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Binghe sat on a rock and cried and cried.

He could not help himself. He had promised to be strong for his mama but he wasn't sure he could. Not today.

And it all started out well. Binghe felt so proud! Before his mama left for work, she had given him a few coins she had managed to save up. It was Binghe's birthday and they were going to celebrate! Sadly his mama had to work longer today because the manor had a celebration a few days before and now had a lot of laundry to be washed. Binghe was ready to wait another day or two but his mama wouldn't have it. She said Binghe was a big boy now and he could go to the market himself today. His task was to buy a few ingredients for tonight's meal. Since he was already helping with the cooking, he knew what they needed for the congee and he had some ideas for a side dish or two!

The market wasn't too scary. He'd been there with his mama many times and he knew which sellers were kind and would offer a good deal and which ones would rather shoo him away and pretend he didn't exist even though he had money.

A kind aunty had sold him a few vegetables and even added a little something extra after finding out it was his birthday. (She had asked where his mama was and Binghe dutifully explained.) An uncle helped him choose a little bit of meat that hadn't spoiled but maybe wasn't as fresh as it could be— but the uncle sold it to him for a lower price than it originally was! Luckily they still had some rice at home because it meant Binghe could splurge on it.

Feeling very satisfied, Binghe had just one more stall he wanted to check. He wasn't sure if the coin he had left would be enough but it wouldn't hurt to try!

Hurrying over to the stall, Binghe had just turned the street corner—

and a large carriage nearly ran him over. All Binghe had time to do was jump out of the way with how fast it was barreling down the street. He felt the wind woosh as the side of the carriage was just a breath away from his face. In his moment of panic, everything he was holding had been dropped and trampled first by the horses and then by the wheels. Nothing was left intact.

Binghe stood there in a daze, the shock and fright fading into anger.. and then deflating into sadness.

Breathing heavily, he looked at the last coin he had left. Too little to rebuy even a single vegetable.

The stall forgotten, Binghe turned back and walked away.

(And this was the tragic scene witnessed by a passing transmigrator on his way to watch the courting rituals of the Peacock Sparrows. It had been said the music they produced during this period was like nothing else in this world.)

A quiet cough brought Binghe out of his pity party. Slowly uncurling from his hunched position, Binghe peeked out at whoever was standing nearby.

Wearing brilliant light blue robes, the most handsome pretty man Binghe had ever seen was extending him (him!) a delicate looking handkerchief. (Binghe couldn't help notice that he also had a sword!! Binghe had never gotten to see any cultivators up close before!) Binghe stared dumbfounded for apparently too long as the stranger gave a quiet little sigh before very gently cradled his face and wiped the snot off and onto the rather expensive handkerchief.

"Ah, no, Immortal Cultivator's handkerchief..!" Binghe cried out. "It's ruined now!!"

"Nonsense, child." The man continued to carefully clean Binghe's face until he was satisfied. Binghe sat through it all in a daze. No one had ever done this to him except for his mother. He couldn't help blush, feeling rather embarrassed in front of this perfect man.

"There, that's much better now, isn't it?"

Binghe obediently nodded.

The man smiled and it was like the sun had come out after the rain, parting the gloomy clouds of the day's tragedy.

"Now why don't you tell this master what happened to cause you to cry alone out here?"

The cultivator's words reminded Binghe of what happened and he had to bite his lip and keep his eyes wide in an attempt to not cry again. He felt a gentle caress on his head as the man seemed to pet his hair trying to sooth him.

His lips wobbled before he felt his eyes tear up once more.

"This clumsy one dropped all his shopping.." he sniffled, before wiping his nose with his sleeve. "And wasted all his money.."

"Oh," the man said. "You're a big boy to already be doing shopping on your own."

Binghe shook his head.

"No, this one messed it all up!"

The cultivator seemed to hum as he contemplated something. Distractingly tapping a finger to his lips, he came to a conclusion. "Why doesn't this master help you with your shopping?"

Binghe gasped. He couldn't believe it!

"T-This one doesn't have any more money.."

"Well isn't it good that this master does then," he smiled.

Binghe still could not believe it but the beautiful man took his hand (Binghe wasn't a baby to have to hold hands anymore but he really didn't want the man to know this!) and they walked back to the market.

Binghe tried to only buy the very basic ingredients he would need for dinner but the cultivator didn't seem to take his hints. Nearly anything Binghe looked at was bought! He had tried to keep his eyes from wandering but still in the end they were walking back to Binghe's home carrying rice, two (2!!) different kinds of meats, a bunch of vegetables (some of which Binghe had never even tasted yet!) and even some fruits. Even his super sneaky glance at the spice stand was noted and he had five different satchels of spices to try out!

Binghe was walking on clouds but also felt very anxious— how was he supposed to repay the beautiful amazing generous cultivator?! None of his suggestions were accepted and at the end of his wits, he proposed to cook for the cultivator.

"It's the least this one could do! Please allow me to cook for Immortal Master!" he nearly kneeled down but the man did not allow him and caught him before he could fall to his knees.

"It's really not necessary—"

"Please!!"

..The cultivator could not say no to those puppy eyes and reluctantly agreed.

With his permission, as soon as they reached home, Binghe began to cook the tastiest recipes he knew! (Not that he knew many but at least with so many new ingredients, he tried to be very careful and improvise to the best of his ability.) He made a very appealing congee using some of the meat and vegetables as toppings. He made a few very small side dishes as well just because he could.

Carefully he brought over the dishes to the table where the cultivator was sitting. (He was already sipping on some tea that he had also bought for Binghe and then made himself as he would not let Binghe brew it saying he couldn't just sit and not help with anything. Binghe didn't agree and tried to argue that he was a guest but alas he wasn't able to win.

He had to admit, the tea was delicious. He spied on the man's technique hoping to try to replicate it later.)

Presented with the spread, the cultivator smiled.

"This looks very good!" he said looking very appreciative.

Handing over a pair of chopsticks and a spoon to the man, he watched with anticipation as his stomach twisted from anxiety. (He also gave the man his own cutlery since they really only had two pairs and it seemed worse to give him his mother's.)

As soon as the man took a bite of the congee, his eyes lit up.

"This is delicious!" he exclaimed. He seemed so pleased and surprised, and he took another spoonful as though he could not help himself.

Binghe preened at the praise, watching the man's every action, worried to miss even a single thing.

"Are you only going to watch this master eat?" the cultivator joked. "Or will you sit down to eat and keep this humble cultivator company?"

Binghe instantly dropped down into the other chair, nearly flipping over the table in his haste to sit down. The man was just amused as Binghe blushed.

Together they enjoyed the meal while the cultivator encouraged Binghe to eat more since he was such a growing boy. He even allowed Binghe to ask him all sorts of questions about cultivators!

..Some time into a retelling of an adventure the cultivator had found himself in (something to do with Demonic Anglerfish Butterflies that were really neither fish nor insects,) Binghe could feel himself droop and start nodding off. He tried to stay awake, how could he fall asleep with a guest!! But his body betrayed him.

The last thing Binghe remembered was a strong pair of arms picking him up and gently tucking him into the bed.

(Seeing the child happily napping, the transmigrator had to smile. The kid worked hard and was just too cute!

Sadly he couldn't stay any longer if he wanted to be on time to witness the Peacock Sparrows. He left a small pouch of the money he still had on himself— a lot less than he wanted but it should help the family out for a bit at least— and walked out.)

Later his mother came home to a whole feast and actually had a meal where she did not have pretend she wasn't hungry anymore (though it would be a few years more until Binghe realized that was even something she was doing.)

The money the cultivator left was rationed (and lasted them for a good while) but Binghe did insist on a warmer robe for his mother! Who then insisted on a warmer robe for Binghe as well.

That winter was one of the warmest they ever had.

This was one of Binghe's fondest days to look back to.

His mother's happiness.. and the cultivator's smile were both imprinted in his memory.

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The quiet crackling of the fire in the kitchen soothed Luo Binghe's terrible headache. As a Heavenly Demon Emperor, one would think such mortal ailments would stop but maybe it was his half-human nature that caused this defect in him. Maybe full Heavenly Demons did not get headaches. Or maybe it was a condition that plagued many a demon or immortal who had to have as many stupid meetings as Luo Binghe had to. Being an emperor of all the realms was a shit job. The conquest was alright, both invigorating and grueling misery. By the tenth cunt he stuck his dick in, even that was just the same old. How much of a connection could you have with someone only interested in you for your power? He loved them once, yes, or at least thought he did love some of them. By now he wasn't sure.

He did not want to think about the peasant farmer who's body was bitten in half as he charged a demonic beast a million times his might. The anguished cries of his wife who's chest was torn open by the very same beast as she tried to save her husband. Cradling his upper half, they both bled.

They died in each other's arms.

In a harem of three hundred, Luo Binghe wasn't sure a single wife of his would die for him. Oh, they'd fight for him, they'd live for him, but no one would die for him. They would laugh it off, how could Luo Binghe, the great Demonic Emperor, die? As though many haven't tried to kill him and yet here he still was. Unkillable. Unbeatable.

..Unloved in any real way that mattered.

—The sound of a pot dropping shattered the gentle atmosphere. As Luo Binghe grimaced, his temple throbbing in pain with the loud noise, a serious of curses were heard coming from his *personal* and very *off limits* kitchen. What servant dared to taint his sanctuary!

Intending to kill the trespassing bastard, Luo Binghe barged into the kitchen— only to see.. a child.

Pitiful, wearing robes too big for him, and staring with annoyance at a overturned pot on the floor. Whatever had spilled from it smells horrible to Luo Binghe's sensitive nose. The viscous substance dark and lumpy, barely resembling anything edible. It did not help his headache.

"What is *that*?" he growled, his voice reverberating around the whole space.

Black frightened eyes snapped up, gazing at him in terror. He could see how the kid turned pale from the shock and it only took a moment for him to tremble as full understanding came over him. He knew he was not supposed to be here.

"I-I-I.. w-was.."

"Out with it, boy."

"C-Congee.. I-I was m-making it.."

Luo Binghe raised an eyebrow.

"And why were you cooking?"

The boy did not respond. He pursed his lips and hung his head down, staring resolutely at the floor. His fists clenched at his sides but he remained silent.

Luo Binghe wasn't one for pity— no one ever cared enough to pity him or if they did, that hadn't meant anything good. Only a fool would help a stranger, not to mention a neglected orphan child.

But this was his child. He could feel the diluted demonic blood rushing through his veins. Must have been a product of some union with one of the weaker humans who clung to his thighs the moment they realized they wouldn't have any better options. They had the same curls in common, that much was clear, though the child's were rather messy. An unlucky runt in the harem. That irritated him— he was an emperor, what was this wife doing? Even a wife sent to the cold palace would still have enough to afford clean robes and a comb.

He felt his heart soften a little. He was so tired. The kid reminded him a bit of himself and normally that would piss him off but the headache was still raging. The smell of the concoction on the floor was not helping, just making him nauseous.

The gurgling growl of a hungry stomach interrupted his thoughts.

The kid stiffened, mortification blooming on his face. He seemed like he was really trying not to cry.

Luo Binghe sighed.

"Clean this mess while I make us something."

The kid's eyes snapped up in surprise, his mouth parting in confusion.

Luo Binghe raised an eyebrow, "Must I repeat myself, boy?"

The kid franticly shook his head.

"Get on it."

Freezing in place, his spooked eyes searched the room hurriedly. He was practically bouncing on the balls of his feet.

Was that little fool really a child of his loins? Horrible cook and seemed to not even know the basics of cleaning.

..But hadn't he been taught as well?

For the first time in a long while, Luo Binghe thought of his poor mother. A woman who took in a useless child, not even born from her womb and cared for him. And here he was, not even able to have mercy for a child that shared his bloodline. What would she think of him.. he did not wish to even contemplate her disappointment.

He might not be a good father, or a father at all, but.. he could at least pretend for a moment.

"Listen here, boy—"

The child wasn't a natural, still nervous and rather slow in his haste to not displease but as Binghe walked him through what needed to be done to clean such a mess, and the stain it caused, the kid did get less fidgity. He listened too as though hanging on to every word. Binghe doubted he remembered all of it but the fact that he was trying had to be enough right now.

With strict orders for the kid to stand to the side, Binghe grabs his apron that he had in this kitchen specifically for this exact purpose of cooking in inappropriate robes.

"Rule number one, always cover your good clothes when cooking. Now pay attention to what I do..." He began showing how he measured the ingredients and cleaned them carefully but efficiently.

Through out it all, the child watched on, still fearful but more curious and with an air of earnestness. Once Binghe was at the stage where he was mostly stirring the pot, he paid greater attention to the kid once more.

"So, what exactly were you doing *here*, in my kitchen specifically?"

The kid just bit his lip as his eyes stared to the side.

"Alright then," Binghe tsked. "What is your name, boy?"

"L-Luo Yu.." he stammered as though he was unused to his own name.

Binghe hummed.

The name rang a very distant bell. If he wasn't wrong, then his mother was Consort Lu Chen.. who died real soon after childbirth. She had a sister though, coincidentally also in the harem and he was sure she took the child under her care. Or maybe was made to take him under her care? She had two children of her own though so maybe the sisterly feelings didn't run as deep as he had assumed. Not if the kid looks like this and even dared to be caught in Binghe's personal kitchen rather than take a chance with the main kitchen.

Dismissing his thoughts, he focused back on the congee. It was almost done now.

A few minutes later, Binghe scooped the congee into a bowl and shooed Luo Yu to the table in the corner. Placing the bowl in front of him and handing him a spoon, he gestured for him to go ahead.

The kid just stared at it like he wasn't sure it was real and that it was for him. Binghe felt a little bad. Who knew the last the time he got a decent meal, not to mention if he ever even got a chance to taste Binghe's superior cooking.

"Go on now," he nudged the kid's shoulder gently. "Eat."

Luo Yu hesitated before dipping into the bowl and then stuffing the spoon full of the fluffy congee into his mouth. Instantly his eyes lit up as the taste hit his taste buds.

"Thwis ish so goodth!!" he had his cheeks stuffed like a little hamster. It looked utterly ridiculous.

"Don't talk with your mouth full, boy. And slow down. No one is going to take it away from you." There was enough for seconds and thirds anyway, Binghe thought.

As Binghe watched Luo Yu eat the congee with such gusto, he felt his mouth twitch. It was barely a smile but it made him pause. He wasn't sure when was the last time he actually felt anything. Oh he smiled, he laughed and charmed, such was his life. Genuine emotions had no place. The only thing he'd felt was anger and irritation for so long.

But in the presence of the kid, those sparkling eyes were stealing looks at him every so often, he felt more relaxed and like himself than in a long time.

He had forgotten what it felt like to have someone truly enjoy his cooking.

Over the years he had gotten better and expanded his skills. Much of his life, cooking became just a necessity. Back in Qing Jing Peak, he had to sneak into the kitchen and feed himself. And the less said about the Endless Abyss the better... though a few of his recipes were pretty good. He got rather creative with it eventually.

As despondent his childhood was, it truly was the happiest time. His mother had loved his cooking— looking back on it, he couldn't really be sure he was actually any good at it. She taught him everything she knew though. She always seemed so happy and proud of whatever he made. Her eyes would be so fond as she took careful bites. Ah.. but there was someone else who had seemed to enjoy his cooking too. He had almost forgotten him. That kind scholar.

Looking at Luo Yu, Binghe wondered. What was he doing with his life? Hadn't he used to have dreams? Before the Cang Qiong Mountain Sect, before his mother's death.. he wanted something other than power. He had kindness and generosity.

Was anything really holding him here? He doubted anyone would care. How much love can there be in a household that could not even take care of one orphaned child?

Turning towards his son, Binghe took in a deep breath.

"Would you like to leave with me, Yu-er?"

A young man sitting at a table called over a waiter asking for a refill of tea. It was the only tolerable thing in this restaurant by a mile. The food was over salted and too over done unless it was just raw like the who-knows-what he had carefully and gentlemanly spat out into a handkerchief earlier. And this was apparently a high class place that boasted exquisite delicacies. Utter shamelessness is what it was.

The tea really wasn't better but he was still thirsty and it wasn't completely offending his sensibilities.

..Truth be told, its been a really long time since he had eaten food that was truly amazing. Oh how devastated he was when his favourite eatery had closed down a hundred and fifty years ago. The master chef had died and with him many of his amazing recipes. A worser loss had never been had. The last time anyone had surprised him was.. mm... oh, there was a child in some village once. The skill was still rough but the talent shined! The food was quite good— all the kid needed was some polish.

Shen Yuan wondered what happened to that child.. He had to rush somewhere, he remembered vaguely, it was very important but he could not remember now. A pity that he never even got the name of the poor boy. He would have liked to have seen him again. It's been over seventy years now though, the boy and his mother were very poor and unlikely to be alive now. He was mad with himself for not nurturing that talent.

At least here he was, living under Luo Binghe's reign. That was cool! ..Though he was far away from the action. He hardly even noticed it happening until one day everyone was talking about it. It wasn't his fault though! Transmigrating hundred of years before the plot even had an inkling of beginning was very cruel of the system. At least it gave him a bunch of cool abilities and an immortal body as compensation for the error. Being a rogue cultivator was alright since he could travel and see all the cool animals and beasts.

But his sense of time was fucked. Even trying to prepare himself and guess when plot might happen— he kept missing it. Apparently during the showdown with Tianlang Jun, he was in the demon realm watching the Deadly Seven Petal Orchid bloom. And it really was quite a sight!! ..He was sure the battle of hundreds of cultivators vs a Heavenly Demon was also quite a sight, but alas nothing could be done now.

All he kept getting was the gossip and retellings at tea houses. Having heightened hearing was frankly the best thing ever in his opinion. He never had to strain to hear the juicy bits!

Like right now.. His ears picked up the invigorating conversation of two gentlemen in the far corner.

"—disappeared and now the palace is under the First Wife Consort Ning." A tall bespeckled man spoke as he took a bite of his food.

"I heard that he was actually assassinated by one of his wives and now it's all a cover up!" his companion exclaimed.

A third gentleman joined their table and shook his head. "No, no way, I bet His Highness just ran out to get another artifact or woo another wife."

"But it's been months!"

"It's not the first time.." the newcomer responded.

"I've heard that normally there is at least communication though," the first man said.

"And how would you know this?" his companion looked disinclined to believe him.

"I have my ways," the first man said and took a sip of his drink.

...The transmigrator was shocked. How could Luo Binghe be dead?? It must be some difficult quest that kept him away from his palace and harem. He had no doubts that he would return victorious and squash these rumours!

He was ready to hear more but they seemed to have put up a silencing talisman. He actually had ways of getting around that but it could potentially reveal him so he let them be.

He ended up focused on another table where a man was shouting at a waiter about how his meal wasn't anything special and even inferior to some eateries he'd been to. That he only came over because the chef was so highly praised yet he had tasted better food even by the demon realm border.

Now that was intriguing.. Not many places dared to operate near the demon border and to hear they actually had good food... A lot of humans avoided the border due to demon attacks and also fear of being served rotting human flesh. So of course Shen Yuan had to check this place out! He listened more carefully hoping to catch some clues as to the location.. and thankfully was able to sus out a few more details.

Paying for his meal, he left.

It had been almost a year since Luo Yu met his Father Emperor for the first time. He never actually thought that would happen. Frankly even the idea of it was terrifying since he knew that the Emperor didn't care for any of his children and the last time one of his half-sibling met him, it was due to being punished for the conspiracy to over throw him or something like that. Luo Yu was still very young and didn't understand a lot of the details, he just understood the more important thing— his father was a cold heartless ruler who did not have mercy even for his own blood kin.

Luo Yu knew that the Emperor's kitchen was off limits. He'd heard servants talk about it and avoid it like their lives depended on it (which they did) but it was either slow death from starvation or a quick one from being discovered.

It wasn't the first time he snuck in, nor the second time. He wasn't fully sure how many times he'd been in there before he was caught. He always tried to do it when he knew the emperor was away. He was just really unlucky that day... or very luck indeed.

He wasn't sure what the Emperor saw when he looked at him but fed him. Personally making the congee and serving Luo Yu. And it was delicious!! It felt like a dream. When he was asked if he wanted to leave, he had no clue what the Emperor meant but of course he said yes!

..And now here they were. At the border between the demon and human realms, running a bustling restaurant.

It wasn't an easy adjustment, and his father wasn't an easy person but it was better. He had warm clothes, a soft bed, and three meals a day and as many snacks as he wanted!

The customers were interesting too. His father welcomed both demons and humans and did not discriminate. Of course there were plenty of complaints and his father even had to step in to kick people out.. But soon everyone got used to it. They had to if they wanted to eat his father's cooking, which if you asked Luo Yu, really was the best cooking in the world! It basically got humans and demons to be polite to each other or at least ignore each other which was something everyone has always told Luo Yu was impossible. So he didn't think he was wrong.

Of course, sadly he did not get to slack off. His father thought it was only proper for him to work in the restaurant, saying that this way it was fully a family business. He still had to learn though and more often than not, his father tutored him after closing time. It sucked.. but it wasn't like the local kids he saw got away with playing around all the time too. They had to help their parents as well and they had less free time than his father gave him so he couldn't complain too much!

Today Luo Yu was given a little break. He still had chores to do but at least his father had taken it easy on him and he didn't have to serve any of the customers! Hua-jie was working today instead of him which Luo Yu was glad for— she was much faster than him and more accurate to! He really preferred to do the tasks where he didn't need to talk to anyone. No matter how annoying washing the dishes or even cleaning up after the animals was, he could at least do them in a daze as it was all routine.

Currently he was sweeping the entrance though. This meant many of the regulars greeted him and some even stopped to chat for a bit. He was used to it now. At the beginning it was awkward but now it even felt kind of nice! ..At least now that it was rare for a lot of the women to ask about his father and his marital status. One time someone annoyed him so much he cried all over them about how his mom died and how they were actually in debt and that his father was actually sooooooo sad and cried so much every day! (He got sent to bed without dinner that day but it was so worth it! The rumours spread and finally his father was left alone while he got some sweets from the nicer ladies for like a week.) (Actually the punishment was nothing because Hua-jie snuck him some food— he knew she couldn't cook and his father kept such a tight control on his kitchen that it was impossible that he didn't know she took some... his father was really not as strict as he appear.)

He was just sweeping the last of the dust in a daze when a dog ran by causing him to turn around to check that it wasn't running into their garden and somehow clumsily stepped on the broom before also somehow tripping over it. As he lost his footing, he panicked and gripped the broom handle not helping his balance at all. Just before he fell flat on his face— he felt a gentle hand steady him with a grip on his shoulder.

Blinking as he was placed back onto his feet properly, he looked up into the kind eyes of a beautiful stranger.

Luo Binghe knew it wasn't going to be a very good day. He woke up with a crick in his neck from an awkward position since he ended up falling asleep at his desk calculating expenses. A fight broke out between demons the day before and caused some damage to the roof and walls. The talismans were holding it strong today but he knew he needed to replace it all. He had good money now and he could justify buying some sturdier materials and adding stronger wards with an excuse that he had asked one of the many strong cultivators that have eaten at his restaurant.

When he and Yu-er ran away, while he definitely had money and other things on him, he couldn't flaunt his wealth much. Especially in the small village they settled near the border. Now the place was booming and expanding. His restaurant attracted many wealth people and some even with good taste. He could use some of his hidden funds and no one would bat an eye. His reputation was good and his disguise was flawless. Heavenly demon blood was a great thing— once he had figured out how to use it for all its possible functions. He hid his demon mark and even changed his face structure, plus he completely covered up his demonic qi. The villagers were very kind to a lonely man and his son. (He might not admit it, but really this places seemed great because it did not have many young women. Having women fling themselves at him was a problem that began even before he became an emperor.)

Now that this place was his home, he really did like it. It used to be too poor to have rich nobles that took advantage of people.. people like his mother. Well frankly now he was the rich yet not noble benefactor of the village. It used to be too small to even have an official, though that would probably end up changing soon. The expansions were coming along well. Luo Binghe was alright with it as it did improve the people's lives. His mother would have liked it.

He was pretty surprised how much he liked the people in this village. Living near the border, they were afraid of demons but also he definitely could tell that at least two people and a child were half-demons. They hid it rather well, all their demonic features
covered up but he could still feel the mild demonic qi. It gave him pause, especially when one windy day, the child's horns were visible due to the wind blowing the hat off. He was worried the other human villagers would attack... but instead they protected the child from *him*. They knew. *They knew* and didn't care. (And if Luo Binghe nearly cried for the first time in years, no one had to know.)

It turned out they had contact with a demonic tribe that passed by and exchanged goods every other month. It made some sense. The village was poor and weak yet it was still surviving. Those demons offered them some protection, mainly through marriages. Which were actually not even political.

Luo Binghe vowed to protect this place. He wanted to build a better future here. And anything he put his mind to, he got. As more people moved here and more shops opened, he was still planning. He really wanted to establish a school. He taught his son himself and it was rather irritating. He didn't want to admit it, but he wasn't the best teacher and Yu-er was very behind in his education nor was a genius like Binghe picking up things easily. He hoped that by the time the construction of the school was done, he could find a teacher for the children that was good at teaching *and* good with children too. He would not allow a "Shen Qingqiu" anywhere near his son. Part of the reason he fell asleep at his desk was this issue. He had been looking over candidates.

Knowing he wasn't going to be at his best today, he asked Aunty Qing to help in the kitchen and A-Hua to work instead of Yu-er. His son wasn't very good at the job but it was good for him. Today though, he wasn't sure he wouldn't end up yelling at him. (And after they had a talk months ago, he tried to be very mindful of it. His mother never actually yelled at him— she didn't have any reasons to. But Luo Yu was different from him. He had to remember that.

Some time into their leave, he almost blew his cover. And Luo Binghe lost it with him.

It was terrible.

Luo Yu yelled back all that he thought of him. He cried and even ran away. Binghe knew it was a mistake, it wasn't Luo Yu's fault. ..Luo Yu's words weren't wrong either. Luo Binghe knew he wasn't perfect. Oh he could pretend, but deep down inside, he wasn't good.

..So after finding his son (and killing some prominent slavers in the town they were passing by,) they talked. Many things were awkwardly said but a promise was made. They would try to be kind to each other. Binghe promised he would try to never yell at Yu-er ever again and remember that his son was not a copy of himself.

He wasn't a good dad... But he was trying. He did not want to disappoint his mother.)

So Yu-er was sent to do other tasks. Away from Binghe's sight. His intentions were to stay deep in the kitchen and avoid interacting as much as possible. He was tired of faking politeness and was glad that his staff had stopped expecting it from him by now.

His morning didn't improve but at least it didn't get worse. Aunty Qing was a sharp-tongued and very efficiant widow turned cook. She might not have had Binghe's ability in the kitchen but she was still a very good assistant chef. She was quick and ready to learn all of his little tricks— and to teach him things as well. She spoke with such dry sarcasm and wit that it always manage to crack him up. Some days he hardly even had to reprimand his staff, Aunty Qing was there to do it all for him and even more efficient than him. Most importantly, she was very good natured about it somehow. Everyone loved her and never took offence. Luo Binghe was jealous... (He had learned to mask his emotions with a polite and gentle mask.. maybe this was the reason that none of his wives felt fully relaxed with him. How could someone feel at ease with a stranger?)

Aunty Qing could tell with a single glance that he was in no state to be an adult and tsked. She made him a cup of calming tea and took guard of the kitchen door. He barely had to talk to any of the staff while he cooked and took orders from Aunty Qing.

Once upon a time, he promised himself that he would never be under another person's heel, that he would be the master. But Aunty Qing did not feel like that. Her fussing and scolding, her no nonsense statements.. She was the first to find out Luo Yu was half-demon when he fell ill nearly in the first month as the restaurant was opened. She helped him with the same stubbornness that got her originally hired— by coming in and saying she was working here now. (He liked to think his mother would have liked her...)

He barely paid attention when A-Hua burst into the kitchen in a panic and whispered to Aunty Qing. Both of them left the kitchen... but Aunty Qing returned soon.

Tapping him gently on his shoulder, she explained: "An immortal master want to speak to the owner."

"Did you tell him that you are the owner?" Binghe tiredly asked.

Aunty Qing scowled. "Of course I did. He didn't believe me! Apparently he had heard from a trusted source that the owner is a cultivator and could see I'm not."

Binghe deeply sighed. "What does this 'immortal master' even want?"

"Unhappy about the demons," she snorted.

"Tough shit."

"Mm," Aunty Qing agreed.

Binghe rubbed his forehead. He was pretty pissed. He dealt with such assholes before and changing their minds was pointless. If they wanted to speak to him, well, he'll grant their wish before kicking and banning them from his restaurant forever.

A loud crash shocks Luo Yu and the kind cultivator. Turning their heads to the door, they could see a cultivator in fancy robes splayed on the ground gathering dust. (Oops! Luo Yu thought, he was just getting to that area!) His father stood at the entrance looking angerier than he had been in a while, even with the fight that happened the other day.

Luo Yu unconsciously hid behind the kind cultivator.

Peeking out, he saw his father bare his teeth as he told the cultivator to never return to his establishment. ..Then he seemed to notice the cultivator he has hiding behind. His father seemed to blink before a look to bewilderment took hold of his face.

He seemed to laugh and smile sheepishly, before giving the cultivator a greeting.

"Immortal cultivator, please ignore this minor disturbance," Luo Binghe said, ignoring the cultivator still lying on the ground and cursing him out. (Huh, his father must have really used a lot of strength if the man was not willing to get up yet..) "Please let this lowly one welcome into you into this humble establishment."

As his father guided the kind cultivator into the restaurant, Luo Yu just stood in place almost in a daze. With cautious steps, he took a look inside the restaurant through the window and saw his father personally taking the cultivator's order..

...Well shit, Luo Yu thought, as a bead of sweat dripped down his forehead.

Was he getting a step-mother?

Luo Binghe had never been happier.

It was now the third time that Shen Yuan had visited his restaurant in a week. (Binghe was ready to make him come every day and then to never leave.) It was funny how the immortal did not change in all the years yet he was very different from Binghe's memories. Still the same grace and kindness and peerless beauty but.. instead of imposing and bigger than life, Shen Yuan was actually small and dainty. He only came up to Binghe's shoulders (if even that) and Binghe was sure he could almost encircle his waist and have his fingers touch. He was so thin!

..Binghe was working hard to convince the reluctant scholar to eat more.

After placing the dishes on the table, Binghe sat down across from him and poured them both tea. Shen Yuan smiled before he took a sip. Surprise flitted across his face before he took another sip.

"Mm, this is the Thousand Blooming Night Flower, isn't it?" asked Shen Yuan. "The tea is positively delicious. This master has tried making it before but it was never this sweet."

"This lowly one is pleased you like it. The trick is to boil it just as it starts to bloom." Not that it was that easy. The pesky flower bloomed once a year and only at 3 am on the dot.

"This master had no idea! This makes sense.. but Lu Fan, that must have been so hard!" Shen Yuan exclaimed. "This is tea for an emperor and yet you are wasting it on me."

Binghe wanted to grimace but he kept up his smile. That dreaded name. (It happened during their travels. Luo Binghe unfortunately flirted with a girl while he and Yu-er were having a meal at an inn. He nearly blurted out "Luo" before he realized his mistake. Stuck with "Lu", he panicked for a moment until his eyes fell on the rice he was eating. He still had no idea what possessed him to say "Fan" but the embarrassment killed all his interest in the woman. He was ready to forget this black spot on his history and had been coming up with better names but his brat, badly holding in his giggles, told Aunty Qing the stupid name. Now he was stuck with it.) Oh what he wouldn't do to hear Shen Yuan's sweet lips shape his name. Or better yet scream his name..

"Not at all. This one is happy to share it," Binghe said. Grabbing some chopsticks, he carefully began to place the best of the best into Shen Yuan's bowl. "This one would like nothing more than for immortal cultivator to try my new recipe."

Putting the tea aside, Shen Yuan picked up his own chopsticks and after eyeing the food, picked up a appetizing morsel. As soon as he took a bite, his eyes lit up in excitement. Apparently it tasted so good that Shen Yuan did not even say anything before stuffing more into his mouth! Binghe smiled. Shen Yuan's enthusiasm was just as good as his compliments and leagues better than riches and the most powerful magical artifacts.

Binghe hadn't felt this content in so long...

"Alright, it's delicious, everything you make is delicious! But you have to tell this master what meat this is?" Shen Yuan was pouting. This was his twentieth visit now. He'd always been curious about the ingredients but they always kept getting sidetracked. "I'm quite certain it's been something different at least fourteen times!"

Binghe paused and looked at the cultivator consideringly.

"This humble one must admit it is somewhat a trade secret.." he trailed off. "But if Shen Yuan truly wishes to know.."

"This master won't tell a soul!"

Binghe hummed. He gestured for the cultivator to move in closer.. and closer.. before he whispered into his ear. (Oh the willpower it took not to bite it..)

Shen Yuan blinked. Then furrowed his eyebrows.

"You're messing with me," he pursed his lips looking suspicious. "There's no way to consistently be able to access that place, not to mention how dangerous it is!"

Luo Binghe smirked: "Believe me or not, it's the truth."

Shen Yuan shook his head before he continued to eat.

It was some months now that Shen Yuan had been consistently coming over to the restaurant. Many long weeks of slow wheedling until Binghe could get the cultivator to stay longer and longer with every visit.

Tonight, Shen Yuan was still lingering way past closing time— though due to a celebration, the restaurant closed earlier and the staff were free to go. Everyone had left an hour ago and Luo Yu claimed illness in the morning and had been napping all day.

He had made all of Shen Yuan's favourite snacks and brewed a new exotic tea blend that was mellow and sweet. Day light was shorter and shorter each day— with an excuse of wanting to conserve energy, Binghe lighted some candles instead.

It was perfect. And quiet. And intimate.

They had been talking about the properties of demonic shrubbery that originated in the south but had migrated to the north and mutated. Binghe had dealt with it before but he hadn't known a lot about it. Shen Yuan was just full of information and he was a very engaging storyteller when it came to things that fascinated him. He'd been alive for so long that for him it was memories instead of history. (The way his eyes sparkled and how his hands grew animated as he gestured around to emphasize whatever it was he was explaining.. oh Binghe could not not want to fuck him. And also cherish him.)

Shen Yuan was just in the middle of explaining the very convoluted mating habits of Skeletal Fairy Vines when a rather panicked cry of "baba" sounded out from the hallway that lead into the home part of the building.

Feeling very annoyed, Binghe gave Shen Yuan a quick smile before turning and yelling to ask "what."

"Can you just come here? Please!"

"No, take care of it yourself. I'm sure it's fine. The broom is in shed and the medicine is in the small kitchen top shelf."

Luo Yu groaned in frustration.

"Baaaabaaaaaa!" he whined. "But I'm dying!"

"You can't die, brat."

"I'm bleeding! I'm going to bleed to death!!!"

Both adults gave a pause at that. Shen Yuan looked rather concerned.

"..Did you cut yourself?" Binghe hesitantly asked.

"No!"

Binghe: ????????

"..How are you bleeding?"

"It's..... baba, can you just come here!"

Feeling rather confused and kind of worried now, Luo Binghe sighed as he got up to go to his son. He was happy to note that Shen Yuan also seemed to follow him a few steps behind.

Luo Yu was oddly standing in his sleeping robes, holding them rather awkwardly looking very frightened and pale. He was curling in on himself as though he was suffering from a stomach ache.

"So where are you bleeding, Yu-er?"

Hearing Binghe's question, he sniffled a bit as tears and snot continued to run down his face. He then very embarrassingly pointed at his.... crotch.

Binghe: ...

Binghe: *oh*

Binghe: I think this just means you aren't pregnant

Luo Yu: ???

Luo Yu: But what do I do?! ;o;

Binghe: .......................

Binghe: ..Can't you just concentrate on not bleeding?

Luo Yu: TT_TT

Shen Yuan: ??????????.........*!!!!*

"Okay what the fuck! Lu Fan, it does *not* work like that!" Shen Yuan said in mortification. (..Oops, Binghe couldn't believe that for a moment he forgot about the love of his life being right here as well.) "It's.." he began before seemingly faltering as Luo Yu's huge wet eyes turned to him. He grimaced and straighten his already perfect posture before attempting to continue. "It's a very normal and natural occurrence that happens to wo— certain people once a month when they reach a certain age." As he continued to explain menstruation, his face progressively got redder and redder. He finished his impromptu lecture with a polite cough before looking straight into Luo Yu's eyes.

"You are not dying," he reassured. "But you could use some medicine to manage the stomach cramps." With that statement he turned his judgmental gaze upon Binghe.

Luo Binghe got the message.

He lead them into the small inner kitchen before riffling through the medicine he mainly kept around for Luo Yu and his staff.

Meanwhile Shen Yuan kept awkwardly comforting the kid (mainly petting his head. Luo Binghe was *totally* jealous.)

(Meanwhile deep inside his own head, Shen Yuan's brain was just one long continuous scream. This might not have been the first time he happened to be dealing with this but did this world even have pads?? tampons?? What the fuck did women do! He had never missed convenient corner shops that had everything as much as he did now. Even stronger than that time when he craved a chocolate bar, and that time was real bad! ...shit, his meimei always wanted chocolate when.......... he had to stop the directions his thoughts wanted to take him.)

Binghe thought the evening was ruined but Shen Yuan didn't leave. He helped distract Luo Yu while Binghe got his son some new robes and found some clean rags that could at least deal with the worst of the bleeding. Luo Yu was rather sleepy after having some of the herb medicine so they let the child sleep as they made plans on what to do next. (Shen Yuan was very awkward and rather unsure but he did manage to bring up some good points at least about asking if Luo Yu wanted certain changes. What he lacked in understanding he made up in knowledge about all sorts of plants and artifacts that could help change a person's organs— some not even related to sex amusingly enough.) They had come to a conclusion that they would ask Aunty Qing for help the next day.

Luo Binghe wasn't sure how he felt about this change— having to make decisions not only for his own good but also for his son. To consider Yu-er's feelings about more than just how he treated the boy. It suddenly dawned on him that Luo Yu was his responsibility. Even after many years of marriage, he never actually had to concern himself with anyone. If he liked a woman, then she would become his wife, nevermind how many he already had. If he wanted to change his main residence, everyone would follow him. He might hear other people out but it hardly mattered much for the final decision.

He was suddenly nervous. Did Luo Yu actually like Shen Yuan? What would he do if the answer was no?

He had been operating under the assumption that all he needed to do was woo Shen Yuan and once they were together, he could be happy. He would have a husband.

Now, after spending a wholly unromantic part of the evening caring for his son, he gained an understanding... what he wanted was a family.

He wanted Shen Yuan to tell *their* son about the weird animals and flora he had a fascination with. To know he could leave his son in his husband's care if there was something he needed to do. To have help with raising a fucking small *human (half-demon) being*. He wanted it all so badly.

And he was going to have to make sure he wouldn't fuck this up.

After Binghe's Realization(tm), he had to really think and set some plans in motion.

Shen Yuan came often but it wasn't enough. There were times when he still travelled for days and returned with interesting tales of what he saw. If only that was something he would do *with* Binghe instead of without him.

1. He needed to have chefs that could take over his restaurant's kitchen.

Aunty Qing was very good and could be a head chef— but she would need assistants. He would need to select some promising youths that were not yet corrupted beyond redemption with bad cooking habits and techniques.

2. He needed Shen Yuan to want to stay with him.

For that he needed to at least make a reason for the cultivator to make this town his home even before being seduced and moving in with Binghe. Or better yet, give him a reason to need a place to stay and *then* have him move in with Binghe.

3. He still needed to find teachers for the town school that was practically ready.

This one wasn't personal but this could be combined with point number 2. The town needed a teacher and Binghe wanted Shen Yuan to have a reason to stay without him being able to make any excuses.

This would also have the benefit of forcing Shen Yuan to spend more time with his son. As far as he could tell, Shen Yuan seemed to like kids— Luo Yu seemed alright for a kid so it was easy to like him. And Shen Yuan was too kind so it shouldn't be a difficulty for Yu-er to like him. They were tentative around each other right now so this would obviously fix this.

Now all Binghe had to do was convince Shen Yuan.

Binghe had been ready to set things in motion as soon as possible but over the next two weeks Shen Yuan had run off to view the once in a thousand years flowering of a demonic cactus. (Binghe was looking forward to hearing all about it!) He tried to be patient and focus on step one.

After a few days, he already had 3 promising candidates to apprentice in cooking. They were all fairly young but old enough to be left alone with Aunty Qing. Each one had their weaknesses but also showed a lot of budding talent in certain areas.

Step one was going alright.

Step two and three were a little more difficult to begin.

They needed some specific timing. Not complex but it did require some maneuvering.

Binghe chose to just lie.

(Would it eventually bite him in the ass? Who knew but if Shen Yuan was going to be doing the biting, he'd take his chances.)

"Maybe we should go check up on your father?" Shen Yuan asked for the third time that evening. Luo Yu just wanted to sigh but he held it in.

"He's just napping! We shouldn't disturb him..." he tried to keep his face straight as he *lied.* This is what his father had gotten him to do— *lie.*

They were both sitting at the writing desk in Luo Yu's father's study with study materials in front of them. For whatever reason, his father decided that he wanted Shen Yuan to teach him today instead of personally terrorizing Luo Yu like he did every other day. And unlike being a normal person, he had pretended to be sick and made Luo Yu *lie*, and ask the kind cultivator for lessons himself. It was ridiculous!

But this was his baba.. stupid ideas and all. (And he did seem much happier these days.)

Plus Luo Yu had to admit it wasn't bad. It was actually rather good. Shen-laoshi, as he had been asked to call him, was a much better teacher than his father. He didn't expect Luo Yu to remember things after repeating them once and was always happy to explain something.

..He just seemed partially distracted with worrying for his father.

"Mmm," Shen Yuan hummed before absentmindedly looking through the books on the desk. "Oh.." he paused before muttering to himself: "I didn't think your father had such interests."

Luo Yu was copying the characters Shen-laoshi showed him and had looked up questioningly when he heard that. Shen Yuan seemed to be staring at a particular book..

"Ah," Luo Yu blushed. "T-That's mine."

Shen-laoshi looked at him in surprise before smiling.

"I had no idea you were into books like these? I thought all kids were more into adventure stories."

"No.. those aren't fun these days.. but a good romance! And all the harem face slapping! That's really fun!" Luo Yu enthusiased. He loved it when the evil scheming consort got caught! "..But baba doesn't really care for them so I'm trying to learn to read faster since he won't read them for me." He visibly wilted, "..I still can't fully read every word yet."

Shen-laoshi had a thoughtful look on his face.

"This master has a preposition." He opened up the romance book to the first chapter and placed it in front of Luo Yu. "Why don't we have you read this book and tackle any characters you don't know along the way?"

Luo Yu's eye lit up in excitement and he frantically shook his head in agreement.

Shen-laoshi was seriously so much better than his dad!

"How did it go?"

"I never ever want you teaching me anything ever again, a-die."

Binghe decided to take that as win instead of an insult.

Binghe waited a few days before bringing it up. Shen Yuan taught Luo Yu during these days as well and he was glad to see them getting along so well.

He knew he had to be delicate with the topic.

They sat down drinking tea late into the night as the restaurant closed and Luo Yu was in bed.

"You're very good with him, you know," Binghe said.

"Hm?"

"Yu-er has been complaining that he doesn't want me to teach him anymore, only his Shen-laoshi will do."

Shen Yuan light blushed. "This master is sure that is an exaggeration."

"Not at all. He's never been so interested in learning before. I've had to force him a lot— for his own good, of course."

"He's a very bright child," Shen Yuan smiled.

"This one had actually been thinking... this town is attempting to start a school for children no matter their station to be able to learn at the very least the basics of writing and reading. Maybe other subjects as well.." Binghe trailed off before licking his dry lips. He was feeling anxious to bring this up. "They are looking for teachers and this B— Lu Fan wishes to recommend Shen-xiansheng for a position." He looked at him imploringly, waiting for his response.

"Ah.. Lu Fan, this master isn't sure.."

"Shen Yuan is an amazing teacher!" he interrupted him frantically. "He is very good with Yu-er. So patient and kind. If this one had Shen Yuan as a teacher, he is sure his life would have turned out completely different.

"This humble one did not have the best experience in his childhood. I.. I had a cruel teacher who I could not please no matter what I did.."

"Oh, Lu Fan.. I'm so sorry. You did not deserve that."

"I.. wasn't the best student—"

"That shouldn't matter! No child, no matter what, deserves to be treated badly by anyone with control over them like that!"

He felt himself shudder at the words. He had always wanted someone to just tell him it wasn't his fault. That he did not get what he deserved. That the problem wasn't him. It wasn't his nature. (Shen Yuan knew he had some demon ancestry, it had come out one day when Binghe had already stopped expecting Shen Yuan to come by. He was pretty pissed that day after a drunk cultivator tried to hit on one of his waitresses. Then a demon tried to take advantage of one of his waitresses as well and Binghe had had enough. When the demon did not respect him as a cultivator, in a moment of pure irritation, Binghe's claws came out and he scratched the demon's face. The shocked demon trembled as he ran out the door himself, nearly shitting his pants from feeling Binghe's demonic aura.

..Turning around with huff, Binghe froze as he saw Shen Yuan standing at the door.... having seen the whole thing.

He thought he had ruined everything but all Shen Yuan said was that it made sense. After all the restaurant served both humans and demons.

Binghe was just glad this wasn't a deal breaker.)

Even his shijie, someone he had once thought to be the love of his life when he was still so naive, could never contradict their once shizun. What happened was horrible but had Binghe deserved it? Who could say. Wasn't Binghe a demon? It always seemed to come down to this. Something he could not control and hadn't even known.

His eyes grew red and he could feel his nose tingle.

Long, long ago he had vowed to himself that he would never cry again. Recently it seemed like fate, the universe, and everything was conspiring against him to break it.

This wasn't the first time he cried since leaving his old life behind, he hated to acknowledge it but he feared this wouldn't even be the last.

"Thank you," Binghe whispered through his tears.

A bit after he had calmed down (and once again Binghe had the grace to be offered this immortal's handkerchief,) Shen Yuan pursed his lips as he seemed to come to a resolution.

"This master.. I... I will apply for the position."

In his happiness, Binghe tackled him into a hug.

Shen Yuan had no idea what he was doing.

It's been years as had wandered around, not settling as there was always something new to explore. Oh, he was lazy and was very used to civilization but he never fully stayed for a long time in a place. Never to put down roots.

Lu Fan's suggestion had him worried. He wasn't sure what was happening. Sure he'd had regulars before— people who he saw and counted himself friendly with. One could not live in full isolation without going mad.

He's always had his novels and a whole lot of money curtesy the system. He had an easy life and could do whatever he wanted. Still it was lonely.

And now he had a friend. ~~A really, really handsome friend who looked like he could have a harem in the hundred digits if only all the pretty women were not already in Luo Binghe's harem.~~

Who was pushing him to be more involved with society. He seemed to really value his son's education! Which frankly made him more nervous. Sure he read a lot but there was so much he didn't care for. He couldn't teach everything.. he wasn't sure he could teach anything at all! ..Everyone who claimed otherwise just weren't exposed to any actually good teachers. Even the good teachers in Proud Immortal Demon Way were neglectful at best.

But.. he kind of wanted to try. And he had told Lu Fan that he would so he had to keep his word. (God, he felt so bad for Lu Fan.. what kind of a childhood did he have? This stupid novel wasn't kind to anyone!)

So now here he was looking for a place to stay.

And nothing seemed to be available.

The first inn he went to for a temporary room was full. The second just had begun construction to fix a roof that caved in. Another place was apologetic that their rooms were booked in advance and the residents were arrive later that day.

No place was free.

The universe was conspiring against him! Maybe the decision to stay here was a bad one...

Of course when he went to apologize to Lu Fan explaining the dilemma he found himself in, the selfless man offered his own residence! Shen Yuan meant to refuse, he really didn't want to inconvenience the man, but somewhere in the conversation he got rather lost and by the end of it, he had a cheerful Lu Fan saying that his room would be ready in a little while and he could start moving in soon.

Shen Yuan only had one thing to say to all this...

Shen Yuan: ????????????

Luo Binghe was in bliss. And agony. So much agony.

It's been only a few months since Shen Yuan had moved in with him. Binghe had cleaned out a room next to his own that housed a lot of miscellaneous junk and he did not regret it.

Living with Shen Yuan was maddening.

Binghe had learned that he liked to sleep in. (It was cute how he tried to wake up early the first few days. He was so groggy.) That he looked even more delicate in his sleeping robes, his hair a messy waterfall (he didn't braid his hair for sleep!! Binghe was horrified as he found Shen Yuan tearing his hair out with a comb. Binghe insisted on taking care of Shen Yuan's hair from then on! ...it was so silky and smooth... a total contrast to his own rambunctious curls,) and his sleep mused face as he pretended he was totally awake for breakfast.

As the chef, Binghe woke up much earlier to start the cooking but he usually made sure to eat breakfast with Yu-er and now Shen Yuan also joined them too. Luo Yu still worked at the restaurant but most often than not they both left to the school where Shen Yuan and another cultivator were the main teachers. It seemed to be going great.

He was really glad to see other parents send their children to the school. They had about six girls at the moment but Shen Yuan was working very hard to persuade the parents that it would really benefit their daughters. He was so passionate about women getting the same level of education, it was very admirable. Cultivator were a lot more open minded about such things and there were many great women cultivators (Binghe was married to many of them!) but for most people it was just a way to boost the status of their child for marriage. For this reason they promoted the musical education aspect. Both Shen Yuan and the other teacher were accomplished musicians in different instruments. (Binghe loved it because some days he could cajole Shen Yuan into playing something at the end of the day. His favourite were some of the songs Shen Yuan knew from his hometown.)

So all was going good.

But for all of Binghe's advances... he seemed to still be thought of as a friend. And Binghe was being so blatant! He. Had. His. Head. In. Shen. Yuan's. Lap. One. Time. His hair was even absentmindedly petted!

Worse yet, Shen Yuan was a minx— a succubus sent to taunt him. The amount of glimpses of wrists, of his neck, of his collarbones! of his *bare* feet! It had to be on purpose! And yet for all his praise of Binghe, he kept encouraging Binghe to find a wife. A wife!!

He would have thought this was some weird playing-hard-to-get if the cultivator was not so sincere about it.

Weirder yet though, Shen Yuan always seemed worried that every pretty woman would join the emperor's harem... Binghe knew he was bad but he didn't realize this was how people saw him!

And the amount of information Shen Yuan had about his harem... was freaky. He was worried of the potential of a spy but with how little power his harem had possessed, it seemed real odd. Plus no spy would create a ranking system for the wives based on the criteria of who was "good enough" instead of politics.

If he thought all this was bad, Shen Yuan was also very interested in the missing emperor. He was fully convinced that any day now he would come back and reclaim his kingdom. He scoffed at all the rumours and was very offended that Ning Yingying took over his rule and also his harem. Lesbians seemed to confuse Shen Yuan a lot. Especially in a world where "Luo Binghe, the most handsome and perfect protagonist" existed, whatever that meant. It was very flattering though. (He just wished for someone who thought he was so perfect and handsome, he would *do* something about it before Binghe lost his mind.)

Most of the trouble began when the new empress announced she was going to travel and inspect the realms. He understood her decision. It's been years and years since she had been telling him to take more interest in the people's lives. Traveling with his son before they settled down had definitely opened his eyes. The realms were unstable and people were miserable... And he was doing what he could now here in this town.

Ning Yingying was already doing a better job than he ever did.

But why was she coming here??

"—the messenger said that the empress is coming over to check out our school!" Luo Yu exclaimed. "Shen-laoshi and Xu-laoshi are both helping us choose our best work to showcase. Shen-laoshi thinks that my art is really good and said he will be putting at least two piece up!"

"Mmm," Binghe hummed.

"...Oh, I forgot this sucks for you." Luo Yu got thoughtful for a moment. "Will the empress recognize me? I don't think I've ever met her.."

"You look more like your mother than me so you'll be fine, Yu-er."

His son beamed.

He wished he could feel just as reassured but his wives did know him for a long time now. He may have changed his appearance a bit but his energy, even muted, was more obvious to whoever actual knew him.

He would have to avoid and hide during the whole visit and somehow pretend that he totally wasn't doing that.

"Uh.. Lu Fan, what's that on your face?"

"This one is thinking of growing a mustache. Thought a change would be nice."

Shen Yuan: ...

"I don't think the empress will be impressed."

"Will Shen Yuan be impressed?"

Shen Yuan quickly got up from the breakfast table and rushed out the door, yelling about having projects to grade back at the school.

(Binghe tried not to laugh.)

"Will you be coming out to the school? This master has put up Lu Yu's rabbit drawing— you haven't seen that one yet."

"Ah, this one will see it later. The restaurant is going to be rather busy, I don't think I will have any time.."

"Oh.." Don't you have like four other cooks now, Shen Yuan thought, feeling a bit befuddled.

Lu Fan was truly acting rather weird these days.

The day came too soon.

Shen Yuan gave him a funny look as he and Luo Yu left for the school. Binghe was fine with this. Let him think he's a little batty instead of something like, oh, yeah the missing emperor of the three realms. (Truthfully, Luo Binghe had contemplated some sexy roleplay.. Shen Yuan would make quite an exquisite 'royal consort' or more accurately an 'empress'— and if that's not to his taste, Binghe was okay for once in his life to be the lowly concubine on his knees trying to gain the emperor's favor. Though he had to be realistic— Shen Yuan did have a very thin face which put a damper on the idea.

Worse though, what he feared most.. was that Shen Yuan had no need for a cruel heartless man with a harem in the hundreds. Best case scenario was that maybe the cultivator would demand he divorce all his wives (which *hot*) and Binghe could actually manage it. Or maybe the best scenario was being made to return to be an emperor. Shen Yuan did have a fascination with court life. But then the worse case was Shen Yuan *not* coming with him.

Alright, even worse was that.. Shen Yuan may start seeing him differently. Things could change between them. He was already having a hard time wooing him as is.

Really none of Binghe's thoughts made sense.

But he was afraid. Really afraid.)

So he was ready to stay in the kitchen all day and not show his face the whole time. It seemed like this wouldn't be hard either.

The restaurant was busy. With the empress's visit, many people had come to the town to take a look and of course they had to experience the best it had to offer. There have been many people waiting in a line that stretched far down the street. All waiting for open tables. His staff had to work extra hard to clean everything in between customers— and how glad was he that he had given one of the younger demons from the passing demonic tribe a job. With him busy in the kitchen, the young man was brilliant at breaking up fights and kicking any angry cultivators and demons out if they did not respect the place. (For such a good natured man, Xiao Yuwan was massive and without his goofy smile that brighten up his whole demeanor, he was rather intimidating with his fangs and spikey horns. A lot of fights had been reduced just by the culprits seeing Xiao Yuwan glare. (Probably because they have not seen him beg for fishballs— Binghe thought Luo Yu had the puppy dog eyes down but he had nothing on Xiao Yuwan.) The young demon was quite the hit with the regulars.) Without having to act as the muscle as much, Binghe's life grew much more relaxed. Having someone else take care of it all was refreshing.

Time in the kitchen was passing in a blur as there was barely a break in cooking. Before Binghe knew it, it was already way past lunch time.

Noticing Shen Yuan walking into the kitchen, Binghe gave him a smile before continuing chopping vegetables. "Done for the day?"

"Ah not yet.." he smiled back sheepishly. "This master may have praised Lu Fan's restaurant in passing and now the empress and her retinue have been having a meal."

"And has Shen Yuan eaten yet?"

"Not yet," he said before his next words warmed Binghe's core. "This master was hoping to eat together with Lu Fan."

"Of course! This one will have a break soon, apologizing for making Shen Yuan wait," Binghe grinned.

"Can Lu Fan take a quick break now?"

"Oh?"

"Well, you see," the cultivator pursed his lip for a moment. "The empress was asking to meet the chef to personally express her thanks."

Go meet Ning Yingying and hope she wouldn't recognize him? Out of the question.

"No, no, I'm rather busy here," he said grimacing.

"Lu Fan... this is the *empress*!!" Shen Yuan hissed. "You must have time for the *empress*!"

"Empress or not, I've still got lots of cooking to do and I'm not making everyone have to wait longer than they must," he scowled.

"It'll be only a few moments!"

"And what if it won't? What if instead the empress wishes to have a long discussion and offer me a place in the palace instead?"

"Then you can just say no!"

"Oh so *then* this lowly one can refuse but not now?" Binghe snipped.

Frustrated, Shen Yuan groaned. "You're incorrigible!"

"Thank you."

Shen Yuan sighed, then began to move back out into the restaurant. "This master is going to go back out and explain the situation."

Binghe relaxed— Crisis averted.

...Not.

Moments later Shen Yuan was back and this time he was accompanied by the empress. (Ning Yingying looked good, he was happy to note. Tired and weary in only the ways Binghe himself could really tell but radiant, shining and gorgeous. Control suited her. Many of his court and harem always underestimated her but she was still Shen Qingqiu's disciple, a scholar and schemer in her own right. He was sad he couldn't have been better to her in the past.)

Eyes lit up with a smile, she elegantly glided over to Luo Binghe, greeting him with utter politeness.

"This empress has been explained just how busy Master Lu is but had still personally wished to thank for the exquisite meal! No need to stop working for this one's sake. This empress has heard so much about you, Lu—" She had been looking around the kitchen when she had first entered but slowly her eyes came to rest upon Binghe. He could see the moment when her politely interested gaze became piercing. "—Fan." She gave a little laugh like she couldn't help it.

Trying not to tense up but feeling quite a bit guilty, Binghe greeted her extremely courteously and as expected of his current station. He had still hoped this could potentially be avoided but just as he feared, she really was someone who had known him the longest. There was no fooling her.

With a sigh, Binghe gestured to follow and began to move to a more secluded spot in the kitchen. "May this lowly one interest her highness in this... soup."

Binghe could feel Shen Yuan's gaze on him but Binghe was determined to concentrate on the pot of boiling soup instead.

With humour, Ning Yingying looked at the poor soup being stirred furiously.

Shen Yuan was very confused.

..Lu Fan wasn't thinking to hit on the empress, right??! While he could not understand how anyone would want someone other than Luo Binghe, but apparently Ning Yingying had taken over the harem and her two wives (Liu Mingyan.. his otp was broken??? and.. Sha Hualing of all people,) really did seem to act like her wives. Lesbians?? in Proud Immortal Demon Way?? and not for the protagonist to have threesomes with?? inconceivable.

But he was getting distracted.

A very quiet "A-Luo" brought him back.

The atmosphere between Lu Fan and Ning Yingying was odd. Lu Fan seemed very tense as he continued to stir the pot of soup. (Shen Yuan might not know a lot about cooking, but even he was sure the soup should not be treated like that.)

"..You seem to be doing well."

"It's been an adjustment."

Lu Fan winced. "I could say I feel bad but I must admit, all this one feels is relief these days."

"..This shijie can tell," Ning Yingying smiled. She looked weary in all her finery here and without any pretence but she seemed relieved. For a moment, she glanced at Shen Yuan before turning back to... "I'm very happy for you," she said with a sly little smile.

Turning around to leave, she passed by patting him on his arm and she whispered her parting words.

*Take care of Binghe for me.*

Shen Yuan blinked. Then blinked again.

Binghe was now worried that she broke him. Maybe if she hadn't been so direct... (That was but a wistful wish as Shen Yuan really wasn't an idiot and would put the pieces together sooner or later.)

Leaving the soup alone, signaling to one of the assisting cooks to take over, Binghe led Shen Yuan to the secluded outdoor garden. (It was quite a nice garden as Binghe grew a lot of the rare herbs himself.)

"Shen-xiansheng..."

Shen Yuan seemed to not even hear him as he had a look of pure concentration on his face. After a while he turned to Binghe yet it was as though he wasn't fully seeing him. He began to speak hurriedly but it mostly devolved into mumbles.

"I knew there was something weird... of course, you've always been too handsome.. is this a new adventure? Wait..Yu-er.. did you leave for him? Oh, oh was there some conspiracy to overthrow you again but also to kill Yu-er because it has been realized that he's going to be your heir.. is his bloodline very powerful? Could he be used as some way to hurt you?? Some blood ritual magic.. Could it be chapter 647's..." he continued to mumble to himself and Binghe.. wasn't sure how to feel. "—Of course you are going to be returning to court and taking back your kingdom now as soon as you deal with your enemies and oh! Of course I can continue to teach Yu-er unless you had other thoughts which I could maybe be an advisor but I probably am not good for the job—"

"—No!" Binghe was stricken.

Shen Yuan paused with his mouth still open in the middle of a sentence to stare at Binghe with his huge guileless eyes. He looked hurt and Binghe was confused until realizing that he was misunderstanding.

Taking a deep breath, Binghe explained. "I.. This one will not be returning to court, to his rule, his palace.." he shuddered. "Nor to the harem."

"Oh.."

"I understand how Shen-xiansheng may not want anything to do with me now but I just.. hated it. I did not like who I was. Who I had become.. Now I have a new life here... with my son."

Shen Yuan stared at him and Binghe tried not to squirm under his gaze. He knew it, this was the moment that it was the final straw and of course Shen Yuan, perfect sweet Shen Yuan wouldn't want h—

"Okay."

"Okay?" Binghe blinked in shock.

"We can just stay here." He said it so easily that Binghe he wasn't sure he wasn't just imagining it.

"We?" he asked to be sure.

Shen Yuan blushed and looked aside. The tips of his ears were red. "W-Well only if you still want me here? I can understand if not of course— oh and I promise I won't say anything! ..I don't actually have many people to tell to anyway..." he trailed off.

It felt like Binghe's heart started beating again as he was filled with such relief. Shen Yuan didn't seem to care about all the Binghe's past (and from previous conversations, Shen Yuan weirdly seemed to know *a lot* of Binghe's past,) and he didn't seem to be afraid of Binghe, not even for a single moment since he found out who Binghe used to be.

Binghe couldn't contain himself and with a burst of courage and giddiness, picked up Shen Yuan spinning him around in pure happiness. Shen Yuan squawked in surprise but after a moment or two, tentatively returned the embrace.

Settling down, Binghe tucked Shen Yuan's head under his chin and hummed before proposing...

...dinner.

"Oh, okay..." Shen Yuan seemed to think of something before he looked at Binghe with furrowed brows. "Wait.. but.... does... you... you actually get your ingredients from the endless abyss??"

Binghe just threw his head back and laughed.