Chapter Text
Luo Binghe did not know much about children. It was no shame, he hadn’t really had much interactions with children, especially younger ones. He didn’t really have shidis on the peak. He’d been the last to be accepted into Qing Jing, and the ones from the other Peaks didn’t count, he’d only ever seen them in passing.
He knew that children were very important and precious, or at least should be. There were many, himself included, that had rough childhoods, filled with uncaring and neglectful, cruel people. People who would walk past a child crying from hunger without a second thought, even though they had more food than they could possibly eat. People who did nothing to stop a child being beaten, who laughed when a child begged to be allowed inside and out from the rain.
Luo Binghe didn’t like thinking about such cruel people. It brought him nothing good. Even knowing he had surpassed those cruel people in both position and strength, that he would never be cold or beaten or left out in the rain ever again did little to comfort him when thoughts like those came. He worked hard to push them away, to ignore the memories as if they were nothing more than bad dreams.
But there were still times he couldn’t do so with ease, times when he had to struggle to focus on the good things in his life. The thoughts and memories surfaced the most whenever the topic of Shizun’s (his husband’s) son arose.
Luo Binghe hadn’t really had the pleasure to truly meet little Shen Jiu. He was technically Luo Binghe’s only shidi, and was doubly precious for being born of Shizun’s (his husband’s) spiritual essence. Shizun (his husband), who was nothing but devoted and good and fair, always striving for the best outcome for those he loved. He was a powerful cultivator, an attentive teacher, a loving spouse. Yet Shizun claimed that he had not been a good parent. That he’d left little A-Jiu alone in his room when he cried at night, that he’d gotten mad and yelled over every single small thing, even something so small as a toddler dropping something or falling over. That little A-Jiu had not grown up knowing how kind and wonderful Shizun was, and instead had known only cruelty from him.
When Shizun (his husband) spoke about that, face twisted with grief and regret, he looked like a man who had woken up from being possessed and discovered he had hurt his most precious person. But Shizun had not been possessed, he swore. He had just been misguided and cruel.
Luo Binghe worried about Shizun (his husband). The way he spoke, the way he described the things he had done, the ways he had failed his son reminded him of when he had first joined Qing Jing. Shizun hadn’t been kind then. He had been cruel, angry, had ordered Luo Binghe beaten many times, had sent him away to sleep in a cold shed, had done nothing to stop others mistreating him, piling so many chores and tasks onto his shoulders he barely had the time to eat.
Then that fever had come, turning that cold Shizun into a being of kindness and warmth, into his dearest darling husband. Luo Binghe had pushed away those first years of hardship then, dispelled the resentment and anger that had churned like poison in his belly. How could he not, when Shizun had done so much for him, had helped him reach his full potential? The extra chores had surely been to help Binghe build his strength, unsuited as he was for purely spiritual cultivation. The shed had been to harden him, make him more resilient. The beatings… he hadn’t quite managed to find a proper excuse for the beatings. Perhaps also to harden him? Whatever the reason, it had served him well, he was certain of it. He had to be.
But thinking about Shizun (his husband) mistreating a little child, a baby entrusted into his care did not sit right with him. There could be no higher purpose in mistreating a baby, no way to harden a body still soft with baby fat.
Little A-Jiu had arrived a bit before Luo Binghe had been sent to the Abyss. He had been thought dead, lost. Shizun had built a shrine for him, had grieved him, had missed him. Had his grief twisted him up? Had his heart closed off upon losing Luo Binghe, unable to open even for his own baby? Perhaps he’d suffered a qi deviation and had reverted back to that cold Shizun from before? There were so many possibilities, and none of them offered any comfort.
Luo Binghe shook his head, pushing those thoughts away. Whatever the reason had been, it was done. The past was in the past, and they could only hope for the future. And Shizun (his husband) was so very hopeful. He clearly loved his son now, spoke of him often, cried tears of happiness each time he received a letter from his son, reading and re-reading it over and over. He prepared so excitedly each time it was time for their weekly visits, flying off to Cang Qiong as soon as it was dawn.
Shizun loved his son dearly now, and tried his very best to make up for the mistakes of his past. He was surely attentive with him, kind and loving, supportive and proud. Or at least Luo Binghe assumed he was. He hadn’t really had the time to go on one of such visits along with Shizun. He was very busy in the demon realm, consolidating his power took time and effort. He also might’ve felt a bit shy. What if little A-Jiu resented Luo Binghe for always having his kind Shizun, for being loved so deeply? What if he didn’t like him for being a demon or for marrying Shizun and taking him so far away?
He did voice some of those worries to Shizun (his husband), and had promptly been assured that little A-Jiu was a sweet boy who was sure to love him. Luo Binghe wasn’t that sure of that, but how could he argue when Shizun (his husband) looked so sure.
Luo Binghe wanted to support Shizun (his husband) no matter what, in any endeavor. So, even though he couldn’t really come personally, he always made sure to prepare tasty cakes or sweets for little A-Jiu. If Shizun left at dawn, his Binghe would be up at midnight, cooking a new delicious something for little A-Jiu. Shizun (his husband) assured him each offering was greatly appreciated and that A-Jiu loved his sweets. It gladdened Luo Binghe’s heart, made him all the more eager to try out new fun recipes for little A-Jiu. He was technically Luo Binghe’s shidi, but Luo Binghe was married to A-Jiu’s father. Didn’t that make Luo Binghe A-Jiu’s step-father?
Aiyah, it was so complicated! Luo Binghe didn’t know much about being a father! A baby he could manage, it was mostly holding and feeding and changing it. A-Jiu was eleven, he required much more. But if there was one thing Luo Binghe knew how to do, it was cook delicious things.
He put the finishing touches on his newest creation for the feast he’d prepared for tomorrow. He had gotten hold of a new spice from the human realm, and had prepared many tasty treats with it. He hoped A-Jiu liked it when he arrived tomorrow with Liu-shishu.
To think that Luo Binghe would finally get to meet his little shidi (his little stepson). The whole palace had been preparing for the past week. The demons had all been strictly informed of acceptable behavior. Sha Hualing had been sent away on a mission with Liu Mingyan so she wouldn’t disrupt anything, the more dangerous-looking demons had all been sent out on patrols so none would scare little A-Jiu. Luo Binghe had personally planned out and cooked the meals, and Shizun had spent the last two days in the garden, putting stasis barriers around any plant too dangerous for little A-Jiu to touch. Shizun fiddled with each barrier until it was crystal clear, which would allow little A-Jiu to still see the plants while remaining completely safe.
Safety was key during this visit. From what Shizun (his husband) had said, Liu-shishu had only allowed this trip on the condition that there would be nothing that could hurt little A-Jiu in the palace while they were visiting. Shizun (his husband) had taken that to heart, even having some of the decorative weapons removed from the walls. Shang-shishu had gotten some lovely painting to hang there instead, so the walls wouldn’t look too bare.
Speaking of Shang-shishu, he had placed himself in charge of preparing the rooms Liu-shishu and little A-Jiu would stay in for their visit. If all went well, they might stay the night, so their rooms had to be perfect.
The rooms should be prepared by now. Luo Binghe placed the plate of finished cinnamon cookies on the table along with his previously prepared treats, and left the kitchen. He was most curious how it turned out.
- - -
The rooms were very nearly done. Shang-shishu was just putting in some finishing touches when Luo Binghe arrived, instructing the demons on where to place the weiqi table.
Shang-shishu had outdone himself – the rooms looked fit for a king. The main chamber was decorated with lavish green tapestries and paintings of forests and mountains. There were thick dark carpets on the floor to stave away the chill. There was a large bookcase filled to the brim with books and a comfortable looking soft chair right next to it, big enough to fit a parent and child for some cuddling by a good book. The weiqi table was being placed right next to the balcony, which faced out onto the garden and beyond, past rolling hills and boiling lakes, the view unobstructed all the way to the tall Delirium Mountains. There was an ornate table large enough to sit six, and a desk with a cabinet already filled with any art supply one could wish for. There were several instruments off in that corner, a xiao, a qin, a pipa, everything a little musician might wish to practice. The sleep chamber was also finished. Two large beds stood waiting, mattresses soft and blankets made from the softest of silks. It was clear which bed was intended for little A-Jiu, because there was a tapestry depicting the night sky hanging on the ceiling above it. Luo Binghe spotted a little talisman sewn in one corner, and knew that the stars would twinkle in the dark, as if there was a bit of real sky right here in the bedchamber for a little boy to enjoy.
Shang-shishu had truly outdone himself. Luo Binghe was impressed with the amount of detail and thought that had been put into these rooms. He was even amused to spot some touches that had to have been left by Mobei-Jun. Luo Binghe spotted a Thrice Dimentional Crystal used by great artists of old to create unique masterpieces, found exclusively in the Northern Vision Caves. Over in the instrument corner was a small demon drum made from the skin of a gahod beast, the spots on the leather unmistakable. Then there was also that little white ice dragon toy on little A-Jiu’s bed, already guarding the spot his little head would rest in slumber.
Liu-shishu and little A-Jiu were sure to love such lovingly prepared chambers. Why, they would surely be so impressed that they would stay the night to enjoy their trip to the fullest. Shizun would be beside himself from joy.
- - -
[[Author’s Notes- I just had to add this:
sqh hyperfocused on selecting the finest quality of instruments
mbj silently adds a little gahod drum onto the cart, because he remember he’d had one as a kid
-
sqh instructs a team of artists to find and procure all the art supplies available
mbj goes to the caves to fetch a crystal, cause his favorite painting from childhood had been created with one, adds it onto the shelf
-
sqh inspects the newly hung sky tapestry above the bed
mbj places a lil dragon plush on the pillow
sqh “Aww, my King. Is it like the one you had as a child?”
mbj “No. You said the boy likes dragons. I’ve had it commissioned.”
sqh <3 “My King! You are so good to this Qinghua of yours!”]]
- - -
On the day of their visit, Liu Qingge and A-Jiu left early. Very early, before sunrise. It would be a long flight to the demon realm, and Liu Qingge wanted to arrive at least around noon. It would leave them half the day to hopefully enjoy whatever Shen Qingqiu had planned for them.
A-Jiu was not good at rising early, even not today. His prince had been so excited about going to the demon realm that he’d gone to sleep far later than usual, thus Liu Qingge was not surprised that A-Jiu was barely awake in the morning, even more so than he usually was. Waking his prince was sometimes a challenge worthy of the gods themselves, but it was fine. A-Jiu could sleep as much as he wanted during their long flight. He was just so cute when he slept, safe and secure by Liu Qingge’s side. Or in his arms, as it would be the case now.
Once they were ready to go, Liu Qingge lifted A-Jiu into his arms and secured him in his traveling sling. It was a modified version of the one Liu Qingge used to carry him around when he was tiny. Well, tinier, A-Jiu was still quite small. At least in Liu Qingge’s eyes, and he’s by now learned not to say that in front of his son. There was nothing cuter than his son with his cheeks puffed out in anger, and cooing was not a good way to appease A-Jiu’s prickly moods.
Once in the sling, A-Jiu was safely secured against his baba’s hip. The fabric of the sling wrapped around his back and bottom so he wouldn’t slip out; it also provided protection from the cold early morning air during their flight. It left A-Jiu’s head in the perfect position to rest against his baba’s shoulder, which he promptly did, falling almost immediately back into slumber.
Liu Qingge chuckled softly and pressed a lingering kiss against his darling son’s forehead, his little prince.
A-Jiu slept for nearly all of their flight, as Liu Qingge had thought. He didn’t mind. It gave him an opportunity to steel himself for the visit. The visitations with Shen Qingqiu were going well, so well in fact that A-Jiu was starting to open up to him. It helped that Shen Qingqiu was very open with his praise, and that his praise was actually more constructive than Liu Qingge’s usually was. Shen Qingqiu could accurately point out which brush strokes were marvelous and which needed work, Shen Qingqiu could guide A-Jiu in just how to pluck at the strings of his qin to make the music so much sweeter. Liu Qingge wasn’t talented in the four arts so he usually wasn’t of much constructive use. He was simply always amazed and awed by his talented son no matter what he did. Ever since his first attempt at writing, since the first little tune, since the first blobby drawing. He still had that drawing, a small green blob with a big grey blob, which his prince had insisted was him and Liu Qingge. It was hanging on the wall of his bedroom, framed and preserved via talisman. It was often the first thing Liu Qingge saw in the morning, and it invigorated his soul like the rarest spiritual crystals.
They arrived around noon as planned, the sun shining bright against the red sky of the demon realm. Shen Qingqiu and Luo Binghe were waiting for them out in what appeared to be the main courtyard. Thankfully there didn’t seem to be any other demons around, not even that almost nude one that tended to follow his sister around.
Liu Qingge slowly brought Cheng Luan down onto the ground, taking care not to jostle his son. A-Jiu slept on, his hands tucked adorably beneath his chin. So precious.
“Greetings, Liu-shidi.” Shen Qingqiu stepped forward, the very picture of a gracious host. The picture failed briefly when he blinked in confusion at A-Jiu. “Is that a… a baby sling?”
Liu Qingge nodded, patting his prince’s back through the fabric. “It’s a modified version of the one A-Jiu used to have as a baby, yes. Shang-shixiong fashioned this one for us when A-Jiu was six and insisted on accompanying me on missions and night hunts.”
Shen Qingqiu drew in a little gasp, his eyes widening. “And you took him? Your missions can be so dangerous.”
Liu Qingge couldn’t stop the huff. If Qi Qingqi hadn’t stopped him the first time he’d taken A-Jiu on a mission in the traveling sling, that could only mean that it was perfectly safe. “There is no place safer than with me.” Not like Shen Qingqiu would know, he’d been gone for so long he was still little more than an acquaintance to A-Jiu, definitely not someone who could question Liu Qingge so openly like this.
Shen Qingqiu seemed to realize that, as he opened his fan and hid his face behind it.
Luo Binghe stepped forward, smiling amicably. “We are so glad you agreed to come for a visit, Liu-shishu.” He bowed politely. “I trust you and Shen-shidi had no issues on your flight.”
“We encountered no flying demons, if that’s what you mean.”
“It was. I sent specific orders for you not to be bothered.”
“You have my thanks.” Liu Qingge inclined his head. Happening upon aggressive demons had been the main reason he’d opted not to travel by carriage or horse. He would never risk his son’s safety by traveling down unknown and unsafe routes by land.
“Is A-Jiu all right?” Shen Qingqiu asked, stepping closer so he could peer into the sling. “He’s not waking up.”
“He’s fine, it’s normal for him.” Liu Qingge took a step back and focused his attention on A-Jiu. “Come on now, my prince. Time to awaken and greet the day.” He pressed his lips against A-Jiu’s cheek and blew a raspberry against it.
A-Jiu blinked his eyes open, then immediately clenched them shut when a beam of sunlight hit him. “No, bad sun!” he whined adorably. “Baba, protect!”
Liu Qingge chuckled and obeyed, covering his prince’s eyes with his hand. His darling son was still so small that Liu Qingge could cover his eyes with just his palm, which left his fingers free to card through his hard or tap teasingly against his ear. Tap tap tap and out came A-Jiu’s bottom lip, curving his mouth into a pout. His little prince truly disliked waking up.
Liu Qingge rocked side to side, giving Shen Qingqiu and Luo Binghe an apologetic look. “You’ll have to give us a moment or two. A-Jiu can be fairly stubborn when it comes to waking up.”
“Y- yes, of course.” Shen Qingqiu nodded. His eyes were wide as he stared at A-Jiu, almost drinking in his little face. He did that sometimes – stared at A-Jiu as if he was something precious and irreplaceable. Which he absolutely was, no one would even dare question it. It both gladdened and irked Liu Qingge. Gladdened because it could only mean that Shen Qingqiu finally realized what a treasure their son was and would treat him accordingly. Irked because Liu Qingge still remembered the way Shen Qingqiu would look at A-Jiu before. It was a stark and uncomfortable contrast to how he looked at him now.
It was also a stark and uncomfortable reminder of just how much Liu Qingge had been willfully blind to then. It helped Liu Qingge to be always on his guard, watchful and vigilant. If Shen Qingqiu ever reverted back to his neglectful, cruel parenting style, Liu Qingge would be the first to notice and put a stop to it. Five years ago, right after Shen Qingqiu had abandoned them to go die for his favored disciple, Liu Qingge had vowed to his sobbing prince the he would not be made to suffer by his other father again. He intended to keep that promise no matter what.
A-Jiu shifted in the sling, stretching slowly. It was one of the signs that A-Jiu was waking up, so Liu Qingge removed his hand, bouncing his darling son against his hip. He shifted his position so that A-Jiu’s face would be shielded from the sun, which put him in direct line of sight of Luo Binghe.
“Fluffy,” A-Jiu murmured, blinking slowly at Luo Binghe. “Like Yang’er.”
Liu Qingge chuckled. His witty little prince. He bounced him a bit once more, only to be met with a displeased mumble as A-Jiu pressed his face against Liu Qingge’s shoulder.
“Yang’er?” Luo Binghe turned towards Shen Qingqiu with a questioning look. And… and Shen Qingqiu said nothing, also visibly confused.
Stuff like this always served to enrage Liu Qingge like nothing else. For Shen Qingqiu to not know things that happened during his five year absence was understandable. But for him not to know the name of A-Jiu’s beloved stuffed lamb?! He’d slept with that thing since he’d been two, had once cried for nearly an entire shichen when it had gotten lost during an outing Liu Qingge had taken him on. Only finding the ridiculous thing had calmed his prince down. So how could Shen Qingqiu not know?!
And how could Liu Qingge fail to notice how little attention Shen Qingqiu had paid their son? A-Jiu had told him once that Shen Qingqiu was never pleased and only yelled. Liu Qingge himself had witnessed it many times and dismissed it as Shen Qingqiu being overly strict so as not to be accused of favoritism. The favoritism had been blatant, just not for A-Jiu. Never for A-Jiu, and Liu Qingge was a blind fool.
He pressed a kiss to his prince’s temple, cuddling him close. “It was the name of his stuffed lamb,” he said, forcing his tone to remain civil. He wanted this trip to go well for A-Jiu, and that meant pushing aside his resentment and anger at Shen Qingqiu and himself.
Luo Binghe chuckled. “Shizun calls my hair fluffy as well.”
Shen Qingqiu nodded, his expression hidden behind his fan. Liu Qingge hoped he realized Yang’er was something he should’ve already known.
Luo Binghe must’ve sensed the tension between them, because he stepped forward, beckoning Liu Qingge inside with a graceful wave of his hand. “Liu-shishu, we have a set of rooms prepared for you and for Shen-shidi. Would you like to freshen up after your long trip? Perhaps finish waking Shen-shidi up as well?”
Liu Qingge clicked his tongue and nodded. “Appreciated.” It would also give Liu Qingge a moment to calm himself down. He really wanted this trip to go well for his darling prince.
- - -
Liu Qingge paused when he first stepped into the room, looking around with an impressed whistle. Luo Binghe lifted his chin with a smile, chest puffing out in pride.
“I hope the rooms are to your liking,” he said. “We spared no expense.” Nothing but the best for Shizun’s beloved son.
“Giving Shang-shixiong free reign does result in high quality,” Liu Qingge mused as he stepped farther into the room, peering into the art cabinet by the little desk.
Luo Binghe blinked, surprised by the insight. “Liu-shishu knows Shang-shishu prepared the rooms?” He didn’t see a note or anything personal Shang Qinghua might’ve left behind to clue their guests in.
Liu Qingge nodded, eyeing the bookcase and the large soft chair beside it. “It’s got everything A-Jiu will like, of course it was him. You should have seen the mountain of gifts he’d brought when he’d first visited. Each one handpicked by him, A-Jiu loved them all.”
Luo Binghe pushed down his urge to scowl and smiled politely. Shang Qinghua also loved A-Jiu, that was clear in the work he’d put into this room. He’d been an uncle to the boy since he’d been born, and Shizun had said that Shang Qinghua might even be the favorite uncle. It should be expected that A-Jiu and Shang Qinghua were close.
It still irked though. Shizun loved A-Jiu so dearly, tried so hard to be the best parent he could be considering the circumstances. Yet Luo Binghe also knew that A-Jiu and Shizun weren’t close, that there was a distance between them, an awkwardness that crippled their interactions.
Shizun often brooded over that distance, compiling lists of activities they could do together to bond, studying books on child rearing, discussing it with Shang Qinghua or Qi Qingqi or Mu Qingfang. Shizun tried so hard, worked so much, put his whole heart into fixing what was broken between them. He never once blamed little A-Jiu, assured Luo Binghe that with everything that had happened between them, building a good relationship would require much effort and commitment. Effort and commitment Shizun was more than willing to put in. Shizun had such joy on his face each time his efforts were successful, each time little A-Jiu smiled at him or had fun with him or even seemed to enjoy Shizun’s presence. And Shizun couldn’t hide his heartbreak when something went wrong, when little A-Jiu shied from him or flinched away, when he grew upset or distant. Shizun would hide his heartbroken expression behind his fan and a steely expression and strive to work harder to bond with little A-Jiu and repair what had been broken between them.
Shizun never blamed little A-Jiu, only ever blamed himself. His perfect, kind Shizun, so brave to admit his past faults so openly. His dedicated, hardworking Shizun, who had sacrificed his life to save Luo Binghe’s, who tried so very hard to be a good parent to his only son.
It irked, that someone like Shang Qinghua could repair his own relationship with little A-Jiu with a pile of gifts. He understood they were thoughtful gifts, picked with love and consideration, but how could they compare to Shizun’s hard work and big heart?
They would just have to make sure that everything goes perfect. The rooms were magnificent, true, but everything else had been organized by Shizun, all the activities and events planned to the smallest detail. They were sure to impress both little A-Jiu and Liu Qingge, and show them the depth of Shizun’s love and consideration.
Shizun stepped closer and placed one slim hand on Luo Binghe’s elbow, smiling at Liu Qingge. “If you desire anything, let us know. I have the day planned, but say the word, and we will shuffle everything around to your satisfaction.”
Liu Qingge gave Shizun a long look, then nodded. He focused back on little A-Jiu, murmuring to him and bouncing him in his arms. It was so strange to see Liu Qingge being so gentle, large hands petting little A-Jiu’s hair as if he was running his fingers against a delicate, precious lace.
Shizun loved his son with his whole-heart, even despite their relationship being as it was. It was good to see that little A-Jiu had someone else who loved him as much. Hopefully, it would help him recognize the love laced through all of Shizun’s actions as well.
They watched in silence as little A-Jiu started wiggling more, stretching his arms and legs till they slipped out of the sling. Liu Qingge undid it then, kneeling down so little A-Jiu could climb down.
“Good day, my prince,” Liu Qingge said, pressing a kiss to little A-Jiu’s cheek.
“Good day, baba.” Little A-Jiu yawned, rubbing a hand against his eyes. “Are we there yet?”
“We’ve arrived, yes. Come on, greet your Father.”
That seemed to wake little A-Jiu the rest of the way up. He straightened and tugged at his robes, smoothing out the wrinkles from their journey.
Shizun chuckled fondly, a sound filled with delight and love. “Greetings, A-Jiu. I’m so happy you could come for this visit.”
A-Jiu turned to Shizun and bowed, back perfectly straight. “Shen Jiu greets Father.” He glanced at Luo Binghe, green eyes wide in curiosity.
Luo Binghe grinned back and bowed, just as politely. “Luo Binghe greets Shen-shidi.”
“This Binghe is Father’s husband.” Shizun crouched down by little A-Jiu with a smile. “I’ve told you about him, remember? I often bring you the cakes he makes.”
“Master Luo is a great cook,” Little A-Jiu said, smiling with the tiniest bounce. He was adorable.
Luo Binghe chuckled and knelt down as well, following Shizun’s example. “Shen-shidi doesn’t need to be so formal with this Binghe. You can call this one Binghe or A-Luo if you prefer.”
“We both want you to feel comfortable here.” Shizun smiled kindly, running a loving hand across little A-Jiu’s head. “We have many fun things planned for today, but I thought we might start with tea and some snacks. My Binghe prepared all sorts of special sweets for you.”
Little A-Jiu’s eyes brightened at the mention of sweets. “Tea would be lovely, thank you,” he said, still perfectly polite. He was so sweet.
Liu Qingge chuckled, smiling fondly at little A-Jiu. “Tea sounds great. But first we’ll freshen up and change out of our traveling clothes.”
Shizun nodded. “Of course, take as much time as you need. I hope you enjoy your rooms, A-Jiu. Your Shang-shishu prepared them especially for you.”
“Shishu did?” A-Jiu blinked and turned his head side to side, looking around the room. His eyes went impossibly wide, his cheeks flushing.
Shizun chuckled fondly and stood up, patting little A-Jiu’s slim shoulder. “Why don’t you have a look around? I’m sure your Shang-shishu left you plenty of nice surprises.”
Little A-Jiu looked at up Liu Qingge, who nodded. “Go explore.”
Little A-Jiu grinned and did. He went to the instruments first, tugging on the strings and patting at the drum. Then he went to the weiqi table, from then to the balcony to admire the view. Next he rushed over to the little art cabinet, looking over everything with bright excited eyes. He touched each tapestry, shuffled his feet against each carpet.
Luo Binghe watched along with Shizun and Liu Qingge, but… it was a bit strange. Little A-Jiu was excited about everything, eyes bright, a big smile, wiggling and bouncing happily at each new treasure uncovered. And yet, he made no sound. No giggles, no excited exclamations, no squees. It was so strange watching a clearly excited boy be so silent.
“He’s so quiet,” Shizun murmured, sounding as surprised as Luo Binghe.
The look that earned from Liu Qingge was… oddly blank yet resentful. “Yeah. He is.”
Shizun flinched and hid behind his fan, eyes still trained on little A-Jiu. Luo Binghe watched Shizun instead, schooling his features not to show his worry. They would surely discuss whatever that was about later and Binghe would do everything he could to help.
Last, little A-Jiu reached the bookshelf. In short order he selected three books then climbed with them onto the soft chair. He opened one and started reading, curling up into a little ball with the book spread across his knees.
Liu Qingge laughed then, the sound loud and fond. It was a startling contrast to how quiet A-Jiu’s joy had been. “Okay, so that’ll take him a bit. Give us half a shichen, and we’ll be ready for that tea.”
Shizun nodded and shooed Luo Binghe out the door. “We’ll come collect you then,” he said and pulled the door closed.
Then he clasped his hands, his smile wide. “Did you see how happy A-Jiu was?” He did a little bounce himself, just as little A-Jiu had at the mention of sweets. “This is going well.” His tone was a bit hesitant, but joyful.
Luo Binghe smiled back. His Shizun was so beautiful when he smiled. He would personally make sure nothing destroyed his Shizun’s joy on this visit.
- - -
All right, so the visit hasn’t been going absolutely perfect so far. But it was fine, there had only been a couple small hiccups! Small was still okay, right? Just a few misspoken things. Liu Qingge didn’t seem too against them at least. Shen Yuan hadn’t gotten a reaction worse than a harsh look or a harsher tone, so it was probably all right.
And A-Jiu loved the room, that was a great plus already! Airplane had outdone himself, A-Jiu had been utterly delighted. And Liu Qingge always is more favorable when A-Jiu is happy, far fewer scowls and more allowances made. Perhaps absolutely perfect might be too much to hope for, but perfectly good would still be a success!
Especially with all the sweets and treats and cakes his Binghe had prepared for them. All of them looked delicious, a treat worthy of an emperor. Cinnamon had a strong scent and taste, but his Binghe had worked his magic and instead turned it into a subtle note in the smell and a delicious surprise in taste. A-Jiu was sure to love it! His Binghe worked so hard, and his cooking was always so superb, how could Shen Jiu not love it?
Shen Yuan watched as Shen Jiu sipped his tea, glancing curiously around the room. Shen Yuan had several interesting tapestries hung on the walls, depicting demonic myths (the less bloody ones), and he patted himself on the back for that forethought. They made for a good topic to discuss with Liu Qingge, and Shen Jiu stared at them with such bright eyes. Demonic art was so very different from human art and A-Jiu was sure to enjoy a lively discussion later on.
Shen Yuan smiled when Shen Jiu selected a little cake and lifted it to his mouth for a bite, eagerly waiting for his little face to light up in delight at the taste. Except Shen Jiu didn’t take that bite. He stopped and sniffed at the cake, little brows furrowing. He blinked, staring at it, then placed the cake back onto his plate.
What?
“A-Jiu, is something wrong?” Shen Yuan asked gently.
Shen Jiu looked up at him, the corners of his mouth dipping downwards.
Shen Yuan had no clue what could be wrong. He glanced at Liu Qingge, but he was discussing something about swords with his Binghe.
Perhaps A-Jiu was unsure about demonic cuisine? He shouldn’t be, humans could eat demonic food without nearly any issues, and his Binghe had prepared all of these the human way. “You don’t like it?” No, that couldn’t be it, Shen Jiu hadn’t tasted it yet. How could anyone dislike his Binghe’s cooking, he had protagonist skills. “You haven’t even tried it, perhaps you could try just a bite? Binghe prepared all of these himself, just for you.” Shen Yuan gave an encouraging smile, gesturing towards the little cake.
Shen Jiu did not look encouraged. He stared at Shen Yuan for a moment and swallowed thickly, so much so that Shen Yuan could hear it. He took a deep breath and reached for the treat, his fingers trembling ever so slightly.
Before he could even touch it, Liu Qingge grabbed the cake from his plate and brought it up to his nose. He sniffed, and his expression immediately darkened.
“Is this fucking cinnamon?”
Luo Binghe nodded, his brows knitting. “Yes. It’s a new spice in the demon realm, a delicacy.”
Liu Qingge glared at Shen Yuan, as hotly as he had during that first meeting after Shen Yuan had returned. “A-Jiu is allergic to cinnamon,” he growled
Shen Yuan blanched. “He is?”
Liu Qingge clenched his fist, crushing the treat in his hand “How can you not fucking know that?! He had his first allergic shock when he was four, you were still around then!” It was clear he wanted to keep yelling, but Shen Jiu grabbed his arm with a whispered “Baba...” and he subsided. He focused his spiritual energy around his hand to burn away the remnants of the treat, then focused on Shen Jiu, whispering with him.
Binghe jumped to his feet and started gathering up dishes. “Our sincere apologies, Liu-shishu, little A-Jiu. Shizun must’ve forgotten in the fervor of preparations. I will have these dishes removed immediately. Little A-Jiu, here.” He grabbed a plate of pink rice cakes and set it by Shen Jiu. “This has no cinnamon and has rose raspberry jelly inside. Shizun said you like it?”
Shen Jiu glanced at Shen Yuan, then nodded to his Binghe. “I do. Thank you, shixiong.”
“Good.” He grabbed the other dishes once more and hurried over to the side door. He called for a servant then just thrust the dishes into their arms, telling them to dispose of them immediately. That done, he returned to table and bowed. “Once again, my sincerest apologies.”
Shen Jiu gave a little smile, appearing mollified. Liu Qingge nodded as well, though he did send one more harsh glare towards Shen Yuan.
Shen Yuan stared back, still so shook he could hardly breathe. An allergy. An allergy severe enough to cause an allergy reaction. An allergy shock. And the worst thing? Shen Yuan kind of remembered. He remembered A-Jiu ending up on Qian Cao after eating something, he remembered being told of a food allergy. He remembered being annoyed at it, at having to watch out for something so his son wouldn’t die. He remembered not sparing a single moment of worry for his little tiny son. He remembered foisting watching out for the allergy on Ning Yingying and Ming Fan, not caring enough to even check whether they had informed the kitchen staff properly. He remembered not thinking about it again, not even after he returned.
He recalled how he’d tried to talk Shen Jiu into trying just one bite, so his Binghe wouldn’t be sad his cooking wasn’t being appreciated. He recalled how Shen Jiu had reached for that cake, prepared to take that damn bite.
“I am so sorry.” For today and for then. For being dismissive and stupid and blind. “A-Jiu, I am so sorry.”
Shen Jiu glanced at him, then down at his plate. “It’s all right, Father,” he murmured.
Shen Yuan shook his head slowly. “It really isn’t, A-Jiu. Father did you wrong, and he is so sorry. I will do better in the future, I promise.”
The look Shen Jiu gave him was a tad longer this time. He nodded, and Shen Yuan smiled gratefully. He didn’t know what he would’ve done if his baby had rejected him after this fuck up.
- - -
Liu Qingge was seething with rage. Well, perhaps not seething, not any more. He was definitely seething when Shen Qingqiu had tried to feed his prince poison – Mu-shidi had explained thoroughly that eating a food one was allergic to was akin to eating poison. But A-Jiu, sweet forgiving A-Jiu, so wanted this visit to go well, had been so excited for this visit, had barely managed to go to sleep the day before. Even now, he clutched tightly at Liu Qingge’s hand, tugging on it each time a seething scowl returned to his brow.
For A-Jiu, Liu Qingge swallowed down his rage. It still burned, mixed in with displeasure and disappointment in himself. He’d known Shen Qingqiu had neglected his prince, that he’d barely paid attention to anything at all concerning A-Jiu. If Shen Qingqiu had managed to convince him to try the cake, Liu Qingge would’ve been at fault as well.
That thought burned as hotly as his anger, shame pooling low in his belly like a hot piece of coal.
At least Shen Qingqiu had the decency of shame. He had barely spoken a word, face hidden behind that fan of his. His eyes weren’t downcast, but they remained unfocused, Shen Qingqiu clearly deep in thought. Liu Qingge hope he was thinking that hard about how bad of a father he was.
Liu Qingge thought often about how bad of a baba he was, for being so blind for so long, for ignoring so many signs. Yet here he was again, trying to trust Shen Qingqiu. He was trying because his prince wanted it so, his little hand so insistent in Liu Qingge’s. For A-Jiu, he would move mountains and change the very nature of his heart. It still burned like acid, though.
They arrived at a set of large wooden doors, which Luo Binghe pushed open with ease. “And here are the Palace Gardens,” he declared, gesturing grandly. At his side, Shen Qingqiu didn’t lower his fan, but he did seem to focus more, eyes trained on A-Jiu.
As the doors opened, A-Jiu sucked in a delighted breath, eyes wide as he gazed out at the greenery. The garden looked immense, full of growing things – from flowers so tiny they appeared like colorful dots to a giant tree with branches as thick as Liu Qingge was wide.
Liu Qingge put a hand on A-Jiu’s shoulder, tugging him close. “Are the plants safe?” He was not going to allow his precious son to be gobbled up by a lily or something.
“Perfectly.” Luo Binghe gave a confident smile. “Shizun personally placed protective arrays on all the dangerous plants.” He smiled brightly at Shen Qingqiu, who lowered his fan enough to reveal a hesitant smile of his own. “All the other plants are safe for little A-Jiu to inspect, touch and smell.”
Liu Qingge did not feel reassured, the fucking cinnamon too fresh in his mind. He’d just need to have A-Jiu stay close to him as they explored.
He once more took his prince’s little hand in his. “Let’s go, then,” he said with a smile and that was all A-Jiu needed.
Liu Qingge chuckled as he was instantly yanked forward and pulled towards the nearest flower. It had bright green petals and a yellow stem, with what looked like thorns growing out of the leaves.
“Baba, what is it?” Shen Jiu knelt down, leaning over the flower and inhaling delicately. “It smells like caramel.”
Liu Qingge crouched down beside his prince. “I don’t know.” He stared at his son’s curious expression for a moment, then looked over his shoulder at Shen Qingqiu, still standing by the doors. “Oi, Qingqiu! What plant is this?”
Shen Qingqiu startled and hurried over, finally lowering his fan. “Ah, this… this is the Reverse Bloom. It typically grows by the ocean as it feeds on salt.”
“Then how does it survive here?” A-Jiu asked, tilting his head so far to the right he essentially lay it against his shoulder. Liu Qingge chuckled to himself. His darling son was so cute.
Shen Qingqiu smiled gently. “We planted it nestled against a block of salt, and we use portals to import salt water fresh from the ocean.”
“Oh.” A-Jiu turned to Liu Qingge. “Baba, maybe we shouldn’t put it in the notebook.”
“Notebook?” Shen Qingqiu blinked in confusion, but Liu Qingge ignored it.
“Why not?”
“It’s rare,” Shen Jiu said in that insistent little way of his.
“What notebook?” Shen Qingqiu tried again, and Liu Qingge gave him a long look. Perhaps it wouldn’t hurt to explain, it wasn’t a secret after all.
“It’s a thing we do.” Liu Qingge procured it from his qiankun, nudging his prince playfully in the side with it. “Each time we travel or I go on a mission, we take a look at the plants and preserve any new ones we encounter.” He flipped the notebook open, each page decorated with a dried flower and with notes in A-Jiu’s elegant small calligraphy. “I don’t know if we can preserve any of the demonic flowers though.”
“How do you preserve it?” Shen Qingqiu peering closer, eyes wide with curiosity. He liked flora and fauna, Liu Qingge remembered. His prince took after him in that regard, and Liu Qingge couldn’t muster up any anger about it. His prince was just so cute when he was gushing about a plant or an animal.
“There are talismans sewn into the front and back covers.” A-Jiu explained while Liu Qingge flipped over to the inside of the front cover. He angled it so Shen Qingqiu could see the talisman.
“They instantly dry any flower closed within the pages,” he explained, then snapped the notebook shut.
Shen Qingqiu nodded. “Ah, I see.” He smiled at A-Jiu. “Then would A-Jiu like to preserve this flower?”
A-Jiu’s little brows knitted together. “But it’s rare.”
“Not really, they just don’t grow in this region. We have a few more, we just don’t plant them together because they always fight each other for the salt.” Shen Qingqiu grasped the plant by the base of the stem and pulled it up, roots and all. “It’s why they have these thorns on the leaves, do you see?”
Shen Jiu grabbed the notebook from Liu Qingge and flipped it over to a new page. He held it up towards Shen Qingqiu, waiting patiently for him to place the flower down. Once he did, A-Jiu brought the book close to his face so he could get a closer look, angling his head to see the thorns from all angles. His prince was so smart, knowing not to touch anything demonic. “These thorns are for fighting?”
“Oh yes.” Shen Qingqiu nodded, then glanced at Liu Qingge. He swallowed thickly. “If your baba permits it,” He looked down at Shen Jiu with a smile. “I would love to take you to see the ocean one day. We could find a patch of Reverse Blooms after a tide and watch them fight. It’s quite fascinating when they do that.”
A-Jiu immediately turned to Liu Qingge, eyes bright with excitement at the very idea. “Baba?”
Liu Qingge never did know how to say no to those eyes. “Sure. But not right now. It’s too cold by the ocean.”
A-Jiu closed the notebook, holding it against his chest as he turned to Shen Qingqiu. “Will Father wait for summer?”
And Shen Qingqiu, thankfully, smiled and nodded. “Father will wait as long as baba and A-Jiu require.” Liu Qingge didn’t know what he would’ve done if Shen Qingqiu insisted on going sooner.
His prince gave a brilliant smile, chirping a polite thank you. Then he stood up and pointed at a bell-shaped flower Liu Qingge was pretty sure had a horn growing from the inside. “What’s that?”
Shen Qingqiu got up as well and took A-Jiu’s hand, holding it gently. They walked over to the plant together, Shen Qingqiu explaining along the way as A-Jiu listened intently. Liu Qingge followed behind, watching them.
As long as his prince was happy and smiling, Liu Qingqiu would swallow anything.
- - -
Luo Binghe watched as Shizun knelt down by a patch of violet Soul Chewers, telling little A-Jiu about them. Little A-Jiu was listening intently, eyes wide and bright as he gazed from the flower to Shizun then back again.
Shizun looked so happy, getting to spend time with his son. Luo Binghe could watch him be this happy forever.
But then one of his stewards just had to amble over and ruin it for him. “My Lord.”
“I said I was not to be disturbed,” Luo Binghe murmured, dark energy gathering around him at the audacity of the disruption.
The demon fell into a kowtow but did not leave. “Deepest apologies, my Lord, but this matter can not wait a moment longer.”
“What matter?”
“One pertaining to Tialang Jun.”
Luo Binghe swore under his breath. Just what he needed, more trouble from his so called father. “Fine.” He put on a smile and called out. “Shizun, this husband must regrettably leave. An urgent matter has come up.”
Shizun looked up with a smile and an understanding look. “Of course, Binghe.” Shizun was always so understanding and patient, not minding even in inconvenient situations like this. “You will join us later, I trust? After the garden we might go to the main hall and see the paintings.”
“Father has paintings?” Little A-Jiu perked up, looking to Shizun eagerly. He was so cute, just like Shizun.
“Many paintings.” Shizun nodded with a radiant smile. “I’m sure A-Jiu will love them.”
Luo Binghe bowed gracefully and left them to it. This matter better not take long, he didn’t want to miss a moment of Shizun’s happiness.
- - -
Shen Yuan didn’t know how it happened. He truly didn’t.
They were in the main hall when it happened, discussing demonic art. Shen Jiu had been so interested, eyes bright as he listened to Shen Yuan explaining about the paintings and the scenes they were depicting. Shen Jiu asked so many smart questions, even Liu-shidi gave a comment or two, and Shen Yuan couldn’t wait to get a discussion going. Perhaps one about the cultural importance of blood in demonic art, it would certainly help Shen Jiu appreciate the art better.
But then it happened. And Shen Yuan didn’t know how.
Shen Jiu stepped away for one moment, curious eyes already fixed on the next painting. And then there were two demons by him. Two demons with weapons. Two demons with weapons aimed at Shen Jiu.
Shen Yuan grabbed his fan and sent a massive wave of qi towards the attackers. He angled it so it wouldn’t hit Shen Jiu as well, but it came with a cost – Shen Yuan got only one of the demons. It flew back, slamming into the wall with a wet squelch. The other didn’t pause, didn’t stop, and Shen Jiu was flinching away, little eyes so wide and-
Liu Qingge slammed Cheng Luan into the demon from above, cleaving it in half. Blood sprayed in all directions, covering the nearest painting in thick rivulets. Shen Yuan grabbed Shen Jiu and pulled him away from the spray, lifting him up into his arms. Shen Jiu was stiff, trembling all over, barely even blinking.
“A-Jiu?” Shen Yuan smoothed a hand down his hair. “A-Jiu, are you all right?”
Shen Jiu blinked, and tears welled up in his eyes. “Baba!” he cried, the tears falling down his cheeks.
Liu Qingge was by them instantly, pulling Shen Jiu from Shen Yuan’s arms and into his own. “I’m here, I’m here. Are you hurt? Did they touch you? Did the knives touch you?”
Shen Jiu didn’t answer any of the questions. He kept clinging to Liu Qingge, crying and hiding his face against his neck.
Liu Qingge held him close, staring from him to the halved demon to the knife lying discarded on the floor. Something dripped from its tip, sizzling as it hit the stone floor, and a look of rage settled over Liu Qingge’s features.
Shen Yuan’s eyes were prickling with his own tears. “Liu-shidi, I-”
His Binghe, along with a handful of guards, ran into the main hall, eyes frantic. “Shizun, what happened?! Are you all right?!”
“We’re leaving.” Liu Qingge declared, barely loud enough to be heard over Shen Jiu’s cries.
Shen Yuan flinched, panic welling up in his chest when Liu Qingge headed for the exit at a brisk pace. “Liu-shidi, no, please!” He hurried over, grasping Liu Qingge’s sleeve. He flinched when it was yanked from his hands, but he kept going, still following. “Liu-shidi, please, I am so sorry! I swear, this shouldn’t have been possible. My Binghe made the announcement personally, we made all the arrangements, I-”
Liu Qingge whirled around, his eyes ablaze with rage. “You swore that he would be safe!” he snarled, one hand cradling the back of Shen Jiu’s head gently. “That nothing would dare attack him, that he’ll be ‘perfectly safe and unharmed’! Those were your exact words!”
“Liu-shidi, I- I-”
“You better do something and actually make sure this hellscape is actually safe for A-Jiu or we are never coming here again!”
“Liu-shidi, please-” But Liu Qingge continued, too angry to listen.
“A-Jiu is tiny and he hasn’t even developed his golden core yet! What if that fucking knife had been poisoned?! Demonic poison could kill him dead! Stabbing could kill him dead! My baby nearly died today because you didn’t do your one job properly!” He whirled away from Shen Yuan and leapt onto Cheng Luan, flying swiftly away.
And Shen Yuan could do nothing but stare after them. His heart broke more and more with each second, chipping away bit by bit. The pain in his chest was horrid, so all encompassing he couldn’t even cry. It was all too much – his hopes shattered, his baby’s terrified tears, Liu Qingge’s rage, all the blood. There was too much for him, far too much, and as a result he felt… almost calm. The kind of calm that could only be found in the center of a storm.
His hands were trembling, he realized distantly.
“Shizun.” His Binghe was suddenly at his side. “Shizun, what happened?”
“We-” He had to pause to swallow. It was oddly difficult, as if his throat was too tight. “We were attacked.” He could still see Liu Qingge’s form, nothing more than a grey fleck in the horizon. It was getting smaller and smaller with every second, and Shen Yuan just wanted to follow them. Why couldn’t he follow them?
“Attacked?” His Binghe’s voice got low in anger, his eyes flashing red. “By those two demons in the hall?”
Oh, right. Those two. “Are they alive?”
“One is. I’ve had him sent to the dungeons.”
“You have?”
“Yes. He was armed, and I specifically banned weapons from being around little A-Jiu.”
His Binghe had, Shen Yuan remembered that. He’d been very firm and all the demons had looked cowed enough. Not those two. They had ignored a command from their Junshang. That should not be possible, his Binghe was so very formidable. Shen Yuan needed to learn why. He needed to learn why they had attacked his baby, they had so clearly been aiming for his A-Jiu. He needed to learn the reason and destroy it.
Nothing that could harm his baby could be allowed to exist.
“I want to speak to that one.” The gray fleck was almost too small to see, but Shen Yuan could still feel it. Still knew it was there, moving away from him.
“Shizun, perhaps you should rest first? You don’t…” A large hand touched his cheek, wiping something off it. “You are upset. I can brew you some tea.”
“No.” Tea was not a priority. A-Jiu was a priority.
Shen Yuan said nothing else. He turned on his heel and headed towards the dungeon. His Binghe scrambled after him, tucking Shen Yuan’s hand into the crook of his arm.
“I’ll accompany Shizun,” he murmured, but Shen Yuan didn’t answer.
- - -
He Quánli landed on the dungeon floor with a pained gasp. He was still woozy from being slammed into the wall, could feel some of his ribs were broken.
Their plan had failed. It had been a possibility, of course, how could it not with such powerful opponents. Still, they had such high hopes. The moment had seemed so perfect – both Consort Shen and the human cultivator had been looking at the paintings and not at the Shen boy. Then the Shen boy had moved away! Not far enough to grab but certainly enough to stab. Or so they had assumed.
Yu Zhengyu was most certainly dead. He Quánli had been too disoriented to see what happened exactly, but he did spot a gray blur and a massive amount of blood, meaning the human cultivator must’ve gotten to him. He Quánli should consider himself lucky to still be alive.
Or perhaps not.
He scrambled to his knees when Junshang entered the cell, nearly slamming his forehead against the ground as he kowtowed. “My Lord!”
“Why have you attacked my Consort’s child?” Junshang demanded, the dark aura around him like a wall of malice.
“My Lord, we did it for you!” He Quánli cried, kowtowing again, ignoring the painful twinge in his ribs. “With the Shen boy gone, your Consort would be free to dedicate his time to you and begetting your true heir! The line of succession needs to be clear!” Without a clear line of succession, there could only ever be a war. Even with an heir, it was still a possibility. As an elder in his clan, He Quánli knew that far too well, had seen it happen so many times before. The Shen boy muddled things too much for it to be ignored.
Junshang snorted, clearly disagreeing. “Is that your reasoning? It is weak and presumptuous of you, thinking you could dictate anything in this Lord’s life.”
Oh, He Quánli understood now. Junshang had wanted to deal with the Shen boy himself. “My Lord, this humble servant-”
“Silence.” Junshang’s order rang out like a death toll. His tone then gentled, as it always did for one person only. “Shizun?”
Consort Shen stepped into the cell. He looked the same as he had moments before the attack, yet something seemed off. It might be the blank expression or the tight press of his lips. He Quánli cursed himself and kowtowed again. Humans were so strangely attached to their young. He’d disregarded this part during the planning, so certain he would have Junshang’s protection after the Shen boy had been disposed of. That was very clearly not the case.
“You did this.” Consort Shen’s blank expression did not change. “Because of you, my baby had to leave. We’d prepared so much and now he won’t get to experience it. He’s not here anymore. Because of you.” The words were mild. The tone and expression were not.
He Quánli gulped, paling from his horns to his toes. While still human, Consort Shen was a cultivator of great strength. He was known, among others, for his blade, Xiu Ya and its ability to cleave demons in two with one swipe.
Consort Shen unsheathed said blade now and stepped towards him.
- - -
Shen Yuan knocked on the door of Liu Qingge’s house, clenching his hand to stop its trembling. He probably shouldn’t be here, not so soon after the disastrous visit. Barely a day has passed, but he couldn’t bare to wait any longer. He needed to apologize, to make Liu Qingge understand, to ensure Shen Jiu was truly all right, and that his baby wasn’t having nightmares again. It was the last thing Shen Yuan ever wanted.
Liu Qingge opened the door and Shen Yuan immediately dropped down to his knees, kowtowing. “Liu-shidi, I beg your forgiveness. We- I had been too confident in presuming all the demons would comply with my Binghe. I should have paid more attention to the demons closest to us.”
“You should have.” Liu Qingge hissed, arms crossed tightly across his chest. “They nearly stabbed my prince! And Mu-shidi said that any type of demonic poison would’ve been fatal for A-Jiu!”
Shen Yuan felt like he might vomit. “Is he-?” He couldn’t finish, the thought alone was too horrid. A-Jiu was so small, yet the hole he would leave if he died would be too great to bear.
Liu Qingge glared down at Shen Yuan for a moment more, then looked over his shoulder, towards where Shen Yuan assumed Shen Jiu was. “He’s fine, at least physically. Mu-shidi hadn’t found a single scratch or nick on him, which is the only reason you’re still allowed on my peak.”
“Oh, thank God.” Shen Yuan slumped with relief, tears in his eyes. “Thank God, thank God, thank God.” He sniffled, then focused back on his task. “I can assure you, Liu-shidi, that this time we have the situation well in hand. My Binghe is right now performing an exodus of all the demons who share the conspirators’ views. I personally took care of the one you hadn’t killed, look.” He tugged the box he’d brought closer, pulling the lid open. Inside was what remained of the demon – a pulverized head and some limbs. “See?”
Liu Qingge stepped forward and pulled the door closed behind him. “Good, but close it!”
“But I-”
Liu Qingge crouched down and closed the lid himself. “I don’t want A-Jiu to see and get upset. He has this thing about dismemberment.”
“He- he does?” Shen Yuan paled. Please don’t be memories of his previous life, oh please, oh please, oh please.
Liu Qingge grimaced. “Yeah. One time one of my uncles told him this tale in which the evildoer was punished by having all his limbs ripped off, and A-Jiu had cried for a whole week, barely slept. We had to increase his spirit healing sessions with Dong Bao before it started getting better. A-Niang is still mad at that fool uncle.”
Shen Yuan bit his lip to stop his sobs from escaping and hung his head. His baby couldn’t remember, the System had promised A-Jiu’s memories had been wiped clean, System had promised.
Stupid, useless fucking System. Stupid, useless fucking Shen Yuan.
He wasn’t certain how long he sat there, sobbing on the ground like a child. His baby had almost died, and the visit had been supposed to be perfect, he’d worked so hard, he had. He just wanted his baby to like him.
Shen Yuan startled when Liu Qingge suddenly gave him an awkward pat on the shoulder. “Qingqiu.” He paused, his lips twisting into a grimace. But then he sighed, shoulders slumping. “I know you’re trying.” He scowled. “But you can’t let shit like that slip by you again. A-Jiu is tiny and defenseless, but curious and trusting. He isn’t vigilant of his surrounding when he’s with us, because he trusts us to take care of him. You have to honor that and do fucking better.” He sighed again, then looked over his shoulder towards the door with a fond smile. “A-Jiu is also far too forgiving. Despite that fuckery, he’d also been upset that our visit got cut short.”
Shen Yuan blinked back his tears, a smile on his face and warmth in his chest. “Really?”
“Yes.” Liu Qingge stared at Shen Yuan for a moment with a tight expression, then huffed. “You want to come in? A-Jiu is just about to start his music practice, Dong Bao said it’s important to keep to his normal routine. It’s the qin today.”
Shen Yuan nodded, wiping his face with his sleeve. “I would love to. Thank you. Thank you, Liu-shidi.”
“Mn.” Liu Qingge’s expression did not match the gift he’d given Shen Yuan. He looked pained, his lips still pursed. “Just don’t fuck up again,” he growled and opened the door. “A-Jiu, your Father came for a visit!”