Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

How nice it would be to stay in the silent bliss of eternal oblivion. No pain. No cold. No sorrow. No loneliness. Nothing. Instead every living thing has to wake at some point in time. The rushing of the water and the chilly, dreary inside of the cave that Xie Lian found behind a waterfall was beginning to bother the fallen prince. He had awaken a few minutes ago and tried to fall back asleep but to no avail. With a low growl he sat up in the enclosed space and sighed. It was barely big enough for him to move around in without getting sprayed by the water while he rested. How did things turn out so twisted?

A month ago when he was about to unleash the army of resentment Wu Ming took the fall in order to keep Xie Lian from suffering the same fate. Only for the prince to end up where he is now; alone in the dark. His ghost soldier fell… only to rise. Heaven deemed Wu Ming a martial god while Xie Lian stayed on the ground. How did this happen? Why? Was he not to be allowed back into heaven because of the human face disease? But this soldier that has been loyal to him till the end can go? Why?! The heavens betrayal that pierced him felt sharper than the black sword that Bai Wuxiang gave the villagers to use on him which brought tears to his eyes. How is it despite all he’s been through his heart can still break? Suddenly ice fills his veins with fear and dread: will he ever return? Did he train himself tirelessly for nothing? Why?!?! As Xie Lian knelt in the middle of the street the heavy clouds started to let rain fall; a sprinkle at first until it got heavier and heavier as if heaven itself was crying for him. Suddenly a crazed laugh burst from his cracked lips as what remained of his sorrow and dread turned into rage. WHY?!?!?! Was his last thought as the last remnants of his love turned into hate.

After that Xie Lian disappeared from that place; enraged and filled with enmity towards the heavens. However even now he knows Jun Wun is keeping an eye on him from above. How to get out of his sights? Only then when that display took place before his very eyes did the fallen prince accept his fate. He was never going to be able to go back. In his despair the heart wrenching wail that came from his lungs cracked his voice as the roar of the waterfall could barely drown him out. Then again there wasn’t a soul for miles to hear him. Thinking this he really lets his emotions go and rattles the cave with his cry. It got to the point where he was coughing blood from overusing his vocals and could no longer even speak.

It was then that he heard a whisper. A female voice; gentle and alluring. Listening he made out the words she softly told him. That there is a way to remain hidden and to even get his revenge on heaven for forsaking him. Numb and alone in the world he took the pale, soft, slender hand with fingernails painted onyx black that reached out to him from the shadows. He couldn’t see anything beyond it so it must be a portal. No matter. As long as he gets his satisfaction nothing else matters. Without a second thought he crawled inside the welcoming darkness.

Finally he arrived at his destination a few months later. With the resentful energy he has already gathered within him Xie Lian was able to find Tong Lu. The faint heavenly aura he had even as an undying mortal is now completely gone. Well. At least on the outside. Truthfully even now he is reluctant to let it go so easily since he spent so much of his youth cultivating. Thankfully his new friend helped him bury it deep inside so no one will be able to tell what he was previously. Now only resentful energy can be felt as he wears black robes over a red inner robe and a mask that covers the top half of his face in the shape of a white dragon while his hair is in a ponytail.

Walking up the path he easily merged with the other thousands of ghosts that have also gathered to become the next supreme. From what he was told becoming the one on top will help him gain power; enough to beat Jun Wu. Now more than ever he wants to kill the bastard since he has been told the truth about what the man really is. Heh. Though technically he’s not actually a man. Who would’ve thought the ruler of heaven is a two thousand year old half ghost? How he’s able to stay in heaven despite killing everyone to rewrite history is a puzzle. Then again heaven does have more than one murderer so.. suppose it doesn’t matter anymore that it is… tainted. But HE won’t be staying there forever.

It barely took any time for the mountains he was warned about to start moving; confusing ghosts so they don’t become the next supreme. However he knew how to handle them and even became fervent in learning how to speak with them. Naturally he had help from his new friend though it wasn’t easy. Especially the price she asked for when he wanted her to teach him. At first he was clueless considering he had no money. However she wanted something.. quite different than what he thought. Though extremely embarrassing and uncomfortable he accepted the deal.

After years of being trapped there he took her advice and waited for the weaker ones to thin out. It indeed took a long time for the strong ones to be made. But in order for him to not weaken he had to kill the ones who were able to turn into Menace and Savage then eat them to retain his resentment while growing it at the same time. Though in a much more gruesome way as a warning to others to not mess with him; like making a heart stew for instance. While the stronger ones ignored him and the weaker ones steered clear he kept in mind where the moderately strong ones are, hunting them so he can eat when his body needs it.

How interesting for him to go from eating human food to consuming evil. Before he would have to spend hour’s busking to make enough for even a single mantou. Now- after meeting her-he hasn’t know hunger for months after switching his diet. At first it did take awhile for him to get used to it; he is after all still a mortal trapped in an ageless body so his stomach rebelled at first until gradually he was able to handle it effortlessly. Again with the females help who provided the means as well as patience in order to grant his wish for power and revenge. Thankfully his shackles prevents him from using his godly spiritual power, but not the ghostly one he has now obtained through months of practice.

Finally the time came for the top contenders to fight for the right to be named Supreme. It took awhile but Xie Lian- or Hua Xie since he now prefers his alias- was able to barely defeat them and be named “King”. Rightfully so. He is the heir of one so he deserves some kind of crown. Being the last one standing on this dreadful land that is covered in old ash from centuries ago, the cursed land releases him back into the world as its new Supreme. It’s surprising how much he was able to learn here, in forms of combat anyways. The murals he found already tell him the story she spoke of to help him finalize his decision. One he knows very well could end in his demise, then again.. what does he have to live for when he already lost everything. Now it’s time for him to learn even more and continue with his plan for revenge.

Eight hundred years have passed since the plan has been made to dethrone the crown prince of Wuyong. In order to pass the time he wondered about quite a bit. Making sure not to stay in one place too long knowing that the emperor is looking for him since he went off the map around eight hundred years ago. Though he did establish a domain of his own; it’s more a city since he didn’t like being completely reclusive unlike Black Water. In his city it is full of flowers of all kinds, shapes and colors as well as a neutral ground for every sorts of demons, monsters, ghouls and ghosts therefore there are no fights or dispersing. Well there are brawls but nothing serious else they would be reprimanded by Hua Xie or his ghost servant the Blood Moon officer: Yin Yu. Even though he’s more the right hand ghost but Hua Xie hasn’t accepted another by his side since Wu Ming.

On his way back to his city he ate a ghost that was terrorizing a nearby village. Even out of Tong Lu he continues to devour other ghosts to maintain his resentment energy and grow his power even more so it can be equal with his chained heavenly power. That way neither got out of control and continued to balance each other out. Then again a certain quartz ring on his right hand helps. Though for certain reasons it is invisible so no one knows about nor can they see it unless he allows it which is no one. A congratulatory gift from his friend after becoming the supreme; to help control the sudden surge of power or he would’ve lost his sanity and gone on a blind rampage across the land. Honestly he once did almost loose himself to it if it wasn’t for her appearance in the nick of time with his gift in hand.

Once in the city covered in blood all the ghosts made way for him and welcomed him back though it was obvious they did it more out of fear than respect. However there are a few who did respect him tremendously and even happily called out to him; towards those he waved a hello while walking past. There are a rare few he will acknowledge because he saved them once and brought them here to keep them safe. Some a few times too many whether it be inside or outside the city. Not seeing that among the crowd is a handsome young man in red at one of the flower stalls; watching him with surprise, awe, relief and adoration.

Back in his small castle- not enough maintenance to have a big one and besides he doesn’t need it to be- Hua Xie changed his bloodied robes out for fresh ones as well as cleaned himself up. Unlike in Tong Lu where he wore black and red to get accustomed to the shadows he has worn a stormy grey for his outer robes and stuck with his red inner robe ever since he got out. For some reason he can’t seem to part with that color. Sewn into the fabric are black branches with blossoms- just like the ones he used to receive though instead of white they’re blood red- and to complete his attire are grey shoes to match. He’s never had much need for jewelry but he does use a smooth dark wooden hair pin that is the shape of a miniature cherry blossom branch to keep his ponytail together, black pearl earrings, a flower woven necklace that one of his waving ghosts made for him- placed over the bandage around his neck which no one asks about anymore after the first person questioned it and he ate him in a rage- along with an intricately woven crown made of crystal blossoms that refracts the light off of it.

Newly dressed Hua Xie walks to his balcony that looks out over the city. Admiring the falling petals that are thrown about to celebrate his return home after a year of absence. Yin Yu appeared by his side but Hua Xie already knew he would come to deliver a report of anything important that has transpired in the city during his absence. Which thankfully isn’t a lot since any one who’s here in his domain knows better than to cause trouble so the peace that has been kept for centuries is actually quite astonishing considering his former kingdoms peace only lasted three years. Hmmm. Speaking of it’s almost time for the next part of his plan to unfold. When he decided to do this he also hardened his resolve to not visit his parents resting place until he completes his new life’s mission. .. In a manner of speaking.

Below watching from the shadows is none other than Hua Cheng. This time keeping his beloved in his sight. The one he believes to be the one true God in the heavens. But how to get closer to him when he is a calamity now? Despite everyone knowing of the kings existence the new Supreme surprisingly kept a low profile so he never caused trouble in the heavens; making sure to stay under their radar so they won’t keep too close an eye on him. Plus no one can see his face when he is always wearing that white jade dragon mask. But why is he being so secretive? What is he planning? If only there was a way for Dianxia to trust him so he could help him accomplish and achieve whatever his God wants.

Before long the meeting between the two are over and Hua Cheng can finally have a chance to be with his beloved alone. But maybe not like this or he’ll have suspicions on why a martial god willingly approaches him. Thankfully he always has a good disguise in place for when he travels. Being a martial god he has good reason to spend more time among the mortals than with those pompous, useless trash. Secretly searching for his beloved among these small lives and hoping to find a whisper of him through their prayers; Honestly that’s the only reason he listens to them. Mostly. A small part is to honor his Gods love for the people and how he wanted to protect them; wishing to respect that even though they don’t deserve it in his eye.

Chapter Text

Hua Xie made his way down to his flower city of ghosts after the brief meeting. The candles that lit his small castle are enough to see but still looks eerily dim. Shadows danced across the ceiling, walls and floors as the little flames flicker when he passes before stilling again. One always knows when he is near by the way the candlelights around him trembles either in fear or anticipation one cannot tell.

But another way is when they reflect off of his crystal flower crown, sending out fragments of all colors in the immediate vicinity; He likes the way it sparkles. It reminds him of his mission, the past and his shadow friend who has been helping him all this time. Albeit through means of give and take that he does not like at times depending what she asks of him. Honestly he swears she’s going to be the death of him from how much she likes to embarrass him. Swiftly sending those thoughts scattering in the darkness of his mind Hua Xie focuses on the ghosts that come into view a few meters before his miniature palace.

At first this land was bare and hard. But when he arrived he used what little heavenly power he was able to bottle to make the grass grow and clear the lingering resentment. Somehow he came across a mountain that had some spiritual power so he bottled it for future use, though he didn’t think he would use it for this. While doing so a memory tried to come forward but he didn’t have time to dwell on the past so he waved it away to focus. After doing so he later saw there were ghosts a few li away who felt bitter from the betrayal in their mortal life and lingered from unresolved feelings, some from heartbreak while others naturally were hate. Taking pity he took them under his wing- since he knew these feelings all too well- and saved them when stronger ghosts came to bully them. He left them at the newly purified land that was an abandoned village at the time.

Every soul he brought back broaden the land until it became a place for all. Now when he comes back to the city those who waved excitedly to him are the very ones he saved. Not all of them are from around here. Some he brought back from his travels when they were too weak to survive on their own or ghost fires which he has a soft spot for. As thanks they had built this place from the ground up for him- they had more than enough time to do so- and before long weak ghosts sought shelter here when they had nowhere to go as well as seek his protection from taoists or stronger ghosts since no dispersing is allowed here.

Honestly it’s the taoist’s who gave him his calamity name: Flower Dragon Devouring Ghosts. Until then he was known as Hua Xie but when he only meant to scare them away in his dragon form a menace type ghost tried to take advantage of their focus being on him and almost kill the small group but thanks to his lightning fast reflexes he ate the coward in front of the taoist’s in the middle of the bastards lunge. He didn’t think they would give him a name and spread it enough that even the heavens heard it. But for some odd reason it doesn’t bother him so he kept the title and has even learned to respond to it; though it took some time getting used to it.

When the odd incident reached the heavens and among the murmuring Hua Cheng heard the tale of a ghost eating other ghosts he thought it hilarious and dumb. Until the title the taoist’s made was spoken which then made him stop in his tracks; Amusement completely gone since not just anyone has the word “flower” in their name, but a “dragon”? While it confused him he does remember that dragons often depicts royalty and wondered if it was his God that was bestowed such a name. A rather unfortunate one; unless… well for now he’ll deal with the main issue. Good thing he has experience in collecting information.

Unfortunately Jun Wu made him go on multiple missions at that time and he could not find out anything useful. Even when he tried to discreetly get “sidetracked” in order to find clues on his beloved’s whereabouts it all lead to a dead end. Why does it feel like that trash is giving him extra work on purpose? Then again he has been pretending to have amnesia since the throne squatter questions him about his past from time to time. Most likely testing where his loyalties lie. More and more his frustration showed by his short temper and sharp tongue but he made sure to look composed in front of Jun Wu or all his efforts would go to waste.

For some stupid reason he’s the only one who can sense how dangerous the emperor actually is. Must be an instinct from all the shit he went through as a kid because all these two faced, cocksuckers trusts this bastard completely which makes them either ridiculously blind or fucking retarded. He had to bide his time and remain patient or he’ll loose his mind again which would waste even more time than he believes necessary. His patience is limited towards everyone, but for his God he will wait forever.

At last centuries later he has found him when he was able to sneak into Flower City. It really is a city of flowers considering how vines crawl on the buildings to bloom flowers of all kinds of shapes, colors and sizes; some he’s never seen before. There are even stalls- though few- who sell flowers woven into jewelry, made into bookmarks, used to throw before their kings feet while he walks past as an offering or even to make sweets with. It was both endearing and breathtaking.

What really brought it to life is how they started throwing petals upon his return. … Covered in blood. Hua Cheng has to admit that it shocked him at first to see his God in such a way. It swiftly turned to rage when he thought that it was his beloved who got hurt. However it soon faded when a handful of courageous- or idiotic- ghosts called out to him, asking who he ate this time. It was then that it truly struck Hua Cheng the title that was given to his beloved; Xie Lian really does eat ghosts. What he didn’t expect was the dragon mask carved from pure white jade nestled neatly on his porcelain skin. It looked beautiful on him. On anyone else it would be cocky and assuming but upon Dianxias face it truly looked like it was made for him. Unbeknownst to everyone that it actually was made for the calamity by his friend to help keep him hidden from Jun Wu’s eyes and ears.

While walking down the dirt roads that has small sprouts of random flowers on the side Hua Xie was constantly greeted by ghosts left and right. Most called him “Ghost King” out of fear but the ones who respect more than fear the calamity called him “Your Majesty” or “Flower Dragon”- it amuses him how bold they are to address him like that honestly but most likely because he lets them- while jogging up towards his walking figure and staying just behind his body but still near enough to be heard as they started talking to him. Young ones mostly, but there are a few teenagers too. The oldest children who have been here for a couple of centuries now and still only reach just past his knees hold his hands on either side to walk beside him.

They were young souls that died too early and was filled with anger, loneliness and sorrow; Feelings he can relate to quite closely. But unlike him they do not have a good reason to linger which makes them too lost to move on so he has decided to let them stay until they are ready to go back into the reincarnation cycle. Despite being cold hearted Hua Xie couldn’t help but carry them here when he saw them or they would walk beside him, holding his hands as he guided them to their new home.

Just like how they’re doing now. Centuries- decades for a few- later they still remain here and hold his hands when he briefly makes personal patrols in his city as a reminder to all who see him that he is still vigil on keeping the peace. … As best as it can be kept anyways. Checking up on everything to make sure nothing is wrong since he was never really one to sit idly by. Because of the favoritism he shows the children the other ghosts are careful on how they treat them. This the young ones quickly picked up on and would sometimes take advantage of it; But only in small measures since even they dare not anger him.

Hua Cheng watches this with reverence and maybe a little lovestruck, if the sudden tightening of his chest and throat is any indication. Even now his God shows compassion even if it’s only a little. Towards the edge of the city Hua Cheng notices how Xie Lian sends the kids away before continuing on his own. From the scared looks on their faces it appears this city is just like all the others; The edge must be where the slums are. Except instead of people fighting for food or shelter this is where the grossest and cruelest of ghosts reside.

A place definitely not meant for children. It didn’t falter his footsteps as he continued to follow his beloved to the darkest part of Flower City. Here there are ghosts who have the most record of killing mortals. They have their own well known titles but from what he remembers these ghosts one day disappeared from the world. Did they come here for refuge? … Or is there another reason why they’re here?

Soon enough Hua Cheng gets his answer. Upon slinking through the shadows trying to be close but not enough to be sensed he faintly hears their conversation. Though it surprises him that his guess was right and that his Gods voice sounds.. a little different. Raspier like if he just woke up in the morning and it never got cleared away. Hua Cheng quickly noticed that he also doesn’t bother to clear his throat nor do the ghosts seem surprised or bothered by it.

Has his voice been like that all this time? This is the first time he’s heard his beloved voice in such a way and apparently his body likes what it hears from its very obvious joy that he annoyingly pushes down; both physically and mentally. Then again he can’t blame it since he’s committing it to memory for him to dream about later but now is so not the time for him to react this way.

“I take it nothing major has happened? Not that I expect you to lie to my officer.”

“Of course not Ghost King. Only mild fights every now and then. If you can even call them that. The minions he sends are so weak it’s a wonder on why he keeps them by his side.”

That statement draws an amused chuckle from the Calamity; However it sounds so cold they’re surprised snow doesn’t puff out from his cool, pale pink lips. Though literally no one particularly likes or cares about Qi Rong, everyone in the city has noticed how cold the air around the Ghost King grows when the name is mentioned. Do the two of them have some sort of personal feud going on? Why?

However no one dares to ask. Not even the children despite their curiosity burning in their minds. Hua Cheng also could hear the tone Xie Lians chuckle took and became worried; He’s never heard him laugh like that before. These past eight hundred years has indeed changed his God. But what happened? And when? If only he could ask his beloved but knows that Xie Lian would never tell. Not right away anyways. For now Hua Cheng needs to get close to him to get answers to his desperate questions.

“Indeed. I heard there was more than the usual this time. What else came to my borders?”

“The only other ones who dares to risk your ire are the taoist’s.”

“I see. Any casualties?”

“.. None on their side but we did loose three on our end.”

“Is that so? Did you follow procedure?”

“Yes my lord. We planted three flowers for them.”

“Good. Anything else to report?”

“No Ghost King. Aside from the scuffles with the little green bastards and three of the guards being dispersed that is all.”

“Nicely done. Continue watching the perimeter. Remember: Hurt not kill. And you will get your reward.”

The group of savage ghosts immediately bows and leaves to do what they are told. Their little conversation made a few revelations come to light for Hua Cheng. One: the minions they spoke of belong to Night Touring Green Lantern, that eyesore. One of these days Hua Cheng is going to personally disperse the bastard. Two: Xie Lian appears to know exactly who Qi Rong is. If his reaction is any indication unless that useless trash did something to his highness again which will considerably shorten his life. Three: from what he can decipher they indeed disappeared because his beloved ghostnapped them and forced them into service. … Which does not make him burn with annoyed jealousy. Not one bit. Four: while these worthless trash are strong everyone else inside the city are weak. So they are being used as guard dogs to protect the city and the inhabitants. Hua Cheng is once again in awe by his God and how he is running his city. Instead of pushing the poor to the edge it is instead where the dogs of the city reside to protect- though forcefully- the perimeter.

When Hua Xie is alone again he quietly speaks without moving in a neutral tone. For awhile now he has felt a presence nearby, following him through the city. However he had more pressing issues to attend to than give a stalker the time of day. Or night in this case. It’s always night in Flower City and yet the flowers continue to grow and thrive. He has been watering the earth in the city with more spiritual energy that he comes across which has thankfully kept them alive as well as giving them strength to flourish.

Unfortunately that specific secret he had hoped to keep for a while longer until it was accidentally discovered a couple hundred years ago when Yin Yu came to service him (don’t actually know when YY fell so sorry if the timeline is wrong) and found him nourishing the soil. Naturally the bland face fallen god kept his mouth shut knowing he wouldn’t last another second if he dared to say anything. Besides he carefully explained that he’s a banished god too so it doesn’t matter to him nor is it any of his business; smart of him to say so before walking away. It was a new feeling to be thankful for someone’s self preservation.

Startled but not completely taken by surprise Hua Cheng came out of the shadows wearing a fox mask and bows deeply to show his respect. Even he could feel the aura of his God from this far away; the cold power of his Calamity can be felt even a few buildings down the abandoned street. How befitting for his one and only God. It’s almost like he is a child again, being held by the Prince of Xianle. However instead of light and a smile this feels more like darkness as his beloved frowns, though whether it’s from displeasure or confusion he can’t tell.

“Why have you been following me? What do you want?”

“Nothing Your Majesty. This lowly one only wishes to serve and grant you all of what you desire.”

“… Come closer.”

Hesitantly Hua Cheng did as he was told and approached his God; Heart pounding from nerves and yet he is also excited to have this chance. Despite his inner turmoil he remains composed and pliant for his beloved, even if Xie Lian is a Calamity now he doesn’t care. He will follow his God to hell if that’s what it takes to remain by his side. To take the fire in his place and burn in order to protect him. If he wants someone dead he will kill them. If he needs information from someone he will torture them. If he wants to burn a city to the ground he will send it alight. Whatever his God wants he will do.

What he didn’t expect is hearing Xie Lian approach and grab his chin to have their eyes meet through their masks. Hua Cheng took on the form of a youngster to be more approachable- which appears to be working- and also to have both of his eyes so no one asks about his eyepatch; A delightful tingle went down his spine as amber meets obsidian. Has his heart ever pound so vigorously before? Thank fuck he had enough of a brain to alter his form. Who knows what Xie Lian would’ve done if Hua Cheng showed up with his eyepatch.

When his beloved next spoke he was startled- though he hid it well- that his Gods voice sounded off up close, raspier in more of a broken way than if he were to just rise from bed. Like he screamed until his vocal cords gave out. From afar it sounded softer but now before him Hua Cheng can hear him more clearly; and he doesn’t like it. Why does he sound this way? What happen?! Taking a mental deep breath Hua Cheng uses his centuries of practice to appear calm and subdue his raging emotions.

“What is your name?”

“You may call this one San Lang.”

For a minute they stayed that way in silence. Hua Xie observing him while he remains still like a warm living statue, one that is barely breathing. Suddenly he drops his hand as a white silk ribbon slithers out, he holds it up before his masked face and pets it lovingly so it doesn’t attack. Ruoye has always been a curious creation- though wholly unintended-; more like a mother cat than a demonic silk band. Fiercely protective of Hua Xie ever since it was born of his blood and parents death. It took a long time to not despise the thing but eventually he came around to forgiving and relying on it.

Continuing to do so while walking away from the red clad male to put some distance between them and to go back to the inner city. The quiet here is unnerving with this youngster being so… forthright, charismatic and fearless before him. Looking at him in a way no one else in all his eight hundred years has. There’s no trace of resentment, malice or ill intentions making it a bit difficult to be a proper Calamity with him.

Not wanting to think about it Hua Xie instead goes to the various businesses that has opened up throughout the centuries to make sure all is well. Thanks to the peace he has spent centuries providing, the ghosts have been making profit and without a lot of trouble. Perhaps a little conflict here and there but that’s to be expected. At each of the flower stalls the women would try to offer him a flower but he coldly declined; reminding him too much of a certain masked individual who last offered him a flower.

Even now the memory still…. When they reached the last flower stall the child there came around to offer Hua Xie a necklace woven with yellow flowers. The one he is currently wearing has already withered; turning brown and breaking. Already used to this routine he crouches before carefully took the old one off and put the new one on. Compared to the last one that was purple the colors this time almost has a resemblance to his eyes.

Watching this Hua Cheng couldn’t help but be jealous that his beloved accepts gifts from others. But considering the only gifts he receives are from children he’ll let it slide. Especially when his God is treating the gift so well; Despite it already being dead Xie Lian gingerly took the withered flowers off instead of just simply ripping it. And for a moment Hua Cheng saw how a thin layer of dark energy seeped off of his beloved like a black inner robe before swiftly being reined in when he put the new, freshly made flower woven necklace on. Despite being a Calamity and a ghost cannibal his God is still careful and mindful of life that he wouldn’t even taint a flower with his resentment.

Although it does make Hua Cheng curious on why his Calamity is so generous with the children. Not that Xie Lian was never good with kids- he personally knows that- but he could also tell that there is something more going on than simple kindness. Did his God save them like the time he was saved after falling off the wall back then? It wouldn’t surprise him if Xie Lian did; That’s just who his beloved is.

Even when his God played the role of White No Face his “Calamity” still made sure to steer clear of children. No doubt to keep them from harm if anything happened at that moment in time when he wasn’t always in full control of himself; even though he planned on releasing the curse soon. Or so Wu Ming thought. He never would’ve expected to watch Dianxia plunge the sword in himself with his own hands despite what he went through in the temple and silently offer to give people a second chance.

After Wu Ming was nearly dispersed from the resentment of hundreds of fallen soldiers all Hua Cheng can remember is a bright light then nothing. In that last moment he was relieved thinking his God had ascended once more. Not knowing until later on after recovering and gaining consciousness from his induced coma- which no one can explain how or why that happened- that he was devastatingly wrong. Unfortunately by then he was already in the heavens for a year so even if he descended he would become a worthless mortal. Less useful than what he is now.

So he cultivated, gained knowledge, power, allies and scattered a part of himself in the form of silver butterflies. Desperately searching for any whisper or shadow of his beloved whom has been forsaken by heaven. Hua Cheng didn’t think it would take centuries for him to find his God again. While relieved that Xie Lian is alive he is not sure how to feel about him becoming an actual Calamity. But that doesn’t matter right now. For now he wants to know what his beloved is planning. While they were checking up on the stalls that sold various things like clothing, jewelry, satchels, coin purses, lanterns, weapons and food he could see him thinking about something else other than any potential troublemakers.

After receiving his new flower necklace Hua Xie stood back up and started walking down the road again. Now that he’s back the children will be bringing him gifts again until his next departure. They have been like that since he brought them to this abandoned village, that has now been turned into a small city. While there are many ghosts not all of them like to stay here and be under his domain.

The ones who are here are either too weak to defend themselves, are here for fun, to relax or has actually made a living here- albeit a dead one- so they don’t want to leave. While the children once again take on the job of holding each of his hands he continues to check up on all the places that have business. There’s even a liquor stall, tavern, a brothel, an inn and even a gambling den. Though aside from the handful of inns he doesn’t go into any of the other ones since he doesn’t have any interest in them nor the luck for the last one.

While the children hopped alongside him they chattered about their time here and any gossip that has been going around. Since they travel around the city they know a lot of what happens behind the scenes so they are his unofficial eyes and ears while he’s gone. Yin Yu deals with things at the forefront because it’s the easiest considering that’s when the ghosts will most likely listen to him. However anything that happens in the shadows often ignore him so that’s when Hua Xie steps in.

A tugging from his hand brings him out of his thoughts as a little girl with violet eyes and black hair look up at him, waiting for his full attention. Was his mind wandering again? That’s been happening a lot these days as the time nears. Looks like she is done with her happy chatter and has moved on to business then.

“What is it MeiMei?”

“Flower Dragon, have you heard of Hua Cheng?”

“Hua Cheng? Hmmmmm. … The only thing I’ve heard is how skillful he is with his scimitar, that he’s helpful towards his followers, is missing an eye and how he spends more time down here than he does up there. Why do you ask little one?”

“I heard he was nearby and was thinking he might come here to start trouble. Please be careful gege. It would be terrible if anything were to happen to you.”

““Come here”? Haha what nonsense. He has no reason to come here child, rest easy. I highly doubt a martial god like him will want anything to do with this place. Even as powerful as he is Hua Cheng has not fought with any of the calamities so he is probably dealing with a deadly ghost causing problems. … Well aside from the green ghost, but he doesn’t count. Considering we have not done anything to warrant suspicion from heaven Hua Cheng will leave us alone.”

He would hope so since he’s been wearing the invisible ring- it helps him have better control over the two opposing powers so they remain perfectly balanced- and his dragon mask- which has a spell to change his voice so everyone hears something different than his real one- for the past eight hundred years. Both gifts from his friend, though the mask is less of a gift since he had to pay an embarrassing price for it. He quickly shoves that memory into a box to lock and throw into the darkness of his unconscious mind. Right now after finishing his checkups on his Flower City Hua Xie wants to be alone.

The children wouldn’t mind- they’re used to it- but the youngster is still following closely behind him as if he’s made himself into Hua Xies personal guard. How obnoxious. Unlike now when his steps are followed by children this young man reminds him of the past when soldiers followed him to their deaths. And friends long gone. A past he despises being reminded of; It was a time when he was naive, full of life and believed he could do anything.

But fate had other plans for him as it dragged him through the mud and blood. Moulding him into the Calamity he is today. While he thinks of himself as a cold blooded killer- that’s what the Taoist who who gave him his name said to him before he left them there lying in the dirt- the children and a few others think of him as a noble, kind king. Even knowing he is a ghost cannibal and often comes back covered in blood they still think of him as such. For centuries he has tried to persuade them from those irritating thoughts but they remain firm in their beliefs no matter what he said- sometimes even threatened them- so he gave up and let them be.

On the way to his small castle the little ones one by one left his side knowing he wants rest. However more than halfway there the one called San Lang is still trailing after him. Isn’t there something he can do to get rid of him? Glancing back Hua Xie by pure chance saw the red pup look at a goods stall that were selling cakes with a blossom stamped on top for a moment before looking away. Seeing this Hua Xie thought of a devious way to send this youngster running for the hills.

“Young man. You must be famished. Please come in and have a hot meal. The village below gave me some food for exterminating a lowlife that was bothering them. No one eats my food so I would appreciate it if you would help me eat it.”

This startled San Lang as he quickly looked at Hua Xie with wide eyes. Has no one ever cooked for him before? Surely that’s not true; everyone has a mother after all. Without a second thought the rascal actually bows with a smile and his palm over his heart. A sincere gesture of loyalty and obedience that Hua Xie has mixed feelings about. Before he would hate when anyone did it, but for some reason with this one… he feels mixed up by it.

“I wouldn’t want to impose on you Your Majesty but if that is your desire than this one will be honored to have your cooking.”

“Good. I hope you don’t mind waiting while I make everything then. It shouldn’t take too long though. It’s a simple meal.”

“Anything you make will be more than worth the wait. And it wouldn’t be simple either. At least not to me.”

Hua Xie wasn’t sure how to respond to that so he kept quiet and continued on to his home. Although… this will be the first time he has actually invited someone inside without anyone asking to come in. Not wanting to think further about it he goes up the black steps that has thin rivers of jade in it- looking a lot like marble but made with different materials- and enters his miniature palace. The inside is just like the steps; black marble with swirls of jade on every surface. Dangling from the ceiling is a small group of nine lanterns with dragons flying through flower petals painted on them, already they are lit beforehand so no one stumbles about in the dark. When they enter both males and females bow before their King and greets him.

“Welcome home Your Majesty.”

Instead of replying Hua Xie walks on by, ignoring them as he makes his way to the kitchen; It’s empty of ghosts so he goes straight to work with their upcoming meal. He tries his best to ignore the stare coming from San Lang as he bustles about. No doubt looking quite out of place considering he is a cold hearted, vicious Calamity who devours other ghosts. Throughout the centuries he’s gained more experience with cooking since there were times when there wasn’t a ghost for him to eat; he would have to turn to normal food. At least now he doesn’t burn it anymore or use too much spices.

Half an hour later there is a plate of fish and two bowls, one contains rice while the other has vegetables. Despite the fish looking well made with it being cooked to a nice golden brown there is a unique scent coming from it that can’t quite be described. This however did not faze San Lang who didn’t hesitate to grab a pair of chopsticks and dug in. A few minutes later the fish, rice and vegetables were gone from the table.

“Thank you for the hot meal Your Majesty. It was delicious. I will forever be grateful to have such an opportunity to be fed by your cooking.”

“Oh? I am glad you enjoyed my cooking. It was called: Flying Phoenix Glides with Dancing Dragon. Perhaps next time I will make something with chicken.”

“It would be an honor to eat that as well. In fact I would very much like anything Your Majesty decided to cook next. I sincerely hope you will let me try it when that time comes.”

Once again Hua Xie wasn’t sure how to respond to such sincere words; a recurrence that continues to baffle him. Especially when the youngsters eyes looks at him fondly with warmth and something else that he’s not sure of. With a scoff Hua Xie turns and starts washing the dishes while trying to get his thoughts in order. Though even he can feel his ears burn; no doubt annoyingly pink. However before he could do much pale, strong, slender hands with rolled up red sleeves gently stops him from moving by placing his hand over his own. The sudden intimate gesture has him frozen while San Lang softly speaks next to his still pink ear.

“Please allow me to clean all this up for you. After all you took the energy and time to cook for me gege. It makes sense for you to rest and eat while I do the cleaning.”

The hand on top of his warmed his cold skin and the breathe he could feel on his sensitive ear sent tingles down his spine. Forcing himself to be calm he simply slipped his hand out from under San Langs and sat down to have his own meal while the damn kid started washing the dishes. The nerve of this boy; Touching him in such a way. With difficulty Hua Xie forced the blush to not appear however his cheeks did turn a pretty light shade of pink.

Thankfully the youngster was too busy to notice; or so he thought. He didn’t see the glance San Lang gave him before quickly turning back to the task at hand to avoid detection and conflict. A wise choice. Taking deep breathes Hua Xie calmly ate his food while moving his thoughts to the next part of his plan. Hmmmmmm. Next month should be the day that it happens. Plenty of time to catch up on paperwork and then some since he’ll be gone awhile again. But how to get this boy off his trail long enough for him to disappear? This youngster- who is anything but- is sticking rather close to him. Why? Does he need to sneak out of his bedroom window or something?

… Wait.. why does he need to do that? Why is he trying so hard to sneak off?! What is he a teenager meeting a secret lover! Forget it!! He’ll just turn into a dragon or a pile of petals and fly off! He can even make a short distancing array. ..Why didn’t he think of that first?! If San Lang wasn’t here Hua Xie would have dropped his head on the table from the sheer stupidity his mind just went through.

Meanwhile Hua Cheng can’t get that faint blush out of his mind. Seeing that reminds him of a time long, long ago when he was a soldier and Xie Lian a prince. Of a dark cave and disgusting wenches trying to persuade him into breaking the barrier his beloved trusted him to maintain. Granted it wasn’t a full on dark flush that reached his whole ears and chest like that time but it still made the memory rise; unbidden and yet it has intoxicated his mind for the longest time. The amount of times he’s dreamed of that night is countless.

But this isn’t the time to remember such things while said man is sitting right behind him so Hua Cheng ruthlessly shoves the memory aside so he can focus on the present. It has taken him centuries to find his beloved again and he’ll be damned if he wanders into his mind rather than be here with him. By the time he finished washing the dishes he turned around to see if Dianxia had finished his meal.

Indeed he was done and had started to slowly break the fishes bones one by one by using his chopsticks to grind down on them with that far away look on his face again; deep in thought. The sight worried Hua Cheng but he didn’t say a word. Not wanting to raise his ire and be thrown out when his Calamity was in the middle of calculating his next step. Hua Cheng wants to be there for him in whatever way he can. That way he won’t be alone again.

The time is near. From what his friend told him it should be soon; Then the climax of this long play can start. It won’t take long to end it when all the missions have already been decided for him by none other than heavens ruler Jun Wu himself. That fake emperor will soon meet his demise. Even if in the end it will cost him his life. By now his acting should be flawless. He didn’t spend centuries in the human world- with breaks here and there- for nothing! His friend helped him take on multiple roles throughout the centuries. Pretending to be a variety of people in order to perfect his mask. Or poker face as she liked to call it. Soon his patience will be rewarded.

He was brought out of his planning when a movement in his peripheral caught his attention. The red pup came forward to take the bowls away which made him look down to see how he was pulverizing the leftover fish bones; Grinding them down into powder. Oops. Delicately clearing his throat he set aside his chopsticks and stood to leave. A few minutes later when he was close to his room a sudden presence- familiar now that it’s been following him around like a puppy- appeared behind him. So he’s done with the dishes and managed to catch up to him.

Out of nowhere the memory of Wu Ming came to mind. Days and nights spent with his black clad ghost following him around until he was given further orders. Sometimes he wonders what Wu Ming thought about while they slept at his burnt temples. Broken statues of him littered the ground while the establishment plaques had nothing but scratch marks from knives on them. Wishing he could go back in time, take the mask off and beg for forgiveness on how awful he treated his last believer. Since that day regret has been a living thing within him; eating him alive. Grief tries to claw it’s way out of the bottom of his shattered heart but he doesn’t have the time or energy to cry so he stuffs it back down though that doesn’t stop what’s left of his heart from aching at the memory.

Unconsciously a low growl came out which made the young man quietly gasp, most likely from the sudden spike in his irritation. Swiftly Hua Xie closes his curled lips and silences himself from making any further noises while simultaneously hiding his little canines. What is wrong with him? For centuries he’s been able to keep his emotions under control. How come all of a sudden they started coming out unbidden after this guy showed up? … Is this the “phase” his parents warned him about after he turned fourteen?

Chapter Text

With little choice- despite being a Calamity- Hua Xie had given the red dressed lad a room close to his. The youngster didn’t want to walk away and Hua Xie was most certainly not going to let him in his room. After showing his new persistent follower the room he will be sleeping in from now on the puppy followed him back to his own room as an escort before bidding him goodnight. A calamity having an escort? The others would probably die- again- from laughter if they hear of this.

What an emotionally exhausting night this turned out to be. Sighing Hua Xie rolled over from his back to his side wearing only his inner robe and pants with his hair down on his rather large bed. It’s the same size as the one he had as a prince, but never noticed the size of it until now after sleeping on hay or the ground for the past year. Funny how this comes to mind now of all times. Perhaps it’s because he won’t be able to come back here for a long time as he once again plays the role of a God. While ghosts do not need sleep he is not a complete one so his heavenly half still require it. As annoying as that is.

Naturally only Yin Yu knows of this since he too has the same requirement. But more so than Hua Xie does considering the poker faced man hasn’t spent centuries cultivating negative energy like he has to keep himself awake for days on end. Luckily for Hua Xie he doesn’t need much sleep, unlike in the beginning where he needed several hours like normal humans do. Now it’s only a handful and he’s completely energized; a requirement he had to learn in order to become Supreme. … Well. If he’s eaten. If not then a few more than usual to help stave off his hunger.

Unfortunately sleep eluded him as Hua Xie tossed and turned in his soft bed. Again and again he had to push that red pup out of his thoughts. Tormented by the sound of his easy going voice and gentle eyes; though he doesn’t know they only turn soft when the boy is looking at him. The memory of how easily the fox placed his hand on his own and how it warmed him all through his body by that simple touch is driving him mad. When he did finally fall asleep- like another curse- the memory of Wu Ming came to torment him once again. Reminding him of his failures, his rage, his pain and his sorrow. Every now and then Hua Xie wonders how Wu Ming is doing; if he made a name for himself or not. No doubt living better as a god than he did as a ghost who followed a fallen prince hated by all. If only he could see him one more time and apologize before his final fight.

Soon the nightmare of his past turned further back in time; making it even more dreadful. White No Face is holding him hostage in his own broken down temple while telling the common folk how to save themselves from the Human Face Disease. It’s times like these when he’s glad for the barrier he put in place to keep anyone from hearing any noises from him. Once again he shoots up from his bed screaming in terror, rage and agony.

Covered in cold sweat he pants heavily as he tries to desperately fill his lungs with air that doesn’t seem to be enough. After he no longer sees the horrible sight, feel those terrible things and his unfocused, tear stricken eyes clear up with a more or less settled mind Hua Xie remembers where he is, a relieved sigh leaves him while placing a hand over his damp face. When he realizes that even after becoming a Calamity and eight hundred years has passed since his life spiraled downwards he is still terrified of the white clothed bastard. The epiphany makes him bursts into fits of insane laughter.

Several minutes later when he has calmed down a tired sigh leaves him before he gets out of bed, wraps the bandage back around his neck then wipes his face with his sleeves so he can put his dragon mask back on and goes to his bath chamber with a worried Ruoye in tow. Seems it wrapped itself around his chest to help comfort him which led to it also getting damp with his sweat. Before he could do anything though a servant rounded the corner and started filling his bath with hot water. This ghost teenager has been waiting on him hand and foot since He Xuan gave him the water ghoul as payment for his help in finding a good base for his new home a few hundred years ago. He has tried to tell the boy that there is no need for him to be his personal servant but the boy only replied that every king needs one; not having a comeback for that retort he lets him be. Too busy to get in an argument or chase him off.

Ignoring the young ghost- maybe not that young but he did die young so Hua Xie will always see him as a boy- Hua Xie shrugs off his damp inner robe letting it pile on the floor along with his pants before entering the steaming water. Normally Ruoye hates getting wet- probably because of how it was made- but Hua Xie is adamant about washing it. What would be the point of him bathing if his silk reeks of sweat? Normally the servant would add a floral scented oil but Hua Xie waves it away. It is the crack of dawn so it looks like despite that terrible awakening it was just in time. Now to prepare for his upcoming battle with the shit stain currently residing upon a throne of bones in heaven. He could use the extra time to perfect his mask as well. At one point it used to be who he really was, but after his downfall he decided to discard his old self in order to reach Supreme as a cold, ruthless Ghost King. Now he only uses his old self to portray his disguises he has used through the centuries.

Despite the sun barely rising- then again not like he could get any sleep after what just happened last night- Hua Cheng could sense ghosts moving about outside the guest room that was provided to him. Grabbing the fox mask he threw on the soft sheets upon the big bed, he dons it on once again and goes out to see what was going on; he saw six female ghosts enter Dianxias room with plates full of food. Following after them he was confused at first when his God wasn’t in bed and they stood there holding his food while another one was putting fresh sheets on. Walking about he soon comes upon a scene he never thought in a thousand years he would see. A drenched, blue skinned teenager whose skin is covered in patches of small scales and a few strands of seaweed in his hair is washing his Gods hair as he sat in a tub of steaming water. It took him a moment to process this… then a few more to not tremble in fury and rip the ghoul to shreds. A boy. Is washing. His beloved. Hastily looking away he clears his throat which makes Xie Lian open his eyes and shift them to where he is standing.

“You have a lot of nerve to come in here without knocking or announcing yourself.”

“Please forgive me Your Majesty I was curious on what the sudden bustle was about and was looking for you.”

“Looking for me? Is there something you need?”

“… If you would be generous enough to grant me the honor of dining with you.”

“That’s all? Instead of waiting for me to finish my bath you stand there and ask for food?”

San Lang sputtered as a look of indignation and desperation came over his handsome features. However it looks more… like he’s mentally slapping himself rather than having any negative feelings towards Hua Xie. Interesting. And.. confusing. What has he done to warrant such things from this stranger?

“Your Majesty please forgive this lowly one! I did not mean to show such disrespect towards you!”

“… Hah. Very well then. I usually eat in bed but I can move to the dining room. Ladies.”

The ones carrying the trays bowed and shuffled out to set them on the dining room table. Done with washing his hair the water ghoul rinses the soap out, stood to get a towel and comes back to dry it. However he didn’t want San Lang to wait long so he waved his hand to which the teenager silently bows before leaving as well. He’ll never admit that for some odd reason he feels mortified for San Lang to be standing there at the entrance to his bathroom; Patiently waiting for him to finish.

Surprisingly San Lang is silent through it all which Hua Xie is grateful for; Then again the lad is normally silent unless he himself speaks to him. Rising up from the now lukewarm water Hua Xie dries himself off before putting on a fresh red inner robe along with matching pants then slides on his dark grey outer one but this time it’s a flying silver dragon surrounded by falling red petals. Barefoot he leaves his room to lead the way towards the dining room, considering the pup doesn’t know where anything is yet. … Hmmmmmm as much as he would like to question his new follower he doubts the boy would answer considering that the lad is always wearing that fox mask around him.

“Your Majesty if I may?”

“Hm?”

“Please allow this lowly one to dry your hair. It would be an honor.”

“… Fine.”

Sitting down at the table Hua Xie hands over the towel he was previously using to pat his hair down, not really caring about drying it. Without hesitation San Lang takes the soft material and gently dries his hair in sections. It was quite… calming. If he isn’t careful he could fall asleep like this which would be beyond embarrassing. Normally he would like the water ghoul to do this part but he was in a rush to get this fox out of his room.

Honestly why does this young man affect him so? The pup keeps taking him off guard and for some odd reason he is finding it difficult to deny his simple requests. Is he becoming a pushover? Can’t be. That’s impossible. A gentle hand on his shoulder brings him out of his musings to which he waves a hand to the seat next to him. At first the lad hesitated like he was about to deny a seat so close to the King but relents and takes it.

Despite there being a fresh, perfectly cooked buffet neither of them will eat much of it. While Hua Xie is saving room for later the fox says he prefers his homemade cooking compared to the cook in this small palace. Not the answer he thought he would receive when he asked why he wasn’t eating all that much. Honestly he’s surprised since despite getting better at it his homemade cooking it is still atrocious to everyone. How is it that he is still not used to this fox surprising him?

Once they were done pretending to eat the plates of food Hua Xie gracefully stood and left the small palace to the destination in mind. Or rather what Yin Yu provided through his investigations after he asked him to conduct a search of any nuisances nearby. It’s a few li away but hopefully the sudden journey will be worth it. It’ll be hard to continue his plan and keep his identity a secret if this one keeps following him about.

The village they are going to is being terrorized by a dangerous ghost. Hua Xie has faced this crazy fucker before but underestimated the bastards ability in causing insanity onto others, that unfortunately includes Hua Xie himself. With his mind already half lost Hua Xie used what sanity remained to fly away so he wouldn’t kill any of the lingering people in his unstable state. That fight has left a humiliating burn underneath his skin, now it’s time for payback.

Luckily for him- which is a surprise since he’s considered the God of Misfortune- it seems his new follower has an interesting way to get from place to place. With a set of red dice the youngster can open up a distance shortening array and be anywhere he wants in mere moments. In all his centuries he’s never heard of anyone doing such a thing before. How did this fox learn to do such a magnificent trick? Intrigued Hua Xie allowed the lad to use this power- not going to admit how amazed he actually is by it- to help shorten the trip.

Sure enough they arrive at a village who has their doors and windows locked. What remains of them anyway. There’s so few humans left the place might as well be abandoned, though they must have their reasons on why they stay. Not much time was wasted before they faintly heard the chilling laughter of a maniac- or in this case a ghost- in the distance. After their last encounter Hua Xie trained his mind so he won’t be so easily sucked into his traumatic past. Now that he’s prepared images don’t automatically spring to mind like in their last battle. However the tough part has yet to come; the closer one gets to the ghost the stronger the power has over the person listening.

Glancing over at the youngster he can see by the way his jaw has tightened how the laughter is already affecting him; Wonder how long he can last before he breaks. The reminder of how he nearly broke in the middle of their last fight makes his blood boil with humiliation and fury. While half of him felt bad that the poor boy is suffering like he did, his darker half however is relieved that someone else is with him this time to deal with this damn thing together. No matter that it meant dragging the fox down with him. At the same time it also feels odd since he’s been dispersing ghosts by himself for centuries.

Most find it weird considering he himself is a “ghost”- no one other than Yin Yu knows he is only half ghost which shocked the dull faced man when he found out but has ultimately kept his well hidden secret for nothing else other than survival- and while they wish to question him they know he would not take it kindly thus they remain silent. Good thing a lot of ghosts were there to see what happens when anyone questions his past or motives. They learned the easy way; reaping the reward for not knowing and simply watching what the hard way is like for the unfortunate soul who couldn’t contain his curiosity. True to his name he ate him.. as stew.

In the beginning his mind remained blissfully empty so the calm was welcomed. But halfway towards the ghost he could feel his memories threatening to resurface, making him clench his pale hands into fists which are thankfully hidden within his sleeves. With another glance he could see the red puppy keeping his eyes forward but now they are narrowed and burning with fury, which he mentally balked at since he wasn’t expecting that but kept his face neutral while maintaining his calm pace. As the clearing started to open up the laughter quieted down which confused the two until they saw the ghost in question sitting up upon a small boulder in the middle of an open field that is full of brown grass, wilted flowers and scattered bones. Three pairs of eyes clash and gradually electricity fills the air as the two stare the ghost down.

In all the centuries Hua Cheng spent gathering strength and knowledge not once has he ever faced an opponent like this. The war in his mind would appall anyone if they could look in and see the absolute chaos that he’s mentally fighting. However even in his own turmoil he can faintly hear his Gods bones creaking, no doubt clenching his too pale fists that are hidden within his sleeves. Considering the amount of misfortune his beloved has endured Hua Cheng is astonished that Dianxia can keep walking without hesitating in his steps or stumbling. Even with what’s going on in his mind his heart can’t help but be in awe of his God.

When they finally face the ghost he’s surprised by how ordinary the thing looks. Although he’s honestly not sure what he was expecting in the first place. If the trash were to clean up it would blend in just fine with mortals but it looks as if it doesn’t even try with how the dirty rags that hangs off of it’s wispy body drips with old blood. Then again even if the ghost could hide its yellow, pointed teeth, sharp claws and blood splattered body, there’s no way for it to hide the crazed gleam in its bloodshot eyes.

“Flower Dragon Devouring Ghosts.”

“Insanity Induced Laughing Ghost.”

“I wasn’t expecting to see you again. Ready for another round?”

Hua Xie clenches his jaw and narrows his eyes as a hiss comes out between perfect, clenched teeth. Making it obvious how outraged and annoyed he is with this ghost who in turn only smiles cruelly. Not in the least bit afraid of a Calamity but that’s due to the Savage actually being insane enough to not fear anyone or anything. A blessing in itself to be fearless but of course it comes at a great personal cost.

“Know that this time I will not fail to disperse your worthless soul.”

“Hahahahahaha! We shall see calamity. We shall see. Heeheeheeheehee.”

A low growl was made from the lack of terror this annoying asshole showed before him. He knows Hua Xie devours ghosts or disperses them yet still this thing shows no fear. Is it because he fled in the last battle? Well that’s about to change. Opening his palm a dark red sword that looks like it could be made of blood appears in his hand, practically dripping with resentful energy and bloodlust.

From behind he could hear a faint gasp from the red fox which made him falter for a second. It’s not surprising for the boy to have that reaction. Anyone who hasn’t seen him fight is always startled by the sheer amount of dark power that it holds. Mostly because Hua Xie is careful to- even now- not let it roll off his body in waves else it will wilt his flower necklace instantly. Instead he lets it flow over the ground and up, surrounding them like a bowl to make a barrier that way no one will be getting out until he puts it down, weakens or dies.

As a result the cock sucker only laughed gleefully. Amusement shining in his crazed milky yellow eyes that reminds him of pus while the whites is completely bloodshot. Pupils narrowing into slits; Closely resembling that of a snake. One even more crazy than he is. And that’s saying something. Sigh. This is going to be the nastiest thing he has ever eaten.

Expecting anger and not joy Hua Xie couldn’t help the flinch from being reminded of White No Face. The images- especially being this close- that laugh drags out of the darkest part of his memories. Being reminded of all that he has lost- which is literally everything, his home, family, friends, people, dignity, hope,…Wu Ming and even faith- made rage come in like the tide. Almost blinding him yet oddly enough it’s his necklace that barely manages to keep him grounded as his thick resentful energy starts flowing off his stiff form more thickly though still careful to not touch the necklace which the ghost found very amusing and cackles even louder.

“Still trying to be oh so courteous? Wouldn’t even harm a useless flower? Well no worries. I knew you would come and picked this perfect spot for our final battle. Either I kill you. Or you kill me. Heeheeheeheehee. Ahahahahahahaha!”

“Is that so? In that case I hope you did not have any plans after this. Because it will be you who falls here today.”

“Oh? Heehee. Quite confident are we? Haha! Well go ahead then little king. Make your move. Let’s see who will really fall. And don’t think you can run like last time.”

“… I’m going to enjoy ripping you apart.”

Hua Cheng for once in his useless life found it hard to fight off this ghost even if it is more of a mental battle than an actual one with fists and weapons. The sudden wave of resentment coming off of his beloved allowed him some clarity but it also made him very concerned. It wasn’t until then that the conversation they’ve been having finally registered in his somewhat hazy mind as he pushed the memories away with a viciousness that made him light headed for a second. This worthless trash is indeed not one to be taken lightly. Especially when Xie Lian has dealt with him before yet here he remains. What happened between them? How long ago was their last battle?

Before he can ask or even move Xie Lian took off like an arrow at the insane ghost with a ferocity that was a thing of beauty and terror. While he used his red sword that has black fog swirling around it the ghost is pushing back with double short swords that are less ominous despite the bloodstains. Probably because he hasn’t spent as much time gathering strength like his beloved apparently has. Naturally his Calamity would easily win against a Savage but due to this one’s special power Dianxia cannot fight at full strength.

Over and over they would exchange blows that would scratch the other one way or another. Most of the injuries befell the ghost but Xie Lian also received a few minor ones, mere scratches compared to what this snake took; mostly over his arms. Small splatters of blood randomly spotted the dead meadow and a few of the trees have been broken when his beloved shoved the other hard enough to send him through the trunk. Unfortunately that didn’t deter the ghost much, other than slow him down a bit.

A fight like this would normally last around an hour where the one who looses stamina first is the looser but judging how his beloved is starting to become unfocused it needs to end sooner rather than later. Not wanting to give himself away too much Hua Cheng took out a normal scimitar, forces his mind to be blank in order to block out the memories and leaps in to fight on the opposite side. Using his centuries worth of experience and instinct to work together with his one and only true God. A thrill went through him on how quickly they were able to fight together with ease, as if they fought together for years. The only problem is the bastards taunting towards them that is drawing out an irritated growl from both. No doubt trying to make them loose their rhythm.

Hua Xie is pissed to say the least. He’s having a hard time keeping his mind in the present and not be forced into the past. It doesn’t help that when San Lang jumped in to help making the fucker fight on both ends the insane bastard starts jeering at both of them. Safe to say that at least one of them is taking this asshole down. Preferably himself so he can eat him.

Finally after half an hour and with some of his sanity intact the pair brought the ghost to his knees, covered in injuries from them both. Hua Xie turns into his dragon form and opens his maw to devour the pain in his ass. The moment before the insane bastard gets eaten his gleaming eyes show a moment of clarity, allowing him to smile tiredly in relief before closing his eyes and accepting his fate. Something the old him would have hesitated to finish but the current him understood all too well that feeling of wanting to be freed from being unwillingly tied to this world. This is the only mercy he will bestow upon him.

Seeing Xie Lian suddenly turn into a dragon with a long serpentine body was something completely unexpected from how Hua Cheng imagined this ending. But it still took his breath away from the sheer magnificence of this new skin. Gorgeous is all that comes to mind as he stares at a white dragon whose scales appear as if they are made of the purest white jade. Honey eyes now glow golden with his pupils turned into snake like slits. Silky hair that now runs from between his horns all the way down to his tail has turned from chestnut brown to platinum blonde. His horns spiral up- similar to a Greater Kudu antelope- with vines wrapped around them, dotting with blossoms of brilliant red. It was a sight he will never forget.

After the fight Hua Cheng- a week later- still stuck by his Calamity’s side. Much to Xie Lians dismay. He can sense how irritated the Ghost King is plus the time when he stabbed him the day after that eye opening fight, but immediately was horrified by what he did and in a panic ran off. Thankfully it was an empty cavity and missed all his organs so nothing life threatening; Pretty shallow actually so it wasn’t even that deep. However since then his beloved has been afraid to even look his way. Much less avoided any kind of touch Hua Cheng tried to initiate; As if sensing him before the contact is even made.

Right now he cooked them dinner and despite Xie Lians foul mood his Calamity still ate. Ever since their duo fight he has noticed that his beloved did not eat much. Guess devouring that useless trash fills him up for a while. Unbeknownst to him that Xie Lian actually has not been that mentally well this entire time after devouring the crazy bastard; it affected him some though he hides it well. From time to time Dianxia will go to the edge of the city to prevent the Savage ghosts from killing Taoists or lost humans but other than that and visiting the children his God usually stays in his dimly lit mini palace.

Before Hua Cheng could tell that his beloved was annoyed that he couldn’t scare him away, but now Hua Cheng can see it turn more and more irritable as the days and nights go by without him leaving. However he can tell that Dianxia wants to do something but is unable to in his presence. Xie Lian would be more easily angered and fidget more and more throughout the month. As much as he wanted to tell his Calamity that whatever it is he needs, he will help him achieve it. … With the way Xie Lian doesn’t let him close makes it impossible to do so.

Unfortunately when Hua Xie was finally able to eat that annoying bastard it left him… out of sorts. He needed time to regain his footing. To control his emotions, memories and resentment once more; Though easier said than done. It took an entire bloody week for his mind, heart and- oddly enough- stomach to settle. It really rattled him however nearly a full month later… he is running out of time. Damnit!

The plan was going so well for the past eight hundred years, but now that -somehow- he has gained a new follower in the guise of a red clad youngster with a fox mask everything has taken.. an interesting turn. As frustrating as that is. Now with the red pup following him around EVERYWHERE he goes Hua Xie cannot find the opportunity to be properly alone so he can plan a route ahead of time to go to the place and time he needs to be in order to ascend. And the window for that is rapidly closing.

How is he suppose to continue with the second half of his plan if this youngster keeps following him everywhere? Now knowing he can’t simply disappear without a word or the guy goes a different kind of crazy and tries everything to find him again. Sigh. … Hmmmmm he might have to ask the Savage ghosts a favor to lure him away. No doubt an arrangement can be made with a few of them.

By promising to cut down their sentence on being guard dogs a few of the Savage ghosts were more than happy to scare this newcomer away. However the end result turned out to be very different from what he predicted it would be. Not only did it not scare the persistent fox but he outright laughed in their faces before beating them all down. And there were three of them too. Confused, startled and impressed Hua Xie decided to take the blunt approach. He would have liked to send more but after those three were nearly dispersed the rest decided trying to pick a fight with the kid is more trouble than it’s worth. So the Ghost King had no choice but to confront the lad instead.

One evening while the fox was making dinner- as usual, he couldn’t persuade the boy that there was no need so it’s normal now for him to receive three daily meals made by the pup- Hua Xie had spent that time gathering his courage to be straight with his new follower. Somehow… it’s easier said than done. One by one dishes were placed in front of him and even when the pup is sitting across from him he opens his mouth to speak but no words came out… so he started eating silently instead. Grudgingly liking the food that was made once again. How is it that no matter what this fox makes it always comes out good?

Finally after eating everything- usually he barely eats but this time he finished it all absent mindlessly while thinking of how to approach the youngster without worrying him- and only when the lad was washing dishes did Hua Xie blurt it out without a second thought. Though the second the words left his mouth he thinks he should have put more thought into it. These days Hua Xie feels like he’s walking on eggshells making him more short tempered than usual. Even his own small staff is being careful to not be within his sight.

“Do you have nowhere else to be or nothing better to do?”

“Does my presence bother you Your Majesty? I have come to serve only you. But if you command it of me I will leave.”

Hua Cheng has finished all his missions and wrote all the reports for those eyesores up in heaven. After finding his beloved he made sure to get everything done so he won’t be bothered for a while. However he knows his Calamity has a plan for something. One he doesn’t want him to see or know about. It kills him that his beloved doesn’t trust him but for now he’ll just have to live with it and do what he can to gain his trust.

“What- I- that is- um. Ahem. Of course not. I simply thought that there must have been something you were doing before coming here. You have been in my domain for some time. Do you not have friends or relatives to go to?”

“No Your Majesty. I have no relatives nor any friends to speak of.”

“Oh. I see.”

“Haha no need to look so down. I care not about people I’ve never met and I have not found anyone that is worth my time. Other than you of course.”

Hua Xie was startled to find that he actually did feel.. sad for San Lang. Once his initial flustered self calmed down and his mind that was momentarily scrambled righted itself. The youngster waved it off but Hua Xie knew just how lonely a life can be without having anyone to trust. Well for him it was one woman that he reluctantly relies on from time to time. Mainly about information, power and these amazing so called “trinkets” she makes. But oddly enough… this dragon would not mind calling the red fox a friend.