmly. “You can never be my Shen Qingqiu.”  

Xiu Ya made a cluttering sound as it hit the ground. Luo Binghe then took his final step to demise with closed eyes. The least he could do for himself was stop the impostor from harming him while using his Shizun’s face.

Why is it always too late for us, Qinaide?

-

Shen Qingqiu gripped Xiu Ya tightly. After mulling over things for the entire night, he came to a conclusion. He will kill that impostor if it’s the last thing he’ll do. Luo Binghe must have known, that’s why he was subjected to such fate. The little beast must have noticed that Shen Qingqiu’s body was inhabited by another. That’s enough reason for his impostor to silence his disciple.

Drawing the arrays that will teleport him to his own peak, Shen Qingqiu drew his own blood to complete the array. However, before he could infuse his own qi to the circle, the doors of his chamber were flung open. Sha Hualing entered in a hurried mess.

“Your majesty, a plague has broken out!” she reported, panting as if she ran all the way to his palace just to deliver news that Shen Qingqiu barely cares about at this point. During the course of months ever since he woke up in this realm, Shen Qingqiu diligently played the role of the ruler. He established rules and orders to keep the entire East from crumbling under the oppressive hand of the Southern demons. He guided them to a more comfortable life because they lived in the territory of his supposed dead husband, whom he assumed as Luo Binghe. But now that the beast is dead, why should he care for them? There’s no reason for him to stay any longer in this place. Besides, he is not a demon by nature. He is a human cultivator, and these creatures are bound to betray and drive him away once they realize that.

 “Hualing is aware that your majesty is grieving but my empress, your people need you.”

Shen Qingqiu looked at the array. His people. Are they really his people? He’s certain that they will leave him too. Everybody did. Everybody will. It would be better if they die now while they’re still loyal to him.

Would it be?

“You are all they have, your majesty. You are all we have.” Sha Hualing bowed deeply. Shen Qingqiu doesn’t know what to say. If he goes to Cang Qiong now and murders that bastard who’s loved by his martial family according to Shang Qinghua, will he still have a place in thar mountain? Shen Qingqiu scoffed at the thought. He didn’t have a place back then there when he’s still on his body. Luo Binghe was the only one who adored him in that mountain and even he is dead now. But in here, in this realm, these beings are somewhat loyal to him. Demons are different from humans. He wished they were different from humans. They wouldn’t betray him so easily for as long as he possesses the blazing mark on his forehead and the crimson color in one of his eyes. For now, he should set the death of that imbecile aside.

Shen Qingqiu’s grip on Xiu Ya loosened.

“Summon the entire court. Close the gates and isolate the affected areas. Send healers to the field but not after ensuring their safety.”  Shen Qingqiu’s string of orders did not stop as both walked through the corridors. Sha Hualing looked energized as she nodded vigorously to every order, obviously dedicated to her job.

“And contact the temple. It might be some kind of curse that can be purge with the right rituals.” He added before heading to a direction opposite to the demoness who bowed before leaving to execute his orders. Shen Qingqiu will burn incense for now. But he promised with all his heart, he will not allow the impostor’s slight to slide.

All in due time.

3 YEARS LATER…

The festive atmosphere of the Eastern Capital would make someone mistake the domain to be of humans. Stalls for roasted animals and sweet candies littered the streets while lantern vendors camped beside the riverbank. Today marks the day that their beloved monarch rose from death. Although their empress was the only one to be revived, the demons are more than grateful to have the royal as their ruler, thus the celebration. The festival was established by the temple itself, led by the reigning saint of the Sha Clan. The aristocrats are surprisingly in favor of the celebration as well despite being against Sha Hualing for most times. The unity of the clashing factions is the evidence of their empress greatness that had already spread throughout the entire lands.

“Buy a lantern and wish his majesty longevity! The celestial demons will surely hear our prayers if we send enough lanterns!” one of the vendors shouted as customers flocked around in search of the best designed lantern to light.

“The young master of Wei Clan orders a dozen! I heard he’s trying to impress his majesty by lighting the entire sky during the banquet celebration!”

The empress’s liking for the festival was not a secret to the citizens of the eastern region. Their monarch’s participation during the event alone was enough to make demons think that Empress Shen loved the holiday created just for him. That’s why aristocrats who are vying for the royal’s affection and power spend a fortune to impress him every year. Even so, the position beside their ruler remained empty and it’s been three years.

“Aiya! You think a dozen is enough to impress his majesty? Have you forgotten that last year, the northern regent lit more than a hundred lanterns? What’s a dozen going to do? If a hundred lanterns did not touch his majesty’s heart, what can a mere dozen do?” a female priestess from the temple remarked while writing her wish on the paper. She fervently asks the heavens to grant their lonely empress a deserving male or female consort this year. She heard that his majesty refused the offers of both the temple and the aristocrats for a spouse. But how can royalty thrive if the remaining one keeps to himself all the time! Although it was known that the monarch visits brothels and invites the ladies to his palace to play, nothing intimate ever happens! She heard that the ministers, in desperation, had spiked the empress’s drink with aphrodisiac many times but their plans are always foiled somehow.

“We are all aware of that, Li’er. But I think there’s a reason why his majesty refuses the affection of those around him.” One of the most promising scholars in the academy declared, butting on the conversation of the priestess and the vendor. “This one heard from my noble father that his majesty has someone in his heart. Every year, he would light a white lantern in his courtyard alone. And do you know what the lanterns signifies in the human realm?” The crowd of demons who are supposed to be buying lanterns have gathered around the proud scholar. The eastern demons have always been invested in things that are connected to their competent empress who gave them lasting peace for years and made their lives so much better.

The scholar then coughed as he continued, “It means mourning the loss of one’s soulmate. According to the texts provided in the academy, lanterns have various meanings but the one that his majesty lights is especially made to commemorate a deceased lover!” the scholar exclaimed in confidence which earned him a few gasps and groans of disapproval.

There has been an ongoing guess and bets on the future emperor of the eastern realm, after all. Most believes that Mobei Jun will become the emperor while others placed their money for the northerner’s uncle, Linguang Jun. On the other hand, the bets on Sha Hualing becoming the first companion of the empress had already amassed a considerable amount of wealth, so it is no wonder that some demons would disagree that their monarch had a decreased lover. No one would win the bet if that’s the case and they would hate for that to happen.

“Ey! This one is only imparting his knowledge! If you have problems with this one’s interpretation, then question the academy that his majesty established himself!”

The crowd dispersed at the scholar’s words. Some were grumbling about the young man’s audacity for using the name of their ruler to prove his point while others stopped to think about the scholar’s words. It actually made sense if they think about it. After all, there is no reason for their empress to refuse fine men if he’s not in love with someone! Moreover, a companion for life would help him lighten his burden and it would also be beneficial to increase his power over the demon realm! That’s why the scholar’s theory is actually a possible reason for the empress’s stagnant marital status.

“Your majesty, it’s time.”

Chapter Text

The gloominess of Mobei-jun’s palace was a welcome sensation to Luo Binghe. As it appears, despite the confusing changes he encountered after emerging from the abyss, the ice demon remained steadfast in his solitude. Luo Binghe has heard of a new ruler in the realm who is shrouded in mystery and has a firm grip on the Sha Clan. He didn’t care enough to pry for information for the ruler’s identity. In the end, everything will once more be his. Luo Binghe intends to take charge of the demon realm once more and search for possible answers inside the mausoleum. He heard from Meng Mo that the demon lords of old might have taken ancient knowledge to their grave that can help him figure out his situation. May it be scrolls or artifacts, he will take if it can give him clarity of the real Shen Qingqiu’s whereabouts. But first, he needs to convince Mobei-jun once more to serve him. The northerner was his hands and feet in the past. Conquering the realms would be easier if he could get his allegiance once more.

“An ignorant half-breed proposing to turn this lord into an underling, amusing.” Ridicule sits comfortably at the tip of Mobei-jun’s tongue. However, Luo Binghe already expected this reply. Mobei-jun said the same thing in the past and proposes a duel to determine whether Luo Binghe was worthy afterwards. He just needs to wait for the demon to provoke him.

“But you are a decade late, young heavenly demon,” Luo Binghe’s expression morphed into confusion at the demon’s reply. “This lord’s loyalty lies with the rightful ruler of the demon kind. Even if you have the power to defeat this lord, this lord will not bend his knee to you or anyone unless His Majesty orders it, or you are His Majesty himself.” Mobei-jun says firmly which puzzled Luo Binghe.

Mobei-jun’s behavior was an anomaly. He can think of two reasons for this change. Either the impostor did something amiss during the three years he was gone, or this might be a side effect for returning earlier than the past from the abyss. It took him ten years to survive that hell previously and he managed to emerge seven years earlier this time. He wasn’t aware whether Mobei-jun was serving another ruler before him or if the North was an independent region in the past. And if he was, then does this mean that Mobei-jun’s current lord will perish seven years from now?

Luo Binghe frowned. He tried to ignore the abnormalities that he observed during his trip to the north. The eastern territories especially were suspiciously thriving. When he wandered the alleys of the east capital, he barely saw any aggressive demons. Even the elder demon who was banished by the Sha Clan for failing Sha Hualing during the invasion was nowhere to be found. It was as if every nook and cranny of the capital was cleansed of crime and misconduct. It was jarring to witness the seemingly harmonious relationship of the demons inside the capital. If not for their unique appearances, he would have mistaken the place for a human city. And although the rotting meat of humans that was on sale was a dead giveaway of who the inhabitants are, the demons he saw acted civilized, almost human. And now, Mobei-jun is claiming that he has already sworn allegiance to another ruler which he roughly guesses as the mysterious monarch that rules the eastern territories. After all, he heard the same “rightful ruler” moniker on the street of the eastern capital.

Luo Binghe’s train of thought led him to wonder how did such a competent and respected ruler met his end and how come he was not in the archives of eastern royalty? If he thinks rationally, even the impostor doesn’t possess the power to make the demons abide nor the ability to rule such expansive land. He would need to study the history of the demon realm if he wanted to even come close to understanding this bloodthirsty race. And even after that, he will need to exhibit unassailable power that cannot be contested to earn their respect, which he doubts the impostor has. Luo Binghe was aware that the impostor was inept in using the techniques that the original Shen Qingqiu learned, and his shizun’s body and martial prowess was not at its best condition as well. This eliminates the possibility that the impostor has anything to do with the sudden changes in the demon realm. But now that the fraud was out of the picture, Luo Binghe was left in an impasse.

“Whatever you’re thinking, this lord will not change his stance.”

The certainty in Mobei-jun’s words made Luo Binghe sigh. He needs the northern demon’s support if he wants to cull his way to the pinnacle of the demon realm easily. The Mobei Clan possesses immense influence and military power. If he can get him to be on his side, his initial goal would be easier to accomplish but seeing how determined Mobei-jun was, Luo Binghe understood that there is no changing the ice demon’s mind.

“This lord doesn’t know what your plan is but if you are looking for a faction that you can trust to not betray your faith, this lord suggests that you meet his majesty. Though you are a half-breed, this lord is certain that his majesty will at least grant you an audience, you’re a heavenly demon after all.” Mobei-jun said indifferently before throwing him an invitation scroll.

“Come to the capital a week from now. Dress appropriately otherwise,” the ice demon paused. Luo Binghe doesn’t know whether Mobei-jun was judging his qualifications to meet the ruler or he just wants to make him uncomfortable with his scrutinizing glare.

“Never mind. Just present the invitation at the gates. The guards will know what to do.” Mobei-jun added, sounding unconvinced with his own words as well before leaving Luo Binghe on his own. He needs to inform Sha Hualing of the appearance of the empress’s lost disciple. If the priestess thinks that Luo Binghe’s presence will shake their ruler negatively, the invitation he gave him will not lead to an audience with his majesty. But if Luo Binghe’s presence will prove to be useful in Sha Hualing’s perspective, then the invitation will lead to an audience with the empress. Mobei-jun doesn’t want to make the same gravity of mistake that he committed years ago. That’s why he can’t afford to be careless even if it’s their ruler’s most beloved disciple.

-

The Lantern Festival commences with the sound of cannons and fireworks being shot at the sky. The night was still young, and the banquet kicked off with the arrival of the demon realm’s most prestigious nobles and most distinguished scholars. It was a joyous occasion that was held every year to celebrate the resurrection of the empress whose slumbering body was discovered decades ago. They also think that their beloved benevolent rightful ruler deserves to be celebrated for his competence. The Eastern demons respect the royal greatly for changing their seemingly redundant lives of macabre and brutality. Their Empress, Shen Jiu, gave even those of common birth a chance to change their lives by establishing new rules that kept even the disdainful aristocrats in line. In a matter of years, order was established. This prevented the unnecessary deaths of innocent and weak demons. Their majesty also stopped a plague from possibly wiping out the inhabitants of the eastern realm in the most efficient way without involving hacking of heads. If it were the nobles, they would have massacred the commoners who first caught the disease to mitigate the damage. Taking the life of peasants had always been a menial task for those of blue blood but when the empress himself acted differently, the rest of his subject followed suit in purging the disease without bloodshed.

“Your majesty, it’s time.”

The golden doors of the banquet hall opened with the sound of drums. The Warden of the North and the Saintess of the East entered the celebration as the retinue of the only ruler of the land. The demon soldiers who donned a new set of armor that befits its status as the empress’s royal knights formed a line of two while holding the flag of the eastern territory with pride as their revered ruler entered the banquet hall with compelling grace and elegance that can only be seen in royalty.

“Hark! Pay your respect to the one true ruler of our realm! His Majesty, the Empress, Shen Jiu has arrived!”

The bustling banquet that was filled with noise became silent in the presence of Shen Qingqiu. Every demon in attendance bowed lightly to show their respect and reverence. Even an outsider can tell; this show of respect was not obtained through fear nor intimidation. The unadulterated admiration of every demon in attendance transcends divine worship of any kind.

“Shizun…”

On the second floor of the hall, Luo Binghe appeared. The little beast whom Shen Jiu believes loved him even after death, stands alive and well—and weeping.

Shen Jiu’s fan snapped open. Underneath the fine material of his accessory, a hidden relieved smile was formed.

“Little beast.” The immortal says quietly with a hint of longing that only he and Luo Binghe can hear.   

Chapter Text

“You better stay still and make no trouble if you don’t wish to be kicked out.” 

Sha Hualing left the darkened chambers without another word after that, with Mobei-jun in tow. Hushed whispers were exchanged by Shen Jiu’s most trusted confidants which leaves Luo Binghe even more confused. Still, he did not retaliate nor complained. What’s important was the person he saw, standing proud and tall. His shizun is alive. The original Shen Qingqiu in his full glory, leading the banquet of demons, his voice commanding respect, similar to the one in Luo Binghe’s memory. Although he was kicked out of the celebration due to his common garments that did not fit the standards of the occasion, Sha Hualing promised that he will meet his shizun, or Sha Hualing’s venerated empress in her case, no later than today. And that promise was enough for Luo Binghe to stay.

He decided to just sit in silence while the celebration outside goes on. He doesn't remember how long he’s waiting for Sha Hualing and Mobei-jun to come back for him but when he opened his eyes once more, dusk is already over the horizon, hues of orange scattered on the previously darkened skies, yet there’s still no trace of anyone coming back to escort him to where his master was. The loud sounds from the banquet hall have already died down. So, Luo Binghe resolved to just find Shen Qingqiu on his own in this palace, since it seems that he had been forgotten. However, before he can even reach for the window to leave, the doors of the room opened, and the one he’s been waiting for entered, accompanied by two demon servants who retreated at the flick of Shen Qingqiu’s hand. Luo Binghe immediately stopped in his tracks, taking in the sight of his master whom he dreamed to meet ever since he realized him gone. 

“Shizun…” he whispered as he bridged the gap between them, catching Shen Qingqiu’s slurring figure before his head even hit the table. Luo Binghe can smell the strong scent of grape wine from the immortal, mixed with fresh bamboo fragrance, that only he carries. 

Still, being the elusive immortal he is, Shen Qingqiu pushed Luo Binghe away weakly, and leaned for support on the bed frame instead. Luo Binghe retreated from Shen Qingqiu’s space to give him room to breath. However, his actions and presence were met with an upset tone, and a question demanding for an answer. “Little beast, what are you doing in my chambers?” Shen Qingqiu asked sharply but before Luo Binghe could deign him an answer, the immortal started to strip his layer of garments, while rambling about the absurd temperature of the room, claiming his chamber was too hot for his liking until Luo Binghe stopped his hands from removing the last layer of his clothing. He can already see a glimpse of pink bud behind the thin undergarments of Shen Qingqiu’s robe. 

“Shizun, did you perhaps consume an aphrodisiac or something similar unknowingly?” Luo Binghe questioned, his gaze not leaving Shen Qingqiu’s confused expression that quickly morphed into shame upon realizing his actions. Luo Binghe can attest to the freezing temperature of his shizun’s room. There’s no way its the room’s fault the immortal felt hot. 

“Call Mobei-jun.” Shen Qingqiu was silent in his shame. He didn’t have any plans of meeting Luo Binghe tonight, but tomorrow, once he composed himself enough, and dressed himself in a way he remotely did back in Cang Qiong in an effort to give the beast a sense of familiarity to his master who left him in the hands of that impostor for a long time. But now all of that is shattered. Not only did he humiliated himself before him by falling on his own feet, he also almost stripped himself naked due to his lack of inhibitions for unknown reason. He can’t believe he allowed his drink to get spike by those stupid, audacious elders who kept on throwing their sons and daughters at him before he retired for the night! 

“Why should I call Mobei to assist my own master? I am certain that I am skilled enough to assist Shizun.” Shen Qingqiu frowned at Luo Binghe’s upset tone, becoming deeply irritated by the second, despite the burning need that creeps inside his body. Why else would he need Mobei-jun to assist him? Is Luo Binghe not thinking at all? The warden’s ice abilities can help him quell the burning heat in his veins while he stabilizes his body with his qi. Isn’t this common sense?

“Pardon my discourtesy but allow this disciple to assist you in your dilemma, Shizun.” Luo Binghe says politely, despite the tinge of jealousy in his tone. Shen Qingqiu’s forehead creased into a knot, yelping as Luo Binghe pushed him lightly to his bed, the immortal collapsing on the futon, while his disciple loomed above him, breathing heavily. Despite Luo Binghe’s brazen initiative, he still hesitated to touch him, his gaze fixated on his eyes, boring through his soul, which made Shen Qingqiu shift uncomfortably in his position. Still, Luo Binghe did not dare to move until Shen Qingqiu himself pulled his little beast into a hot, searing exchange, soft sighs escaping their parted lips as their tongues collided, tangling with each other, mouths moving in sync, while their hearts raced in anticipation. 

Shen Qingqiu snakes his arms around Luo Binghe’s neck, locking eyes with him for a while, before his beast of a disciple dived into the crooks of his master’s neck, savoring every part of him, licking and biting his skin shamelessly, while trailing kisses to convey his apologies. Luo Binghe’s tongue leaves his skin singed and branded with love bites, drawing blood on the immortal’s nipples, leaving a crown-like bite atop the reddening bud from too much sucking, as its owner writhes in pleasure, toes curling from too much stimulation. 

“... Binghe… that’s enough…” Shen Qingqiu hummed in an effort to drive his disciple away from his chest, his hands tearing the cheap fabric of Luo Binghe’s clothes away from his well-toned body, muscles protruding from all sides. Scars have covered his unblemished skin—a testament to the battles he won against the monsters of the Abyss. He certainly worried and grieved over him for nothing. 

Shen Qingqiu smiled. Raising his feet to Luo Binghe’s chest, he kicked him lightly to make him move, which Luo Binghe gladly abides to. Luo Binghe kneels before him, presenting his body to his master, unabashed.

“Serve your Empress, and prove yourself worthy of his company, half-blooded beast.” Shen Qingqiu orders, and who is Luo Binghe to deny him of anything?

Gently, as if handling a fragile porcelain vase his master won from some random auction, Luo Binghe held Shen Qingqiu’s legs with care. Slowly, he worked his way up from leaving a profound mark on his master’s heel, making Shen Qingqiu wince from pain, that’s substituted with a surprise hitch of breath not long after when Luo Binghe started kissing his toes—sucking on it, his mouth moving in tantalizing slowness. Every touch Luo Binghe leaves in his skin were ones filled with reverence. He explored every nook and cranny of Shen Qingqiu’s legs, admiring the length of his master’s limbs, that are seemingly sculpted to be a perfect fit for a regal being.

“Shizun, please tell this disciple to stop if it starts to hurt.” Luo Binghe’s request was received by Shen Qingqiu’s delirious nods as his disciple’s fingers started to stretch him, prying his hole open painfully, yet there was a strange pleasant sensation that comes with it after, that he cannot help but chase. It didn’t take long for Shen Qingqiu to fuck himself on Luo Binghe’s fingers, chasing pleasure that mere fingers can never dream to fulfill. Seeing how stretched and needy his shizun have become, Luo Binghe pulled his fingers without warning, leaving a gaping sensation inside Shen Qingqiu. But before Shen Qingqiu could whine, Luo Binghe captured his lips, distracting him from looking at the monstrosity that lines itself to his puckered hole, aiming to destroy him completely for another after this night, not that he’s going to look for anyone now that Luo Binghe’s around. And before he could even voice his protest, the tip of Luo Binghe’s cock have opened his inside. Shen Qingqiu can feel himself tear from Luo Binghe’s size, his breathe caught up in his throat, while his nails dug on Luo Binghe’s back, drawing blood from him. 

“... ‘t hurts… It hurts, pull it out!” He screamed in agony, yet Luo Binghe doesn't listen. Instead, he hust tries to calm him down, drawing circles on his back while Shen Qingqiu bites Luo Binghe’s shoulder blade, his mouth tasting iron from biting too hard.

“Shh… it’s okay, A-jiu. It's almost in, you’re doing good. Just a little bit more, okay?” Luo Binghe coaxed, and Shen Qingqiu can only nod, fat tears streaming from his eyes. And when he thought that the pain was almost gone, Luo Binghe’s grip on his cheeks became even more painful and before he could say another word, he felt pain travel through his every vein, his hole tearing up completely, while Luo Binghe thrusts his entirety inside him. He didn’t even give him time to complain nor process the pain that muddled his brain. Luo Binghe thrusts inside him, his pace brutal, while blood covered the pristine covers of Shen Qingqiu’s bed. Not long after, their fornication bore fruit as pain slowly turned into a twisted type of pleasure, his body adapting to Luo Binghe’s impossible appendage, that Shen Qingqiu thinks is capable of rearranging his insides. 

_

“It’s because of this, isn’t it?” Luo Binghe almost choked on his tea when the immortal hiked up his robes, revealing tattoos of ancient runes in his legs, as well his chest, and upper limbs. Shen Qingqiu looked at him casually, sipping his own drink, while savoring Luo Binghe ’s cooking. 

Luo Binghe was the first to wake up between the two, thighs locking him in place, arms pulling him in for warmth, while exhausted sighs left Shen Qingqiu’s lips. He woke up early to prepare the immortal some hangover soup and feed him proper human food. Luo Binghe thinks his master became skin and bones during their time away from each other. Though, last night was too dark for him to notice the marks on Shen Qinqiu’s body. 

“Cat got your tongue? You’ve always thrown this master looks of longing. Of course, it was improper so this master always had to chastise you for that and it was somewhat uncomfortable too. After all, no one had enough audacity to look at this master in that manner.” Shen Qingqiu’s bold attitude ever since he arrived had been a pleasant surprise. Although his shizun never shied from expressing himself in the past, this was somehow different. Shen Qingqiu sounded playful, his eyes kind and teasing, almost endearing. Maybe his change was due to his royal dignity. He’s no longer the unworthy lord of the scholarly peak. Rather, he had become the empress of the demon realm, the only one after a few centuries now.

Luo Binghe can’t help but smile. Genuinely, happily for his beloved who suffered so much. However, before he could open his mouth, Shen Qingqiu’s next question made him retain the silence, afraid to misspeak and ruin what little happiness they currently have. 

“What are we in the past, Luo Binghe?”

Luo Binghe’s hold on the chopsticks tightened. He can barely swallow the meat he'd eaten at the immortal’s question. What could he possibly tell him? The bloody past they shared, where he took everything from him, and became his greatest nemesis? Or the many forms of torture he subjected him to, betraying his promise and killing the one thing that kept him alive, while also obsessing over his death after he learned about the secret of Qing Jing’s archive, which led him to commit unspeakable acts to his body? Any and all of the connections they shared were rotten. Luo Binghe knows in his heart that this person before him, this jaded yet fragile and kind immortal was not someone he deserves. 

But this is his chance. A chance for a new beginning, a chance for him to make amends but even so, the truth of their past is not something he can easily share. Not after knowing what it's like be in Shen Qingqiu’s embrace. Luo Binghe wanted to be selfish. Just this once. Just this once.

Noticing his disciple’s silence, Shen Qingqiu feigned a cough and drink once more from his cup. Their past seem to exist, but something unsavory must have happened for Luo Binghe to hesitate in telling him. No matter, it can always be discussed on another day. What matters more for Shen Jiu is the present. After all, the past cannot harm him, “You don’t have to tell me now. But promise to share it with me in the future.” He remarked, which made Luo Binghe’s expression brighter. The little beast nodded in relief, while his destined empress savored the last of his meals. 

_

After their near confrontation of the past, Luo Binghe started spending his time as his master’s disciple once more. Although, Shen Qingqiu’s court unanimously assumed that Luo Binghe’s position will rise as their empress’s consort in the future due to his odd closeness with their aloof ruler. Most of the ministers views Luo Binghe’s appearance as something positive, mainly because of his lineage but some dislike the sudden presence of a dirt-blooded heavenly demon, who have nothing to his name, yet dared to snatch the attention of the only empress in their realm. They deem him unfit to stand beside their majesty, Shen Jiu, when individuals like Mobei-jun, Sha Hualing, and Linguang-jun have been around for a long time. Still, they did not voice their displeasure. Despite their disagreements of Luo Binghe’s qualifications, the trust and respect they have for their empress overrides their own opinions. 

“Come, walk with this empress, little beast.” Shen Jiu beckoned Luo Binghe to his side once the court adjourned. The ministers bowed in reverence as Shen Jiu went past them, with a condescending Luo Binghe in tow. Shen Jiu only hit Luo Binghe with his fan lightly, reprimanding him for trying to rile up his loyal retainers every time. 

“Don’t do that. They are good subjects.” The immortal would comment, while Luo Binghe pouts childishly, pointing out that they’re the ones at fault for trying to match his shizun ignorantly with just anyone. Shen Jiu laughs at his antics, while also assuring the sulking beast beside him that his spot will never be taken unless Shen Jiu gets tired of him. Luo Binghe in turn would smile confidently, stating that he would leave a lasting mark in the immortal’s life, so that his shizun will no longer be able to leave without him, while clinging on his arm. Their days were supposed to remain this way, peaceful and calm in each other’s company, until Shang Qinghua appeared, requesting a private audience with Shen Qingqiu concerning the immortals he had long forgotten in exchange for his current life. 

“Shixiong, please! You have to help him! They are forcing him to pay for the crimes you committed—I mean, the things he didn’t even do himself!”

Shang Qinghua was in a state of panic. He was a blubbering mess, his robes disheveled, eyes sunken from many sleepless nights he spent trying to help the only person he shares a sense of camaraderie with after being thrown in a world he knew nothing of, despite having created everything. However, his piteous state did not earn him sympathy from the individuals present in the room. Mobei-jun’s mood became increasingly cold, his eyes boring behind Shang Qinghua’s back, icy glares in his skin while Luo Binghe remained silent, yet his hands sit at the hilt of Xin Mo, ready to unsheathe the sword should Shang Qinghua say something that could endanger the luxury of his life beside his master. However, Sha Hualing was not as silent as the two. Enraged at Shang Qinghua’s disrespect, the saint of the demon realm bridged the gap between them with two steps alone, before hitting Shang Qinghua with all her might, making the immortal fall on his feet helplessly, surprised at the sudden assault. 

“Are you begging for death right now? How dare you speak against the Empress with this dirty mouth?! Do you think you’ll walk out of this place alive?” Sha Hualing’s whip vibrated with qi. Shang Qinghua scurried away from her, retreating in fear, the consequences of his actions now dawning on him. “Even the north will not be enough to save you. And if they try,” Sha Hualing’s gaze traveled from Shang Qinghua’s trembling figure to Mobei-jun’s passive form. The warden of the north made no indications to save his right hand man yet he still garnered the ire of the demon saintess, who smirked maliciously, hands gripping the end of her whip. “... demons are never afraid of going to war for the sake of our majesty’s insulted honor and pride.”

“Ling’er, that’s enough.” Shen Jiu’s tone was harsh, reprimanding. Before Sha Hualing could unleash her true nature, the immortal stepped in between the demoness and a trembling Shang Qinghua. But Shen Jiu does not have any intentions of helping his impostor, or even Cang Qiong itself. Half of his life was wasted in keeping that sect afloat and he doesn’t intend to reconnect with them once more after everything that had happened. 

“But your majesty…” 

“It’s an order.” He says firmly, which made the demoness backdown. He then turned to Shang Qinghua, who looked at him with hopeful eyes. Shen Jiu smiled coldly in response.

“What crimes exactly, Shang Qinghua?” He asked, kneeling on the An Ding’s lord level as he continued. “I have heard of it from the reports. Charges of untoward behavior against the female disciples, acts of debauchery in the red pavilion, and even an attempt on Liu Qingge’s life.” Shen Jiu sighed deeply, as if gathering enough patience to reign in his emotions that threaten to spill at the mere mention of the many accusations he received from his martial family. “None of those things were true. I have been nothing but helpful to the sect and it’s members in the ways I know, yet all this time, you still continue to scorn my name, my existence, as if I was the villain you need to purge, crucify, and kill just to reach the end of your stories.” Shen Jiu laughed. Mirthless laughter escaping his lips, his eyes empty and lifeless at the recollection of years he wasted trying to prove himself from these people who have longed reached their own conclusion. And yet, when that impostor arrived, they were quick to change their stance. Adoring the softer, kinder, obedient version of him, they fawned over the existence of someone who will never be him. They loved him so much, didn’t they? Their ideal Shen Qingqiu who never experienced what he had to do to get there. 

“You see, I heard a funny story.” He says, not at all happy, despite his claims. “He was loved by my martial siblings, wasn’t he? That impostor.” The immortal asked softly, yet the foreboding feeling in Shang Qinghua’s chest remained. He didn’t expect Shen Jiu to be so volatile when he’d been receiving the best things life has to offer this past few years. He thought the immortal was contented with his life, in relinquishing his position to Shen Yuan and remaining as the empress of this land. He thought wrong. 

“Adored by everyone I spent my entire life trying to connect with, to please—he was cherished by all those people in the blink of an eye just because he is not the Shen Qingqiu they grew up with, not the hateful scholar who was so proud of his position but was hated for it despite fighting the same battles all of you went through to gain that damn position and name!”

Shen Qingqiu finally screamed. Hatred in his eyes, the immortal turned to Shang Qinghua, grabbing the An Ding lord by the collar, shaking him in anger, in the unfairness of his situation, and for daring to ask Shen Jiu for help to save the amalgamation of what he could have been if he wasn’t so jaded, so broken, and hateful of the world that wronged him over and over again. Sha Hualing flinched in the background, saddened by the deep-rooted grief that Shen Qingqiu have nursed for the longest time. 

“I won’t help you save him. Never.” Shen Jiu said firmly, his chest heavy with pain, as he let go of Shang Qinghua’s collar, turning away. “Since all of you loved him so much, then you and your sect can defend him yourself. Cang Qiong is not frail in power. For once, use your brains and protect him if he’s that important to you. I don’t care anymore.” The immortal staggered to reach the doors. Sha Hualing followed Shen Jiu and helped him leave the room, but not before throwing Shang Qinghua another scalding look. 

Chapter Text

Luo Binghe followed Shang Qinghua’s bidding. He is unaware how the bastard knew the importance of Qiu Haitang’s life to Shen Qingqiu, but he obviously knew enough to blackmail Luo Binghe with it, claiming that if his shizun were to realize the woman’s involvement, he wouldn’t hesitate to turn himself in and take the fake Shen Qingqiu’s place, if only to appease the guilt in that heart of his. Of course, Luo Binghe didn’t dare to doubt him. He spent an entire lifetime dissecting his shizun’s past, and he knows the possibility of Shen Qingqiu jumping in the pyre of his doom for Qiu Haitang again is extremely high. If he were to think, Qiu Haitang must come in second for his shizun after Yue Qingyuan. 

So, Luo Binghe stormed the Water Prison, snatching the surprised phony of his arrival and maybe even his survival. He was the one who pushed him into the Abyss after all. 

“Put this master down, Luo Binghe!”

The fake Shen Qingqiu screamed, perfectly mimicking his shizun’s way of speaking, his voice, and even his vitriol. Still, Luo Binghe paid his rambling no mind. The agreement he made with Shang Qinghua stipulates that he delivers this bastard safely to the borders of the demon realm. He couldn’t care less of the rat’s plans afterwards. He’s only here to fulfill the end of his bargain and ensure that his shizun does not suffer his old fate. But looking at the situation he’s roped himself in, maybe he should have listened to his shizun more. 

“Stop right there, foul demon!”

Hot on his heels were Liu Qingge and the Sect leader, who didn’t even hesitate to draw his weapon and blast Luo Binghe on the spot. 

Behind them was the same old conspiring, trembling An Ding Peak Lord, Shang Qinghua. With fearful eyes, he whispered to Liu Qingge, which left the warlord fuming with rage. 

Luo Binghe was skillfully framed and betrayed. 

The half-demon laughed, uncaring. Even when the fake Shen Qingqiu ran in the arms of his martial family, Luo Binghe did nothing to stop him. 

Shang Qinghua , he doubts his shizun would miss him dearly if he were to suddenly disappear from his sight. 

With this in mind, Luo Binghe’s grip on Xin Mo tightened. His intent did not escape the cultivators, whose eyes narrowed at his actions. Liu Qingge moved to hide the fake from the half-demon’s line of sight, as if that phony was worthy of his interest in the first place. He intends to swipe Shang Qinghua’s head off of his shoulder, but maybe another day, when the presence of countless cultivators is not keen on searching for their location. 

“Since you dare frame one of our own, don’t even think that you’ll be able to leave without clearing Shen Qingqiu’s name, demon!"

Luo Binghe gave him a bored look. As if Liu Qingge could do anything to impede him if he truly wished to leave. Yue Qingyuan and his vibrating sword, however, is a different story, and he’s certain that his shizun will bash his head into two if he were to try and lay his hands on the man. Besides, Yue Qingyuan is a man of reason. Based on his experience, in any case. So long as he chooses the right words, the sect leader is certain to let him go. 

Luo Binghe opened his mouth, ready to weasel his way out of this mess. However, before he could even get a word in. Liu Qingge charged towards him with Cheng Luan like the brutish, brainless bastard he was. 

So, Luo Binghe unsheathed Xin Mo, ready to defend himself and launch his own strike; however, a flurry of black and gold robes descended upon them, parrying Liu Qingge’s attack perfectly, as if the person was operating on sheer familiarity of the warlord’s attack patterns. 

“Who do you think you’re raising your sword against, savage brute! ”

Luo Binghe’s blood ran cold. The peak lords, on the other hand, along with the imposter, faltered from where they stood. His shizun stands before him, regal and elegant with his two trusted retinues. Sha Hualing threw him looks of disapproval while Mobei Jun’s gaze was trained to the frozen Shang Qinghua. 

“From this day, you are hereby expelled from this Empress’ domain, Shang Qinghua.” Shen Qingqiu’s cold dismissal of the An Ding lord was met without resistance from the demons accompanying him. His shizun then turned towards him. Eyes devoid of emotions and affection perused the state of his body, as if searching for any marks or injuries. After a few more minutes of strained silence, Shen Qingqiu seemed convinced of his state. 

“We are leaving,” Shen Jiu declared. However, Liu Qingge was quick to leave the impostor whom he was hiding behind him seconds ago in an attempt to chase his shizun. Mobei Jun was quick to draw his sword, daring the warlord to take another step towards the demon realm’s most favored ruler. 

“You!”

Even when Shen Qingqiu chastised Liu Qingge daily for his intelligence in the past, he isn’t as dense as the scholar made him out to be, especially when it comes to his instinct. The call of blood is not something that can be mistaken. The Shen Qingqiu before him, the one draped in strange luxuries and cold arrogance, the one who perfectly blocked his attack with finesse and elegance, there was no mistaking it. This person is also Shen Qingqiu!

But the question lingers still: why? Why are there two of his morbid rival? Both felt like Shen Qingqiu himself, but the glaring difference of their bodies— their qi, one being mixed with demonic, while the other possessed the dantians of the one he grew up with —their personalities, and even how they carry themselves, cannot be brushed aside. 

“If you can’t even recognize the man you killed yourself with that stupid blade of yours, then this master sees no point in this conversation, Liu Qingge.” the familiar cold and biting tone he forgot, whilst in the company of the amicable Shen Qingqiu caught him off guard. And before he could put another word in, Shen Qingqiu grabbed Luo Binghe’s sword and opened a portal without looking back.