Work Text:
“Where are you going?” Feng Xin asked Mu Qing, who was just about to slip past the gates unnoticed.
Mu Qing had frozen at the call but relaxed when he saw it was just Feng Xin who had caught him sneaking out.
“I hate it here,” he said plainly, continuing his steps outside the yard and the motionless guards.
Feng Xin wordlessly followed after him, not bothering to ask any questions. He knew Mu Qing wasn't the type to socialize, much less with people he didn't know well, and with the crowd of stuck up officials, who wouldn't suffocate in such a formal atmosphere. Feng Xin didn't say it, but he too was eagerly looking for an opening to leave.
“Where are we going?” he called, quickening his steps to catch up with Mu Qing who had turned towards the stables.
“I was going for a ride, you are welcome to join.” Mu Qing said over his shoulder but Feng Xin caught the light smile on his face regardless.
They reached the stables and the man in charge let them through without so much as a question. After all, who would dare question General Nan Yang and General Xuan Zhen, no matter what they were up to.
Mu Qing made his way towards his white steed, a creature he doted on and adored with all his heart. Feng Xin watched the other pat Xiao fēng affectionately and murmur sweetly to her. The horse neighed its pleasure and snuggled up to Mu Qing's face affectionately.
"Coming?" Mu Qing asked, Feng Xin pulled himself out of his daze, where he was mindlessly watching Mu Qing get on his horse.
He smiled before mounting his own XiaoXia, patting it lovingly. He looked back at Mu Qing, who was uncharacteristically watching him with an open expression. When caught staring he blushed but his eyes never shied.
Feng Xin felt a wave of fondness for his lover, looking as beautiful and pristine in his purple robes and white flowing cape. His pale face betrayed its usual stoic and unnerved steel with that pink tint spread across his cheeks; perhaps he was tired, but Feng Xin knew the blush forming on his cheeks was his fault, Mu Qing was quite easily flustered under his gaze. The stables weren't bright, with only the light that filtered from a few windows available, but Feng Xin could clearly see the red of Mu Qing’s cheeks, his lips, the defined yet delicate curve of his jaw; how the dark purple and white attire only served to make him look even more bewitching than usual. Mu Qing narrowed his eyes after a moment, when Feng Xin didn’t stop staring, then rode out the stables.
Feng Xin spluttered in surprise then chuckled as he rode close behind. .
When he finally caught on, Mu Qing turned his head towards him, Feng Xin could not stop himself as his breath hitched with the sight of his beloved; beautiful and elegant as he always was, the wind in his hair gave him a heavenly allure. His face in a small smile that could rival the sunlight; able to heal the most stricken of souls, tearing through the fields they had rode into and his eyes twinkling with the pleasure of riding freely and unrestrained.
Feng Xin very well knew those feelings, but Mu Qing had always loved riding without a destination, racing the winds and clouds, without looking back. He has once told Feng Xin , brushing the loose hair from his bun off his face, that galloping through the lands on top of a steed made him feel free and unchained. He did not specify if he referred to his duties and worries as the Imperial advisor or the boulders of his past.
“Stop staring,” Mu Qing chided playfully, bumping into his horse with his own.
“You look beautiful,” Feng Xin blurted, unabashed as always. Mu Qing's eyes went wide in shock for a moment before he wrinkled his nose in mock distaste but he could not hide the smile that Feng Xin's compliment brought him and Feng Xin reveled in it.
“You don't look too bad yourself, General.” Mu Qing pointed to Feng Xin’s chest, where adorned a red jaded golden pin Xie Lian had given him earlier.
Feng Xin had long been promoted to the Commander in Chief for the Imperial army but only today had he officially been bestowed the title by The Emperor in front of the entire court and officials.
He was dressed in his more formal uniform, the sword by his side was not the one he used in battle , more of a decoration. For today, he was not to be troubled with the emperor or his husband's safety. It was indeed a special occasion.
After the ceremonies had concluded, Xie Lian hardly had time for them before he was swarmed by officials and neighboring empire guests. He had given them both a small sad smile and whispered that he'll catch up with them later.
No matter if today's banquet was to honor Feng Xin's great efforts during the Xianle war and his lead to their victory, or to welcome Mu Qing back home from the enemy's hold he had been for the last fourteen months. In the end, Xie Lian was still the emperor and he always had matters that needed attention.
But neither of them were disappointed. It had been a month since Mu Qing came back, more or less alive, but successful in his infiltration. And by the time Mu Qing came home, Xianle had already won the war against Wuyong… Xie Lian, who had been tough and unmoving as a rock throughout the whole war, teared up when he saw Mu Qing. And when the latter had bowed down before him , Xie Lian had sunked to his knees to hug him in his arms.
Feng Xin was too stunned that day to express any real emotions. But he made up for the losses and their long separation in different ways.
"Race me," Mu Qing's voice cut through his train of thoughts and Feng Xin lifted his gaze from Mu Qing's slender fingers on the reins to face the owner of those hands.
Those hands that wore a plain gold band on a finger. Feng Xin wore an identical silver one. They were a set and carried the many words Feng Xin wasn't able to voice, the many expressions and feelings he didn't know how to express but even more importantly, it represented Feng Xin's unwavering love for Mu Qing, and in return Mu Qing's complete trust in Feng Xin's loyalty.
They raced through the wheat fields until they left those behind and galloped into the plain grounds with miles and miles of sand and patches of greenery in sight.
Sometimes Feng Xin would lead and most of the others, Mu Qing would pass him but neither of them went too far from each other; always near enough to hear the others call of their names.
The sun's red and orange threw a veil over the expanse of land the eye could see, it dipped below the horizon, the last gasp of beauty before the death of day, casting its warmth gradually being replaced by the coolness of the stars at the two souls that had come to stop over a field of marigold and lavender.
"This looks like the southeast agriculture grounds," Feng Xin said to no one in particular, seeing the wide fields of many different grains and vegetables.
Mu Qing however looked like he was dazed at the sight… his eyes were seeing but his mind was not here, but he did not look in distress.
"Mu Qing," Feng Xin called and Mu Qing turned his face to meet his eyes. He blinked, realizing his daze.
"What were you thinking about?" Feng Xin pulled xiao feng to stand touching Mu Qing's horse so that both of their legs were touching from thigh down.
Mu Qing was not a short man but his shoulders were dropped, a hint of sadness in his form at the sight ahead that Feng Xin did not ask about. He saved it for another day.
“Wuyong had fields like these, one of my contacts while under cover was a local farmer who was a retired viceroy.” Feng Xin did not interrupt and watched the side of Mu Qing's face remember while he looked at the sun on the horizon.
“He had a daughter at the age of 6,” Mu Qing paused, then turned to Feng Xin once again, a small sad smile on his usual composed features, "I couldn't save her father"
Feng Xin's heart ached; Mu Qing was rarely open like this... save for a few times he opened himself raw and vulnerable with his words towards Feng Xin. Feng Xin took Mu Qing's hand in his own, clasping them together so that their rings clinked with each other.
Mu Qing ran a thumb over Feng Xin's knuckles, his pale soft and tender fingers contrasting with Feng Xin's own callused ones.
"You are only human, you are not to blame" Feng Xin knew Mu Qing knew this better than anyone and Mu Qing nodded,
It was war, blood was bound to spill...but Feng Xin thought that perhaps that child had come to be special to Mu Qing, someone he doted on like he did to children, or perhaps she was the one who made her way into Mu Qing's heart which he so strongly claims to be cold and unmoving.
He wordlessly lifted their joined hands to his lips and kissed the back of Mu Qing's knuckles. Mu Qing rolled his eyes but smiled fondly at his betrothed… they had come a long way from the time when Feng Xin hesitated and shied from displays of affection and Mu Qing rejected his touches and kisses— not because he was unwilling, but he could not deal with the storm in his mind and body when Feng Xin caressed or kissed him.
A war, more than an year apart, and standing on the mouth of death without the other by your side does that to you , Feng Xin thinks.
They both dismounted and, taking advantage of the abandoned surroundings, walked holding hands on the path between the various fields of wheat and rice, conversing lightly.
"I still don't like the official affairs," Mu Qing said in barely concealed displeasure, struggling to keep his overflowing robes from his feet. Feng Xin laughed at him trying and failing to not stumble but made no move to help him.
“Jerk.” Mu Qing huffed at him and Feng Xin affectionately stuck a tongue at him. The agricultural grounds seemed to be spread over miles but it quickly came to an end leading both men to green fields of long grass and hills. The sun almost set, its hue casted fainting light at the grass and on Mu Qing's face. Before Feng Xin could start waxing poetic however Mu Qing hit him.
“Stop staring at me! gods, what is wrong with you, it's as if you're looking for the first time.”
Feng Xin shrugged, a little embarrassed he rubbed the back of his neck.
"It's not often i see you dressed like—" he waved a hand towards Mu Qing's attire and the latter followed his hands to look at his white inner robes, accompanied by a dark purple over gown with golden threaded flowers delicately sewn over it, accompanied by a darker purple cloak, it’s ends of white bears skin fur. He plucked his sleeve with two fingers and admitted the gold work was one done by talented hands.
Mu Qing hummed,
"It's nice," Feng Xin said, resuming walking without Mu Qing this time. The other gathered his over luxurious robes and caught up with him.
"I don't like these,” he said lightly, Feng Xin knew he was just saying that because he was bound by habit to be nitpicky and difficult, "they look too much like Xie Lian, and they make it hard for me to be quick if someone attacks"
“No one will attack,” Feng Xin gently scolded “We’re past the war and such times. Today is a day to celebrate our kingdom's victory and pay respects to the fallen. You don't have to be alert, just for today.”
Mu Qing knew that, he lifted his hands to cover Feng Xin's own that were holding his shoulders.
“I know, but you know more than me that we can never be safe. We're the Imperial Generals, tied to the Emperor and as long as Xie Lian stays in power, we stay on duty.”
“Ok, fine fine i know,” Feng Xin rolled his eyes but he wasn't angry, "Still, let's have fun only tonight, after all Xie Lian put you in such lavish clothes because he said it was a day to reward your efforts."
“It's a day for you Mu Qing,” Xie Lian had said fixing the waist belt on Mu Qing's inner robes, “white suits you, you should wear it more often.” Mu Qing had clicked his tongue, pfft-ing lightly
“There!” Xie Lian had announced giving him a once over, he had put a thoughtful hand under his chin humming before calling Hua Cheng who had been leaning on Mu Qing's door the whole time.
“What do you think dear, doesn't Mu Qing look so gentle and beautiful in this?”
“Mhm,” Hua Cheng said, giving an honest look at Mu Qing. “As always, Husband has the best taste.”
After Xie Lian had left the room, leaving the two of them alone, fixing his own sleeves in the mirror Hua Cheng remarked casually,, “you look much better in your imperial uniform, but indulge gege for one night.”
He turned to leave but paused, turning his head over to throw one last look and left after saying, "besides, you don't look half bad either, Nan Yang will appreciate it."
Turns out the annoying brat was right, Feng Xin was appreciative of Mu Qing's more... delicate appearance. It made wearing such overbearing clothes worthwhile.
“How come Xie Lian didn't put you in ceremonial robes and let you wear your uniform?”
“I ran away.” Feng Xin informs mischievously, remembering how he had ghosted a confused Xie Lian all day and hid until he had given up and told someone to put the newly stitched robes away.
Mu Qing scoffed, eyeing him in mock threat, "cheater."
"Am not! You just didn't put up a fight."
"It's not like I knew you would play tricks, you little shit, I'm not good at cheating."
“Ha! Look who's talking.”
"Also, it's good that you aren't wearing these," Mu Qing pointed at his feet, "with your ungraceful feet you would be tripping every three steps"
Feng Xin spluttered at the indignation, “Who said so, I can handle a gown.”
“Really?” Mu Qing raised an eyebrow, smiling mischievously.
“Yes!” Feng Xin puffed his chest out and said, resolute.
But his breath was knocked out of him when Mu Qing poked him with one single finger , yet enough strength for him to lose his footing and fall down the hills rolling in the grass.
But of course, with the two of them there was hardly ever a win. Before he tumbled down, Feng Xin had grabbed Mu Qing’s arm, then his ankle and brought him down with himself. Both their bodies rolled in the grass, down the small hill before they stopped. It took a moment before they were able to sort out the mess of limbs and laid down side by side.
They were both out of breath and laughing, chests heaving but smiles so wide and warmth spread through their bodies.
They laid there, pressed together and watched the sky where groups of stars with lazy eyes scattered around the moon. ... The silver light like beautiful flowers, or star dish which had been splashed over a silken black sheet.
"The robes are ruined," Mu Qing said, only mildly concerned as he pushed himself to sit up. The sky had gotten darker when they had laid here in silence, the last rays of the sun overtaken by the ink of the night; only the twinkle of silver lighting the fields below.
Feng Xin made no such move to get up, instead he pillowed his head in both his hands, smiling as he looked up at the stars. Mu Qing couldn't help the smile that crawled on his lips, the sight of Feng Xin, happy in a carefree way, had been a rarity for a long time.
"Stop staring at me," Feng Xin said, an echo of Mu Qing's words from before. Mu Qing flushed, cheeks heating at being caught but he kept his eyes fixed on Feng Xin, who sighed in defeat and turned his eyes to meet Mu Qing.
"What?" He asked, playfully exasperated.
Mu Qing, who uncharacteristically didn't retort, only shook his head. Feng Xin watched Mu Qing turn where he sat, slowly as if not to break the moment, put both hands on the grass, caging Feng Xin where he lay.
Feng Xin blinked slowly, his heart beat suddenly spiking in speed. Mu Qing tentatively, almost shyly, leaned down to capture Feng Xin's lips. It wasn't electric, but Feng Xin still felt the strength in his limbs leave him when Mu Qing took his lips, slowly nipping at his skin exploring his mouth, slow and languid.
When they parted, Mu Qing shifted, quickly turning to sit back when Feng Xin caught his wrist, holding him there. He took his time to catch his breath, eyes never leaving Mu Qing's face that's flushed pink… he knows he's not any better, something about the way Mu Qing kissed him- a level of intimacy Feng Xin thinks they haven't experienced before.
Maybe it's the stars and the grass, he thought.
"You okay?" He asked, just to be sure. Mu Qing hummed, smiling reassuringly like he caught the line of Feng Xin's thoughts. He probably has. They know each other well.
Mu Qing placed his hand on both sides of Feng Xin's face, his cool palms and slender fingers cupping Feng Xin's face and he yelped when Mu Qing squeezed his face.
"You look like a fish," Mu Qing said, making them both laugh at how ridiculous and childish the atmosphere had gotten. Feng Xin doesn't mind it at all.
"Anything on your mind?" Feng Xin asked again, and Mu Qing pushed him aside huffing.
"Gods above. Feng Xin, I kiss you once and you start questioning my rational,"
Feng Xin jutted his lips, feeling misunderstood. He propped himself on his elbows to face Mu Qing better, "I didn't think that, I just-"
"Never mind, do it again." Feng Xin demanded. Mu Qing rolled his eyes, but complied, bringing their faces close. Before Feng Xin could even feel the close proximity, Mu Qing brought one hand forward and shoved him again. Feng Xin once again losing his balance, fell with a huff on the grass.
He turned to glare at Mu Qing who looked way too smug at his accomplishment. It was Feng Xin's turn to roll his eyes.
Mu Qing gathered his robes, (Feng Xin didn't think they were that big, but Mu Qing still made a big deal out of it, as expected) and turned to leave. But Feng Xin was faster. He leaped, tackling him onto the ground. The two of them laughed, half play fighting as they rolled on the dirt and earth. Neither putting much strength into their hits but still, neither backing down as they sparred like kids.
In the end, Mu Qing's robes came to use, making him fall and Feng Xin quickly jumped on top of him, restraining his legs with his, and holding his hands down…
Mu Qing struggled, but Feng Xin was just a tad bit stronger and broader than him. And Mu Qing wasn't actually trying to break free.
"Seriously, Feng Xin," Mu Qing groaned, "what are you, ten years old?"
"Yes," Feng Xin grinned all teeth and Mu Qing laughed unbelievingly at his ridiculously dumb lover.
Feng Xin, making good use of the restraint, kissed Mu Qing over and over again despite his half hearted struggles… His kisses went from playful pecks to deeper, more heated kisses and soon Mu Qing's struggles ceased. He freed his hands to wrap them tightly around Feng Xin's shoulder, pulling him closer until there was but no distance between their bodies.
They let each other fall into the other's embrace, whispering softly and panting lightly; with no one but the stars to witness their love.
When the two Generals returned to the palace, it was almost dawn. The sky had started to turn more and more bright and the birds' song was the only sound in the courtyard.
The banquet was long over, only a few servants passing the halls, quiet on their feet as if not to break the peaceful quiet that was draped over the palace.
Feng Xin and Mu Qing walked hand in hand, the servants quietly bowing to them as they passed; if some of them smiled at their entwined hands, they made sure not to let them see.
Feng Xin exited Xie Lian's chamber, relieved once he had seen him and his husband safe and sound, sleeping peacefully. The guards on the door acknowledged him with a quiet salute as he passed.
Feng Xin walked to Mu Qing who had waited outside, took his hand in his own, their rings clinking at the contact, and led him to their chamber.
It was yet another day, another daybreak bringing another bout of problems and duties but for now; just for the remaining hours of peace, they could sleep in each other's embrace, forgetting the world and the worries of it.