Chapter Text
For as long Xie Lian could remember,it was always just him and his father,nothing else,no one else.His father—Jun Wu had the aura of an authoritarian master who will make you copy the same script thirteen times as punishment (and he would).But he has a kind heart above all.Their life were not fated with luxury nor riches,a simple cottage hidden deep in the woods and a breathtaking view of the mountains.Pure white clouds covered the tips of them on winter’s arrival as the snow spreads to the forest.Overtime Xie Lian’s eye caught a few foxes and ferrets whisking around,playing with the snow and returning home with a fever
On the warmer days,every morning Xie Lian's routine would begin—training with Jun Wu by the scenery always welcoming him.The faintest memory was him running through the fields,dragging ridiculously long hair behind.Jun Wu had to braid it almost every night to make sure it wouldn't tangle much,for a seven-year-old the hair already reached the floor!
When they finished calligraphy lesson,Xie Lian put down the ink brush and asked how Jun Wu found him in the first place.As Jun Wu told him he has been adopted but never really heard the tale.The older man sighed and looked at Xie lian with a soft smile.
From afar he looks like a youthful prince rather than a master,but with closer look you can see his true age by his manners and tone.Jun Wu's hand let go of the ink brush and looked at the field once more
How can I forget?You were a infant crying by the river,I happen to pass by to rest from my travels.Hearing your cries–I took a peek in the bamboo basket,you were so small.I was afraid the wind would easily sweep you away.Eventually your cries died down when I took you with me,it's a heaven's delight that I have found you during my travels
It truly was,Xie Lian was abandoned by the river—how cruel!He wondered ever since why he was left for dead,what were his parents thinking?
What happened to them?
But alas,Xie Lian as little kid stopped thinking about it,Jun Wu spared him with a kind heart and adopted him—as a discipline and a son raised with Daoist values and the arts of cultivation.At age of eight Xie lian already took interested in the arts of sword,Jun Wu unable to go against his son's wishes let him.As Xie Lian grew older into a fine man,his use of cultivation grew richer and richer.
Jun Wu was watching him from afar with a proud smile as he leap up impressively through the air and destroyed more dummies in blink of an eye,the man-made wood creations were not spared from Xie Lian's precise slashes and graceful swings of his gifted sword—Fang Xin
He also noticed Xie Lian desiring to waltz away from the field,leave the comforting orange forest and see what's beyond the mountains.The youth didn't have to say it,Jun Wu saw how he gazed at the distant forest and passerby travelers,who stopped for a rest under the shadow of the trees.Xie Lian had to be reminded every time that he couldn't reveal themselves to the world—Jun Wu was very clear about hiding away in order to be safe
For thirteen years that's how it's been
Until one evening Xie Lian returned to their cottage after gathering their dried robes,hair braided and bared his eyebrows in confusion when he saw Jun Wu with bags
Xie Lian's mind buried that look Jun Wu gave him when he said "We are leaving A-Lian come with me" He couldn't describe it but the man wasn't in panic–awfully calm with relaxed eyebrows and crossed hands behind.There wasn't much to pack but Xie lian circled his thoughts–why of all a sudden they had to leave,did Jun Wu find a new location to cultivate?Or was it something else?
"Where are we going?" He asked,not coming to any conclusion on his own
The questions were answered when they reached a path much deeper into the woods,so deep that the animals roaming around were no more to be seen.Jun Wu lead Xie lian to a tall building hidden among the trees,as they walked closer it became even longer,so long it could reach the heavens.They settled in after digging for a passage,the space inside looked bigger than the outside—Xie lian poked his head out of the window.It was harder to see the field now,covered by the wall of forest and he could make out a few thorny bushes creeping through--some branches wrapped around the tower's bricks and cracks
"This is our home now" Jun Wu calmly stated
From that day Xie Lian wasn't allowed to leave the tower
***
Suspicious dark smoke filled the room with a nasty smell,some of it escaping from the windows.Xie Lian helplessly looked at the pan with a smile "Did I skip a step?" But he followed all the instructions on the bamboo scroll,strange isn't it?
The food turned into a color he had never seen and while the young cultivator developed all sorts of skills in the past,cooking is where any sane person would dread as if they encountered a ruthless spirit.A single taste of it is equivalent to poison but doesn't stop Xie Lian from trying to master it—unsurprisingly he enjoyed cooking regardless.Xie Lian opened all the windows of the tower as the smoke has to escape before Jun Wu returns.
If he finds out he will forbidden Xie Lian from touching that pan again.Not like he didn't try Xie Lian's cooking before,last time Jun Wu was on the verge of gagging when he took a spoonful.Every swallow made the master rethink his life decisions and Xie Lian helplessly watched the life drain off his face
After a few minutes the smoke vanished, Xie Lian closed the windows and dragged behind his hair on the floo.He stared outside from one open window for a while.How long has it been since he took a step outside,six years?Xie Lian raised a few plants (he wasn't good with them either) in his room but he craved the touch of trees and grass overtime,desiring to run through the fields again and enjoy the falling snow.The tower was bigger than it appeared from outside but the space still limited.All Jun Wu claimed was
"It is safer for us here,focus on your cultivation without any distractions now"
So Xie Lian trained like he used to but occasionally at night,his eyes were locked in the sky and longingly gaze.On the night he turned fourteen he climbed on the rooftop to stargaze—a city stood proud afar.Xie Lian awed at sight of it,then suddenly bright yellow lights emerged out of it
Xie lian squinted his eyes–his mind didn't decipher what he was looking at but they grew bigger in numbers and spread through the sky like stars
Lanterns
Thousands of them across the valley–a few boats released even more and the entire sky was filled with little orange and yellow lights, illuminating the dark sky and Xie Lian's room alone.
It was beautiful,so beautiful …Xie Lian thought.Eyes couldn't be taken off the image until majority of the lanterns flew out to unknown.The following day he asked Jun Wu about it
"Yesterday I saw a city releasing lanterns..”
“Mhm,I have seen before while I was returning”
"Its tradition passed through a gone kingdom,it was a long time ago when a crown prince was born.In honor,the Emperor and Queen celebrated by releasing thousands of lanterns into the sky–Thus Thousands Lanterns Festival.So grand that other kingdoms were invited to watch and all classes enjoyed the arrival of summer.Even after that great kingdom vanished many others picked on that tradition" He chuckled "But they don't know it's original purpose,they believe it's for summer celebration instead"
What a crazy coincidence,Xie Lian’s birthday was on the same day!Gazing at those lanterns before bed made it even more special.What a way to end his birthday
If only...he could see them closely
His birthday is coming in two weeks,his cultivation path is consistent and he is grown enough to step outside,Xie Lian picked up his hair away from the kitchen.Vaguely reminded himself every time to do this,the strands were too close to the stove
Shifu,I am not a little princess--I can handle myself out there .It will be only once! It's okay to break one cultivation rule in a lifetime.Wasn't entirely true,younger Xie Lian definitely broke some of them but–
Xie lian thoughts were disturbed when he heard an echoed call behind him
"Xie Lian!"
Looks like he didn't need to practice his lines anymore.Xie Lian gathered most of his silk hair and rushed to the window opening
"Coming,shifu!"Xie Lian yelled back
His hair were placed on a sturdy hook,the brunette did an experimental pull to ensure the safety of it,eyes traveled down to a waiting Jun Wu, carrying a basket on his back and a sword attached to the belt
"Hurry up Lian’er i might get old already" He let out with a smile,a couple of seconds passed before brown hair fell down til Jun Wu's ankles.This small practice started a few years back,Jun Wu used fly up with his sword but seeing Xie lian determined to improve his physique and waste less spiritual energy.Tthe seventy feet long hair proves to be useful after all
Aren't you already old shifu? Xie Lian took a deep breath,fingers gripped tightly on the locks and pulled up.With every pull his muscles tightened but Xie lian kept going like Jun Wu weighted nothing.Shortly after the young cultivator met with Jun Wu's eyes
He swiftly climbed through the wooden window,landed smoothly on his feet with a tap! "What's that smell Lian-er?" Asked Jun Wu when he paused his steps
"I prepare some food,is this shifu perhaps hungry from travels? "Xie Lian asked while getting his hair off the hook,unaware of the paleness that took over Jun Wu's face upon hearing those words
He quickly rambled "I am not hungry I just ate lunch at my last rest" He set down the traveling basket on the floor next to the table "Ah–Which reminds me" Something from it has been digged out,a small box was handed to Xie Lian
"Picked it up from the souvenir shop,count it as an early birthday gift" Jun smiled a bit, returning to emptying his basket and the whole room fell silent
Xie Lian blinked,looked at the box–nearly large as his palm,bright red in color and whatever continent was in it weighed lightly.But if it was an early gift that means-
"Shifu,are you leaving again,so soon?"
"I am afraid so" Jun Wu glimpsed at Xie Lian "Something urgent came up and I need to take care of it,how unlucky of me...I won't be present in your birthday so I am making it for now”
The youth stared down at the red box, curiosity filled him of the continents inside but then he curled his lips "Then I won't open it now.I can wait,thank you" That sent Jun Wu into laughter
"It's not something big but if you insist on being patient"
Right, Xie Lian watched his shifu storing the supplies one by one,inhaling as he took a deep breath. "I deeply appreciate the gift,shifu.May I request one more thing?"
"And what would that be?" Asked Jun Wu flatly
Excitement,anxiety and everything else prickled the youth's core but went ahead and opened his mouth "I want to go to see the lanterns" Xie Lian paused "Up close this time"
Not even a second passed,Jun Wu replied with a stern "Absolutely not" the time to have second thoughts was non existent, just a 'no' to end this conversation but Xie lian kept going,the answer alone frustrated him deeply
"Why?I followed all the Daoist rules and never tried to sneak out as you asked,can't I visit the outside for once?Or at least tag along when you collect supplies?"
"The outside is cruel and unforgiving,it's not anything worth to risk yourself for.A-lian we had this conversation already and you still want to toy with my tolerance."
Jun Wu wasn't furious Xie Lian however sensed that frustration within his bones and wasn't the first time they had this type of heated debate.On the first days after being locked up,Xie Lian demanded to go outside again,growing stuffy and bored of this tower.Natural for a thirteen year old child to be upset,the amount of headaches Jun Wu had that weekend were painful enough to calm the youth down
"So this is the path you choose for me?Locked all day and night till the day I die?!" Xie Lian raised his voice and gripped his fists,a thud followed after–Jun Wu had slapped his large hand on the wooden table "Xie Lian!" The commanding voice didn't stop the young cultivator from digging his own grave
"If it is so dangerous out there let me go with you!I am not a helpless child anymore!"
"Enough Xie Lian!Why do you want to corrupt yourself so badly?!I have seen more evil in this world,to hide you from wickedness is now a sin?"
Xie Lian's breath hitched,Jun Wu hit a nerve
"Answer me,A-lian.Am I now a bad father and master for what?For protecting you?"
Jun Wu's shadow towered over Xie Lian's figure "Haven't I given everything you needed?To lock you away was the last thing I wanted.."Jun Wu continued
"but I had no choice left,we could be easily be discovered in that old cottage,disrupt our peace and suffer.I tried to give you everything yet seems like your needs aren't fulfilled"
"Shifu please don't twist my words,I am grateful for everything!"At this point Xie Lian's voice became hoarse,he didn't know whether to laugh or cry.Oh heavens,this conversation was nearly impossible
But then why do I keep training on sword skills?To defend myself from what?The cellar cockroaches?No offense to palace pest controls but-
Jun Wu sighed like his body let out a burden "I understand your excitement but for such a long journey,to risk yourself getting robbed, harassed or ridiculed?Besides,you can see the lanterns from far away" That caused Xie lian to close his eyes and dive into his thoughts
That wasn't alone enough,they were like fireflies from this view—which meant the journey will be long and required preparation.Sneaking needed more time and care,pretty odd how Jun Wu is going to absent around this time.Still,it was an opportunity as Jun Wu doesn't miss my birthdays
"It's not only about that.."Xie Lian's anger deflated,regaining his calmer and usual composure.A hand was placed on his shoulder and he left his mouth agape
"I am only saving you the trouble.One day you will understand and might even thank me"
"I want to understand shifu,I really do.."
Xie lian responded weakly against Jun Wu’s tonal and powerful voice
This has to be more believable,of course Xie lian was aware that the yelling wasn't needed but he couldn't help himself.Jun Wu's intentions were clear as ever,and the time he spent on the tower wasn't bad either.However his master still got fresh air,stretched his legs while fetching supplies and wasn't stuck inside all day.Scrolls,folk tales and Daoist cultivation guided him to picture the outside world, ever since Jun Wu caused him night terrors with the scary bedtime stories,those lanterns created something warm inside his chest: a beckon of what's good in the world? In the people?
Xie lian wasn't going to give up any time soon
The master relaxed his shoulders "I know you are going through a more rebellion phase but I promise,you won't regret it"
Sigh,he still thinks I am a little princess .Xie Lian swallowed down the thought,maybe it was a fatherly instinct but Xie Lian is no longer a moody teen.He will turn nineteen in a few days!
The hand from his shoulder was pulled away,he looked at Jun Wu "So,how about I try baking something?Does shifu crave anything in particular?" asked Xie Lian with a beam
Jun Wu's face turned pale,he shook his hand "Lian-er,how about we don't waste more ingredients?Spare some for the stew and steamed buns" The brunette didn't disagree to that.Too bad though–he really wanted to bake something.
"I guess next time.."
The night fell quickly
Xie Lian finished off his steamed buns and shoved one in his sleeve,a rather unusual habit he committed since childhood.Outside he occasionally sat down near the streams, chew down the buns while watching Jun Wu meditate in the distance over some rocks
"Even if I can't make it to the lanterns,maybe I can visit the old cottage.." Xie Lian braided his hair lazily, freely loose on his shoulders and rest of part fell to the floor.A puff created when he let himself fall on the mattress
I will find a way out
***
" The Crown Prince's crown has been stolen,seize them!"
"DON'T JUST STAND THERE!"
"WRENCHED THIEF!!STOP THIS MAN!!"
The ruckus caused a whole group of heavy footsteps,heads dash to a singular hallway leading to a golden thick door.Among the chaos one man with a powerful kick knocked it down–earning a shuttering BAM!
The youth's eyes widened at the empty display box,broken pieces of glass scattered down to its feet and the guards entered all together.Eyes went to the ceiling and pointed fingers at a man sized hole on it
A man with red robes and black boots escaped from it
"Close all the gates now!!"One barked at the top of his lungs
***
Useless idiots,you call yourselves proper security ?
The proper security in question chased him down from below the streets.Hua Cheng however leaped through the rooftops skillfully,even gracefully as if he mocked the guards.One of them gritted his teeth so hard they are the verge of breaking—pathetic and pitiful all of them honestly
As he shoved the trinket inside a sack stitched onto his silver belt,an arrow flashed in front of his sight.Then another one missed his arm and yet another one barely hit the head.Hua Cheng legs unstoppably moved to the rooftops and saw the entrance to his sight
Whoever tried to kill him was quite skilled but not enough
Hua Cheng smiled sardonically at the frustration of the guards but perhaps get better security next time,I am one man after all.
"He is going to get away!" A man cried out loud
"Guard the entrance!Prepare the arrows!!"
At the city entrance a big group of armed men blocked the main door,their weapons pointed sharp at Hua Cheng's direction.The other smaller groups west and east directed arrows then waited for the perpetual to be cornered.Hua Cheng did one final jump before crouch landing in front of the army.Without wasting any second the archers shoot at the red robed criminal.What they didn't know though is that Hua Cheng aka 'Crimson Rain Sought Flower' legendary thief is more cunning than the rumors give credit for
The arrows were fast but Hua Cheng faster and more wry,shielded his body with a summoned item out of thin air.More than fifty arrows darted in this circular red shield but not a single pierce through it,wide eyed the archers pointed fingers
"Is that a fucking umbrella?" One of the archers let out as if his eyes were deceiving him
"I heard they will pay lots for Crimson Rain Sought Flower's head!"
"After him!"
Hua Cheng chuckled darkly,with one arm he swinged the umbrella towards the men and to everyone's shock–the arrows darted back at them!No one had time to react,many were pierced from their own arrows and some had fallen from fatal strikes.Very few remained unharmed and lucky,any surviving archers stubbornly attempted to strike the thief again
Proven to be useless against him,,Hua Cheng's umbrella blocked them in time
"Have you forgotten?" He asked but it didn't sound like a question so one dared to answer
"I was never caught and you,useless trash think you are capable?"
"Not this time, Crimson Rain Sought Flower!!" A male voice yelled behind him
Oh great,more of them
Behind him two young men held their weapons,one held a bow and the other a saber.Hua Cheng recognized the voice–it belonged to the brunette holding the crescent bow.The other raven haired male holding the saber barked at him "Shame on you!Stealing the last belongings of the Crown Prince,don't you have any empathy!?"
"If I remember correctly,I did not ask for your opinions,if I was the Crown Prince I would be embarrassed to know that my treasure were stolen by one man.Your guarding is pathetic"
"You-!"
"Give them up right now!" The brunette demanded,Hua Cheng raised his eyebrow at them
"Oh?Or else what?" Or else what .
Kill him?
Snatch the crown back?
Neither of those were an option
“We will sent the entire capitol for your head” The brunette spit out
Ha
"Then come at me" Said Hua Cheng with a grin
That was the last stroke.Suddenly the saber wielder pounced at him,his silhouette shadowed by the full moon as he held the weapon up–ready to strike right on Hua Cheng's head.A clash of light nearly blinded the brunette,then a cacophony emitted from the fight.The moonlight reflected a shiny weapon that definitely didn't belong to the saber wielder.A bloody red eye glowed close to the handle,this was no pathetic blade that any beggar would use.Hua Cheng lazily blocked the attacks and barely was swept off his feet from the impact,the other youth then realized what the thief was using
"The death scimitar?!You stole that too didn't you!Bastard!" The brunette youth withdrew his bow,from witnessing the fate of the other guards he knew arrows were now useless.He will fight with his fists if he has to!
Now Hua Cheng was faced with two ballistic guards that want back a mere crown,they attacked him from both sides and with each dodging and blocking,their bloody anger grew.Hua Cheng’s moves remained calm,gaining the upper hand as the scimitar gave one powerful blow that almost shook the ground–and the raven haired guard let out a grunt from his chest.He was thrown back with a welp when the bow wielder hopped to punch Hua Cheng,only for his wrist to be caught right before the hit.He yelled when Hua Cheng threw him as well,both guards crashed into each other's bodies
Before they manage to get up Hua Cheng was gone already
***
Finally
Sneaking his way into the capitol drained energy out of him,nonetheless these two guards (if they were worthy being called that) made fool out of themselves.Hua Cheng camped outside and started a fire,it slowly burned not to draw attention,the bag secured below his arm and wiggled slightly from the movement
He murmured to himself "Can't believe there was so much fuss about this.." He opened the bag and took a peek inside,relieved nothing broken or damaged.This 'Crown Prince' treasure undeniably possessed quality,long ago the crown was forged out of gold,adorned with gems of all sizes,each detail delicate of scalped exquisite flower patterns.Not too light nor heavy,in perfect weight.Before making his way into the capitol that once used to be one Xianle’s allies,he heard the tale of it's fall.Many did,passed down like a legend out of pages but it was real–all of it misfortunes real as they could get
Many writers and poets picked up on the tragedy of the kingdom,however most of its continents were modified or dramatized.Specifically on one member of the last royal family of Xianle–the Crown Prince
The five year old Crown Prince is a character that often gets interpreted in many ways,historically it is unknown about his whereabouts.The tomb of the Emperor and Queen were found by grave robbers, confirming their deaths to the world.As for the Crown Prince,there was not a single whisper about him ever since the royal family escaped the palace.Naturally storytellers narrated vastly different versions of his fate,with no backed evidence, naturally.
Stories exist such as:
“The Crown Prince became a wandering soul on the streets,everyday forcing his feet up to entertain the crowd by joggling or collecting scraps of food.The downfall of a youngling that will never remember his parents nor his past life,how pitiful!”
Or perhaps something more heroic?
“But the Crown Prince was no match for monsters and ghosts!To protect his parents from incoming threats,the young heir of Xianle cultivated every day with iron will until he ascended to the heavens and became one of the many martial Gods we know today”
Less tragic but a little exaggerated?
“What hero?What poor beggar?The Crown Prince’s soul became stained with rage and bloodlust,poisoned by his own thirst for revenge upon the people of Yong’an!It is no coincidence that the family of Yong’an was also slaughtered on a night after feasting!The murderer is not caught yet,at last the sole survivor of the family–Prince Tai Hua claimed he witnessed someone escaping from the massacre.A young man,dressed in neat clothes (now covered by the blood of his own parents) and held a maniac smile on his face”
“Who else could it be but the Prince seeking revenge!”
Talk about brutality but is there a possibility?
Xianle fell fourteen years ago,if the Prince survived he would be nineteen years old now.Storytellers keep that boy’s memories alive like a legendary figure to play around with,Hua Cheng traced his thoughts as he chewed down his cooked meal
He was just a little boy with dead parents yet he is treated as a character straight out of dramas.A historical mystery and already a legend, at the end it doesn't matter–Xianle is a wasteland full of bandits and thieves,a fool can only believe it can restored back to its glory
Hua Cheng stared down–fixated on the crown,standing perfectly on the palm of his hand
This crown was the last piece of that bygone kingdom
Well,too bad .He won't pawn or sell it to the market,as much as he wanted to.Someone has requested this luxurious item,his client–someone he really wants to smash his head against the wall until his skull turns into porridge
That someone was none other than another useless trash:Qi Rong
Qi Rong,a despicable man with a yapping mouth and non-stop slandering.He lead a gang of bandits (his “followers” which were a bunch of buffoons kissing his feet for few pieces of bread) and established his own underground organization,a black market of selling forbidden goods and living the life of a grand thief.While Qi Rong lacked physical strength,he can easily slip away like a damn cockroach.He was one of land's most wanted criminals,for stealing,selling illegally, murder and insulting multiple people's bloodlines
In simple words Qi Rong was unbearable
When the time of delivering that thing comes,Qi Rong will get off his back.Leaving with a hefty paycheck for the work,Hua Cheng only agreed to this because he knows–if Qi Rong doesn't drop the bag of merits he will get sliced in half by the Death Scimitar or as he called ‘E-ming’
Hua Cheng swallowed down the last piece of his pancake and threw the crown back to the sack,the fire burned for a little longer before Hua Cheng rested on the ground using his hands for any bare comfort.The crickets singing from the closest river gave him a little reassurance,before moving to bigger cities he curled himself close to caves or abandoned temples.Any sound of nature gave him some short of soothing
And the voice of a boy he will never forget
Hua Cheng’s eyes stayed open all night until the sunrise
***
The following morning Xie Lian woke up nearly restless, nonetheless didn't stop him from getting up and start the day.One eyed he braided his hair enough and headed for the kitchen,bare feet touching cold the floor but Xie Lian’s body was used to the shivering nights to save some wood
“Had a good night's sleep,Lian’er?”
Oh ,Xie lian popped his head up,blithely and scratched his cheek “Well not a bad one”
Jun Wu pleasantly hummed back “I will take my leave now” The heavy bag was lifted effortlessly,resting on the old man's shoulders “It is uncertain when I return but expect in a few hours”
“Have a safe trip shifu..” Xie lian watched Jun Wu descend down while gripping his hair,none of them exchanged a word until Jun Wu stepped on the ground and released the hair
“Farewell!”
Xie lian sat down on the table, furtive of what he is about to do—the second Jun Wu disappears within the woods,he will start packing some necessities like food and water (clothes are out of question when Jun Wu only gave him one robe–still miraculously fits after seven years!)
There was one issue that has been fixed on Xie Lian's mind ever since—he has no idea how to get to that city.Sure he was aware of the location by looking at the sun's position and all.Southwest close to the sea and Xie Lian calculated approximately how long travel will take by foot
Which is…two weeks!
Fantastic
Also Xie lian never once stepped outside of their woods—wary of the potential monsters and vengeful spirits that Jun Wu narrated after his travels,Xie Lian was trained how to defend himself but what if he doesn't know what he is dealing with?
Which reminded him to pack one last thing–Fang Xin–his gifted and only sword he possessed.It was rather old and mildly rusty but Xie lian found it much handy for the trip,lastly…he needed to do something about his hair
He could just chop it off but his hair never really burdened him,Jun Wu shared that cutting hair is a vulgar act if you aren't persuading a monk's path—If Xie Lian returns from the Thousand Lanterns Festival he can't explain why he would cut his own hair so suddenly.Besides,it's not that bad–his hair served as a rope so it will be easy to get around it (Xie Lian still has no idea how sturdy they are,he was truly blessed with weird strands)
His hair also didn't pick up any dirt or trash—they remained cleaner than most of his body, which should be the opposite considering their state,but what if they get grabbed during a fight?
“Looks like I need to braid them first” That will take a while.
***
Useless trash Qi Rong—should have known.
It was the world against Crimson Rain Sought Flower–mostly.The capitols guards chased him like wild dogs and Qi Rong's brainwashed servants wanted to stake his head as well.Hua Cheng's legs dragged him on the dirt path, tightly holding the sack with all his might as he dived deeper into the forest—off limits from his usual territory.
That Qi Rong be damned.
Hua Cheng cussed under his breath when the saber wielder came into his sight,rage filled eyes and his hand reached his back to grab something.The thief would stop on his tracks to withdraw E-ming and duel this man,if it wasn't for his bleeding arm and nerve wracking ache in his legs.Best to avoid for now—which was not easy with that loyal guard chasing him through the dirt path!
He wasn't going to let go of that crown—everyone has been chewing him down for that thing!Even if he returns it,his fate awaits torture and jail in the court,or getting beaten and humiliated in the world of underground thief organizations
Hua Cheng’s hand pushed through the bushes and his lungs burned,close to even exploding but never stopped—his stamina is what made him a grand thief additionally.In advance,the guard behind him slowed down–not keeping up.Hua Cheng hastily took a right to the left and after pushing his legs they finally rested on the ground,the thief ran his hand through the bag for assurance and continue forward.The forest incredibly silent to his ears made him alert,he had to watch out for the other big mouthed guard with the bow as well.
As he drifted further on the path for quite a while,his footsteps became more disoriented— rest ,he needed rest but with what shelter when those useless idiots patrolled around.He decided it's best to treat his wounds while he is out trouble,for now.Hua Cheng abandoned the path and found himself in a strange area,there were thorn bushes around, naturally grown like a wall and a small opening discreetly hidden by a layer of vines.Two male voices barked a few meters away from him,dead setting him to enter the strange opening and end up in whatever the hell this green wall protecting
Hua Cheng’s eyes widened when he finally reached the other end,he stared at it for a couple of seconds before breathing in and out.This is….
A tower?
A very oddly placed one,in the middle of nowhere—possibly from a past dynasty judging by how uncared it appeared from the outside.Either way—his luck favored him once more,a perfect shelter isolated from the outside world.Great timing,eh?
Hua Cheng approached closely and thought to himself, yes it must be abandoned.Even if not,it won't be a problem ,which made his head turn to E-Ming for a second before grabbing a different blade and started climbing in.Pain washed through his body,Hua Cheng toned down his muffled grunts and climbed up until his hands touched the smooth wood of the window.Overcome with relief,Hua Cheng leaped in and landed on the floor with a tap!
Alone at last
Before he could properly observe his surroundings,a change of air cut his celebration and was already too late to draw E-Ming—a sharp pain hit right back on the head and his vision darkened,barely reacting as his knees fell to the floor and essentially wrapped in darkness
Shit
***
Heavens knows how Xie Lian's day escalated that way,his routine consisted of cultivating,training and off duty hobbies like cooking and gardening.Now he is carrying an unconscious stranger to his bedroom!While he prepared another meal,his body acted on autopilot mode (as Jun Wu trained him in case of intruders) and realized he had no sword in his hand–Guess the pan will do!
And it did–the stranger didn't receive fatal injury(much to Xie Lian's relief).He will stay unconscious for some time though,Xie Lian dragged the body to his room and cringed every time the stranger’s boots rapidly hit the stairs.When the stranger dropped boneless to the floor,Xie Lian’s eye fixated on him for a long while—Shame filled over him,Jun Wu is gone and an intruder entered their home out nowhere!Except the intruder was undeniably handsome in all possible ways!
The stranger must be around his age—a youthful face with skin pale as the moon and ink black braided hair loose on his broad shoulder.Each feature of this youth was sharp and precise, not bad at all!
“I have to hide you…before Jun Wu gets back!”. Xie Lian successfully brought him to the room,with not a single sweat drop—lifting Jun Wu for several years paid off!Xie Lian now overwhelmed paused and stared at the unconscious stranger
What if he is dangerous?Could he be a demon in disguise?Demons or spirits wearing human skin to enter people's homes are tales old as time,for all he knows this face can also be fake to deceive him.
“The skin feels very real,no imperfections to be found..” Xie Lian scanned further,the hair also seemed in place,flawless for a human even.Hs eyed on the crimson robes and eventually stopped at the belt,Xie Lian had already seen the sack glued on the cheap material but now he got more curious.
Wouldn't it be bad if I took a peek?
Xie Lian removed the sack off the belt and tested the weight of it, almost light but quite—what is this?
A single item hid under the fabric,luxurious and dedicated to touch–Xie Lian brought it up and his eyes filled with wonder
A headpiece?
Immediately recalled the paintings of beauties wearing such creations, none of them bore the same luxury as this one!Xie Lian in awe at the details,ran his fingers on the sculptured surface—Completely forgetting that a literal person is lying on the floor for a second,Xie Lian rotated the crown to view more details emboldened on it.The golden color particularly interested him,a lovely shade reflecting on the sun arrays with every movement.
Who is this person?
Xie lian turned back to check on the lying stranger, still unconscious.
I should hide him before Jun Wu arrives.
First he used a silk to bound the wrists together,Xie Lian took notice of the injuries and decided to sincerely treat them so there won't be a risk of infection.Not a healer by any means,the least he could do was to clean and bandage them.When Xie Lian finished with the water,he looked down at his own reflection on it,the stranger rested on his bed behind him.
Xie Lian studied his face for a while,then he remembered the crown,it was left beside him on the top of the fabric.
…
It's silly but–
The youth took the crown on his hands and gathered a portion of his hair in a bun, sloppily done but presentable.Using the pin,Xie Lian secured the crown on his bun quickly–Shot his eyes open to his reflection on the bucket
Xie Lian blinked and didn't realize he was smiling until he focused on the reflection,in awe he observed the new look from different angles.The crown matches his eyes and complexion flattering enough,the robes were rags but Xie Lian could pass off as a prince with that smile and headpiece.The youth turned back to check of his intruder,still lying on his place.Xie Lian’s head halted to the right when a shout came from the distance
“Xie lian!Let down your hair!”
Oh no,Jun Wu has returned!
Shaky hands found themselves on the crown,hastily removing it from his bun and stuffed it back into the sack,hidden behind empty pots.Was it the best hiding spot? Probably not!Xie lian mentally noted to find a better one after this,he also hid the stranger in his closet….just in case.
“Xie Lian!”
“I am coming!” Xie Lian shouted back and let down all the hair he gathered on his pale hands for Jun Wu to climb
“About time..” The older man murmured
Xie Lian pulled up Jun Wu and greeted him like always with a tiny smile,the older male hopped in and exchanged a smile in return.While Xie lian was pulling his hair up,an ominous atmosphere shrank him a little.Was Jun Wu more quiet than usual? Happens but considering Xie Lian has a tied man hidden in his closet and plans to escape this tower,it doesn't help anything!
“How was your trip,shifu?”
“Quite well,I brought ingredients for your favorite soup” Jun Wu emptied his basket once again “Is my trusted discipline still on schedule with his lessons?”
“I finished my meditation a few hours ago,and practiced calligraphy.” Xie lian also practiced a technique with his sword for quite a while,he still has yet to perfect it so Xie lian hopes it will be useful one day.
Jun Wu, pleased,took a peek at Xie lian “Excellent..” Jun Wu's bright eyed relaxed but then brooded suddenly,pausing for a few seconds before Xie lian, confused by this looked where his gaze drifted at
Dirt stains.Just below the window
“Xie Lian-”
“I am sorry shifu,the pot fell off my hands earlier!” The youth snapped a second before Jun Wu accuses him,half a lie since Xie lian technically did carry pots around to shower the plants with some sun.The dirt stains undeniably belonged to the intruder,Jun Wu knew as well that the stains couldn't be created from his shoes
“...” Jun Wu sighed “Be more careful next time,and clean this up”
Xie Lian didn't object to the command,he grabbed a wet rag and cleaned it off while Jun Wu skeptically watches from the kitchen
“Lian’er” Jun Wu called
“Yes?”
“You are not thinking of leaving,are you?”
A sweat trickled down to Xie Lian's neck “Why would you think that?” He asked sincerely as possible “Have I attempted to leave before? I don't really think so,shifu doesn't have to worry about this”
Jun Wu’s eyebrows raised “Lian’er,you mustn't think I was born yesterday” He continued “I kept thinking about our conversation yesterday,do you still want to see the lanterns?”
In all honesty to the heavens,yes!
“Shifu,I have been watching those lanterns since my fourteen birthday–they may not be intended for me but I just want to see them close for once” Xie Lian’s eyebrows further furrowed “I still don't understand,why do we have to be kept away from the world?” He drew closer to Jun Wu's figure “I am just asking for one thing” Xie Lian confessed
“I do what's best for you,a parent and a master never wants the worst for their child.Do you want to know why we are staying in this tower?”
“To keep me safe and sound..” Xie Lian finished off with a frown “I can prove I am capable of defending myself!”
“Xie Lian,I thought this conversation was over”
The youth snapped back.The evidence was literally in his closet! “Allow me to prove it for once!”
“Enough Xie liayn!You will never leave this tower–Ever!” Jun Wu furiously deadpanned,a shadow hovered over his eyes and towered over Xie Lian “Your parents are proof that the world is wicked!They abandoned you in the wild,what would happen to you if I didn't pass by?”
Did they really leave me to die?It is cruel but the whole world can't be like this,right?
“Do you think anyone will show the same kindness as me?Think again..” Jun Wu passed next to Xie Lian “You should stop filling your head with such wry thoughts,I am aware of what's best for you.Me,I am just your master,what do I know?”
“And never forget..” Xie Lian was taken back when a hand gently massaged his shoulder, tenderly and Jun Wu flashed a smile “I never regretted saving you from that river,I wouldn't wish for a better son and discipline and I am proud of how far you have come “
“You don't need the outside world to prove your worth” Jun Wu let go of Xie lian's shoulder and returned to preparing the soup,like nothing happened he hummed the lullaby he used to sing to Xie lian before bed
Xie Lian stood speechless but didn't dare to say a word,Jun Wu was a strict master and sometimes rightfully so can yell but Xie lian’s mind wouldn't stop thinking of his words
“I am aware of my worth,that's why I wanted to see the lanterns—the world may be cruel but why does it hide beautiful things?” Asked rhetorical Xie lian but Jun Wu responded anyways
His voice sounded baritone and wise,as expected from someone his age “It’s just mere lanterns,they are like stars–they won't fade away as long traditions exist,I assure you watch them all you want from here” Jun Wu stopped chopping vegetables for a moment
“But if you insist,how about I bring you a lantern from the festival?”
Xie Lian's eyes lit up “Really?”
“If I gather enough coins I can purchase the cheapest one,the festival may be over by the time I return but would Lian’er like this gift?” Asked Jun Wu
Xie Lian beamed–Jun Wu has a little heart after all. “Of course!Thank you!”
Jun Wu returned to chopping the vegetables with a clever,the room fell in awkward silence and Xie Lian tipped away from the kitchen to go upstairs.One last glance from afar to ensure Jun Wu wasn't suspecting anything. The old master still hummed while throwing the chopped ingredients into the pot,distracted and unbothered.
Xie Lian dashed back into his room and shut the door behind,releasing a sigh of relief he turned around and realized he celebrated too soon.
The closet was shaking!
Oh,he just had to be awake now!Now that Jun Wu is downstairs!
If he has risen now,it means the pan hit wasn't horrendous–Xie Lian knew wrapping his mouth with silk wasn't a bad idea! Though he had to calm the intruder down or else…
Xie Lian’s hands gripped the handlers tight and prepared for the worst,no one knows what this stranger is capable of–Fang Xin rested on his belt for assurance.The closet doors opened with a dramatic swing and Xie lian felt a crashing weight overtaking him.The stranger (accidentally?) leaped onto him and both fell on the floor with a huge THUD
“Xie Lian?What in the heavens was that?” Jun Wu called from downstairs,shit!
They wiggled together in a bodily mess,Xie Lian out of panic held the stranger on top of him–not the best position but the intruder moved too much!Xie Lian used all his strength to keep him place,he screamed back to Jun Wu
“I am all good,shifu!I just fell down!” Clumsy me,right?Don't come here!!
Jun Wu’s voice hasn't come from downstairs,neither of his footsteps can't be heard–good!Xie Lian flipped themselves over and finally took a glance at the stranger
I should ask his name,can't keep calling him ‘stranger’ all the time
The raven haired youth’s eyebrows furrowed,limps and body wiggling non-stop but slowly he deflated his adrenaline as he realized Xie Lian wasn't hurting him yet?
“Listen to me..” Xie Lian's voice smoothly calm and warm,coming as whispery as he signaled on his lips to keep quiet.The stranger by now realized they weren't alone,an authoritarian figure was inside this tower and whoever is this…beauty with long hair is,was scared of him.
“We live in this tower and you technically badged in,even if not intentionally..” Xie Lian made sure to read the other youths body language,it relaxed by a little and his crimson eyes fixated on him.Crimson red,what an interesting color-–Xie Lian didn't get the chance to see them before,they are definitely beautiful and unique.They are not like Jun Wu’s stormy gray eyes nor his own earthy brown ones
“So I will not hurt you,I am sorry for binding you but I had no choice” Xie Lian got off the red eyed youth,hoping he didn't scare him too much.He came from this outside world.This was his chance!
“My master is here and if he finds out you are here,he might hurt you..” Or maybe both of them but Xie Lian thought it wasn't the time to materialize scenarios
The other young man seemed to understand,observing his surroundings while still sat on the floor.Xie lian initiates he was staring at the pots or stacked up scrolls but he was studying his hair,long and luscious laying all over the room.Xie Lian kneeled closer to him
“You can call me Xie Lian and you don't have to be afraid.I can't unbind you yet,you are still an intruder to my home but I can let you talk–promise not to yell?”
Nod nod nod, was all the red robbed male signaled
“Good..now let me..” Xie lian gently untied the silk around the mouth and thought, hope it wasn't too tight? The silk now held by Xie Lian's hands,allowed the other youth to inhale for a second.Xie Lian expected anything from him, confusion,demands or even curses.Wouldn't blame him not on the situation he got trapped in, no they both got trapped in.
Xie Lian is equally responsible for lying to Jun Wu but it's for the best,the punishment can come later!
Unexpectedly,the youth’s mouth carved into a smile and casually confessed
“Gege is stronger than I expected,no one has knocked me out like this before”
Xie Lian blinked
He was not mad?What a refined yet odd young man
It was the very first time he had heard the intruder's voice,deep and rich but still youthful and almost boyish.Just how old was this person?
“May I know your name?” Xie Lian helped the youth get up as he was still restricted by the silk “and how old are you?”
“Gege can call me San Lang,i will turn eighteen very soon”
“Now Sang Lang,we need to keep it down until Jun Wu leaves”
“Sounds like you are scared of him” This wasn't an insult nor a mockery,a fair statement that Xie Lian wouldn't deny
He sighed helplessly. “You were not supposed to find this tower,how did San Lang find himself here?”
San Lang was sitting on the chair leg crossed “I was getting chased by some idiots,lost my way into the forest and by mere coincidence found this tower,then I clim—” San Lang’s mouth left agape before he looked around “Has Gege seen my bag?”
Oh that thing
Xie Lian smiled “I hid it”
“...”
“You hid them behind your pots,didn't you?”
“San Lang has a good eye..” Xie Lian pushed aside the clay pots and reached for the sack,he opened it to check if the crown was tact,it seemed precious after all.That second,Xie Lian noticed something,on the bottom of the sack a scrambled paper? How had he missed this?
When it was pulled out Xie lian unfolded carefully and raised his eyebrows
An ink minimal painting of a young man with a smug expression and characteristic braid sitting on his shoulder.With big syllables on the sides it said
WANTED: CRIMSON RAIN SOUGHT FLOWER
This individual is wanted by several cities and now by the capitol,catch at all costs.Be careful of his powerful scimitar and deceiving tactics,the captor will be greatly rewarded by the Emperor
Crimson Rain Sought Flower.
What a title
Xie Lian turned back to the sitting San Lang “Does this crown belong to San Lang?”
San Lang made a dramatic sound of defeat “Oh,you caught me.Indeed, i stole this crown and the capitol’s dogs are after me” San Lang pouted “They didn't even get my nose right”
Indeed,San Lang had more of a straight thin nose but the painter captured his essence
“Just as I thought,you looked panicked when you entered the tower…tell me San Lang” Xie Lian put the paper away “Can I trust you?” The answer was obvious,if he was a wanted criminal who could put a trust on that?The powerful scimitar that was mentioned was placed on the corner when Xie Lian treated the injuries,relatively San Lang was harmless for the moment
“Depends,I am not interested in this tower nor why you are hiding from the world” That was true,the crown safely hidden in the bag appeared far more expensive than probably Xie Lian himself
“I will never speak of this place if that's what Gege wants” San Lang stated
“For me it doesn't matter who San Lang is,I just hope we can agree on something if you want to get back this crown” Xie lian approached San Lang “You are a thief,you must know this land better than anyone else–am I correct?” he lowered his gaze to San Lang's half lidded eyes
San Lang tilted his head “I know this land rock by rock”
Xie Lian smiled “Where is the Lantern Festival held and how far can we reach by foot?”
“The Lantern Festival in annually celebrated in Bai Lihua,seaside next to the capitol city” San Lang explained while Xie lian, intrigued listened carefully “Travelers by foot usually take up to one or two weeks but if you pass through Banyue you save yourself some time”
“How much time?”
“A week or less”
Banyue sounded familiar,somewhere in Xie Lian's mountain of scrolls were such characters scripted.Either way San Lang sounded truthful to his words,the crown,while very beautiful,wasn't valuable to Xie Lian—he will gladly trade it to go see the lanterns!
“I want to make a deal”
The thief’s crimson eyes lit up “Oh?What does gege want me to do?”
The ‘wanted’ fryer was packed back into the sack and placed on the small table,Xie Lian circled San Lang “You are going to take me to the lanterns by the fastest route,escort me back to the tower and only then–” His head turned to San Lang
Those brows eyes were locked onto crimson ones “I will give you back the crown.”
San Lang is awfully calm in the situation he is in but there is a mutual understanding that Xie Lian is more than happy for,thief or not.
“Is that all?Take you to the festival and return here?”
“Yes”
A soft hum followed “I will gladly escort his highness but” San Lang’s eyebrows straightened,leg crossed he leaned to the wall “The capitol and I aren't on friendly terms,the whole area might be infected with guards and drag our tails”
His highness, it doesn't sound bad coming from him
“Is Banyue our best option?”
“Banyue and ‘safe’ don't go together,if we pass through we need to prepare”
***
“Has San Lang ever been to the Thousands Lanterns Festival?”
The sun settled down to the mountains,stars sprinkled across the darkening sky.Two figures sat across each other,the long haired youth seated close to the window while the thief now released from the silk,sat on a chair,legged crossed and idly eased and followed where Xie Lian was staring—at the view.The moonlight made Xie Lian's pale skin glow as he face longingly fixated on Bai Lihua,San Lang switched legs on his positions and opened his mouth
“I never really attended it but I always think the lanterns are a great guide during the nightfall” San Lang stared at the ceiling “There was only once when an old lady offered her spare lantern to me,I was ten and barely could buy myself bread.I released it across the shore and made a wish”
“What did you wish for?” Xie Lian curiously asked
“...”
“Oh I didn't mean-”
“Gege doesn't have to worry,I will tell you” San Lang and Xie Lian still almost whispered to each other—Jun Wu has gone to sleep after dinner (afterwards Xie Lian returned with steamed buns he sneaked into his sleeve,as San Lang promised he didn't run away nor attempted to escape).Xie Lian couldn't believe this was real,he had never talked to any person besides Jun Wu!Well,birds and rats scattered in the tower’s walls don't count.
“My only wish was to find someone”
Xie Lian flashed an empathetic smile “Has the wish come true?”
San Lang only answered “Never in my life have I believed in miracles,my ten year old self had a beacon of hope when I lit that lantern…” Xie Lian couldn't read his face but figured that San Lang was hesitant of his answers,the conversation won't press any deeper into it.Xie Lian decided to change the subject
“Jun Wu will leave in two days so that leaves us with two weeks of traveling to Bai Lihua and back here”
“I am curious,you know” San Lang's palms now placed on his thighs to balance himself “Is the Thousands Lanterns Festival your only goal?”
Which translates to are you sure that's the only thing you want to do when you get out of this scrawny tower?
“Well…” Xie Lian leaped off the window and sat on the bed “It also happens on my birthday! That's the only I have seen of the outside world” Besides vegetable fields and travelers from afar that he couldn't even approach,Jun Wu's scrolls left him imagine the possibilities.
San Lang’s smile turned into a frown “Has this old man locked you out forever?”
“He said it was for my safety..” Xie Lian laughed lightly afterwards
San Lang leaned close to the sitting Xie Lian,their face a few inches away from touching “How about we start tonight Gege?”
His eyes widened,hands shaking back and forth in defense “Tonight?!But I haven't packed anything yet!”
“Then start packing”
“Wait!I did pack but–”
“The sooner,the better ”The youth in red robes straightened his legs and got up,a hand stretched out for Xie Lian to reach,San Lang's shadow hovered over Xie Lian while the moonlight outlined the shiny black hair
“Let's leave tonight Gege”