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Chapter Text

"That's why I said it was better to come undercover, but no, this Xuan Zhen doesn't know what he's talking about, right? Because of course three Heavenly Officials won't draw any attention from the ghost groom." Mu Qing rolled his eyes, annoyed, his sabre cutting the binus that had surrounded them.

"Can you please stop cussing? You sound like a fucking insufferable old wife."

"I'm gonna break your fucking nose, you..."

"Stop, both of you. We are here to work." Hua Cheng sighed, already tired.

He only had been a few hours with Feng Xin and Mu Qing, but he couldn't tolerate them anymore. He didn't even like any of them, to begin with, but the two useless trash were good enough in their jobs for him to dispose of them.

Technically, hunting down a Wrath Ghost wasn't that hard for him and he did said that to the Emperor when he got the mission. But the Emperor warned him that this situation could involve a Calamity, so going alone wasn't an option. And Hua Cheng had to admit: General Nan Yang and General Xuan Zhen were the most reliable options to have as a back-up. Who else could he call for this mission? Qi Ying? Tai Hua? Pei Ming was strong, but he would be more of a nuisance than the Southern Gods combined.

So he just kept cutting through binus, his mind trying to solve the issue of the brides as soon as possible while his saber moved with precision. There was nothing connecting the brides, the only common thing was their disappearances in Mount Yujun. But not all brides that crossed the Mount were kidnapped, only seventeen of them vanished in the last century.

It was like the ghost chased a very specific bride type, a characteristic so subtle nobody noticed or didn't find it relevant enough to get mentioned on any of the reports they had access to. A failure, because it was common sense that ghosts were prone to cling to certain details and actions.

"This is the last one." Announced Feng Xin, cutting a binu in half. "The groom ghost probably sent them to be able to run away from us."

"There's a barrier nearby." Answered Mu Qing, looking disgustingly at the corpses. "He shouldn't be powerful enough to hold that from afar. He's still in the mountain."

Hua Cheng ignored them and started to walk again. Both gods followed him, used to the cold treatment, while discussing the case. They always needed to vocalize their thoughts to make some progress when working together, it had become an habit at this point.

"But he's not alone. If a Supreme Ghost it's with him..." Hua Cheng had to interrupt.

"It doesn't look like something Black Water Sinking Ships would be involved with. And Blood Covering Ghost Flower wouldn't accept this kind of behavior from a underling. The only one that would actually do such petty and unclassy things is Night Touring Green Lantern."

That disgusting Qi Rong was the only Supreme that could give the groom ghost power to make such a barrier. But the chances to finding him there were slim: he was a coward and probably just gave the groom ghost the power he needed to perform his attacks.

And the rumors about the temples dedicated to Ming Guang in that region being burned down overnight but a Nan Yang Temple standing up just fine... It seemed personal. The groom ghost had some type of grudge against Pei Ming, possibly the same thing that tethered him to earth.

Could the brides be some kind of projection or even revenge?

So the groom ghost was hunting brides and burning temples to attract Heaven's attention. Or maybe Ming Guang's attention? The second option would explain why the groom ghost was hiding from the officials.

With that theory, maybe Ling Wen would be able to get some information about the groom ghost background and motives.

It was only when Hua Cheng called Ling Wen in the communication array that he noticed he wasn't able to get to her. Their communications were cut. And, at the same moment, he noticed the unusual silence behind him. Feng Xin and Mu Qing were always bickering and fighting, but they were silent since a few moments ago.

His body kept moving, all his senses focused on the situation in hand. He couldn't hear or sense the presence of other being, but there was a distinct tension surrounding them. Someone had joined their mission.

Should he turn around, preparing himself for a battle? His hand rested on E-Ming for a moment, but then he let it go. No, they didn't seen to be in danger, he could still hear both gods footsteps behind himself, their silence being the only indication of something amiss.

"Good choice." A voice he never heard before spoke, but something in Hua Cheng's body made him feel otherwise. "I do not intend to harm any of you, but I wouldn't mind to fight if that's what you are after."

Hua Cheng stopped, confused. No, he definitely never heard that voice. Maybe the tone was familiar? Did he met this person before and simply doesn't remember them? It was a possibility, he wasn't the type to pay attention to every being he met.

"We are not here for you." Answered Mu Qing, his voice cautious but certain. If Mu Qing recognized that person, so it could only be... "Unless you are the groom ghost."

"Didn't Hua Cheng already gave you that answer, Mu Qing?"

Yes, that was Blood Covering Ghost Flower. The only Ghost King everyone in Heaven really knew about. It wasn't much, but Black Water was so reclusive that no one knew any of his forms, actions or objectives. Ghost Flower's looks, in contrast, was widely known and feared. Hua Cheng had seen paintings of him before, so he didn't need to look to picture the Supreme in his head.

White, nearly translucent inner robes, covered by vibrant red robes with little white flowers embroidered in it. Long, luscious dark hair flowing past his waist. A golden mask, frozen in a sad expression, red tears painted on it.

He never changed his appearance and it was on purpose. He was excellent in hiding himself, vanishing from the whole world for decades or even centuries. That being said, every time someone had met him they knew immediately why:

Blood Covering Ghost Flower was hunting and the ones that saw him were his preys.

Normally, seeing him once was enough to make anyone repent for sins they had. It may not placate the Calamity's wrath, but everyone tried anyway. All his preys suffered a torturous death, sometimes even whole cities fell at his command. And all his targets had one thing in common: they were tyrants, cruel against the less fortunate.

Nearly all gods had been visited by Ghost Flower at some point in their life. In the Upper Court, only a few haven't seen him in person. Nan Yang, Xuan Zhen and Hua Cheng were some of them, until now.

But if Ghost Flower wasn't here to harm them, he was here for the groom ghost. So could they just go back to the mission in hand?

"So I was right. Night Touring Green Lantern is the one helping the groom ghost." Hua Cheng started to walk again, knowing that the other three would follow. He couldn't deny his nervousness, but maintaining control over his emotions was something he was an expert in.

"Partially right, yes." The barrier in front of them dispersed in thin air and, by the subtle shocked sound from Feng Xin, it was Ghost Flower's doing. "Qi Rong is helping this ghost. But there's no groom here."

"We call him that because he kidnaps brides." Explained Feng Xin, politely. "Of course he's not a real groom."

"I know, Feng Xin. What I'm saying is that you won't find a groom ghost here. You'll find a bride."

"Bride?!" Exclaimed the Southern Gods, surprised. Hua Cheng snorted, smiling at the information.

"Let me guess and say she's one of Ming Guang's affairs."

"She was, in fact, one of Pei Ming's lovers when she was alive. Can you tell me how you came to that conclusion as soon you knew about her gender?" Ghost Flower voice was soothing, in a weird way, but it seemed easy to relax in his presence.

"All his temples in this place being burned were intentional. She's trying to get his attention with the kidnapped brides too. If she's an ex, that would explain the behavior."

Ghost Flower was suddenly at his side, and he heard both gods sigh, relieved at the distance between them. The mask turned to him, as if the Calamity were studying his face. It was uncomfortable to look at the crying mask, but Hua Cheng did it anyway. After a moment, Ghost Flower looked forward again.

"You are really clever, Hua Cheng. I like that." Hua Cheng could swear he heard one of his colleagues trip. Probably Feng Xin. "Xuan Ji is trying to get Pei Ming's attention. In her twisted mind, she could make the man love and marry her."

"Why did she attack brides?" Asked Mu Qing, probably understanding now the benefits to encounter this Ghost King without being his prey.

"She resented them. They had something she would never have."

Feng Xin made a "hmmm" sound, confused.

"But she didn't attack all the brides that passed the mountain, only a few of them. Why?"

"Because she only wanted the happy brides." Ghost Flower looked turned his mask at him, without leaving Hua Cheng's side. "Sad brides were safe, because she wouldn't resent a woman that was unhappy, marrying a man she didn't love. The happy brides were the ones Xuan Ji envied. They were happy to marry her loved ones..." the Calamity sighed, turning again. "One hundred years and only seventeen brides that passed here were happy to marry. I wonder how many unhappy, crying brides passed here too. Don't you find it extremely sad?"

Silence surrounded them for a moment, no one answering the question.

"So Ming Guang is responsible for this." Concluded Mu Qing, after some time.

"Of course not." Ghost Flower laughed a bit. "Pei Ming is not the type of man that falls in love, marries and is faithful to one person. He doesn't make any of his lovers believe otherwise, he's honest and take care of all his old lovers. Xuan Ji is the only one to blame. Not for falling in love with a man like Pei Ming, we can't decide who we will love, but for her own actions against others. Pei Ming it's just her motivation. Her crimes belong to her and to no one else."

"We heard she's a wrath level ghost." Said Hua Cheng, looking around. A Ming Guang temple was inside the barrier, probably Xuan Ji's lair.

"Wrath level? Hardly. She's probably already dealt with." The affirmation made the gods suddenly stop. Ghost Flower kept walking, so they started following him. Losing sight of a Calamity wasn't a good thing.

"Dealt with by who?"

"Baba!" A feminine voice called from the other side of the temple. Once they turned the corner of the building, a small figure dressed in purple threw itself against Ghost Flower. The young woman smiled softly to the ghost. "Xuan Ji is mad, she is really obsessed with that man of hers... Baba, why are these gods here for?"

Ghost Flower caressed the woman's hair with care. His daughter's hair? Ghost Flower had a daughter?!

"They came to hunt Xuan Ji too. They are Feng Xin, Mu Qing and Hua Cheng. Be polite with them, BanYue." Ordered the Calamity and the woman nodded, bowing to them. Mu Qing laughed and everyone looked at him.

"Are you serious? Your daughter is the fucking Banyue's State Preceptor?"

"Damn, Mu Qing, are you mental?!"

"It's alright, Feng Xin, I'm not offended." Interrupted Ghost Flower, speaking sweetly. "Yes, Mu Qing. BanYue is my daughter. Adopted, but my daughter nonetheless."

The gods looked at each other and Hua Cheng decided to make the question.

"Was she the reason behind Banyue's fall?"

"Always so clever, my dear Hua Cheng." The nickname sounded like honey in the god's ears and he reprimanded himself for liking it. "Yes, my sweet BanYue was the reason. Now, where's Xuan Ji?"

BanYue leaded the way, while the gods followed both ghosts with cautious steps. Soon enough they saw a bride sitting in the ground, sulking while being immobilized by some snakes. She saw the group approaching and smiled.

"Pei Ming? My love, was your heart finally moved and you came for me?"

Hua Cheng covered his mouth with one hand, suppressing a laugh. The woman was completely delusional.

"He isn't here, Xuan Ji." Ghost Flower lowered himself to her eye level, his voice losing all the warmth from before. It was easy to forget who that ghost was when he treated them with such politeness. But Xuan Ji was his prey and just the way he said her name was enough to remind them of his real intentions here.

"I don't want to see you, I want Pei Ming and only him!"

"I'll disperse you now."

"W-What... Wait, why... I haven't done anything wrong!"

"You killed those brides and the people with them. I warned you about this once, Xuan Ji. And you know I only give second chances. Never a third one." The Calamity stood up and the bride started to cry.

"It was Pei Ming's fault! That cruel, heartless man! He made me do all of this! He crossed the country in one night for me before and now he doesn't even acknowledge me! I did all of this because..."

"You wanted to."

"And what if I did? Don't you kill and torture anyone who goes against your wishes?"

"Is there someone stronger than me in this world, Xuan Ji?" The bride shuddered, suddenly scared. "Tell me, will someone come after me if I do as I please?"

His hand grabbed her by the neck, growling while bringing her close to his face.

"Even if someone tried to punish me, do you think they'll succeed on it?"

Not even the three gods believe it could be possible. The Emperor was able to defeat a Ghost King before, but he wouldn't hunt down Ghost Flower. And the reason was the kind of prey the Calamity had. Only sinners fall into Ghost Flower tastes and the Emperor didn't see him as a real danger to anyone who mattered.

Maybe Hua Cheng's God could take the job to himself. But he couldn't say it for sure.

"Would you be able to punish me, Xuan Ji?"

A long moment passed, without anyone daring to respond. Ghost Flower seemed pleased with the lack of answer, releasing Xuan Ji from his grab. She fell at his feet, terrified.

"I am your King and you are beneath me. I ordered you to stop. You ignored me, killed those people and attracted the Emperor's attention to you. Three gods were ordered to deal with your mess and I'm furious right now. So you should be crying tears of joy because I'll be gentle enough to only disperse your soul. You wouldn't like the alternative, I can assure you that."

"Ghost Flower, wait." This time, all eyes turned to Hua Cheng. "I do not have the intention to disrespect you, but could I suggest another solution?"

Feng Xin and Mu Qing tensed beside Hua Cheng, silence filling the air. A chill breeze made them tremble slightly, both immediately preparing themselves for the battle.

But Ghost Flower didn't move from his spot. "Say it."

"I know Xuan Ji is a ghost and that makes her one of your subjects. But the Emperor gave us the mission to capture the ghost behind the disappearances. Wouldn't it be less work for you to let us take Xuan Ji and deal with her ourselves?"

"And what makes you think I would accept that?" Ghost Flower turned to him, his voice demanding. "Xuan Ji is my target. I am the who decides her fate."

Hua Cheng blinked, thinking for a moment. Maybe it was better to let Ghost Flower do as he wanted, he had that right. But he was sure Ling Wen and the other gods would not be satisfied with a report that ended like that. And the Emperor would probably be displeased too. Hua Cheng hated to work but he hated even more being at the receiving end of one of the Jun Wu's long and tedious speeches.

Before he could really decide on it, he felt his body bending forward, in a perfect and respectful bow.

"I give you my word that we'll find a fitted punishment to her crimes and to not let her meet Pei Ming while in our custody. You can come after me if I break my promise."

Both Generals looked at the man as he was on fire. Even BanYue looked surprised.

Hua Cheng didn't bow to people. Even the Emperor didn't get a bow from him. And now he was bowing down to a Ghost King and making promises? Was he cursed or something?!

Internally, Hua Cheng was asking himself the same thing. For 800 years, he only bowed to one God, the one he believes and admire to this day, the only real God that ever existed, his beloved. He was the only one worthy to be bowed to.

So why did his body just fell naturally into a submissive position before Ghost Flower? Was it something related to the fact that, beneath his divinity status, Hua Cheng was a ghost too? But in the past, Bai Wuxian couldn't control him, even when he was a little ghost fire.

Maybe it was some specific power from Ghost Flower? Nan Yang and Xuan Zhen didn't seem to be affected the same way as him, but it may only work on ghosts.

Was the Ghost King so powerful that he could make even a ghost turned God felt like it was right to serve him?

A delicate touch in his chin made Hua Cheng come back to present. Ghost Flower was right before him, his finger slowly making him straighten up. Being so close, Hua Cheng noticed how much taller than Ghost Flower he was.

Somehow, Hua Cheng did not feel that big.

"My dear Hua Cheng shouldn't bow to no one. Not even to me." His cold touch lingered in the warm skin of the god and something in his voice indicated he was smiling behind the crying mask. A weak stream of spiritual energy flowed from the ghost's fingertip, and it was so tender his own energy couldn't reject it, absorbing all of it.

Hua Cheng didn't know what to think about that so he just stared at the ghost waiting for an answer. He didn't received one, Ghost Flower turning around and walking to the forest.

"BanYue, let's go home. These gods will take care of Xuan Ji for us."

"Yes, baba."

And, in the same way he appeared between the Southern Gods, Ghost Flower and his daughter vanished.

Chapter Text

The chaos that descended the Great Martial Hall was unprecedented. The Emperor himself seemed taken aback by the three god's reports. Hua Cheng wanted to just leave them there and go back to take care of his own business, but one look at the situation and he knew he couldn't do that.

Leave now and the very one thing he tried to avoid would happen: Jun Wu's tedious speech.

"Everyone, calm down." Ordered the Emperor. It took a few moments until he spoke again. "First things first. How is Xuan Ji being handled?"

"She's at my palace." Answered Nan Yang, his arms crossed. "We should seal her under a mountain as soon as possible before she attracts more trouble to us."

Ling Wen nodded, taking a step closer and bowing.

"We are already on it, General Nan Yang. Soon we will transfer her to a secure place." She looked at Hua Cheng. "Will that satisfy Blood Covering Ghost Flower, Hua Cheng?"

"He was going to disperse her soul, so I guess he doesn't care with what we do to her. She just needs to be punished and never see General Ming Guang again, that's all." Hua Cheng was a bit annoyed at the question, but it was understandable once he was the one to make the deal with Ghost Flower.

"Excellent. Ling Wen, report this to Ming Guang by his return. He's not responsible, but I want his palace to take care of this. This meeting is over, the rest of you can go now."

The way the Emperor said that was enough for them to understand. Once the four gods were alone in the Martial Hall, Jun Wu stood up, smiling a bit.

"Hua Cheng, Nan Yang, Xuan Zhen. I'm grateful for the effort you made in this case. Encountering a Ghost King, even when he doesn't mean any harm, is stressful enough. You'll be properly rewarded. But I can't help being a bit curious." He descended the stairs while talking. "Hua Cheng, in your reports you described Ghost Flower as 'polite, patient and understanding'. Why?"

Hua Cheng sighed. "It's the true. Even when Mu Qing offended his daughter..."

"I didn't offend her!"

"You laughed at her." Agreed Feng Xin, annoyed. "You are lucky Ghost Flower didn't take offense."

"I was surprised, that's all. He noticed and that's why he wasn't offended. Not everyone has a green pea for a brain like you."

"You little shit..."

"So." Interrupted the Emperor. "Ghost Flower is understanding. And what about polite and patient?"

"He carries himself with the composure of a benevolent King. He's compassionated enough to warn his targets before hunting them." Answered Mu Qing, shrugging. "But I don't know if he is like that with everyone or just because Hua Cheng was there."

The mentioned one raised his eyebrow, incredulous. How dare he...

"Nan Yang described Ghost Flower interest in you as 'evident', Hua Cheng. Is that right?"

"This..." Hua Cheng sighed again, tired of this already. "He seemed to like clever people, because he started to call me 'dear' right after stating it. I don't know if he was interested on me or just amusing himself."

The Emperor remained in silence for a moment, and then he smiled. The three gods shuddered when seeing it.

"Nan Yang, Xuan Zhen. You can go now."

The Generals bowed and started to leave. Both of them looked back, worryingly, at Hua Cheng before closing the door behind them.

"Hua Cheng..."

"Oh, no, you won't start with that." Complained Hua Cheng, crossing his arms. "I finished the work; I brought the ghost responsible for the attacks and that was what you told me to do this time. I'm not hearing a word of this, so don't waste your time acting like if I had failed you."

The Emperor's aloof posture gave way to an annoyed one. When they were alone, Jun Wu would always drop the formality too.

"Reckless child, that is what you are. Do you have any idea of the danger you faced? How strong a Ghost King is? He could have murdered any of you if he wanted to. You are lucky he was in a good mood and let you live."

"Why am I the only one being scolded?"

"You were the responsible for this mission. As soon as you concluded Ghost Flower was there for the same objective you should've returned to Heaven immediately. What were you thinking to decide to just tag along with him?"

"He didn't mean us harm, he said it himself. And we didn't say anything to enrage Ghost Flower, so what motive would he have to attack us?"

"Did Bai Wuxian need a motive to destroy Xianle?"

Hua Cheng's spiritual energy suddenly spiked, all his posture tensed up. E-Ming's eye fixated on the Emperor, pure rage emanating from it. Jun Wu didn't move, watching him with the same condescending and annoyed expression he had before.

"Don't you dare bring His Highness's to this conversation."

Jun Wu smiled weakly at him, walking in his direction.

"I'm sorry, but I need to make you think about your actions, Hua Cheng. You, more than anyone, should know that a Calamity doesn't need any motive to do as they please." His hand touched Hua Cheng's shoulder, his thumb making little circles there, as if he was trying to calm him.

Hua Cheng hated it. Hua Cheng hated him.

"You are lucky Ghost Flower liked you, but if he didn't, the deaths of Nan Yang and Xuan Zhen would have been in your hands. You are a god, Hua Cheng, a good and strong one. And that makes you responsible for the ones who are weaker than you. Understand this if you don't want to hear me scolding you again."

The Emperor returned to his throne, in slow steps, giving Hua Cheng the time to calm down. And, like always, Hua Cheng controlled himself. He had his own goals, a reason that kept him in Heaven. Talking without any formality to the Emperor was fine, but if he attacked Jun Wu, all his power and influence would vanish. He already saw how awful one of those cursed shackles were and he couldn't afford having one.

For his God, Hua Cheng would swallow his pride and hate millions of times.

When the Emperor sat on his throne, with a smile, Hua Cheng knew exactly what he would say.

"But Ghost Flower likes you and that's an opportunity I can't ignore. So, I'll give you a couple days to rest, but I want you to go into Ghost City."

"What for?"

"In your report, you said Ghost Flower went 'home' with his daughter. And it is Ghost City. He isn't found so easily there and the residents hate Heaven so much we never got to inspect the place properly before being chased out. But if their King liked you, they would have to accept your presence in the city."

"Didn't you just say Ghost Kings are dangerous and how a powerful god is responsible for others?" Hua Cheng rolled his eye. "Or it doesn't apply to you?"

"Ghost Kings are dangerous, but they are extremely stubborn too. They don't change their opinions that easily. Ghost Flower decided he likes you and he will cling to his decision until the end. That's how ghosts work, right?"

Hua Cheng didn't answer, starting to leave.

"Ah, one last thing, Hua Cheng."

"What it is now?"

"We'll find him, as I promised you."

Hua Cheng closed the door and marched to his palace, not a bit satisfied with those words. He entered his personal chamber and just let himself fall in the bed. His eye went to the altar at the corner, tired of so many things at once. But after a while, he smiled to himself.

The Emperor's promise didn't mean anything to him, the only thing that mattered was how useful the man could be in his searching. He couldn't care less about other god's life too.

But the Emperor was right in one thing: Ghost Kings were powerful beings, as much as the Emperor himself.

Ghost Flower liked him. And he could use a little more help to find his beloved God in the mortal realm.

Using the new plan as a motivator, Hua Cheng ventured himself into Ghost City, after resting for two days. But, maybe, it would have been better to wait one more night.

In the Zhongyuan Festival, Ghost City was flooding with ghosts of all kinds. Not even in Mount TongLu he saw so many ghosts together. In a younger skin, Hua Cheng concealed his powers and walked the streets cautiously.

The atmosphere there was, ironically, livelier than Heavens in festive days. Small stores selling from useless trinkets to great cursed objects, dancers and musicians from different places performing on the streets, foods from all kinds, colorful and bright lights making all the city glow against the dark veil of night...

And an altar?

Hua Cheng didn't expect that. Between two shops, a few ghost kids were bowing to a silvery altar.

"Hey! If you won't walk, get out of the way!" A female ghost complained, her long yellow robes dirty with some blood stains and her red hair up in a traditional style.

"I'm sorry, it's my first time in the city and I'm a bit confused..."

"Oh, look at you, a cute young man. How can this jiejie help you?" Hua Cheng smiled, pointing at the altar.

"I didn't know ghosts could follow gods."

"Oh, His Highness doesn't care, as long as he doesn't dislike the god in question." The title mentioned so suddenly made him raise an eyebrow.

"His Highness?"

"Our King, of course!"

"Oh, yes, of course. I'm still new at this... So, anyone can make an altar in the city for their god?"

"No, not in the city. Outside you can worship whoever you want. But here we can only worship three gods." She took him by the hand, without any care, and dragged him closer to the altar.

It was for Xuan Zhen, with a small statue that looked exactly like him. He would be pleased to see a statue so finely made.

"All the altars within the city were made by His Highness's order. The silver ones are for General Xuan Zhen and the golden ones are dedicated to General Nan Yang. And they are always near each other... There." She pointed at the other side of the street and, yes, that was an altar to Nan Yang.

"How strange. I heard that the citizens here hated the Heavens."

"Oh, we do. Specially when they come here with their almighty sense of rightfulness, trying to make an scene and bother our King. Assholes." She started to drag him down the street and Hua Cheng decided to follow her for the moment.

"So you hate the Heavens but worship them anyway?" The ghost laughed a bit.

"It's not like that. To be honest, only a few ghosts worship anyone outside the gods allowed in the city. They are tolerable and His Highness likes them too, so we do what needs to be done to please him. Oh, yes, that's an important thing to warn you: we please our King, it's our first law here."

"I could imagine why. From what I heard about him, he's brutal."

"Our King would never expect us to please him." Her voice sounded offended, for some reason. "He's selfless, only being helped by that assistant of his and our beloved princess. No one is allowed to serve him in anyway, even his food is made only by himself. Ah, what wouldn't I do to warm the water of his bath or tend to his garden for him..."

Hua Cheng coughed, a bit embarrassed with the things the ghost were saying. Not because he didn't understood her, but because he did. He, too, would love to do those things for his God.

"If he's so selfless, why does that law exists for?"

"Nearly everyone in the city is in debt with His Highness. His good soul had saved us more times and in more ways we can imagine. Please him, in whatever way we can, it's the least we can do for him."

The ghost stopped talking and Hua Cheng looked around. In fact, everyone there seemed to be well behaved, shouting at one another but never letting the conflict escalate. For Heaven's sake, even ghosts were more civilized than those two stupid gods when discussing.

"There, the place that you need to go at least once in your existence." His eyes followed hers and a big, luxurious building called his attention. "The Gamble Den. You can only gamble there, no where else. If someone catches you gambling outside, you could be dispersed as punishment, so be careful."

"Why is it so important?"

"Because His Highness works there."

"He what?!"

She laughed at his surprised face, guiding him up the stairs.

"So cute! Well, His Highness owns the place, so of course he works there. He's not always there, but you are lucky. Tonight he is present!"

The Gambler Den was as big as the Great Martial Hall, tables of all sizes and types accommodating ghosts and even humans in their games. In the back of the hall, dark stairs leaded to a small table and long red curtains with, probably, a secluded room behind them.

He knew who was behind those curtains. The table before the curtains suggested that the Calamity took part in the games too.

Maybe he could...

"Does he gambles?"

"Yes, he does. Normally when someone ask him for something he finds amusing."

"And does he wins?"

"Sometimes, if he feels like it." She shrugged. "Why do you ask?"

"I want to gamble against him."

Hua Cheng said that in a normal volume, but suddenly all the Den was dead silent, all eyes focused on him. The woman with him immediately let go of his arm.

"Are you crazy? What would you ask from him?"

"Excellent question, Xiao Meili." It was that voice again. And it came from the room upstairs, with such a power that it felt like the Calamity was right beside him. The female ghost blinked like she was trying to convince herself she wasn't dreaming. "What's your name, young man?"

"I'm San Lang." Hua Cheng controlled his own reaction to his response. Why did he said that name?

"So, San Lang, what would you want from me?"

"I want a private meeting with Blood Covering Ghost Flower."

Whispers filled the air for a moment, but soon all was in silence again.

"You don't need to gamble to ask me on a date, San Lang."

And now the ghosts around him weren't whispering anymore. They were enraged, shouting and pointing swords, claws and teeth at him.

"That's not... You misunderstood, I don't..." How the fuck did he ended up in that situation?! He didn't meant it like that!

Ghost Flower just laughed from behind the curtains. "Now now, calm down please. It was a joke."

The words made everyone stop and just stare at Hua Cheng, still offended in their King's behalf. Offended for what? He didn't know, he wasn't even the one who made the joke!

"I'm sorry, San Lang. I couldn't help it. But now... You win and I'll talk privately with you. But if you lose, what would I get from you?"

Oh, he would be in so much trouble if the Emperor finds out but... Well, who would tell him? Not Hua Cheng.

"An Upper Court God's favor." Surprised noises came from all around him.

"Which God?"

"The one who sent me."

"Fuck that entitled old bastard." The suddenly annoyance in the voice took him unprepared. Ghost Flower never met the Emperor, but doesn't likes him? "I mean, not you, San Lang. I'm sure you have a better taste for that. But that old man desperately needs to get laid. He's insufferable."

Hua Cheng couldn't help but laugh a bit with the other ghosts. Ghost Flower wasn't wrong at all.

"Not him. I was referring to Hua Cheng."

Silence dominated the hall once more. The curtains waved a bit before a white gloved hand opened it.

Ghost Flower was received with joy, screams and compliments raining upon him. He wasn't using his normal clothes, probably because of the Festival. The look was the same, yes, but the red robes were embroidered with gold and silver threads this time. He was using gloves and jewelry. His hair was up in a simple half bun, but the golden crown there was extravagant, with little golden chains and silver flowers flowing down to his shoulders. His mask was still crying blood tears.

He was, indeed, a King.

"What are you waiting for, you moron?" Said Meili, pushing him. "Go there!"

The ghosts opened the way for him and Hua Cheng went to the stairs. But he didn't went upstairs. He knew, by the table up there, that Ghost Flower gambled there but... The Calamity was coming in his direction, his feet elegantly carrying him down each step at a time. He descended slowly, his clothes barely moving with him.

The ghosts bowed to his King, but Hua Cheng stayed up. Ghost Flower stopped right in front of him and the same sensation from last time repeated itself. Even in this younger form, he was bigger than Ghost Flower, but he didn't felt like that.

"You please me." Was the only comment Ghost Flower made about it. He extended his hand, a cup with two red dices in there. "Higher number wins. You can go first."

Hua Cheng took the cup and started shaking it, confident in his own luck. He couldn't see Ghost Flower's face (did he had one to begin with?) but he knew the ghost was looking at him.

Eleven. The result made Hua Cheng frown. He never got anything that wasn't double sixes. Only when Ghost Flower took the cup from him that he noticed that he was feeling nervous. Like the last time they met, Hua Cheng was nervous to be near Ghost Flower.

The sound of the dices stopped suddenly and Hua Cheng stared at the hands of the Calamity.

"Congratulations, my dear San Lang." The cup wasn't even raised yet, but Ghost Flower was congratulating him? Was he capable of saying the result without looking?

No, Ghost Flower decided the result. The snake eyes on the dices were proof enough. He didn't win, Ghost Flower gave him the victory. Ghost Flower gave him what he wanted, because he wanted it too. Probably that's why he wins only sometimes: the Ghost King gave his contestants what they wanted, the gambling being just an excuse to do it.

If he asked for something directly, without gambling, would Ghost Flower give it to him too? Something inside him answered yes, but he blinked the thought away.

"My luck is being good with me today." Hua Cheng answered, hearing how the ghosts started to yell and congratulate him. The sudden change in behavior was evident and the reason was obvious.

The Emperor was right. Their King liked him, so the citizens accepted him too.

"I owe you a private conversation, San Lang. Is it my home private enough for you?"

HIS HOME?!

"It would be an honor."

"Of course it would. Come." He felt a subtle touch in his arm and, before he noticed it, he was offering it to the Ghost King. Ghost Flower made a low approving sound, putting his hand there and starting to walk to the exit. But he stopped midway. "Xiao Meili. Thank you for guiding my dear San Lang here. I'll compensate you for your hospitality."

The woman fell to her knees, smiling in pure joy, surprising Hua Cheng.

"Your Highness is so gentle! So compassionate! Thank you! Thank you!"

"You deserve my gentleness, Xiao Meili. Now, let's go, dear San Lang. I want to walk around the festival before going home."

Chapter Text

Walking in Ghost City's streets in this night was difficult before. But with Ghost Flower at his side, everyone made way for them. A few ghosts came a little closer, but soon were satisfied with the most minimal sign of recognition from their King.

"The citizens love you."

"Oh, they are silly little beings. I help them with simple tasks sometimes and they act like I have saved their families. I find their admiration endearing, though." Said the Calamity, walking so silently that Hua Cheng nearly asked if he was floating.

As soon as he thought that, the Ghost King tripped, ending up in using Hua Cheng's arm as a leverage.

"Oh my. I'm so sorry. I'm not really used to these robes yet. They weight a lot more then my normal clothes." Hua Cheng smiled at him, finding his behavior endearing too.

A weird thing to think about a Calamity, yes, but Ghost Flower made it so easy. It seemed like he only acted like the dangerous ghost he was with certain people. His targets and preys would never imagine how soft his voice can be.

"So, San Lang. You only got to the city this night and had decided to gamble with me so fast. Makes me think that you came specifically for that reason."

"I didn't come here to gamble with you, I just wanted to talk... And to ask for help." It wasn't like him to talk like this, but if he wanted Ghost Flower to cooperate, better please him with his attitude.

"And here I was, thinking you wanted to see me. How silly."

"Ah, I..."

"It's a joke, San Lang. You'll find soon enough that I like to provoke people. I like to see their expression changing, makes then look more real, alive." Hua Cheng blinked, confused.

"That's why you use a mask yourself? To conceal your truth?"

"If I can be honest... For me, it's the other way around." Ghost Flower looked ahead while talking. "I can be more like myself behind the mask."

"But the mask is always sad and that's the image everyone has of you."

"Because it's the true." Ghost Flower voice didn't change, but Hua Cheng felt the sadness in it anyway. "We ghosts are tethered to existence by our resentments. Some of them are easily solved, but sometimes it can't be solved at all. And a ghost is as powerful as his resentment is unsolvable."

Hua Cheng stayed in silence, not knowing what to respond to that. He knew how that worked, he experienced it himself. His own resentments would never be solved, because he had a grudge with himself. And, in top of that, he promised to stay with his God for all his life. Even if they are driven apart by the circumstances.

Of course, as a god, Hua Cheng didn't rely in his ghost nature that much. He was a powerful one before ascending, provably a wrath. So, even if he loses all his followers, he wouldn't vanish like most gods do, just returning to his previous status.

"You should wear black, San Lang." Hua Cheng attention returned to the present with the suddenly change of topic.

"Why do you say that?"

"Red suits you better, I'm not going to lie. But black would look wonderful on you too."

The god didn't understand exactly what was behind that comment, but if they were talking about looks...

"That hairpin would look fine on you too."

Ghost Flower stopped, turning to him.

"What hairpin?"

Hua Cheng distanced himself for a moment, returning with a jade hairpin. It was carefully carved, with a single white flower in one end. Simple, but beautiful.

"Your crown looks wonderful, but from what I heard you prefer simple things, so I..."

Hua Cheng stopped talking. The ghosts around them did it too.

Slowly, Ghost Flower took out of his hair every single piece of his crown, the golden pins being placed in the table of a store near them. Dark hair's locks flowed down until he finished, like silk covering his back and shoulders.

Then, Ghost Flower turned around.

"Please, put it on me."

Hua Cheng, who didn't even need to breathe, took a shaky breath.

His mind screamed at him, trying to make him stop with all that nonsense. He was here to negotiate with a Ghost King, not to make friends or spend his time doing a pretty hairstyle with a hairpin he just bought.

But he did it, anyway.

When he was near Ghost Flower, Hua Cheng's body acted by itself, ignoring his logical reasoning. He didn't understand why that happened, but he couldn't resist it either. Whatever power Ghost Flower had used in him, it was powerful enough to control his body.

After a few moments, Ghost Flower's hair was partially up in a bun, a combination of braids around it and the simple hairpin holding them together. Hua Cheng's fingers tingled with the lingering sensation of touching such soft and perfumed hair.

The Calamity raised a hand, feeling the hairpin.

"Thank you." His mask was crying, but his voice sounded like he was smiling.

For some reason, Hua Cheng felt satisfied by that.

"Come, San Lang. My home is nearby."

In fact, they were near the house. After entering a small entrance near the forest, Ghost Flower's home appeared, all the sounds from Ghost City disappearing. They probably entered a special place, concealed by the Ghost King's powers.

But it wasn't a big palace or a spacious mansion like Hua Cheng had imagined. In fact, it was a small, simple wood house, with a garden at one side and a small pond at the other, with small white fishes on it. Something about that place made Hua Cheng feel as he had seen a house like this one before. Where?

In front of the house, they were received by a black clad person. In their face, they used a mask too.

"My Lord, the tea you asked for is ready."

"Thank you. Where's BanYue?"

"Her partner came to see her and they had leave to enjoy the Festival a few moments ago."

"You can go home now. Thank you again."

"It's a pleasure, my Lord."

The man vanished and Ghost Flower made his way to the pond. Near it, a table held the promised tea. The Calamity pointed to one chair and Hua Cheng sat down, looking at how he was served tea by Ghost Flower.

He didn't like it, but couldn't discuss.

"No one would hear anything from us outside the house perimeter. And we are alone here." Ghost Flower went to the pond while talking. The white fishes were, in fact, little skeleton fishes, and they floated above the lake. Soon they were all around the Calamity, expecting to be petted. "You can drop the acting now."

"So you knew..."

"Of course I did. No one enters my city without my knowledge. Specially a god as powerful as you are." One fish started to bump itself against his mask. "Oh, I'm sorry, little one, I need to keep it today. We have a guest."

The fish turned to Hua Cheng and, somehow, it seemed annoyed with his presence. Hua Cheng ignored it, changing to his original form.

"There you are, my dear Hua Cheng."

"I guess I preferred if you call me San Lang." Hua Cheng had to control himself to not curse as long as he said it.

"Oh." Ghost Flower turned to him, the fish around him suddenly agitated. "Calm down, calm down now... So, if San Lang doesn't want me to be formal, than I won't accept formality either."

"I don't know what else I could call you. Unless you are confortable with something generic like gege." Hua Cheng answered, jokingly.

"Well, I am older than you, so it wouldn't be improper." Ghost Flower returned his attention to the fish. Hua Cheng blinked a few times, confused, but didn't had time to ask on that. "I have to mention you got my attention a long time ago. It's a pity it took so long to know you personally."

"Because of the gods I made disappear?"

"Those legends are wild, I can't deny how much I like them. But you have the title of a 'Justice God' among humans. They sing your doings and morals with such fervor, of course I would be interested in you. Our way of doing things might be different but we are really alike in that aspect. I like that."

Hua Cheng sipped at his tea, feeling a nostalgic flavor in his tongue. But he couldn't remember where he felt it before.

"But I didn't bring you here to talk about you. You wanted to talk to me, San Lang. I'm listening."

"I'm looking for someone." Hua Cheng didn't need to explain anything, he didn't want to. He was feeling so strange near Ghost Flower, his body disobeying him all the time and he just wanted to leave... But not really.

"Is this about some mission that asshole throw at your lap? He never does things alone, even when he's powerful enough for that, such a bastard." The god could understand why a Calamity would hate the Emperor, but the way Ghost Flower talked about him was like he knows the man. "But you are the second strongest Martial God, right behind Jun Wu. I'm sure you have power and resources enough to find anyone you want."

"That's not true... Not with this person. I've been looking for him since I ascended. Not for a mission, just for me. The Emperor himself tried to find them too, but we never succeed."

"But for so long... Isn't that person already dead?"

"Impossible. He's an immortal, a god. He asked to be banished as soon as he ascended the second time."

"That's what Jun Wu told you?" Hua Cheng tensed up. Ghost Flower turned to him, his crying mask being too much to stare right now, so Hua Cheng looked at his tea. "You are talking about The Crown Prince of Xianle, right? The only god who ascended twice, His Highness Xie Lian. That's not what..."

"Jun Wu lied to me."

"He did. Xie Lian wasn't banished. He jumped down himself, giving his back to Heavens. Everyone was baffled, of course. How could he just reject Heaven? As if they were the most desired thing on existence. Pathetic."

Silence surrounded them for a few moments, while Hua Cheng tried to accommodate the new information about His Highness. He concluded that it didn't matter.

"Banished or not, it's not important. He's alive and I want to find him. You are an expert at hiding and I never heard about someone that was able to hide from you. So I want your help. Not for free, of course. I can pay you."

A few moments passed, with Ghost Flower petting the little fishes, as he was lost in thought.

"I'm curious, San Lang. What would you pay me?"

"I have access to information about Heaven you might like. I can be your informant. The Emperor will try to use me to get information about you, too. So I guess it's fair. You help me, and I help you."

"So you are ready to give your back to Heavens for him. My San Lang really doesn't disappoint me." Hua Cheng didn't understand why would he say that. "Well, if I'm being honest with you, San Lang..."

The front door of the house suddenly opened, a nervous person appearing there. From where? They were alone until now. Maybe an array?

"I'm giving you three seconds to put that fucking mask on."

Wait. He knew that voice.

Ghost Flower moved a bit, his posture suddenly more rigid than before. Hua Cheng didn't noticed before, but the ghost was more relaxed while they were alone. Now, his entire energy was more alike the one he showed in Mount Yujun.

"I'm by the pond. With a guest."

"Who the hell would be your..." When the black clad man appeared, Hua Cheng smiled. Oh, he definitely knew this one. "What is Hua Cheng doing at your house?"

"I won a bet against him. Hello, Ming Yi."

The Earth Master looked at Ghost Flower as if he grew a second head.

"You lost to a god?"

"San Lang wanted to talk, and I didn't had any motive to win."

"And you brought him to your home because of that?"

"He wanted privacy."

"You could have privacy anywhere in the world. Why would you risk..." Ming Yi rolled his eyes, sighing. "You know what? I don't care. I'm not here for this. I need your help."

"Is this about Lang QianQiu running around my city tonight?"

"The Emperor is certain that I'm working for you too and sent that one to hunt me down." He crossed his arms, a bit annoyed when a fish tried to get close to him. The little skeleton returned to Ghost Flower, snuggling against his robes.

"Didn't you have a plan for this possibility? You always plans everything out."

"I know how to make him believe I'm not working for you, but I need your help in that plan."

"And how could I help?"

"Torture me."

"No."

"It's the only way to convince everyone. I've been hiding for a few days now, so we could pretend that you... "

"Have been torturing you? What for? And what good would that do for your condition? For all that Heavens know, you could be a masochist pervert that decided to sleep around with a Calamity and nearly died for that. And that would be even more suspicious."

Ming Yi was visibly disgusted by the idea.

"That's gross."

"I've seen gods doing worse things. So no, I'll not torture you or anything like that. Come up with another plan or I'll not help you." Ghost Flower simply gave his back to Ming Yi, starting to feed the small fishes.

"I thought..."

"Don't waste our time, you know I'm stubborn."

"Excuse me." Both man turned to Hua Cheng, who was silently drinking his tea until now. "Maybe I can help too. The Emperor's initial order was to learn more about the city and Ghost Flower. He probably plans to use me as an informant in Ming Yi's place, because I'm not susceptible to treason."

"That would make sense." Said the Earth Master. The Calamity kept his thoughts about it to himself.

"I can make a scene and say that I found out Ming Yi was in trouble for spying a Ghost King. If I rescue him from here, no one would dare distrust my word in public. Not even Jun Wu."

And that was the good part of being known as the Justice God. He didn't show mercy to anyone, it didn't matter if it was a ghost, human or god. So if he defended someone, it was because he has reasons to do so.

"And why would you help me? I'm betraying Heaven, you should try to make me fall. Like you did with those gods before."

"I targeted the gods who betrayed their own divinity work. The gods were made to help, serve and guide humanity. Anyone who doesn't stays loyal to their duties isn't worthy to be a god." Hua Cheng shrugged, finishing his tea. "Betraying Heaven, sometimes, is necessary to do our work."

"Well, I can see why you like him so much." Commented Ming Yi, and Hua Cheng was confused for a second. Oh, no, the Earth Master were talking to Ghost Flower, who were trying to calm down the fishes again. "Eh, look at that. You really..."

"I think San Lang's plan will work." Interrupted Ghost Flower. "You can make yourself look like you were hurt before returning to Heaven. Only to say I kept you locked up or something like that, nothing serious. And then San Lang ends up finding Lang QianQiu in the way out."

"So let's go." Ming Yi started to walk towards the trees and Ghost Flower turned to Hua Cheng.

"Thank you. Your help is really appreciated."

"I'm not helping for free." The god stood up, changing to his younger form again. "You owe me. And you already know what I want."

The Calamity didn't answer for a while, quietly watching both gods distance themselves from him.

Right before he crossed the entrance to return to the streets of Ghost City, he heard that now familiar voice, in a sad, strained voice.

"Of course I know, my dear San Lang..."

Chapter Text

The Great Martial Hall was in chaos, again. The reason being the Earth Master, a righteous and responsible god being subject to Ghost Flower’s cruelty. Of course, that was the excuse used by the majority to be there. Their actual intention was to babble nonsense about hunting a Calamity.

‘As if any of them could do it’, thought Hua Cheng, leaning against a pillar, where he could see and hear anything, but only participate when directly asked. And they were making him too many questions today, his patience running thin at this point.

“This is outrageous! We can’t leave that thing doing whatever he wants without any consequences.” Said a minor martial god, Bai Kao. Why were always the weakest who barked things like that?

“Oh, you can go and punish him, if you want.” Answered Mu Qing, rolling his eyes. “If you’ll return alive or not doesn’t matter, right?”

“You! How dare you say that? You just let that bastard live when you had the perfect opportunity to take him down!” A few voices agreed with him, and he felt validated enough to keep accusing. “Three of the most powerful Martial Gods against only one ghost and you did nothing!”

“You would be dead before you could draw your sword. Who are you to even think you can question our decision?” Mu Qing crossed his arms, even more annoyed than before. At his side, Feng Xin glared daggers at the idiot little god. If that kept going, he would make an arrow go through Bai Kao’s brain. Oh, Hua Cheng would love to see that.

“You were cowards! Giving your backs to your responsibilities! Not even that stupid prince you served were a coward like…”

“Why is Xianle being brought up?” The Emperor’s voice interrupted before Hua Cheng himself could do it. “Don’t start arguing about something you weren’t there to live, Bai Kao.”

“Excuse me, my Lord, but I don’t understand why Hua Cheng, Xuan Zhen and Nan Yang weren’t punished by their inappropriate behavior. They could have defeated Blood Covering Ghost Flower together and put an end to that awful creature. If they had done that, the poor Earth Master wouldn’t suffer in those vicious hands.”

Hua Cheng snorted, Mu Qing rolled his eyes again and Feng Xin put his hand a bit too close to his bow.

“I ordered, a long time ago, that no one should attack a Ghost King if they were not a threat. Are you disagreeing with my order, Bai Kao?” The Emperor stood up and Hua Cheng could clearly see the young god tremble. “I don’t think most of you can understand the power he has. Blood Covering Ghost Flower is a Ghost King born from Mount TongLu. That kind of ghosts are strong enough to make me think twice before fighting them. And everyone here knows that I won against one of them before.”

“H-How could Blood Covering Ghost Flower not be considered a threat? Bai Wuxiang destroyed one country and you fought him. Ghost Flower had destroyed more countries than that and he’s not a threat, my Lord?”

It was Hua Cheng’s turn to roll his eyes, Mu Qing having to actively hold Feng Xin’s arm before he could reach his bow. They looked at each other for a moment and that seemed to calm down the archer.

“From all his activities, the only one that would justify some action is the Yong’an’s Gilded Banquet Massacre. But only one god has the right to act on it, and that is Tai Hua, not you or anyone else.”

“And what about Banyue?”

“Oh, don’t do it, child.” Intervened Pei Ming, smiling in a not amicable way. “We already know that he planned it all out for his daughter. She was a mixed race and both countries didn’t treat her with kindness. He helped her avenge herself, but didn’t have direct involvement with the war. And I should remind you that my Pei Xiu was the one to destroy Banyue, not Ghost Flower.”

“He planned it with the State Preceptor! Isn’t that enough involvement?”

“Are you implying Pei Xiu ascended without his own merit? And that my palace is linked to Ghost Flower?”

“I… Of course…”

“Of course you’re not. I’m only making a point to agree with our Lord. Ghost Flower isn’t a threat to Heaven as long as we keep doing our works. Only an idiot would attack him without any motive.”

“Ming Guang is right. Are things more clear to you now, Bai Kao?” Asked the Emperor. The minor god only nodded, his face burning with shame. Yes, that one would soon receive a visit from Ghost Flower. He totally acted like one of his targets. “I’ll investigate more about Earth Master situation. This meeting is over.”

Hua Cheng sighed, making his way to the exit.

“Hua Cheng, wait. I want to talk with you.” And there goes his plan to rest and return to Ghost City later.

Soon they were alone and the Emperor walked to him. “Did you met Ghost Flower this night?”

It was better to keep most of his business with the Calamity a secret from the Emperor, so he focused in another point.

“I was in the middle of a meeting with him when I found out about Ming Yi." Hua Cheng rolled his eyes, annoyed." Seriously, Jun Wu. You sent a Elemental God to spy on Ghost Flower? How dumb was that?”

“Earth Master has more competences than you know. And being an Elemental God made him perfect to the plan. He didn’t know much about our plans, but knew enough to misguide Ghost Flower’s curiosity."

"Misguiding him? Did you really think you can misguide someone like him for long?"

"He didn't appear to any god since Earth Master started to work with him. I did this to protect Heavens."

"Protect Heavens while putting a god in danger? Putting all gods in danger? We are lucky Ghost Flower didn't torture Ming Yi or planned to retaliate."

"Watch your tone, Hua Cheng." Excellent, Jun Wu was distracted from his initial question, so Hua Cheng kept going.

"Fuck that! He had Ming Yi imprisoned for days, did you know that? He appeared from nowhere in Mount Yujun, he could have killed Mu Qing and Feng Xin before I could even notice his presence. And not because we provoked him but because you did!"

"Earth Master's mission helped..."

"Bullshit and you know it! Don't lie to my face, you sent Lang QianQiu after Ming Yi and I'm sure it wasn't to help him at all! Dammit, how could you be so fucking stup-"

A grip on his neck interrupted his accusations, the palm against his throat was strong as steel.

"If you won't respect me by hierarchy, you'll do it by power."

With a vicious glint in his eyes, the Emperor brought Hua Cheng's body close with ease, as if he didn't weight a thing. The other god didn't change his posture, glaring at Jun Wu even if he couldn't even breathe.

He never saw the Emperor so angry, but this sudden violence were familiar enough to fuel his own hate for the man.

"I don't expect you or anyone to approve of my decisions, kid. I am the one who makes the rules, everyone will play by my will and anyone that turns against me won't live for long. I've been kind enough to accept your insolent behavior, but don't forget who's the one in control here."

A great 'go fuck yourself' was about to leave Hua Cheng's mouth, but some screams outside distracted him. A second later, everyone outside was screaming.

Jun Wu let go of his neck, annoyed, probably planning to check out what was happening, and Hua Cheng could breathe again. The relieve didn't last though, the doors of the Martial Hall suddenly opening.

Right in front of the doors stood a man wearing white, nearly translucent inner robes, red outer robes with little white flowers embroidered to it. Long, luscious dark hair half up in a simple style, only a white flower hairpin holding strands and braids together. A golden, crying mask with red tears painted on it turned to Hua Cheng.

Blood Covering Ghost Flower.

A Ghost King was visiting the Heavens. All the commotion on the streets were justified.

Petals surrounded Hua Cheng and he felt his whole body constricted. He couldn't even react before he as yanked in Ghost Flower's direction, only stopping when a delicate hand was firmly pressed in the middle of his back and he was right beside the ghost.

He could feel how strong that hand was, but didn't sense any sign of violence from it. The mask were looking forward now, directly at Jun Wu, who stood in the middle of the Great Martial Hall, one hand holding the other and staring back at the Calamity, as if waiting more something to happen.

The hand in his back trembled a little and soon all he could see were white petals all around. When he was able to look past it, they were in the pond right beside Ghost Flower's home. In Ghost City.

Wait.

Wait a second.

Had Ghost Flower just kidnapped him?

He didn't have the time to ask. His head suddenly hurt with the sudden screams from the communication array. Did Ling Wen contact him from the general array?

"How could this happen?!"

"He invaded Heavens! It's a threat!"

"He wants war! How insolent!"

"We need to kill him! Hunt him!"

"This can't be ignored, My Lord!"

"Everyone, please." Said Ling Wen, clearly stressed. "We are trying to contact Hua Cheng to make sure he's safe."

Hua Cheng sighed, ready to answer that he was fine. But fingertips touched his face, caressing softly. Ghost Flower was in front of him, so close he could feel his body lightly pressing his.

"Well, I have unfinished business with my dear Hua Cheng." The whole array shut up and Hua Cheng didn't move. Ghost Flower not only had invaded Heavens, but the communication array as well! "If someone didn't like my actions, please, feel free to come punish me in Ghost City. I'll be waiting for you."

The heavy silence in the array was answer enough. Only the Emperor would be able to come after Ghost Flower. But would he? Something in Hua Cheng's mind said Jun Wu wouldn't do anything about this.

The connection was shut down, but the touch of Ghost Flower's fingers didn't leave his skin. By the contrary, the caress slid down to his neck, trembling a bit.

Had Jun Wu's hand left a bruise there? By the small flow of spiritual energy the ghost was sending to the region, the answer was yes. And, again, Hua Cheng couldn't fight it, letting him do what he pleased.

"Gege..." The word slipped through his lips without thinking, in a weird, breathless tone. Ghost Flower nodded and took a step back.

"He's an asshole. It's better to avoid being alone with him, San Lang. If he touches you again, I'll..."

"How?"

"Excuse me?"

"How did you know?" Hua Cheng closed the distance between them, confused and a bit angry, at himself, for letting the Ghost King took such liberty with him. Ghost Flower tried to take another step back, but Hua Cheng took him by the shoulders. "I was alone with the Emperor in the place where his power is practically unlimited. How did you know what was happening?"

The crying mask stared at him, while the small body trembled again.

"You... You weren't exactly alone." Hua Cheng arched one eyebrow while Ghost Flower raised a hand. A really small skeleton fish peaked from underneath one of his vambraces struggling a bit to be free. Once in the air, the fish floated to Ghost Flower's hand, getting petted. "Thank you, little one. You can return to the pond now."

"You... You made the fishes?"

"Oh, no. I just control them. It was a gift from my little He Xuan."

"Who's that?"

"Oh, you'll know him soon."

"So you used that fish to spy on me?"

"I could only hear things. I was worried about the plan, that asshole could turn violent towards Ming Yi at anytime and I wouldn't let him hurt my friend that easily." Ghost Flower sighed, his hands taking the god's face. "I'm so sorry, San Lang. It was my fault that he touched you."

"He wouldn't hurt me, gege. I'm still an important god for him to use."

"Had he done this to you before?"

"I never offended him like that, so no."

"I see. I'm glad you are fine." Ghost Flower stepped back again, and pointed to the tea still on the table. "I kept it warm. Let's keep talking, shall we?"

They seated and Hua Cheng was served tea again. After taking a sip, the god looked at the pond.

"Have you met him before?"

His tone of voice was enough to know who was he talking about.

"Yes."

"Why... Why can't I find him?"

"He doesn't want to be found, San Lang. He's still grieving."

"About his past?"

"His lover." Hua Cheng looked at him, confused, but Ghost Flower wasn't looking at him, his hands petting some fishes again. They really liked their owner.

"His Highness didn't... He didn't had a lover, his cultivation path..."

"They weren't intimate. Well, I guess they weren't even together in the first place. But they loved each other, and that's what matters in the end of the day."

Silence fell between them, Hua Cheng's heart so hurt he could feel it in his throat. So his Highness had someone else in his heart...

No, no. He couldn't be selfish. His Highness was out there alone and grieving. He needed to find him.

"He already knows you are after him, San Lang." Answered Ghost Flower, and only then the god noticed he said that last part out loud. But more important than that, his god knew about him?!

"How..."

"He had known that for a long time. But he doesn't want to be found. He is afraid and ashamed, so he keeps hiding himself."

"What is he afraid of? Is he in some danger?"

"Oh, no, San Lang. He's afraid of the possibilities. Isn't the change frightening?"

Hua Cheng didn't answered, again, sipping at his tea. He could understand the situation and he felt like he had to respect his Highness's decision.

But he was stubborn too and didn't want to let it go.

"I want to find him, anyway. Do you know where he is or how to find him?"

"Oh, San Lang, that..."

The front door of the house opened again and Ghost Flower sighed.

"Ghost Flower, are you fucking crazy?! The Emperor will kill you, you stupid..."

In a second, Ghost Flower appeared in front of Ming Yi. In the other, the god was being dragged by hair to the pond.

Hua Cheng couldn't move while Ghost Flower entered the pound and started to drown Ming Yi. The Ghost King presence was concealed before, but now Hua Cheng felt all his body scream at him to run and protect himself. Not even Jun Wu's anger made him feel like that, but he calmed a bit seeing his colleague cough when Ghost Flower took his head out of the water.

"You..."

And then he was drowning again. And again. And again.

Hua Cheng didn't know how many times that repeated in front of him, paralyzed by the table.

Then, Ghost Flower grabbed Ming Yi by his nape, his hand crushing the skin beneath it. The god panted and grunted in pain.

"Jun Wu touched him. Because of you."

Ghost Flower was that mad for Hua Cheng?

"It wasn't... I swear I didn't..."

"I don't care. If this happens again, you'll lose everything you love. And don't try to say you love nothing, Ming Yi. We both know that's a lie."

They stared at each other for some time, until Ming Yi sighed, his body defeated.

"I'm sorry. Won't happen again."

"Good." Carefully, as if he didn't just threatened the Earth Master's life and love, Ghost Flower helped him stand up and walk to the seat next to Hua Cheng. "Did the bastard sent you?"

"No, not me. But he did sent gods to rescue Hua Cheng. And you won't like it."

"Baba." BanYue's voice came from behind them and Hua Cheng turned to her. She was beautifully dressed, a real princess in purple and gold. At her side, looking a bit worried, a middle court god, the same one Pei Ming mentioned earlier in the meeting: Pei Xiu.

Was Pei Xiu her partner?

"My dear, you look beautiful."

"Thanks, baba. But I've come to alert you. General Nan Yang and General Xuan Zhen entered the city moments ago."

"Of course that asshole would sent Feng Xin and Mu Qing. He knows I won't kill them." Hua Cheng didn't understand why wouldn't the Ghost King kill those useless trash.

Did it have something to do about the altars in the city? Or it was because of His Highness?

What was the relationship between Ghost Flower and His Highness?

"What you gonna do now?" Asked Ming Yi, serving himself of tea and drinking it in one go.

"I'll receive them, of course. BanYue, please, guide them to Paradise Manor. I'll be there in a moment." The girl and Pei Xiu nodded and disappeared. "Ming Yi return to Heavens and don't put yourself in danger anymore until your plan. Lay low and stay away from Jun Wu."

"I'll try."

"Don't try, do it. Jun Wu isn't as kind as me and you know that." Hua Cheng wanted to ask what exactly did Ghost Flower considered being kind when he had just tortured the Earth Master.

The god nodded and the Calamity turned to Hua Cheng, his soaked clothes drying fast at his command.

"My dear San Lang, would you come with me to Paradise Manor?"

"Where's that, gege?"

"It's my other property here in Ghost City. I can't just bring anyone to my home, so I normally do business in the manor." The Ghost King offered his hand to Hua Cheng. "So. Come with me?"

Chapter Text

Paradise Manor was nothing like the humble, cozy home they were before. In fact, it was more luxurious than some palaces in Heavens. Red was the primary color used in everything, black and silver too. They were workers there, many of them taking care of the manor and their guests.

Hua Cheng walk beside Ghost Flower.

"This is where I imagined you living in."

"Well, it is a beautiful house, yeah. But is not a home." Ghost Flower opened a door for him. "My home is for my beloved family and friends. This place is for work."

Hua Cheng did understand the concept, because he himself didn't have a home for all his life. Only houses.

They entered a big hall, with dancers and musicians performing; a banquet being served in a long table and a throne positioned in a higher platform. Ghost Flower went directly there, seating and sighing, calling him close. Hua Cheng went there, but didn't get up the stairs, standing near Ghost Flower, but not that much.

After a few moments, the door at the other side opened and four people passed through it. BanYue went directly at his father, sitting in the throne's armrest. Pei Xiu stopped right beside the throne, standing like a guard there.

Feng Xin and Mu Qing stood together in the middle of the hall, looking at Ghost Flower and Hua Cheng. The performers and employers didn't need a sign or order, they knew how to leave so subtly that Hua Cheng only noticed their absence because of the sudden silence.

"So... The Emperor had sent you to punish me." Asked Ghost Flower and Hua Cheng couldn't help but smile. He was pressing the gods on purpose.

But what was his purpose, exactly?

"We came to negotiate. We don't want to engage in battle with you or any of your subjects." Said Mu Qing, taking the lead in the talk. It was better that way, he was much more clever than Feng Xin in negotiations.

"You say that but you came with your weapons to find me. How am I supposed to relax being unarmed and vulnerable before you?"

The gods looked at each other and, silently, both disposed of their weapons, putting them on a table nearby. Feng Xin took a few steps away from the weapons, crossing his arms.

"We really just want to talk."

"Negotiate. Mu Qing said you were here to negotiate with me. But I don't remember making an offer to any of you."

"We are here to negotiate Hua Cheng's rescue." Mu Qing didn't sway at his provocations, and Hua Cheng leaned against the wall, curious about the interaction.

"Rescue? Does he need to be rescue?"

"You kidnapped him from Heaven." Said Feng Xin, confused.

"I guess I did."

"So, we came to rescue him."

"That doesn't make sense. I'll not hurt my dear Hua Cheng. And the two of you should know that already. You saw by yourselves how I act with him." Hua Cheng felt a strange warm sensation in his chest with Ghost Flower's words. "He's not in danger, so no need to rescue him."

"Would you let him leave with us?" Mu Qing was clearly annoyed by the way Ghost Flower was treating them.

"Why would I?"

"If you won't, then you are keeping him captive. And we are here to negotiate his freedom."

"Oh, I see. Freedom." Ghost Flower touched his mask, in an exaggerate way, like he was deciding about it. "Well, I want Hua Cheng. Do you have something more precious than him to offer me?"

The question took both by surprise and Ghost Flower stood up, descending the few steps slowly.

"We don't know what you would like to receive." Explained Mu Qing. "But Heavens is willing to get you whatever you want."

"I want Hua Cheng."

"You can't ask for the one we've come to rescue." Retorted Feng Xin, crossing his arms.

"Can't I? Well..." The Calamity walked until he was before Feng Xin. "So can I have Mu Qing?"

"Baba?!" BanYue's reaction was exactly what everyone was feeling. Mu Qing himself looked like a lost kitten, all his posture from before broken by Ghost Flower's price. Hua Cheng himself didn't know what to feel.

Feng Xin only stared at the mask, shocked. Ghost Flower turned to Mu Qing, getting closer to him. His hand touched the god's face and Hua Cheng knew the touch was delicate, the fingertips soft and gentle.

"Why do you want him?" Asked the archer.

"Do you really need to ask, Feng Xin? If you have looked at him before, you'll know the answer." Another gasp escaped BanYue's mouth and Hua Cheng felt a bad taste in his tongue. Mu Qing trembling breath, confused and surprised at the same time, came to a halt with the ghost's fingers caressing his chin.

"What the fuck are you doing?!" Feng Xin suddenly grabbed Mu Qing wrist, pulling him behind himself, using his body as a shield. "Mu Qing it's not an object to you just..."

"Is he off limits too? I can't have Hua Cheng, I can't have Mu Qing..." Ghost Flower turned to Feng Xin. "So what about you? Can I have you?"

"Fuck!" If Feng Xin screamed because of the question or because of how Mu Qing pulled him away from Ghost Flower, no one could know.

But the Calamity started laughing at that.

"Oh, my. Look at your faces. And I didn't even say something scandalous."

"Baba! That was not funny!" Complained BanYue.

"I'm sorry, I couldn't help myself." The Ghost King made a dismissive gesture with one hand. "Don't need to be afraid, I'll never ask for a person as a price. Well, maybe Hua Cheng, but he's special."

Feng Xin and Mu Qing stared at Hua Cheng immediately, making him avert their eyes. He was still feeling that bad taste, not for the joke, but... Did Ghost Flower touched everyone like he did with Hua Cheng? It was just part of his personality being so flirty?

Ghost Flower backed away a few steps, leaving enough space for both gods feel more at ease.

"I do want something." His voice, now, was so serious the gods questioned how didn't they notice he was provoking them just now. "It's not an easy thing to get, but it's the only object that I want."

"Heaven is rich enough to get you anything you like." Said Mu Qing, carefully.

"It's not about money. I want a ring. The one Jun Wu uses in this finger." Ghost Flower showed his right hand, pointing to his pinky. Then, he took a ring from his robes. It was a golden band, simple and easy to spot. Hua Cheng knew that ring, one Jun Wu never took out. "It's exactly like this one."

"The Emperor wouldn't deny such menial price..."

"You can't go and ask him for the ring. It's not that simple, he would certainly react badly and you would be in danger if you show any sign of interest on it. You'll have to be cautious against him." Ghost Flower tossed the fake ring and Mu Qing caught it in the air. "He won't notice the ring is gone if you use that one as a substitute. And that's my price to let my dear Hua Cheng go up with you. Swap the rings and bring the original to me."

The gods shared a look, silent for few moments. And then Feng Xin spoke.

"This could take time."

"I'll give you one year to pay me. Until then, my dear Hua Cheng is free to go wherever he wants. But if you don't pay me on time, I'll take my Hua Cheng again and then I'll kill Feng Xin."

Feng Xin paled and it was Mu Qing turn to put himself in front of him. Even Hua Cheng tensed at that, confused. Not even an hour earlier Ghost Flower said he wouldn't kill the Southern gods, and that Jun Wu knew that. Why was he threatening them now?

"Gege, that's not a good joke..."

"I'm not joking." His tone of voice didn't leave room to doubt. "I took you out of there because I don't want you near Jun Wu anymore."

"I don't think gege can decide something like that..."

"And here you are."

Hua Cheng couldn't answer that. Yes, he was here, because Ghost Flower wanted it. He just didn't understand why and he won't go and ask him in front the pair of idiots. So he just leaned against the wall again.

"Is that what you wanted all along? To kill Feng Xin?" Mu Qing's voice were firm, even offended, but Hua Cheng could hear the underneath desperation he was feeling. Nearly a millennia coexisting made him aware of this subtly changes on his colleagues. Ghost Flower turned at him.

"I want Hua Cheng and I'm a stubborn creature. If you want him too, you'll have pay me greatly. You'll lie and betray Jun Wu. If you're caught, you could be banished for treason or imprisoned. If you don't get the ring on time, Feng Xin dies. There's nothing for you to win in this situation."

Ghost Flower closed the distance between them, staring at Mu Qing.

"Is the mission he gave you both that important? Is leaving Hua Cheng with me that difficult?" His hands took Mu Qing's face softly, like he was talking to a child. The god's expression remained the same but his eyes were clearly terrified. "What you hold dearest, Mu Qing? Your reputation or his life?"

That was a good question, thought Hua Cheng. Mu Qing always put his own business above anything and everything. But only a idiot, like both gods, wouldn't know what will be the answer.

"I accept the deal."

Ghost Flower turned to Feng Xin and Mu Qing looked at him with disbelief.

"Excuse me?"

"It's my life at stake here and I accept the deal. I won't give you the pleasure to end me, Ghost Flower. You'll have the stupid ring before the next Mid Autumn Banquet."

"You could just leave me behind." Interrupted Hua Cheng.

"I won't. The Emperor trusted us to take you back and that's what we'll do. It's not like we would take that long to replace a fucking ring, we are not that stupid."

Mu Qing couldn't say anything, observing Feng Xin in pure shock. Ghost Flower sighted, turning his back to them and returning to his throne.

"We have a deal, then. But Jun Wu can't know about this, so you can report to him that the price was another favor. A message from me." Ghost Flower sat at his throne and Mu Qing stared at him with a bitter expression.

"What message?"

Once again, Ghost Flower's power exploded through the hall, some glasses in the table breaking with the intensity of it. Hua Cheng forced his body to stay still, because all he wanted to do was to fall to his knees. But he wasn't afraid, like earlier. It just felt like it was the right thing to do.

Mu Qing and Feng Xin didn't expect the sudden change in atmosphere, taking a step back, closer to one another, their bodies ready to run or fight.

"Tell Jun Wu that if he tries to hurt my Hua Cheng again, I'll burn all Heavens down to ashes. Gods included."

BanYue smirked at his side, Pei Xiu keeping his poker face like always. The Southern gods looked at Hua Cheng for a moment, before nodding. Once more, Hua Cheng couldn't understand Ghost Flower's wishes, but it wouldn't do any good focus in that now. He'll have to wait to make all the relevant questions he had in mind.

"Negotiations are over." With a clap of the Calamity's hands, all the hall was lively again, with dancers, music and food being served. "You are free to go or to stay and enjoy the end of the Festival."

"We'll..."

"Return to Heavens now." Mu Qing interrupted, his expression closed and his body rigid.

"Don't worry, San Lang. We'll see each other again. Soon." Ghost Flower stood up, watching the three gods walk away. And then, he turned and exited the hall, marching through the corridors.

"Baba! Please, baba, wait!" His daughter's voice made him stop. Her tiny hand took his, thumbs in a soothing caress. "Baba, are you sure... About all this?"

Silence dominated the air for a long moment, BanYue waiting for his father's answer. Ghost Flower didn't turn to her, his mask looking forward, but BanYue felt the little tremors in the muscles beneath skin.

She asked that, concerned about her father's emotions. But, in the end, there was something much more sensible in all this ordeal, so she knew the answer before Ghost Flower said it.

"I am."

Chapter Text

"My Lord."

Lei Huo's voice made Hua Cheng sigh, his body refusing to stop his training. E-ming mirrored his annoyance, cutting the air every time the god guided it to.

"My Lord." Repeated the man, a bit louder this time. He was ignored again.

Since returning from Ghost City, Hua Cheng was feeling restless. His mind was always occupied by his God, by His Highness, by the only one he devoted himself to. But now, another person started to appear in his thoughts, here and there, everyday growing more present, to the point Hua Cheng had to actively change some of his routine.

Because every time someone poured him tea, he remembered gloved, delicate hands doing it. So, now he started to serve himself.

Every time he walked by the pond in his palace and had a glimpse of white scales, he remembered a red clad figure petting small skeleton fishes. So, he ordered all white fishes to be removed from there.

Every time he was alone, the silence around him made him uneasy, nervous. His eye unconsciously searched for the small frame behind him. So, he avoided loneliness altogether, leaving his office's door opened, training in public places, eating near his deputies.

But in his bedroom, he was always alone. Luckily, his knees knew when to reach the ground in penitence, the altar in a corner providing him a safe place to his body and mind. There, he could put out all his worries, all his fears, the statue before him never judging, always smiling and reassuring him. Like His Highness did to him before, holding him, comforting him, protecting him.

He couldn't protect his god before. He couldn't find his god for the last centuries. And, now, another one was occupying his thoughts. Really, how much of a failure could he be?

"My Lord." The deputy called, for the third time. "It's about Ghost Flower."

Now, Hua Cheng stopped mid movement, E-Ming trembling in his hand. It only stopped after a slap.

"What about him?"

"He left a box in one of your temples. No one saw him enter or even nearby, though."

"If no one saw him, how do you know it was him to left it?"

"He left a note." Hua Cheng arched his eyebrow and turned to Lei Huo, seeing the box on his hands.

Well, he didn't need to read the note to know it was from the Calamity: the white flowers painted in the wood were exactly the same embroidered in Ghost Flower's robes. He approached, taking the box in his hands.

"Had someone opened it?"

"No, we... We don't know if it's something dangerous, so we didn't want to risk." Hua Cheng nodded, a bit proud.

All his deputies were intelligent and extremely cautious. Nearly all of them were married too, faithful and devoted to their loved ones. Anyone in Heavens could pinpoint a deputy of his palace by their behavior: they were harsh, proud and even rude with others, some of them actually put gods in trouble after exposing some kind of threat or bribery they received. They were fiercely loyal to their god.

Hua Cheng, deep down, liked them too. He didn't say it aloud, but everyone in his palace had experienced more than once his gentleness.

Just like Ghost Flower, Hua Cheng was beloved by the ones who followed him.

"I'll inspect it now. Tell everyone to stay away from the training grounds for a moment. If I don't communicate with you in a while, it's because it wasn't something dangerous."

Lei Huo bowed and left, already passing his order ahead. Hua Cheng looked at the box before sitting at the ground, legs crossed and the box at his lap.

His fingers traced the paintings absent-mindedly and then he grabbed the note. Opening it, he met a neat, beautiful calligraphy in a deep red ink. It was a short, direct message.

'A Mid-Autumn gift for my San Lang, and it would look wonderful with a ponytail.'

Hua Cheng left the note beside him and opened the lid. Smiling, he touched it's content. A few steps got closed to him and Hua Cheng sighed.

"You knew I was coming stop acting like I am a nuisance." Mu Qing complained, stopping at his side.

"You are a nuisance."

"What's that?" He asked, ignoring Hua Cheng's comment.

"A gift, I guess."

The Southern God lowered himself, a knee at the ground while taking a look to the box. Then, he grabbed the note, raising an eyebrow.

"This... Is this from Ghost Flower?" Mu Qing's voice was slightly surprised, but he obviously tried to not convey his real feelings on his tone. Hua Cheng nodded, eye fixed in the box. Mu Qing hummed and then he got up. "It's seems pretty. You should use it in the Banquet tomorrow."

"Why?"

"Why not? It would scare the shit out of everyone, doesn't it sound like fun?" Answered Mu Qing. "Come, stop day dreaming about him, we need to work on that report the Emperor asked us to review."

Hua Cheng blinked at the idea, smiling and getting up too. Well, it wouldn't be bad to please the Calamity that knew so much about his God. Maybe, that way he could get more information about His Highness whereabouts.

And that was the only reason, he repeated to himself. Just like he obeyed Jun Wu, he would please Ghost Flower. The Emperor and the Ghost King were useful tools to help him reach his own objectives.

Even if he felt differently about it.

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Mu Qing was right. Everyone in the banquet was scared like they saw Ghost Flower himself wandering Heaven's streets. But it was only Hua Cheng...

In completely black robes, with silver butterflies embroidered beside little white flowers around the hem. The fabric was extremely soft at the touch and the robes hugged his body in a fitted way. His long hair was up in a simple ponytail, with a butterfly hairpin in there. He wore jewelry too, silver dangling in his ears, neck and hands.

The whole outfit was Ghost Flower's gift and everyone noticed it right away, trying to get out of his way, avoiding to even look at him for longer than necessary. As if kidnapping him wasn't enough, Ghost Flower purposely sent him these clothes to make clear who was the one beside the god.

But it wasn't a message to Heavens, Hua Cheng noticed, as soon as he seated in the long table of the Banquet. It was a message to Jun Wu, specifically. And by the way the Emperor's expression changed, his tongue making a nearly inaudible click, it worked.

"Woah, Hua Cheng, look at you." Pei Ming said, sitting right next to him. "You are the proof that popular saying is absolutely correct."

"Saying?"

"For man to look handsome, they must dress in all black." It was another voice who answered. Earth Master sat at his other side, immediately starting to eat.

Hua Cheng ignored both of them, rolling his eyes and starting to eat too. In front of him, both South Gods sat, serving themselves, always arguing but never separated. Hua Cheng acknowledged their presence with a nod, but kept eating in silence.

But the silent treatment didn't make General Ming Guang to shut up.

"Ah, so cold. It's a surprise Ghost Flower took such interest on you. What technique did you use on him?" Ming Guang question didn't even make sense. At least, until he finished his thoughts. "It must have been wonderful for him to pursue you so much. The sex, I mean."

Mu Qing choked so hard in his food that even the Emperor turned to look at him. Feng Xin readily offered him a drink and the god gulped a whole cup of tea at once, still coughing at the comment.

"You shouldn't make this kind of assumptions, General Ming Guang." Clarified Mu Qing, once he could talk again. "It may be... Dangerous for you."

"He's right." Shrugged Ming Yi, without stopping eating. "Implying something vulgar about his favorite one it's not a good idea."

"I'm not trying to offend, but for what other reason could someone like him be so invested in our esteemed Hua Cheng?"

That was a question Hua Cheng himself didn't know the answer to. Mu Qing, whatever, interrupted again.

"Since when does a King need a reason to do whatever he wants? Drop the bullshit, General, you just want the gossip." His voice was rude enough to get him a subtle warning kick from Feng Xin.

Pei Ming, by the way, took the comment lightly, laughing at it.

"Xuan Zhen is so clever. I hoped to get a few interesting details from Ghost Flower here." The Northern god sighed. "Well... Maybe we would see him in our little theater tonight?"

Hua Cheng didn't pay anymore attention to them after that, changing a few pleasantries with some gods who approached slowly to greet him, eating all the while.

At his side, Ming Yi did the same until a high pitched voice calling 'Ming-xiong' sounded near. Then, the man simply got up and disappeared. Shi QingXuan, the Wind Master, looked around and, not finding the one he came here to see, returned to her brother's side.

A few entertainment activities happened in the table, with Hua Cheng ignoring everything, lost in his own thoughts.

Even if it was just for the sake of the gossip, Pei Ming made an excellent point earlier: knowing why Ghost Flower was so interested on him would be, at least, enlightening. He would be able to work based on that reason, using it to properly get what he wanted.

Even knowing that his Highness didn't want him to find him... He needed to. He worked the last 800 years with all these useless, trash, idiots, just for that. He was letting a fucking Calamity into his life, just for that.

Couldn't he, just for once, reach and hold his God?

"That's impossible." The strong voice cut off Hua Cheng's thoughts, making him aware of his surroundings again. Something was happening, because everyone looked at edge, some were yelling, others were accusing Ling Wen's palace of not doing their work properly. Hua Cheng looked around, trying to make sense of the situation, but everything seemed normal, except...

Why was the sky so dark?

"There must be an explanation." Said the Emperor, standing up and placating the situation. "We need to investigate it..."

"We don't need to, my Lord. All temples had reported the same thing. They won't be sending Blessing Lanterns this year. It was an order and they won't dare disobey it."

"An order from who?" Asked Jun Wu, but really... Did he need to ask?

Only one being was known and powerful enough to order something like this. Only one being would fright the humans to the point they preferred insulting their gods than disobeying him. Only one man could make Heavens so humiliated like that.

Blood Covering Ghost Flower.

"Wait, my Lord." Interrupted Ling Wen. "I'm sorry for the misinformation. Actually, there is one Blessing Lantern sent."

All gods looked at her, surprised. One Lantern? Just one? Who dared?

In fact, one lonely lantern floated into the dark sky.

Only one bright point, calmly crossing the night, all eyes on it and silence fell into all Heaven.

The lonely lantern was so unique that no one present would ever forget the sensation of looking at it.

And Hua Cheng, mesmerized by the lantern, felt something in his chest bloom.

When Ling Wen announced the winner, she didn't need to raise her voice to be heard.

"The first place in the Battle of the Lanterns this year is the Palace of Hua Cheng, with one lantern from QianDeng Temple."

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A Calamity approached a Calamity that night, steps echoing in the temple.

"Ghost Flower." Called Black Water Sinking Ships. He didn't receive any answer from the other ghost for a moment. Only when Ghost Flower got up from kneeling before an altar, he answered.

"Didn't I told you to stay in Heavens?"

"I've come to bid my farewell."

Silence surrounded them for a few moments. When Ghost Flower turned around to look at him, he was not using his mask. His worried expression so full of emotions made He Xuan posture relax.

He wasn't talking to Ghost Flower here. He was talking to Xie Lian.

It was not like they were two separate people. But he would never treat them both the same way. Ghost Flower was a Ghost King, an ally, one he respected and even feared. But Xie Lian was just his friend, loved as if he were his own brother.

"A-Xuan..."

"I'll start tomorrow. His third Heavenly Calamity is getting near. If I don't strike now, I won't be able to do it anymore." He Xuan closed the distance between them, taking his hands in a reassuring way. They were trembling, exactly the same way they did when He Xuan told him his plan.

"I'm not asking you to not take revenge. But ending your own existence afterwards?"

"I won't have anything but resentment holding me here, Lian-ge." The sweet tone in his voice reminded him of how he talked to his little sister. Which was a little ironic, because he was a lot younger than Xie Lian. "You have your dear Hua Cheng, but I... I don't have anything to return to."

"Not even Shi QingXuan?"

"Lian-ge... How would he love me after what I plan to do with his brother?" He Xuan sighed. "He would always choose Shi Wudu. And I don't really judge him for it, so I just accepted the things the way they are."

"I..." Xie Lian sighed, smiling a bit. "If you change your mind, I'll always be here for you, A-Xuan. But if you don't..." Taking a step back, Xie Lian bowed. "My soul would be forever grateful for being blessed with your friendship."

He Xuan mirrored his action.

"I was the one blessed for meeting you, Lian-ge. Thank you."

Chapter Text

Mu Qing turned around a few times before the mirror, making sure the greyish blue outer robe he just finished sewing was in perfect condition to be used. It was not a particularly lavish one, but it was elegant in it's fitting and delicate silver embroidery. And it looked perfect combined with light gray inner robes, his hair only partially up, without any jewelry, and a simple fan in his hand.

His fingers trembled while he was looking at himself in the mirror, but he soon controlled them. He was a practical man; he saw problems with a clear mind and solved them the easier way. And his actual problem was making a scene while stomping through his palace, being avoided by all Mu Qing's deputies. They knew better than stay in Feng Xin's way.

His bedroom's door opened without a warning, but Mu Qing only turned around, without stressing himself. Feng Xin was stressed enough for them both.

"You better have an excellent reason to be ignoring me all... Why are you dressed like that? It's your day off or something?"

Rolling his eyes, Mu Qing sighed.

"I do not have the time to deal with whatever you want to tell me. I'll be late, so if you excuse me..."

"Be late for what?" He did not receive any answer while Mu Qing walked through the door. Feng Xin didn't stop, following him. "Where are you going?"

"I'm going to a meeting with His Majesty."

"There's no meeting with him today."

"It's a private one." Mu Qing nodded to his deputies, a sign that he had everything under control and they could keep doing their jobs without caring about Feng Xin. He crossed the threshold of his palace, walking into the street. "I'll talk with you later. I don't want to be late."

"Why do you have a private meeting with the Emperor?" Asked Feng Xin, but then something clicked inside his head. Before he could think of it, his hand closed around his counterpart arm. "I asked you something."

"You are ruining my robes."

"I'll do worse if you don't answer."

"Since when do I need to give you any kind of explanation? This doesn't have anything to do with you." Feng Xin's hand didn't move, his grip even stronger now. "Let go."

"Why are you going to a private meeting with the Emperor, Mu Qing?"

"I told you to let go."

"Answer."

"Let go. Now."

"Mu Qing, I swear, if you are scheming again-" Feng Xin was interrupted by a punch in the right side of his mouth. With the sudden impact, he was forced to take a few steps back.

"In that stupid mind of yours, I'm always scheming, so why do you still care to ask?" Mu Qing turned to keep walking but soon enough he was reminded exactly why he shouldn't respond to Feng Xin's provocations.

In mere seconds, they both were throwing hands in the middle of the street. No words between them just rage, pain and more rage. It didn't take long for the conflict to escalate once more.

But beneath it all, this time, both of them were full of regrets.

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Hua Cheng had convinced himself that appearing in Ghost City again, a week after the Banquet, wouldn't be a big deal. He wanted to ask about the lantern and thank the Calamity about such... Gift. And then he could ask more about His Highness.

But he wasn't received by anyone once he arrived. In fact, the ghosts actively avoided him, minding their own business with concentration. He was about to stop and ask what was happening when a small female ghost approached.

"Oh, look who's here again." Hua Cheng looked around, recognizing Meili. She was wearing pretty lavender robes, without any tear or stain, and a few little ghost fire followed her. "Hello, My Lord."

Should Hua Cheng be surprised by the respect? After the Mid-Autumn Festival, probably not.

"Hello, Meili. Thank you for the hospitality last time."

"No, I should be one grateful. Thanks to your visit, His Highness said it would please him if I help these little ghosts for him. They are lost, just like you were last time and he said I was perfect for the job. Because of it, everyone now respects me, I have a good home and I'm paid greatly." She laughed a bit, her delicate and elegant manners being easily noticed now. Maybe, she was that kind of human before...

"I'm glad my visit brought such blessing to you."

"Of course you are glad, I even left money to thank you, jeez." The god sighed.

"Well, I guess pleasing Ghost Flower is enough to make the citizens like you. But now I feel like they are avoiding me?"

"It's just... No one dares getting too close to you. But they like you, that's a given. Since His Highness met you, he haven't cry once."

Hua Cheng raised an eyebrow but Meili didn't stop talking.

"So, are you here to see His Highness, right? Unfortunately, he's not in town."

"I see..."

A male voice interrupted him.

"My Lord is always welcome to Ghost Flower's territory." Hua Cheng turned around, meeting that one guy in black and a demon mask covering his face. The one who made tea for him the last time.

"Waning Moon Officer." Called Meili, bowing to him. "It's a pleasure seeing you again."

"Meili, His Highness is pleased with the work you've been doing. Please, keep it that way."

"Of course, of course! Let's go, little ones, I'll show you our home now... See you soon, My Lord!" She started to walk away, all the little flames following her. Hua Cheng looked at the Waning Moon Officer.

"I suppose you are here to tell me something."

"Why do you think that, My Lord?"

"You can enter Ghost Flower's home. So you should be someone important to him." Because that's what Ghost Flower himself said that night. His home is not for anyone.

Hua Cheng actively ignored about what that fact implied about himself.

"I think you could say that. Anyway, I don't personally have anything to tell you, but I'm here to answer your questions. His Highness knew you would come back for more information and told me to answer every question you had, as long I know the answer to them." The guy started to walk, calling Hua Cheng with a movement of his hand. Without much of a choice, the god followed him.

After some time, he was sitting in the table near the pound in Ghost Flower's house, serving tea for himself. The Waning Moon Officer sat in front of him, looking at his direction.

He could make any questions, right?

"Why... Why do you use a mask too?" He started, biting by the corners slowly. He didn't want to make himself look like a desperate man.

"It's my choice. I don't want to be recognized by most people. But I don't use it all the time." Explained the guy.

"Can I ask why you hide yourself?"

"You can ask anything, My Lord. And I'll answer if I know the information." He reassured. "I don't want most of Heavens knowing about my actual predicament. It could harm my shidi's already poor image."

"Do you have a shidi in Heavens?" It took two seconds for Hua Cheng to connect the dots. "Yin Yu?"

The Waning Moon Officer removed his mask, putting it on the table. Yin Yu wore a smile on his face, his eyes more alive than Hua Cheng had ever seen.

"Hello, Lord Hua Cheng."

"So it's here you've been all this time. Everyone wondered where you fled to." Hua Cheng took a sip from his tea. "How?"

"After my banishment, I parted ways with my deputy and was found by His Highness. He said I was a good man and that the Emperor was an idiot for letting such a thing happen to me." Yin Yu started to serve tea for himself too. "He told me to work for him, that he would provide everything I needed in exchange of my help. He always called it help, even if others may call it servitude."

For some reason, that made sense in Hua Cheng's mind.

"Your shidi is still looking for you."

"If even you believe that, than he's doing an excellent work hiding me." Yin Yu was now more sweet. "Most people would think he's childish, naive and doesn't had any self control. But he's loyal to the ones he trust and would do anything to protect them."

"So, he knows."

"It wasn't easy for me to accept and understand my own feelings. His Highness helped me with that, so when I felt ready, I looked out for him. Now, we see each other on free days."

"I see..." Hua Cheng looked at the pound, noticing the skeletons fishes there. They ignored the figures talking. "They only like Ghost Flower, right?"

"And their original owner. But he doesn't visit much, so they just stick to His Highness whenever he's around."

"He Xuan... Who is he?"

"His Highness's best friend. And little brother, if you ask him in a particularly emotional day." Yin Yu sighed softly. "I thought you were curious about His Highness."

"I am, but I already have some details from what you've told me so far. There are a lot of things we could know about someone by the way they interact with others."

"But you are only hearing things from someone who is dear to His Highness. Haven't you consider that I may be biased?" And there was the reason Ghost Flower said the Emperor was an idiot to let go of Yin Yu.

The man was intelligent, controlled and had excellent observations skills. He didn't have the charisma needed to be a upper court god, but he didn't lack anything else. Anyone who worked with him knew how stable and liable Yin Yu was.

"I think everyone knows how Ghost Flower is to those he doesn't like."

"Have you see him kill someone?" Pressed the banished god, drinking his tea as if he was talking about the garden. "Have you heard his voice when he's mad? Have you tried to hold your ground in a fight against him?" Hua Cheng didn't answer. "Of course not. Most people haven't, either. And that's a blessing, really. It's terrifying to look into his eyes when all he's feeling is resentment."

"So he takes off his mask." Yin Yu seemed surprised of being interrupted. But he smiled anyway. "I already know why he uses it and why the mask is crying. Does it have the same reason behind his cries?"

"Oh, so you already know of his Agony."

"What?"

"That's how we call it here. His Highness's crying it's not normal. When he cries, alone in the temple, all Ghost City can hear him. Everyone go back to their homes and just wait it to stop, in silent condolences, because when he stops crying... He hates." Yin Yu stared at Hua Cheng, his expression serious now. "He hates so much that you can feel it yourself if you are anywhere near. No one dares to go out until he calms down."

"Does it happen frequently?" Hua Cheng couldn't stop to think about the pain he himself was feeling now, he needed to know more, getting all the information he could.

"Every time His Highness comes to the city. He's not much present, but he comes sometimes a year. Well, it used to be like that. This time, His Highness didn't cry yet.".

"The citizens believe that I am responsible for that."

"They are right. Since meeting you, His Highness haven't cried, even if he had come twice to the city."

Silence fell between them. Yin Yu stared at him with that soft smile of his, waiting for the next question. Hua Cheng looked at the pound, avoiding the other stare. He didn't know how to react to that, yet. So he better change the subject.

"It's that temple you mentioned the QianDeng Temple?"

"Yes, it is. It's located un the outskirts of the city. And is very popular recently."

"I've never received a prayer from there." Confessed the god.

"Of course not, we are not allowed to pray. We can only burn incense and give offerings." Yin Yu pointed at the garden, at the other side of the house. "Except flowers. We can't leave flowers as offering to any of the gods."

"I guess it was an order from Ghost Flower... Tell me, how did he go and threatened all temples in the Mid-Autumn Festival?"

"I don't know, either. It was a surprise and everyone in the city were celebrating it like crazy. Our Highness can really make miracles happen." He was nothing but proud about Ghost Flower and Hua Cheng didn't think before making the next question.

"Do you like him?" His voice sounded a little more serious than he intended.

Again, he received silence as answer. Yin Yu seemed surprised by the question for a moment and, then, he nervously shook his head and hands.

"Not in that way, no! I respect His Highness and we are good friends, but I don't... I could never... I-I'm already married, so you don't have to worry, My Lord."

And then it was Hua Cheng turn to shake his head.

"I was not implying anything, I just- Wait. Are you married?"

"I am, My Lord. Anyway, as a friend, it's impossible not to like His Highness. He's gentle and noble, and would never hurt anyone without valid reason. He's loyal and protects his dear ones like a beast... But that you already know, of course."

Yes, he already knew that. All of that, and wasn't it the reason he was feeling so miserable lately?

Hua opened his mouth to ask more about how Yin Yu knew all this, but a sudden call in his private communication array made him stop.

'Lord Hua Cheng?' It was Ling Wen, and she seemed anxious.

'I'm listening.'

'We need your help. Lord Water Master had entered his third Heavenly Calamity...'

'I'm not helping with any party for him.'

'Not a party. He's in the middle of the sea, trying to control a storm. He isolated the area with a barrier, but it seems like a few boats were already inside by that time. We need help to rescue them.'

"Where are the others?'

'Unavailable. General Ming Guang, Lord Earth Master and Lord Wind Master are already there, but they are being dragged into Black Water's territory.'

'I fail to see exactly why I am needed.'

'Humans are in danger and it's our duty to protect them, right?'

'You all only want to protect that tyrant's reputation, don't lie to me.'

'So, are you going, Lord Hua Cheng? I'm sure you don't want to displease Our Majesty again.'

Hua Cheng didn't have the time to curse, Ling Wen cutting their connection.

"I guess I'll have to go now." Both men stood up, but only Hua Cheng walked to the entrance. "Yin Yu. You will tell me the truth, as long as you know about it."

"Yes."

"So, I have one last question."

"I'm here to answer, My Lord."

"Where is the Crown Prince of Xianle?"

Hua Cheng didn't turn back, so he couldn't see the way Yin Yu's expression had changed.

"I'm sorry, My Lord." It was the only thing he answered, and Hua Cheng sighed. If even Ghost Flower's right hand didn't know that, he would have to ask the Calamity directly.

Chapter Text

Obviously, the situation with the humans worsened to the point of no return. Hours passed by, and nearly all fishermen were rescued by the nightfall. The Water Master was dealing with his trials and all they could do was look for the humans who were lost and save them.

Hua Cheng didn't pay any attention to the other gods accompanying him or even the humans around, worried only about one thing: keep the boat under control, so it wouldn't draft into Black Water Sinking Ships's territory. As his name suggested, nothing floated in his waters and if they ended up there, not even their spiritual powers would be enough to keep them from sinking.

Easier said than done, of course, because he needed to force the boat to turn multiple times. The raging storm and the darkness made it nearly impossible to, in fact, avoid those dangerous waters. So, as the strongest god present, he was the only one capable of keeping all of them safe.

Near him, Pei Ming was tasked with protect them from the lightning that descended the skies, brandishing his sword time and time again. Earth Master and Wind Master were the ones who located and saved the fishermen. Every now and then, Ling Wen told them how many humans still were in the sea. Little by little, they were finishing this task and Hua Cheng could return to his palace to change those drenched robes and rest.

But, even if he did not want to pay attention to the others, Hua Cheng couldn't help but notice certain things.

The Water Master wasn't weak at all, a storm and a few water dragons shouldn't took this long to be dealt with. And it was probably just the first of his trials, and he was taking too long already. It was not what he would expect from a god who was in his third Heavenly Calamity, so something might be distracting him. And that something was, probably, his young brother.

The Wind Master was working hard, yes, but harder than anytime Hua Cheng had seem him before. Like he was trying to prove or compensate something. His expression was nothing like the lively and scandalous god he knew, and even in their actual situation, Hua Cheng could see the dark circles around his eyes. So, something happened with the Wind Master before this and Water Master was distracted because of it.

The Earth Master and General Ming Guang didn't seem any different from normal, but in Ming Yi's case Hua Cheng knew better than trust that face. Someone capable of being a double spy could certainly hide whatever he's feeling or thinking from everyone.

Suddenly, the storm calmed down and Pei Ming sighed, leaning into the side of one of the cabins. Even Hua Cheng let his body relax, taking a few deep breaths.

"Are you not finished yet?" Everyone turned to the Water Master, who went directly to his little brother. "I can't concentrate while you are here, haven't I ordered you to stay in Heavens?"

"There was no one else available to help here, ge." The Wind Master soon hugged his brother, worried. "Ling Wen said that we just have to find the last boat and then I'll be back to Heavens."

"Go to my palace when you get there. And don't come out."

"I won't, I won't." Hua Cheng turned around, looking at the sea again, trying to focus on just finishing this job.

His luck wasn't the best one, today. A lightning striked the sea and he noticed where the last boat were.

Drowning.

Pei Ming noticed it too, jumping from where he was leaning.

"They are sinking! We need to get there now! Water Master-xiong, stay on the boat and rest!"

Before he finished talking, Hua Cheng and Earth Master were already in their spiritual devices, crossing the distance in high speed. The Wind Master accompanied Ming Yi, moving his fan to raise up the boat.

"It's not working!"

"What do you mean it's not working? Try harder!" Demanded Ming Yi, worriedly.

"I'm trying! But it's like they are being pulled down!"

"Oh, fuck!" Screamed Pei Ming. "They entered the demon's lair! We need to take them out! And don't touch the water!"

Hua Cheng didn't had the time to warn the others that the water was the last of their problems, because as soon as he noticed a white being beneath them, the thing jumped from the sea.

It was a skeleton fish. But not a small, amicable fish like the ones in Ghost Flower's pound. No, this one was massive and was clearly displeased by their presence.

The owner of the skeletons fishes, Ghost Flower's best friend, the one they called He Xuan... Was Black Water Sinking Ships.

"Take the humans and return to the boat!" Instructed Hua Cheng, getting close to the fish. "I'll distract the beast!"

Or that was the plan, but a second giant skeleton fish appeared, being followed by more two of them. They jumped erratically, making huge waves and making it difficult to approach the fishermen. In a moment, they were surrounded by the beasts and could barely maintain their own balance.

A figure appeared in the middle of the situation trying to control the giant fishes, but failing every time.

"Ge! What are you doing?"

"What are you doing?!" Shouted back the Water Master. "This is Black Water Territory it's too dangerous to stay here!"

"But the fishermen..."

"You saved enough of them, let's go now!"

A deep, stern voice sounded right behind Hua Cheng.

"Such a disappointment. But I guess I'm not surprised." Hua Cheng turned around and red was all he could see for a moment. Then, he felt the weight in E-Ming increase and arms embrace his waist. "Hello, my dear San Lang."

Everyone stopped, looking at him. Of course they were expecting a Calamity, but not this one!

"Gege." Hua Cheng's hands held the Calamity's shoulders. "Are you able to control this fishes too?"

"Not exactly, but they like me, yes. Aren't they the cutest little things?"

"What are you calling cute?!" Screamed General Ming Guang. "They are trying to kill us, here!"

"Kill you? They are only trying to help." The Ghost King pointed to the boat that was sinking before. With the waves, they drifted away from the dangerous waters and seemed to be floating alright. "See?"

As soon as he said that, a beast jumped from the sea, his tail swinging and hitting Ming Yi and Shi QingXuan. While they were falling, the Water Master was the next victim. Once beneath the water, none of them returned to the surface.

Pei Ming stared at Ghost Flower, who just made himself comfortable against Hua Cheng body.

"They are still helping, you'll end up drowning anyway." Pei Ming opened his mouth to argument, but he felt water reach his feet. Hua Cheng looked down and noticed that, yes, they were losing altitude to the point to be barely away from the sea. "They say that everything sinks in here, but the truth is that nothing stays above the water. Doesn't matter if it's a boat or a god flying in his sword."

When he finished his explanation, Pei Ming was already drowning too.

"Gege..."

"Do you trust me, San Lang?"

The sudden question made Hua Cheng lose his words. That wasn't something he thought about before, not in that way. He obviously knew about Ghost Flower's interest and the way he seemed to be a little possessive about him. He was using it to have more information of His Highness, but did he trust any of the Ghost Flower's words and actions?

Was Hua Cheng capable of sincerely trust anyone but His Highness?

The silence seemed to be answer enough to the Calamity, who distanced himself from Hua Cheng's body. The god felt his heart drop, coldness replacing the touch of Ghost Flower's arms. But he didn't had the time to answer or to justify himself. He would probably choke on the words anyway.

Because Ghost Flower was climbing him.

"I thought you wouldn't be affected by He Xuan's powers, you are a ghost and we can easily float here." Said Ghost Flower, using Hua Cheng's shoulders as leverage until he could embrace the god's waist with his legs. "But I guess your divinity aura suppress your ghostly nature."

Once the Ghost King crossed his ankles at his back, Hua Cheng's face was pressed against the smooth and warm skin of Ghost Flower's neck. All he could see, feel and smell was the smaller man.

"You can hold me too, San Lang. It will be safer that way." Hua Cheng looked up and noticed how Ghost Flower's left hand were firmly holding on one of the skeleton fishes. While Hua Cheng hugged him, he extended his free hand and E-Ming flight to him, trembling excitedly in the ghost's hold before returning to his scabbard.

And Hua Cheng should really be worried about a Calamity being able to control his stupid scimitar, but he didn't had the time to worry about that when he himself was dumbstruck by their position. And when the fish started swimming, keeping them both in the surface, another thing became more urgent to care about.

Hua Cheng was a faithful, devoted man. Some might call him obsessed and he wouldn't deny it. All his actions, thoughts, feelings and emotions were for the one he loved so deeply. All his body and mind were always focused on His Highness. If he was strong, intelligent, powerful... It was all for his God. He would only offered the best to His Highness, never less than that.

And Hua Cheng knew he was a sinner. He failed his God so many times he wouldn't be able to count them. He sinned and then prayed for forgiveness, even knowing he wasn't worth the trouble. Why would someone like his God waste his time to forgive him? There was no reason, but Hua Cheng knew his God would do it. His Highness was loving and gentle, someone who embraced the ugliest parts of the common people and smiled to them, merciful and noble.

Hua Cheng was a sinner, but he had never committed one sin: treason. He despised traitors and took incredible pride in not being one of those piece of garbage who betrayed others for their own pleasure. Or, well, he had never committed that sin until now. Because, by the way he started to felt feverish, he was sure his body was reacting in a very shameful way to the Calamity beneath him.

All of himself belonged to His Highness, even this ugly, sinful, disrespectful side of his desires. And Hua Cheng could always blame the position or friction between their bodies for making him react, but he knows it would be a lie. He was feeling those things, yes, but there was more... Intimate things arousing him.

Like the way the Ghost King kept his body warm for him. His delicate, but earthy smell. The soft touch of fingers on his hair and neck. The reassuring words murmured from time to time. The way his own arms felt so comfortable around that body. And his skin.

Pale, smooth and perfumed skin. Hua Cheng tried to control himself, but he ended up with his nose deep into the Calamity's neck, his whole face hiding between skin and hair.

Maybe Ghost Flower would feel upset and ask him to move away, but he only sighed softly, caressing Hua Cheng's ear with his fingertips. The god trembled slightly, hugging the other's body without shame.

If Ghost Flower asked him about his trust now, Hua Cheng would say yes. In fact, Hua Cheng knew this was a dangerous situation, because he would probably say yes to anything the ghost could ask of him.

If he asked, Hua Cheng would disrobe him with greedy hands. Touch him with lustful fingers. Kiss him with hungry lips.

He was probably just going insane, because he wanted to be asked those things. He craved them to the point he could feel himself painfully hard. He just wanted Ghost Flower to ask him, and he would gladly fu...

"San Lang, we arrived."

Hua Cheng suddenly opened his eyes, his body turning so cold he shivered.

What was that?! What was he doing?! Getting lost on sweet desires like a horny teenager for a Ghost King! Giving his back to his God, losing his mind over something dirty and disgraceful!

He needed to get away, right now.

Too ashamed to even look at Ghost Flower's figure, Hua Cheng just got up, noticing they had arrived to a island. Calming himself, he walked to the beach.

"San Lang?" Called the Calamity and Hua Cheng turned around to talk with him.

Bad choice. How would his mind forget this moment if Ghost Flower looked so beautifully disheveled? Completely drenched, his robes falling from his shoulders, his hair sticking to his mask and exposed skin, water droplets sliding down... And down...

A detail made Hua Cheng distract himself from that thought.

A scar. Right in the middle of Ghost Flower's chest, probably made from a stab. A deep, but clean one. The skin around it had darkened like it was dark ink spilling from the cut.

Noticing his stare, Ghost Flower started to fix his own robes, self-conscious of his body.

"Let's go, San Lang." Called the Calamity, walking to the forest beyond the beach. "It's not a good idea to stay in He Xuan's lair now. Let's go somewhere else."

"Gege, I..."

"Hey! Hua Cheng-xiong! Ghost Flower! Here!" Shi QingXuan's voice reached them and Ghost Flower sighed.

"They can come too, I guess."

Chapter Text

"Gege." Called Hua Cheng, after a few silent moments. Being left with his own devices was a terrible idea right now, and he would not try to make conversation with any of the other gods.

"San Lang." Walking in front of all them, Ghost Flower's posture was rigid, bothering Hua Cheng. It was like the Ghost King had two personalities and the one who called him dear was not here. That wasn't true, Hua Cheng knew it. He, too, wore a polite mask around others, letting himself be relaxed only before his god... And a Calamity.

"Have you been here before?"

"Not that much. Black Water Sinking Ships it's not that approachable, your colleagues probably realized that by now."

Turning his head to look behind them, Pei Ming nodded.

"We can't use any kind of array here. It's blocked."

"Black Water is the master of this place." Explained Ghost Flower. "And he doesn't like having guests, so I refrained myself of visiting him."

"But he visits you." Concluded Hua Cheng, because Ghost Flower wouldn't be that close to the other Calamity if they didn't had any contact.

"Don't touch anything, Shi QingXuan." Warned Ghost Flower, and the god retracted his hand, his older brother staring annoyed at him.

"I'm sorry, ge. I've never seen this kind of plants before."

Ghost Flower hummed.

"That's because they are only able to grow here, nursed by Black Water's power."

"They are pretty."

"QingXuan." Interjected Shi Wudu.

"I'm not lying, gege. They are pretty."

"He would be pleased to hear you say that." Commented the Calamity, looking back at the group of gods, before returning his look to the forest ahead.

"You talk as if you are allies." Accused Pei Ming.

"Black Water is not my ally." Ghost Flower answered, but Hua Cheng knew that was just a way to say that the Calamity was more than just his ally.

"Then why those giant fishes like you?"

"Pei Ming, for someone with your fame, I thought you would be more experienced in social contacts." Ghost Flower crossed his hands at his back. "Interrogating someone you just met it's not appropriate."

"We have met before. We even crossed swords a few centuries ago."

"And that settled what kind of behavior you should have around me." He sighed. Ming Yi, who were silent until now, intervened.

"General Ming Guang it's just doing his job. You shouldn't..." Ghost Flower snarled, interrupting him.

"Don't provoke me, Ming Yi. You brought my San Lang to this place and now you act like you had any right to tell me what I should or not do."

"I wasn't me who..."

"Don't care."

Silence fell between them again, Shi QingXuan touching Ming Yi's arm to comfort him. Hua Cheng only looked at the gods, before returning his attention to Ghost Flower.

"Gege, I tried to visit you earlier but they told me you were out to business."

"I was. Have the Waning Moon Officer treat you politely?"

"He was helpful, gege."

"I see."

And then, silence again. Hua Cheng didn't know what else to say and the Ghost King didn't seem to be in the mood for talking now. Maybe it was because they weren't alone or he was genuinely annoyed with the fact Hua Cheng was in another Calamity's territory.

Maybe he was weaker than Black Water here? Little was known about the other Ghost King, Hua Cheng was the one of the most informed and he only really knew three things until now.

One, Black Water Sinking Ship's real name was He Xuan.

Two, he was Ghost Flower's best friend, being important enough to be called a brother sometimes.

Three, he was capable of make and control Skeleton Fishes, small or big, and they all liked Ghost Flower.

So, if he analyzed the situation, it didn't make sense for Ghost Flower be so mad about his presence in his best friend's territory. Even those giants beasts didn't dare to do Ghost Flower any harm. Both of them were safe, and the Calamity didn't seemed too invested on the other's safety.

Maybe the problem wasn't about being here, specifically. It was being in another's territory. It would explain why Ghost Flower didn't like Hua Cheng returning to the Heavens. It was Jun Wu's territory, in which he was practically invincible. In which Hua Cheng was forced to follow his rules, liking it or not.

Was Ghost Flower possessive to that point?

When they exited the forest and saw themselves near a lagoon, his thoughts were cut off by a scream.

"WHAT DID YOU DO?!"

When Hua Cheng turned to the Water Master, who started to walk in his direction, eyes locked in Ghost Flower's back. Pei Ming took the god by the arm, asking him to calm down in controlled voice while holding him there.

"IF YOU TOUCH A SINGLE HAIR OF HIS, I SWEAR I'LL DANM YOUR SOUL, GHOST FLOWER!" Shi Wudu shouting denounced a fact: Shi QingXuan and Ming Yi disappeared.

"You are too late for that." Answered the Calamity, without looking at them. Pei Ming kept trying to calm the god.

"Water Master, don't be reckless. We don't know what happened, maybe Ghost Flower doesn't have anything to do with it."

"Bullshit! He was the one who dragged us here and now QingXuan is gone!"

"I dragged my San Lang here. You tagging along was your own decision." Ghost Flower turned to them.

"You are working with that Calamity, aren't you? Tell where did he took my brother or I..."

"What?" Provoked the Ghost King, his voice suddenly cold, talking in the same way he did with Xuan Ji before. "Or you what, Shi Wudu? Come on. Tell me. What will you do to me if I don't answer?"

"I'll make you regret having born."

"Liar." Ghost Flower turned to look at the lagoon again. "You are not powerful enough for that."

"You... My brother didn't do anything wrong!"

"But you did." The affirmation seemed to affect the Waster Master in a way Hua Cheng had never seen before. The always so composed god shoved Pei Ming aside, taking his fan and preparing to attack the Calamity.

Before Ghost Flower could even notice the situation, E-Ming blocked the fan's movement, Hua Cheng staring at Shi Wudu with severity while the scimitar forced the other's arm down.

The Water Master looked at him with pure hate.

"You traitor..."

"Don't act like a child. If Ghost Flower is the one who kidnapped your brother, offending him now would only worsen the situation." E-Ming returned to his scabbard and Hua Cheng positioned himself between the Ghost King and the Water Master. "Don't embarrass Heavens with that poor behavior."

Both gods stared at each other in silence, Shi Wudu forced to bottle up his rage.

"Gege." Called Hua Cheng, going to his side once he was convinced that Water Master wouldn't try to attack again. "About this..."

"You don't need to worry, San Lang. Shi QingXuan will not be hurt by Black Water. Like Shi Wudu said, he is innocent, so Black Water would not dare to touch him."

"So, it was Black Water..." Commented Pei Ming, approaching the lake slowly, curious about what was the Calamity so interested in there.

"Of course it was. Who else would be able to use arrays in his territory?" Ghost Flower sighed. "And he just collected Shi Wudu too."

The two remaining gods looked back and, in fact, the Water Master wasn't there anymore.

"What the hell?!"

Hua Cheng felt lost for just a second, until he noticed something.

Ghost Flower mentioned that the Shi brothers were kidnapped, but he didn't mentioned Ming Yi. The Earth Master worked closely to Ghost Flower, being someone he was willing to protect if needed. So if he wasn't worried, it could only mean Ming Yi was involved with Black Water too.

"Tell me, Pei Ming. Why was Shi Wudu so weak?"

"He's not..."

"I know he's not weak, I'm asking you why he was weak just now." Ghost Flower seemed impatient and Hua Cheng wanted to touch his back and reassure him of... Something he didn't even know. So he just decided to help in another way.

"Water Master was beneath the expectations on his trial too." He said. "He looked like he was worried."

"Oh, that. I don't know if you are aware, but Shi QingXuan was cursed by a Reverend of Empty Words when he was human. They thought the curse was overcame when he ascended, but it appeared again after the Banquet this year." Pei Ming moved his head, a bit worried himself. "They were still trying to solve that when the Heavenly Calamity hit."

"I see. Well, I think it's time for you to go back to Heavens now, Pei Ming. Thank you for the gossip." The god didn't had the time to be confused: Ghost Flower simply shoved him into the lake.

A faint light illuminated the water for a second and Hua Cheng understood immediately what happened.

"Gege, I thought that only Black Water could make arrays here."

"And that's true. I was waiting for him to activate this one for me and he has just finished it." Hua Cheng raised an eyebrow to that.

"I thought Ming Yi was a specialist with arrays, but if Black Water can manipulate it from distance and even make one to Heavens, he is probably..."

And then it clicked.

The reason why Ghost Flower snapped at Ming Yi earlier. Why the Earth Master such a mysterious, reserved person, befriended someone popular like Shi QingXuan. Why Ghost Flower wasn't worried at all about his friend. Why Ming Yi not only accepted being a spy, but also never let anything truly valuable about the Calamity reach Heavens. Why a Ghost King was able to make an array to a place only accessible to the ones blessed with ascension.

He was wrong, before. Ming Yi didn't work with Black Water Sinking Ships.

Ming Yi was Black Water Sinking Ships.

His expression probably showed his exact thoughts, because Ghost Flower only chuckled.

"My dear San Lang is always so clever." Ghost Flower took him by hand, pulling him into the lake. Suddenly, the whole world shifted and he saw himself at the same lake, but in another place?

No, it still felt like Black Water's territory. But, now, a black and tall building appeared in the forest.

"Gege, is that..."

"He Xuan's house, yes." Without letting go of his hand, Ghost Flower started to walk in that direction.

The Nether Water Manor looked like a Palace, Hua Cheng had heard some rumors about it but none of them were accurate. It was much more luxurious than most palaces in Heavens, but it's dark colors gave it an unapproachable aura. Ghost Flower didn't knock, entering the entrance hall without any ceremony.

"I thought gege didn't visit his friend much."

"I'm not visiting. The only array that can send us back home is in here, so he'll have to excuse me."

"What about Water and Wind Masters?"

"He Xuan has business with them. It doesn't concern us." Hua Cheng couldn't accept that answer, so he stopped, making Ghost Flower turn to him. "San Lang, my dear. This isn't... This isn't something we can interfere with. Even if we want to."

"I don't want to interfere. I want to know what's happening, so that old man won't lecture me again."

Hua Cheng knew this was a low blow. Ghost Flower have been very clear about how he hated Jun Wu and how he didn't want Hua Cheng near that man. But he needed to know, and he wasn't exactly lying about the Emperor.

A scream interrupted them and Ghost Flower sighed. Without saying anything, he just started to walk, being followed by Hua Cheng. They could hear voices nearby, but the words weren't that audible. Hua Cheng felt something near his shoulder: a small skeleton fish. It opened it's mouth and the voices became much clearer now.

"QingXuan, what are you saying? You... You were my reason, I..."

"Ge, this was too much. You damned Xuan-xiong's fate so I could ascend. And what for?"

"What do you mean? Isn't it obvious, QingXuan?"

"I was already happy, ge. Being near you made me feel safe and I didn't need to worry about being cursed anymore. What else would I need?" Shi QingXuan's voice wasn't cruel. In fact, it sounded like he was hurt and was trying to make his brother understand his point.

Hua Cheng looked at Ghost Flower, as if asking for explanation, but it wasn't needed.

"You would have died as a human, QingXuan! Ascending was the only real way to protect you!"

"And what made you think that it was right to stole away someone's fate because of that?" The sound of metal took Hua Cheng by surprise. Was the Wind Master chained? "How many people have died because of your decision, ge?"

"My mother." A third voice suddenly appeared, deep and cold like the South Sea. "My father. My little sister. My lover."

"Have you thought I will be happy knowing this, ge? Do you think I'm happy now that I know this?"

"You lived happily until now! Are you going to tell you preferred to die than..."

"I DO!" Screamed Wind Master, his voice denouncing that he was crying. "BECAUSE I WAS HAPPY TO BE SAFE THEN, AND NOW I CAN ONLY HATE MY LIFE!"

"QingXuan, what nonsense..."

"His family suffered, ge! They died! They died because you couldn't let me live as a human. Why did you ruined that? How... How can I be happy now?"

"Have you finished talking? This drama is starting to disgust me." A loud 'bang' sounded and Shi QingXuan started to cry.

"Xuan-xiong, stop, please! I'm sorry! Please, I'm so sorry, I'm..."

"What good would your sorry do? Will you bring them back for me?" He Xuan provoked. "Will you take this sword and take revenge for their souls? Will you cut your own brother's head if I order you to?"

Silence followed his provocations.

"Of course you won't. You will always choose him, even after knowing what he did. Even knowing how much he deserves to be hated, you can't hate him. You are so weak, you can't even hate me."

"I..."

Ghost Flower stopped before a door with an enchantment draw in the wood, opening it. Hua Cheng stared at the golden mask for a second.

"I want to die." Muttered Shi QingXuan.

"Dream on." Answered He Xuan and it was the last thing Hua Cheng heard before stepping into the array.

Chapter Text

At this point, Hua Cheng was already used to the chaos in the Upper Court. Everyone was discussing, again, the possibility of fighting a Ghost King. Again, all of them were stupid enough to think they could win against someone who had infiltrated Heavens for centuries.

Everyone ignored this Calamity, taking his lack of action for granted, worrying only about Ghost Flower. But Black Water Sinking Ships was even more terrifying. Because he wasn't straightforward like his counterpart.

When Ghost Flower targeted someone, they would know immediately. They are even warned about it.

Black Water, however, made a complex scheme, waited for centuries, studied all his possibilities... And his targets would only know of him when it was too late.

And all those pieces of trash couldn't understand yet how perfect was He Xuan's plan. But they would, Hua Cheng knew it from the moment the Emperor appeared in the Great Martial Hall, Mu Qing following him before getting to his usual place next to Feng Xin, who stared at him dumbfounded.

"Calm down, everyone. We don't know exactly what happened yet." Ordered the Emperor, and Hua Cheng felt like this was a waste of time. This meeting would have the same ending and the previous one, right?

Ah, he couldn't let that happen. Ghost Flower would be furious if Jun Wu touch him again. So he better help to solve things this time.

"There's nothing to do. Shi Wudu's sins lead him to this predicament. Black Water was his victim and he had all the right to avenge himself." Everyone looked at him, with a variety of expressions that went from surprised to understanding.

"He didn't touch me or Hua Cheng." Said Pei Ming, with a strange expression. It was obvious to anyone that he didn't like this, but he had to be rational while discussing it. "He even helped saving the fishermen caught up in the Heavenly Calamity. No one but his targets suffered."

"He infiltrated Heavens!"

"And that is a Heaven's problem." Answered Mu Qing, shaking his head. "We thought Ghost Flower being able to come here was an issue, but it only demonstrated how poor our security was until that moment. Black Water being able to infiltrate even before that? Not that shocking."

"What happened to the real Earth Master then?"

"Was there a Earth Master to begin with?" Questioned Qi Ying, surprising everyone that he was actually attending the meeting. "He was always the same person. It's impossible he took Earth Master place after ascending. He did it before that or our Emperor would have noticed."

The gods nodded to it, starting to hunt more reasons to condemn He Xuan, but Hua Cheng's mind fixated on one detail.

Because Qi Ying was right. If the Earth Master was replaced after his ascension, the Emperor would notice it right away. But that didn't mean it didn't happen. That only meant that Jun Wu would have known about Black Water since the beginning.

Hua Cheng maintained his face in an uninterested expression, but his mind was connecting dots, clearing thought paths, taking in seemingly insignificant details. By the end of it, he reached a conclusion that made him extremely aware of his own position there. Of everyone's position in that place.

Jun Wu knew.

"This is a waste of time." He complained. "It's clear that we can't input any crime to Black Water. His plan was flawless, he never did anything against Heavens or any other god. He even helped us multiple times. The Shi Brothers committed their sins and Black Water had the right to avenge himself. Or am I wrong, your Majesty?"

All eyes focused on Jun Wu, who smiled at Hua Cheng. He felt a strange sensation in his gut, but didn't avoid those eyes. In the end, the Emperor sighted.

"Hua Cheng is right. Black Water Demon, He Xuan, can not be accused of any kind of serious crime. Impersonation would only be a problem if he used it to gain information and harmed others with it. But he was always a great asset to Heavens, until he could conclude his revenge." The Emperor turned away, walking into his own Palace. "There's no discussion here. Water Master and Wind Master are not longer part of us; and Black Water Sinking Ships did not commit any crime. Xuan Zhen, we didn't finished our talk yet. Come."

Mu Qing followed, like a good puppy. And Feng Xin looked at Hua Cheng with such remorse it nearly made the god feel bad for them. Ignoring it, Hua Cheng returned to his own Palace.

A lot of things happened. And he still needed to confess his sins.

.

.

.

In his plain white robes, Xie Lian kneeled before his garden. Each little white flower there was precious to him, so he always took care of them personally. Doing it always helped him to calm down and keep control of his emotions.

And he really needed this peace of mind now. His chest never really stopped aching, but with the recent events he felt like he had failed again.

Xie Lian was used to fail. But he still suffered for every single one of those.

The little fishes of the pond made him company this afternoon, finally. He spent the last few days feeling so miserable that he rejected their companionship over and over again. Today, he was feeling less bitter and accepted them near him. They never approached the flowers, but bumped again his arms and face, playing with his hair and even biting him softly, like they were giving him delicate kisses to make him feel better.

Xie Lian didn't want to feel better. He never wanted to get better, but it was inevitable. Time always forced him to get up and keep going. It was infuriating.

A few steps behind him made him sigh.

"Yin Yu, I told you that I'm not in the mood for the city's business, could you please just leave me alone?"

"You shouldn't give Yin Yu such a difficult time, Lian-ge."

The Calamity turned around so quickly he startled the fishes.

"A-Xuan?" The man didn't have the time to answer. Xie Lian hugged him so tightly that He Xuan felt a few of his bones crack soundlessly. But how could he complain about Xie Lian's monstrous strength when he was sobbing like a child in his arms?

With care, He Xuan maneuvered them to sit down, caressing Xie Lian's hair, comforting him in silence. Again, he was feeling like he was the older one between the two.

"I thought... You said..."

"I couldn't do it." Confessed He Xuan, quietly. "I did everything as I planned, now those two are mortals again, probably trying to survive Shi QingXuan awful luck. But when I took my ashes to destroy them I... I couldn't do it, Lian-ge. I'll probably won't be capable of that until Shi QingXuan dies. But once he's gone..."

"Then I would understand you." Xie Lian said, looking at He Xuan with a soft smile. "Existence is not worth it without our loved ones. It's better to go with them, than suffer alone."

"Don't talk like that, Lian-ge. It doesn't suit you."

"It's been a long time since I last believed that it was better to keep living, A-Xuan. I have one reason to stay here and if I lose him, I'll not keep going anymore. I refuse to keep going without him." Xie Lian raised his hands, touching He Xuan's face. "I'm so sorry about..."

"No, you don't need to apologize. I understand." Black Water sighed. "It was the Emperor."

"I know you weren't the one who sent my San Lang there..."

"No, Lian-ge. I'm talking about the fishermen. It wasn't me who put them in the sea. They weren't real people, to be honest." Xie Lian's tears dried up immediately.

"What?"

"They were puppets. Clones. Good ones, in fact, so Shi QingXuan didn't noticed."

"But Pei Ming and my San Lang would have noticed it."

"They didn't touch them. Your Hua Cheng and Pei Ming were protecting the boat, so it was QingXuan and me who did the rescue." He Xuan took Xie Lian's hands, seeing how he came to the same conclusion as him. "He lured Hua Cheng there so you would appear too."

"We can't say that for sure. He's doing it because of me, yes, but it's impossible to know what exactly he's planning." He sighed, trembling a bit.

"I still think you should talk with Hua Cheng. He won't judge you..."

"I'm not scared of him. I have faith in my dear San Lang's devotion. I believe in him as much he believes in me. He still prays at me, you know? He thinks I cannot hear, but my sweet San Lang never stopped praying, so how could I distrust him?" Xie Lian looked at the flowers in his garden. "I'm scared of Jun Wu. That mad man is capable of everything and I still can't fight him."

"But Hua Cheng deserves to know. You need to tell him, before it's too late." He Xuan avoided Xie Lian eyes, focusing in the little fishes around them. But he didn't need to explain his thoughts.

"Oh, my little A-Xuan..."

"It's fine, Lian-ge. I already accepted my fate and this one is mine, even if I don't like it. It's mine and I value that more than anything. But yours..." He Xuan took his best friend's face in his hands, staring at him. "Yours shouldn't be like this. You suffered too much, for long enough. So I'll help you before I go, Lian-ge."

"A-Xuan."

"I've made my mind already. Don't worry, Lian-ge. You'll have him. I assure you that."

.

.

.

"Please, sir! You shouldn't do this! He'll get mad!"

"Someone stop that man!"

"This is outrageous! How can he?!"

Hua Cheng sighed, without getting up from before His Highness's altar. Everyone knew already about his bitter mood lately, why was everyone being so loud?

The answer was Mu Qing, who entered Hua Cheng's chambers unannounced and so suddenly that E-Ming itself attacked him immediately. Zhan Madao blocked the attack swiftly, his wielder already used to spar with Hua Cheng.

The doors closed and Hua Cheng felt a barrier enclose the place. He raised an eyebrow, calling E-Ming back.

"Oh?"

"Don't 'oh' me. What the fuck are you doing?" Mu Qing leaned against the door, showing his zero interest in going away. Hua Cheng bowed once more before the altar, getting on his feet afterwards.

"About what exactly are you talking about? Because I am very close to send you back to your palace in little pieces."

"Don't you dare be mad at me, you dumbshit. Why are you giving everyone such a difficult time? Changing your mood in times like this! There are rumors about your identity already, come on. You aren't this idiot." Complained the god, crossing his arms and ignoring Hua Cheng's threat.

"Rumors, you say? Why didn't I hear of them?"

"Because you are scaring everyone else."

"Aren't you scared of me?"

"In your dreams, moron." Mu Qing rolled his eyes. "Don't change the subject. What happened between you and Ghost Flower that let you this stressed?"

"Why..."

"Why else?" Hua Cheng shrugged and went to sit on his bed.

Unfortunately, Mu Qing was right. Since returning from Black Water's lair Hua Cheng haven't been able to calm himself. Not even when prostrated before his god. And of course it was Ghost Flower the reason. All of him.

His delicate voice. His tender fingertips. His soft, cold skin. His sweet, floral perfume.

Hua Cheng tried everything already, but Ghost Flower was a fixed thought inside his mind.

When Hua Cheng ate. When Hua Cheng bathed. When Hua Cheng drank. When Hua Cheng trained. When Hua Cheng slept. When Hua Cheng woke up... It didn't matter what he was doing, he hoped to be accompanied by Ghost Flower.

Even his most dirty, sinful desires changed their forms. Now, he dreamed of taking Ghost Flower on his own bed. On his desk. On his lake. On his training grounds. On every single surface around his palace... And outside it too.

Hua Cheng knelt down for hours before his God, but his sore knees didn't remind him of his penitence anymore. They only fueled his fantasies with the Calamity and he was just about to snap about it.

"You like him."

Mu Qing's voice cut through his thoughts and Hua Cheng looked at him, lost.

"Look at you, such a dumbass. You really like him." Mu Qing laughed, humored by his statement. "Is that why you've been so on edge? Are you afraid he doesn't feel the same? Don't be. He obviously is head over heels about you."

"Don't talk like you know something." Hua Cheng was, now, really mad, glaring at the other god. "You know where my heart is."

"On Ghost Flower's hands, yes. And don't look at me like that, you know it's the truth. You are not even offended by it, and I know exactly how you react when offended. I have done it uncountable times in the last 800 years." Mu Qing sighed, walking to Hua Cheng and sitting at his side, his voice suddenly calm. "What's troubling you?"

Hua Cheng knew that tone of voice. All those centuries spent near the Southern Gods made him aware of their personalities and intentions. He still disliked them and he knows he would never be able to fully forgive them. But he never found out anything bad about the two.

And Hua Cheng was good at finding this things. He made 33 gods fall because of it. But no matter how much he searched, he never found any misdeed from those two.

Hua Cheng sighted. Talking about the situation was the only thing he didn't try yet.

"I feel like I'm betraying His Highness."

"What?"

"I've lived all this time for him. All that I am is for His Highness. He's... He's my reason to live and now I'm having these... These unforgivable thoughts and..."

"Why would that be unforgivable?" Hua Cheng turned at Mu Qing. "His Highness is your God. Your devotion doesn't change because you fell in love."

"Betraying him..."

"Do you think Xie Lian would judge you for that?" Mu Qing rolled his eyes again. "You are projecting your own doubt on His Highness."

"I'm not! I love His Highness! Thinking about Ghost Flower it's..."

"It's nothing bad, Hua Cheng. Xie Lian would never find it disgusting or something like that. If anything, he would be happy that his most devoted believer is happy himself." The god got up, going to the door. "Put yourself together. You like Ghost Flower and His Highness would never think any less of you for that. In fact, he would probably feel guilty that you felt this bad because of something like this. And stop being so suspiciously moody, it's giving your palace trouble."

Mu Qing raised his hand to take down the barrier, but Hua Cheng's hand stopped him.

"You are saying that I should just give in?"

"It's not giving in, idiot. You are not going to abandon His Highness, you are going to be happy."

"Even if he isn't happy?"

"Specially if he's not happy. Don't make His Highness feel miserable, Hua Cheng. Go find Ghost Flower. Use those robes he gave you. Be a little happy, for yourself. You deserve it too."

Hua Cheng didn't let go of his wrist for a moment, but then his expression returned to his usual contempt.

"Whatever you are doing with the Emperor, be careful. He's not a saint."

"And I'm not dumb." Mu Qing took down the barrier, leaving Hua Cheng alone.

Maybe... Maybe Mu Qing was right. He was projecting his own insecurities on His Highness because he could never be able to imagine His Highness judging him. On the contrary, he could only imagine His Highness smiling, happy for Hua Cheng, once he discovered about his relationship. As long Hua Cheng's happiness was true, His Highness would support and defend him.

But once that issue was solved, it entirely depended on Hua Cheng to decide: should he deny his feelings until they faded or should he act on them?

And before he could decide, he needed to be sure about Ghost Flower too. Hua Cheng wasn't a man who's attraction was unstable, he was a devoted man. And his love wouldn't be any different. So before he decided anything on this matter, he would find out Ghost Flower's real intentions behind his interest on him.

And that's how he ended in Ghost City on his free night, wearing Ghost Flower's gifts and anxiety pooling at his stomach. But it didn't seem like the busy, noisy place Hua Cheng knew.

It was deserted. The few ghost still on the streets were running to find shelter, growling and tumbling. There was noises, but all of them were from inside the buildings.

Hua Cheng's confusion only lasted a few seconds, a pulse of energy making him gasp.

That... Was that Ghost Flower's power? Was he crying? That was the only explanation he could think of now and his chest hurt, remembering Yin Yu's words about this.

Where was he? Hua Cheng searched for QianDeng Temple, following the pulses of energy that threatened making him fall to the ground. Restlessness accumulated beneath his own skin and he sighed when he found the Temple.

Opening the door in silence, Hua Cheng entered the Temple finding the place completely trashed. The few candles that survived the violence poorly illuminated the hall, but it was enough to distinguish things there.

Hugging the feet of Hua Cheng's statue was Ghost Flower. His hands grasped at the stone with fervor, his face pressed against the smooth, cold surface.

The Calamity's body was shaking beneath the translucent inner robe, the outer one left forgotten aside in the ground near the golden mask.

Another pulse happened, followed by Ghost Flower low growls and moans while he hugged the statue firmly. Hua Cheng needed to take a deep breath.

"Gege?"

Chapter Text

Hua Cheng's voice echoed throughout the hall and Ghost Flower paralyzed. For a moment, the god expected to be thrown out of there, for intruding such a personal and delicate moment. But if Ghost Flower was crying, he needed to at least try to console him.

What he didn't expect was the way the smaller body crashed with his, sending him a few steps back, his body hitting the door behind him and sealing it shut.

Ghost Flower's embrace was firm, but careful in his strength, his face hiding in Hua Cheng's chest. A new energy's pulse forced Ghost Flower's knees to buckle, but Hua Cheng caught him.

This was strange. Yin Yu mentioned that Ghost Flower's cries were not normal, but he described them as loud, so loud all city could hear. And Ghost Flower stopped crying, he hated, so intensively everyone was afraid of going out. This didn't felt like none of it.

Only when he discarded that possibility, Hua Cheng noticed that the pulses coming from Ghost Flower weren't from his own energy. It was like he was absorbing it from somewhere else and, unable to contain it inside of him, he just released it. Because between pulses Hua Cheng was able to feel the energy building through his veins too.

What was happening here?

"Gege, there's something I can do to help?" He asked, one of his hands holding Ghost Flower's body against his. The other one caressed the dark, silky hair. The Calamity trembled, hugging him tightly.

"Don't go." Was the answer, his voice clear now that he wasn't wearing a mask.

Hua Cheng felt his blood freeze.

"Don't leave me alone... Not again... Please... Please stay... Don't leave me..." A pulse interrupted Ghost Flower's begging. When it ended, the ghost started to climb Hua Cheng's rigid body. "Stay away from them... From everyone... They don't... They don't deserve you... My dear San Lang... Mine... My precious..."

He knew what face will appear before him. Hua Cheng knew it before those dark, deep eyes focused on his own.

And he fucking hated it.

"How dare you?" He snarled, pure rage making him move. In a second, he had inverted their positions, now his own body pressing Ghost Flower against the door. A soft moan left beautiful lips and Hua Cheng hated how he found it alluring.

Because it was happening again. Someone was using His Highness' face to seduce him. And this time he was falling for it, unable to dissociate the truth from...

"Ah, so strong... Black suits you. Had always suited you so well. How couldn't I realized that back then?" Scorching hot, but soft hands touched Hua Cheng's face with utmost care. "This is how you looked at them while burning their palace down? So handsome, so fierce."

Ghost Flower was delirious, his eyes hazy, like he was lost between the reality and something inside his mind.

"What..."

"You were so good to me, so good. Why didn't you tell me that it was me? I would have dropped everything for you. If I had seen this face, I would have left everyone behind. Handsome, so handsome... And mine."

Hua Cheng opened his mouth to demand an explanation, but Ghost Flower's body tensed again, holding into him as if his life depended on it.

"Mine... So handsome, so strong and mine... My precious, precious Wuming."

Hua Cheng escaped from his hold so fast that both of them ended up in the floor, a few steps separating them. Ghost Flower's hands stretched out for him, searching his touch, but he distanced himself again.

"My dear?"

"How do know that name?!" Yelled Hua Cheng, trying to ignore Ghost Flower's body right now, focusing only in the matter at hand.

"I..."

"Had His Highness told you about it?! How does he know?! What do you know?! Answer, Ghost Flower, or I swear..."

"No!" The loud sob interrupted him and he felt his chest hurt, once again. "No... No, my dear San Lang, don't call me that... Don't call me Ghost Flower now... I can't..."

"Change that face!" Snapped the god. "Change it, Ghost Flower!"

"Am I that unsightly?" The ghost touched his own face, thoughtful. "I was beautiful before... Maybe I decayed more than I thought."

"It's not yours!"

"Of course it's mine, San Lang, don't be silly." The Calamity laughed, his mood swings only adding to the confusing situation.

"No, it... It can't be..."

"What are you talking about, San Lang? This is the same face I always had. You liked it so much before... Have I really decayed?" He took a silver plate that was near him and checked himself in the reflection. "No, I'm still the same..."

Hua Cheng couldn't believe it. He just... He just couldn't. But it was true, Hua Cheng was right in front of his God and he knew, deep in his bones, that this was true.

Blood Covering Ghost Flower, the feared Ghost King, a Calamity... Was once called His Royal Highness Crown Prince of XianLe, the Prince who Pleased the Gods, the Flower-Crowned Martial God.

Xie Lian.

Too lost on his own devices, Hua Cheng only noticed how he was being straddled again when a new pulse forced the other's body to fall on him. Ghost Flower's... Xie Lian's hands held onto his robes, hiding his face against his neck while panting.

Instinctively, Hua Cheng hugged him. His mind was still confused, he still couldn't believe it yet. But he wasn't an idiot to deny reality itself.

"Your Highness..."

"No!" Xie Lian pushed him down, making Hua Cheng lay down on the floor, looming above him. His hair created a thin curtain around their faces and suddenly Hua Cheng couldn't think of nothing that wasn't the man above him. "You always please me, San Lang, why aren't you doing it now? Please me, San Lang. Call me."

"G-Gege..." Hua Cheng couldn't say more, his lips occupied. A strong, hot flow of energy flooded the god's body, coming from all places his skin touched Xie Lian's. And that was a lot, considering the Calamity's actual outfit and that they were kissing.

They were kissing and Hua Cheng's logical reasoning had simply shut down.

He dreamed about kissing his god thousands, millions of times. He fantasized hundreds of times how he would act nowadays if his god needed him physically again, like in the night of the Land of Tender's attack...

Wait. Was this it? No, there wasn't any Land of Tender nearby, and it wouldn't be able to affect an entire city without having hundreds of them here. So, no Land of Tender, but the effects were, indeed, very similar.

Just as that night, Xie Lian's body was feverish, his eyes unfocused, his blood at boiling point. But now he didn't seem contrary to the idea of getting some relief from Hua Cheng. And Hua Cheng was stronger, now. Bigger. Capable of help.

"Gege... How can I..." Hua Cheng tried to offer his help, but it wasn't necessary to offer or ask.

Xie Lian tasted his neck with kisses, panting while his hands pulled the black robes out of the way, carelessly. He was taking whatever he wanted from Hua Cheng and that statement made him tremble.

Wasn't that his reason to exist?

His own skin started to warm up thanks to the energy flowing into him, his arms pliant under Xie Lian guidance. As soon as his upper body was naked, his arms were tied up above his head before he could noticed. And this time he couldn't be judged for it: who would care about something like that when His Highness Xie Lian was kissing and biting every single inch of his exposed skin?

And between touches, he murmured:

"My San Lang is so beautiful..."

"I waited so much to touch you..."

"Ah, I want to mark your pretty skin..."

"My dearest, make that sound again..."

"Have you fantasized about this too, San Lang?"

"So strong, my precious San Lang..."

Hua Cheng was left squirming under sweet praising and hard kisses. All the situation was overwhelming, so much happening all at once. He was unable to move, his arms tied, his body being pressed down by Xie Lian and his mind locked up into a repeating cycle of Gege and Your Highness.

"This is dangerous, San Lang." Xie Lian complained, his lips caressing the line of his hips, going down until he reached his pants. "I want you too much..."

"It's all yours, gege." Hua Cheng's breathless voice seemed to please the ghost.

"Don't say that, San Lang. I might eat you out. Oh, I'll..." Xie Lian didn't complete the sentence or did he? Hua Cheng didn't know, he didn't even know how his form was still stable.

Because Xie Lian soft lips around his hardened cock surely would be the death of him.

Where did his pants go? He was wearing them before, but now the only thing that covered him was Xie Lian's mouth and Hua Cheng's whole body shook, the ruthless rhythm making him moan.

For a brief moment, Hua Cheng thought about how this was wrong. His body should be used to give pleasure to His Highness, not to receive it from him. But, at the next moment, he concluded that this wasn't it.

He was not exactly receiving such pleasure just by the sake of it. Xie Lian was claiming him. It was obvious in the way his fingers and mouth bruised his skin, in how he was unable to rebel against his wishes. His body was owned by the man above him and everyone that looked at him should know that.

This wasn't the sweet, kind and pure love of his God.

This was the rough, possessive and lustful love of his Ghost King.

And Hua Cheng was a greedy man, because he wanted both.

"Shhh, no, not yet, San Lang." Xie Lian's mouth left him and Hua Cheng growled, frustrated. "Don't be mad. I just don't want it like this."

The god was so out of his mind that he couldn't understand well what that meant, but it was alright. Xie Lian should do whatever fancied him, Hua Cheng was sure he would like it anyway.

He just didn't expect to be straddled again, his erection pressed under Xie Lian's perfect and naked body. Even the darkened scar on his chest looked beautiful under the soft light. Hua Cheng's mouth opened and closed, gasping without being able to say anything about this.

Hypnotized, Hua Cheng observed as His Highness guided him inside, descending slowly, until he was fully seated on his hips, a beautiful and satisfied sigh leaving those reddish lips.

"Hua Cheng." His name being called in that deep voice made him tremble. "Pray to me."

Xie Lian didn't need to order for it, because as soon as he started moving all that could left Hua Cheng's lips was prayers.

.

.

.

"Fuck that old bastard." Was the first thing Hua Cheng heard when consciousness returned to him, and it wasn't pleasant at all. What was happening?

Sitting up, he looked around. He couldn't remember getting out of the temple, but now he was in a big, comfortable bed. By the view from the window, he was in Ghost Flower's house, the flowers at full bloom outside. He was alone in that bed, the voices coming from other room.

"I already told them to go, but they are very insistent..." That was Yin Yu's voice. "The Mount Tong'Lu opening is always a stressful event for them, I guess they don't want to pass it without My Lord."

"Useless trash, that's what they are. My San Lang is not going."

"Your Highness..."

"You know what? I'm going to kick them out myself."

"Gege?" Hua Cheng exited the room, adjusting his inner robe. Xie Lian immediately came to him, hugging him by the waist.

"San Lang, did you sleep well?"

"Of course, Gege took good care of me." Xie Lian's smile was breathtaking. "What's wrong?"

"That fucker sent a few gods after you. They are making a scene in the Gambler Den."

"Your Highness, please. Whatever you decide to do, do it soon. The citizens are bothered by them." Yin Yu seemed to be the one really bothered by the situation and Xie Lian sighed.

"I'll get dressed and then I'll take care of it." Relieved by the answer, Yin Yu bowed and leave. "I was hoping to keep San Lang company in the bed today."

"Don't worry about it, gege. Come. I'll go with you."

"San Lang should be resting..." Even complaining, Xie Lian let himself be guided to the bedroom. They both dressed up as fast as they could and Xie Lian laughed at the end. "San Lang, your hair!"

"It's alright, gege. I want it to look like this." His locks were flowing down in a unruly way, making him look even prettier at Xie Lian's eyes.

"It looks like you've been doing indecent things."

"Haven't I?"

"San Lang, don't provoke me. Or I'll drag you to bed again." Hua Cheng smiled at the threat for a second, but his expression turned bitter when he saw the golden mask on Xie Lian's hand.

"Gege... We..."

"We need to talk. I know. Heavens will send you down to the mortal realm to help contain the ghosts going to Mount Tong'Lu. I'll go and find you there. Just..." Xie Lian looked as hurt as he felt.

Hua Cheng took his hands, kissing each of them in a silent promise.

"I won't tell anyone, gege. You can believe in me. But I'll miss you so much." Hua Cheng pouted, trying to light up the mood. "Wouldn't gege give me his private array password? So I could at least speak with gege when I feel lonely."

"You don't need all this drama to get my password, San Lang. And it's a very simple password, really. Just recite the Ethics Sutra a thousand times."

Hua Cheng laugh was so genuine that Xie Lian couldn't help but laugh too. Putting in his mask, he took Hua Cheng's hand, squeezing it softly.

A petal's rain involved them, taking the couple to Ghost Flower's private room in the Gambler Den.

Chapter Text

The private room in the Gambler Den was a lot more like Paradise Manor than Ghost Flower's home. The throne itself was identical to the one in the Manor, and BanYue was already there, waiting for them.

"Baba." She was nervous, but came to hug Xie Lian. "He sent Pei Su, Qi Ying and Lang QianQiu."

"He's getting bolder." He caressed the girl's hair.

"Maybe he's afraid gege decides to go to Mount Tong'Lu again." Hua Cheng crossed his arms, looking at the situation below through the curtains.

"On the contrary, he wants me there." Xie Lian controlled voice made Hua Cheng raise an eyebrow. "I'm so sorry, San Lang, but I can't explain it now. Just promise me that you'll not stay alone with Jun Wu. Please."

"I do, gege. Don't need to worry, I already told you..."

"Don't trust that. Don't trust him. He never does or says anything without planning it out. Lay low, for now."

Even if he couldn't understand exactly what worried His Highness so much, the only possible answer was: "Yes, gege."

Xie Lian nodded and BanYue raised the curtain, giving them space. All the ghost present immediately turned to them.

"It's Your Highness!"

"Your Highness, you look stunning today as well!"

"Your Highness is so good to us!"

"Your Highness, look, we got this trashes for you!"

"Your Highness!"

"What His Highness?" Complained Lang QianQiu, pushing one insistent ghost away from his body. "Guoshi! You won't escape this time! Come here and fight me!"

"Lord Tai Hua, we are in his city. You should be more respectful." Said Pei Su, bowing at Xie Lian. "Your Highness."

Qi Ying just looked at them, uninterested. Ghost Flower didn't move, so Hua Cheng stayed at his side, a bit too close than would be considerate appropriated.

"At least one of you have manners." Ghost Flower shook his head. "So, what made the almighty gods descend to my dirty city? Are you looking for fun? I'm sure the jiejies from the brothels would do an excellent job making your life less boring..."

"You...!" Lang QianQiu's face reddened comically.

"Oh, my. Don't tell me Your Highness Tai Hua haven't touched a woman yet? So pitiful... I'll ask the jiejies to be very careful with you, don't worry." Ghost Flower gasped. "Oh, I'm sorry. Maybe you prefer it to be a gege? We don't discriminate, here, there's no need to be ashamed."

"Gege, he probably doesn't even know what he likes."

"So clever, my San Lang! In that case, we can call one of each to..."

"We are not here for that!" Screamed Lang QianQiu, making the entire Den laugh at him. "We are here for Hua Cheng!"

"For my San Lang? Why?"

"Orders from the Emperor! Not even you can deny him, Guoshi, you know of..."

Suddenly, all ghosts were kneeling. The pressure of Ghost Flower's rage made the gods unsheathe their weapons by instinct, and Hua Cheng crosses his arms to resist the urge to kneel too.

"Watch your words, child. Your reactions amuse me, but be careful of what you say. You are in my city and I am a tyrannical King."

The pressure subdued and the ghost cheered, like they were complimented and rewarded. Hua Cheng liked them, they knew what a privilege it was to simply feel His Highness power.

"Gege, don't give them a hard time. I shall return, anyway." Shameless, Hua Cheng hugged Ghost Flower's waist with one arm, kissing the top oh his head. "I'll be back soon, gege."

"Do it sooner." Demanded Xie Lian and Hua Cheng laughed, nodding before going down the stairs. The ghosts opened the way for him.

"Let's go before you provoke him even more." He took Lang QianQiu for the arm and started to drag him outside.

"I... You... He..."

"It's better to obey, Lord Tan Hua." Pei Su looked back at Ghost Flower and BanYue, bowing his head respectfully. "Let's go, Lord Qi Ying."

From upstairs, Xie Lian observed them exiting the hall. Once he couldn't see them anymore, he looked at his subjects.

"My dear citizens, everyone here knows that the Mount Tong'Lu had opened last night. If someone is thinking of going, I advise you to not go. Because you'll find me there."

Cheering, yelling and screaming was the response he got before he turned away and entered his private room.

"Baba, are you sure?" Asked BanYue. "You and Lord Hua Cheng had finally got together, right?"

"I hate it, but QianQiu is right, my dear. I can't deny that bastard." Xie Lian sat at his throne, taking off his mask and BanYue smiled at his determined expression. "But he'll regret having called me."

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.

.

"Your Majesty, here, I'll help you." Mu Qing offered his arm to the Emperor, who smiled softly at him while accepting the offer. Slowly, he got up from his bed, Mu Qing helping him walk.

"I'm ashamed of myself, Xuan Zhen. Getting hurt in a time like this..."

"The situation it's only safe for the others gods because of your interference last night, your Majesty. Facing so many powerful ghosts to prevent them to scape their prisons... You should be proud and concentrate on your recovery after this meeting." Mu Qing guided the Emperor through the room. "I took the liberty to put an array here, so your Majesty won't need to walk too much to get to the Martial Hall."

"You are so thoughtful, Xuan Zhen."

"It's only my job, your Majesty.

"And you always excelled at it. I should had given you more attention, Xuan Zhen." Jun Wu's free hand touched the one Mu Qing was using to help him. "You are reliable and focused, more godlike than the majority here."

"Your Majesty is kind to this one."

"I hope you could be kind to this old man while taking care of him, too."

Mu Qing smiled at the Emperor, his face slightly red. "They are waiting for you, Your Majesty. Let's go."

Once they passed the threshold, they entered a full Martial Hall, with gods discussing about what happened before. Once they noticed the Emperor's situation, they got silent.

Mu Qing helped him sit at his throne and planned to go to Feng Xin's side, but Jun Wu fingers on his wrist made him stay at his side.

"As all of you have noticed, Mount Tong'Lu had opened again." Announced the Emperor, his voice not as strong as always. "Luckily, I was able to contain most of the powerful ghosts we had locked. But the work is far from over. We can't let a new Ghost King be born, we already have enough problems with two of them."

A wave of agreements passed the hall, and the Emperor sighed.

"Unfortunately, I was injured amidst this ordeal and even my Xuan Zhen's best efforts weren't enough for heal me completely. So, I would not be able to help you anymore. That's why I need to all of you focused on your own territories, controlling the situation regionally. The Mount will only let the stronger ones into the kiln, so we need to stop ghosts with that kind of potential."

"What about Ghost Flower and Black Water? They can get into the Kiln again, right?" Asked Feng Xin, arms crossed and serious expression.

"I don't think they have that intention, but I'll sent Hua Cheng to the Mount Tong'Lu to stop them if needed." All eyes turned to Hua Cheng, who stared at the Emperor. "I know this can sound unjust, but your relationship with Ghost Flower will be of help here. He won't attack you and Black Water should be wary of touching you too."

"I'm the strongest after you, Your Majesty. Even without Ghost Flower's favor, I'm the most fitted to guard the Kiln anyway."

Mu Qing controlled his expression, looking at Hua Cheng with attention.

"I'm happy to see you taking your position more seriously, Hua Cheng." The Emperor turned to the others. "You all have work to do. My Palace would be available to help you with whatever it takes to pass through this event smoothly. Xuan Zhen, if you could..."

"Of course, Your Majesty." Once again, Mu Qing helped Jun Wu to get up and walk.

A few moments after, Mu Qing bowed to the Emperor.

"If you excuse me, your Majesty, I'll start working on..."

"I don't." Mu Qing blinked twice, lost.

"Your Majesty?"

"Nan Yang is strong enough to take care of the situation of the South alone. You'll stay here and be responsible for my recovery."

"Your Majesty, this... This is an honor but General Nan Yang is barely welcomed in my territory and your recovery would go smoothly if you rest enough. I'm not needed..."

"It's not about need, Xuan Zhen. It's about want. I want you here." Mu Qing raised an eyebrow, controlling his real reaction.

"Your Majesty, that's not something appropriate to say."

"I know that very well, but I can't get myself to care. You see, it's been a long time since someone heard me talk the way you do. Your company makes me relax and that'll help me recover faster, am I wrong?"

Mu Qing smiled at him, bowing again.

"If that's what your Majesty desires, then I apologize beforehand for my long stay at your side."

The way back to his palace seemed to took forever. Mu Qing was so lost in his own thoughts that he didn't notice someone walking right behind him until he entered his office and the door slammed shut.

A silencing barrier enclosed the room and Mu Qing turned around with Zhan Madao ready to attack, but another sabre stopped him midway.

"What are you doing here, Hua Cheng?"

"Whatever you are doing with the Emperor, stop." The sabres were sheathed at the same time and Mu Qing rolled his eyes.

"I don't know what you are talking about."

"He's not someone to take lightly, Mu Qing. Stay away from the Emperor." Hua Cheng leaned against the door, serious. "Gege said to be careful around him. He's not trustworthy."

"Haven't I told you before? I'm not dumb, Hua Cheng, I know how to take care of myself."

"Do you? Did you even notice he was claiming you earlier?"

"He's injured. Injured men get easily attached to who is taking care of them. Specially the lonely ones like him."

"So send someone else."

"You talk like I could do that. I'm the best doctor around and he's the Emperor. Of course it would be me to take care of him." Mu Qing sat down, sighing. "And he ordered me to stay with him."

"Mu Qing..."

"Listen, you already have too much in your plate. Shouldn't you be worried about Ghost Flower now? You may be forced to fight against him, better prepare yourself for that." He shrugged, eyes focusing on a few scrolls on the desk. "Now, if you don't have anything else to say, you can..."

"Keep doing this and Feng Xin would not be the only one dead at the end."

Mu Qing stared at Hua Cheng's back while he exited the office, the barrier disappearing. That dumbshit...

.

.

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"Ge! Ge, please, help!"

Shi QingXuan tried to open the door, but with his arms occupied he couldn't do more than call for help. The door opened and Shi Wudu's expression went from worried to annoyed.

"QingXuan, what are you doing?"

"I found him passed out in the road, ge. I couldn't left him there alone."

In the younger's arms, a small child rested. In simple black robes, his face was red, sweat rolling down his temples.

"We are barely surviving ourselves, QingXuan."

"What did you want me to do? Left him to die there? That's not right, ge." Ignoring his brother complaint, Shi QingXuan entered the humble house, going to a room and putting the small boy in his bed. "I know we don't have much, but it's enough to help him."

"We are not gods anymore, QingXuan. We don't have the obligation to help humans anymore."

"But I want to do it." The brothers stared at each other for a few moments, until the oldest sighed.

"He's your responsibility then."

"Of course, ge! Thank you!" QingXuan turned to the kid, caressing his dark hair and feverish forehead. "Don't worry, little one. We'll take care of you. So be strong and recover fast, yes?"

Chapter Text

You may be forced to fight against him.

Mu Qing was, again, right in saying this. Of course, considering that he didn't know Ghost Flower's true identity. If he knew, he would know that Hua Cheng would choose death before going against His Highness' desires.

Hua Cheng was promised a talk as soon as he met His Highness again, but his mind couldn't get peace while making up scenarios and answers for his questions.

Not even a day of travel had passed when he reached out to His Highness communication array, stopping to rest under the night sky.

'Gege? Can you talk now?'

He was met with silence for a moment, but soon the answer came.

'San Lang! Where are you, my dear?'

Hua Cheng felt his chest warming up, a natural smile on his face. All that happened was so recent but he felt in peace listening to His Highness' voice.

'I'm going to Mount Tong'Lu, gege. That old man is worried that you or He Xuan decides to enter the Kiln.'

Xie Lian took his time to answer. 'I wish I could go find you right now, my dear, but I'm a bit unstable.'

'Unstable?'

'Mount Tong'Lu is irradiating a specific kind of energy, that affects and attracts ghosts to it. The stronger you are, the stronger it affects you."

'I don't feel it, gege..."

'San Lang's divinity probably protects him from the effects. But even without a map, you should know exactly where the Mount is.'

Hua Cheng closed his eye and smiled. 'Gege is right. I can sense where I need to go.' Relaxing, Hua Cheng lay down, his arms behind his head, looking up at the stars. 'Gege said he's unstable. Is it dangerous?'

'Not exactly, but it is a bit difficult to manage it without help.'

'Like last night?' Provoked Hua Cheng grinning.

'San Lang!' Xie Lian laughed, sounding embarrassed. Hua Cheng could only imagine how beautiful he was looking now. 'Yes, like... Like last night. But it's weaker now, so I should be better soon.'

'I see. Gege, can I...'

'Of course, San Lang. Ask'

The god closed his eye, taking a moment to prepare himself.

'Gege, are you really a ghost?'

Xie Lian didn't answer it right away. Hua Cheng knew they were still connected in the array, so he waited.

'This won't do.'

'Gege?'

'San Lang, I'm sorry. Give me a moment, please.'

The connection faded and Hua Cheng controlled himself to not call His Highness again, apologizing about the question. He was told to wait a bit, so he did, sighing.

But then, steps near him made Hua Cheng sit up. And what he saw was a red and golden sedan, carried by four skeleton ghosts, who yelled to the nothingness as if there were someone there.

"Get out of the way!"

"We'll trample you!"

"Shoo, shoo!"

The silly ghosts stopped near Hua Cheng, putting down the sedan before him and being suddenly silent.

"San Lang."

The sweet voice made Hua Cheng get up immediately, approaching the sedan while a delicate hand raised the red curtain for him. Inside was Xie Lian, his body tensed, but a soft smile on his lips. He was using his Ghost Flower's outfit, but the mask was nowhere to be seen.

"Gege."

"Come here, my dear. Those things can't be talked about in an array."

Hua Cheng nodded, sitting at his side. The sedan wasn't that big, but they felt comfortable being pressed against the other's side. The skeletons got up and started moving, taking them through the night.

"I thought gege was still unstable."

"I can control myself for a while, but probably I'll need to rest soon. So let's talk in meantime." Xie Lian looked at his hands, fidgeting a bit. "Yes, San Lang. I am a real ghost."

The answer made Hua Cheng bite his tongue. If His Highness was a ghost, it meant that he died at some point. Probably right after rejecting the Heavens, given Ghost Flower's history.

"Does that disappoint you? That I'm no longer alive?" Asked Xie Lian. Hua Cheng shook his head, smiling a bit.

"Of course not, gege. What matters it's you, and not the state of you."

"But you are upset."

"With myself, never with gege." Confessed Hua Cheng and Xie Lian took his hands.

"My dear San Lang shouldn't feel responsible about what happened to me. It was Bai Wuxiang, not you."

Hua Cheng raised his eyebrows, surprised by the mention of that Calamity.

"Gege?"

"That fucker is a real creep, San Lang always tried to protect me back then but I was too blind to realized it." Xie Lian started to play with the god's fingers, avoiding his stare. "He played so easily with me and because of that San Lang suffered so much. Now, I can only resent my own naivety for..."

Hua Cheng ignored most of his words for now, his hands taking Xie Lian's face between them, forcing him to meet his stare.

"Gege. What do mean 'is'? That man is dead. The Emperor killed him. Everyone knows..." His Highness expression made Hua Cheng's stomach turn. "He lied."

"You'll find out soon enough that Jun Wu is a liar. An intelligent one. He takes the truth and change it slightly on his favor."

"Saying he killed Bai Wuxiang when he haven't is not a slight change of the truth, gege."

"He did kill that clone, so it's not entirely a lie. But he didn't disperse." Xie Lian looked at Hua Cheng attentively, like he was expecting him to notice something.

He did notice it.

800 years of lose information started to mix up in Hua Cheng's head, clashing and connecting, leading to an answer that left him numb.

It was so obvious, really. If he really paid enough attention, he would have notice some striking similarities.

Their condescending way to talk about Xie Lian.

Their favoritism, even after so much time.

Their very specific way of referring to His Highness.

Hua Cheng wanted to throw up. Of course he recognized the strength and violence of Jun Wu's hands last time.

Because it was Bai Wuxiang's hands.

"Shhh, San Lang, here. Look at me." Only when Hua Cheng blinked at His Highness he noticed he was shaking. "It's okay. I'm fine."

"How could that be true?! He..."

"He is truly a menace, I know. He is very skilled in manipulating people, he uses their weaknesses on his favor, makes them think they are winning when there wasn't even a game going on to begin with. Among the Ghost Kings, he's certainly the worst." Xie Lian's fingers caressed his hands, in a soothing, calm way.

It didn't work.

"No, gege, I've... I've been working for him, all this time I... I trusted..."

"Hua Cheng, stop." The abrupt change in His Highness' voice was enough to make the god obey him. "It's not your fault. Everyone fell for his facade, even myself. If you say that you are at fault, so I am."

"Your Highness, that's not..."

"Exactly, it's not true. The victim is never at fault. And you never truly followed him, San Lang." Xie Lian brought Hua Cheng's hands to his mouth, kissing the fingers with care. "You always hated him, doing your work in such a clever way to avoid his rage even before I told you to do it. And thanks to you, I learned so much about his personality and actions. It wouldn't be possible for me to be so prepared without your sharp intuition."

The god took a deep breath, controlling the anxious feeling that swam in his blood.

"But I haven't told you anything about him, gege."

"Oh, you did. You've been doing it since you ascended."

"How... Oh. Oh, god. You heard." Embarrassed, Hua Cheng covered his face with his hands. "I can't believe it, gege heard me pray."

Xie Lian laughed, leaning against Hua Cheng's side, his head resting on his shoulder.

"It surprised me, too. I couldn't hear you before the Kiln, but after that I heard you clearly. I was so happy to hear you, it gave me strength in the bad days." Hua Cheng made a strangled sound and Xie Lian laughed again.

That's how Xie Lian knew about Wuming being him. He never filtered any of his feelings and thoughts for His Highness on his prayers.

But if it was true...

"Gege knows."

"About what exactly, my dear? Because I know a lot of things."

Hua Cheng made another sound, wanting to disappear.

"About... Me."

"I'm blessed for it." Confessed Xie Lian, closing his eyes. "Knowing you so deeply, so truthfully... I couldn't have been happier." His voice started slow down, the weight against Hua Cheng increasing.

"Gege, are you alright?"

"I'm so happy, my dear San Lang. So happy you are here... I need to rest now. Will you be here when I wake up?"

"I'll never leave you, Gege."

Xie Lian hummed, content, before letting himself fall asleep. Hua Cheng caressed his God's face, worried and feeling guilty.

Xie Lian was dead. But he was a god before, an immortal. Even banished, Xie Lian survived horrible, terrifying things and even those events did not kill him.

How was it possible? Did Bai Wuxiang... Jun Wu find a way? No, it couldn't be. He never wanted Xie Lian dead. He wanted something worse from His Highness, something he couldn't comprehend. Maybe His Highness knew it already... But he won't ask now.

His Highness needed to rest.

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.

.

A sudden movement made Hua Cheng open his eyes, surprised. At some point of the night, he fell asleep in the sedan, holding His Highness to make him comfortable. He could feel the weight of Xie Lian's head in his lap and his hand automatically went to caress the dark...

Wait.

Why was his Highness so small?!

Hidden between too big robes, a child Xie Lian slept peacefully, his body completely unmoving.

He was a ghost, Hua Cheng had to remind himself, to stop the crescent uneasiness. He didn't need to breathe and he was so powerful that his ashes should be his only weakness. Considering how relaxed Xie Lian was about all this, Hua Cheng probably should relax too.

It didn't matter, for Hua Cheng, how Xie Lian looked or in what state he was. Xie Lian was his God and, now, his King. And he would enjoy every moment near him, treasuring it even if he was ditched at the end. He knows that thought would upset Xie Lian deeply, so he didn't comment on it.

Instead, he knocked twice in the sedan's wood.

"What's happening?"

"My Lord, we are already here."

The answer made Xie Lian open his eyes sitting up and yawning, his hair disheveled from his rest. Hua Cheng couldn't help but find it endearing.

"Didi."

Xie Lian looked up to him, a brilliant smile on his face.

"San Lang! It worked!" He showed his little hands. "I need to work through this additional energy, so I thought if I diminished the amount forcefully, I'll be able to accompany you without trouble. I won't have my powers for a while, but I'm less vulnerable like this."

"Didi looks very adorable."

"Do I? Thanks." He stared at his clothes, too big for him. Hua Cheng controlled himself to not laugh.

"Here, didi, let me help."

A few moments later, both exited the sedan near a forest and Xie Lian dispensed the skeletons with a hand. Looking around he smiled.

"Word really travel fast. The last time there was a lot more ghosts than now."

"Didi said something to them?"

"I told them that I'm entering the Kiln and advised to them to not appear in here... But there are gods here too, San Lang. Has someone be assigned to guard the mountain?" As he spoke, Xie Lian raised his hand and Hua Cheng took him in his arms immediately.

"No, I was the only one..."

"Baba!" Both man looked back. BanYue appeared near them, his expression worried. "Baba, that disgusting Qi Rong kidnapped a group of humans and took them to the Mount. Shufu are with them."

"What is he doing here?" The small hands gripped onto Hua Cheng's robes.

"It seems like he took a child form too, but is still sick. A human from the group was looking for him while it happened. But he had energy enough to send this little one home to tell us." A little skeleton fish swam around her, like he was trying to get her to help.

"This is bad. Return home, BanYue. And don't let anyone come here. We'll rescue the humans and He Xuan and send them back."

The girl disappeared with the fish and Hua Cheng started to walk.

"Didi, do you really intent to enter the Kiln?"

"Yes."

"Isn't that what that freak wants?"

"I'm tired, San Lang." The sudden confession made Hua Cheng confused. Xie Lian hugged him by the neck, hiding his face on his shoulder. "I can't stand it, I despise existing under his rules and wishes. I'll end it this time."

And then, in a nearly inaudible voice, he concluded. "Even if it costs me everything."

Chapter Text

He Xuan didn't know where he was. He didn't know how long he was there. He didn't know who was near him either.

Lian-gege had warned him about how differently the energy from Mount Tong'Lu's opening affected powerful ghosts. As a Ghost King, he could end up losing his mind, acting instinctively until he passed out. Their bodies absorbed too much of that energy and they ended up forced to deal with them alone. He was told that the feeling was overwhelming and he would know exactly what happened when it happens.

He was right. When the energy caught up to him, he could only scream underwater, submerged in the middle of his sea. Somehow, after a while, he found himself laying down on grass, his body trembling. He was extremely vulnerable in this state and, with the last strength he had, he changed his body to be younger, smaller. Of course, he would look even more vulnerable as a child, but the chances to be found by an ill-intentioned human was lower this way. Most humans had enough of a heart to spare a sick child from their violence.

He fainted right after that. His consciousness had returned to him briefly, a few times, but not strong enough for him to remember much. But the things he remembered... He liked them.

He liked the freshly spring aroma from the person that picked him up from the woods. He liked the taste of the warm soup that person had served him.

He liked the way that person would sing at him when he trembled in his fever. He liked the calloused hands caressing his hair delicately.

He Xuan didn't need to worry about anything while that person was beside him. He could just lay down and trust completely in this person. And that was something hard to get.

The only place he felt safe until now was near Lian-gege, who were there for him since he exited the Kiln. So this person was really, really good in what they were doing, because He Xuan felt safe with them too. So safe he wished this peace could last more, just a little more.

But luck wasn't always at his side and, in one of his brief moments awake, the things seemed to get bad. He was moved and then his peace ended.

And he didn't like the screams, growls and disturbing laughs. He didn't like the way the person holding him shook and sounded afraid. He didn't like how they were holding him, as if they were terrified.

Why were they afraid? Didn't they know they were safe of him? He won't hurt them, he won't. In fact, he would protect them, even if from afar, the rest of their human life. It was the right thing to do for someone who showed him such kindness.

Oh, no, wait. They weren't afraid of him. They were afraid of something else. He didn't like it. This person was taking such a good care of him, with such tenderness, no one should make them afraid. How dare someone make them afraid, right next to him?

Yes, he was a lot vulnerable right now, but he was capable of taking down gods. The only being who shouldn't be afraid of him was Lian-gege, but he himself wasn't afraid of his fellow Ghost King too. As long as he respected Hua Cheng, he would be fine.

He opened his eyes, slowly, feeling his whole body ache and hurt. He Xuan felt the robe against his face, frail arms around him, trembling while sobbing. Oh, they were crying. He Xuan didn't like that too. To be honest, he hated it.

His small hand slowly moved into this person's face and they noticed the motion, looking down at him.

Ah, those eyes. Beautiful, unique in color and shine. Eyes he knew so well, for so much time.

Why the first thing He Xuan saw when reunited with his beloved was his tears? He really hated it.

"Shhhhh, stay still. It's not good to move now, they'll see..."

Who?

"QingXuan, shut up." That voice, He Xuan hated it too. But he recognized the obvious worried tone on it and He Xuan was so confused. What was happening?

"Sorry, ge."

No, his QingXuan shouldn't obey that asshole. Annoyed, he moved a bit on Shi QingXuan's lap.

"No, stay still, please, don't move." Shi QingXuan embraced him, his face being forced against the other's neck. Really, what was happening?

Looking over Shi QingXuan's shoulders he saw Shi Wudu sitting with his back at them, posture tensed up like he was ready to jump into anyone who came closer. They were not alone, too. A group of humans were sitting around them, some frightened, others praying or crying. And all them had one thing in common: a small, green flame atop their heads.

He Xuan nearly snarled. That lowly excuse of a ghost had kidnapped them? How inconvenient to be caught in such a vulnerable state.

Probing a bit, he let his powers flow slowly again in his meridians. Hmmm, acceptable. There was still a bit too much of energy, but the most of it had dissipated. It wouldn't be good to return to his original form now, he may be a little reckless with all this additional power.

For how long have he been out? Days? Weeks? Really, did it matter? He would have to wait a bit more, anyway.

How did he ended up with the Shi brothers? He couldn't remember even how he left his territory... That energy was terrifying. He Xuan hoped Lian-gege was alright, dealing with that alone in the temple, like he did last time.

With his consciousness fully back now, he noticed the sounds. Disgusting, classless sounds that made him roll his eyes.

"BRING ME MORE OF THIS! I NEED TO PREPARE! I'LL SPEND YEARS WITHOUT GOOD FOOD, BRING IT NOW!"

The sole existence of that ghost was nuisance enough, but he was very invested in being a pest. He never met anyone who didn't hate that fool.

"Which one, sir?" Asked a even lower ghost. He Xuan closed his eyes, trying to ignore the commotion and rest a bit more. The next time he wake up, he'll be able to...

"THE YOUNGER! YOUNG AND SOFT MEAT IS THE BEST!"

"No, no, no..." Shi QingXuan's started to shook again, pressing him harder against his chest, like he was using his own body as a shield. "Ge, please, we can't let them..."

Shi Wudu didn't answer for a moment, keeping his instance. But then be sighed, relaxing his body...

No, he wasn't relaxing. He was giving up.

"We are not gods anymore, QingXuan." He said, and Shi QingXuan cried harder. "We are not strong enough to save him. Or to save ourselves."

Shi QingXuan kept embracing him, until He Xuan could hear steps coming their way.

"No, please, don't, don't take him..." Shi QingXuan started to move him to his back, facing whoever was approaching. "You can take me, I'll go! Willingly, I swear, but let the boy..."

He Xuan touched his shoulder while getting up, his heart hurt, without looking at the other's face.

Shi QingXuan was a good man. A gentle, happy, beautiful being. In all his forms, he was gorgeous and his smiles meant... Everything, really. He Xuan could never let Green Ghost touch Shi QingXuan.

He Xuan could never let anyone touch him.

So he just walked to the ghost who came to him, passing by them, all humans looking at him with disbelief. His steps were a bit unstable, but it was okay. He needed more rest, but he could get that after ending Green Ghost existence for scaring his beloved.

"HAHAHA! LOOK! SO EAGER TO BE MY DISH!" The Green Ghost got up from his poor excuse of a throne, walking towards He Xuan, all barks, no bite.

He Xuan closed his eyes, letting his power flow more to...

A sudden explosion distracted him and, when he looked ahead, Green Ghost had his face deep into the ground, his head and body being held down by a small figure's feet.

Red robes, long dark hair, a sneer in the pretty and childish face.

"Lian-gege." He murmured, relieved.

He Xuan felt himself collapse, but someone took him before he fell to the ground. By the way he was cradled into a lap again, it was Shi QingXuan, who started to pull him away from the occurrence.

"Finally got my hands on you, Qi Rong." Everyone was even more afraid now. That child was subduing one of the Four Calamities with his feet alone! "Didn't you receive the warning? I told everyone that I'll enter the Kiln again, what are you doing here? Waiting for me to eat you so you could stand a chance of entering there too?"

Qi Rong tried to push up his head, but the physical strength of that child was... Too much.

"Cousin, you... Dog fucker... Attacking me with this lowly strategies... Too coward to face this one..."

"Oh, I tried for so long to get you, but you always ran from me. What's happening? Forgot your own place and wanted me to remind it to you?"

"Didi? Is everything alright down there?" Hua Cheng leaped from the hole in the ceiling, stopping right beside Xie Lian.

"I'm so sorry, my San Lang, you had a plan, but I couldn't control myself. I just..." Xie Lian started to forcibly step in the ghost's head, the unnerving cracking sounds making some humans nauseous. "Hate. His. Voice. So. Much."

"I don't thing he can't talk anymore, didi."

"Stepping on him makes me happy."

"Of course, didi. I'll take care of the prisoners. Have fun."

With that, He Xuan watched from afar as Hua Cheng started to free the humans, while Xie Lian kept on kicking and stepping on a already limp body.

It was not like Qi Rong would die for this, no one knew where his ashes were hidden. But he'll probably be out of touch for a few years to mend this body again.

Hua Cheng stopped before them, looking at the Shi brothers for a moment, nodding and then focusing in He Xuan.

"You are still unstable... Didi! How can I help him?"

"You won't!" The demanding voice was accompanied by a pouty expression. "Let him be, he'll be better soon."

"Did I upset you, Lian-gege?" Whispered He Xuan.

"If it wasn't for you, I would be already near the Kiln. You really have the worst of the lucks..." Xie Lian started to walk to them, shaking his head. "Or the best of it, it's hard to know now."

"The best, I guess..." He Xuan relaxed on Shu QingXuan's arms, ignoring his surprised expression.

"I see. Anyway, you should be fine soon. Take all the humans away from the mountain, as soon as possible and don't come back."

"Will you really enter the Kiln? Aren't you already powerful enough?" The complaining made Xie Lian sigh.

"Well, about that... I was invited to go."

He Xuan turned his head in Xie Lian's direction, shocked.

"Lian-gege... This is not funny..."

"It's the truth. That's why you need to protect them. And protect yourself too. Don't make me worry." The ghost looked at Shi QingXuan and smiled at him. "Please, take care of him. My A-Xuan is precious."

"I... I will."

"Let's go San Lang. We delayed our travel long enough." Hua Cheng nodded, taking Xie Lian in his arms.

In the same way they came, they vanished, leaving terrified ghosts, confused humans and a corpse.

"QingXuan, let him go. He can take care of himself now." Shi Wudu said, approaching them. The younger one only sighed, not moving from his spot.

"He's still unstable, Lord Hua Cheng said it." One of his hands caressed He Xuan's hair, and the Calamity let himself rest against him. "Who was that kid?"

"By the way Hua Cheng was following him? I'd say Ghost Flower."

He Xuan nodded, confirming Shi Wudu words and Shi QingXuan made an adorable surprised sound. His arms pressed He Xuan a bit more and, smiling sweetly.

"One more reason to take care of A-Xuan, then. We wouldn't want to enrage another Calamity, right, ge?"

Shi Wudu didn't answer, shrugging and going to talk with the other prisoners. Shi QingXuan kissed the top of his head, He Xuan closing his eyes and relaxing.

"You can rest, A-Xuan. I'll be here for you."

And He Xuan didn't need anything else.

Chapter Text

"Didi, is that the mountain you mentioned?"

Xie Lian, who was comfortably resting on Hua Cheng's arms, raised his head to see. In fact, one of the three moving mountains that surrounded Mount Tong'Lu was passing by in front of them.

"En. We can use it to get to the Kiln faster."

"I never saw a moving mountain before."

"I've only saw three of them so far, and all of them are here. Maybe it has something to do with the Mount? This is a cursed place, after all." Explained Xie Lian, playing with the red pearl dangling from Hua Cheng's braid.

"I didn't get close enough to it before ascending, so I don't really know about it."

"This seemed to be a country's territory. There's a lot of villages and cities. The capital itself is enormous, so I guess it was a prosperous country."

"What happened to it, didi?" Hua Cheng never heard about that before, so the new information interested him. And hearing Xie Lian talk in that form was too cute to let the subject aside.

"Mount Tong'Lu is a volcano, a big one. Most of the territory would be damaged with any eruption. There is a lot of bodies and souls trapped here, so I concluded most of the population died because of a violent eruption."

"If it hadn't any eruptions for long, they might had thought it wouldn't be an issue living so close to it." Hua Cheng approached the mountain, leaping into the side of it. "Does didi know something else?"

"Not really. I can't read the language or understand what the souls are saying. But the resentment here seems to reach lower levels right after a Ghost King is born. With the centuries, it rises again, leading to a new opening. My theory is that a Ghost King forged in the Kiln absorbs this place's energy, turning it into spiritual power."

"That would explain the gap between Wraths and Supremes."

"En." Xie Lian closed his eyes, sighing contently against the god's chest.

Hua Cheng kept walking, joyous to be able to carry His Highness, to be able to protect him, to let him rest there. The few ghosts that had approached them until then were easily defeated by an enthusiastic E-Ming, anxious to please His Highness too.

The stupid scimitar shook with intensity every time Xie Lian petted it, and Hua Cheng couldn't help but feel a bit proud of it too. E-Ming was created to serve His Highness and was good in doing it.

"My dear, there should be a cave somewhere, so we can enter the mountain. I need to meditate a bit." Hua Cheng nodded, looking around. Soon, he saw a small cave that led to a long tunnel inside the mountain. "Careful, the mountain can change the paths inside it. I don't want us to be separated."

"I think I have something to prevent that, didi."

"Oh?"

Once he found a place to put His Highness seated, Hua Cheng searched in his robes for a moment and then got down on one knee.

"Give me your left hand, didi."

Xie Lian smiled at him, offering the mentioned hand, looking at the god with sparkling eyes. A small red bow was tied to his middle finger, mirroring the one on Hua Cheng's right hand.

"San Lang, are you proposing to me?" Xie Lian's smile was brilliant like the sun and Hua Cheng had to divert his eye from him.

"Didi, I don't..."

"Don't you want it? Doesn't San Lang wants to marry me?"

"Of course I do!" The ghost laughed a bit. "You are messing with me, didi."

"I'm sorry, San Lang."

"I would marry you the second you decide to have me, didi." Hua Cheng seriousness made Xie Lian smile sweetly again. "I just don't think this is the appropriate moment to talk about that."

"What do you mean? I don't care to marry in the middle of nowhere, San Lang, I only want..."

"You are in a child's body, didi."

"Oh." Xie Lian had genuinely forgot about that part. He couldn't help laugh about it. "My San Lang is so noble, so proper! If talking about it now is uncomfortable, we can do it later, when I return to my normal adult self."

Hua Cheng nodded once more, feeling his chest full of that sweet love he felt since knowing His Highness. But he was embarrassed and decided to change the subject.

"It's a spiritual device, connecting us both. Even if something happens to any of us, we would know that the other still exists if the knot is intact. And we can use it to locate each other too."

The ghost looked at his own hand, lost in thoughts for a moment, his expression softening in such a way that Hua Cheng only now noticed how tensed he was.

"My dear San Lang is so clever." Xie Lian sighed and smiled again, crossing his arms. "I'll meditate now. It won't take long, so don't go far, San Lang."

"Never, didi."

Sitting on the ground next to Xie Lian, Hua Cheng observed the Ghost King, memorizing this adorable form of his. Was His Highness like this when he was a child? He probably looked even more lovely on his prince's outfits...

E-Ming felt it before he was able to hear or see anything, flying to a short distance ahead, scaring the being that was walking down the tunnel, pointing at their throat.

"My god, you scared me! This youngsters today, always disrespecting their elders like that..."

Hua Cheng got up from where he was sitting, standing between the person and His Highness.

"Older or not, do not come closer."

"I guess this weapon of yours had already passed the message." A few moments in silence passed until the being talked again. "This scimitar is E-Ming, right? So I guess the owner is here too. Is it you, young man?"

"If you know who I am, you should know better than come closer."

"Don't worry, I'm not an enemy. This old one is only an immortal traveler, that ended up in this place." A young, beautiful face appeared from a corner and Hua Cheng raised his eyebrow.

Have he met this person before?

"A kid? What is a respectable god like you doing here with a child?"

"It's the last warning. One more step and I'll test your immortality."

"Tsk, you are a violent one, aren't you?" The man stopped, his purple robes hugging tightly his figure, showing how young he seemed to be. And Hua Cheng definitely knew that face from somewhere...

Wait.

"Guoshi?" Hua Cheng couldn't hide his surprise, calling E-Ming back to him.

"Oh, nobody calls me guoshi since Xian Le. Were you one of my students there? I had too many, I'm sorry if I can't recall you..."

"His Highness took me there, but you didn't accept me." Was Hua Cheng answer. "Anyway, I didn't know Guoshi was an immortal. If I knew I would had looked for you."

"I don't leave these mountains, they are the best place to hide... You said His Highness took you to Mount Taicang? Are you talking about the Crown Prince? He only took one boy there and I accepted him, that lowly servant of his."

"Mu Qing wasn't the only one. Guoshi read my luck and immediately threw me..."

"You are that kid?!" Mei NianQing took a step back, surprised. "And you are a god now? Hua Cheng, of all of them? What kind of dark cultivation did you use for achieving that? Your fate was clear! You should have died before..."

"I did. I'm a ghost too."

"A god, who is a ghost. Such a mess." The Xian Le's Guoshi sighed. "You didn't answer me, young man. Why is a god here with a child?"

Hua Cheng pondered for a moment, considering the option of simply make the immortal leave them. But he could remember the respect His Highness had for this man, so he took a step aside, letting him see by himself who he was accompanying.

Mei NianQing eyes nearly fell from it's sockets.

"His Highness?!"

Something in the way Guoshi said that made Hua Cheng return to his spot, shielding Xie Lian for the elder's eyes.

"It's a temporary form."

"That's not the issue! What is his Highness doing here? It's dangerous for a god like you, but it's even worse for a banished god..."

"He's not banished. He rejected Heavens." Hua Cheng couldn't understand, but that uneasiness only got worse. And talking out loud about His Highness past didn't seem to be appropriate. Guoshi looked at him and sighed.

"Either way, he shouldn't be here. It's dangerous, so I advise you to take him away as soon as possible, young man. Or to let him stay hiding here while you do whatever godly deed the Emperor gave you."

"His Highness decided to go into the Kiln again. I'm only here to keep him company in the way."

"Again?" Mei NianQing raised an eyebrow. "His Highness came here before? How didn't I... You said he decided to go into the Kiln?"

Hua Cheng nodded, crossing his arms while observing the older reaction.

"A ghost! His Highness is a ghost! How could this happen?! He would never allow it... How did it happen?! Did he tell you?"

"It's rude to ask about a ghost's death." Interrupted the god. "And who is him?"

"What?"

"You said it. 'He would never allow it'. Who?"

"That's nothing to a young man like you to concern yourself with. His Highness..."

"He's my partner and you'll tell me right now who is the one you were referring to." Hua Cheng could feel his tongue clearly inside his mouth after saying it, feeling a bit guilty. Calling Xie Lian his partner in front of his Guoshi... Maybe he was being a bit too much excited about their closeness.

"Partner? You are his partner?" The god felt a little offended, but he was more focused in getting answers so he decided to ignore it.

But the ghost behind him didn't seem to be pleased with that. With a low, growling voice, Xie Lian interrupted them.

"If you disrespect my lover again, you better start running."

Hua Cheng looked back, surprised to see an older ghost now. It looked like the meditation was helping His Highness to return to his original form. But more than that, he needed to control his own body because His Highness' voice was doing unholy things to mind.

Coughing, trying to keep the conversation going to maintain a distraction, Hua Cheng smiled at Guoshi.

"As you can see, His Highness it's not that patient anymore. So start talking, Guoshi."

"You... Your Highness, always a menace." Mei NianQing sighed heavily. "I was talking about the Emperor. He would never let His Highness just die."

"He did. He was the one who did it."

"Impossible, he didn't want that. He can be mean sometimes, but..."

"Mean?" Oh, that was an excellent distraction, because even E-Ming started to tremble in rage. "Are we talking about the same person? Or does Guoshi not know who that bastard is?"

"So you know..." Mei NianQing avoided looking at Hua Cheng's face.

"Guoshi knows, then. You saw it yourself in Xian Le? Or after it?"

"I always knew. I... Jun Wu's past, the one everyone knows, it's a lie."

"Not surprised."

"You are a tough one, aren't you?" Then, like he remembered something, Guoshi shook his head. "He was a Crown Prince, more than two thousand years ago. I worked for him, as his assistant. When he ascended, I was there. When he dreamed about the eruption, I was there too."

"Eruption?"

"This territory was a country before, named Wuyong. He was adored by every single citizen, so when he warned the royalty about the eruption, they believed him. But all the solutions they suggested involved war in the borders and the Crown Prince didn't approve of any of them. So he..."

"Tried to solve it himself." Interrupted Hua Cheng, blood boiling at his veins. "He looked for a third path, alone, but in vain. He couldn't save his people, he was banished. He lost his mind and pursued revenge."

Mei NianQing looked at him, in silence, for a long moment. And then, with his eyes at the ground, he nodded. Hua Cheng snorted, unsatisfied with that passive posture.

"He was really trying to make His Highness be like him... All that happened in Xian Le was his fault, wasn't it?"

"I tried to protect him." Answered Mei NianQing, sadness in his face. "I tried so, so hard to keep His Highness away from him. I tried to warn him, make him change his ways, I even sent him to travel the country alone so he could get more experience and stop being so much alike Jun Wu before... But it didn't work. He kept putting his own morals and opinions before anything else, it was like nothing could brake him. But he was only a child, stubborn and immature, running right into the Emperors hands and I swear that I tried to keep him safe. Looking at him now, as a ghost... I guess his banishment was the final blast against his soul, too."

Hua Cheng felt his own hate subdue a bit. Guoshi was not at Jun Wu's side, he really seemed to care about His Highness too. And, because of that, he didn't expect the sudden force of His Highness power, flowing with violent waves in his direction.

No, not in his direction. In Mei NianQing's direction.

Hua Cheng turned around and Xie Lian was on his adult form again, eyes focused on his Guoshi, his face showing all his disgust. He could only take a step back, letting His Highness walk to Mei NianQing, who looked taken aback.

"Why are you talking to a god without prostrating yourself?" Questioned Xie Lian, his voice sharp and cold. A Ghost King in all his splendid rage. How was Hua Cheng supposed to feel about that?

His God was beautiful when holding flowers, kindness and joy on his face.

His King was stunning when holding swords, determination and strength in his posture.

"Your Highness..." Guoshi tried to move but he found out he couldn't do it.

"Why are you talking so freely with my San Lang?" Xie Lian was mad, really. "Why are you saying that hideous name in front of me? But even worse..."

In a blink of the eye, Xie Lian was holding Mei NianQing by the jaw, staring at the surprised immortal.

"Why are you lying?"

"I'm not!" The Guoshi tried to say, not reacting at the attack as if he new better than do it. "I told... I told him the truth! I swear, I'm not lying!"

"You never tried to protect me from him. You tried to do things differently for only yourself!" Mei NianQing's body fled through the tunnel, the impact of his body against the wall making the mountain tremble. "You said it! Jun Wu was alone at his time, you failed him, you abandoned him too! You left him alone and now you regret it, because you think you would be able to change him if you didn't left him behind. Isn't that right?"

"Of course I feel guilty!" The immortal shouted back, trying to get up, but failing.

"And that's the only reason you came to me. You tried to mend things for you, to make that feeling disappear. You are even lying out loud, trying to convince yourself that you tried to protect me, when you didn't do anything!"

"I tried!"

"You knew it! You knew who Jun Wu was, you knew what happened to him, you knew he would try to do the same to me. You knew and didn't tell me!"

"You were a kid..."

"And I wasn't prepared to take care of myself because you hid the danger from me. You are not stupid, Mei NianQing. You know very well that's safer to teach a boy how to use knives than to hide them from him." Xie Lian crossed his arms, his aura a bit more calm now. "You only thought about your own guilt, trying to keep yourself away from Jun Wu's awareness so you wouldn't be in danger. Such a coward, such a failure."

"I talked to you so many times about how destructive was the path you choose to yourself. I tried, I did, but you ignored me! Ignored all my warnings! I... I cared about you, Xie Lian, and hurts me seeing you like this. You were precious and being banished it's a hard thing, but..."

"Do you think that I'm like this because of the banishment?"

"You always dreamed about being a god. And you deserved so much better..."

"What about my people or Yong'an people, Mei NianQing? Didn't they deserve better?" The Guoshi opened his mouth to answer, but the ghost didn't let him. "My parents and Feng Xin? What about them? Was Mu Qing so inferior to you that he didn't deserve better too? And my Hong-er? Are you telling me my Hong-er didn't deserve better?"

The immortal didn't answer, looking at the ground, shoulders trembling like he was crying. And he probably was, but Xie Lian didn't seem to care.

"You always considered Jun Wu too strong to be defeated, so you treated me like I couldn't win. You adore him so much that you can't even imagine him losing. You let your love and guilt blind you. And this is only your own fault." Xie Lian turned to Hua Cheng, expression still severe, but eyes more kind to him. "San Lang, can you make him, you know, portable?"

"Of course, gege." With a flick of his hand, the Guoshi transformed into a small daruma doll, trembling between Hua Cheng's fingers when picked up. The sad expression and tears painted in the wood made the god sigh. "Gege..."

"We are near Mount Tong'Lu. Let's go now, San Lang."

Hua Cheng could only nod and follow his King out of the mountain.

Chapter Text

"Your hands feel better than heaven itself, Xuan Zhen. Tell me again why I didn't know this until now."

Mu Qing soft smile reflected on the water of Jun Wu's bathtub. Sitting on the border of it, wearing casual dark robes, the doctor's fingers massaged the Emperor's shoulders, making the tensed muscles relax under his touch.

"My Lord never injured himself like this before, so my abilities weren't needed."

"I can only receive such pleasure when injured?" Mu Qing chuckled, his hands focusing on massaging the Emperor's left arm. He started from the curve of the neck, descending slowly, the oils easing the movement.

"Of course not. My Lord can ask for a massage anytime he wants."

"Good. I'll trouble you more frequently then." Jun Wu pleased voice made him smile a bit more.

"It will be no problem at all."

Since that meeting, Mu Qing didn't leave the Emperor's Palace. In charge of his Majesty's recovery and with an order to make him company, the little Mu Qing knew about the outside situation was from the reports the Emperor received. Feng Xin seemed to be having a bad time dealing with both territories alone, because there was not report from him yet.

“Please, extend your hand, my Lord.“

Jun Wu obediently gave him his hand, his arm leaning in the bathtub, muscles relaxed under Mu Qing's ministrations.

“What are you thinking about, Xuan Zhen? You look troubled."

"I'm a bit worry about my territory. With all the due respect, General Nan Yang might be having a bit of a work there.“

“I didn't know you were this thoughtful, Xuan Zhen. Don't worry, Nan Yang it's very capable."

“I know that, of course. But if he messes up, it's my people who would suffer the consequences, you see." Mu Qing moved, starting to give the same attention to Jun Wu's right arm.

“You really care about your obligations, don't you? I wish more gods were like you..."

“I'm sure everyone is doing their best, my Lord.“

“They are not, believe me. Tan Hua is still immature and too naive to solve most of the problems of his territory without guidance. Qi Ying is a lost cause already, I ask myself everyday how his followers could love him so much when he doesn't cares about anything but that lost shixiong of his. And most of you doesn't know, but Xuan Ji wasn't the only one of Pei Ming's exes that caused trouble. Why is he so fond of problematic women?“

Mu Qing laughed, making Jun Wu turn to look at him, his movement disturbing the bathtub's water surface.

“I'm serious, Xuan Zhen! And I don't want to talk about Ling Wen! That woman is a nightmare, I swear. And don't get me started with Hua Cheng...“

“My Lord really has too much on his plate.“

“I'm blessed that you are efficient as you are, so Nan Yang is always trying to be like you because of that competition thing going on between you two. Maybe I should use you as inspiration and make some kind of game out of this... But it will be useless in a short time. You would probably win every year.“

“My Lord..."

"Do my words trouble you, Xuan Zhen?" Mu Qing's hands were covered by the Emperor's. “It's the truth.“

“And I'm happy to know that my work pleases your Majesty, but there are more appropriate moments to..."

"Maybe I don't want a appropriate moment, Xuan Zhen." They stared at each other for a moment, before Mu Qing diverted his attention to the oils near them. Noticing that he wouldn't get any answers now, Jun Wu returned to his previous place in the bathtub, closing his eyes in resignation.

Mu Qing's fingers didn't need his concentration to touch the right places, with the right amount of pressure. Soon enough, the Emperor was relaxed again. Mu Qing took a step back, finishing the massage and taking the oils to the shelf behind them.

While he organized the oils and wiped his hands with a soft cloth, Mu Qing's eyes strayed to the table at his right side. The Emperor's clothes were there, folded neatly, waiting for when the man decided to get out of the bath. And right beside the robes were the jewelry.

The simple, golden ring was in Mu Qing's hand before he could really think of it.

And a heavy, strong grip took his wrist from behind at the same moment he closed his hand.

“Xuan Zhen. Care to tell me what are you doing?"

Mu Qing's body tensed like a bow string, all his battle instincts screaming at him to run. Run away, run away right now.

"This ring got my attention, My Lord. I just wanted to see it better.“

“You are not fond of gold, Xuan Zhen. You always preferred silver, and it suit you.“

“And my Lord never uses simple jewelry, but this one ring it's always with him. Does it have some meaning?" The Southern god wasn't sure how his voice did failed him yet, but he was grateful for that.

"Oh, it does. It's a little souvenir I got from someone I hold dear.“ Mu Qing felt the grip tightening on him and fingertips tracing the side of his neck. “But you already know that, don't you, my sweet Xuan Zhen?"

RUN!

His body moved by itself, the back of his head hitting the Emperor on the nose and making him take a step back, surprised. The grip in his wrist weakened and Mu Qing used all his strength to free himself.

Mu Qing never ran so fast in his entire existence, getting out of the bathroom and crossing the bedroom in a blink of the eyes. As soon as he passed the array connecting the door to the Great Martial Hall, Mu Qing took the array down, running again. That way, he would have a little more time to get out of Heaven, hide the ring and contact Hua Cheng before the Emperor got him.

And, only then, Mu Qing would be able to rest peacefully again, without nightmares about...

“Brilliant plan, Xuan Zhen.“ The voice reached him before he could even get near the Martial Hall's doors. Turning his face around, he was met with the Emperor in light inner robes, hair still dump from the bath, all his body relaxed as he walked in Mu Qing's direction.

How was that possible?! Mu Qing destroyed the array!

Putting the ring on his finger, Mu Qing turned around and kept running.

“But you're too weak to make it work.“

Before Mu Qing could make sense of the words, a hand grabbed him by the back of his neck, pushing him down with such force that Mu Qing had to remind himself he was fighting against a god and not against a natural disaster. It didn't matter how much he tried to break free, the hand kept him there easily. The hand with the ring was beneath him, his body protecting it.

“You made yourself more present than usual, following orders like the efficient servant you are. Such a good liar, smiling and listening to me so adorably while waiting the right moment to strike. It's a pity you couldn't wait a bit more, maybe your plan would have worked. “

“You... Knew..."

"That you planned to steal the ring from me? No, I just knew that you were planning something. So I made a excuse to keep you near.“ Mu Qing closed his eyes, his face pressed against the cold marble. "But have to be honest, it took me by surprise that the ring was your target. Can I guess and say this has something to do with Ghost Flower?"

The Emperor didn't receive any answer, so he sighed, getting up and turning Mu Qing around, reaching for the hand with the ring. Mu Qing raised a leg, kicking him in the middle of the chest. The blow was enough to put some distance between them and he started to run again immediately.

Mu Qing knew this was useless, but what else could he do? He wasn't strong enough to even think in battling the Emperor and he wasn't crazy like Hua Cheng either. So all he could do was stick to the plan and get out of Heavens, but it felt like it was impossible now...

An arrow crossed the Martial Hall, startling Mu Qing and making the Emperor click his tongue in annoyance. When the god turned his head, he was met with Feng Xin's back, his arms still holding his bow firmly. Row after row of spiritual arrows flew in Jun Wu's direction, forcing him to avoid them and keep his distance.

“Feng Xin..."

"Don't stop, dumbass! You got it, right? Go! I got your back!"

“But you..."

"Shut up and go!"

He was right. Feng Xin was right, he needed to go, he couldn't waste any more time here, he needed to go...

But as soon as he got near the Martial Hall's door, an awful and loud crack made Mu Qing stop and look back.

Feng Xin's bottom lip bled from the way he had to bite it to not scream at his upper arm being so easily broken in half by the Emperor's hands. His face was pressed to the ground under Jun Wu's bare foot, his whole body incapable of moving. His right arm was still being held up, making it hurt even more.

It was a clean fracture that left the arm completely useless, and Mu Qing knew, before even looking at Jun Wu, he knew it was that way in purpose. A wound that made it easy to heal without any long time damage. And easy to rip the whole arm off, if he wanted to.

“You are really clever, Xuan Zhen. Now…” The Emperor extended his hand, smiling. “The ring.“

“Don't!" Yelled Feng Xin, trying to free himself, in vain.

Mu Qing's eyes darted between Feng Xin and Jun Wu a couple of times before a scream made him nauseous.

"Shhhh, calm down, Nan Yang. It's just an arm, it doesn't hurt that much… Yet.“

Another scream and Mu Qing felt in his soul that the Emperor was being serious: he would take Feng Xin's arm off. But giving him the ring was something he couldn't bring himself to do. He really couldn't...

"Still hesitating, Xuan Zhen? Let me put things in a better perspective for you.“

Mu Qing had to blink a few times to convince himself that he wasn't hallucinating. From thin air, Zhan Madao simply appeared in Jun Wu's hand. In an impeccable form, the sabre pointing down... To Feng Xin's neck.

“What…"

“Why are you looking so afraid now? I'm making things easier for you, you really deserve it after all your effort in stealing the ring. So, what's your choice, Xuan Zhen?"

Zhan Madao's blade touched sun-kissed skin and Mu Qing felt his body freeze. His mind was looking for an option, trying to make another plan, searching for words or actions that could stop this, that could prevent any of the two given outcomes.

But he was too weak.

Too weak.

Too late and too weak, and...

“Mu Qing.“ Silver met gold and a sweet smile adorned Feng Xin's face. “Go.“

It happened too fast. At the same time Feng Xin closed his eyes, Jun Wu smiled with Zhan Madao moving in his hand, making a arch downwards...

“TAKE IT!“ Screamed Mu Qing, his knees buckling and letting him fall to the ground. The sabre stopped its course immediately. Trembling, he took the ring out of his finger, extending it to the Emperor. “Take it. Please, my Lord, just..."

"Oh, my sweet Xuan Zhen.“ Mu Qing didn't have the strength to look up, only hearing the steps in his direction. “Don't be sad, you did good. If you had more time, maybe you could even had succeeded. It's a pity things had to be this way, I don't like it either. And if it was any other thing you stole, I would have let you get it, you know? As a reward.“

The ring was taken and Mu Qing felt a caress in the top of his head. It was a soft, lovingly caress, but it made Mu Qing's stomach sick.

Suddenly, he couldn't... He couldn't breathe.

“But I need this ring. And trying to steal this one is a great offense, Xuan Zhen.“

Mu Qing didn't need a mirror to know that he had shackles around his neck now. Just like the one Xie Lian had and tried so desperately to hid, so long ago.

As his vision got dark and his consciousness left his body, Mu Qing fell on his side, feeling like a few hands took him up.

“Take them to the cells under the Palace. I'll deal with them both after dealing with Ghost Flower.“

The last thing Mu Qing heard was Zhan Madao falling to the ground with a loud clink, left behind, forgotten, but clean.

It was clean and Mu Qing could only feel relief.

Chapter Text

The strident screams were a terrible companion to have while waking up. Mu Qing slowly opened his eyes, noticing how he could breathe better now, his body getting used to the constant pressure on his neck. While sitting up slowly, Mu Qing tried to see something in the dark cell, but in vain. He could only hear the screams and his body was begging for him to return to the unconscious state he was before, just so he could stop being so bothered by…

Oh, that was Feng Xin.

“…” Mu Qing found out soon that his breath wasn’t the only thing that was difficult now. He needed to actively make an effort to let a single, strangled sound leave his throat.

Was this what His Highness felt when he got his shackle too? If so, he could only admire that man even more. This new weight was a reminder of his own failure and weakness, and all Mu Qing wanted right now was to die. But Xie Lian carried himself proudly even after being banished and ridiculed by everyone.

And now Xie Lian was…

A hand helped him sit up properly, making him look up in surprise, but he still wasn’t able to see anything in the dark.

“You are finally awake. Did he hurt you?” Feng Xin’s voice was close, firm, so Mu Qing concluded he was the only one gifted with the shackles.

“No.”

“Great. Now we need to get out of here before he notices about the ring.” Mu Qing didn’t move and Feng Xin sighed. “Look, I know this is a hard situation for you, but we need to take the ring out of the Emperor’s territory.”

“I gave him the ring.”

“Yes, the fake one. So we need… You gave him the fake one, right?” Silence followed his question. “Mu Qing, this is not a good time for jokes. You gave him the fake one, right?”

In the dark cell, Feng Xin couldn’t see Mu Qing’s expression, but he felt how his body tensed up. That could only mean one thing.

“It was the real one.” Feng Xin concluded. “For fuck's sake, Mu Qing! Do you even know what that ring is?!” He let go of Mu Qing’s body, his steps echoing.

“The Emperor…”

“This is not about him! It’s not even about me! At least tell me you don’t know about Ghost Flower's identity!“

“I saw his calligraphy when he sent Hua Cheng a gift.”

“Then you knew!“

“How did you find out?" Mu Qing's voice sounded tired and could be barely audible.

"It was obvious once I stopped looking for weaknesses on Ghost Flower's past and started to look for them on Hua Cheng's... Does that even matter?! You knew about that, knew about the ring and you just gave it back to Jun Wu that easily?!"

“Easily?“ Mu Qing rolled his eyes, even if he could not be seen. “You were there, you know very well that Jun Wu would kill you for that ring!”

“And I was fine with that! I abandoned His Highness once; I wasn't about to do it again!"

“But I was!” Yelled Mu Qing, even when his throat hurt. “I’m selfish! I’m not going to make such sacrifices for him!”

“You are such a liar! If you were that selfish, you wouldn’t even try to steal the fucking ring!" The wall behind Mu Qing trembled when Feng Xin's fist hit it. "You said you won’t make sacrifices, but you tried to face Jun Wu alone!”

“That has nothing to do with him!"

“How?! You were willing to lose your life for him! What could be more important…”

“You!” Feng Xin stopped, hearing the low sobs in the dark. “I don’t care to fall, Feng Xin. I don’t care to die, either. But I cannot and I will not sacrifice you. Not for him. Not for anyone else.”

“Mu Qing…”

“Stop it. You hate me, don’t talk to me like you don’t.” Closing his eyes, Mu Qing let his body fall to the ground again. “I’m useless now. Do whatever the fuck you want, but leave me alone.”

“I…”

“Leave me alone.”

Mu Qing felt satisfied when he only received silence as an answer. That way, he would be able to, at least, rest before his inevitable fate found him.

.

.

.

“Gege.“

Hua Cheng shouldn't do that. He shouldn't, but as they climbed the volcano and approached the Kiln, he felt more and more restless. Now, they were at the side of the Mount, snow slowly falling around them. It wouldn't be long before they reached the volcano's crater.

He didn't have more time. And he needed to know.

Xie Lian turned his face to him, confused about the sudden stop.

“Gege, we need to talk. “

“San Lang, we are so close the Kiln already, we better..."

"No, gege.“ It hurt saying no to His Highness, but what else could he do? If he didn't pressure him, Hua Cheng would probably never know the truth.

"San Lang?"

“You will face him up there and we don't know what will happen to us after it.“ Taking his God's hands, he stared at Xie Lian. "I know gege might find this subject uncomfortable, but I... I imagine too much. Not knowing what happened is driving me crazy, because all the possibilities might be the truth and I suffer with all of them.“

Xie Lian avoided his stare, looking down, his expression showing how bothered he was. And Hua Cheng would normally ignore his own needs to please his God, but now, in the face of such danger...

He needed to know.

“San Lang is right, of course. It's just... I don't even know how to start talking about it..."

"So, I'll make the questions, is it better that way?" Receiving a nod as an answer, Hua Cheng smiled a bit. “Thank you, gege.“

“It's only fair that you know what happened."

"Was it Bai Wuxiang?"

“No.“ Xie Lian took his hand and started to walk again, Hua Cheng following in silence. “Well, not directly. I told you before, that bastard has the power to do things, but he often let others do the hard work for him. He didn't hold the sword, but he surely was the one who made that happened.“

“The scar in your chest..."

"It's my death scar, yes. Doesn't matter what form I take, it is always there. The resentment on FangXin was still too strong at the time, so my body absorbed it.“ Hua Cheng steps faltered, but Xie Lian kept walking, so he was forced to recover fast.

"So it was with FangXin.“

"FangXin it's not a bad sword, just... It's owner is the issue.“

They stayed in silence for a moment, Hua Cheng absorbing the information while thinking in a proper way to ask the most sensible question he has. He decided to avoid it, for now, focusing on other things first.

“I heard that the Kiln requires a resentment strong enough to survive the trial. Do you resent Bai Wuxiang for what happened?“

“Of course I resent him, but he isn't the reason I'm still here." Xie Lian turned his face to him, smiling. "Hate is not enough to make it through the Kiln.“

"What do you mean? Even if you don't, He Xuan clearly sought revenge after his family's death... Oh.“

“Exactly. A-Xuan wanted to avenge his family, but hate wasn't the feeling that fueled him. He knows that, so he knows the only way for him to disperse is destroying his own ashes. Because he would never stop loving his family.“

“But that would mean Bai Wuxiang... “

“I don't know if it applies to him.“ His Highness stopped walking, looking at the crater before them. It was deep and dark, the snow disappearing before it could reach any ground. "I was the first Ghost King forged in the Kiln, A-Xuan was the second and last one. And, to be honest, I don't care about that. Whatever the reason he has, I merely want him to disappear. By my own hands, preferably.“

Hua Cheng wanted to keep asking things, but a strange, crescent feeling made him change the subject.

“Gege, can the Kiln chose someone to enter?"

"I'm not sure, A-Xuan and I entered by instinct. We weren't in our best state of mind at the time to notice anything... Why do you ask?"

“Because I feel like it's calling me."

As soon as he said that, Xie Lian raised his head, looking at the other side of the volcano's crater. Hua Cheng couldn't see anything because of the snow, but His Highness posture was enough to tell him what was happening.

They weren't alone anymore.

"Hua Cheng.“ Xie Lian took his mask from one of his sleeves, covering his own face. His voice lost all the emotion it had before. "He's trying to get you inside the Kiln. Ignore it and return to Ghost City.“ The god opened his mouth to reply to that, but the trembling grip at his hand distracted him.

"Gege?"

"I'm afraid, San Lang. I'm terrified, to be honest. My mind can only think of taking you in my arms, run away and hide from him. I... I really want to do that. Now.“ His Highness' eyes haven't strayed from an specific point in front of them. "But, more than that, I'm tired. I endured all this centuries, planning and scheming and trying to find a third path, like I always did. I stayed away from you on purpose, to keep you safe from him and from whatever he planned to do with me. But once I had you in front of me in Mount Yujun... I knew I didn't have a choice in this. I didn't even have a second path. There's only one way to deal with him.“

Hua Cheng wanted to say something, to comfort his God in some way, but his words didn't stop.

“I'm sorry for my weakness, San Lang. If I was stronger, braver... We could have been together all this time. I didn't believe I could win against him and that belief kept you away from me, alone. It was my fault and I don't intend to keep things going on like this anymore.“ After a soft caress on his hand, Xie Lian let go, taking a step forward.

“Gege, what...“

“Don't jump after me. The Kiln would kill us both if you do, because we won't be able to fight against each other.“ His God turned to see him, the crying mask a mirror to Hua Cheng's feelings. “I love you, San Lang.“

Hua Cheng couldn't answer. He couldn't even move while seeing Xie Lian's body disappear amidst the raging snowstorm...

Wait.

There wasn't a snowstorm before, only a calm and slow snowing. The sudden change wasn't normal and Hua Cheng only had time to blink before he felt the ground disappearing beneath his feet.

He was falling into the darkness, a strong déjà vu flowing in his veins.

Once, he fell on accident. His Highness was there for him that time, careful and kind arms holding him. He never felt so safe in his life before and never found a safer place than his God embrace.

But, this time, it felt like he was thrown and all he encountered at the end of the fall was hard and pitiless ground. His consciousness threatened to leave him, but Hua Cheng forced himself to stay awake.

A few moments passed, without any sign of movement or light, while Hua Cheng recovered from the fall. He could feel the warm rock beneath his body, so he concluded that was the Kiln and, by the silence around him, it was sealed.

Carefully, Hua Cheng got up, a small flame on one hand and E-Ming on the other. The saber was extremely quiet, ready to strike if something suspicious got close to it's wielder.

It wasn't smart to light a fire in the middle of the darkness, he knew that, but he couldn't care. If there was other ghosts in here, he was stronger than them. If His Highness entered the Kiln too, he wanted to be found easily. If Bai Wuxiang was there, he would be in danger with or without the light.

With careful steps, Hua Cheng started to walk in a straight line ahead. Being near the borders of the Kiln would let him less vulnerable to attacks. It didn't take long for him to reach a wall, old blood stains on it's surface, probably from the past fights inside...

Well, stains were the wrong way to describe them. Looking closely, the blood formed lines, that formed characters and, then, words. Hua Cheng illuminated the wall better and E-Ming nearly fell from his hand when he was able to make sense of the mess there.

The lines didn't make words, but a name. A single name, repeated over and over again, covering all the wall and the ground too. In a variety of sizes, sometimes wrote neatly, sometimes so messy that he could barely read it.

“Wu Ming.“

The voice behind him felt like a distant, terrible nightmare that returned to bother him. He didn't need to turn to look at the creature, he already knew all he was going to find was white robes and a half crying, half smiling mask.

“I see you found out how His Highness kept his sanity while being sealed inside here, eight hundred years ago.“ Bai Wuxiang steps got slowly closer to him, so Hua Cheng decided not to move yet. “I know, I felt the exact same way as you when I saw this for the first time. Do you think he was afraid of forgetting about his last and most devoted believer? Or maybe he was feeling so guilty he couldn't stop cutting himself to offer Wu Ming his blood? The Kiln isn't kind in it's trials, after all.“

Hua Cheng didn't answer him, all his senses prepared for the battle. The creature might had sensed it, because he closed their distance, stopping right beside him.

“But I guess it was obvious. He died for Wu Ming. It is expected that he survived the Kiln because of him, too.“ The way Hua Cheng's body tensed up made Bai Wuxiang turn to him, his mask glowing with the soft light in the god's hand. “Oh, didn't he tell you about his death?“

Only the dark eye moved, staring into that mask with a mix of hate and pain.

“Poor thing, he didn't. If that's the case...“ When the Calamity moved, Hua Cheng reacted immediately, guiding E-Ming into attack. But he probably was too slow, because a hand held his wrist easily, while another covered Hua Cheng's face. “Let me show it to you.“

Chapter Text

800 years ago

“Welcome back to the ranks, Xianle.“

Confused, Xie Lian looked up at Jun Wu. He watched the whole fight from a side, eyes barely following the figures, something much more important occupying his mind. So, he was taken by surprise when, raising his hand and touching his neck he didn't felt the shackles anymore.

He ascended a second time. But why?

What did he accomplish this time to deserve this? He nearly unleashed the plague on innocent people. He tried to avenge himself and the ones he loved. He effectively murdered Wu Ming, his...

Blinking, still in a dazed state, Xie Lian nodded to Jun Wu and started to get up.

“Is Bai Wuxiang really dead now?" He asked, eyes lost in the destroyed field.

"He is, Xianle. You don't need to worry about it anymore."

“Hmm.“ Slowly, the newly ascended god walked away.

“Xianle? Where are you going?"

"Am I... A god?" He asked, making Jun Wu smile at him.

“Of course you are, Xianle. I knew you would be able to return to Heavens in a short time, but you are always surprising me and ascended sooner than I thought.“

“So, I am a god now?" Xie Lian stopped in front of FangXin. The dark sword didn't hold any spirits now, but their resentment will not fade from the blade so fast. Taking FangXin in his hand, Xie Lian could feel the dark energy flowing in it, it's weight lighter than the last time he hold it.

Nearby, left alone in the ground, was a white flower. Xie Lian looked at it, deep in thought. Behind him, the Emperor started to get worried at the strange behavior.

“Do you need time to recover, Xianle? It must been hard to deal alone with Bai Wuxiang until I arrived. Come, I'll let you rest in my palace for now. We can think about your new roles in Heavens after...“ Noticing he was being ignored, Jun Wu approached, touching Xie Lian's shoulder. “What's on your mind, Xianle?"

"My Lord, can I ask a humble question?“

"Of course you can.“

“Do I have any believer left?" Xie Lian turned to the Emperor, looking as lost as he felt. “One... One believer is enough. Do I have one?“

Jun Wu was taken aback by the question. What a silly thing to worry about. Humans were easy to manipulate and even easier to conquer as a god. And by their numbers, the quantity of believers would barely be an issue even for those without any kind of recognition during their life. Ling Wen and Lord Rain Master were a clear example of that.

“I'm sure Xianle will be loved by the humans again, sooner than later. You don't have to worry about not having a lot of believers now."

"My question was simple, my Lord, so please answer it. Do I have any believer left?" The insistence made Jun Wu confused for a moment.

“I don't know what do you want to hear from me, Xianle.“

“It could only be a no or a yes. Do I have..."

"No.“

“I see.“ Xie Lian reached down, taking the small flower between his fingers. “So Bai Wuxiang didn't lie. Wu Ming was really the last one I had.“

“Who?"

“My Wu Ming, my last believer. He... Died here.“

“Well, I'm sure we can make something to keep his memory alive, if this is so important to you, Xianle. We can think about that together after your rest... “

“I am no god.“ When they stared at each other again, Jun Wu got even more confused. “I destroyed him, the most devoted believer I had. It was my fault, my Lord, and I have to take responsibility for that. I was his god. Without him, I don't want to be one anymore.“

The Emperor sighed, tiredness in his expression and voice.

“Don't be childish, Xianle. Reject Heavens is not something you can do for yourself.“

“Why not? I don't deserve it.“

“It's not your place to decide that."

"So who's place it is? Yours? If so, reject me. I don't want to be a god. I am not a god.“ Xie Lian insisted, bothered.

"I do not control who ascends or not.“ Explained Jun Wu, not certain of what was that reaction about. "You ascended because it's your fate to do it. Even if you were capable of rejecting this time, it would happen again eventually.“

“So I can't reject my own fate?"

“You are a god, Xianle. We can think in a fitted punishment if you want..."

"Don't want that."

“Why are you being so stubborn about this? You can't reject being a god. There's only two ways to not be one anymore and I will not banish you for such a petty reason.“ Jun Wu started to walk, getting away. “You are clearly out of your clear mind now. We'll talk about this again, later.“

“What it is?"

"What?"

“The other way. You said it was two.“

“Don't be silly, Xianle. It's not even a possibility for you.“ The Emperor shook his head, looking at him condescendingly.

“Why not?"

"No one is strong enough to end you or would be willing to try it." Xie Lian relaxed expression made the Emperor smile again. “I know you need to atone for your sins, but we can find a better way to honor that believer of yours.“

“Is it... Death? If I die... I lose this fate?"

"Of course, Xianle, that's why humans despise meaningless murder. Killing someone is taking someone's fate from them…”

“So, be it.“

Before Jun Wu could make sense of the words or of what he was seeing, FangXin was already cutting deep into Xie Lian's chest, the movement was so fast that the Emperor questioned the reality for a brief moment.

"It... It doesn't hurt... Enough..." Tears started to fall from Xie Lian eyes, blood trickling down his mouth while the black sword trembled in his flesh. “You have more than that. Let it all out, FangXin. I'll take it.“

Paralyzed by the shock, Jun Wu could only watch while the blade obeyed Xie Lian's wishes, letting a dark flow of resentment poison the wound. Almost immediately, the lifeless body reached the ground, in the exact same place where Wu Ming was dispersed hours ago.

It took a long moment for Jun Wu to recover from that scene. Once he did, he got close to the corpse, sighing and looking at it in disappointment.

“Pathetic child. After all my efforts to teach you, to carefully guide you... And in the end you just give your back to me? Taking your own life for a foolish soul? Useless brat.“ Jun Wu mumbled, kicking the corpse lightly, annoyed. “Or maybe my high expectations were, indeed, too high for you. What a shame.“

Turning around, the Emperor started to walk away, looking up.

“It was interesting, at least. So I guess Bai Wuxiang made his last victim, such a tragedy. This would be a good legend in a few decades... “ A soft, low murmuring made him stop.

Jun Wu looked back, seeing a small, barely there ghost fire floating away, a weak voice repeating a name with fervor, as if he would forget it if he stopped. The little flame didn't seem to notice his presence there, but the Emperor smiled at it, deciding to let it go.

“Always surprising me.“ Extending his hand, he made the corpse catch fire and, after a few moments, he manipulated the ashes into a small, simple golden ring. Putting it in his finger, Jun Wu took the only three things Xie Lian left behind: the sword, the hat and that curious spiritual device. After watching the little ghost disappear into the woods nearby, he turned to return to Heavens. “Let's see what will you do now, Crown Prince.“

Present Day

When the images left his brain and the hand on his face let him go, Hua Cheng could only see darkness. As a ghost, he didn't need to breathe, but now he just couldn't get enough air inside his lungs.

His whole body trembled and he couldn't recall when his knees reached the floor. The flame in his hand was gone and E-Ming was trembling as much as himself, being held by a limply hand.

“And he did surprised me. He entered the Kiln right after that, emerging as a Ghost King without any trouble. I even kept you in Heavens to provoke him into action, but look at all that needed to happen for him to finally make his move. Using his own past deputies to steal from me, so bold, really. He is always making me so pleased now. Had I known this, I would have guided him into being a Calamity for real since the beginning. He learns so much easily this way.“

Hua Cheng wasn't really listening to him. He absorbed the words, but he wasn't paying attention. The creature noticed that, of course.

“Poor, poor child you are.“ Bai Wuxiang's voice echoed inside the Kiln. “You took pride on your sacrifice, didn't you? You thought, all this centuries, that you helped His Highness. That you protected him, saved him. So naive, your choices not only killed him, but gave me the absolute power over his existence.“

Feeling his stomach turn, Hua Cheng was embraced sweetly, his face being pressed against a cold and silent chest. Only when the robes started to get damp that he noticed he was crying.

“For all this time, not only I had his ashes... I had his Wu Ming, too. I'm so grateful that you gave me all this, Hua Cheng. You are reckless, but such a good child. I can see why he loves you so much.“ The caress in his hair only made him sob harder, completely overwhelmed by the circumstances.

It was all his fault. His Highness was dead because of him. His Highness' ashes were in Bai Wuxiang's hands because of him. His Highness' suffered for eight hundred years because of him.

Before, Hua Cheng thought he was a failure, but he was so, so wrong. If he was a failure, he could change and get better until he wasn't that anymore. He could work hard everyday to evolve and please His Highness. It would be so easier if he was just incompetent, because he could fix that.

But Hua Cheng wasn't a failure.

He was a curse.

“Shhh, it's okay, child. You did good, so it's time for you to rest here. Let me take care of everything now.“

Hua Cheng felt miserable and defeated, unable to even try to deny him. And if he was able, he knew he wouldn't do it. Because Jun Wu held His Highness' existence hostage, in the shape of a golden ring.

Closing his eye, Hua Cheng held the white robes closely to him, letting himself cry more, in a desperate way. Bai Wuxiang kept shushing him like he was really a beloved child, holding him against his chest while caressing his hair. But inside his mind, Hua Cheng was steeling himself.

He needed to get that ring. That was the least he could do for...

The ground shook beneath them, startling both. After a blink, it shook again, stronger. And again, ever stronger than before. In a short time, a sound made itself present in the Kiln too, accompanied by the ground shaking more violently every single time.

Bang.

Bang.

Bang.

The sound was getting louder, too, until it was deafening and Bai Wuxiang started to laugh.

“He always surprises me.“

As soon as he said it, a fracture appeared in the Kiln's ceiling. After two more impacts, the whole thing collapsed. With the sudden light bathing the place, Hua Cheng was forced by the hand on his head to hide his face into the chest before him.

“Hello, Crown Prince."

"Fuck you. And you better get your filthy hands off my San Lang.“

Chapter Text

Hua Cheng couldn't move. The arms around him and the hand in his hair forced him to stay still. Of course, he could try to get away, but without knowing how Bai Wuxiang would react it was too dangerous. So he couldn't see His Highness, but by his voice, he wasn't that far away.

“So rude, Xianle. Didn't your parents teach you to respect others?"

"Did I stutter, bastard? Hands off him.“ Xie Lian was angry, in a controlled, resentful way. He was wary, Hua Cheng noticed. And he didn't need to ask why: Bai Wuxiang had Hua Cheng so close and he could do whatever pleases him faster than Xie Lian could do anything to prevent it.

He was being used by Bai Wuxiang to keep His Highness under control. He'd been used for that for eight hundred years, in fact.

“So selfish, I was comforting him in a very emotional situation.“

“Do I look like I'm interested in any of that bullshit?“

“Don't be like that, Xianle. I just wanted to help my...“

A third hand suddenly took Hua Cheng by the back of his neck. Bai Wuxiang arms trembled around him, a distinct crack making their strength ease. Hua Cheng could finally pull off that chest, looking up and blinking a couple of times, mesmerized.

Bai Wuxiang's mask crackled under Xie Lian's grip, gold mask gone, disgust and hate being the only emotions in his face.

But his touch on Hua Cheng's skin was careful and warm.

“I said hands off.“

The white mask broke and Bai Wuxiang jumped back, away from them and finally letting Hua Cheng go. Letting the white pieces fall to the ground, His Highness looked down, worried, and Hua Cheng immediately avoided his eyes, looking at his own trembling hands on his lap.

It was his fault.

All of this was his fault.

He cursed His Highness to a life of suffering and loneliness. He shouldn't be touched or looked in any kind way. He should be...

The same hand that destroyed Bai Wuxiang's mask was now taking him by the jawline, fingers pressing his cheeks slightly and making him look up to His Highness once more.

“Don't avoid my eyes.“ Xie Lian's voice didn't have room for a deny. It was an order and what could Hua Cheng do other then listening to him? “Whatever he told you, it doesn't matter. You are mine. And by my side you'll stay.“

“But..."

"Don't care. It's too late for you to decide to leave, because even if you run from me..." Xie Lian put his face right in front of him, staring at Hua Cheng in such heavy way, that he felt like his chest would burst anytime now. “I'll find you.“

Should that make Hua Cheng so happy? He really shouldn't.

"So naive, Your Highness. Don't you know by now that everyone...“

“Shut your mouth.“ Xie Lian didn't let the creature finish, staring at it with disgust while getting up. His body moved slightly at the side, and Hua Cheng couldn't see Bai Wuxiang anymore. Only red and white embroidered flowers before him. "You are all about teaching and how I don't learn, but you yourself are terrible at learning. I made it clear, more than once, that San Lang belongs to me and me alone. Everyone, in all realms, know that at this point. Even so, you dare touch him? Embrace him? And right in front of me? I knew you were mental, but I didn't know you were stupid too.“

“Xianle's tongue had really became sharp lately. But you shouldn't be so sure about other people's loyalty. I only need to use the right words and your dear Hua Cheng would obey me unconditionally. One look and he will leave you behind.“

The god wanted to retort, to say that was impossible, that he only ever obeyed and loved His Highness. But before he could open his mouth, his mind understood what the Calamity was saying.

The ring.

Was... Was that the plan all along? Tell him about His Highness' ashes and make Hua Cheng stay on his side, while keeping Xie Lian at bay with his beloved trapped between his fingers?

Hua Cheng would do anything to protect that ring... To protect His Highness' existence. Even if that forced him to follow a monster's order or give his back to the one he loved.

But Xie Lian didn't seem to care, laughing a bit at the situation.

“Is that supposed to be a threat? You used to be terrifying before, but now I hear nothing but empty barks.“

“Do you think I won't put him against you?"

"Oh, I know you would. The thing is: I wouldn't care to die under his hands.“ Calling E-Ming into his hold, Xie Lian started to approach the creature, slowly, smiling viciously. "I would let him trample and humiliate me, I would let him put a collar on my neck, I would let him use me as a weapon, I would follow him like a dog if he asked. And if he wanted my head in a silver plate... I would gladly give it to him.“

Hua Cheng didn't know how to react to such confession and even Bai Wuxiang was taken aback by the words, staring at Xie Lian as if he grew a second head.

“What are you..."

"Are you truly a Ghost King? He Xuan understood me so well, I thought this kind of twisted obsession was something inherent to us. And we are so alike, you and me.“ Xie Lian looked at E-Ming, caressing the blade with his fingertips, like he was bored of all this. “Well, I better say that making us alike was your goal, right? So why are you so surprised about my feelings?“

E-Ming suddenly cut the air while Xie Lian probed it, making himself comfortable with the blade, moving it at his will to be sure he could handle it. Eager to please, E-Ming adapted his weight and balance to fit His Highness' guidance, it's eye in a happy crescent moon.

Bai Wuxiang didn't move, looking at Xie Lian in displeasure.

“I did not teach you this kind of lowly behavior, Xianle. You were supposed to be...“

“Lonely and loveless, like you?“ Xie Lian laughed. "Oh, no, that would never happen. You gave up midway your fate, but I followed mine to it's fully potential. You and I can have the same past, but we are essentially different, Crown Prince of Wuyong.“

A clash between swords made Hua Cheng get up, alarmed. With fury burning in his eyes, the creature stared at Xie Lian. FangXin pressed E-Ming down, but the saber easily resisted the movement, it's eye spinning madly.

“Who told you that name?!“

“The one you couldn't keep at your side.“ FangXin exerted more force, but E-Ming didn't move. "Why are you so mad, Wuyong?"

“A slow minded, stubborn, infatuated brat like you could never understand."

"Oh, no, don't lie. It doesn't work with me anymore.“ The blades moved and clashed again a few times, Xie Lian moving around to meet every blow, nothing more than a smile in his face.

Hua Cheng wanted to go and help him, but he soon noticed it was better for him to stay still: His Highness was, intentionally, keeping Bai Wuxiang at a safe distance from him. He couldn't let himself be used against his god again, so he just observed the fight. He would intervene only if he saw something that could harm His Highness, even if he himself was feeling at edge with that dark blade so close to his beloved body...

But as His Highness kept provoking Bai Wuxiang, Hua Cheng noticed that something wasn't right. Xie Lian spent all those centuries afraid of Jun Wu, afraid of the powerful hold he had on his most precious things. But now, it looked like a mirror of their encounters in the past, with Xie Lian being the one to press and control the feelings of a confused and furious Bai Wuxiang.

What was happening?

“Such an incomplete and poor soul you are.“ Said Xie Lian, laughing. "What value does your rage hold against me, Wuyong? You were the one who gave up your destiny. You were the one who decided to live among ashes and blood. In the end of the day, you are the only one responsible for your pathetic fall. And, unlike me, you don't have anyone to blame.“

“I was abandoned! Left behind by those who promised me loyalty!“

“Were you loyal to them? When they spoke, have you heard the words? When they objected, have you considered their opinions? When they suffered, have you embraced and comforted them?“ Bai Wuxiang opened his mouth, but His Highness didn't let him answer. “Don't lie to me! I know you didn't! You were arrogant, selfish, pretentious, self-absorbed! I know, I was too!“

A stronger clash made both of them stumble back, but Xie Lian steady himself in the same second, while Bai Wuxiang had to put his hand on the wall for balance. They both panted, but only the creature seemed to be affected by His Highness' words.

“And I only realized my sins when I saw my Wuming taking the consequences in my place. When my Wuming died for my sake, I understood that I didn't deserve love, affection or loyalty just because I existed. No one is entitled to have others at their feet just because they are born, doesn't matter how good of a person they are or how good their intentions could be.“ Xie Lian relaxed his posture, taking a few steps back, until he felt Hua Cheng's body behind him. Instinctively, the god's hand touched his waist and Xie Lian smiled at that. “And that's our difference. You let yourself drown in self-pity, blaming the world and the universe for your fails. You denied yourself the chance to grow. But I didn't. You can't teach me anything, because you yourself didn't learn your lesson yet.“

Silence fell into the broken Kiln, Bai Wuxiang looking at the ground with a empty expression, his whole body trembling. Hua Cheng and Xie Lian knew better than relax before him, but the creature didn't surge ahead anymore.

Instead, his skin changed to the one Hua Cheng was used to see. The Emperor got up, correcting his posture while sighing.

“In the end, I was right.“ Looking at Xie Lian, he shook his head. “My expectations on you were too high. I'm deeply disappointed, Xianle, but I guess that's what you wanted anyway.“

As he said that, Jun Wu took the golden ring out of his finger and, in a swift move, tossed it in their direction, like it was a piece of trash he didn't see value to.

It would fall midway, Hua Cheng realized, his body immediately moving ahead to get to the ring, hands stretched and eyes focused in the ashes. And because of that, he didn't notice FangXin flying in his direction until it was directly before him, the ring between the blade and his hand.

If he avoided the sword, the ring would be destroyed by it. If he protected the ring, the sword would pierce his skull with ease. That wasn't a hard decision for Hua Cheng, who kept his eyes on the ring.

But it wasn't a hard decision for Xie Lian, either, his body colliding against Hua Cheng's. The god only had the time to notice, in horror, how his body was forced out of the ring and FangXin's way.

And, before he could even fall to the Kiln's ground, the sword perforated Xie Lian's chest, in the same place FangXin left his death scar before. The impact threw the Ghost King flying until he was pierced to the wall with a deep, pained growl.

The Emperor looked at him for an instant, before disappearing in thin air.

A long, long time ago, Hua Cheng had screamed while seeing his God suffer under that sword. But, now, he didn't even dare to breathe.

Cut in half, the golden pieces of a broken ring fell to Xie Lian's feet.

Chapter Text

When Mu Qing's consciousness returned to his body, he felt like someone was carrying him. Confused, he opened his eyes, but darkness was all that he could see, so he concluded he was still in the cell. So why was Feng Xin carrying him in his back?

And he knew that back belonged to Feng Xin. He wouldn't mistaken him for anyone in the world.

Noticing how the body behind him moved slightly, Feng Xin sighed.

“Thank Heavens, I thought you were out for real." He commented, starting to walk. Mu Qing tried to move his head, but it hurt, so he let it rest against Feng Xin's shoulder.

"What..."

“Shhh, it's okay. You did enough, let me take care of this."

Mu Qing didn't understand, but he wasn't in the mood to argue about that. So he just closed his eyes...

Wait, Feng Xin was walking all that time? How did he got them out the cell? And what about his broken arm?

"I'm still a god.“ Answered Feng Xin, as if he was capable of reading Mu Qing's mind. “It took a little more time than I expected, but after one crack, the wall easily fell off.“

"You… Broke the wall?"

“I'm not one of the strongest martial gods for my archery alone, you should know that.“

Mu Qing snorted, weakly. “Your punches barely hurt.“

“You can take me. That wall, in the other hand..." Mu Qing couldn't help but giggle a bit. “We are getting out of Heavens. We need to communicate with Hua Cheng about the situation and hide you from that freak.“

“I don't think that's necessary..."

“Don't care. If there is a possibility of him coming after you again, I want to avoid it." Feng Xin voice was serious, in a way Mu Qing only heard him talk when they were in difficult missions.

And Mu Qing felt his heart hurt. Feng Xin was pitying him and his stupid feelings, acting with him like that because he was too kind to admit his real thoughts about the subject.

But Mu Qing didn't had the time to complain because a light appeared in the corridor ahead. Feng Xin prepared his body for a fight, ready to take down whoever tried to stop them. And even with a useless Mu Qing in his back, he could probably fight a dozen of deputies with one hand alone.

“My Lords?"

The familiar, but at same time strange voice came from near the light. A mask was illuminated and they recognized it: the Waning Moon Officer.

Did His Highness send him? He knew what happened?

"We are here.“ Answered Feng Xin, walking to the light. "Did His Highness..."

“So you already know." Interrupted the officer. “Let's go. We are not safe here.“

“Shixiong.“ A fourth voice echoed in the corridor, making the Southern gods blink in confusion. Qi Ying? “The palace is empty. There's no one, but us here.“

"That can't be..."

“It can if the old man used clones as deputies.“ Answered Quan Yizhen, approaching the officer with a serious expression. "Just like Lord He Xuan did.“

“If that's true, he collected all the clones before going to the Mount. That's even worse…”

"Let's go, Shixiong. I don't like you being here.“

"Wait a second!" Interrupted Feng Xin. “Yin Yu?"

"My Lords, we really don't have the time for this now..." Yin Yu stopped for a moment, then he stared at them. “Lord Hua Cheng's ashes. Does any of you knows where he keeps them?“

“How could we know? That asshole doesn't trust anyone, but His Highness.“ Mu Qing rolled his eyes while answering. “And even if we knew, I'm sure it would be extremely difficult to get them...“

“I… I might have an idea.“ Six eyes focused on Feng Xin and he sighed. "It's not that difficult to guess once you know him.“

“I have known that dumbass for centuries and I have no idea."

“Because you are always trying to rationalize everything and Hua Cheng it's more emotional in those matters.“ Retorted the god, looking at the officer. "We need to get into Hua Cheng's palace."

“I'll take you there.“ And Yin Yu, in fact, took them there. Using the Earth Master's spiritual device, Yin Yu guided the three into tunnels and corridors under the Heaven's ground.

Mu Qing couldn't help but notice how well the banished god maneuvered the tool. Black Water Sinking Ships rarely used that spiritual device, probably for a lack of control over it, but Yin Yu didn't seem to have any issues. Definitely, he was right at the time Yin Yu was banished: his abilities were too valuable to lose like that. And His Highness might had noticed it too, if the rumors of the loyalty of Ghost Flower's assistant were true.

When they exited the tunnels, Mu Qing recognized the private training ground of Hua Cheng's Palace. And as soon as they emerged, the head deputy from the Palace appeared before them.

Lei Huo was, even among Hua Cheng's deputies, the most loyal, even when he was one of the few there who weren't married yet. But that only made him even more dedicated to his god, being recognized for his effort and intelligence. The bad thing was: Lei Huo was influential in all Heavens, trusted and respected for every deputy in Upper and Middle Court. And now, before him, were three gods (one of them with a clear shackle in his neck) and a masked unknown person.

They needed to persuade the man, concluded Mu Qing, while the deputy raise an eyebrow at them. If Lei Huo decided to expose them, he would have the power to do it, even against two powerful martial gods.

But Lei Huo only blinked twice, before staring at Yin Yu.

“I suppose you are the Waning Moon Officer, Ghost Flower's right hand.“

“I am. Please, excuse our intrusion in my Lord Hua Cheng's territory. We only need to verify an information, and we will be going...“

“Tell me. Should I be worried about the safety of my coworkers?" Lei Huo seemed calmed while talking. Hua Cheng really did a good choice with this one, uh?

Yin Yu looked at Mu Qing and Feng Xin, before nodding.

"Heavens is not a safe place anymore. I suggest you to evacuate and wait until the things are solved around here.“

“I'll send the warning to the rest of the palaces, as well. We were expecting this day to come. Our Lord's lover is a possessive creature, after all.“

“I'm deeply grateful for your help. You and your colleagues are welcome into my King's territory, but I suggest that other palaces take shelter on the human realm.“ With a nod, Lei Huo disappeared, only his shouts being heard in the Palace. Yin Yu sighed. “Really efficient, as expected from my Lord's palace.“

“Shixiong..."

"Don't start with that, Yizhen. You know better than start an argument now.“ Yin Yu signaled to Feng Xin to guide the way, following close. Quan Yizhen trailed behind them, pouting.

"You know you can change whatever you want in my palace, it's not my fault if you refuse to do it.“ Complained the god, making Mu Qing look back, curious.

"I won't change anything in there. It's your responsibility, not mine.“

"You say that, but are always helping and complaining.“

“And that's because it's your responsibility, Yizhen, I shouldn't be doing it.“

“Shixiong don't need to."

“If I don't, you let your work pile up to the point you won't have a single day off in weeks. We already talked about this and I wasn't even comparing anyone, you felt hurt by your own fault.“

" Shixiong...“

“Why are you two arguing like an old married couple?" Interrupted Feng Xin, making the exact same question Mu Qing had in mind.

“Because we are." Quan Yizhen answered, immediately. Both Southern God turned their head to him, stopping in front of Hua Cheng's bedroom. "Shixiong have been my spouse for one hundred forty nine years, six months, three weeks and two days.“

“You are always so eager to brag about that…" Yin Yu still had his mask in, but it was possible to notice his embarrassment from his voice alone.

“Heavens have more secrets than I thought.“ Murmured Feng Xin, opening the door and getting in with Mu Qing. But Yin Yu and Quan Yizhen didn't follow them.

“What are you two doing there? Waiting for permission?“ Asked Feng Xing, putting Mu Qing on the bed. The shackled god just let himself lie down, his body still recovering from the weight on his neck.

“In fact, yes.“ Yin Yu extended his hand to the threshold, but couldn't get it into the place. "We can't enter unless we have permission from the one who put the barrier.“

“We never even noticed the barrier..." Mu Qing remembered and then be snapped out of it. They didn't had the time to dwell on this prove of Hua Cheng's trust now. They would do that later. “Feng Xin.“

“Ah, yes, yes." Feng Xin went directly to the altar in a corner, being observed by the other three. Bowing, as if he was excusing himself, he took the small, but perfectly made statue. "A ghost's ashes is their ultimate weakness, so giving it to someone is an absolute act of devotion. Hua Cheng would only offer his ashes to one person.“

Even Mu Qing had to sit up when, without hesitation, Feng Xin threw the statue to the ground.

"What the fuck?!“

“Hua Cheng have access to the finest materials for his art, but the statue in his altar is not made of gold or marble. It's made of clay, painted by hand. I thought he had some faith reason for that, but it was because clay is easy to break." Feng Xin's eyes soon found what the were looking for. "And it's impossible to replace, because every handmade piece of clay is unique. If someone broke it or steal it, Hua Cheng would know that as soon as he set his eyes on the statue.“

“And with the barrier, he would know who stole it.“ Yin Yu completed, nodding. "Clever.“

“Well, I was right after all.“ Concluded Feng Xin, the silver ring in his hand. "With this, we can… Mu Qing? What's wrong?"

Panting and with a terrified expression, Mu Qing raised his hands to his neck. The black shackle started to change it's color to a deep, dark red, while shrinking bit by bit.

“The Emperor.“ Mumbled Yin Yu, and Quan Yizhen immediately turned around, his sword unsheathed and body ready to protect the place. “His Highness knows how to break those. We need to find him.“

“No.“ Mu Qing forced himself to answer, coughing a bit. Feng Xin took him from the bed, ignoring his protests while carrying him through the bedroom.

“Take us there, Yin Yu.“

“No. You can't... Stop, Feng Xin... “ Mu Qing grabbed a handful of Feng Xin's robes, his voice strangled. He was making a great effort to be able to talk, but was ignored again. Noticing how talking wouldn't be enough, he started to try to get out of Feng Xin's hold...

It didn't work. He had a strong body, but doing it without any spiritual power it was like throw a tantrum against a mountain. Useless.

“I lied.“ He finally said and that made Feng Xin stop to look at him. “You need to leave me here. He knows I lied and it's coming for me.“

“Don't start being stupid now. Lying is not reason enough to abandon you.“

“But this is.“ Mu Qing reached inside his robes and Feng Xin's eyes nearly fell from it sockets.

A gold, simple ring was resting in Mu Qing's palm.

“I gave him the fake one. I... Let you believe otherwise because I didn't know if he had some kind of way to hear us in the cell...“ Mu Qing coughed again, blood trickling down his chin. “Take the rings. Hide with them.“

“Mu Qing…”

“Don't argue with me now. Please, Feng Xin. Their existences are in your hands..." The gold ring was reunited with his silver counterpart and both of them were hid in Feng Xin's robes. The god couldn't move nor answer. The ground trembled under the palace and Mu Qing took Feng Xin's face into his hands. "The Emperor tried to end His Highness, Feng Xin. That's the only way he would know the ring was fake. Promise me. Promise me you will keep their ashes safe.“

“I…”

“Promise!"

“I can't..."

"You are the only one who can!" Screamed Mu Qing, coughing more blood, the shackles still strangling him. “Please... Feng Xin... Please, promise me..."

"I made an array that can be used only once, it's a safer option now." Yin Yu voiced from the corridor. “Jun Wu is too close to use the shovel, so we need to go before he blocks the way.“

Feng Xin stared at Mu Qing for a second, worried.

“He'll kill you.“

“Not until he gets what he wants.“ His voice started to fail him and Feng Xin made a pained expression at that. “You need to hide, and hide the rings with you.“

“Promise me you won't die."

"I..." Mu Qing took a deep breath. “I won't die.“

“So, I'll protect the rings.“ Promised Feng Xin, putting Mu Qing down with his back against the wall.

“My Lord, we need to go now." Called Yin Yu, holding the hand of a nervous Quan Yizhen. Feng Xin nodded and got up, walking to the array. But before he crossed it, he looked back at Mu Qing.

"Once all of this is over, I'll ask you out. So don't die on me.“

Alone in the corridor, Mu Qing smiled, his body relaxing once more. He didn't care about the steps approaching or the way the shackles were keeping him only a little bit away from suffocating.

His Highness' ashes were safe. Hua Cheng's ashes were safe. Feng Xin was out of the Emperor's reach. And that was all that mattered.

Chapter Text

Unable to move, Hua Cheng's eye didn't even blink, not a thought in his head, not a single muscle moving.

Was that the end? Finding His Highness only to lose him again, helplessly? After all that time, all that effort... Why was he so weak? He couldn't do anything, just like when he was a small ghost fire.

“FangXin, get out.“ Xie Lian's voice was low and slightly annoyed, and Hua Cheng couldn't make sense of the words.

He should pay attention, His Highness was talking, it was his lasts words, the last thing he would have until he could join His Highness in the nothingness...

“FANGXIN, GET OUT!“ The sudden yell made the god gasp, his body moving again. The black sword obeyed, trembling as it fell to the ground, afraid of the Ghost King's power.

Xie Lian sighed once he was free, the wound at his chest closing immediately. His robes were neat and perfectly fine when he knelt in front of a dumbstruck Hua Cheng.

What was happening?

“My dear, breathe.“ Hua Cheng obeyed and the ghost smiled sweetly, taking his beloved's face on his hands. “That's it. Keep breathing with me. Slow and constant, good work. I'm not gonna leave you, I'm staying here. At your side.“

“The... The ring...“

“The fake one, my dear. My ashes are finally safe. I'm not dispersing.“ Clarified Xie Lian and it took a few more reassurances for Hua Cheng to fully understand it. Only then, he felt his whole body collapse, relieved. His God was there to take him into warm and careful arms. Kissing his hair, His Highness embraced him. “I'm so sorry.“

“What for?" Answered Hua Cheng, face deep into his chest, voice still unstable. "Your Highness never...“

"I abandoned my sweet boy Hong Hong-er. I mistreated my brave young soldier Hong-er. I killed my loyal ghost Wuming. I left my devoted god Hua Cheng alone for such a long time… But not anymore, my dear. I will never leave you again. I promise you.“

The god looked up for a second and, without hesitation, he captured His Highness lips in a desperate kiss that ended with both of them panting in the Kiln's ground. Xie Lian not only accepted his touches and kisses, he actively touched and kissed him too, and what more could Hua Cheng ask for?

Ah, there was one thing.

“Gege, marry me." He blurted out, without thinking. Xie Lian's wide smile made his body feel energized.

"Nothing would make me more happy than being your husband, San Lang." The ghost sighed, content, his hands caressing the god's hair. Hua Cheng kissed him again, slowly this time, conveying in his lips all the emotions he couldn't put into words.

But then, he stopped. Xie Lian immediately tensed up beneath him, holding his shoulders and looking around worriedly. Sure that nothing was threatening them there, he looked back at the god.

“San Lang?“

“Someone has my ashes.“ He answered, murmuring like it was a secret.

Xie Lian controlled the anger that boiled his blood at hearing that someone else had his hands on his San Lang's ashes. Ashes that belonged to him since the beginning. Swallowing the harsh words of annoyance, Xie Lian focused on another aspect of the fact.

“How does it feel?“ He asked, observing Hua Cheng's confused expression.

“Uncomfortable, it is like having a soft grip inside me? I don't know how to describe this...“

“Does it hurt or makes you feel threatened?“

“No, it doesn't feel bad, exactly, just... Strange to have someone holding them close. It doesn't feel unsafe there.“

“So it was not Bai Wuxiang.“ Explained His Highness, relaxing a bit. "We can feel the intentions of the one holding our ashes. Bai Wuxiang had a distinct way to hold them, it feels like a shackle in some extent, because he is holding them to keep you in a tight leash. If you are not feeling unsafe, someone else might have gotten it...“

“So, we are both safe from him.“ Hua Cheng felt even more relieved, but His Highness shook his head.

“As long as he is alive, no one is safe.“ Xie Lian let himself caress his beloved face with utmost care. "I need to go.“

“I'll go with you, gege.“ The ghost opened his mouth to debate, but Hua Cheng didn't let him. "When I was a small child, His Highness saved my life when I fell to a certain death. I got older and His Highness saved my soul when he said I was not a monster. As a young soldier, His Highness saved my proud when he complimented my abilities. When I was a little ghost fire, His Highness saved my future when he freed me from a lamp. Even in his lowest, His Highness saved my existence when he gave me a name, letting me stay close to him when no one else could.“

“My Wuming..."

"I spent centuries growing, evolving, training... All of that for you. I dedicated all my life for you, Your Highness, so please. The only thing this believer needs is to be able to serve you and worship you for all days to come. I only need you."

The sincerity in Hua Cheng's eye and voice made Xie Lian sob, his arms embracing him tightly, face buried into his dark hair.

"And I only need you.“ Taking a deep breath, Xie Lian nodded. "Let's keep each other safe from now on, San Lang.“

“I like how that sounds, gege.“

They kissed again, letting themselves taste a little bit more of that calm atmosphere around them, but soon they needed to got up and prepare for the battle ahead.

Taking FangXin in his hand, Xie Lian sighed.

“This won't be easy, San Lang. So I need you to be at the top of your abilities today.“ A golden mask appeared on Xie Lian's face and Hua Cheng couldn't help but smile at him. "We'll hunt together. Like in the old days.“

.

.

.

"How about that, my sweet Xuan Zhen? Did that hurt?"

Mu Qing couldn't answer, his body unmoving in the Armory's floor. With teary eyes, he looked up at the weapons and, ah, he would do anything to be tortured with any of those, instead.

Maybe that way he would feel less dirty. Guilty. Hurt.

"He's just using you, Xuan Zhen. Your loyalty doesn't mean anything to him. What value does it hold, now?" A soft caress on his hair made Mu Qing tremble, terrified. Jun Wu was not the old, wise and dependable Emperor everyone thought.

Jun Wu was a greedy, hungry monster.

"His Highness... Trusted you..." He managed to say, trying to not sob.

"How are you any different from me? He trusted you too, but what did you do? Sealed his fate when you refused to stay by his side.“

The images were deep inside his brain now and Mu Qing was defeated by them, his tears finally spilling.

When the Emperor threatened to torture him if he didn't open his mouth to say where the rings were, Mu Qing expected to endure physical pain and maybe be stripped of his divinity as a punishment for not talking. He could take that.

He didn't expect for the Emperor revealing his true identity. Much less to be shown the consequences of his decision that day on the mountain, so many centuries ago.

It was his fault. If he was loyal, really loyal to His Highness, that scene... Oh, he was nauseated just to remember that bloody altar.

The caress didn't make it any easier to deal with. Jun Wu turned him around, looming over him, hands taking Mu Qing's face while he smiled softly.

“You already betrayed him before... If you stayed, he could be a god now. A good one, like he deserved to. And Hua Cheng's soul would be able to rest in peace knowing his God was fine, protected and in his rightful place…”

“Liar.“ Answered Mu Qing, spitting at his face. “You would never leave him alone. Even if that didn't happened, you would make his life a real hell anyway. I am at fault, but you are the real monster here.“

The Emperor whipped his face with elegant fingers and Mu Qing knew he wouldn't survive long. He would break his promise to Feng Xin, but really... Wasn't that the only outcome possible after he decided to steal His Highness' ashes?

But, suddenly, the monster above him got up, eyes focused on a wall, a satisfied smile in his lips.

One second later, something crossed the wall, destroying a part of the luxurious armory. Mu Qing looked at the object and... Wait. Was that a man?

“You arrived earlier than I thought, Your Highness.“ Said Jun Wu and Mu Qing made an effort in sitting up. The deputy had crossed three walls before getting in there, leaving a enormous hole in them. Through it, Mu Qing was able to see two red figures coming in their direction.

One of them fought with unmatched speed the Emperor's deputies, his movements familiar enough for Mu Qing to know who he was even before the silver scimitar was recognizable. Not even one was spared of his fury, blood falling like rain around him, painting the ground in a deep, brilliant red.

The other figure walked Heaven's streets like he owned the whole place, unbothered by the fights in front of him. He didn't need to, not with his loyal companion cleaning so efficiently the path for him that his feet never touched a corpse and not even a single drop of blood reached his robes.

The Emperor chuckled, but Mu Qing didn't look at him, mesmerized by the view.

“So, my sweet Xuan Zhen. How do I kill you to affect him the most?“

As if the shackled god would answer something like that! And even if he did answer, Jun Wu would not be able to hear his voice anyway. Not with all the weapons in the armory suddenly vibrating and falling from their places.

For a second, Mu Qing thought that Jun Wu would kill him with those, spearing his body until it was impossible to see more than flesh and blood. A mirror to what his decision made to His Highness that time... But by the Emperor's expression, he wasn't the one controlling the weapons.

In fact, the weapons weren't being controlled at all: it was only one weapon that started to destroy the whole place.

A long, white silk band trashed inside the armory and Mu Qing couldn't help but be surprised by its existence. He had entered that place sometimes before, but he never saw such a weapon there.

In the street, Ghost Flower took off his mask, smiling softly and raising one arm. His mouth moved, but Mu Qing was too far to understand what he said. But the weapon clearly understood, coming in Mu Qing's direction immediately.

Jun Wu didn't move, eyes focused on both figures while the white silk band surrounded Mu Qing and carried him out of there, flying.

In a blink, he was in warm, gentle arms.

“I'm glad to see you again too, Ruoye.“ His Highness voice was so close to Mu Qing ears now... If he looked up, he would probably see the face he missed so much for so long... “Did he touch you, Mu Qing?"

The question made the god paralyze and a single 'hmm' left His Highness lips.

"Your Highness.“ Hua Cheng's voice sounded near and Mu Qing looked at him for a second. “There's only one left.“

“Always so reliable, my dear. Let's end this, now. Ruoye, take Mu Qing somewhere safe and protect him."

“Wait!“ Gathering enough courage, Mu Qing looked at Xie Lian's face. And what he saw there broke his heart like nothing else and he couldn't do more than cry.

Such a sweet, loving stare shouldn't be directed at him.

"I'm sorry, Mu Qing. It looks like you need to talk to me, but I can't right now. It's not safe in here for you. So I promise, once all this is over, I'll find you.“

Another promise. Mu Qing looked down and decided to, at least, take off his chest what he wanted to say.

“I'm s... Sorry, Your H-Highness. I'm… sorry.“ He stuttered? Yes, but at least he said it.

“What for, Mu Qing?" Answered Xie Lian, genuinely confused. And confused was the way Mu Qing looked at him again. "Whatever it is, don't worry about that now. Worry about being safe.“

Putting Mu Qing sitting on the floor, Xie Lian ordered Ruoye again. While the white band encircled him, Mu Qing observed like Xie Lian looked around Heavens, breathing deeply.

"Oh, yes. This would definitely be useful to me.“

A low rumbling crossed the Heavens, damaging the ground, and a strong flow of dark energy started to escape from the cracks. The last thing Mu Qing saw before Ruoye was able to complete it's array was Hua Cheng smiling and taking a few steps backs, the dark cloud surrounding His Highness figure, accumulating around him.

Was that... Resentment energy? Why Heavens had so much of it?

Chapter Text

As the energy surrounded him, Xie Lian started to understand better it's origins. And, inside his head, a multitude of voices started to whisper and demand one single action from the one who awakened them.

Kill him.

Destroy him.

Execute him.

Slay him.

Stab him.

Curse him.

Damn him.

Behead him.

Kill him.

Kill him.

Kill him.

Kill him.

Kill him.

“Gege.“

The clear voice near him made Xie Lian open his eyes, the smile in his face sweet and soft. Ah, the energy was quite strong, difficult to manage. But it felt so familiar...

“I'll do it right this time, my Wuming.“ Hua Cheng raised an eyebrow, not sure of what that meant. Xie Lian took FangXin and pointed it down, to the ground.

Jun Wu understood immediately what was happening and, taking a sword from the ground, he attacked. But this time, Hua Cheng met him halfway, sabre and sword clashing loudly a few times.

After a specifically strong strike, Hua Cheng needed to take a few steps back, surprised by Jun Wu sudden actions. He was fighting for real now, closed expression and tensed body. And Hua Cheng only understood why he was so mad when, at his back, a sultry voice asked:

“Do you hate?"

Screams filled the air, the ground shook so violently the palaces started to fall. The resentment energy got even stronger and Jun Wu got even more dedicated to reach Xie Lian now.

Useless. Hua Cheng would die before letting him get close His Highness again.

“Come to my side.“ Ordered Xie Lian and, suddenly, the Heaven's ground started to disappear. Hua Cheng jumped back, taking a defensive stance beside Xie Lian, who caressed FangXin's blade. The sword absorbed the energy around them and Xie Lian laughed.

“Xianle's warriors resentment were strong enough to kill my Wuming, and to kill me too. So now I'm curious, Wuyong...“ The ghost stared at Jun Wu, who scowled at him. "How powerful is the resentment of the gods?"

Before Hua Cheng could even notice, Xie Lian struck, closing the distance with their enemy in a blink. Jun Wu sword broke in two and he himself flew away, tumbling against destroyed palaces. The floor shook once more, the dark cloud following Xie Lian like a loyal assistant.

Hua Cheng saw that before. His God in a Calamity skin, his hate and rage unstoppable and destructive. But this time, the target of his vengeful actions weren't innocent people dragged into a war. It was Bai Wuxiang, the one who should have been hated for all this time.

And, again, Hua Cheng couldn't help but worry about Xie Lian. He would never doubt His Highness strength and abilities, but... He was the one who faced direct impact of the resentment guided by FangXin last time. He knows how it feels, he knows how it hurts. Being devoured to the point of complete dissipation, his devotion being the only thread left to be followed back to this world. With His Highness making the same decisions again, he worried this could end up in a bad way once more.

Not for him, but if Jun Wu took the sword and manipulated the energy himself, he would be able to destroy His Highness' existence even without having his ashes. That could not happen.

E-Ming mirrored his determination, it's red eye focused on the fight ahead. Hua Cheng's dark eye did the same, his whole body prepared to react at any moment, but a small part of his mind wanted to simply admire his lover.

His Highness' former title never made so much sense than now.

The beauty and softness of the flowers present in every fluid movement, in the sway of his red robes, in the cadency of his steps, in the undulating locks of his hair.

The power and strength of the sword present in each strike, his body taut and his expression empty, nothing in his mind but the goal to be achieved by his hands.

It was a marvelous and terrific sight, one Hua Cheng would paint hundreds of times in the future.

Jun Wu was a exceptional fighter too. It didn't matter how many weapons Xie Lian broke with FangXin, Jun Wu switched to the next one and dominated it perfectly. He was an expert in every single one. Swords, spears, daggers, axes, guandaos, whips, bows, sabres, fans, chains... It didn't matter which one ended up in his hands, he maneuvered them with ease. And, in top of that, Jun Wu was silent.

Of course, His Highness didn't talk either, but Jun Wu liked to talk. Specially with Xie Lian. He loved to provoke His Highness, pulling strings he shouldn't pull, making his conclusions stray from the truth and messing with his mental stability. But now he was silent, serious and focused as Hua Cheng had never seen before.

This was dangerous, Hua Cheng knew that, but he could only observe the fight. It was too risky for him to interrupt or do something now, he didn't want to be a distraction or end up being used against his God once more. The worse scenario would be him being hit by FangXin on accident. That would, not only put His Highness in danger, but the people His Highness held dear too.

And, beneath their feet, Heavens trembled, it's grounds dissipating and turning into the growing cloud of spirits that followed Xie Lian. The only reason Hua Cheng could think to explain such event was sickening. No one knew how the last dynasty had ended, but if all that resentment was ingrained to the soil...

Had Jun Wu built Heavens with the corpses of those gods?

If it was true, all Heavens would collapse as soon as FangXin exhausted the resentment residing here. They needed to end up this fight before that and get out of there.

The unstable ground helped Xie Lian this time, his opponent distracted enough by a misstep to a fine, small cut be delivered on his right cheek.

Jun Wu scream were louder than the rumbling of shattering palaces. Covering his face with his hands, he tumbled back and, then, he disappeared.

“What the..."

"He retreated.“ Explained Xie Lian, relaxing and sighing. “Heavens is his territory as a god, so his power is connected to this place. As it falls apart, he gets affected too.“

Hua Cheng approached him, receiving a sweet peck on his lips. The way Xie Lian changed his stance every time they were close made Hua Cheng a little sheepish.

“Do we know where's he'd go?"

"He probably returned to Mount Tong'Lu. That's his territory as a Calamity... San Lang looked so pretty fighting those clones.“ The sudden change of subject made Hua Cheng blink twice before feeling the heat crippling up his cheeks.

"Gege..."

“What happened, San Lang? Can't I compliment my dear fiancé?“

“Gege is being flirty again..." He smiled, but then the rumbling around worsened. Xie Lian laughed a bit at the frustration on Hua Cheng's face.

"Don't worry, my dear. We'll have a long time ahead to be together without interruptions.“

“Is gege so sure he will win?"

“You heard him scream by a single cut, right? All I need is to stab him once. This spirits will end the job.“ Hua Cheng nodded, worried, and Xie Lian touched his face. "That won't happen again, my dear. This time I won't give any second chances to my prey. I'll kill him, it's a promise.“

The god nodded again, feeling the ground collapse beneath them.

"This will reach the human realm, gege.“

“Tell those useless gods to take care of this. If they complain, you can say that is their job and I'll personally hunt anyone who didn't work today.“

Hua Cheng immediately passed the message to his head deputy, the conversation being short, with only the essential information being communicated while His Highness summoned some flower petals at his feet.

“Gege, my palace is taking shelter on QianDeng temple, by Waning Moon Officer's suggestion. It seems like he was the one who warned everyone to leave.“

“Yin Yu is always so reliable. I might think in a good gift for him when this is over.“

“Other gods are sheltered in their own Temples, but I suppose they will get here soon.“

“Thank you, my San Lang.“ Xie Lian closed the distance between them and smiled. “Let's end this.“

Hua Cheng nodded, petals raining around them. Soon, the destroyed streets were replaced by an enclosed space, filled with the pungent odor of something rotten and... Burning meat?

The stones at their feet were warm, making a unstable path ahead, and they needed only a few seconds to notice they were on a bridge. Beneath them, a lava's river flowing along desperate, resentful souls. Their screams echoed into the space they were and Hua Cheng had to walk close to His Highness to be able to hear him.

“Gege, where's he?"

"Ahead. Stay cautious, San Lang. The bridge might collapse at any moment. And falling into the lava will not be a good experience." Looking down at a hole in the ground, he sighted. “Poor souls. Trapped inside here for so long.“

“I don't understand their language, gege. Maybe they are from Wuyong?"

“They are from there, yes.“ Hua Cheng took his God's hand, helping him navigate the unstable bridge.

“Just the volcano wouldn't be enough to trap of them here, gege. Even if it was a big nation, it's not natural that so many souls had remained in pure resentment of a natural disaster.“

“That probably was Jun Wu's fault. If he promised to save them all and they believed in him fully, they probably didn't make any effort to avoid the eruption. Jun Wu failed to save them, so their faith was betrayed and their fate sealed by him... Such a misery.“

“But it was their fault too, gege.“ Xie Lian looked at him, raising an eyebrow. “If Mei NianQing was telling the truth... Those people put their fates in the hands of a newly ascended god, one who was barely an adult. It's cruel and stupid to put such a weight on only one person and simply ignore other possibilities.“

“San Lang is a devoted man, who understands faith much better than most people do, because they don't see godhood by what it is. They see it by what their gods let them know. Have you seen a god show their weaknesses to their followers? Their failures? Their needs and flaws? Is there a god who is truly honest with the ones devoted to him?“

Xie Lian stopped, turning to look at Hua Cheng, his serious expression making the god feel the need to sit down and be lectured like a child. Instead, he just smiled a bit, knowing the answer to that question.

“You.“

“I am no god.“ He replied. “I haven't been one for a long time and I don't want to be one again. I'm a Ghost King, the Lord of Ghost City, one of the Four Great Calamities. That's who I am.“

“His Highness is my only God.“

“Always and only for you, San Lang.“ Xie Lian admitted squeezing his hands. "You are the only believer I want. Mine and mine only.“

“Gege…” His question was interrupted by his God suddenly turning his back to him, body tense, FangXin in hands.

Hua Cheng knew who was approaching them before he actually saw the White Clothed Calamity's ominous presence. This time, he wasn't using a mask: he didn't need to hide his identity anymore.

"Xianle.“

“Wuyong.“

“It seems like you have something that belongs to me, child.“ A pale hand pointed at Xie Lian's side, the other holding a silvery sword Hua Cheng never saw before. Why did it look so familiar? "ZhuXin* is mine.“

“ZhuXin? Oh, are you talking about FangXin?"

“That's the name you gave to it? You are no good with names, Xianle.“ Xie Lian giggled, amused, his personality taking a distinct turn from what it was with Hua Cheng and the god finally understood His Highness words.

For Hua Cheng, Xie Lian will always be his God.

To everyone else, Xie Lian will always be a Ghost King.

Hua Cheng loved both.

“Don't worry about it, Wuyong. I intended to give FangXin back to you since the beginning.“ Confidence pouring from his movements, Xie Lian started to walk to the other Calamity, smug smile in his face. “I'm sure you wouldn't care to use your body as a sheath for it, right?"

Jun Wu surged in their direction, making Hua Cheng react at the same moment. As soon as the blades clashed once, Hua Cheng smiled, opening His Highness' private communication array.

'Gege. This sword is stronger, but doesn't belong to him. Too light and delicate for that.'

'Only FangXin is his, San Lang.'

'But he used the weapons at the armory without any problems, didn't he? He's good with this one, but the hold doesn't feel appropriate. It feels more like... When gege uses E-Ming.' The mentioned sabre suddenly emanated a wicked aura and Hua Cheng expression got bitter, finally noticing why the sword was familiar to him. 'Gege, this is FangXin's counterpart.'

In fact, the sword had the same constitution as FangXin, but smaller and slimmer than the dark sword. A fine black line decorated the blade, mirroring the silver line in FangXin. The resemblance made E-Ming more vicious in it's attacks, vibrating against the sword on each clash, trying to damage the weapon.

Looking for a opening, Xie Lian relaxed posture changed behind Hua Cheng and he joined the fight in one swift movement, FangXin and E-Ming clashing against the new sword together and sending it's wielder a few steps back.

FangXin clearly disliked it's actual position, trembling displeased in Xie Lian's hold for a brief second. But it didn't had any choice but to obey Xie Lian, even if only because he was the one controlling the resentment on it. If the sword took such weight alone, it would certainly break.

It's counterpart didn't like being put against it, trembling in Jun Wu's hand too.

“Still, ShuXin*.“ The blade immediately obeyed the order and Xie Lian smiled at the next strike. Hua Cheng jumped back, waiting for a new opportunity to enter the battle again.

“Your fear of loneliness is showing itself, Wuyong. Even your sword has a companion.“

“Big words for someone who never even had a sword.“

“I may have no sword, but I am loved. And you, Wuyong? Where are the ones who loved you? Oh, no, wait. I know where they are! You killed them.“

“They left me! I did everything for them, I sacrificed everything I had for them and they all left me when I couldn't be useful anymore!" Screamed the creature, but the red clothed Calamity only laughed at him, the fight keeping Hua Cheng on edge. He couldn't enter... Once out, he couldn't find a way back.

"You betrayed them. All of them. It's your fault, Wuyong, always have been. And even if you erase them from history itself...“ Holding his stance and staring at Jun Wu, Xie Lian whispered. "Their souls still hate you.“

With a sudden blast, Xie Lian was sent flying back, his body colliding with Hua Cheng in the way. Both rolled in the ground, unable to stop. E-Ming sinking into the bridge's stones was the only thing that kept them from falling into the river beneath them.

Hua Cheng looked up, worried about how vulnerable they were, prepared to throw His Highness out of the way if they were under attack, but Jun Wu didn't approach them. Well, Jun Wu was paralyzed, looking down with a strange expression.

Between them, a young looking man was getting up, mumbling while dusting his purple clothes.

“Disrespectful child, you are. Throwing this old man around like a ragdoll, don't you have any care for your elders?“ The immortal looked at Hua Cheng and Xie Lian in the ground, raising an eyebrow. “What are you doing there, embracing each other in public? Don't you have any shame? Kids this days are so..."

"Mei NianQing?"

The immortal froze. Slowly, he turned around, staring at Jun Wu as if he had seen a ghost. Like it was impossible for him to see the man again.

“Your... Highness..."

Hua Cheng sat up, helping Xie Lian sit at his side, both of them looking curiously at the scene before them. Jun Wu's face changed, his expression now bitter, making Mei NianQing flinch slightly.

"Out of the way."

“Your Highness...“

“Don't make me repeat myself.“ Jun Wu walked in his direction, but the immortal didn't bulge. When only a few inches separated them, Jun Wu raised an eyebrow. “So, you are beside them again. Not surprised.“

“No, that's...“

"No? What 'no'?" They stared at each other for a few seconds. “You disappoint me. You are not able to stop me like you want, but are too coward to make a move.“

“My dear Highness, I..." A hand on his throat interrupted Mei NianQing.

"Don't call me that. You have no right to call me that again. You lost that right two thousand years ago.“

"I…” Mei NianQing sighed, body relaxed. Defeated. “You are right.“

The phrase effectively confused Jun Wu.

"Am I?"

“I avoided my responsibilities as your advisor. I was scared to contradict you and upset you. I didn't want to make you feel like you were wrong in your beliefs and I let you make avoidable mistakes. I knew so much, but I didn't guide you like I should. Turning a blind eye to your battles only hurt you more.“ Taking a deep breath, Mei NianQing kept talking."I have missed you so much and I have been so unjust with you and… I'm sorry.“

“Two thousand years, Mei NianQing." Answered Jun Wu, his grip stronger at each word he said. “In all this time, you talked to me once, only to try to defend that disobedient brat, and I never heard of you again. So tell me: where have you been all this time? If this are your true feelings, why you left me alone for so long?!“

“My dear...“

“Answer!"

"I..."

A red figure suddenly appeared behind Jun Wu, Mei NianQing and Hua Cheng noticing it at the same time. With FangXin in position, a victorious smile in his lips and eyes focused on his target, Xie Lian used a part of the bridge to help him surge ahead with the speed of a lightning.

The sword pierced through flesh and the spirits inside FangXin yelled in satisfaction. Their revenge will finally be served! The dark aura started to grow around Xie Lian, voices celebrating their victory.

But Hua Cheng felt his entire being shake, the reality before his eyes was undeniable and all he wanted to do was to take His Highness and run from there. But his body still couldn't believe it, paralyzed.

“You fool...“ Murmured Xie Lian, forcing FangXin even deeper.

Looking up, Jun Wu was speechless. The soft, smile directed at him trembled a bit, blood staining white perfect teeth and painting the light skin and the purple robes with a vibrant, deep red.

“Maybe I am a fool..." Said Mei NianQing, looking into his disciple's eyes, pain making him grunt.

"Do you have any idea of what you did?" Asked the Calamity, rage boiling in his veins. “Are you conscious that you doomed us all?“

“Wouldn't you do the same... For your Hua Cheng?" Provoked the immortal and the blade trembled in Xie Lian's hold.

"Never.“ The answer surprised Mei NianQing, but soon he saw the wicked, vicious smile on the once pure Crown Prince of Xianle. “Because I wouldn't let things come this far. If my dear San Lang wanted to destroy the world, I would happily burn it down with him. You are truly a coward, Mei NianQing. And your death is just the conclusion of your blind and weak love.“

The immortal blinked once, before looking down at Jun Wu. And the smile at his face turned even more lovely.

“Don't be afraid, my dear Highness... I will not be a coward anymore.“

Jun Wu opened his lips to answer, but an abrupt wave of energy interrupted him, throwing him back. Xie Lian flew away, too, but firm arms held him before he fell into the ground. Bracing themselves, Hua Cheng and Xie Lian could only watch the resentment in FangXin get out of control, consuming the one pierced by the blade.

If Xie Lian wasn't in Hua Cheng's arms, he would probably believe he returned to that terrible day on Lang Er Bay, when he lost his Wuming in the exact same way.

For a long time, only screams were heard, the dark cloud enveloping Mei NianQing's body, taking him apart piece by piece, until not even a lock of hair existed anymore. And when FangXin fell to the ground, it shattered, leaving only a sinister silence on the bridge.

Hua Cheng was the first one to recover. Taking His Highness's hand, he sheathed E-Ming and started to walk.

“San Lang?"

"We have to go now, gege, before that bastard recovers from the shock.“

“Go…” Xie Lian stopped, looking at the god helplessly. “Where?"

“Anywhere, gege. We need to hide and think of a new plan before facing Jun Wu again.“

“Hide? We... We don't have anywhere to hide, San Lang. It's over.“

“It's not! We'll think on another plan and we will defeat him, I know we will!" Hua Cheng took the Ghost King's hands, staring at him. "I know you can defeat him, Your Highness. We just need more time.“

“We don't have time anymore, I said it, didn't I? Mei NianQing condemned us.“

"We'll find another way, Your Highness.“

“There's not other way!" Screamed Xie Lian, tears flowing down his cheeks. “The resentment of the gods was the only thing strong enough to kill that bastard! What in this world could be stronger than...?"

Xie Lian stopped. Blinked once. Twice. Then, he smiled weakly.

“Gege?"

“What would I do without you? You are so clever, my dear San Lang." Getting closer, Xie Lian tiptoed to be able to kiss Hua Cheng's lips, arms embracing his neck to deepen the contact. The sudden charge confused Hua Cheng enough for him not to notice His Highness' plan.

When he did, it was too late. His spiritual energy was blocked, his entire body falling without control, the enchantment on his back making it impossible to move. Xie Lian held him, giving his face small pecks and sweet kisses while making him lay down on a secure part of the bridge.

“I love you, my dear San Lang. Wait for me, yes?"

"It's your fault.“ A low, growling voice made Xie Lian got up, Hua Cheng able to only watch as His Highness walked in the direction of a mad man.

"Oh, no, Wuyong. Haven't I told you before? This was your fault, since the beginning.“

"You killed him!" Accused Jun Wu, closing his fists.

“You made me like this. So it is your fa...“

“I don't care. You'll regret it anyway.“ Jumping forward, Jun Wu attacked Xie Lian with bare fists. His Highness defended the blow with ease.

“Let's end this, Wuyong.“ Swords forgotten and only hate fueling them, both Calamities faced each other.

As desperation soaked Hua Cheng's bones, the bridge shook violently under the intense fight. The mountain itself felt the magnitude of their powers, the aftershock making the earth tremble.

Incapable of breaking the spell on his back, forced to wait until it wear out on it's own, Hua Cheng did the only thing he was able to do: he prayed.

He prayed fervently and for the first time in a long time, he asked for something.

Please, Your Highness, don't die.

He should have know, deep down in his soul, that he didn't deserve to ask for something. And he didn't deserved to have his desires listened to, was the only conclusion Hua Cheng's spirit could think of when he saw Xie Lian being held up by the throat, feet dangling on the bridge's edge.

Bloodied, panting, obviously tired of the fight, Jun Wu held Xie Lian up with both hands. Suffocating, the Ghost King wasn't in any better state.

“I'll destroy everything you love.“ Swore Jun Wu. “But I'll keep your Hua Cheng alive. Your souls would never reunite again.“

“Oh, Wuyong.“ Xie Lian's voice was weak, but he smiled. “You can compete with my strength. But there's something in me you would never be able to defeat... My obsession.“ Opening his arms and closing his eyes, Xie Lian used all his breath to shout out. “DO YOU HATE?“

The souls trapped in the lava screamed. Jun Wu immediately released him, but Xie Lian's hands grabbed him by the face.

“Stop! Get off me! Get off! Get off!“ Using all his strength against Xie Lian wasn't enough to break free from his grip.

“COME TO MY SIDE! AND TAKE REVENGE ON THE ONE WHO DESERVES IT!"

"You are fucking insane! You don't even have a sword to guide them!"

“I don't need one, my own resentment will do that.“

Spirits swarmed up from the river, screaming. Hungry, they were hungry for revenge. Xie Lian had called them and they will be avenged. And, this time, there was no one to save Jun Wu from the resentment that came down to eat him.

“STOP! IT HURTS! IT HURTS! IT HURTS!“ With Xie Lian holding him down and the resentment flowing through the Crown Prince of Xianle's body to reach his own, Jun Wu couldn't do more than scream in deep agony.

“Have fun in hell.“ Whispered the red calamity, smiling.

After a endless time, the dark cloud finally dispersed, Jun Wu existence completely devoured by the soul of his people...

Petrified, Hua Cheng observed as His Highness fell, triumphant, wounded and unconscious, into the lava.

Chapter Text

Long moments passed, Hua Cheng's eye focused on the point he last saw His Highness. So much happened and so fast... His mind still couldn't believe how that day ended.

It wasn't true, right? His Highness... He was fine this time again, wasn't he? Just like earlier in the Kiln, His Highness was safe and was just taking his time to rest before coming back to him. He wanted so much to believe that, but he didn't dare to pray for it.

Even if the red knot in his finger told him to believe, it was too hard to do it. What if the spiritual device wasn't working properly? What if the fact that His Highness was a ghost when he got the knot made it malfunction?

His Highness had so many promises to fulfill yet, so many people to see and so much to do. He couldn't be really dead this time. It... It couldn't be...

Lost with his own devices, he didn't notice the steps approaching.

“Such a mess.“ A dark clothed man walked beside him, going near the edge of the bridge and taking a look at the lava's river. “Taking all the burden alone once more. Will you ever change, Lian-ge?“

He Xuan sighed, looking around and spotting a silvery sword. ShuXin trembled on his hands and the Calamity just threw it into the river, muttering a 'useless now' while walking to the god laying down. One look and he knew exactly what happened.

“Here, let me help you.“ Hua Cheng felt the weight of the spell lift from his back, but he wasn't able to move properly yet. With He Xuan helping him stand, the god looked at the ground. “I'll take you to Ghost City, I'm sure Lian-ge would like to know you've been living in his home in his absence.“

Hua Cheng's head shot up, confused about the phrasing, and He Xuan just sighed, tired.

“You really don't know how much Lian-ge loves you, do you?“

“Of course I do.“ Retorted Hua Cheng, but the ghost shook it's head.

“He didn't showed you the garden yet, did he?" The confused expression on Hua Cheng's face was enough answer. “I don't know if he planned to show it to you in the future, but… Well, he isn't here to stop me, anyway.“

Helping Hua Cheng walk, the Calamity guided him to a wall nearby. With his other hand, He Xuan made a simple array and, as soon as they stepped inside, Hua Cheng blinked to the sudden change of light.

The yellowish light from the lava was replaced for a soft white light and now a flowery fragrance floated around them. They were deep inside a cave, but the light didn't come from any torch or candle; it came from the flowers.

In the middle of a endless sea of white, glowing flowers, Hua Cheng felt peace. Deep in his bones, he felt a very singular kind of peace. Even if it confused him, he was comfortable here, enough to want to lay down and finally rest.

How outrageous, wanting to rest after all His Highness did...

He Xuan kept walking and, only then, Hua Cheng seemed to took in his surroundings a bit more attentively, noticing more than just how the flowers moved away from them, making a path. Like they didn't want to be trampled by them.

“How?" He asked, looking at the cave ceiling. Without sunlight and water, it should be impossible for this flowers to grow.

"Lian-ge keeps them alive with his spiritual power. All the corridors and caves here were made by him. He knows exactly when and where a new flower grows, not a single one goes unattended.“

"He doesn't controls them?"

“No, just keeps them. This is where you can find him when he's not in Ghost City or hunting.“ He Xuan took a turn and, exactly like he said, more flowers appeared. Looking closely at the flowers, something came to Hua Cheng's mind, his body relaxing.

"His Highness will come back.“

"Of course he will.“ Rolling his eyes, He Xuan let go of him, walking ahead a bit annoyed. “He probably used too much energy in the fight and wasn't able to keep the garden and a corporeal form at the same time.“

"He... Chose the garden?" The god observed how the Calamity stopped in front of a cave entrance.

“Naturally. He committed a sin, long ago. This is how he ensures he would not repeat it.“ He Xuan pointed to the cave and Hua Cheng entered, curious.

In the middle of the flowers, was a statue depicting a young soldier with dark robes and a high ponytail, down on one knee. His white smiling mask looked ahead, a hand on his chest and the other holding a small, trampled and dirty white flower.

It couldn't be... The flower Wuming gave His Highness, right?

“It is.“ Answered He Xuan, from the entrance, and Hua Cheng noticed he asked it aloud. “Lian-ge rejected his Wuming's flower once. He swore to never reject his flowers again.“

“All... All this flowers..."

"Came from you. Every time you offer a flower to him, an identical flower grows in this garden. This was the first thing he did after leaving the Kiln and hearing your prays.“ The Calamity smiled softly. “You offered him such a deep, unwavering devotion, Hua Cheng. What else could Xie Lian do if not venerate you?“

.

.

.

In the third week of wait, Hua Cheng left the garden, appearing in Ghost City. He was received with joy, the ghosts cheering on him and his deputies proud for his actions. Even if he was less responsive than usual and his expression seemed to be a little lost, they all knew better than to point that out.

“So after we finally cleaned all up, the Upper Court gods decided to wait for their saviors before taking any decision about the future of Heavens.“ Explained Lei Huo, walking on the busy streets near Hua Cheng.

“So they'll have to wait for His Highness' return. He was the one to defeat the Emperor.“

“They expect for our palace to take charge, my Lord.“ Hua Cheng sighed and the deputy couldn't help but do it too. “Lord Nan Yang was able to convince everyone to wait and adapt temporarily, to give my Lord and His Highness time to recover before bothering you with such matters.“

“They only care about themselves. Useless trash… Have someone skipped their work?“

“No, my Lord. In fact, they worked more efficiently than ever. But I guess they just want to get on His Highness' good side, now that he has so much power...“

“Oh, look at who's here! My Lord, welcome back.“ A feminine voice called their attention. In pink, delicate embroidered robes, Meili approached. This time, she was followed by a few little kids giggling and chatting around her. “I'm glad to see you once more.“

“Xiao Meili.“ Greeted Hua Cheng, smiling a bit. Seeing Meili made him remember how loved His Highness was, so he made an effort to be respectful with his citizens. "I see you've been busy.“

"Pleasing His Highness is an honor, my Lord. And guiding this little ghosts it's not a hard work for me… Huo-er, how are things going on in the temple?" Hua Cheng looked at his deputy, with a blank expression, but the man knew his god enough to know what to expect from that face.

"Everyone is grateful to His Highness for letting us stay, so we worked hard to adapt as soon as possible. We are already working on prayers and reports, as usual.“

"Wonderful! They all looked so lost when they arrived, my Lord, I couldn't help but lend them a hand. But they were so fast in learning the rules around here, specially my Huo-er, so efficient!“ Meili commented, proud in her voice. "Hopefully, that will please His Highness when he arrives too… Hey! Stay away from my kids, stupid pighead!"

The maiden rushed away from them, starting an argument with another ghost while defending the little ones in her care. Lei Huo stared at her for a moment, like he was trying to decide something.

Hua Cheng couldn't help but smile.

"I only needed one glimpse at His Highness to know that my entire existence would belong to him.“ He put one hand on his deputy shoulder. "All my deputies felt the same with their destined ones. They follow me, but devote themselves to no one else but their lovers, just like I do.“

Lei Huo expression relaxed and he made a quick reverence.

"If you excuse me, my Lord.“ Hua Cheng nodded, observing his deputy march to defend Meili.

Like it should be, he thought. One should always protect and defend the most important person in their lives.

.

.

.

In the fourth month, Hua Cheng left the garden once more to check on his deputies. Unsurprisingly, for him, they were taking excellent care of their duties, not a single prayer going unheard and all reports filled in the way Hua Cheng liked the most: detailed, but without any roundabouts.

While reading one report, he frowned.

“Li Lan.” He called, the woman looking up from her table near him. “I'm aware we have been helping other palaces with eventual needs, but this might be the ninth report about General Xuan Zhen's Palace. Had something happened there?“

“Lord Xuan Zhen is missing.“ The answer surprised him. "No one can contact him since the late Emperor's incident.“

“That's weird. His Highness' spiritual device was told to take him somewhere safe. I assumed it would be his home.“

“I'm afraid not, my Lord. Rumors about his death started a few days after the incident, but General Nan Yang was so sure of the contrary that the followers now believe their god is healing in a peaceful hidden place.“

That wasn't typical from Mu Qing. The man was obsessed with his duties and would probably keep working even if the lost a couple of limbs. Besides, he wasn't too injured when His Highness rescued him from the bastard...

The memory made him understand the situation immediately.

It wasn't about “healing”. It was about that hideous cursed shackle on his neck. Mu Qing cared too much about his image and, even if everyone knew about Jun Wu real identity, lesser gods would surely start rumors about his dignity or capacities.

“Is there some clue of where he is?"

"I haven't heard about one, but if my Lord gives me permission to speculate...“ Hua Cheng nodded, interested. Li Lan wasn't someone who would speculate without good reason, it might be useful to know her input. “I think General Nan Yang knows where he is. General Qi Ying told everyone what happened in Heavens when he infiltrated with the Waning Moon Officer, so we know he left General Xuan Zhen behind only after a discussion about His Highness' safety. You might expect him to be extra worried after such a time without news from General Xuan Zhen, but he's the same as always.“

That would make sense.

“I'll talk with him. Is there something else that needs my attention here?"

"Only Lei Huo's request, my Lord.“ Li Lan smiled at him, happily. “He's asking for a vacation. He'll marry in two months. Everyone was taken by surprise, his special one was a ghost all along. She's adorable, that Meili. Carefree, she will be a good wife to him.“

“I expected that news. Grant him a decade, as always.“

“Of course, my Lord.“

Hua Cheng left the temple and he didn't need to go so far to find who he was looking for. Holding a meeting in Paradise Manor, Feng Xin was really close to punch a heavenly official. Sighing, Hua Cheng just walked straight to BanYue. She got up from the throne, making a reverence.

“My Lord! What a surprise seeing you here! I didn't expect you to return so quickly.“

“I haven't returned yet, I'm only here to solve a few things within my palace... What's going on here?"

"Lord Hua Cheng! As the god of justice, you will surely be able to convince General Nan Yang that his hopes are futile.“ Hua Cheng raised an eyebrow, confused. “General Xuan Zhen is probably dead at this point, so what's so wrong with me inviting some of his deputies to come and work for me?“

“He's not dead!"

"We haven't seen the man for the last months! If he's not dead, he abandoned his duties as a god in such dire situation and should be punished accordingly. Don't you think so, my Lord?"

Hua Cheng blinked at him a few times.

“Who are you again?" He asked, even if he knew exactly who that was.

"I..." The giggles around the place made him a bit embarrassed, but he recovered fast. “I'm Bai Kao, my Lord.“

“Your name is not unfamiliar... Oh, yes! You are the one who told Jun Wu how I was a coward and that I gave my back to my responsibilities when I didn't attack Blood Covering Ghost Flower in Xuan Ji's case, right?“ The minor god paralyzed. "No, I'm not going to convince anyone for you, a lowly trash that tries to steal from the ones you go around badmouthing. And General Xuan Zhen is not dead. Haven't you heard? He's taking care of his health.“

“My Lord couldn't possible believe such nonsense!“

“His Highness, the Ghost King Blood Covering Ghost Flower, was the one who sent him to hide and rest after rescuing him. So it's not a 'nonsense'.“ He looked at BanYue, annoyed. "Why is this trash walking around one of His Highness' residences?"

“If I knew he was here for such a motive, I would never let him inside.“ With a flick of her hand, a few ghosts entered the place, making everyone leave, except Feng Xin, who approached them in silence. “Baba was really reckless again, he knows I'm not good with this mayor thing. I'm lucky to have Yin Yu, otherwise those useless gods would have destroyed the place already!“

“BanYue, that was insensitive...“ Warned Feng Xin.

“How so? Don't tell me you two don't believe he'll come back?" She laughed a bit. “Baba will be back sooner than you think. I've known a lot of ghosts but no one, not even shufu, is attached to this realm like baba.“

The princess walked off to meet Pei Xiu and Feng Xin sighed.

"Where's Mu Qing?" Hua Cheng asked.

“I can't tell you.“ That answer surprised him. “He's protecting both rings with your ashes and he promised to give them back to His Highness and His Highness only.“

“So he's hiding with His Highness' ashes and you want me to simply let him?“ Anger started to boil in Hua Cheng's veins, the loss fueling the sentiment. "Why would I trust him after..."

“Mu Qing was ready to die on that asshole's hands to protect His Highness, so don't you dare mistrust him.“ Feng Xin interrupted him, glaring at Hua Cheng and nearly growling at his face. “And I don't know what Jun Wu did to torture something out of Mu Qing, but it was bad enough for him to cry on me for hours when I found him. Cry, Hua Cheng. On me. Can you imagine that?“

“Do you think I care?"

"Fuck, Hua Cheng, can you stop pretending you are not worried too? We three spent eight hundred years in this stupid 'I hate you' thing but guess what? We don't. We care and there's nothing wrong with that. If you want to keep that up, go fuck yourself alone. I'm not doing this stupid shit anymore.“ Turning around, Feng Xin marched to the exit and Hua Cheng rolled his eyes, even if he felt like the dumbshit was right.

People that hate each other won't do the things they were willing to do for one another. They were not enemies. They weren't friends either, but the animosity was not that deep. If Hua Cheng haven't been with the duo for so long, maybe he could hate them. But the proximity made him know and realize a lot about their personalities and motives.

And His Highness liked them, to the point of letting them have altars in his own city.

“Tell me where he is so I can, I don't know, talk to him or something like that. I want the ashes back.“ Hua Cheng's voice was a little less bitter now and Feng Xin noticed it right away.

“Good luck finding him. And if you find him, good luck talking with him. He is absolutely mute now and I'm pretty sure he would starve if I didn't feed him.“ The Southern God looked at Hua Cheng, serious. "His Highness is special for us too. Not in the same way as you find him special, but that doesn't mean our feelings are weak. You and him... There's no way someone could feel so much as you two. This kind of dedication, of devotion is not normal, but I'm glad he has you. And I'm glad you have him. Both of you deserve it.“

“If Mu Qing is so affected, you shouldn't leave his side.“

“So now you are worried?" Feng Xin giggled, starting to leave again. “I know Mu Qing better than anyone, so I know the best I can do for him is taking care of his responsibilities so he can recover without worries. You should go rest too, you look exhausted.“

Hua Cheng looked at the man's back, taking a few seconds to process the information. If he wanted to find Mu Qing, he would be able to do it, of course.

Shaking his head, Hua Cheng returned to the garden. The safety of the ashes were a priority and it was better to keep him away from them. Even if BanYue was so sure about His Highness, he couldn't help, but feel anxious.

Of course he would wait for His Highness for a year or decades or centuries. The world could end and Hua Cheng's soul would be still waiting. It couldn't be any different, but the wait hurt. Hurt too much and he doubted.

Not His Highness, no. He doubted himself. He doubted his worth, his body and his mind.

And if he had breakdowns, crying and screaming, desperate on his own misery, only the flowers witnessed that.

.

.

.

On the end of the sixth month of wait, Hua Cheng attended to a party. A wedding party.

He didn't want to be there, he didn't feel like there was something to celebrate without the presence of His Highness. But in his palace, weddings were sacred. Consecrate oneself to another was something he take very seriously and all his deputies followed the same mentality.

Love above duty, loyalty above obedience.

Every wedding on his palace was celebrated for a week, with music, food and dances to entertain the guests. After that, Hua Cheng granted the sweet first decade of marriage free of obligations for his deputy as a wedding gift.

Lei Huo deserved it even more than the others. He was a good man, dedicated to his work and honest in his approach. It was not a surprise to anyone when he was appointed as the head deputy, literally the second in command of the palace. His good reputation flew around Heavens and everyone respected him.

A man like him finding his destined one on the ghost Meili was a good surprise. Meili was sweet and dedicated to her King, so she would be able to understand Lei Huo's dedication. And even if they were so different, the way they looked at each other during the ceremonies was enough to know that they would fight side by side to make it work.

Ah, they would have to excuse him, today. His heart hurt a little bit more, remembering His Highness smile when accepted marrying to him.

“Lord Hua Cheng!" Called someone, a woman with long brown hair, on light green robes. “Leaving already? The party only started!"

He had to wait for a moment before he could recognize the human.

“Shi QingXuan?"

"Of course it's me! Tsk, have you been so busy thinking of His Highness that you forgot everyone else?"

“That was not appropriate, baobei.“ Another recognizable figured appeared and Hua Cheng raised an eyebrow.

“Black Water Sinking Ships. Such a surprise seeing you around.“ The 'around Shi QingXuan' was left unsaid, but He Xuan seemed to understand anyway.

“He-xiong was invited, he's not intruding!" Defended Shi QingXuan, smiling afterwards. "I'm sorry for what I said.“

Hua Cheng ignored the apology, focusing in another matter. "I thought humans couldn't change their forms.“

“Of course we can't, silly!" She laughed. “He-xiong gave me this magical earrings, see?“

In fact, a couple of delicate black pearls decorated Shi QingXuan's ears.

“They look pretty on you.“

“Oh, such a gentleman... He-xiong! Look! The bride is so gorgeous!" In the same energetic way she appeared, Shi QingXuan was gone. He Xuan stayed near him, observing her talk to Meili.

"Should I said I'm surprised to see you with her?"

“Please don't. Lian-ge will make fun of me for decades because I took so long for no reason.“ He Xuan sighed. “Well, her brother can't say much against me, anyways. She likes me and I have conditions to give her a good life even if she's unlucky. So he had to accept me, liking it or not, and keep his horrible life out of my sight.“

The proud smile in the ghost face was really clear in his satisfaction. They both stayed in silence for a few moments, before Hua Cheng turned away. He Xuan made a soft sound before calling him.

“Going to the garden so early, Hua Cheng?"

"My presence here is not needed anymore. And Lei Huo will understand.“

“Are you sure about it? I thought you would stay and dance at least one song.“

“Why would I...“

"San Lang.“

Hua Cheng turned back so fast that his hair hit his face like a whip.

It didn't matter.

Nothing, nothing in the world mattered.

Nothing, but the red clothed Ghost King, who was extending a gloved hand to him.

"Come dance with me, my dear San Lang.“

That voice, that figure was now extremely familiar. The golden mask was hiding his face, but his tone was sweet like honey and soft like petals.

It took him too long to be in his beloved arms again, even if he crossed the crowded place in seconds. With urgent, desperate fingers, Hua Cheng ripped the crying mask off, revealing smiling lips and shining dark eyes.

And, in the same desperate way, he held and kissed the one he devoted all his life to.

His Highness. His God. His Ghost King.

His Xie Lian.

Chapter Text

“Baba!“

Their dance was interrupted by BanYue and Hua Cheng freed His Highness to let him hug the princess. A little grumpy, yes, but he wasn't the only one waiting for his beloved.

“My sweetheart, have you been well?" Answered the Ghost King, receiving a pouty expression from his daughter.

"Yes, but baba! Those trashes really don't know how to organize themselves! They were so annoying, I wanted to send my snakes to greet them so many times. Specially that idiot Bai Kao, always knocking at our door because of this or that, how did that asshole ascend in the first place? Ridiculous.“

"It's okay now, I'll take care of that from now on.“ Xie Lian looked around, smiling to a few known faces, but he suddenly frowned. “I hoped to see Feng Xin and Mu Qing in the party. I can see a few deputies from their palaces around, but where are they?"

"I can call Feng Xin for you, gege." Offered Hua Cheng, anxious to please his beloved. Xie Lian nodded and then he smiled to the newlywed couple approaching them. “Xiao Meili. May the Heavens bless your union.“

“I'm marrying to heaven itself, Your Highness.“ the woman bowed to him, her husband bowing too.

“That good feeling is what makes a happy marriage, in the end…”

“Gege, they can receive us now.“

“Oh, excellent. We should go now. I don't want to call more attention than I already did.“ Xie Lian smiled to the people around, taking Hua Cheng's hand and starting to walk away.

As soon as they left the party, a dark figure appeared next to Xie Lian, accompanying their steps.

“Lian-ge.“

“Thank you for taking care of my San Lang, A-Xuan.“

“It's the least I could do for you." The Calamity smiled at them. “I talked to him. We are good now.“

“Really? Oh, I'm so happy for you, A-Xuan, but... Can we talk in another moment? You see, I have one thing to take care before I can really relax.“ Nodding, He Xuan disappeared in thin air. “San Lang, I'm sorry for not giving you the attention you deserve, but I really need to..."

"Gege doesn't need to explain anything to me. I'll wait.“

“My dear San Lang.“ A soft touch on Hua Cheng's cheek made him blush. Not now, he remembered, even if all he wanted was to take His Highness on his arms and doesn't let go. Never let go.

Soon, they were walking on a vast and dark hill, a cold breeze making the grass move slightly and the moonlight bathing their surroundings in a light silver glow. In the top of the hill and facing a calm lake, a human figure waited outside an isolated hut.

Feng Xin bowed when they were close enough to be illuminated by the lamp near the door.

“Your Highness.“

“It's good to see you again, Feng Xin.“ With his free hand, Xie Lian touched his old friend on the shoulder. “With no masks between us this time.“

“There is so much to say now that the masks are gone, but...“

“Priorities, Feng Xin. We have all eternity to talk about things, but I have a promise to fulfill now. Where's Mu Qing?"

"Inside. Your Highness, I..." The General looked a bit uncomfortable for a moment, but he stared at the ghost before him. “I don't know what happened up there that day, but since then Mu Qing haven't said a word. I'm hoping he'll talk to you, but if he doesn't... Please, don't be mad at him.“

“You don't have to worry anymore, Feng Xin.“ Opening the door, Xie Lian entered the barely illuminated hut.

Sitting by one window looking at the lake, wearing dark blue robes and his hair loose, Mu Qing didn't turn to look at who had arrived. Hua Cheng stayed near the door, next to Feng Xin, while Xie Lian sat at the chair near the god.

The only indication they had to Mu Qing consciousness was the way his eyes focused on his lap, looking at his trembling hands. Uncoiling from his neck and revealing the cursed shackle there, Rouye patted his face, trying to console him.

“I beg for your forgiveness, Your Highness.“

“There is not a thing to be forgiven, Mu Qing.“

“We both know there is.“

“So I beg for your forgiveness, too."

Slowly, Mu Qing looked at Xie Lian, his eyes taking in all of his features, like he was afraid the person in front of him wasn't real. But the kindness on those dark eyes were unique.

"It was my fault His Highness stepped into that creature trap. If I was... If I was a better person, maybe... That... That night..."

“Bai Wuxiang was the only one at fault. Not me. Not you. Not San Lang. Not those people. Bai Wuxiang and Bai Wuxiang only.“

"I should have been there.“ Concluded Mu Qing, tears rolling down his cheeks. “Even if it made things worse, even if that creature used me against you, even if I ended up in that altar in your place, I... I should have been by your side."

Hua Cheng felt his stomach doing a flip, a bad, nauseous one. Mu Qing knew about that, which could only mean Jun Wu had showed him what happened that night, in the same way he was shown His Highness' death.

He understood, now, why Mu Qing was in such state. Hua Cheng himself couldn't contain his own feelings in the occasion, his energy so out of control that he had two only possible endings: dispersing or evolving. Of course he stayed, he would never let His Highness behind, alone in this world.

“I'm glad you weren't.“ Answered Xie Lian, holding Mu Qing's hands. “This kind of suffering, I'm glad I was the one to experienced that. And you... You did well leaving me behind. Your mother, the children of your village, your own safety and well-being were your priorities. I understand that.“

“How could you say that?"

"I wasn't loyal to anyone, in that time. I expected so much from you, from Feng Xin, from my parents... From everyone. It was unjust, cruel even. I defended everyone and planned better things and tried to solve everything in my way because I was arrogant and selfish. I ignored you and Feng Xin so many times, I rejected your affections and care so often... I'm sorry.“ Xie Lian turned to look at Feng Xin. "I'm so sorry for asking so much of you those days. And I'm grateful, forever grateful, for what you both did for me. Then and now.“

A long moment of silence dominated the small hut, the only audible sounds being the subtle sobs from Mu Qing and the soft breeze outside. Feng Xin's posture was rigid, as if he was controlling his whole body to not move, to not tremble. He was trying to keep his stance, making a fortitude of himself, his own feelings ignored for a while in respect of Mu Qing's suffering. Hua Cheng knew that feeling, too, so he touched the archer's shoulder.

“Can I touch you, Mu Qing?" The god simply nodded, tired, and Xie Lian touched his neck with his fingers. The cursed shackle wasn't black, but slightly reddish, a terrible sign in Xie Lian's conception. "Rouye, bind Feng Xin.“

"Uh?" The white cloth immediately flew around Feng Xin, making him fall to the ground.

The scream that followed was reason enough for the precaution. Mu Qing's hands grabbed Xie Lian's wrist, but he wasn't fighting against the ghost. Instead, he was seeking leverage or comfort. With golden light flowing from Xie Lian's fingertips, spiritual energy surrounded the shackle, making it tighten around Mu Qing's neck.

Bind Feng Xin was truly a wise move, because when Mu Qing couldn't control his body anymore, falling on his knees while the Calamity still held his neck, the god trashed against Rouye. Hua Cheng had to restrain him too, holding him in place, because Rouye started to tremble in fear of being ripped off. Not a word, not a sound left Feng Xin's mouth, his expression worried, eyes focused ahead, but he was not angry.

He didn't want to fight His Highness: he wanted to hold Mu Qing through this, Hua Cheng noticed. But he couldn't, or the energy would disperse on him too.

When a blast of power shook the hut, all the lights extinguished, silence was the sign that it was over. Illuminated by the moon, Xie Lian took Mu Qing's hands into his own, whispering sweet calming words, caressing his hair and face sometimes, soothing him until the god recovered from such a energy overload.

The shackle was gone and Feng Xin sighed, relieved, at the sight of his fellow god's bare neck.

“Rouye, come back.“ The white silk obeyed Xie Lian, returning to cover Mu Qing's bruised skin. At the same time, Feng Xin's arms hugged Mu Qing, holding his weight while Xie Lian got up, smiling at them.

“Your Highness...“

“Mu Qing needs to rest, so I recommend you to stay here a little longer. He's stronger than Yin Yu, so he won't need a long time to recover, but it's better to keep things easy for while.“

“Thank you, your Highness.“ Said Feng Xin, getting up with a barely conscious Mu Qing in his arms. “I promise to take good care of him.“

“I know you will. You always did.“

Hua Cheng watched the god walk into one room at the back of the hut and, then, he was alone with His Highness again.

“Gege, is there something else you need to do?“ He asked, seeing the calamity walk past him, going outside. Following his God, Hua Cheng closed the door behind him.

“Anxious to have me all to yourself, my dear San Lang?" Teased Xie Lian, smiling at him. “I'm done, so my attention is completely yours now.“

"I missed you.“

Xie Lian smile turned into something more soft, his hand reaching out to touch his lover's face.

"This is not the place for that yet. Let's go somewhere else, my dear.“

Hua Cheng nodded and soon he was involved by white petals... And white petals kept surrounding him once they arrived. A little gasp left Xie Lian's lips and Hua Cheng felt his soul tremble, pleased with the reaction.

“San Lang... Are they yours?" Asked the Calamity, smiling and raising his hand. A small, a silver butterfly landed on his palm, it's translucent wings moving slowly, as if it was content of being held by Xie Lian.

And it probably was. Being made of Hua Cheng's spiritual energy, all the butterflies that fluttered around the white garden loved their flowers and loved His Highness even more.

“The flowers seemed to be lonely here, so I made this butterflies to keep them company.“ Hua Cheng started to walk and Xie Lian followed his steps, the butterflies occasionally approaching the ghost king to greet him.

“They are so beautiful, San Lang. I've never seen such precious creatures before. The garden is even more lovely now...“

“I pray for Your Highness forgiveness.“ Interrupted Hua Cheng, stopping on a corridor.

“San Lang?"

"When Your Highness was away, healing his body, this lowly one couldn't help but spent most of the time in this place.“

“I know you did.“ Hua Cheng looked at him, confused and Xie Lian just smiled at him, getting closer. “Everything that I have belongs to you, San Lang. My territories, my subjects, my properties, my body, my soul, my heart, my devotion. It's all yours to do whatever you want, whatever pleases you.“

“Your Highness...“

“No. Not like that.“ Xie Lian hugged him by the neck, flushing his bodies as close as he could. “Don't call me that now.“

“Gege.“

“Yes, my dear San Lang?" Hua Cheng hugged him back.

"I missed you.“

“I missed you too, my dear. I'm so sorry for leaving you alone once more. Let's not repeat that, what do you think?"

“Don't die again.“

“The only one capable of killing me now is you, San Lang.“ The Ghost King patted his chest and Hua Cheng noticed a silver chain there.

Dangling on it, a golden ring.

"I was planning to give you this on our wedding... But I was also planning to show you the garden on our honeymoon, and well... That's not possible anymore."

“We still can come here for our honeymoon, gege.“ Hua Cheng didn't need to breathe, that what he believed, but right now he felt his lungs burning from the lack of oxygen. His breath was completely out of control when his fingers touched the ring. And, when he looked up, he noticed the fine chain on His Highness neck, a silver ring between delicate fingers. “We match.“

“We do.“ Laughed Xie Lian, eyes sparkling.

Hua Cheng wanted to keep seeing him. He wanted to wake up looking at that face, wanted to sleep at the sight of that smile. He wanted to look up and find himself always near him, always at his side, always able to reach out and touch him.

“I'm irrevocably yours, Xie Lian.“ Confessed Hua Cheng and the Calamity blinked, surprised at the sudden confession. “You might know this already, but since the moment I saw you for the first time I knew I was destined to be yours. Every single time I met you, my devotion only grew, until all that I am is made exclusively of you. Having your love was something inconceivable for me, but at the same time... It's right. I feel it in my soul, even if my mind tries to make me feel bad about it. Loving you and being loved so deeply by you at the same time it's the way things should have been since the beginning.“

Hua Cheng embraced Xie Lian, staring into those dark, beautiful eyes that reflected the sea of glowing flowers around them.

“Even if our past played differently, even if all our history ended up being nothing like it was to us now... Being with you was the only possible outcome. I was born to be yours and there is nothing in this world that could make me believe otherwise.“

The happy, emotional tears falling from Xie Lian's eyes made Hua Cheng smile at him, cupping His Highness' face with his hands and caressing his cheeks with his thumbs.

"My San Lang. My dear, my lover, my life… You will surely be the death of me.“ A soft chuckle left his lips and Xie Lian's eyes focused on them immediately. “I want to kiss you. Please, please let me kiss you again, San Lang."

“You don't need to ask, gege. Just take me. I'm yours.“