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Chapter Text

“First love is only a little foolishness and a lot of curiosity.” – George Bernard Shaw

Among the tall dark trees, a young child, not more then six year old, cried hysterically. His rich clothes torn and dirty, a large ugly wound on his left arm looked so red and angry on the soft skin of the child.

Suddenly there was a rustling sound, the child yelped and looked around. His vision blurred because of the big fat tears, staining on his red cheeks.

"Wh-Who is there?" The child asked, but there was no reply but he only met with silence. The child heaved in the silence, his heart beating fast. Looking at each and every place of the dark forest.

Again the rustling sound reached to the Child's ear. He yelped loudly, a boy not much older then him came into view. The boy was wearing a wolf mask, and his golden bright eyes pierced through him. He was like a shadow-no a ghost! Long black hair falling in front of the boy, like a waterfall. He took out a small sharp knife, shining under the soft light touching the blades, pointing towards the child.

He looked in horror, he can feel his entire body freezing down.

The Child screamed in fear.

"Young Master! Young Master!" Jin Xiaobao opened his eyes, and saw the looming figure of his servant, Jin Bao.

"Young Master, the sun already up, if you do not wake up now, Madam will be angry." Jin Bao said, his voice low showing his fearful expression.

Jin Xiaobao woke up, his eyes staring at the wall in daze. "I saw that dream again."

"The one with that masked boy?" Jin Bao asked.

Xiaobao nodded. Ever since his eighteenth birthday, this dream have been recurring to him everyday. Like a plague driving him crazy. That same dream, the same instances. Something that happened twelve years ago, why is he dreaming about it? He can't even remember what happened in that incident, just a vague memory of a golden-eyed boy.

Jin Xiaobao, the only child of Jin Bao¹ and Zhou-Jin XiăoMéi². The Jin Family is one of the most richest family in the entire Jiangan province. And he, the first kunze child after thirteen generation. Both the Jin parents are Zhongyong, having a kunze child is like a blessing to them. But in this society, where Qianyuan and Zhongyong dominates the society, Jin Xiaobao feels lucky to be born into a well loving family, who pampers him to no end.

"Young Master you should really dress up fast, or else-"

The door of Xiaobao's room suddenly opened, Zhao Cai, another servant of Xiaobao, came running towards his Young Master.

"Ah, Zhao Cai what happened? Why did you came like you saw a ghost?" Xiaobao asked, rubbing his eyes and stretching himself.

Zhao Cai huffed, drenched on his own cold sweat, "Young Master! You wouldn't belive what news I have got!", he said, winking his eyes and his smile spreading all over his face.

"Hmm? What is it, Zhao Cai?" Xiaobao looked at Zhao Cai suspiciously, what can it be to make the cool-headed Zhongyong running like this?

Zhao Cai cleared his voice and took out a clean white paper, "Here. The most precious thing in this world." Holding it towards Xiaobao, like a rare gem given in a tribute.

Xiaobao took it, laughing at Zhao Cai's weird behaviour. Jin Bao looked back and forth, trying to understand what is going.

Xiaobao opened the letter, and he couldn't belive his eyes! An invitation to the infamous YueLiang Dance house!

"Is it true!?" He shouted in excitement, the Yueliang Dance house is known for its unique dance style but mostly for the beautiful dancers. It is said that whoever watches their dance, surely have felt heaven. The dancers are often described as angels descended upon this mortal realm. 

But not anyone can go to this dance house, only prominent and rich peoples can enter and enjoy the dancers. Even though Jin Xiaobao's family is rich and well-known throughout the Jiangan, being a kunze, he was not allowed to attend the dance House. Hell! He is not even allowed to step a foot outside.

It have always been his dream to watch them, as he is someone who loves dancing a lot. Afterall he has learned dancing from the famous dancer, Yu MeiYuan.

"Yes it is, Young Master! Your dream is finally going to be true!" Zhao Cai said, happy for Xiaobao's dream to come true.

"But, how did you got this?" He asked, looking at each and every words written on the letter. Each syllable felt as if it is swaying, the calligraphy is so beautiful, Xiaobao cannot help but be mesmerised by it. Who have written this beautiful letter? He must meet the person to be taught by them.

"Master, do you remember Young Master Pei?"

"Pei? Pei Yue?" 

"Yes, Young Master Pei have give this as a gift for your help."

Xiaobao can't help but laugh, Pei Yue, a fellow Kunze like him, the youngest child of Pei family, known for their silk trade. He once helped him when Pei Yue was getting harassed by some people. It was like fate, Xiaobao had sneaked outside with the help of Zhao Cai and Jin Bao, and fortunately met with Pei Yue who soon became a good friend to him.

Pei Yue would often visit him and tell him all the stories about Jiangan. And like a child, Xiaobao would listen, imagining each and every details.

"Master, isn't this is so great!? You could finally go to Yueliang dance house? I am so happy for, Young Master!" Jin Bao said, smiling happily. Seeing his young master happy makes him happy too.

"Ah, but would A'niang and A'die let me?" Xiaobao looked at his both servant.

Three of them trying to cook a plan. As much as the Jin Parents are lovely, they are ten times more strict towards the young kunze's safety.

"So you are telling me that Young Master Pei have invited you to a... party?" The Master of Jin Family asked, his voice filled with suspicion.

Ever since the attack on the Jin Family twelve years ago, where Jin Xiaobao was almost kidnapped, the Jin parents have always been wary about their child. Not even letting him go to the outside. Jin Xiaobao is a obedient and filial child, always listening to his parents without second thought, but every child have a rebellious side. With how much the Jin parents always pamper their only kunze child, Jin Xiaobao knows whatever he asks are never denied, wether it is to have the most precious gems found in the entire Jiangan or to have the most famous people tutor him. Anything he have ever asked, his parents would bring him to it. But only with one condition : he must never leave the Jin Courtyard.

Well, that have never been a problem to him, he have learned each and every corner of the house he have grown up in, and with Zhao Cai and Jin Bao, he could easily sneak outside without getting caught.

Jin Xiaobao nodded, his eyes sparkling in excitement. He wish his parents would let him go, despite knowing that they would never let him go to the Yueliang house, which is known for their notorious Qianyuan dominated audience. For some reason, his parents believe that the dance House is nothing more then a brothel house in disguise. So no matter how much he begs, the Jin parents would never let him go there, thus he have to lie to them for this once in a lifetime chance.

"A'Bao, we can call Young Master Pei here, how about this?" The Madam of Jin Family said, her voice soft and graceful. Unlike her husband who is bit chubby, she have a very young face with long lashes. 

"But- A'niang, I want to go there! Pei Yue is my only friend outside, and I have promised him that I would come!" Xiaobao said, his eyes spilling crocodile tears. If there is one thing that is the absolute truth that would be the fact that the Jin parents cannot bear to watch their dear son crying.

"Aiyah, don't cry A'bao, you know how much your mother and I fear about your safety. " Master Jin said, trying to calm his son while Madam Jin caressing Xiaobao.

"A'Bao, the world is vast, filled with many bad people. We do not want any harm to fall upon you." Madam Jin said.

"But A'niang, I have Zhao Cao and Jin Bao to take care of me. And I would return before sunset. Also, I am already eighteen, I can take care of myself." Xiaobao said, looking at his parents. His eyes filled with sadness, "A'niang-A'die, please..."

Both the parents sighed. Ofcourse, Xiaobao is at that age where they couldn't restrain him to one place. It is inevitable for him to want to go outside and explore. 

"Well, we could permit-" "Really!" "First listen to your A'die, you should not wander off without supervision and will return before sunset." Madam Jin looked at her husband, clutching her hand tightly on her son's robe. After all she is just a mother, worrying over her son's safety.

Xiaobao nodded in excitement, "I promise!" His smile brighter then that of a sun.

"Woah! Young Master, you really gain permit from Master and Madam." Jin Bao said, his eyes filled with pride for his young master.

The Young Kunze in return smiles, "There is nothing that Jin Xiaobao cannot have."

"Young Master, the carriage is ready." Zhao Cai informed, Xiaobao nodded and walked off towards his golden carriage.

Both the parents watched as their son waved him goodbye, "Darling, I don't feel right." The Madam Jin said, her eyes filled with worry.

Master Jin holds her arms, hugging her lightly, "It's alright dear, this is first time our Xiaobao is going outside that is why you are feeling such. One day our little son is going to get married and run off to his husband's eyes. What will you do then?" He said teasing his wife.

Madam Jin smiled, imagining her son in red wedding robes, walking down the alter with his future husband. "I just hope he doesn't have a clingy husband like you, then." Lightly slapping on her husband's chest.

"Oh dear!" Both the couple laughed happily, suddenly a servant hurriedly walked in, "Master! Madam! Young Miss is throwing tantrum again!" The servant was almost crying.

The couples looked at each other, they have raised biggest tantrum-babies ever!

Xiaobao sat at a corner, the place reserves for extreme V.I.P.s, he thought to himself that this Pei Yue must have spend a lots of gold to get a ticket. His eyes roamed through the wooden stadium, people have stormed into the place, gossips buzzing into the place. Most of them were Zhongyong or Qianyuan. And occasionally he found some Married Kunzes, accompanying their Lord. 

Xiaobao's eyes is filled with excitement, like a child getting his favourite toy. Despite the fact he once or twice have found his way out of the Jin mansion, he never had a chance to explore his own hometown. He have only watched people bustling around the market from afar, and now looking at them from such small distance, his heart beats fast.

Suddenly his eyes laid on a man, wearing a long white robes. His face hidden behind a veil attached to a straw hat. It wasn't just him, but even some bystanders, looking at the strange yet mysterious man.

Suddenly the man looked back, and under the veil, Xiaobao can almost see bright golden eyes. Their eyes met, Xiaobao swears his breath hitched. A strange shiver ran through his spine.

The world around him felt as if it have stopped, both the man looked at each other. One's face exposed of all emotions, another hiding behind a thin veil. Yet, a familiar spark ran through them both.

A fate? Destiny? Xiaobao cannot shook that feeling off, his face soon formed a frown, tearing his eyes away from the man. A ache ran through his heart, weirdly enough.

"Young Master, where are you looking? The show gonna start soon!" Zhao cai whispered.

"Uh-Yeah." Xiaobao nods, looking back at the stage. But his mind, drifting onto the strange man. Who is that man? Why does he seems so familiar?

The performance was exactly as rumoured stated, divine and beautiful, there was no such instances where Xiaobao hadn't found himself being amazed by the way each dancer carries themselves.

Xiaobao, ever since a child, have always been fascinated by the world of art, especially dance. Watching such enticing performance, Xiaobao can feel himself swayed like he is in a hypnosis.

And by the time his senses came back, the sun have set and the sky dulled in darkness. Xiaobao hurriedly entered inside the golden carriage while Zhao Cai and Jin Bao sat in front.

"Zhao Cai! Jin Bao! Hurry up, or else A'niang and A'die would eat me up alive!" Xiaobao shouted, his heart beating fast. His parents may be sweetest in this world but their anger is dangerous then God's wrath. Even though Xiaobao have rarely been subjected to it, that doesn't mean he is not scared of his lovely parents.

The carriage runs through the forest path, Xiaobao prayed that his parents would just forgive and does not find out about his visit to Yueliang house.

Suddenly the carriage stopped in a hurried away, Jin Xiaobao almost fell if not balancing himself at the right time.

"Wh-What happened?" Xiaobao asked, his voice filled with fear. He lifted the curtains slightly, looking at the dark forest path. He found Zhao Cai and Jin Bao, standing firmly, their swords pointed at a group of black-dressed men.

"Young Master don't come out!" Jin Bao shouted, an attack, they are under attack! Jin Xiaobao cannot believe his eyes. He can feel his heart beating so fast, that it can come out any second.

Soon the group of men launched themselves at the duo, the noise of sword clashing pierced through the silence of the forest.

Xiaobao looked at Zhao Cai and Jin Bao, fighting bravely to protect him. His hand clutched to his expensive clothes. Fear engulfing him. Why is this happening?

Suddenly the door of the carriage is kicked open, Xiaobao looked at the black-dressed man who holds his hand tightly, he winced in pain, "What are you doing? Let me go!" Xiaobao shouted.

But the man only dragged him outside. Zhao Cai watched this, and cleared his, attacked the man who was holding Xiaobao in a painful grip.

"You Bastard! Let go of my Young Master!" Zhao cai shouted, pointing his sword at the man. Pushing it towards the man, in the middle of the fight, he let go of Xiaobao who ran off towards the carriage, hiding behind it, as Jin Bao and Zhao Cai fights off with the attackers.

The young Jin was in the verge of breaking down, he have never witnessed such violence before. Fighting have never been his cup of tea, and looking at such intense scene, Xiaobao can feel himself filled with anxiety.

One of the man from the group noticed him, and threw a dagger at Xiaobao. In the instances, Xiaobao's entire body freezed, watching as the dagger nears at him. He closed his eyes, is this how his end gonna be? He still haven't explored the world? He have not yet met his fated Mate? He have dreamed of his Qianyuan, his marriage, he even have his future children's name penned down! Why must his end be before all of this! 

A sound of clinking reached his ears, the wait of his demise fades behind his daze. He opened his eyes, a looming white figure stands in front of him. As if a wall from any harm. The man's figure, broad and stiff, like that of a soldier. Xiaobao watched as the man fights of any intruder. The scene which was once heinous to Xiaobao, now feels ethereal. The man moves like a fish in a water, swift and fast. He looked closely at the man, isn't this is the same person back at the Yueliang house!? What is he doing here?

The group of men only increased in number, three versus twenty! Xiaobao who may have no knowledge about war craft can easily understand they are outnumbered, Zhao Cai and Jin Bao despite being trained by best of martial arts master, have no real ground experience. Even then they have done incredible job, throwing their swords through their enemies throats. But they are equally exhausted, it is a matter of seconds that they will lose their energy.

Zhao Cai looked at the man who for some reason is protecting his young master, "You- take our young master to Suzhou! We will held them as much as we can!"

The man's sharp eyes found its way to Xiaobao, whose face is stained by his own tears. His entire body quivering. He nods, and then lifts Xiaobao on his arm, jumps through the tall trees.

Xiaobao closed his eyes tightly, the cold wind slapping his wet face. As he opened his eyes, he looked at his saviour. The man had a sharp yet beautiful face. Eyes as sharp as Eagle. Thin red lips adorns the face. God must have taken a lots of time to make this man. He could faintly smell a sandalwood scent emitting from the man. Is this man a Qianyuan? He have never been so close to a Qianyuan before, except his childhood friend, his parents have always been wary of Qianyuans.

He saw some men, chasing them. Throwing daggers, which the man swiftly defends himself from. Not even one closing to him.

But suddenly he stopped in the middle of the forest, Xiaobao hides his face on the Man's chest. What type of trouble have he founds himself in? Why are these men attacking him? He have never wronged anyone, and his parents have always been faithful, so why would anyone try to harm him?

More men attacked them, and like a hero, the man defends Xiaobao. Xiaobao stood behind the man's figure.

"Give us the Young Jin and we would let you off!" One of the them shouts, the man simply glares and stood in a fighting stance.

And the fighting went on, Xiaobao looked as they are standing on a cliff, the strong river current flows below it. One wrong move and they will be forced to jump from here. His entire body went still as they stand at the edge of the cliff, small pebbles falling off. The height, it is enough for a man to die.

The man took hold of Xiaobao's waist and did the most unexpected thing, he jumped off from the cliff.

Xiaobao shouted, moments of his life flashed before his eyes. His mother's soft humming, his father's teasing smile, his little sister's playdates. Memories of Zhao Cai and Jin Bao, the playfulness they shared. He closed his eyes tightly, waiting for the death to engulf him.

The two body splashed onto the river, "Young Master!" Only a distant sound echoed through the buzzing ears of Xiaobao. His world drifted onto darkness.

Chapter Text

“It’s not love at first sight, it’s having the sight, to distinguish true love, from just mere beauty.” – Anthony Liccione

The Master and Madam of Jin sits on the courtyard, waiting for their son to come back. They have already sent people to check about their sons whereabouts.

"Why is there is no news till now?" Madam Jin said, pacing over her sit. Her face knitted in a huge frown. It have been past sunset and stars have started twinkling over the night sky, yet Xiaobao have not reached home.

Before Master Jin could say anything, Zhao Cai, Jin Bao and other servants reached them. Seeing Zhao Cai and Jin Bao, both parents stood up. The two boys have been practically raised by them. They are as close as their own son is, to the extent their only job is reduced to only taking care of Xiaobao.

"Zhao cai! Jin Bao! Where is Xiaobao?" Madam asked, rushing towards both the boys. They both solemnly looked at each other and could only lower their heads.

"Have cat got your tongues? Answer!" Master Jin said in hurried tone. 

Both of them kneeled and bowed before them, seeing such action shocked both the parents, "Master, Madam! This is all our fault! We couldn't save Young Master!" 

The words seems to have stinged to the Madam, her eyes widen with shock! Couldn't save? What fault have befallen onto her dear son to have those words spoken. Master Jin looked anxiously at his wife, "What do you mean by that?", catching his wife who seems to lose consciousness. "Master, there was an attack, we fought against them but our power was no match to them, and-and Young Master fell from the cliff." 

A deep silence engulfed the situation, Madam Jin's eyes fluttered, tears mustering up in them. She can't imagine her fragile child being attacked so viciously. She looked at the two boys who were supposed to save her child, cloths torn, injuried all over their bodies.

She doesn't know whom to blame, the fact she have not been aware of potential harm towards her son or these two boys who are not competent to save him.

She found herself losing consciousness, her mind cannot dwell onto the thought of losing her child. She muttered under her breath, "Xiaobao..."

Master Jin saw his wife's body going limp, "XiaoMei! Call the doctor!", He said. His own health betraying him. He could feel, his breath shallow and slow, the asthma kicking him.

He ordered some men to search for Xiaobao, alive or dead. He do not wish to think about his young son dieing. His son should have reached to his old age, with all grey hairs and ten-twenty grandchildren playing around him. Which parents would even dream of their son dieing before their own time?

"Call Prince Su, say its urgent! Do not let this out." Master Jin said, his voice sounds resigned. All he can think about his young son's innocent smiles and playful antics. What have befallen onto his loving family 

Xiabao sees himself in a dark forest, the same forest he always sees in his dream. The forest that twelve years ago he lost in.

But this time, he isn't in his child form, rather his present body. He looked around, the place looks same. He tried moving, but found himself nailed to the ground. He can only turn around but not leave that place. Strange.

Suddenly the same rustling sound startled him, no matter how many times he have heard this, it would be like the day one. Scaring him, freaking him to the core. Making him shiver, and goosebumps following him through a lifetime. And this time he felt everything at once, his mind overwhelmed by the emotional turmoil going on inside him. He is shaking like a leaf on a rainy day, as the water droplets forced its way on him.

He turned towards the place where the sound came from, and there a man stood, the same man he saw on dance house, the same man who had saved him and the same man with whom he jumped off from the cliff. Is it like circle? The boy who would appear in his dream like a frightful nightmare is the same boy whose presence sparks homely inside of him.The golden bright eyes, sometime in his mind he would wonder how can someone have such eyes, hypnotising him, driving him crazy, "You, who are you?" He asked, his eyes seems to have frozen onto the figure. He can feel his entire body going slack, everything slowly going into blur. 

A somewhat familiarity brushed through him.

The man moved his lips, a name, a word, he spoke. But Xiaobao only heared a buzzing sound, a bee coveting around a flower. That he have become, trying to posses this man but failing each time. He tries reading the lips, but to no avail he couldn't understand anything. The world seems to close on him, everything started being so small. To an extent, all his view is only on those golden eyes, until -

The man fades onto the darkness, leaving Xiaobao alone. And lonely. A heart-wrenching loneliness. A state he have never found himself.

And he wonders, if that what he will become? But back inside his mind, he can hears the whisper of his ownself, that he would accept anything if he can be with his .....

Xiaobao opened his eyes. Waking up from his deep slumber. Clutching his head which is aching badly. Memories of last .. night? How many days have been passed? Every actions came flooding into his mind. He is sure one thing, jumping off a cliff is not a fun thing!

He looked around, his body stiff from sleeping on the hard bed he have never slept in his life. The room, is too small. A bed and a wooden table, probably for having dinner, is all that is in the room.

Xiaobao thought, the rooms for servant back in Jin Family is three times bigger then this. Where is he? No, the first thing should be, how is he alive after that dashing heroic jump?

His mind drifting onto the mysterious man who had saved him. Who could that be? All he knows that man must be a qianyuan, with that smell and dominating figure, he is sure on that. But why did he saved him? Maybe the man is his secret admirer? Ah! That must be! After all Xiaobao is a top-notch beauty in the entire Jiangan, why would a total stranger want to save him from mysterious attack risking his own life, if that man is not in love with him. Afterall love is the only that can make one mad, right?

Now that he thinks, that stranger is not that bad looking either, with his personal knowledge about different people, Xiaobao is certain that noone can come close to that man in terms of looks. And also his fighting skills, as elegant as Swan. He have never seen the type of fighting style the stranger used, he must be from some prominent martial sect!

Suddenly the door of the room opened and a pretty little girl entered, "Uh! Young Master you are awake!?" And Xiaobao truly didn't understand that wether she is asking or stating a fact. He only smiled slightly, "Looks like I am awake."

The little girl had a tray on her hand which she placed it on the small table beside the bed. The little girl for a split second reminds Xiaobao of his little meimei¹, missing her terriblh. The girl looked up at him, her little doe eyes filled with excitement, "I am so happy you are awake! Your husband was worrying so much, he didn't sleep for three days!" Xiaobao coughed loudly, h-husband? What husband? He is not betrothed to anyone and now he have husband over night, "What do you mean by husband?" He asked.

"Um, the one who carried you here and took care of you, for THREE days!" The little girl said, shoving her three little fingers on Xiaobao's face.

Three days, THREE DAYS!? He have been in coma for three days and a man have apparently pretended to be his husband and took care of him. The image of that mysterious stranger flashed through his eyes, imagining that man carrying him around. He blushed, indeed that man must be in love with him, why would he pretends to be his husband? Well considering he is the richest Young Master in Jiangan, he must have a husband who is equal to him. Even thought he couldn't pay gold as bridal price, he is okay with silver also. 

"Eh, why is your face so red?" The girl asked, looking innocently at this weird young master. "Ah, it's nothing," Xiaobao said, laughing at himself, what is he thinking, of course he wouldn't marry just because! He would at first test the man if he deserves this young master or not,"Umm, can i know what is this pretty miss' name?"

"Zhen Hua!" The girl, Zhen Hua, said smiling brightly.

"Zhen Hua, where am I right now?" Xiaobao can't help but feel the awkerdness feeding over him. 

"At Peiyang." Zhen Hua replied, sitting comfortably beside Xiaobao. Staring at this weirdly pretty gege. She have heared from her niang that this young master is Kunze, and she have never seen a kunze in her life. Looking at this gege, she can't stop herself but awe at him. With his hair down, he looks so soft, just like niang.

"Peiyang!" Xiaobao shouted, how did he reached at the far end of Jiangan? Peiyang and Suzhou are literally two opposite polar of Jiangan. Was the water currents were that much strong? He sighed, can almost see his parents frightened and his little sister crying her eyes out. How could he go back, alone? Wait-that, "Uhm where is that man who carried me?"

"Oh, he must be-" "Ah'Hua.." A soft alluring voice of a female interrupted Zhen Hua. The lady walked inside the room, her eyes similar like that of Zhen Hua's, slightly smaller then the child. She looked at Xiaobao and for a mere second she stopped at her tracks, until she literally jumped at Xiaobao, "You are awake!?" And Xiaobao do not know whether it is again a question or a statement.

"Oh my! Why haven't you called me Ah'Hua? We all have been so worried, Are you alright, dear? Do you feel any pain? You must be hungry, I will bring some water." Before Xiaobao can answer any of her question, she runs out of the room.

All he can do is look at the fading figure of the woman, "She is my A'niang, she worries a lot at little thing." Zhen Hua said, unfazed at whatever happened in front of her. "Your A'niang... haha..." Xiaobao wonders, he must have done some grave mistake in his past life to have found himself in such situation.

The lady enters with freshly cooked food. Xiaobao by that time have asked many questions, regarding about the mysterious man, to Zhen Hua. Three days ago, the man carrying him reached at her home, asking for help. Since then, the lady of this household have been taking care of him. While that man, weirdly enought Zhen Hua didn't say much except that she thinks they both are good pair. Xiaobao didn't think much and just washed his face.

"Young Master, here have some food." The lady, Zhen Yuming as she have introduced herself, said.

"Thank you so much, Lady Zhen." He said, picking up his chopstick and started eating. 

"Umm, can I ask where is the mister who have saved me?" Xiaobao asked.

Lady Zhen looked at Xiaobao for some time, Xiaobao felt a little off on that look, "Ofcourse! Master Zheng is just across the room. I will call him, If you want." Xiaobao slightly smiled and nods, "I would love to meet, Master Zheng."

Xiaobao sits on the bed. Suddenly he feels nervousness taking over, for no reason at all! He will just meet his saviour to thank him.

The door of his room opened slowly, and Xiaobao can almost feel his breath caught inside his chest. The man, Master Zheng. And if there is anything called ethereal, this man must be it.

In the words of poets, like sunrise kissing sunset, golden eyes met almond's gentle haze, a harmonious fusion of warmth and softness, as if dawn's radiance had finally found its tranquil shore.

Chapter Text

“I didn’t know you this morning, and now I don’t remember not knowing you.” — Nicola Yoon

Zhen Yuming walked towards the secluded room. Her mind constantly battling over various topics. Anxiousness spread all over her face.

The sudden appearance of the forgotten Prince have thrown a huge wave towards her. There have been no sign of this mission, not a single letter reached her until the injured figure of the Prince entered her courtyard like a madman. She grits her teeth, after the birth of her little girl, she had sworn to never entangle with any politics or this princely battle, but fate have overthrown her in life.

She knocked at the door, as lightly as she can. Anger, distress and overall fear seeking refuge inside of her.

"Come in." A deep voice interrupted her thoughts, she slowly opened the door and entered. Shutting the door tightly, one could say she is meeting her affair.

But the place she lives is completely hidden from any outsiders, only few people knows about this place's presence.

"Prince Huaien." She greeted, but her voice filled with malice. Her personality completely different from what she had shown to Jin Xiaobao.

Huaien who was meditating, stood up seeing Zhen Yuming. His sharp eyes looking at each and every twitch of the woman's action. Despite being in a disadvantageous position, his body in a stance of flight. Like that of a warrior.

By one look, no one can say that this person can be a master of martial arts. His youthful face being a disguise of a poisonous snake he is. Ready to bite in any chance he gets.

"Lady Zhen." 

Zhen Yuming fumed in anger, Huaien is known for his one word conversations, that she knows. She have witnesed this very man growing up. From an innocent child to a merciless killing machine, and her dear wife, unlucky to get her end on this man's hand.

"The Young Jin wishes to see you, My Prince." The way of calling Huaien is more as sarcasm then out of respect. For Zhen Yuming, there is no respect for killers, yet her hands are tied to be civilised. Even breathing the same air with him feels suffocating.

"Have you told him?" Huaien's voice is that of a commander. And Zhen Yuming shakes her head, she is not an idiot to give the prince's identity so easily. This prince's life is also tangled with her and her child's life.

Huaien nods, he walks past her, "After this, Go away. Take him with you. Let all my debt drown with this." Zhen Yuming said, her words firm with confidence but a plea hidden behind those.

Huaen stooped at the doorway, looking back at the woman who have saved him despite all the things happened between them.

Once under the moon, he have admired this woman who was his mentor, until love blinded her, betraying the very person who fed her.

"Your debt is with My father, Let him decide what he wish." With that, he left her. The voice of birds chirping entered the faded memories in Zhen Yuming. She gripped her sword, hidden under her long clothes. 'I wish you fell in love, My Prince. To understand the despair of losing.'

Huaen entered the room, and his eyes meets with Jin Xiaobao. The big almond eyes, that have unexpectedly drawn him towards the kunze.

For him, he rarely meets with kunzes, often staying away from them. His father have reprimanded him, that these creatures are only meant to warm the beds of a qianyuan and nothing more then that. He could only nod, as his father teach him the ugliness a kunze holds.

Amd growing up, he is supposed to walk on his father's path. A path full of thorn and blood.

"Master Zheng..?" The young kunze calls his saviour, the strikingly handsome qianyuan, he have never seen such beauty in his eighteen years of life. His childhood friend, Su Yin, who is the most sought after qianyuan of this generation do not even seem to come as par as this man.

Huaien looks at the Jin, and wonders what his next plan should be. There have already been numerous blunder, if his father knows, he would eventually know. Under the hawking eyes of his father, not even air would move without his permission.

"I can't thank you enough, Master Zheng, for saving me. After I return home, I would most definitely reward you with five generation fortune. I promise." Xiaobao says, raising his three finger up promising a futile thing that Huaien have no use. 

Huaien only listened the rambling of Xiaobao, his father is right, these kunzes are one annoying thing.

"Young Master! What is your full name? Uh, I don't want to pry. But shouldn't I should know my saviour's name? It is only right thing to do! Or else how can I tell the story of how a beauty saved my life?" Xiaobao rambled, making Huaien sit on the bed. Words falling out of his mouth, not even leaving a breath for Huaien to speak. 

Looks like he is completing his word limit that have been stopped during his three-days coma.

"Zheng Huaien."

Xiaobao stops his ramble and looks at the beauty. "Hein?" 

"My name, Zheng Huaien." Huaien repeats again thinking that maybe Xiaobao can't heat properly.

"Huaien, Huaien." The name rolls out from Xiaobao's word like that is where it belong. Huaien feels a weird warmth inside him, as he hears his own name being called in such a delicate way. He shouldn't feel this, yet at the same time confused on what this may be.

All his life, his name have been called either as a form of discipline or from fear.

But the way this kunze calls him, sounds so wrong.

"Such a beautiful name, you have. Huaien." Xiaobao says, softly smiling at Zheng Huaien. His eyes filled with admiration.

Huaien didn't even payed him any attention, he have already lost much time entertaining this Jin. He stood up, "I will take you back to your home. We will leave after an hour. Be ready." With that he stormed out. His heart and mind, in disarray.

Xiaobao looked at the the white figure who walked out of his room. For a second, he was stunned, how can a human be so fast? But then again this Hauien is the one who fought against twenty men and even saved him without any scratch after falling from the cliff.

He giggled at himself, take him back home? Hmm, this man must be head over heels for him. Or else who would care about a stranger this much. Xiaobao hide his face under his palm. Well, that Huaien is such a cold beauty. Trying to play hard to get. Even though, it should be him but he also knows how to catch a fish.

He can be the ice but Xiaobao is also like fire. And he will melt this ice beauty and make him mine. And of course, he will only take gold and silver as bridal price, no matter whether that person is his saviour or what.

The Mansion of Jin looks like a graveyard. The Master of this Grand family looks dejected, his face lost of all colours. As if the old man have aged twenty years more. He clutched his wife's hand, who lays on the bed. Her eyes staring at the golden bangles that once had adorned her sweet child's delicate wrist. A gift she had gave to her precious sweetheart just last year, now held on by her, idle. A little girl sniffed, XiaoYu, with her delicate face and big black eyes like that of her brother now looks red. Her white face looks paler then the moon. She weakly puts her head under her mother's chin.

The loss of Xiaobao have struck them so hard, they have forgotten to even eat. Their days pass on remembering the mischievous laugh or annoying cry of Xiaobao. The servants of the household looks at the poor family, they only pray for Prince Su to come early and rescue them from this grief. The Jin Family despite being rich and noble have always treated them with kind and respect. And the young master have also loved them like family, they cannot bear the misfortune that have fallen upon this happy family.

Zhao Cai hurriedly opened the door, "Master! Madam! Prince Su have come."

Master Jin hearing the Prince Su's name stood up, "Su Yin? Where is he?"

"Here, Uncle." Prince Su, Su Yin enters the room. His youthful and handsome feature striking a huge difference to the people present in the room. His black abyss like eyes took hold of the Jin Elders whom he respect and love like his own parents. His heart pains seeing the once joyous people, so grief strike.

"Su Yin, oh Su Yin? Have you come?" Madam Jin calls, raising her hands towards the Prince. Su Yin hurried forwards to Madam Jin. "Aunty Jin, I have." He caressed the lady's cheeck. Madam Jin is like a mother to him, in the absence of his own birth mother, it is the Madam of Jin Family who took care of him. Fed him with her own hand and wiped down his tears.

They both are like his parents more then his own. The affection they have given to him, even seven lifetimes is not enough to pay back.

"Oh Su Yin, I have lost my Xiaobao.." saying that, Madam Jin's eyes filled with tears. She cries her heart out, putting her head on Su Yin's shoulder.

Su Yin looks at Master Jin, "Uncle, don't worry. I have already sent people tracking Xiaobao. We will find him."

"We can only pray, son." Master Jin said, sighing loudly.

"Yin-gege, Bao-gege will come back home right?" Xiaoyu asks, her pretty little red eyes looks at Su Yin expectantly.

"Yes, I promise I will bring back Xiaobao safely." Su Yin says, his eyes firm with believe. No matter what happens, he won't let Xiaobao in any harm. And if he have to go to hell to save Xiaobao, he would do it without any worry of himself. Because keeping Xiaobao safe is far greater responsibility then his own life. Even though it have already been three days, he only regrets to not come early, if only he was in Suzhou this wouldn't have happened.

He swears, when Xiaobao will be found, he would lock him up in his room. Or maybe a golden cage, and that's where Xiaobao will stay. Away from any harm this world can bring.

Xiaoyu hugs Su Yin, if he have promised some, he won't break it. All she wants is her gege to be back and safe. She promises to herself that once she grows up, she won't let her gege run away anywhere like this.

Forever at one place.

Su Yin walls out of the room after reassuring the parents and the child. He looks at the ring that delicately sits on his ring finger.

"So that you don't forgot about me, and stay safe."

Once when they both were young and fool, Xiaobao gifted him this, while he was sent away at Dali to continue his studies.

Su Yin closed his eyes, kissing the ring faintly.

Xiaobao sneezed loudly, he looks around. Even though in Suzhou, the winter is yet to come, at Peiyang, the cold seems to reach before. He can occasionally feel shiver running through him.

He looks at Huaien who is busy putting things inside a travelling bag.

"Pretty gege, when will you be back?" Zhen Hua asks, her eyes sad. It is not daily that she meets with many people. She have never step a foot outside, and this pretty gege is the first person she meets. Even though he is not that pretty but she likes him. Too much.

"Ah! Once I return home, I will surely send an invitation to you. Then you can come to my house to play!" Xiaobao says, taking the little girl's hand and swinging them. She really reminds him a lot of his own sister. Maybe they both will get along a lot? Xiaoyu doesn't have many friends outside of Manor, Zhen Hua can be perfect playdate for her.

"Really?" Zhen Hua asks, play with pretty gege at his home does sound fun.

Xiaobao nods, his headpiece jingling with him. Zhen Hua laughs at the sound, "Gege when I will get older, will you be my husband?"

Xiaobao coughs a little, he looks at the busy figure of Huaien and smiles devilishly, "Well, what to do if my husband gets jealous?" Huaien side glanced at Xiaobao, and then return back to his work.

Zhen Hua looks at the handsome Qianyuan, hmm, the qianyuan is a very difficult person. He doesn't talk neither he smiles. Pretty gege deserves someone who is like her not this cold person. "Well, then i will fight pretty gege's husband! And make you mine." She said, her face showing full confidence.

Xiaobao laughed loudly, he didn't payed much attention to the child's word, it is just a child antiques, that will pass away anyway.

"Alright, when you grow up and defeat Huaien, I will marry you." Xiaobao says lightly. Zhen Hua hearing this jumps in excitement!

"Promise?"

"Yes, promise."

Huaien coughed lightly, both of them turns their face at him. While Xiaobao's face is adorned in smile, Zhen Hua glared at the older Qianyuan. She looks at him and scoffed, well he may be pretty but Xiabao-gege likes her more and even promised her.

"You take the horse and wait for me at the gate." Huaien says, giving the rein to Xiaobao who happily compiled with the request. "Okay, come soon!" He said, kissing the Child's cheeks affectionately and saying his goodbyes.

Zhen Hua crossed her hand and looks at Huaien, "You, take care of my Pretty gege. He is my future husband." 

Huaien stares at Zhen Hua. Husband and that Jin Xiaobao? He looks more like wife rather then husband. Anyway, he doesn't have time for this.

"Tell Zhen Yuming, that Tong Sect will not disturb her for now." And with that he walks away from there.

Zhen Hua scoffed, this is her rival. Heh!

Chapter Text

"Hah! I am tired!" Xiaobao cried out, sitting on a large stone. He stared at Huaien, who only look back at him unsympatheticaly. How can someone be so beautiful but heartless, even Su Yin, his best friend who have straight face shows concern for him without hesitation

They have been going around the forest path like this for last four days, without any sign of humans! All he sees and smell is rabbits that Huaien magically hunts. Well, yes he is a good hunter but that's all he does.

The fact that he have not bathed properly in the last four days is enough to make him feel disgust, but no he also have to watch as Huaien would skin the poor animal and roast him.

Why is he here!? "Can't we take rest here for the day?" Xiaobao asked, sweats all over his face.

"We just did two hours ago." Huaien deadpanned voice echoes through the forest.

"Surely we did, but I am tired! My legs and back are killing me, look at my feet. Its so red and sore and ugly!" And Xiaobao swears he can cry for a nth time this day cause he have enough of it. The horse licks his face as if showing his like mindness, it's not even him but the horse too is tired for running continuously. 

"Aww, look A-Yu is also tired." Xiaobao said, patting the Horse's head. Huaien looks at both of them, he sighs inwardly, he have to cross this forest by tommorow but the way the young master whines every hour is making him more angry. This is the reason he argued to not do this mission.

If he doesn't reach YunPi by tommorow, he can miss his long sighted target.

"Hey, please please please, A-Yu also wants to rest. Look he is so tired and I am tired. Just for some minutes? And look at the cloud! Its so dark and chilly, i guess it will rain soon." Xiaobao gave his best puppy eyes, pointing his finger above. The sky truly is going dark. Even though Huaien had checked the weather before starting their journey, it is not shocking to see rainy days before the incoming winter.

Huaien sighed quietly, if they get caught up in rain it will take more two days to reach the city, "Alright, there is a cave not far, we can rest up there."

Xiaobao smilled brightly, he can't believe that Huaien actually agreed to his request. He stood up, and started walking behind Huaien, the horse's rein on his hand. Even though they can just ride the horse, but Huaien said it will be easy to track them down at that rate. Their enemies can be lurking anywhere.

Well that doesn't matter, Xiaobao believes in Huaien. And whatever he says must be the truth, then why would he help him? Where can we find such good man nowadays?

Xiaobao looks up, rain drops falling on him, "Ah! It's started raining!" He looks at the entrance and holds Huaien's hand running towards it. Huaien is completely startled, the sudden contact of warm skin to his cold one, made him shiver. He can almost smell the faint scent of orange blossoms emitting from Xiaobao.

It almost made him loose control. He closed his eyes tightly, trying to block the scent reaching his nose.

They both enters the cave, Xiaobao's hand still tightly holding Huaien's. The rain pouring more heavily. Xiaobao looks at the dark clouds who seems too sad. He tched, "Looks like it will rain heavily today."

He look back at Huaien who seems to stare at him, those golden eyes piercing him, looking deep into his soul.

The water droplets fall from Xiaobao's chin to the collarbone, Huaien's eyes taking hold of each drop lines, that fades inside the clothes damping it. Ths soft skin before him looks delirious, and he can feel his teeth aching to mark those in red. And soft scent gland, hiding beneath the long black hair, the blossoms he wish to smell all day and night.

A sudden, unfamiliar desire taking hold of him, he can not understand the feelings he is going through. A dark domineering emotion, holding him up, making his throat go dry. Why does he feel this? How can he feel this?

It all must be a deceit, as his father have said. Kunzes are terrible deceit, masking their scent alluring to drown the Qianyuans into them, into endless pit of torment. He have seen it before his eyes, he have smelled every scents to exist. But noone have made him feel so terrible, until this kunze, who out of nowhere, flocks his scent everywhere. Making him fall into this dark pit.

Hours of long training under his father's sharp eyes, fades into black just by Xiaobao's appearance. He should run, he should escape this. Or else, or else, he may mark him up. Claim his own. Chain him in a golden cage.

Xiaobao looks at Huaien, as his eyes darkens by his sight. Then he looks at their entwined hands, he quicksilver leaves his hand. Hauien hand lays there, the sudden fade of warmth startled him awake from his shameless thoughts. How can he think of such things about some lowly kunze?

"I-I am sorry, i didn't meant to." Xiaobao says, fingers fidgeting nervously. He clearly knows by now that Huaien doesn't really like touching, blame his curious self. 

But then his eyes lands on a red spot on Huaien's arm. The cloth on it fully red, like blood?

"Huaien, your arm?" He touch the arm lightly, not daring to look at Huaien's face. He can imagine the sneering resting face and almost expect a sarcastic reply. But when he didn't got any of it, he looked up only for Huaien to stare back with those dark golden eyes. There was no expression yet Xiaobao can feel everything, every thoughts that Huaien must be going through.

He is young, Huaien is young. They both are Kunze and Qianyuan, opposite genders known to lust for each other. It is a known fact, Xiaobao should have expected such reaction, yet he can't feel but be dissapointed, kind of.

"Umm, I have some medicine. You can apply it on the wound." With that, he went to look for a salve in the bag. He had kept it for emergency purpose, well what's more of an emergency then right now?

"No need for that, I don't feel any pain." Huaien voice echoes through the too silent cave, only the rain drops and occasional thundering helping them of any noise.

"Just because it doesn't pain, does not mean that it do not need be taken care of."

Xiaobao looks at Huaien, his almond eyes hard and firm and he almost can imagine him looking like his mother.

"Why should we waste our time at looking at something that do not disturbs?" Huaien argues back, putting medicine on such a small wound feels useless when it can just heal by itself.

"And just because it do not disturb does not mean it do not exist." Xiaobao faces Huaien, the words fell out of his mouth like a knowledgeable philosopher. He swears that if Zhao cai and Jin Bao would have been here, they would have clapped so hard.

"Come, let me put some on you." He held out his hand, Huaien looks back, his eyes filled with mistrust. But deep in his heart, he want to reach out and he does that.

There is no wrong, to be wanted is to be loved. Huaien is never wanted

Xiaobao made Huaien sits on a large stone nearby, he lifts Huaien's flowy sleeves. Wide big eyes looks at the ugly wound poorly bandaged, "You are hurt so badly! And you said it was okay." He exclaimed, slowly taking off the bandage.

The red wound peeks at Xiaobao mockingly, he cannot believe how this man can hide such thing with a straight face. Looking at it, he can feel it hurting badly. Even a small scratch can make him tremble, how did Huaien hid this so perfectly without flinching?

Huaien silently looks at the kunze who with utmost care and attention puts the salve on him. Even flinching when he puts some pressure around it. But all Huaien feels is numbness, it have been long since he have felt any pain in reality. By now, for him everything is numb. Quiet.

Xiaobao lightly blows on the wound, he looks up to find Huaien staring at him, he laughs slightly, "It helps to not feel much pain."

Huaien blinks, "Childish." And looked at the rain pouring heavily on the ground, making pitter-patter sound.

Xiaobao scoffed, "It's not childish, A-niang used to do this everytime I get little scratches. And I do this on my meimei."

Huaien finds it odd, how can blowing on the wound can make someone feel less pain. That doesn't make any sense. When he used to once feel pain, his healers usually used to put anesthesia to mild down his groaning. He shakes his head, this kunze is terrible to understand. A waste of time.

Suddenly a loud thunder lighten up the mildly darkened place. Xiaobao clutched Huaien's hand tightly and closed his eyes.

He opened and meet with the unflinching golden eyes, that reminds him of his dreams dreadfully.

"Sorry, I got scared." With that he stood up and put the salve back inside the bag. He turns back, Huaien standing in the middle of the cave, like he doesn't belong there. 

Truly he do not, the sharp yet gentle figure of Huaien is almost like a divine god, descended in this mortal realm. The white robes adorning on him, revealing the toned and well-build figure of his.

Xiaobao is sure, he have never seen anyone so majestic and enigmatic man ever. Just one look, and his breath stuck inside him. And heart beat faster then ever.

Like a fate, or destiny. They meets so coincidentally that Xiaobao swears that he have never ever dreamed something like that 

Again, a loud thundering scares Xiaobao, who jumped and hugged Huaien. The stillness and silence between them returns as the noise slowly fades away. Xiaobao who regained his posture looks at the taller man, The golden and almond meets, and time have never stretched between them like this.

A meeting, as if both have been yearning for this.

"It have already been a week! And there's still no news of Xiaobao!" Su Yin shouts at his subordinates who kneels, their head lowering with each passing words.

Su Yin is annoyed and frustrated, the health of Uncle and Aunt Jin detorioting with each day passing without any news of their precious child. He is their only hope, and if he fails to retrieve, no he would bring back Xiaobao. Without any scratch and whoever have done this to him, he would gouge their eyes and cut them into pieces. He do not care about anything but Xiaobao's safety.

A black figures walks in, "Your Highness, we have got news who might have attacked that night."

Su Yin looks at the man, his eyes glowing red.

A letter passed towards him, he opened it carefully. 

"ZongZheng..........." the name echoes silently throughout the room. Each and everyone looks at each other with shock written all over their face.

Does this attack means something bigger then they have anticipated.

Su Yin glared at his subordinates, "No words, I say no words must pass outside. If I heard anything, I'll kill each and everyone of you." They all lowered their head and took the oath to not open their mouth to anything.

Su Yin looks at his personal guard, Su Yao, "Bring out the carriage, I need to attend someone."

Zhao Cai and Jin Bao looks at each other, even though they haven't heard the name quiet well, but the 'ZongZheng' is enough to plan shiver and fear inside them.

That surname is nothing but a bad luck to whoever is associated with. What have their Young Master gotten into?

They prayed to Budha, 'Our Young Master is young and have years to live. Please protect him."

Chapter Text

Xiaobao coughs lightly, feeling cold. The night air after a long thundering rain is quite chilly, as the cool air made its way to the young master who shiver in sensation.

The night is strangely quiet, occasionally the sound of crickets are the only source of sound. Xiaobao can feel that it is well past his bedtime, as his eyes would often close on it own due to lack of sleep and tiredness.

Occasionally his mind would make out weird shapes in the looming darkness outside which would fasten his heart beats.

Huaien walks towards him, a loaf of bread in his hand. The only source of food for the past four days. Xiaobao is not lying that he is missing his mother's delicious KungPao chicken, even thinking about it makes his mouth waters.

Oh Guanyin, he only prays to get back home as soon as possible. This nomad living is truly taking a toll on this young master who have never set foot into the wildness of life.

Despite the fact he was originally excited to explore the world but all he met with is just some tall tress and wild rabbits. Even the horse is tired with all the stiff ground he have been taking the young master around.

"Here, eat." Huaien hands over the hard bread. Xiaobao swears his teeth one day will fall off because of this. Then he will look so ugly! His dream of snagging this mystic Qianyuan will remain a dream then!

Taking the bread silently, he stares at it like that bread have wronged his seventeen generation. If eyes can kill someone, Xiaobao is murdering this bread in a very gruesome way.

"How many hours are we away from city?" Xiaobao asks, his voice grumpy. This wilderness is making him more or less irritable as the seconds passes by.

"We could have reached to the city by tonight, but if we start about tommorow's sunrise, we may reach by noon." Huaien says, his eyes filled in seriousness. Continuing his buisness of cleaning his already cleaned sword.

That man is truly a clean-freak, Xiaobao have seen Huaien cleaning the sword when he is doing nothing. The sword is sharp, he once tried touching it. Just by a single a touch, he found himself wounded by it [It was just a scratch anyway].

"Oh." With that, Xiaobao continue tearing his bread and ate it nonchalantly. He truly wants to whine, and scream and throw tantrum like a baby.

But this is his life now, he guess.

The night went on with Huaien guarding the entrance while putting sticks onto the ongoing fire. Xiaobao looks at the white serene man. Under the fire's bright orange light, the man looks like he a beauty out of this world. He have never seen anyone like Huaien before. There's no gentleness under those eyes, or maybe warmth. Huaien is much like his sword, sharp and cold. And he reminds Xiaobao of the moon. Alone. Even in the crowds of stars, moon stares at his visitor like he is different from all of those around him.

Moon looks better then the stars, Huaien looks better then the moon. But then again, much like moon, Huaien is filled with scars underneath yet it makes him more attractive.

Mostly the feeling of mysterious, something hiding beneath those dark gaze that pierces through the heart of Xiaobao.

He closes his eyes, dreaming of the warmth of his parents. So different from Huaien. Their smiles feeling up the empty void, but never fully. He wonders how Huaien would look if he smiles, and then the sharp cries of his sister. Throwing herself onto Xiaobao as she demands her favourite snacks to be brought in. His little spoiled meimei.

The sleep took over him like any day, while his mind slumber into the memories of childhood. Maybe the continuous nightmare will come back again to haunt him, and maybe he will find himself drowning into its strange comfort again.

The sun is high up on their head when they both enters the gate of the city. The markets buzzing with people all around. A pretty busy market.

Xiaobao felt his breath stuck onto himself, this is the first time in four days seeing any human who are not wild animals. And also the first time outside of his confinement at home. Even though he did used to sneak outside under his parents unnoticed eyes, but never too far, or never too exposed. Hiding behind the curtains and just observing. This is his first time out under the broad daylight.

Sitting atop the horse while Huaien pulling its rein towards the destination, Xiaobao looks around, the people occasionally looking back at him. Looks like the wide smile kunze can't contain his excitement under him.

Sometimes children playing around would wave at him, while he wound wave back. Truly the sense of independence making him forget about everything. He had dreamed of roaming around the busy streets, capture the beauty of nature inside his memories or just enjoying the view of comfort.

Stopping in front of a small inn, Xiaobao climbs down from the horse. In this four day, he have learned how to climb up and down from the horse's back, something he is very proud of.

"Is this where we are going to stay?" Xiaobao asks, standing beside Huaien who looks at the inn, suspectingly? Huaien's eyes lands onto the excited Kunze's eyes, the sudden closeness made him fumble. He took a step back, "Yes." With that walked inside the inn.

Xiaobao scrunched his eyes, after yesterday, Huaien have been acting all weird. Since morning he have been being very distant from him. And even walked all the way down from the mountain, refusing to sit behind him.

Not like he misses the close proximity they hold during riding the horse, but he just found it weird.

"Young Master, should I take your horse to the stable?" A older man approached Xiaobao, he looks at the elder and nods, and follows Huaien inside.

"How much for a day?" Huaien voice is all but business.

The inn's owner looks at Huaien's expression less face then at Xiaobao's excited one.

"2 silver for a day, 3 silver for a night. One room?"

Xiaobao looks at Huaien, his eyes more innocent then ever. They have shared a ride together, even shared cave rooms together, sharing a room is alright?

"Yes." Huaien voice states.

"Are you both married?" The question caught both of them off guard, yes they are a qianyuan and a kunze, with no official relation. Just some complete stranger. But yet

"Yes." "No!" Xiaobao looks at Huaien who just stated something that made him chock on his own saliva.

"Yes or no?" The owner's eyes now filled with suspicion. 

Before Huaien can reply, Xiaobao interrupts him, "We are! We just got married a few days ago, that is why. Haha, can we get to our room?" And slightly gave Huaien a look that gives 'What the fuck just happened!?' While the owners nods, calling out a boy, much younger then both Xiaobao and Huaien. "Show the young couple to their room, Ah-Sang"

Ah-Sang nods, "Here."

The three of them walked up the stairs, Xiaobao looks back and saw the owner looking at them thoroughly, even when their eyes met, the owner continue to stare at them like a hawk. What is wrong with this old man?

"Please forgive the owner, the city here is quite small, we do not receive many guests. And the elders here have quite definite view on... you know...." Ah-Sang tries to not make the situation more uncomfortable, as it is already. Leaving them to their room, "If there's anything, please call me. The bath is already drawn." He says lastly, giving a look at Xiaobao and leave.

Xiaobao knows that he looks like a pig played in mud, thus taking out a new pair of robes, "I am going to bath." Huaien simply nods, placing his stuffs on the table.

"And why did you said we are married? I know it is weird for ah.... to be alone together." Xiaobao do not know how to make this more or less awkerd, he is already flustered with whatever happened downstairs.

"It is for your safety." Huaien said. His voice s with no hint of playfulness. 

Xiaobao stares at Huaien for five WHOLE second, and his face glows red, he huffed. Do not know why but feels sudden anger inside of him. Controlling his emotions he just left Huaien.

Huaien can sense the anger bubbling inside Xiaobao, the scent that allures him so much turns sour. And it left the moment Xiaobao shuts the door loudly. 

He looks at the piece of paper he is holding, "YanLu" that is where he would meet the person. That is where he is now.

 But with Xiaobao around, eating away half of his thoughts, will he be able to accomplish his mission? 

Xiaobao looks at the bath tub, clutching the clean robes. Why is he angry? Huaien wants to protect him? Okay let him. He should be happy, but that doesn't mean that Hauien thinks of him as nothing but a weakling? He removed his clothes and hop into the warm water, the relaxing bath is the only thing keeping him sane. Oh my, how long have he been missing this?

Coming out of the bath, with fresh clothes now feels truly like heaven.

He walks into the room, only to find it completely empty. Huaien must have went outside? Because of his sudden mood swing?

Xiaobao now feels a little bit guilty, all Huaien was doing is for his good. But here he was, being angry like a child.

He opens the door, Ah-Sang standing with a tray full of food, "Young Master! Your Lord had ordered these for you." Ah-Sang sang joyfully. Placing the tray on the small dining table inside the room.

Xiaobao looks at the food items, just by looking at it he can see his these all are made with utmost care.

"My lord have ordered this?" It sounded unfamiliar but funny at the same time, Xiaobao can't help but flush at the thought of Huaien being his lord in reality. He do care about him, nonetheless. His sour mood turned bright just by this gesture.

"Yes Young Master, Young Lord even said 'prepare the meal with utmost care with very less spice'." Ah-Sang repeated the words that must have been spoken by Huaien.

Xiaobao felts sudden sensation in his heart, is this what they calls 'being courted'? He sits happily and starts eating the food that looks so much better then that stone of a bread.

Ah-Sang looks at the sleeping figure of Xiaobao. Even though looking at this pretty lad, he feels pity. But by the time he hands over the boy to two bulky man, the pity washed off as fast as it came.

"Your Young Lord must be going mad over your loss."

True to the word, running through the busy streets, a white man is going mad over someone.

Chapter Text

Huaien enters the secluded premises, his mind still wondering what wrong he did for the kunze to be so angry. The red broken lines on Xiaobao's face 

"Ha, I didn't thought I will really meet my favourite nephew here. Even though quite some time you took." An elderly man, must be in forties spoke. By the look of the well dressed man, one can say he belongs to some noble family. Of course not wrong, as the man is none other then Prince Shen, the younger brother of The Emperor positioned by heaven.

And it is not pretty hiden that the family of royal are known for attachments and breaking them apart like a piece of paper.

"Where is the pendant?" Huaien's voice cold. His eyes glaring at the older man, a seed of hatred flowing through his veins as the dagger of poison strikes on his heart.

"Walking around the forest with a young kunze have made you quite mannerless, Huaien." Prince Shen replied, strangely calm and annoyingly pleasant. Huaien can feels a wave of irritation forming inside of him, he have taken the forest path to keep himself hidden from his uncle's men only to be so reckless and found easily.

"Just state what you want." Huaien quickly straightened his face. It is not worthy enough to quarrel over something that already happened. He is here with a mission on his head.

"Tell me young man, do you really thing it is easy live worthlessly or die famously? I do not have the item you are looking for. But I do know where it is."

Huaien looks at Prince Shen, words that do not make sense. The pendant is something he have been looking for past four months and even made him pull into such grave situation only to be splashed water onto such madness.

"Do you really think I would believe you?" He asked, looking suspiciously. Prince Shen sighed, "I knew you won't. But I am telling truth. When have I ever lied to you?"

For some outsider they speak as if they know each other but Huaien's relation with outside world is not something that can be easily understood.

"I believe you should be more worried about that Young kunze you kidnapped. What is his name again? Jin something?" Huaien looks back at his uncle who seems to enjoy his confusion. How much does Prince Shen knows about Xiaobao. It is already a huge trouble for Huaien that he mistakenly kidnapped Xioabao now it is more trouble if they started getting whiff of it.

Huaien simply started walking out of the room, "I am sparing you for now. Do not dare to meddle with me." With that he left the older man alone in the room.

A young boy came out from a nearby closet, "How dare he talk of you in such a way, Uncle!?" The young boy looks not much older then sixteen, a golden crown adorning on his head indicating his royal status. The boy is more handsome, with sharp eyes like that of a hawk. Even though the boy is young and not fully presented yet, the smell of qianyuan is evident on him.

"Young Prince, it is better to be subjected humiliation from your enemy in times of battle then trying to strike at face." Prince Shen replied, drinking his favourite cup of tea. Watching the serene view of busy markete lazily.

The young Prince looks at his uncle, mind games. "And you talked about some kunze? Is it?"

"It is better to close your ears when needed then to speak more then told." Prince Shen's voice stern, his gaze continues on the view.

The young Prince looks back and forth at his uncle and the door. "I'll go and have some lunch." With that he too left his uncle alone.

'Foolish boys, they think they are better cause they are young forgetting these old men were once young too and now more experienced. Alas, Huaien you are too much like your mother. Born with great mind, doomed in love.'

Huaien walks into the inn he have been staying, opening the door to the room, only to find it empty. Every objects are rightfully on their own space. But no sign of the yellow bird chirping around. Had Xiaobao been more then angry?

Huaien find it ridiculous, he went down the stairs and asks one of the worker about Xiaobao, but they simply shook their head. 

Where could the young master have went to not be seen by anyone? He walks around the market asking people about the appearance of a yellow robes young master only to be dejected that none have seen or heard such.

He cannot understand, how could this happen? In a just a few moments everything have gone downhill. Huaien hurriedly goes back to the inn, ready to contact his men. He had distinctly ordered them to not follow him and Xiaobao to remain low. Making men follow him would mean be more riskier as it is. Now he feels stupid, he should have had Zhou Ying or You Ying on guard. How can he be so reckless?

He again walked inside the guest room, trying to find any clue. It is absolutely insane how he can lose this one person just because he removed his sight from Xiaobao.

Then he noticed a crippled paper lying on the ground just beside the dining table. He hurriedly opened the paper, it is a letter - a warning written to him.

Xiaobao opened his eyes with great difficulty, its as if thousands of insect prickling inside his head. A disgusting smell hits his nostril. Scrunching his face, he tried sitting up. But he found himself tied, his hands and legs bound so tightly that he can't even move properly.

'What the-?' Xiaobao tried shouting but soon found that a huge cloth stuffed inside his mouth so that he can't make noise.

Xiaobao panicked, looking here and there, the room, the most he can see looks like some store house. This one reminding him of the ones back at home, where often he would hide while playing with Jin Bao and Zhao Cai. The room's all window looks sealed, only a crack at roof is the source of light. In the dark and silent room, Xiaobao can hear his own rough breath and fastened heartbeat.

His eyes roamed around each and every corner, questions swarming over his mind. How? Why? What is happening to him? First he fell from a cliff, went in coma for four days and now when things started going normal in the hope of going back to the warmth of his home, only to be in this situation?

Suddenly the door opened, Xiaobao tightly shut his eyes, the light from outside blinding him after staying in dark for a long time.

"Ah, you are awake! I was getting concerned that you would be sleeping like a pig." A woman's voice, sharp like blade. She spoke in a arrogant way. Xiaobao slowly opened his eyes, fixing his eyes on the woman who dared to call him a pig.

"Mmph! Umph!" Xiaobao made noises in anger. Squirming his bounded body. The woman only stared at him, mockingly laughing at the futile attempt, "Tch,Tch, how foolish can you be!" The woman approached Xiaobao and roughly yanked off the cloth. Xiaobao gasped, taking deep breath. His jaw hurting painfully from being gagged which he wonders for how many hours. "You- what do you want?" Xiaobao maybe a sheltered kunze under protection of his watchful parents but he is also someone brave enough to voice his opinion and fight for righteousness. 

"Oh, we don't want anything from you pretty boy. It's your qianyuan who have been making things hard for us." The woman smilled, but it wasn't sweet at all. Her voice dripping venom at the mention of Huaien. Xiaobao wonders what have the angelic qianyuan did to piss off such poisonous woman.

"Huaien? What do you mean?" Xiaobao asks, confusion fusing him. The woman looks sharply, "He have been a real pain on my ass, but don't worry I won't kill you off or anything like that-if you don't piss me-but to be fair, I could just sell you off to some rich noble, what do you say?" She says, nonchalantly as if Xiaobao doesn't even exist in front of her.

Xiaobao gulps, she could kill him. Or worse sell him somewhere. He do not think that whatever she speaks is a joke, she can do this seeing the lascivious clothes she wears and the sharp sword hanging from her waist. All people who blends with fight is not something to be taken lightly as. That is what Xiaobao believes.

The woman sighs, the suspicious looking from Xiaobao irritates her. "Don't worry as long as that Huaien of yours is obedient I won't do anything." She said, and walked off from the room without caring to hear from Xiaobao or even looking back at him.

Xiaobao once again left in the dark room, he wonders what type of man Huaien is and why is it him in this mess.

Huaien walked on the forest path, the address written on the piece of paper. His eyes cold as ever, anger seething inside his heart. If it was any other person he would have just ignored all of this, but this is about Xiaobao, despite not liking the kunze, he is his mission. If he loses Xiaobao that means he loses the chance to get into Jin Manor. If he wasn't this reckless- now is not the moment to wonder about possibilities, all his focus should now on rescuing Xiaobao and get away from this place as fast as he can and contact his subordinates. 

If his father learned of this - he would be punished severely, such mistakes are not acceptable in Tong Sect.

Soon Huaien found himself in front of a large courtyard, in the middle of the forest there lies a mansion, as big as the Palace of Southern Prince. Despite all this, it is hidden brilliantly under the eyes of locals. Two guards walked towards Huaien, and he gripped his sword tightly. To always be aware of surrounding is one of the foremost rule of warrior.

The two guards look at Huaien, "Madam Li have been waiting for you." And gestured him towards the entrance.

Huaien looks at the big gates, Madam Li, someone whom he once picked a fight just to satisfy his own father. And thus a series of rat-mouse game have been going on. Despite the fact that Huaien doesn't really wish to have anything to do with Madam Li, yet his fate is always tied down fighting her, he growled inwardly, annoyed by this lame trick.

He walked inside, the gate behind him shuts off with a loud bang. Is this it? Huaien found himself surrounded, a young woman, barely on her twenties, walks down the long stairs, her eyes sharp and thin red lips smiling. Her tall stature gives off an aura of dominance.

"Welcome, Zheng Huaien." A mocking tone for sure.

"Li Hua." Huaien's voice is cold, lacking any emotions.

Chapter Text

Huaien looks around, thirty men surrounds him in a circle. Despite none of them holds any weapon right now, the impending danger is something that anyone can feel. He steady his breath, a cold glare adorns the handsome face. He looks at Li Hua, she smiles sweetly but her eyes tells another story.

"My,my, so it is true that the cold prince is finally fond of something now?" Her voice sharp, thrilling. She stares at Huaien, taking on each minute change going through him. Huaien takes a deep shallow breath, "Where is Xiaobao?" He rests his hand on the sword hilt, the enemies are close. If he swiftly twirl himself, he can atleast cut four heads. And if lucky enough to be quick, he can push the two men behind him and work on a clear way to get out of the circle. But it is difficult. To move in such a phase without breaking a fight with Li Hua who is known to pull tricks under sleeves. Dirty work but he can't blame her, he is always ready to pull his own strings to clear a way if needed.

The only thing is, if he could distract - "Oi Huaien, don't you know it is rude to ignore a pretty lady?" She flutters her long eye lash, sighing dramatically. How rude of the boy to ignore the presence of a beauty, if Huaien wasn't an ounce of pretty-ness, she would have made him kneel and beg for mercy. Heaven is cruel to bestow a lovely face on such a man.

"It is rude to not answer a question, Li Hua." Huaien replies, his voice cold. The tension between them high, and the men around them positioned themselves in offensive state. They knows and heard about the infamous Zheng Huaien, and they are not uet ready to risk their all to see this famous person in action.

Li Hua laughs loudly, "Oh Budha! Huaien we have known each other for years now, must you be so angry at some silly play?"

"I am asking, where is Xiaobao?" Huaien ignores the petty laughs and the mocking look Li Hua gives, his voice firm and demanding. Patience running slow through his veins, right now all he wants is to scoop Xiaobao in his arms and just be away from this forsaken place.

"For an young boy like you, you are quite demanding don't you think?" But there was no reply, Huaien have not came here to talk, "Well, very well, let's do the reason you came here for." With that saying, Li Hua threw a knife at Huaien. He jumped and took out his sword, the steels clashed. A tinkling sound, then joined the roars of men launched on Huaien.

Xiaobao can feel a sharp pain crossing all over his body. For the whole time he knows, he have been sitting in this position. His legs bound tightly with his upper body, the only thing he can do is roll over if not being bound by the pole too. There is a small hole on the roof, the only source of light. But even the light is soon fading away.

'Must be its evening, the sun is setting? How long have I been here tied like this?' Xiaobao wonders, his mouth dry and jaw hurting. The cloth inside his mouth have became damp and sticky. He can feel the corner of his mouth itching, maybe from the roughness of the cloth. Why is he suffering like this?

He remembers the days of his time back at home, painless and enjoying. If there is even a small scratch, his mother and father would fuss over and run to a doctor to check on him. At times he would feel annoyed but right now he is missing the comfort of the warmth that his parents provided.

Soon the almond eyes of the young master filles with tears, slipping through his red cheeks. He wish to cry loudly, calls his parents and tells him how sorry he is. He shouldn't have left home on that day.

Finally after sniffing for a long term, the lights of the room fades away, living Xiaobao in complete dark.

A shiver ran through him, his imagination took over, Xiaobao have never been scares of dark as he have never encountered it. Even when he would fall asleep, his confidants would leave some candles, but now he fears this dark.

Xiaobao's stomach growl. He is so hungry and thirsty, for so long he have been tied, Xiaobao have not felt such tiredness ever. Even walking in forest with Huaien was less tiring then tied up. Apparently, Huaien would give him foods time to time and even won't get angry for resting so much. Huaien have been nothing but so caring to him, and look at him, the first day they reach to a civilization he gets kidnapped. He just hopes Huaien would come and save him.

Suddenly the door opened, two bulky men entered the room, "Ah! Look the pretty young master is so tired up!" One of the man said, snickering. The other one laughed, but didn't made any remark.

The one who spoke is holding a tray, a small bowl of what looks like rice and a small glass of water. The young master who have lived in luxury, just by seeing a grain of white rice can feel his mouth watering. "Hey, pretty master, are you hungry?" Even though the man spoke blatantly, his eyes roamed all over the body of Xiaobao. Xiaobao tensed up, he can feel something is off with this man.

His knowledge about the world may be limited, but he knows the look of a disgusting evil person. Xiaobao keeps himself calm despite his heart beating so fast, he almost thought it will come out.

"Zhou-ge, remember no accident." The quite one spoke. Despite warning his senior, he himself looks at Xiaobao filled with lust.

"Damn you Han-Di! It's been so long since we had a chance to even relive ourself because of all these missions," Zhou putting the tray on a crate, "look at this food, served right on our plate."

Luo stands still, probably contemplating. While he agrees with Zhou but he is also afraid of his terrible boss' anger. If she learns that they have touched their supposed 'prisoner', maybe he will not have his head on his neck.

***(SKIP IF YOU WANT)***

Zhou moved swiftly in front of Xiaobao, caressing the red cheeks, "Ai Ai, it must hurt a lot isn't it, pretty lad? Do you want gege to take it off?" Just by a single touch, Xiaobao almost felt vomiting. It feels so disgusting, with the hideous man looming over his small frail body. He quickly struggles, shaking his head but it was all futile and made the older man laughed at the antic.

"Haha! Look at this pretty thing Luo-di! Isn't he so cute?" Zhou holds Xiaobao's face firmly and showing it to Luo. Under the white moonlight, Xiaobao's tear streaked face with the red blooming on cheeks looks ethereal. Luo gulped, he is proud of his own sexual control but right now, faced with such a fertile kunze together with his own pent up mood. He almost felt swaying under the sweet scent of terror.

He moved closer, facing too close to the kunze, Xiaobao can almost smell the lust-stricken scent looming over him. He have heard of these, it's a scent that a qianyuan releases when copulation another kunze. But faced with the situation right now, he is scared. He feels like dying, the heavy dominating scent taking hold of him. Making him lightheaded, 'Please Buddha, A'niang, A'die, Su Yin..... Huaien! Save me!' Bubbles erupt inside of him, more tears falling from the sweet almond eyes.

Zhou carried the kunze's soft cheek, his another hand roaming around the body. The neck, scratching the scent gland and finally resting upon the soft waist which looks just developed. The sweet kunze is not yet mated, and too young. That means not touched - a virgin that he would love to break apart.

Luo feels his desire taking over, he moved his face closer, removing the dirty cloth out from the boy, it didn't take more then a second for Xiaobao to shout, "No! ngh H-Help! Don't please stop!" Xiaobao shouted in between his cries, his whole body stiff from the constant light touch. He wants to hide somewhere, safe and comfort. He wants to go back home, and never come out. He wants to leave! He wants his mother and father. Their warmth and secure.

Luo slapped Xiaobao, "Hey, we are being gentle so stop shouting or do you want to die?" He threatened, while it did made Xiaobao quite because of the already exhaustion of being tied up and his mouth dried from lack of water. The earlier shout made his mouth painful, he can feel his throat tearing up.

"Please, don't do this- stop it..." Xiaobao says meekly, he begs. He is hating every moment of this.

"Hmm, just be quite and gege will be gentle, hmm?" Zhou said, sucking at his collarbone. Oh sweet lord! This kunze is delicious then any sweets on market.

Luo laughed at his ge's antic, and he then kissed the boy's soft cheeks. Oh so soft! Softer then any silk. Softer then any whores outside. "Hmm just like this, be our good boy and I'll-"

***(FINISHED)***

The next moment Xiaobao opened his eyes, there was simply nothing but red blood. In the middle of the room, the moonlight reflected on a steel sword. Xiaobao looks above, "H-Huaien!" There he stood, the golden eyes burning like that of the sun. Luo's head rolled over to somewhere while the decapitated body lies just across Xiaobao.

Zhou was slammed to the wall, Huaien coldly looks at him. How dare they touch Xiaobao with their dirty being? He moved in a speed of a hawk, swiftly moving his sword. It pierced right through Zhou, and then cut him half.

For some moments Huaien simply stands there, looking at the gruesome dead body. He can still feel anger seeping through him. The moment he entered the barn, he simply felt intense anger and hatred, something he have never felt. Even right now, all he wish to do is go on murdering spree, he wish to take out each and every eyeballs that have seen Xiaobao, cut all those fingers that have touched Xiaobao and even kill anyone who think of Xiaobao. He feels possessiveness, and most of all anger towards anyone who dares to harm Xiaobao. 

He should have just killed them, no, he should have tortured them. Make them regret of ever living. He should have - sniff

Huaien looks back, at Xiaobao whose dress disheveled because of the harassment. The yellow robes now draped in red blood. His bear loosely holding themselves.

"Huaien..." Xiaobao whispered, lightly. His voice too tired because of the dryness. And this simple voice seems to wake Huaien from his slumber. Huaien quickly cuts the rope, and take Xiaobao in his arms. Xiaobao doesn't mutter a word, simply lays his head on the warm shoulder of Huaien, to tired from all these things.

Despite seeing the most brutal thing ever, Xiaobao simply feels no regret or guilt. He is only relieved of being saved by Huaien and feeling the comfort in the warmth of Hauien.

His eyes stings, the tears dried over his red cheeks. He closes his eyes, too exhausted to think anything, he wish to wake up under the silk blankets and to the happy faces of Jin Bao and Zhou Cai. To the scolding of his parents and bickering of his sister. He wants nothing for now, just to go back home.

He thinks of Huaien, the man who gracefully kills those who made him suffer. And he wants to remain here, beside Huaien. Who protects him despite not knowing him.

Huaien walks out of the barn. Carefull to not wake Xiaobao up, and only moving when his breath went normal. His own body aches, numerous cuts all over his back. But his mind only cares about keeping Xiaobao safe and secure. He moves into the jungle. He felt the arms surrounding his tightening, and the warm body snuggling close.

Huaien do not known what he feels and what he is currently doing, Xiaobao is his mission that he must fulfilled.

But along the way, it looks like Huaien had made decisions without him understanding.

Li Hua throws the cup at a mirror, "What do you mean by he escape!?" Her voice filled with anger. 

"Y-Your Highness, i-" "Your Highness, there is a letter from his majesty!" A servants walks in, with a letter which he presents to Li Hua.

Li Hua quickly opens the letter and smilled bitterly, "Huh? Looks like uncle is missing me too much." She laughed at her own joke. Looking at her own scarred face from the broken pieces of glasses. She digs her nail where the slash of the sword hit her earlier, "This time you and your father will go down forever, Huaien!" Her words came out of hatred and poisonous. A promise made to herself.

"Prepare a carriage, we are going to the capital!" Li Hua orders her servants. 

This will be the end!

Chapter Text

Huaien puts Xiaobao on the bed. Escaping Li Hua was quite troubling, but- he clenched his hand. Xiaobao fallen into deep slumber a long time ago before they have reached to a safe place.

The hut is small, made only for hiding purpose, and only few people know of this location, Huaien go outside of the hut leaving Xiaobao to his sleep. Under the dim candle light, Xiaobao's features looks so peaceful, something that Huaien unknowingly misses. The whole day have been full of surprises, and he can see that Xiaobao have been suffered under the hands of cruel reality. Huaien moves the black locks from Xiaobao's face, the soft red plump lips looks swollen from all the bitings and a red shade under those eye lashes, probably from all the crying. After a long stare, Huaien finally removes his eyes from the kunze, a dull ache on his heart, it made him irritated for some reasons. Thinking of Xiaobao being touched or even near anyone other then him made him annoyed.

What is this feeling? Huaien have never associated himself with any kunze or zhongyong, so now just by merely remaining with Xiaobao makes him feel such traitorous things.

He hurriedly stood up, and walked outside. Fresh air hitting him, calming himself. A punch landed on one of the tree trunk, Huaien watch as blood seeps through his knuckles. Why is he feeling this intense anger? It is as if the whole world is taking a sadistic revenge on him, making him feel this.

Shaking his head, he wipes the sweats forming on his forehead. He have been running since the day, and familiar tireness finally overwhelming him. Huaien closes his eyes, the silence around the forest too eerie for him. The soft cool breeze waves the long black hair, as he listens the leaves rustling. A moment of peace, he thought. 

It have been so long since he have experienced this, a memory reminds him this peace, something from far off into his childhood. What was it? He doesn't quite remember but he is sure he had felt this same tranquility then, surrounded by a scent of peach.

Huaien walks through the forest path, a test that his father is taking on him. Wearing a wolf mask, the six year old child have been roaming around the forest path for the past few hours. The sharp knife holds tightly on the small hand, Huaien looks around. An exist, a sign, anything that will get him outside of this wretched place.

Before he could take anymore step, a high-pitched cry echoes through the silent dark forest. The golden eyes roams around every corner, walking through the long bushes, he came face to face with another kid - the bright yellow robe being contrast to the dark surrounding. 

"Wh-Who is there?" The child asked, but Huaien merely stared at him.

The kid yelped upon seeing Huaien, fears runs through his face, something he have only seen on the faces of those animals as they get stabbed to death. Some that he have quite seen closely.

Huaien simply stares, wondering where this child comes from. He have rarely seen anyone at the same age as him, and rarely ever someone so coward. A sour smell soon engulfs the scene, Huaien raises his hand, the knife shining under the sunlight that reflects on it.

"Ahhhhhh!"

"Ahhhhh!" Huaien opens his eyes in shock, storming inside the small hut he sees Xiaobao crying - shouting hysterically. Xiaobao's entire body shivers, as his eyes are shut tightly. He mumbles, calling out to his parents. Huaien have never seen someone so frail right now, scared to no extent.

Huaien quickly moves towards Xiaobao, but just when he touched Xiaobao, he jerked back. Opening his eyes, Xiaobao stared at Huaien, big almond eyes in complete shock and fear. And then again fat tears escaped those pretty eyes, he back himself to a corner.

Huaien do not truly know what to do, Xiaobao have been crying non-stop and all he can do is stare like a dead person with no idea.

Huaien raises his hand and place it on the head of Xiaobao, who flinches upon contact but this time didn't reject the touch. It is awkerd for Huaien, he have never been under such circumstances but he do not want to see the young kunze crying. For some reason, those tears pinches his heart in a wrong way.

"Xiaobao." Huaien calls, but Xiaobao continues to cry. With lots of thinking, Huaien finally made his mind. Leaning towards the young master, he hugs him.

It brought shock to Xiaobao, the cries dying down. He feels himself being engulfed by the warmth of Huaien's, the smell of rain and ashes hits his nostrils. Weirdly enough, comforting.

Xiaobao rests his head on the sharp shoulders of Huaien, closing his eyes as he feels the hand on his head caressing him. It almost reminded him of his mother if not the stiffness holding inside of Huaien. It made him chuckled a little, despite all the courage as a warrior he shows outside, Huaien is afterall not really good at comforting.

"You don't have to force yourself." Xioabao whispers in low voice, even though he is enjoying the warm body, he also doesn't want to force Huaien such intimacy.

Huaien moves his head, both the almond and golden pair of eyes looks at each other. Huaien finds Xiaobao amusing, sudden curiosity picks him. Normally, people would run away from him after witnessing such gruesome things, yet Xiaobao speaks nonchalantly; as if- as if this is alright, and it made Huaien less awkerd.

"Are you alright?" Huaien asks, truth to be spoken, he is enjoying Xiaobao close to him. Having Xiaobao in his arms, the peach blossom scent relaxing him. His hand softly moves between the softest hair he have known, Xiaoabao's entire self is nothing but like a soft silk. Warm and comforting.

"It's all right." Xiaoabo replies, he too now relaxed, hiding his face under the white robes of Huaien.

The familiar scent again drifting Xiaobao off to sleep. After some moments, Huaien hears light snoring from Xiaobao, unknowingly he smiles softly. Putting the young master on the bed, there was a sudden urge to caress him.

Huaien lays besides him, not daring to remove his arms around Xiaobao neither did Xiaobao soften his clutching onto Huaien's robes.

Both the men entangled with each other, bounded in a red string.

Amongst the dark bushes, Xiaobao saw a child with wolf mask walking out of it. Those golden eyes shines brighter then the sun, Xiaobao have never seen one like this. After the initial fear, scent of rain and ashes, tantalising and mysterious. Xiaobao sits there, frozen and the boy in front of him looks at him like some unfamiliar treasure.

"Wh-who are you?" Xiaobao's voice come off small and fearful. His entire self shivers, the cold wind brushing his hairpins which makes a 'jingle' sound.

The boy didn't reply, simply takes out his knife and pointed it towards Xiaobao. The sliver gleam reflected on the almond eyes.

Xiaobao opens his eyes, the strange dream reoccurring but this time it was - well he cannot explain his feelings. It is as if he is afraid to know the truth but also delight to meet this strange child from his dream.

While winter is still few weeks away, Xiaobao still shivers under the soft warm blanket, snuggling close to the warm body which feels so good.

Xiaobao looks up when he feels warm breath on his head, the view almost makes him hypnotised. 

The long nose and sharp eyebrows. The thin pinkish lips and a face that can rival the moon. Xiaobao sighed, not understand the words to use to explain how magnificent Huaien looks.

While he is shocked to find himself entangled so close to Huaien, but he also cannot help but sigh in satisfaction. He truly wish to hold Huaien so close, hold him tightly so he wouldn't go away. For some reason, having Huaien so close makes him forget about any bad happening. As if the mere existence is enough to make Xiaobao forget about any worse things.

Remembering last night and how Huaien had held him in his arms, and caressed him. Xiaobao blushed, hiding his face under his palm. The tips of his ear now burning red - oh buddha! How daring of him to be caressed by some unknown man and find pleasure on it.

What would his parents say?! His father would most definitely ground him! And his mother- oh my she would make him kneel on the temple ground for seventy years!

But- who would say that? Well he ain't saying something like this! Hmph! This is his secret, Xiaobao mutters under his breath. He looks up at Huaien again, only to find golden orbs staring back at him.

"Ack!" Xiaobao shouted, backing away but Huaien holds him, not letting him move an inch. Their face too close for their own sake. One wrong move and their lips may touch- will it be a kiss then? Xiaobao wonders, his eyes crossing onto those pinkish lips. He have always wanted to be kissed, will it be passionate? Will he be left breathless like in the books they say? How will Huaien look- flushed red, huffing or angry? 

"Are you alright?" The voice of Huaien breaks Xiaobao from his indecent thoughts, a hint of concern that seemingly made Xiaobao have some weird tingling under his stomach.

"Y-yeah, alright." Xiaobao said, almost a breathless whisper.

"Well, then.... I will leave now." After saying that Huaien leaped up from the bed and left in a hurry. So fast, almost like wind.

Xiaobao stares at the empty side which is yet to cold down, already missing the warmth that was present there. He is fine but what was wrong with Huaien? His expression was identical to some dumbfounded person.

Huaien looks at his lower body- his face burning red. Everything was normal so why did- no first of all what is happening? He knew Xiaobao was awake and watching him intently but the moment he opened his eyes and saw him, his entire self froze. Those big wide eyes and puffy cheeks. They delicious red lips- no what is he even thinking!

It is true- these kunzes they are some vixen!

Chapter Text

Su Yin walks towards a large mansion, by the looks of it one could say that this is a place of luxury. No wonder it is, as it is the residence of the Crown Prince of ZongZheng empire!

The humongous gates opening makes loud sound, amd it never fails to irritate Su Yin for some reason. The familiar guard looks at him, bowing slightly.

"Prince Su Yin, welcome to the Residence." The chief eunuch speaks up. The older man have been serving the crown Prince since the day he was born. Su Yin remembers him from the memories of childhood. Those were hsi carefree days passesld away.

"Eunuch Han, its been a long time." Su Yin speaks, his voice contains strains of nostalgia. The older man simply smiles back, "Indeed Your Highness. Crown Prince is waiting for you." With that, showed him the path to main hall where the Crown Prince takes guests.

Walking through the familiar gates, it's truly brings back lots of memories. The Crown Prince and he have been good friend. Actually, Su Yin's grandmother is the late Emperor's only sister, thus Su Yin's grandfather was granted the title of Prince Consort, but Su Yin's grandmother passed away during childbirth and the Prince Consort never remarried. To fulfill the dying princess' wish, the title of King of Hansol was given to Su Yin's father and thus also giving Su Yin the title 'Prince'.

After the late Emperor's death, Su Yin's father was afraid that all the wealth will be taken away by the current Emperor, but because of years of friendship between the two man, and honouring the Heavenly father's wish, the title was not taken back.

Realising back, if it wasn't because of his father forcing him to go to the capital and befriend the Crown Prince, he wouldn't have meet Xiaobao.

"Su'Ge!" A young voice called Su Yin out of his thoughts. Su Yun looked back and found himself engulfed in warm hug. The sweet scent of Cedarwood hits his nose. Su Yin smilled softly, "Your Royal Highness, you should not."

ZongZheng Shaoyu, the Crown Prince, pouts, "Su'Ge how many time have I said, you must call me by my name!" Even though the crown Prince have already reached maturity but in front of Su Yin, he always acts like a child. Just like when they were kids.

Su Yin sighs, "Shaoyu, why have you called me so suddenly?" It's been more than a week since the disappearance of Xiaobao, even though he have sent men around to look for, but the constant anxiety of what may have happened to Xiaobao stills him awake even at night.

"Su'Ge , I have heard that you are looking for a certain kunze?" Shaoyu asked, relasing Su Yin from his arms reluctantly, Su Yin nods. The letter that was sent to him was quite unusual, it was from ZongZheng Yunlian, the leader of Tong Sect and the enemy of ZongZheng empire.

While it is true that Yunlian is brother of the Emperor, he had always hold animosity towards the Emperor and tried assassinating him many times. He had also established a rebel group and made a huge underground empire against the ZongZheng Emperor.

Finding a letter from such person, he had originally thought of reporting to the Emperor, but it would be too risky to directly tell Emperor, thus he have planned to meet the Crown Prince to pass the message.

But hearing about Xiaobao, words must have flew over to get the attention of the Royal Blood.

"Shaoyu, do you know anything?" For an instance Su Yin saw some unexplainable expression on Shaoyu, which vanished instantly.

"I may. I have got some news from my underlings." Shaoyu replies, his face expressionless, completely unlike of the person just few seconds ago.

Su Yin's eagerness is written all over his face, "Tell me everything you know." A clue, even a small clue is enough to get to Xiaobao.

Shaoyu smiled slightly, 'But before that, you have to do me a favor." 

Su Yin should have known long before to not gamble with Royal bloods. As his father had told.

Xiaobao walked behind Huaien, looking at the broad and sharp shoulders. Since morning Huaien have been acting weird. Avoiding him like a plague. Even during breakfast, Huaien didn't looked up at him!

While he shouldn't feel like this, he is feeling annoyed. On top of that walking through this forest path with no horse is a real pain. Because of the last night fight, Huaien have to leave the horse behind or else they could have been tracked down.

Looking at the man ahead, Xiaobao thought of last night. Those intimate moment that they shared, it made him blush heavily. Closing his eyes and shaking his head, trying to forget those insane memories. But the way Huaien held him, and the way he got angry when those bastards tried to touch him. It made his stomach flutter, as if thousands of butterfly are playing.

Xiaobao opened his eyes and looked at the bright sky, 'What am I even thinking! Huaien simply saved me, it-it's not as if he-he-he l-l-lo-!' Suddenly he crashed onto Huaien who swiftly holds his waist tightly.

"Are you okay?" The deep voice rang through Xiaobao's ears. They are close, too close. Xiaobao can faintly smell the scent of the Qianyuan. And then his eyes met with the golden one.

It is as if the entire world stopped moving, there is only the faint sound of their own breathing and birds singing. For a moment Xiaobao thought of leaning forward and kissing those tempting lips.

"Umm.. I am fine. Sorry." Xiaobao says, quickly moving away from Huaien. 

What is wrong with him! Xiaobao knows that Huaien is beautiful, too beautiful to be called a human and maybe he is attracted to him a little bit? But to be thinking about kissing him!? How could he!?

While Xiaobao is quick on rambling about his distress, Huaien finds his mind blank. There is no thought, what could he even think? This is his first time to ever be close to someone, and he is totally not liking it.

"We should hurry. The sun will go down soon." Huaien says, avoiding any contact with Xiaobao.

While Xiaobao is quite flustered himself, but watching Huaien all embarrassed is making him laugh. For all the time he have spent with the Qianyuan, Huaien have always kept his distance and talked as much is needed. At first, Xiaobao found it amusing then irritating and now comforting.

Weird isn't it? A person who cannot stop his mouth to move, Xiaobao have always hated silence. It always makes him suffocating, reminding him of terrible fights or devastating funerals but with Huaien, it is as natural as him to smile. Huaien's silence is of understanding.

It was at night that they finally reached another city. The previous one, it was already something Xiaobao wish to forget and he hope that nothing happens here.

His feets are already aching, and he is already convinced of the blisters under his feet. He have never walked so much, not even at his own home. "Huaien, let's get a room and just sleep. I am do tired." Xiaobao whined, his eyes begging to Huaien.

Few passerby looked at them, "Oh my, is your husband tiring you?" An old lady teased Xiaobao who was standing nearby. Xiaobao looks back, his face flushed. It is not new that strangers often associate Xiaobao and Huaien as young married couple who have ran away from their household to pursue love.

"Uhh... hehe." Xiaobao truly do not know how to reply such comments. Suddenly Huaien holds his hand. Taking him away from the crowds. Ever since the incident, Huaien have been quite protective of Xiaobao, which he is really enjoying.

Reaching to an Inn, Xiaobao sighed. Finally he could rest. Huaien did all the talk with the innmaster and then gave Xiaobao a token. Entering the room, Xiaobao plopped onto the soft bed. Oh! How much he have missed this!

"Shouldn't you wash yourself first?" Huaien asked, eyeing at the kunze who just laid onto the bed lazily. 

"Mmm... I will, just a minute." Xiaobao says, sighing. Closing his eyes as he feels the soft futon underneath.

"Dinner will be here after sometime." Huaien says. Sitting beside Xiaobao, looking at him.

Xiaobao opened his eyes when he felt a long stare on him, "What?"

"I have never seen someone like you." Huaien replies, chuckling. Xiaobao stares back, wide almond eyes looking at Huaien. He cannot believe his own eyes, The Huaien smiling. It is as if sun have set on east. No no, this cannot be Huaien. Must be some doppelganger, posing as Huaien.

"Who are you?" Xiaobao sits up, his eyes looking suspiciously at Huaien. Pointing his finger at Huaien accusingly, "What have you done to Huaien?"

Huaien frowned, confused of Xiaobao's sudden change of tone. "I am Huaien. What do you mean?"

"No, Huaien have never smiled at me like that. How can you be Huaien?"

"Do you not like me smiling?"

Xiaobao stares at Huaien, for some reason Huaien looks rather sad. "W-well it's not like that... anyway I am going to wash myself!" With that saying, Xiaobao jumped from the bed and runs straight to bath.

Huaien is rather confused, why is Xiaobao acting this way. He had heard somewhere that kunzes love those qianyuans who smiles more.

Is it that Xiaobao do not like his smile? Or he doesn't look good smiling? Wait! Why does he want Xiaobao to like his smile?

Before he could think more, sound of a cuckoo echoed in the room. Huaien frowned, 'Why is father calling me now?'