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Chapter Text

One thing that has slightly changed after getting Shang Qinghua finally back in the northern palace is his open complaints about his workload.
He used to grumble before too, but under his breath and mostly in words Mobei Jun did not understand. One he did understand and was repeated too aften was 'your father' but Mobei Jun did not understand the context , nor the relation to him or any other demon Shang Qinghua was dealing with. Humans are strange. Mobei Jun has made peace with the fact for a long time now.

Especially his human. He is small, mousy and gets scared of literally everything and anything, completely unbecoming of his peak lord title and yet he is strangely insightful, knowing the answers to things one couldn't find in the oldest vaults of royal libraries.

And, He is beautiful. Growing up, Mobei Jun had been indifferent to these things. Of course he can take things at face value and give a little aesthetic appreciation where it is due but Shang Qinghua's beauty is something else. It strikes him in the weirdest of manners, pulls at his heartstrings and warms up his belly.

He has never felt desire but for one person and it has taken him quite some time to come to terms with it but now that he has , Mobei Jun is still patient with it.
His human is a jittery little creature and runs away at the first notion of something he doesn't understand. So Mobei Jun starts with little things. Foremost, he puts some effort into learning about human rituals and courting methods before proceeding ,rather than going with his demonic ones like he would have before.

And he finds out humans are rather simple creatures in that regard. Strange but simple. What they want is care, some strange gifts such as flowers and shiny trinkets which have no value as Mobei Jun sees it and also acts of service from their prospective mate.

Care and gifts he has already tried to provide. Shang Qinghua's living quarters have been upgraded, not dissimilar to a consort's now . He has a wide range of fancy clothes and jewelry at his expense , even though he rarely brings them to use much to Mobei Jun's dismay. A line of servants have been appointed to assist him and provide him with whatever food he wishes to eat. He had been quite excited about the last one, but not as excited as he had been to eat the abominable lumpy bowl of noodles ,Mobei Jun had pulled for him, much to his surprise.

As for acts of service Mobei Jun thinks what Shang Qinghua would prefer the most would be a lessened work load , going by his daily complaints. But there is a limit to things Mobei Jun can afford to do being a king and a royal. He is not used to doing any kind of trivial work at all and is therefore not very adept in such matters.

So he chooses the second best thing.

The process is arduous, as Mobei Jun has to make sure that the demon working with Shang Qinghua is not only talented in logistics and finance but also amenable to working with humans and trustable. They would be working in close quarters to Shang Qinghua all the time, and there are many out there who would love to harm Qinghua in order to target Mobei Jun.

After going through hundreds of demons in the short span of time when Shang Qinghua is away on An Ding, Mobei Jun finally decides on one.

Bichen is an ice demon. Solemn and quite as Mobei Jun has gathered from his interview and he almost looks human if not for his deathly pale skin and golden hair and claws.

He also has prior work experience as an advisor in a court and his family owes Mobei Jun a life debt, thus he had come to honor it and offer his services. That is as good an indicator of character as he can get so after a little reluctance Mobei Jun affirms his decision to him.

The demon looks a little surprised as he must have seen so many before him getting rejected but he just nods and bows in reverence and thanks him quietly.

Mobei Jun likes him already. There is only one person's chatter he is amenable to and anything other than that is a pain to his ears .So the small and clipped but to the point answers Bichen seems to bestow make him better than half of his court already.

Mobei Jun hopes Shang Qinghua will take a liking to him as well and that he will prove to be useful for Qinghua.

✨✨✨✨✨

Shang Qinghua loves him.

Chapter Text

The happiness and excitement on Shang Qinghua's face, when he is presented with his new assistant in Mobei Jun's quarter, makes the days worth of headache worth it.

"My king!" Shang Qinghua exclaims in excitement. "Are you really giving him- I mean his services to me!?"

Mobei Jun slightly tilts his head in acknowledgment, silently pleased to have his gift be received with such ardour.

"I can't believe it! So I can make him do whatever I want?"

"Whatever Qinghua wants. Bichen answers to no one other than Qinghua and this king."

Shang Qinghua claps his hand together, eyes filling with wonder.
"My king is truly the most gracious! Thank you so much my king! You have no idea how much you have helped this lowly servant."

Mobei Jun lets out a displeased grunt at Shang Qinghua calling himself a servant again but other than that he is quite satisfied with himself and his decision.

Shang Qinghua finally focuses his attention on the other demon who had been silently standing on the side until now. "Come forward Bichen. Come here ! Let me see you."

Bichen steps forward and slightly bows to Shang Qinghua in respect.
" This servant awaits Lord Shang's orders."

Shang Qinghua laughs." Aiyah! Don't go calling me such big titles now. I might think I'm someone of high status ahaha!" Bichen looks slightly perplexed, because Shang Qinghua actually is someone of high status
but nods in agreement. "What shall I refer Lord Shang as then?"

"You can call me by name of course! I'm not someone -"
Mobei Jun grunts in disagreement. The thought of this demon calling his Qinghua by name not sitting right with him. Names are intimate and should not be given out freely.

"Call him by his title only." Mobei Jun frowns at Bichen.

"As Dawang says. Lord Shang?"

"So stubborn. At least call me advisor Shang as everyone else then. You are really making me feel to too old." Shang Qinghua tuts.

Bichen looks between him and Shang Qinghua, awaiting Mobei Jun's approval. Shang Qinghua sets his pleading eyes on him as well, and Mobei Jun hasn't been doing very well with them lately , so he nods in acknowledgment.

"Very well done! So bichen! hmm let me guess...." Shang Qinghua scratches his head in thought and then his eyes light up with thought like they often do whenever he remembers an old detail suddenly and excitedly points at Bichen.

"You are from Zhan clan aren't you!"

Bichen nods in agreement. Mobei Jun notices that he rarely uses words where they are not needed. Good.

Shang Qinghua nods happily in response. "Waah! Zhan clan truly lives up to their name. Such beauty and elegance! Only a few demons possess it. Truly an anomaly ha!"

Mobei Jun's thought process halts for a second. Beauty? What is in this demon that Shang Qinghua finds so beautiful! Mobei Jun sets his piercing gaze on Bichen who is unable to come up with a response to all the praise.

Shang Qinghua seems to notice his mood in change as well and immediately placates him.
"Of course no one comes to par with my king!
He is truly unmatched in his prowess."
So this new demon is beautiful and elegant but Mobei Jun is only strong. Does Qinghua not find him pleasing to the eyes? He can feel his mood spoiling a little further.

Shang Qinghua has already moved onto the next topic now. "I have so much to teach you Oh my God! Its going to be a lot in the start but please bear with me okay.Once you get the hang of it, it will be easier. As easy as it can get in the northern palace ahahah! but you get what I mean right? You will -"

"Qinghua." Mobei Jun interrupts Shang Qinghua's rambling before he exhausts himself ,as Bichen is quiet out of politeness and respect.

"He is already familiar with the basics."

"Really! That's even better. We shall just move onto the real work then! Come on come on there's so much to do bichen! With the monthly Northern banquet coming up we have to make so many arrangements! " Shang Qinghua is already turning to the door with bichen in tow .
"My king! Allow us to leave please and good luck for the court!" Shang Qinghua bows to him and they leave.

Their hasty departure leaves a slightly bitter taste in Mobei Jun's mouth. It is a very common occurrence with Shang Qinghua being busy all the time but one thing that irritates Mobei Jun today is Bichen leaving with him and getting to be in Shang Qinghua's company while Mobei Jun has to go hold a court for a bunch of idiotic demons who think they are too clever for their own good.

And the fact that Shang Qinghua finds that demon... beautiful. It irritates him more than he thought something ever could, nagging in the back of his mind.

He teleports to the court in hopes that someone makes a mistake today and gives him a reason to kill a demon or ten to calm his stormy mood.

✨✨✨✨✨✨

The day passes by in a haste or rather Mobei Jun does everything faster than usual to go see Shang Qinghua. He has been unable to get the human out of his mind, and though it happens often enough,today his thoughts were even more scattered, fixing on Shang Qinghua and that new demon leaving together.

Mobei Jun teleports himself directly in front of Shang Qinghua's room as soon as he adjourns his court. At least, meeting with Qinghua will placate some of the unease he has been feeling throughout the day. He enters the room with a flourish only to find it empty.
It is already night and usually by this time Shang Qinghua is working away on scrolls in his room .Sometimes, if he finishes it early he comes to have dinner with Mobei Jun.

Mobei Jun moves to his own quarters in hopes of finding him there but finds them empty as well, getting more and more agitated.

He calls upon a servant angrily.
A demon comes in shuffling on his feet nervously.

"Where is Qinghua?"

"Advisor Shang has gone to visit his peak."

Mobei Jun frowns. Qinghua did not tell him anything about going to An Ding and he has already finished his weekly work there.
"H-he was saying something about s-showing his new assistant around my lord."

The demon stutters out , well aware of his stormy mood. Mobei Jun feels anger surge through his veins at the statement, chilling everything around.

That lowly demon in Shang Qinghua's personal quarters? Mobei Jun is going to kill him.

Mobei Jun immediately teleports himself to Shang Qinghua's home for some reason expecting to meet an incriminating sight, but what he sees is Shang Qinghua sitting and chattering off Bichen's ear while reading off from a scroll. The demon standing a respectful distance away from Shang Qinghua and listening aptly.

Shang Qinghua squeaks as he notices his presence and Bichen bows to him politely.

"My king! What are you doing here? Why haven't you retired for the night."

"What is he doing here?" Mobei Jun glares at Bichen who looks up to meet his eyes for a second and then lowers them again.

"Oh him! Since you had already shown him the ropes of palace's work I thought I'll teach him something from here .He refused to retire without doing any work my king. Very hardworking, this one! He won't even come sit with me." Shang Qinghua smiles while pointing at Bichen and Mobei Jun seethes again. He probably would have actually killed Bichen if he had found them sitting close together.

"He is not allowed to come here!"

Shang Qinghua's face falls. " My king?"

"You! Don't come here to Qinghua's home again!" Mobei Jun thunders and warns Bichen, hands bristling with the itch to do something, the temperature around them falling with his ire.

" As my Lord wishes." Bichen acquiesces easily.

"Ahahah! My mistake, my mistake my king! I shouldn't - shouldn't have brought your demonic workforce to do my measly work here. This servant understands!"

Shang Qinghua's laugh sounds fake like it does with most demonic officials he has to make acquaintances with. Mobei Jun frowns.

Mobei Jun had appointed an assistant to lessen Qinghua's workload and half of his work is here on An ding.Now, Shang Qinghua just looks a little sad at the snatched opportunity and Mobei Jun does not like it.

Mobei Jun sighs , grabs Bichen by the collar and teleports them to his own room in a second.

Bichen's eyes widen slightly. "My lord?"
He never stutters and gets scared.Mobei Jun will have to rectify that.

"You." The air is practically crackling with cold murder intent . "Dare lay a finger on Qinghua and see what I can do to you."

Bichen lowers his eyes and bows. "Of course my lord. This one understands his place. I shall never bring any harm to my lord Qinghua."

"And pleasure."

"What?"

"No harm. No pleasure. Just do your work as he assigns you. Anything else and this king will see to it personally that nobody can find even your bone ashes. "

Bichen's face clicks in recognition. "Oh. Yes my lord. I will take care of consort Shang? From afar of course." He sounds a little unsure at the word consort but Mobei Jun hums, pleased. This demon is intelligent.

"Very well then."

Mobei Jun teleports them back again, in front of a surprised Qinghua , deeming the warning enough to keep Bichen away.

"My king! I was about to head to the palace myself! What happened?"

"He may work here."

Shang Qinghua's eyes widen with happiness again lips widening with a smile, and there are a lot of things Mobei Jun can tolerate to see that look, even a lowly demon that Qinghua finds beautiful.

"Mm."

"You are the best my king! Thank you so much!You don't-"

"But-" Mobei Jun interrupts again.

"He cannot sit besides you."

"Oh? Why- okay whatever.As long as he shares my burden I'm fine with it!"

Mobei Jun hopes he doesn't regret his decision.

Chapter Text

For  three weeks, Mobei Jun barely catches a sight of Shang Qinghua and it has him in a snappy mood all the time.
Appointing Bichen was supposed to take the stress off Shang Qinghua's shoulders not having him scurrying around chanting ' We have so much to do.' and 'Just a few days my king!', while barely sitting down with Mobei Jun for three weeks.

The last promise is the only thing keeping Mobei Jun silent for now. Even though, he has been thinking of any and every way of kicking Bichen out who has been tailing Qinghua around like a shadow. But every plan brings with it the possibility of Shang Qinghua's unhappiness, so Mobei Jun is reluctant.

The only safest way possible is if Bichen makes even the slightest mistake and Mobei Jun finds a reason to take out his ire.
He has been on the outlook like a hound, but that demon is too good at what he does. He is always standing a polite distance from Shang Qinghua, listening and following orders quietly and if Shang Qinghua's gushes of praise are anything to go by, he is good at it too. Exceptional even.

So getting rid of Bichen is not an option at the moment.

It is these kind of thoughts running through his mind that have Mobei Jun being awake late into the night. He huffs and finally settles on a stool to comb his own hair as he had sent away the servants before, too exasperated with this Qinghua less life. Any and every person has been getting on his nerves lately.

There is a very slight knock on the door and then the door slides open quietly. There is only person who would dare to enter his chambers unannounced this late at night.

Mobei Jun looks up with hope in his heart and indeed it is Shang Qinghua peeking through the door. He startles at the sight of Mobei Jun up and awake.

"My king! Why are you still awake at this hour? I thought you would be sleeping." Shang Qinghua comes inside and closes the door after him.The question carries a hint of worry and something unexplainable happens in Mobei Jun's chest. The sight of Shang Qinghua in his comfortable night robes and open hair being something he had missed more than he thought. Now that Qinghua is here, it feels like half of his worries have evaporated, leaving him considerably lighter.

Before all this, Shang Qinghua would occasionally come to have dinner with Mobei Jun in his chambers, if not more then at least once a week. Those dinners were one of the reasons , Qinghua had gotten so comfortable with him and also allowed Mobei Jun to observe the peak lord in a more cosy environment .

But these past three weeks had Mobei Jun getting disappointed at the slightest sound of footsteps during dinner. Perking up ,only to find out it was not his human outside his room-waiting with a bright smile and a pile of funny anecdotes from around the palace to share with him -but someone insignificant passing the hall.

"Qinghua?" The slightest ting of hope and wonder bleeds into the single word.

"Sorry for intruding so late my king. Its just that I got free after so long ,so I thought I would check up on you." He shuffles on his feet by the door. Qinghua thought to check on him. He cares for him.

"Its nothing. Come here. " He beckons the peak lord to come closer Normally he would sit with Qinghua on the low table , as is appropriate for a king and his advisor but something about the night and Shang Qinghua's easy demeanor has him bolder than usual.

Shang Qinghua steps forward, until he is standing close. They look at eachother for a moment, Mobei Jun sitting on his stool and Qinghua peering down at him sweetly with his hands fastened behind his back.

"Let me my king." The charged moment is broken with Shang Qinghua's voice as he takes the comb from Mobei Jun's hands.

Mobei Jun lets him and Shang Qinghua comes to stand behind him, combing through his hair softly.

"Qinghua has been absent lately."

"My apologies my king. Its just that at first I was trying to teach Bichen everything and then-" Mobei Jun's mouth feels bitter at the name of Bichen in such a private moment but he lets Qinghua rant. "We found out that his way of doing things is a little different than mine. But some of his ideas were actually good! So I was happy to incorporate them into the system."

"Mhm." Mobei Jun hums to let know that he is listening. The comb sifting through his hair is soothing and Qinghua's talk if he ignores Bichen's name is very nice to hear too after a long time. Mobei Jun closes his eyes.

"What took the most time was organizing the vaults though. There have been a few incidents because of the conflicting spiritual energies of different tools and weapons so-"

"Was Qinghua hurt?" Mobei Jun tilts his head with a frown.

"Oh no my king! This serv- this one is completely fine." Mobei Jun hums satisfied both at his well being and the avoidance of the word servant.

"So as I was saying, we have organized everything into a few different categories based on similar spiritual energies. It was so draining too! trying to feel and categorize every single little trinket's energy since My king has collected so much!"

Mobei Jun hums , pleased again that Shang Qinghua finds his collection of prizes impressive. Everything eventually belongs to Qinghua as well.

"Qinghua is very hard working."

"Ahahah! You are too generous my king!" A combing hand leaves his hair for a moment and Mobei Jun knows that he is scratching his head bashfully at the praise.

"You deserve it."

Qinghua is quiet for a while after that, doing his work diligently. The comfortable silence treads on. Mobei Jun can almost imagine this being a routine once Qinghua becomes his consort. He would help Mobei Jun with his hair and dress every night and Mobei Jun would do the same for him. And then they will lay on their bed together, Qingha ranting about his day and-

"It is all done my king!"

He pops out of Mobei Jun's back to stand in front of him again. It is so easy ,to fall under the spell of this unsuspecting person.

"I should probably head out now my king. Bichen is still working on a technique to let new tools- ahh!" There is not much going through his head when Mobei Jun grabs his wrist to pull him into his lap. Shang Qinghua's sentence trails off into a yelp and he almost falls but Mobei Jun grabs his thighs to relocate him so he is firmly perched sideways with his legs dangling on one side.

"M-my king?" Shang Qinghua looks at him with wide questioning eyes.

"I was having difficulty in hearing you." It is not true.

"T-this servant was speaking being mindful of the late hour." Qinghua looks away and lowers his head wringing his fingers in his lap.

Mobei Jun tuts. Low and right beside Shang Qinghua's ear. "Qinghua is not a servant."

Shang Qinghua gulps and steals a look at him again. His big eyes are demure for once instead of distressed or harried and Mobei Jun immensely likes that look on his beautiful face.

He puts a finger beneath the nervous human's chin and tips his head to the side to face him, raising his eyebrow in question.

"As my king says." Shang Qinghua acquiesces with a squeak.

"Hmm. Good." Mobei Jun studies the gradually reddening face with interest, the trembling eyes and beautifully quivering lips tempting him. He lets his thumb trace over the soft line of Qinghua's jaw, marvelling over the soft skin.

A shiver passes through Shang Qinghua's form.
"Is Qinghua feeling cold?"

"Yes my king.I left my thicker robe in the room so I-" He meets Mobei Jun's piercing stare and falters in his sentence.

"Should this king pass some spiritual energy to Qinghua?" Mobei Jun suggests, half with the intention of actually helping him and half because his mind is preoccupied with the fact that one way to transfer spiritual energy is through lips. Qinghua's lips are extremely enticing and plump, a bit bitten because of their owner's nervous habits and Mobei Jun has been wanting to feel them against his for a long time now.

Will Qinghua mind if Mobei Jun takes his lips between his right now? The mood seems right and worst comes worst Mobei Jun can say he was just trying to help him since it is an effective method. Very effective method.

His resolve strengthens and just when he is about to follow through a knock on the door startles them. Shang Qinghua scrambles off his lap hurriedly as if stung.

"My king? Advisor Shang?" A voice calls out unsuredly.

Of course its Bichen. Mobei Jun feels livid, fingertips tingling.

"Oh its Bichen! I told him to find me as soon as he finds the solution to our problem. I shall take my leave my king!" Shang Qinghua exclaims with an excitement that doesn't sound very real and almost dashes for the door, scrambling in his haste to open it and get out.

Mobei Jun doesn't utter a single word in fear that if he speaks he is just going to order to kill Bichen. The moment has been shattered and whatever elation Mobei Jun was feeling in Shang Qinghua's company is almost gone, except not completely because Mobei Jun is still feeling the warmth and feel of Qinghua in his arms. Something he has been imagining for quite some time now.

At least, it is a step towards getting closer and Mobei Jun is satisfied enough with that. For now.

Shang Qinghua is a nervous creature and if fed too much in a day might run away with fear. So one step at a time is it.

As for Bichen , he should be praying for an easy death for when Mobei Jun finally gets his hands on him.

Chapter Text

As Shang Qinghua had promised -after a few more days, he suddenly seems to have more free time on his hand. He starts coming to have dinner with Mobei Jun in his room, more and more frequently. Once a week turns into alternate days and then four to five days a week until Mobei Jun rarely has dinner alone.

Mobei Jun is delighted at this new development and murdering Bichen is postponed for this very reason. As much as Mobei Jun would love to squash the thorn in his side and have Qinghua's attention all to himself rather than a lowly demon Qinghua finds 'beautiful', it is all because of him in the end that Shang Qinghua is spending more time with Mobei Jun.

However, a chance such as pulling Shang Qinghua in his lap again has not yet presented itself again because Qinghua is even more skittish after that one incident, just as Mobei Jun had predicted. He seems to jump at any contact and a few bold attempts had resulted in almost screams and Shang Qinghua sweating even in the freezing temperatures of the north.

So , Mobei Jun is treading carefully. A little accidental brush of hands here, a head pat there. Nothing that cannot be passed off as the ice king being his usual aloof self but at the same time allows Mobei Jun to ground himself with tangible proof and the knowledge that Qinghua is with him.

During such another dinner, Mobei Jun listens to Shang Qinghua chatting away while eating his bowl of noodles. He had already finished his dinner while Shang Qinghua was caught up in telling him stories, so now he is relaxed , face propped up on a hand as he observes Shang Qinghua after a long day.

The peak lord had requested for extra spicy noodles today so his eyes are red rimmed and his lips are a little swollen and pink with the spice, shining from the broth of noodles. Mobei Jun licks his own lips subconsciously while staring.

"-king. My king!"

Mobei Jun blinks when Shang Qinghua waves his hands infront of his eyes.

"There you are. Am I boring you too much? You were zoned out my king. "

"No I just- what was Qinghua asking?"

"I asked if you would like to visit the vaults and see what we have done my king. Bichen and I have worked really hard on it."

"Mhm. If Qinghua wishes."

"Great!" Shang Qinghua claps his hand once and gets up immediately. "I'm done with my dinner here. Let me accompany you there my king."

Mobei Jun follows after him leisurely, listening to Qinghua's explanation of what he was going to show him and how hard he had worked on it. Together with Bichen but he conveniently tunes out that part only focusing on Shang Qinghua.

The doors to the vaults are already open when they arrive there.

"What? I already told him to go rest a while ago. What is he - Bichen?"

Shang Qinghua enters the big room while murmuring to himself. Mobei Jun's mood turns a little sour. A few moments of solidarity with Qinghua, tainted yet again by that Bichen.

The demon in question is standing in the middle of the room with an armor in hand that was gifted to Mobei Jun by a western clan in the court today together with some other things.

He looks up at the intrusion and greets with his customary bow."My lord. Advisor Shang."

"Bichen why haven't you gone to sleep yet?"
Shang Qinghua places his hands on his hips and inquires strictly. It is almost strange to watch Qinghua in this authoritative role, when he is usually so deferential around Mobei Jun. Mobei Jun finds that he likes it. Qinghua should be firm with everyone besides him.

"My apologies advisor Shang. These artifacts came in late when advisor Shang had already retired to my lor- , to his room." Here Bichen raises one eyebrow a little while looking at Shang Qinghua. "So I decided to put them away on my own."

Shang Qinghua's ears look a little pink and he clears his throat. "Whatever. This could have been done tomorrow as well. You have to take care of yourself so you don't fall sick Bichen!"

Mobei Jun glares at the other demon from behind Shang Qinghua at the blatant display of concern from his human. Bichen meets his eyes for a second and then bows his head to Shang Qinghua.

"I understand Lord Shang's concern about my health in the fear of falling behind on work. I shall take better care of myself from now on."
Mobei Jun can hear the prominent message in that statement, Bichen making clear that Shang Qinghua's concern for him only extends to the work he does for him. Mobei Jun nods, satisfied at that.

Shang Qinghua nods. "Very well then. Now that you are here anyways, let's show my king what we have created!" The excitement on Qinghua's face has Mobei Jun curious too. Shang Qinghua has been talking about this for a long time now.

He had already noticed a huge circular array drawn in the center of the room, where everything had been pushed to the walls to make space. There are ten stones strategically, placed on the edges of it , shining with different colors.

"Tada! " Shang Qinghua presents it to him with wide arms as if Mobei Jun hadn't mapped out the whole room before entering, as is his habit. Still, he hums as if seeing it for the first time. "What has Qinghua made?"

"It is a spiritual array my king. You place any object in the center of it and it will automatically be pulled towards one of these spiritual stones that represent the ten different spiritual classes we have roughly classified all the artifacts into. Bichen! Please show us an example?"

Bichen moves obediently and puts the armor he was holding in the center of the circle. The armor glows with a purple shine and then inches towards a purple stone placed to its left. Mobei Jun hums at the impressive speed it worked. It is very nice work for someone who does not even specialize in arrays and talismans. As always his Qinghua is brilliant.

"The best part is that if you activate the array once you can use it as many times as you want and then deactivate when you are done! No need to put in your spiritual energy for every single object. How do you like it my king!" Shang Qinghua finishes his explanation and looks at him hopefully, eager to see his reaction.

Mobei Jun raises his hand and pats Shang Qinghua's head softly. "Qinghua has done a very good job." The peak lord beams up at him, smiling widely, one of the genuine ones he seems to showcase rarely and in private only and as always it melts Mobei Jun's walls a little.

Someone clears their throat from the side and Shang Qinghua jumps slightly. Mobei Jun glares at Bichen again for interrupting.

"Oh of course how can we forget! Bichen worked even harder than me my king. He deserves some praise too." Shang Qinghua looks at him with twinkling eyes and Mobei Jun is caught up in a dilemma because he does not want to lavish Bichen with any more praise than Qinghua already does.

At last he gives in and mutters out a "Good work." indignantly for Qinghua's happiness. Shang Qinghua beams and at least that makes it worth it.

Bichen bows deferentially. "My lords are gracious to acknowledge this one's work."

"Of course! You are lucky you got praised by The Mobei Jun and that too so early in your job. You don't even know how many years it took this poor lord. Ah old days old days."

Mobei Jun feels a twinge of displeasure and guilt as he always does at the mention of the past. If it was possible ,he would go back and change everything. He would treat Qinghua like he truly deserves, from the very start.
But what is done is done. All he can do now is try to prove his worth to Qinghua who is still so loyal to him, even after all the abysmal treatment he had suffered at Mobei Jun's hand.

"It was this king's shortcomings. Qinghua has been very good from the start. I apologize." Mobei Jun says sincerely, slightly tilting his head too.

Shang Qinghua's eyes widen and Bichen looks surprised too. For a demon king to accept his mistake in front of his subordinates- it is truly rare but Shang Qinghua is his future consort. What is a man if he can't lower himself for his mate.

"My king.Don't slight yourself like this in front of others!" Qinghua says exasperated, frowning while glancing at Bichen who looks away pointedly.

Mobei Jun feels- smug. Qinghua feeling affronted on his behalf and treating Bichen like an outsider fills him with inexplicable giddiness. "Very well. As Qinghua says. " He acquiesces easily to Shang Qinghua's command.

Before Shang Qinghua can say something else, Bichen clears his throat again.
"Advisor Shang. What about that stone you made?" The ice demon changes the topic smoothly and Shang Qinghua looks relieved.

"Stone? Which stone?" He scratches his head in confusion and then his eyes widen. "Bichen!" He glares at the said demon and they both seem to have a frantic conversation with their eyes.

Mobei Jun watches on curiously.
"My lord. " Bichen adresses him while Shang Qinghua shakes his head trying to stop him futilely. "Advisor Shang has something to give you."

"Bichen! You-"

"Qinghua?"

"Ahaha! My king it is truly nothing noteworthy for you to see. It is just-"

"I wish to see it regardless." Mobei Jun watches Shang Qinghua direct another glare at Bichen who looks completely calm and reaches in his sleeves to take out a small diamon shaped charm, pale green in color.

"H-here my king. It is nothing really. Certainly not for my king who has conquered countless and priceless treasures!" Shang Qinghua hands it over while rambling nervously.

"Qinghua made it for me?" Mobei Jun turns the little stone in his palm and notices that it is thrumming with a familiar energy. Qinghua's spiritual energy.

"I mean of course I didn't carve it, ahaha! I just- that is to say.."

"It is suffused with advisor Shang's spiritual energy." Bichen butts in when Shang Qinghua trails off.

Mobei Jun looks at Shang Qinghua who looks down wringing his hands nervously.

" It works on almost the same mechanism as the array my king. If you put some of your qi into it , it will pull you in my direction. "

Mobei Jun lets a tendril of qi pour into the shiny stone in his hand and as expected he can feel it pulling towards where Shang Qinghua is standing. It is not a physical force , rather a little nudge in the right direction. Towards Qinghua.

It is beautiful.

"It does not work for long distances my lord."Bichen explains again. "Preferably in the same room. It is an ornamental tool rather than a practical one. More suited for marri-"

"Well well!" Shang Qinghua squeaks and butts in. " Since you are so benevolent towards this lowly advisor and keep sending me gifts , I thought I should give you something too. Do you like it my king? Of course it is not what -"

Mobei Jun encases the courting gift in his fist carefully and nods towards Shang Qinghua.
"This king accepts it."

"-my king deserves but... What?"

"I said I accept Qinghua's gift."

Shang Qinghua blinks at him and then nods unsurely. "So.. do you like it or not?"

"Anything Qinghua gives is to this king's liking." Mobei Jun reassures him again. Shang Qinghua's cheeks turn an interesting shade of pink. "I will carry it on me always."

"Now that is too much my king! You can.. keep it.. wherever you like."Shang Qinghua clears his throat.
"Oh would you look at that ! So much time has already passed. I must sleep so I can wake up early. Allow this servant to leave my king! Have a good night!" Shang Qinghua almost trips over himself in his haste to leave the room, scurrying away with hurried footsteps.

Mobei Jun watches him slink away. His Qinghua is shy after all.

"Allow this servant to leave as well my lord. I have already put away everything." Bichen's amused voice cuts in his musings.

For once even Bichen's presence is not enough to spoil Mobei Jun's good mood. He looks at the shiny charm once more when Bichen is gone, feeling the thrum of Qinghua's energy in it and then hooks it on the belt around his waist

The charm clinks in the quiet of the night as Mobei Jun strolls towards his room unhurriedly, a barely there smile playing on his lips.

Chapter Text

Mobei Jun feels restless. Second night in a row , Shang Qinghua has cancelled their routine dinner. Although Mobei Jun has seen the human prattling around the palace and assisting him in the court room in daytime. It is not the same as their private night routine which allows Mobei Jun an indulgent peek into their future domestic life.

Even the dinner tastes bland without Shang Qinghua's chatter to accompany it,so he makes quick work of finishing it and laying to sleep .After a few unsual toss and turns, he gets out of the bed with a hiss. He never has difficulty in sleeping before so it has started to get irritating.

After a few contemplating moments, he makes way to Shang Qinghua's room. He will just take a look and reassure that Qinghua is okay and soundly asleep before going to bed himself.

The halls are quite and dark as the seconds creep into midnight. A few palace guards stand to attention at his presence but Mobei Jun ignores them to make his way through the muddy darkness.

He could have teleported to Shang Qinghua's room directly but somehow it feels a breach of privacy this late into the night.

He knocks very lightly so as not to disturb the sleeping peak lord but alert him in case he is awake. A careful peek into the room reveals it to be empty.

Mobei Jun frowns. Shang Qinghua had claimed to be too tired to have dinner and gone to sleep instead. So why is he not in his room.

The palace gaurd a few paces away comes scampering instead.
"Your majesty. Lord Shang left his room a while ago." He bows deep while informing him.

"Where did he go?" If Qinghua had gone to An Ding Peak, he would have teleported straight from his room instead of leaving through the door here.

"Please forgive this servant for he is unaware." If the demon bows any deeper his forehead might touch the ground. Mobei Jun huffs in irritation.

"But if my Lord wishes , this one can go find Lord Shang."

"No need." Mobei Jun is feeling too jittery to stand in a place anyways. Even though a lot of time has passed since the incident when he had almost lost Shang Qinghua for good , it still sets his teeth on edge whenever he is unaware of his human's whereabouts for too long.

As if he will blink and Qinghua will be gone again, happy and away from Mobei Jun. He clenches his fist as he checks every possible place Shang Qinghua could be found at.

The kitchen Qinghua likes to visit for nightly food cravings. The vaults he tends to be found in at most random of times when he suddenly remembers a task he had left unfinished. The library where he tends to sit for hours , bent over the small desk writing God knows what.

Mobei Jun warms up the charm Qinghua has given him in his hand and visits the door of every place in the search of its owner. But every room is empty of the one person Mobei Jun is itching to see.

There is only one last place left and if Qinghua is not found there as well , Mobei Jun will have to visit An Ding peak. The garden at the back of the palace that Qinghua likes to visit sometimes. It is a quite and empty place , devoid of any other servants or gaurds most of the time because the wall it is situated against is already heavily gaurded from the outside.
A few times Mobei Jun has seen the peak lord sitting on a bench there in the afternoons ,staring at the sparse trees while looking deep in thought . It is quite cold at this time of the night so Mobei Jun had left this option for the last.

As he gets closer to the small garden in the back of the palace , the stone in his hand starts thrumming more and more. Oh, finally.

A few steps away Mobei Jun can hear someone talking, a male voice but too far to be distinct. Who could Qinghua be here with at this hour. He doesn't have any close friends in the palace to be having friendly nights out in the gardens so Mobei Jun is a little suprised.

Just when he is close enough to hear it clearly, it is Qinghua exclaiming with a sigh. "Ah, what a loss."

"Qinghua?" Mobei Jun calls out before turning the dark corner that leads straight into the garden.

There is a squeak and a rustle of sounds. Just as Mobei Jun turns the corner he almost collides with a rattled Shang Qinghua trying to take the turn hastily.

"My King!" The surprised peak lord exclaims with voice a little too loud for the quiet hour of the night. He is a little out of breath with a nervous smile plastered on his lips.

Mobei Jun frowns.

"What is Qinghua doing here this late?"

"Oh its nothing! I was just trying to get some fresh air. I don't know why but my room felt a bit suffocating today."

"I heard some noises." Mobei Jun tries to look into the garden but Shang Qinghua jumps in front of him. It is not of much use since with their size difference Mobei Jun can still see above Shang Qinghua's head. A quick look around tells him that there really is no one around.

"Of course you did my king! It was me. I was talking to myself! You know how it is when I get restless. I just go on and on ahaha-"

"Why is Qinghua restless?" A closer look indeed reveals Shang Qinghua looking a little paler than usual , lips a little blue despite the thick blue cloak around his shoulders. "Are you falling sick?"

"What! No. I was just enjoying the night.The moon looks particularly beautiful tonight my king." Shang Qinghua's voice becomes a little wistful , staring at the moon in the sky, burrowing a little further in his cloak.

The moonlight reflects off his round eyes making them look shiny, while his round features cause delectable blue shadows across his face. Standing there bundled up in Mobei Jun's colors, and bathed in cool blue moonlight, he leaves Mobei Jun stunned for a second.

The ice king gulps and instead of asking any more questions decides to take the opportunity for what it is.

"Then let this king accompany you." Mobei Jun takes a step further but Shang Qinghua stops him again by a hand that almost touches his chest but doesn't in the end.
A twinge of disappointment makes itself known inside his chest ,and Mobei Jun realizes that he hasn't touched Qinghua in two days. Not even the slightest brush of the fingers that he occasionally sneaks in during their dinners. His fingers itch with the loss.

"It is too cold out here my king. And I'm quite tired as well. I wish to retire to my room now." Shang Qinghua says with regretful eyes.

Mobei Jun lets out a very small imperceptible sigh and nods. Seems like he will have to wait till tomorrow night to spend some quality alone time with Qinghua.

"Will Qinghua accompany this king for dinner tomorrow?"

Shang Qinghua looks guilty at the reminder. "Yes. yes My king. This servant apologizes for- ah!" The sentence trails off into a yelp as Qinghua trips on a stone while attempting to walk forward towards him.

Mobei Jun who is standing right there moves to catch him swiftly, arms wrapping around his waist but they slip to his hips automatically, hands trying to steady the human when Shang Qinghua falls forward while flailing .

It takes a few seconds for the peak lord to get his bearings back from the sudden fall and during those few seconds all Mobei Jun can feel is the warmth radiating off the other body . Qinghua had opened his arms to catch a support when falling so the cloak had parted as well, allowing Mobei Jun to hold him under its thick skin, over his usual robes.

His hands tighten involuntarily because of the unusual body heat that seeps through his palms and the flesh under his hand gives, revealing the softness of it.

Shang Qinghua lets out another small yelp and straightens up leaving Mobei Jun's hands hanging in the air between them, empty.

"T-thankyou my king! I would have cracked my skull open if you didn't catch me on time!." That brings Mobei Jun out of the little daze he had fallen in at the feel of that soft rear beneath his palms and he checks over Shang Qinghua for any possible injuries , ignoring the irregular thumping of his own heart.

"Are you hurt anywhere?"

"No no I'm just- " Shang Qinghua trails off with a slight hiss when he tries to walk again.
"I think my foot twisted a little but nothing a night of rest won't fix so I should definitely take my leave now. Thankyou for the save my king!"

Shang Qinghua takes a few steps with a slight grimace making his way to his room after bowing to him slightly.

Mobei Jun follows after him and after two more slow steps stops Qinghua with a hand on his shoulder. Shang Qinghua looks back with questioning eyes.

"Let this king help you properly." With this Mobei Jun bends to secure an arm beneath his knees and picks him effortlessly, gauging the comfortable weight in his arms.

"My king!!" Shang Qinghua's exclaim is a near yell. "What are you doing!?"

"I'm carrying Qinghua to his room since he is injured.

"You-you-" Shang Qinghua tries with a red face but his arms tighten around Mobei Jun when he starts moving. "I can perfectly walk on my own. Please put me down my king." He pleads with urgent eyes.

Mobei Jun spares him a glance and the sight of Shang Qinghua in his arms is as delectable as he had imagined, his small and soft frame fitting perfectly against Mobei Jun's hard chest. Mobei Jun hums, pleased with the situation.

He could have easily teleported them to Qinghua's room but he is feeling a little too generous today so the long way it is.

He turns a corner and some palace gaurds come into view, their eyes widening at the unusual sight. Shang Qinghua sees them as well and hides his face in shame , unintentionally burrowing into Mobei Jun's chest further, which just pleases the smug demon even more.

"What must the others think my king. This is too! too-"

"Hmm?" Mobei Jun is amused at Shang Qinghua's worries. Because even though the sight is unusual, everyone in the palace already knows that Qinghua is his future consort. These kind of sights, they are bound to become normal sooner than later so there is not much to think for others. "Qinghua worries too much."

"And you worry too less my king!" Qinghua's says exasperatedly, getting out of his hiding place to give him a look and then hides his face again.

Mobei Jun smiles a little at the cute gesture and the rest of the path is covered in silence, Mobei Jun appreciating the warmth against his body quietly.
The night duty gaurds keep giving them suprised and amused looks and it only makes Mobei Jun walk with his head held even higher, glad to show off his claim on his human infront of everyone else. Everyone must see with their own eyes that Shang Qinghua is his and no one else is allowed to touch him this way. Though, he doubts anyone would try in the first place.

When they are finally inside the room , Shang Qinghua immediately tries to get down but Mobei Jun doesn't relent until they reach the bed and then lays him carefully on the bed, straightening up after sure that Qinghua is comfortable against the pillows.

Shang Qinghua's ears and cheeks are pink and he avoids meeting his eyes when Mobei Jun looks at his face.

"Thanking my king for his graciousness." He says meekly.

Mobei Jun takes in Qinghua's slightly messy form- lying down with his cloak disheveled , his cheeks turned pink and breathing turned uneven.
He squirms under Mobei Jun's warm gaze and a very vivid image flashes through the demon's mind, with relatively less clothing and much more soft skin on display, Shang Qinghua panting beneath him-

Mobei Jun almost stumbles back in surprise. He had intented to check on Qinghua's foot , spend a little more time with him maybe. But the lingering warmth in his arms and the enticing sight Qinghua makes in his bed could land Mobei Jun in a very uncomfortable situation very quickly, squashing his plans to stay any longer.

Although Mobei Jun has made his intentions clear many times with the courting, Shang Qinghua has not given an explicit answer yet except the little charm he gifted him. There has been no physical intimacy initiated by him especially and Mobei Jun must not burden him with something he is not ready for.

"Qinghua should.. rest. I will see you tomorrow?"

"Yes my king. Good night." Instead of Qinghua only, it is both of them avoiding each other's gaze now as Mobei Jun leaves for his room with a small good night under his breath.

He thinks he hears a muffled scream after he closes the door but his own heart is beating a little too fast to make sense of everything else.

One thing is for sure, he has to make his intentions more clear and get a definite answer from Qinghua because this feeling of longing and mising Shang Qinghua the second he leaves him is getting a bit too much for his taste now.

Chapter Text

Mobei Jun tries to talk to Shang Qinghua about the courting a few times but the timing is never right. Either the human is always distracted by something or the mood never seems to be amicable.

Everytime they have a quiet moment to themselves, Mobei Jun does not feel like ruining it with a serious conversation. He has not recognized it but deep down there is insecurity and fear of getting rejected if he asks Qinghua directly. Yes contrary to everyone, Qinghua has always stayed loyal to him but how long until he gets tired. What if he leaves Mobei Jun in the end like everyone else? What if he finds someone better suited for him? Someone like-

No. Mobei Jun will make sure nothing like that happens.

So as eager as he is for their complete reunion, he stalls.

Until the day of monthly Northern banquet arrives.
Mobei Jun takes one look at Shang Qinghua and decides this is it. This has to be the day.

Contrary to the simple An ding peak robes Qinghua usually prefers around the palace, he has donned on a set of elaborate royal blue robes that Mobei Jun had gifted him.
They are on the fancier side-the outer robe more intricate than the usual ones, embroidered along the sleeves and collar with subtle black thread. An additional brocade layer over the usual plain underrobe ,peeking from the collar and sleeves ,makes the whole attire look more elegant and royal. His hair has been tied up in a simple half up do rather than his usual bun and a few charms and embellishments tinkle along his waist when he moves, all of them been gifted by Mobei Jun at some point

Qinghua looks ethereal. He looks like he belongs to Mobei Jun and the northern palace. Like no one else has a place in his life other than the blue of the north. He leaves the king of the north breathless.

"Qinghua." Mobei Jun can hear the word whisper out of his mouth on instinct , without any second thought.

Shang Qinghua shuffles on his feet from where he is standing in Mobei Jun's door. He had come to accompany Mobei Jun to the hall right before the banquet is about to start.
"My king. Please don't mind this one's looks. I just-"

"Pretty."

"What?"

"Qinghua looks very pretty." Mobei Jun utters out what is going on in his mind like a mantra of the same two words over and over -Qinghua and pretty.

Shang Qinghua laughs nervously. "Oh you like this my king? Its not.. too much?" He looks up at Mobei Jun from under his eyelashes , hand straigtening over the edge of the already perfect robes. The coquettish look he gives unravels something inside Mobei Jun.

"Qinghua looks perfect." He forces himself to say, fists clenching at his sides with the burning need to reach out and- he doesn't now to do what, how much is allowed?How far will be Qinghua willing to go?

Mobei Jun takes a step towards him. The want to find out is more burning than ever inside his chest. There is so much he wants to do, so many things- good as well as bad. Just how many of them will resonate with this person Mobei Jun wants to spend the rest of his life with?

"Qinghua."

"Yes my king? The banquet is about to start, we must.. you should-" Shang Qinghua gulps nervously under his intense gaze. "Is something wrong my king?"

"Qinghua's robes look like mine." Mobei Jun says carefully , instead of saying 'Qinghua looks like mine."

The peak lord's eyes widen and he flicks his sleeves. "I told Bichen these robes will be too much! But he- anyways should I change them? Surely this servant doesn't deserve to be dressed up like.. my king." He utters with lowered eyes.

Mobei Jun frowns. "Was Bichen helping you dress up?" A surge of jealousy shoots up inside him at the mere thought of Bichen being present while Shang Qinghua -

"Not like that! He just helped me to select these robes." Shang Qinghua's explanation disrupts his unfriendly thoughts.

Mobei Jun hums in satisfaction. Good. At least that demon knows to stay away from what is not his. And begrudgingly Mobei Jun has to agree that he is the reason Shang Qinghua is dressed up in Mobei Jun's gift and his colors. Maybe, he should let go of some of the resentment-

Shang Qinghua moves a little while shuffling and a streak of white catches Mobei Jun's eye, stunning his mind quiet. He puts a hand on Shang Qinghua's shoulder and turns him around to see it.

The flash of white is a simple white jade pin with a small golden charm hanging on one side. It does not go well with Qinghua's otherwise blue outfit and most of all it is not Mobei Jun's.

"This pin -" he grits out.

"Oh this!" Shang Qinghua touches it with his fingers and the simple action of his fingers touching the misplaced white jade on his body makes Mobei Jun queasy. He has an idea where this is going.

"Bichen gave it to me. As a token for...uhh he carved it himself. It is beautiful right?"

Shang Qinghua changes the sentence midway. As a token for... As a token for what?

Mobei Jun bristles once the idea takes place in his head. A jade pin carved from one's own hands could only mean one thing. And the fact that Qinghua is wearing it in his hair, so soon too while it had taken him weeks to use any of the stuff Mobei Jun had gifted him makes Mobei Jun feel irate . Even Mobei Jun's robes that he is wearing right now were not on his own volition but on Bichen's coercion.

He doesn't know what is the reason behind it , but all he is seeing now is that pin in Qinghua's soft hair and how it does not belong there. It does not belong anywhere near his Qinghua.

Mobei Jun takes out that pin from Shang Qinghua's hair in a swift move before the other can turn around. Brown locks fall over Shang Qinghua's shoulder in a flurry and flick in the air when the peak lord turns back to face him with wide eyes.

"My king?!"

Mobei Jun opens his fist , looking at the small object in his hand with contempt and then destroys it with a small flare of qi, until no trace of it remains. It brings him a little satisfaction.

Shang Qinghua is looking at his palm with a stupified expression.
"Y-you-"

"Do not wear things from others."

"Why did you destroy it?It.. it was a gift. Someone finally gave me-" Shang Qinghua grits his teeth not saying anything else, still looking at the space where the pin had been a moment ago.

It aggravates Mobei Jun. The way Qinghua is mourning the loss of it. Why does a simple pin hold so much value for Shang Qinghua? Is it because Bichen gave it to him. What place and right does he have in Qinghua's life?

"You can wear one from the ones this king gave you."

Shang Qinghua does not say anything for a moment.

"Qinghua?" Mobei Jun calls out. It is odd to see his human not responding to everything he says with that excited chatter of his. It leaves him restless.

"Very well. How can I defy an order from his majesty. Allow this servant to leave so I can join the banquet in a while."

Shang Qinghua bows, a little too stiff and formal than he usually does and then leaves the room in a flurry of robes, leaving Mobei Jun stunned in his place.

The ball of nerves he had been feeling over confronting Qinghua and asking for an answer intensifies more than ever. He is more unsure than ever about his place in Qinghua's life and heart. And the thought fills him with unbridled anger and anxiety.

Everything had been going well for a long time, at a slow pace that Mobei Jun felt Qinghua would appreciate. And then this lowly demon comes and stays in his Qinghua's life for a short while and makes Mobei Jun question every single thing.

Communicating with Qinghua seems to be more needed than ever. He has to clear the air. He has to make his intentions clear and in case he has another suitor in his pursuit of Qinghua, Mobei Jun has to prove his worthiness and his power to be Qinghua's mate.

It is with these thoughts that he makes his way to the banquet, hoping to find Qinghua as soon as possible.

The banquet is as bustling with chaos as usual. A few of his family members are seated on a high table , leaving spaces for Mobei Jun and Qinghua at the head of the table, while the rest of the demons and palace staff is scattered around sitting at round tables of fours and fives.

The arrangement had been Qinghua's idea and it had proved to be quite suitable for the usual brawls and fights that used to break out
excessively before . Everyone prefers to sit around with choice of their own people that they find amicable now so except a few hot headed demons , the banquets have gotten quiter. As quiet as they can get.

Mobei Jun had a few qualms of his own though because where before he would sit on his throne alone with only Qinghua by his side - he now has to sit at a long family table with a bunch of relatives he doesn't give a shit about except one.

Still, there is hardly anything Mobei Jun will deny Qinghua so he had been amicable to his plan. The man in question is late to the banquet today and after a few unpleasant talks with people Mobei Jun could care less about, he finally arrives, peeking into the hall from the door that the demon king was constantly watching to catch a sight of him.

Mobei Jun feels himself finally relax. Qinghua enters the room and heads towards their table. Bichen in tow, Mobei Jun notices grimly.

Mobei Jun opens his mouth to say something but instead of stopping at their table , Shang Qinghua passes it in a flurry.

"Qinghua." He calls out stopping the peak lord in his tracks who turns and advices Bichen to go take a seat on a table he points towards and then makes his way over to Mobei Jun.

"Yes my king." His hair is tied up in his usual bun again with a simple blue ribbon instead of a pin and he is looking at Mobei Jun with a smile that looks fake. Mobei Jun blinks.

"Where are you heading to?"

"To sit with the rest of the palace staff." The smile doesn't leave his face and it looks misplaced , even on the usually expressive face. Mobei Jun feels unsettled.

"Qinghua should sit here." He trudges on, pointing towards the seat beside him.

"I insist my king." Shang Qinghua says solemnly, smile faltering a little.

Mobei Jun wants to say no. Qinghua should sit with him, at the head of their family table that is his place as Mobei Jun's mate. He wants to throw a tantrum and forbid Qinghua from doing otherwise but he doesn't do it because he wants everyone present to understand Qinghua's place as his equal and not his servant ,who is forced to follow Mobei Jun's every order.

"As Qinghua wishes." He acquiesces softly even though everything in him is shouting to do the opposite. To grab Qinghua and seat him in his lap so he cannot go away.

Shang Qinghua's eyes widen for a second as if he is a little shocked at Mobei Jun's easy approval and then he mutters out a thanks with a formal bow again and leaves with a swish of his robes, ribbon fluttering in the air after him.

It seems that...Shang Qinghua is sulking.
The line of his shoulders is a little tense and he doesn't spare Mobei Jun another glance as he takes his seat on the table he had instructed Bichen to sit at, not very far from his own table.

Mobei Jun is at a loss for words and everytime he tries to catch the peak lord's eye , he is unsuccessful. Instead , Qinghua generously lavishes all his attention on Bichen and a few members of his kitchen staff that are sitting with them, laughing while talking with them animatedly.

Not Qinghua, but Mobei Jun is able to catch Bichen's eye once or twice and each time he does ,he glares with as much contempt as he can, making sure that his murderous intent is clear to the other demon.

Bichen drags his chair a few feet away from Qinghua but before Mobei Jun can revel in their distance, Shang Qinghua leans forward to say something to the other, getting far too close now. The temperature around the hall lessens further with Mobei Jun's increasing ire.

Bichen says something to Qinghua and he grants a blank look to Mobei Jun. Their eyes meet, Qinghua's nonchalant ones to Mobei Jun's impatient ones and then Qinghua looks away immediately, leaning in to whisper something to Bichen again. Mobei Jun positively seethes at being ignored so blatantly in favour of the other demon.

But before he can go over and drag Bichen away by the collar , the hall quietens and then bustles again with a renewed vigor . Mobei Jun looks to see Luo Binghe enter, most of the demons standing and bowing to show respect to their demon lord.

Luo Binghe's presence in the recurring banquets is not new but rare enough that Mobei Jun has to follow some protocol to honor him.

The ice demon welcomes Luo Binghe to sit with him and orders servants to serve him fresh. In the meanwhile Mobei Jun makes pleasantries and briefs the demon lord on all the important matters that had occured while he was gone on his...fifth honeymoon.

"Hmm. This lord takes that everything has been going well then but I don't see that little advisor of yours today."

Mobei Jun glances at the table Qinghua had been sitting at and indeed it is empty of his and Bichen's presence. It alarms him. Where could they both have sneaked off to in the middle of the banquet. When Qinghua is angry with Mobei Jun too. Bichen has now a good a chance to curry his favor.

"Qinghua must be somewhere around here. Why is Lord Luo asking?"

"Nothing much. As you know for whatever reason-" Luo Binghe makes a face. "My shizun seems keen on his company and since they haven't met in a while, ask him to come by. We will be staying at Qing Jing for a while now."

"Very well." Mobei Jun nods and they remain silent until another topic of territory comes up. All the while , Mobei Jun keeps glancing around the hall and the gates to catch a sight of Qinghua and Bichen but to no avail.

If it were anyone other than Luo Binghe , Mobei Jun would have walked out a while ago but as it is he waits until Luo Binghe gets bored enough. At the end , he sneaks in a sentence or two about the demon lord's husband and that's all it takes for Luo Binghe to get up and exclaim he is missing his Shizun so he is leaving.

When that is dealt with, Mobei Jun gets up himself and leaves the hall to search for Qinghua. Asking around, he finds out that no servants have seen him or Bichen in a while, after leaving the banquet.

Mobei Jun's agitation keeps increasing with every searched place they could have been at but turns out to be empty.

By the time, he has taken a look at even the An Ding quarters and found them devoid of life, he is positively bristling.

Just Shang Qinghua's absence is enough to set his teeth on edge but the fact that he has disappeared with Bichen fills Mobei Jun with dread and anger, fingertips tingling with restless qi.

The events of the day have started to catch up on him and he feels like he should have been more assertive in separating Qinghua from that good for nothing demon. Why did he give them a chance to slink away when Qinghua was unhappy with him.

In the end, he has no choice but to wait for Qinghua in the palace. He moves to the throne room instead of his own room when the close quarters aggravate him too much and orders his servants to report to him at the first glimpse of Shang Qinghua and Bichen.

The throne room is freezing with a thin layer of ice and the servants tremble in the face of his bad mood.

Just where is Shang Qinghua!

Chapter Text

Mobei jun keeps pacing around the room unable to sit in a place. He tries to not think about anything adverse but still the worst thoughts make it to his mind. What if Qinghua is hurt? What if it was Bichen's plan all along and now he has kidnapped Qinghua? What if Qinghua has willingly run away from Mobei Jun after the morning's incident-

It is with these kind of thoughts and after what feels like hours of wait,that the door to the throne room creaks open. Mobei Jun had advised the servants to not step inside until they had Shang Qinghua with them or at least some news from him. So it must be-

A round head peeks inside first and then Shang Qinghua enters the room nervously, taking in the iced up condition of the room with wide eyes.

The first feeling washing over Mobei Jun is relief. Qinghua is here. Qinghua is unharmed. He has not left Mobei Jun. Yet.

The second feeling, as Bichen enters after Qinghua, is anger. Unbridled and uncontrollable.

"I told you he has come to know about us!" Shang Qinghua worriedly whispers to Bichen who is standing behind him ,looking rattled for the first time, but the room is empty enough for Mobei Jun's ears to pick up the frantic words. Know what? Where had they disappeared to together for so long? Why does Qinghua feel closer to another demon rather than him?

It is so easy to squash any insecurities and wayward thoughts in imagination but what is he actually supposed to do in the face of them becoming true? How does he deal with it when it involves the person he holds dearest to his heart ?

Mobei Jun clenches his fist. The layer of ice over the room starts hardening even more.

"Qinghua. Explain." He grits his teeth through the words in one last act of civility. He has to give them the benefit of doubt. Qinghua wouldn't- He surely won't -

"M-my king. Since you have already come to know , he-I-I mean-" It has been ages since his human last looked this scared of him. It just confirms Mobei Jun's suspicions even more. His palm thrums with restless energy.
"Bichen would like to...to ask for your permission to court-"

"How dare you!" Mobei Jun's outburst shakes the whole room to its roots. Just looking at Bichen with murderous intent is not enough now, Mobei Jun actually summons and throws an ice spike at the traitorous demon , with complete intent to kill him. How dare he promise Mobei Jun to never look towards Qinghua and then come ask for his permission to court him!

Shang Qinghua screams loudly and it is with a last moment ducking that Bichen saves himself from the vicious attack. Had Mobei Jun not been cautious of Qinghua standing in the way , the target would have never been missed.

Qinghua is looking at him with horrified eyes, mouth hanging open in shock.

Mobei Jun steps down the throne stairs with thunderous steps. He can't feel anything at the moment. Not the sadness, not the sense of loss at losing his most precious person but there is only surging anger, directed and ready to remove the thorn in his side. Mobei Jun might not be able to stop before having Bichen's blood staining the floor tonight.

"Qinghua step aside." The ice king's booming voice echoes in the room, bouncing off the icy walls. Once Shang Qinghua is not covering the other demon, Mobei Jun can finish him off quickly and be done with it.

Shang Qinghua finally awakens from his stupor, yelling in a horrified voice.
"My king! What are you doing!?"
"Killing." He says coldly while staring at Bichen who is standing frozen behind the human.
"No! My king please! Please. I'm begging you- You can't kill him-"The abject concern in his voice doesn't sit right with Mobei Jun.

"Qinghua. Step aside." He gathers another spike of ice in his palm, thrumming with his murderous qi. He won't miss this time.

"My king no! Please forgive him.I-I can vouch for his character myself,He is a very good man I'm begging you please!"

Shang Qinghua's pleading prods the first tendril of grief in Mobei Jun's heart. Just what has this demon done in a few weeks that Mobei Jun could not do in so many years. Is it so easy for Qinghua to fall in love with another in such little time?

Instead of fixating on Bichen, Mobei Jun looks at Shang Qinghua's frantic face. Another tendril of sorrow wraps around his heart. The ice in his palm starts melting slowly.
"Qinghua."

"M-my king. I apologize for keeping this from you."
His eyes lower in guilt. "I wasn't aware this would affect you so much-"

Is it so easy to disregard Mobei Jun's feelings?

"Qinghua you- why would.." Mobei Jun doesn't know what to say. Just destroying a gift by Bichen had driven Qinghua away for a whole day. If Mobei Jun kills him, he surely won't be forgiven. But what else is he supposed to do?

Qinghua tries to placate him further."You know Bichen my king. He is an honest and hardworking person. Of course, he is nothing of your royal standing-" Qinghua really isn't sparing his heart .

"But I promise you he will keep Suibian happy. Right Bichen? He-"
Mobei Jun frowns. "Suibian?"
"-will always.. uh yes? Suibian."
"My cousin?"
"Yes your cousin my king. Bichen and her have- developed a liking towards eachother so.."
Mobei Jun blinks at Bichen whose ears have gone slightly pink at the mention of his cousin.
"But wait. If you don't know then why were you trying to kill him my king?"

"This king thought-" Mobei Jun glances at Shang Qinghua and then Bichen. It is difficult to say it aloud when Mobei Jun is not sure about it anymore.

Bichen's eyes widen in recognition.
"My lord. I have never had any ill intentions towards consort Shang." Mobei Jun feels tangible relief spreading through his body at the words. Qinghua is still his. There is no other demon trying to court and whisk him away.

Shang Qinghua screeches , affronted. "Bichen! I'm not his.. his consort!" He whispers the last part as if afraid of saying it .What are you saying and what ill intentions are you talking about?"

Bichen looks kind of exasperated. "My lord. Allow me to take my leave please. And, I know that I am a servant but I am very serious about courting Suibian. I shall like to ask for your permission after everything-" At this , he looks at Shang Qinghua and then him. "-has been resolved."

Mobei Jun nods, eager to have some alone time with Qinghua finally. There is a lot to unpack in the whole situation but first and foremost he needs Qinghua's answer to his courting so there is never a repeat of today's misunderstanding.

"Bichen where are you going! What were you saying- My king?" Qinghua looks at him when the door closes after the other demon ,leaving them alone.

"Shang Qinghua."
"Ignore what he was saying my king! He keeps spouting this..uh nonsense ahahaha."
Mobei Jun steps closer to the nervous human.
"This has been dragged on for too long . This king needs your answer."

Chapter Text

"Answer to what"
Shang Qinghua looks completely clueless, curious eyes looking back at Mobei Jun. The demon is left speechless for a moment.
"Qinghua-What has been happening for the past months.."

"What has been happening?" Shang Qinghua's brows furrow with more confusion.

This cannot be- Surely Qinghua knows that Mobei Jun has been courting him for many months now. There is no other way to explain everything that has happened between them. He must know-
"Are you really not aware?" Mobei Jun cannot keep the surprise out of his words.

"Aware of what my king?" He has started to look anxious now, shifting on his feet restlessly.

"Of this king's affection for you."
Shang Qinghua gasps loudly-a hand to mouth gasp with wide eyes and parted lips.

He doesn't know. Mobei Jun realizes. All this time he had been trying his best to woo his human, do everything in a way so that Shang Qinghua would like him more. And it even felt like it sometimes- the way Qinghua would act shy around him sometimes, stare when he thought Mobei Jun wasn't looking and accepting all of his gifts. And yet today he finds out Shang Qinghua wasn't even aware that Mobei Jun was courting him all along.

Before, Mobei Jun was uncertain of his place in Shang Qinghua's life. Worried if Qinghua would accept his courting or not ,when will he approach Mobei Jun himself, when will he give his answer. He was waiting but with a hope that everything will turn out good in the end.But today even that flicker of hope sways precariously. If Shang Qinghua liked him, surely he would have realized that Mobei Jun's behavior and affections towards him are vastly different than the rest.

"What are you saying?" Shang Qinghua whispers with disbelief.
"I have been courting Qinghua." Mobei Jun's voice comes out a little fainter than usual.

Shang Qinghua actually squeaks this time, covering his mouth again and staring at him with wider eyes still. "Y-you have been what?"

Mobei Jun feels anxious and tired. Just whose fault was it in the middle that it has come to this. He had assumed that he was conveying his emotions well with the courting gestures .But in consideration of not making his jittery human outright uncomfortable with any bold gestures and declarations, a lot of words had been left unsaid on his part.

And Qinghua thought - Mobei Jun doesn't even know what he thought.
"Did Qinghua really not realize? Has this this king not been clear with his intentions.I have been so.. I treat Qingua differently. Than anyone else."

"I don't.. I don't understand this-" Qinghua still looks dumbfounded, unable to process everything Mobei Jun has said. His hands are trembling slightly from where they are clenched at his sides now.

"This king made noodles for Qinghua" That is what Mobei Jun remembers to say, because that is one thing he would never ever do for anyone other than Shang Qinghua.

"I thought you were just appreciating me -As your advisor."

"Can Qinghua imagine me doing this for anyone other than him?"

"I...well no but- How did I not realize that you were courting me! When did you.." Shang Qinghua trails off, making his usual hard thinking face. And then he keeps thinking for a while.
"Oh shit!" The peak lord exclaims after some moments "You really were courting me! Holy shit!How the fuck did I not realize? Shang Qinghua you idiot-"

"Qinghua-" Mobei Jun puts a stop to the peak lord's meltdown. "This king doesn't care about the past. What I feel for Qinghua, I have never felt for another. It makes this king unsure but- I have courted you before and I can do it again. However many times Qinghua asks but I need to know-"

Mobei Jun stalls, an answer he has anticipated for a long time and anticipates even more tonight. Anxiously, he dares to take Qinghua's hand, warm in his cold one.
" Qinghua-now that you know. What is your answer?"
Shang Qinghua has turned pink from ears to cheeks, hand squirming in Mobei Jun's large one.
"M-my king. How can you possibly fall for someone like me." His eyes are downcast , trying to make himself smaller than he already is. The unsure tone of his voice makes Mobei Jun irrationally angry despite acknowledging to himself that he has played a part in making Qinghua feel worthless before.

Mobei Jun cradles Qinghua's face with the other hand, and tips his head to make their eyes meet.
"For this king, Qinghua is perfect and the most beautiful. No one comes close. This king has never looked at another except you Qinghua. Can you really not see how much I appreciate you?"

Shang Qinghua's eyes soften. His hand stops squirming and clasps around Mobei Jun's firmly instead. " I don't know what I have done to deserve your attention my king but I will fight hard to keep it."

"Qinghua doesn't have to fight. There is noone this king shall ever spare a glance at but you."

"Ah my king! Who would have known you are a secretly a sweet talker hmm." There is mirth shining in the corner of Shang Qinghua's eyes and Mobei Jun has never found him more glowing and beautiful. "Not me. No matter how many lifetimes I've spent wishing for this."

His tone becomes wistful at last , a pain larger than Mobei Jun's being encapsulated in the words. "You have no idea how long I've waited for this my king. You could not begin to imagine-"

Mobei Jun bends down and takes those soft lips into his before they can speak more painful memories into existence. Shang Qinghua squeaks caught off gaurd, eyes widening in surprise but it is only a matter of moments before he melts into him promptly, leaving himself pliant to Mobei Jun's whims.

Mobei Jun has imagined this moment many times now. Since the moment, he had realized the nature of his affection for Qinghua, a dormant desire had awakened in him letting him see and feel his human in a different light. Every touch, every brush of skin had strengthened that pot of bubbling desire and yet nothing from his imagination compares to the real thing.

Shang Qinghua feels so soft ,so warm beneath him, moving his lips against Mobei Jun's eagerly with enthusiasm. It makes Mobei Jun's hands itch with how much he wants to take and take. He lets his hands slide over Qinghua's waist , petting and pulling him closer, chest to chest- making the human gasp into his mouth. Mobei Jun takes the opportunity to do what feels right at the moment, thrusting his tongue into the open lips. And oh- how warm, how inviting. Mobei Jun could never get enough. The beast inside him wants to spend the rest of the day here, getting acquainted with the inside of Qinghua's mouth until no crook is left unfamiliar.

"Ah! M-my king-"
Mobei Jun lets up only when Shang Qinghua slaps his chest for a breath. The peak lord is looking positively bullied -whole face pink with the exertion of their kissing and his lips are slick and colored a pale shade of red from the assault of Mobei Jun's mouth. It takes all of Mobei Jun's will power to not immediately dive in again.

"This king will make up for all the lost time. Qinghua needs not to worry." Mobei Jun vows reverently ,because he has promised himself to never let any harm befall his mate again. No matter what it takes and what it costs.

Shang Qinghua blushes furiously at that for some reason. "Ahaha! I think we..need to slow down my king."

Mobei Jun frowns." Does Qinghua not wish to get courted yet?"

"Oh c-courting! Of course of course. I.. I want that." Shang Qinghua's pink cheeks and ears tell a more compelling story than his words.
"Hmm. Was there something else on Qinghua's mind." Mobei Jun gives into the urge and finally bites a warm lobe between his teeth, caressing the askew collar of the peak lord's robes to expose him more.

"Ah- no! I was just..uhmm" The rest of the words are lost for a while with Mobei Jun staking his claim on that beautifully exposed neck, sucking and biting in the way it feels natural.

Mobei Jun's demonic thirst feels stronger with every passing second. If he had thought that all his desire had been awakened by Shang Qinghua's proximity before this day , he had been utterly wrong because it doesn't even come close to what he is actually feeling after having him under his hands. The greed is making Mobei Jun feel disoriented like nothing has ever before. He can feel the control slipping from his hands with every new inch of skin getting exposed to lick and teeth at.

"My king no!" Shang Qinghua finally comes to his senses at the sound of clothe tearing under Mobei Jun's claws. "We can't do this here- please.."

Mobei Jun has a hard time stopping himself, but at least he pauses his hands in where he was trying to tear the offensive robe off of Shang Qinghua completely to access more skin. It still takes him some time to completely part from the tempting sight beneath his mouth though.

Mobei Jun kisses up the reddened neck and then lets their lips meet again in a soft reunion while trying to calm himself down , lest he scares away Qinghua on the first day he has got to touch him.

The Northern king finally parts from his human when he feels like there is no breath left in Shang Qinghua to give. The taste of gluttony is sweeter than he had imagined.

Qinghua is panting harshly, flushed from cheeks to chest. "Oh fuck!" He throws his head back to rest against the cold wall, trying to regulate his breathing while his fists clench on Mobei Jun's robes for support.

It is amusing, how he doesn't realize what willingly exposing his vulnerable neck like this, does to a predator like Mobei Jun. The delicate of thread of his control slips once again.

Mobei Jun slips a hand around the delicate throat, not putting any pressure but just letting it rest there. He presses a little closer, and Qinghua's eyes widen at the evidence of his desire.

"M-my king."

"My Qinghua." Mobei Jun purrs into his mate's ear."Let this king take you to his bed."

Shang Qinghua wails, pushing him back by the hands on his chest. "You! Y-you are bad for my mental health. Urghhh-"

Mobei Jun frowns , feeling disgruntled. Aren't they on the same page here? He is pretty sure he had felt Qinghua's desire before.

"My sweet king." Shang Qinghua cajoles Mobei Jun by putting his hands on his face and tiptoeing to press an unassuming kiss to his nose. It is a very tender gesture and does something funny to Mobei Jun's chest, different from the desire he was feeling before.

"Won't you wait for me a little longer. I need time..To prepare myself."

"How long." Mobei Jun winds his arms around Qinghua's waist again, unable to stay away for longer, now that he knows how soft and small Qinghua feels in his sturdy arms.

Shang Qinghua frowns slightly at that , unsure.

"Its alright. This king can wait." Mobei Jun pacifies the same way Qinghua had, by placing a sweet kiss on his nose -hoping to smoothen out that frown. "Qinghua should take his time."

"Arghhhh!" Shang Qinghua jumps into his arms wrapping his arms around Mobei Jun's neck tightly.
"My king I'm not going to survive if you keep being like this." He pulls his head back to stare into Mobei Jun's eyes tenderly. "Oh. I can do this all a thousand times over my king. But only if I get you in the end."

"I am Qinghua's. Always and every time."

Shang Qinghua's happy squeal brings a deep sense of satisfaction to Mobei Jun , causing his lips to quirk up with a small smile that delights Shang Qinghua to no end.

Mobei Jun can do this a thousand times over too. Only slightly different ,so his beloved never has to suffer again and Mobei Jun still gets him in the end. Always and everytime.