Work Text:
Shen Qingqiu is dead.
Shen Qingqiu has been dead for years, yet that did not stop the constant battles made in his name, honor, and most of all for his soulless body. Day after day, the bells of Huanhua palace chimes, warning of an intruder; an intruder that was now integrated into their daily lives. Five years has passed yet today is no different.
Liu Qingge easily broke past their palace defenses, causing more damage to the torn down entrance that no one really put any effort into fixing anymore. After breaking in for the past five years, it seemed like second nature for Liu Qingge to knock out the guards and tear down whatever resemblance of the palace entrance that was left.
Though it barely took him any effort to break in, he knew waiting for him inside would not be an easy battle. After all his opponent is Luo Binghe. Even so, Liu Qingge thinks he must try harder; he was not one to back down in a fight against someone stronger than him. He must fight with more than his usual strength, even if it means breaking all of the bones in his body, losing all of his blood, and perhaps even his life. With his last breath, at least he could say it was for a good cause.
Liu Qingge, the Bai Zhan Peak War God is stubborn, tenacious, and exceedingly loyal to those he cares about. Although Shen Qingqiu has long been gone, Liu Qingge could only feel at ease if he could bring back Shen Qingqiu's corpse from Shen Qingqiu's traitorous, annoyingly charming, but awfully annoying disciple. Liu Qingge wishes to give Shen Qingqiu a proper burial in the Cang Qiong grave with all of the fallen peak lords of the past. Liu Qingge thinks only then will Shen Qingqiu be able to rest in peace.
"Liu Shishu, you're really stubborn," Luo Binghe tsked, strolling outside the hall that was separating them in a relaxed manner. "Liu Shishu has caused so much damaged to Huanhua property and hasn't offered to pay any type of compensation. Shouldn't Liu Shishu stay here permanantly by supervising the palace maintenance as compensation?"
Liu Qingge only glared at him in response. Luo Binghe sighed in lament, though not surprised to be rejected once again. It was not his fault his Shishu was too stubborn to appreciate a good offer.
Luo Binghe tsked again, casually taking a bite of a strange high class pastry with a hole in the middle that Shen Qingqiu loved when he was alive, yet Liu Qingge never knew of or bothered to learn the name of. Liu Qingge's eyes glazed with melancholy thinking about his Shen Shixiong.
"Would Liu Shishu like to take a bite?" Luo Binghe smirked, looking infuriatingly handsome. He pushed the remaining pastry against Liu Qingge's lips.
Liu Qingge narrowed his eyes, face flushing red. He wordlessly knocked the pastry away and drew out Cheng Luan, slashing right at Luo Binghe without warning. He was here for Shen Qingqiu's body and he cannot keep getting distracted by Luo Binghe.
"Liu Shishu is always so impatient." Luo Binghe says, brushing the crumbs of the pastry from the corner of his mouth and licking it. "Such a waste of a good pastry," Luo Binghe sighed yet again, a bit mournful while still managing to graciously dodge the wild yet precise attacks from Liu Qingge.
"Speak less and fight seriously." Liu Qingge mercilessly swung his sword towards Luo Binghe in annoyance. "Give Shen Qingqiu's body back to Cang Qiong Sect!"
"Liu Shishu, this disciple is quite sad to hear that. Did Liu Shishu not come to visit Binghe because he misses him?" Luo Binghe asked.
"Who misses you?" Liu Qingge flushed red again.
"No need to get so worked up Liu Shishu," Luo Binghe chuckled. "But I do admit it's a cute look on you."
"Luo! Bing! He!" Liu Qingge seethed, wildly slashing at Luo Binghe.
"Yes, Liu Shishu?" Luo Binghe sang, dancing around the blade.
"Can you take this seriously?" Liu Qingge complained.
"I am," Luo Binghe said rather seriously. "I won't let anyone take away Shizun's body. Not even you." Luo Binghe said coldly.
"Will you not let him rest in peace even in his death?!"
"He will live once again!"
"That's impossible!"
"I said I will bring him back! Can't you trust me?!"
"Luo Binghe... I've told you many times it won't work."
"It's better than not trying!" Luo Binghe snapped.
"Y-you..." A flash of hurt reflected in Liu Qingge's eyes. "You're crazy..." Liu Qingge whispered, dashing out the palace before Luo Binghe could respond.
Liu Qingge does not appear the next day, and the day after that. A week passed and he still did not appear. The whole Huanhua palace was thrown into a midst of confusion. Luo Binghe's mood had gotten worst over the past few days. Throughout the past few years, he had found himself caring for his Liu Shishu as much as he had for his Shizun. He had gotten used to Liu Qingge's presence; sparring and teasing him became the highlight of his day. He felt guilty for what he had last said to his Liu Shishu and he couldn't even apologize since his Liu Shishu refused to show up. Luo Binghe felt like he would burn everything in front of him if his Liu Shishu didn't show up soon.
"Junshang, should I bring that human's head for you?" Sha Hualing asked.
"Get out!" Luo Binghe snarled.
Moments later Mobei-Jun appeared before them through a portal. In his arms was a deathly pale Liu Qingge, ferociously bleeding from a rather deep wound near his heart.
"Junshang, he requested to see you." Mobei-Jun said, placing him down on the floor.
"Liu Shishu?!" Luo Binghe stumbled over, cradling Qingge's body in his arms.
"L-luo Binghe... I have a request." Liu Qingge said. "I won't ask you to bury him with me... But... I will have no regrets if you can bury me with this fan," Liu Qingge uttered, choking out a few mouthfuls of blood. "And t-tell Mingyan not to grieve for me."
"Liu Shishu, you will be okay." Luo Binghe whispered, trembling.
Liu Qingge knew he had no other chance to do this again so he weakly took off his hair crown and gave it to Luo Binghe. "Luo Binghe... It's been with me for years. It's strong and should be enough to hold your thick and rowdy hair." Liu Qingge said, with a rare show of affection. "You made these past five years worthwhile." Liu Qingge's eyes fluttered, threatening to close.
"Don't you dare fall asleep! Liu Shishu!" Luo Binghe cried, clutching on to the hair crown.
"Binghe, promise me..." Liu Qingge gasped weakly, closing his eyes.
"Liu Shishu?" Luo Binghe whispered.
There was no response. Luo Binghe's heart collapsed. His Shizun had died in front of him already, he couldn't let his Liu Shishu die too. His Liu Shishu was the one who bothered him everyday, the one that his Shizun had cherished, and the one that Luo Binghe had come to cherish during the past five years. Even if all they did was fight, it was all that made Luo Binghe feel truly alive.
"Liu Shishu!" Luo Binghe screamed. "If you sleep, what am I supposed to do? What am I supposed to do without you?"
"Junshang... He still has a breathe of life left," Mobei-Jun commented. "Perhaps your blood can help."
"My blood?" Luo Binghe asked, hope rising. "Yes, my blood can save you. I've already lost Shizun, I can't lose you too..." Luo Binghe sliced open his wrist and forced his blood down Liu Qingge's throat. "Liu Shishu, don't blame me." Luo Binghe gently wiped bood away from the corner of Liu Qingge's lips. Luo Binghe concentrated on his blood and spiritual energy to heal Liu Qingge. The wounds on Liu Qingge's body stopped bleeding, but did not fade. Liu Qingge was still deathly pale and barely breathing.
Luo Binghe took Liu Qingge into his arms and burst into the infirmary. He placed Liu Qingge gently on the bed and pointed Xinmo at Mu Qingfang. "Save him or I will kill you and burn down all of Cang Qiong Peak as offerings to him."
"Mobei Jun, before I snap your neck. Tell me what happened." Luo Binghe said coldly.
"I suspect that he went to an imitation of the Tower of Dreams."
"Elaborate."
"The Tower of Dreams has been around since ancient times. The location and appearance is ever changing. It's known as a place where any wishes you make can come true, but it comes with a deep price. Though no one can remember exactly what it is. No one has heard of seen it for the last few centuries." Mobei Jun informed. "However, recently there has been rumors of it appearing. Everyone who went in to make a wish will be missing for a five to six days. Then they will appear with red eyes and symptoms of madness, trying to kill everyone they meet. Then they will disappear for a day and reappear as a drained corpse."
"Liu Qingge is one of the best cultivators in this world! You're telling me he would be so silly to go to a shady place like that to make a deal?" Luo Binghe scoffed. A flash of realization hit him and he frowned. "How did he get so hurt?"
"I suspect he just left the tower when I saw him. His eyes were red; his robes were tattered and stained with dried blood from his numerous wounds. He kept holding his head with his left hand and seemed to be in agony. He swung his sword like a mad man, but did not strike anyone. I went towards him to question him, but before I reached him, he ran his own sword through himself." Mobei Jun said.
"Investigate and bring bring back the culprit alive. I will destroy the bug myself." Luo Binghe ordered. "Now, get out."
Mobei Jun bowed and left. Luo Binghe got up and walked back to Liu Qingge's bedside. "Why's he still asleep?" Luo Binghe demanded.
"Liu Shixiong has severe inner and outer injuries. His meridians are a mess and his spiritual energy is critically low. He lost a lot of blood and it looks like he hasn't eaten or slept for a week. There is poison in his system, at least two months old. There is also signs of demonic energy used for mind control." Mu Qingfang said gravely. "Your blood was able to save his life now, but it is not enough to sustain his life. If he does not get the proper treatment, he would have less than three months... With his condition right now, no matter what method we use to treat him, he will be drowsy and not be able to stay awake for more than a shichen per day."
"What are the chances?"
"If he gives up cultivation for life, I can heal him within a month's time."
"Not plausible."
"There is another treatment, but it is expensive in both time and materials. The chance is only sixty five percent."
"Time and money is not an issue. Figure out a way to make it one hundred percent."
"There is another method that will cure him, but it will take more time. One of the ingredients is an extremely rare herb called 'Transparent Moonlit Root' but the location is unknown. No one has seen it in the past few centuries. After the treatment, he will not be able to do strenuous activities for at least a year in case of relapse."
"Is there no other solution?"
"Usually recovery wouldn't take as long, but he was never careful with his own body and health." Mu Qingfang sighed.
Luo Binghe frowned, making a mental note to feed lots of nutrious food to his Liu Shishu.
Luo Binghe wore his new hair crown, hoping his Shishu would wake up and see it. Luo Binghe took Liu Qingge's hand into his, and passed spiritual energy into him.
Liu Qingge felt as if he fell off a cliff. His head was pounding, ears ringing, throat sore, body trembling, and eyes blurry. His body felt stiff and fragile as if any movement would cause it to break down. He didn't expect to be in so much pain even when he died. He tried to move, but only his fingers twitched.
"Liu Shishu?" Luo Binghe cried out happily. "Liu Shishu, you're finally awake," Luo Binghe said tearfully.
Liu Qingge blinked, looking up at Luo Binghe. "Am I not dead?" Liu Qingge said with wonder.
"Liu Shishu, I would never let you die," Luo Binghe said.
"I'm sorry. I couldn't bring him back," Liu Qingge gritted out, weakly clenching his fist. He turned away and closed his eyes.
"Liu Qingge, look at me." Luo Binghe said. "It was my fault, I shouldn't have said that to you."
"But I..."
"You don't have to worry about a thing. I'll take care of you and I'll bring him back to life," Luo Binghe said firmly.
"I can take care of myself." Liu Qingge whispered.
"Please let me, at least until you recovered." Luo Binghe begged.
Liu Qingge's gaze fell to the hair crown on Luo Binghe's head and he felt his mouth slightly twitch. "Okay," he said, softly.
Luo Binghe saw his gaze and smiled. "Liu Shishu, you can't take back what was already given to me. I'll buy you as many hair crowns for you as you wish."
"I can afford my own," Liu Qingge scoffed.
"I know you can," Luo Binghe chuckled.
"Cucumber bro, please calm down."
"How can I calm down? I literally just woke up! My Liu Shidi is dying! I saved him from Qi deviation! He's one of my favorite characters. How dare you make him about to die again!" Shen Qingqiu demanded. "And my poor Binghe! How am I supposed to feel when you tell me that he spent five years fighting Liu Shidi over my corpse, but gained some type of attachment to Liu Shidi? How is he supposed to feel when his Shizun and Shishu dies in front of him?" Shen Qingqiu seethed.
"Cucumber bro, there is still a solution. He can be saved."
"Oh right, why didn't I think about it? Those two can just use some rare flower and papapa!" Shen Qingqiu said with relief.
"No, that's not how this works."
"Huh?" Shen Qingqiu exclaimed in shock and disbelief.
"You see this event was supposed to be for a pair of bestfriends that joined the harem. The girl who was dying was a strong warrior like Liu Qingge. She always fought with Luo Binghe, but they ended up liking each other without any party admitting because she also liked her bestfriend. Her bestfriend actually liked her too, but was also charmed by Luo Binghe. Anyhow the three of them liked each other."
"Get to the point."
"The point is that there is this root called 'Transparent Moonlit Root' and it can only be found in a hidden realm that only married couples with deep affections can enter. The root looks normal during the day, but at night the moonlight shines on it and it becomes transparent. So all you have to do is marry Luo Binghe to enter the realm, and get it. Liu Qingge will still need a long treatment of course. There are side effects, and he can't do strenuous activities for a year, but he will live. During that time Luo Binghe and you can take care of him and then marry him."
"That easy? There is no hidden plot or anything?" Shen Qingqiu asked.
"Well there shouldn't be, I mainly designed it that way so they could just get married." SHang Qinghua shrugged.
"Okay, that's good. Wait, but why would Luo Binghe and I marry each other? Shouldn't we find an actual couple?" Shen Qingqiu asked. "And why would we marry Liu Shidi later too?"
"Cucumber bro, Luo Binghe and you are in love with each other. The whole world knows, but you are still in denial." Shang Qinghua tsked. "And Liu Qingge has liked you for a long time now. He even wanted to be buried with your fan. You've also been attracted to him for awhile now. Every time I hear you say 'Liu Shidi is so beautiful, it's unreal' and your eyes sparkle. Luo Binghe threatened to murder my king and Mu Qingfang when Liu Qingge was dying. Liu Qingge gave his hair crown to Luo Binghe before fainting. Tell me cucumber bro, what else are the three of you supposed to do besides marry each other?" Shang Qinghua scoffed.
"Holy shit! I am in love with two men?" Shen Qingqiu exclaimed in realization. He dramatically fell onto the floor and held onto his heart. "And they are in love with me too?"
"Obviously." Shang Qinghua rolled his eyes.
"Wait, then Binghe isn't going to make me into a human stick?" Shen Qingqiu said. "I thank the gods and buddah and airplane shoot towards the sky." Shen Qingqiu made a praying gesture.
"Great, I'm glad we got that over with. Now all you have to do is have a conversation with Luo Binghe to solve all the misunderstandings." Shang Qinghua said.
"If this fails, I will curse you in my grave," Shen Qingqiu said.
"It won't fail. I know my son," Shang Qinghua said.
Suddenly Shen Qingqiu let out gasp of pain and fainted.
"Cucumber bro??" Shang Qinghua cried out in shock.
Luo Binghe sat down on the bedside. He silently watched Liu Qingge sleep. His Liu Shishu would be awake soon and he had to make sure he was there. Luo Binghe had prepared medicine and food that were all kept warm with heating talismans.
A sudden, rapid knock on the door was heard.
"Come in."
"Junshang! Shen Qingqiu's corpse is gone!"
"What?" Luo Binghe glared. "Don't bother to come back if you can bring his body back!"
"Yes, Junshang!"
Luo Binghe threw one of tea cups, shattering it to pieces. Demonic energy burst out and clouded the air. He gasped clutching his hair, trembling in rage.
"B-binghe?" Liu Qingge stirred awake, choking on the demonic energy. His body was still drowsy from illness.
"Liu Shishu... Was this a plot?" Luo Binghe's eyes turned red. He wrapped his hands onto Liu Qingge's throat, choking him. "You had to deceive me like this? Was it fun lying to me?" Luo Binghe snarled.
"W-what?" Liu Qingge let out a pained yelp, eyes glazed with confusion. He clutched onto Luo Binghe's hand, gasping.
Luo Binghe looked into Liu Qingge's eyes and released his grip. "You didn't do it." Luo Binghe said, eyes turning normal and demonic energy dissolving. "You didn't trick me to steal Shizun's body," Luo Binghe said with relief.
"W-what?" Liu Qingge coughed, glaring.
Luo Binghe wrapped his arms around him crying. "Liu Shishu, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have hurt you. I didn't mean to. When I thought you tricked me, I couldn't control myself. I'm sorry," Luo Binghe sobbed. When he finally calmed down, he looked Liu Qingge in the eye and patted his head. "Liu Shishu, promise to behave and stay in bed today. I'll go bring back Shizun."
Liu Qingge, who was too drowsy to protest, nodded.
"Liu Shishu, don't worry about a thing. All you have to do is rest, finish your food, and take your medicine. Binghe will solve everything else." Luo Binghe said.
Luo Binghe paced around the room, getting more and more anxious. It has been days and there were no signs of his Shizun's body. Liu Qingge was still asleep so nothing could calm Luo Binghe down.
Shang Qinghua knocked the door and Luo Binghe let him in. "What are you doing here?" Luo Binghe demanded.
"Okay, don't freak out but Shen Qingqiu is alive. Also we know where the 'Transparent Moonlit Root' is." Shang Qinghua said.
"If you're lying to me, I'll have your head." Luo Binghe glared coldly.
"He's not lying," Shen Qingqiu said, entering the room.
"Shizun?" Luo Binghe's eyes watered.
"Luo Binghe, let's get married." Shen Qingqiu declared, after mustering up all the courage.
Luo Binghe's eyes widened even more. "Shizun!" Luo Binghe started sobbing. Luo Binghe was very confused but he was so happy to see his Shizun alive. "Wait, marry?" Luo Binghe blushed.
"Cucumber Bro, you gotta explain things first," Shang Qinghua stage whispered.
Shen Qingqiu wasted no time to explain everything that happened, from how he had an extra body made, to how he was buried in soil and technically dead for five years. He explained how Luo Binghe's cousin, Zhuzhi Lang, and Luo Binghe's father, Tianlang jun repaid him by stealing his body and bring it in the Holy Mausoleum to save him. Shen Qingqiu told him about how he knows that Liu Qingge, Luo Binghe, and himself all like each other. He explained how they could get access to the 'Transparent Moonlit Root.'
"Luo Binghe, we can save him." Shen Qingqiu said.
Liu Qingge woke up and saw the three of them huddled in a corner, discussing things. His eyes widened at the sight of Shen Qingqiu and he wanted to call out to him, but he was afraid it was a dream so he kept staring in a daze.
"That's great Shizun! Let's get married." Luo Binghe cried out happily, clinging onto his Shizun.
Liu Qingge snapped out of his daze and looked at the two people he cherished hugging each other. His heart was in chaos. He was confused with the sudden turn of events: happy that Shen Qingqiu was somehow alive, happy for Luo Binghe and Shen Qingqiu's sudden engagement, and a slight pain in his own heart. But most of all he was relieved that those two did not have to suffer anymore. He would gladly take the suffering himself. He closed his eyes and turned away from the scene. He knew they no longer need him there. When he was ready he would face them with questions and blessings. For now he was still too tired to think anymore.
Luo Binghe and Shen Qingqiu decided to get married the next day. Their wedding was rushed as they were pressed for time. They did not bother with a banquet and just casually gave the three bows. They rushed off to find the cure for Liu Qingge without consummating their marriage. Luo Binghe made lots of food for Liu Qingge because he did not trust anyone else's cooking. He had once again threatened to kill everyone if anything happened to Liu Qingge when they were gone.
Liu Qingge was asleep for most of the day and only knew that Shen Qingqiu and Luo Binghe already got married and ran off to get him medicine when he woke up.
Liu Qingge was a bit heartbroken that they didn't let him see the wedding, but touched that they still cared about him enough to get him a cure on their wedding day.
Just as Shang Qinghua mentioned, there was absolutely no obstacles in the way for them to get into the hidden realm.
"Shizun, I thought this 'Transparent Moonlit Root' is rare. Isn't this a little too easy?" Luo Binghe asked.
Although Shen QIngqiu agreed with Luo Binghe, he could not exactly tell him it was just some dumb plot device to throw two more wives into Luo Binghe's harem. "You see, only married couples with deep affections can find this place. Usually people come with martial siblings or by themselves. Also, not a lot of married couples have deep affection like we do," Shen Qingqiu waved his fan and said with a straight face. If he looked serious enough, Luo Binghe would believe whatever he says.
"Shizun is so wise," Luo Binghe beamed.
Suddenly loud sound of bells chiming blasted from the system.
{Congratulations! Congratulations! Congratulations!~ Your account has been upgraded. The protagonist is one hundred percent smitten with you and truly trusts you. From now on, you may access one easy mode per month for free! Keep up the good work.}
For once Shen Qingqiu was quite pleased with the system. If Shen Qingqiu knew earlier that marrying Luo Binghe could give such a cool upgrade, he would have done it earlier.
[System, is it possible to use easy mode to find out who harmed Liu Shidi?] Shen Qingqiu asked.
{Possible! Definitely possible! Since Liu Qingge is a precious person to the protagonist and to my boss, we can make it super duper easy mode by throwing the villain right at your doorsteps to confess his crimes. Would you like to make the purchase?"} The system chirped happily.
[Of course!] Shen Qingqiu happily made the purchase.
{Loading....}
{Transaction done! The villain will arrive when you arrive home.}
{Boss said if you guys beat up the villain really well, a free upgrade to getting two free easy modes can be made.} The system chirped.
[Deal!]
The system was very trustworthy. Right after Luo Binghe and Shen Qingqiu arrived back at Huanhua Palace with the 'Transparent Moonlit Root,' Mobei-Jun was dragging in a bloodied demon.
"Junshang, I found the culprit," Mobei-Jun said, kicking the demon towards Luo Binghe.
Shen Qingqiu handed the 'Transparent Moonlit Root' to Mu Qingfang and walked over to the demon.
"So you're the demon that hurt my Liu Shidi," Shen Qingqiu stomped on the demon's hand, earning a scream.
"Speak, you filthy trash. What did you do to the Bai Zhan Peak Lord?" Luo Binghe asked coldly, piercing Xinmo through the villain's leg.
"P-please don't kill me," The villain cried. "You see I'm just a poor demon illusionist that can control poison and mind control. Pure fear and pain from someone with spiritual energy can help me become even stronger so I thought of an idea. I created illusions to make people think the Tower of Dreams exist. I just happened to come across the Bai Zhan Peak Lord one day and he was pretty and he smelled so good. He's the exact type of prey I like to feast on, so I poisoned him when he was injured. I waited for him to get weaker and weaker. Weeks passed by and I had no opportunity. I thought I would have to do something else to make him come to me, but who knew he would come storming in to the Tower of Dreams to make a deal? An opportunity arrived and I trapped him in there. I had him suffer nightmares and poisoned him more. I had him cut himself with the dagger every time he wanted to beg for something. You see, he was very willing to do that to not see his loved ones suffer."
Luo Binghe and Sheen Qingqiu's expressions grew darker and darker. "Shizun, I think this demon cannot live."
"No Binghe, he must live. He will live everyday begging for death." Shen Qingqiu gave a swift kick to the villain's face, knocking out a few teeth.
"As Shizun wishes." Luo Binghe says. "You've messed with the wrong person. You shouldn't touch what's ours." Luo Binghe said coldly. Luo Binghe used Xinmo to make a cut on his finger and dropped his blood into a cup; forcing the villain to drink it.
Luo Binghe hummed, making small cuts over the villain's flinching body. "You see my blood can tear you up from the inside." Luo Binghe healed the cut. "And it could also heal some of your wounds."
"From now on, you'll live in a constant state of fear and pain. There will not be a day where you do no feel your insides twisting and burning. You will be free for anyone to be used as a training dummy or torture. You will not be able to sleep because I'll haunt you with nightmares for as long as you live, and with my blood in you, I won't let you die." Luo Binghe smirked.
The villain violently trembled. "Please forgive me."
"Forgiveness will not be granted." Luo Binghe smiled, coldly. "Shizun and I will be having a lot of fun with you." Luo Binghe said. Shen Qingqiu nodded in agreement and gave the demon another harsh kick.
"Mobei-Jun, spread the word of that he's the example of what will happen if anyone ever hurts Liu Shishu or Shizun in anyway. Give him one hundred lashes with the whip, and do whatever you want with him, without killing him. Drag him around for everyone to see, then throw him in the dungeons." Luo Binghe ordered.
Mobei-Jun nodded and dragged the bloody, wailing demon away.
Three months passed and Liu Qingge was able to stay awake longer than one shichen. He was still drowsy all the time, but that did not mean he would slack on his training. He just had to do it without getting caught. Luo Binghe had promised to take care of him while he was sick and took it very seriously. Even Shen Qingqiu was constantly on his case about him needing to rest.
Liu Qingge didn't understand why the two people he had feelings for still had time to think about him. They were married and should be spending more time together, but instead they were taking care of him. Liu Qingge didn't want them to waste anymore of their lost time on him. He felt guilty and made the decision to go back to Bai Zhan Peak as soon as he was well enough. For now he would just have to train whenever he can. He didn't get very far before he heard a familiar chastising voice.
"Liu Shishu, put down the sword this instant," Luo Binghe said. "You're not allowed any strenuous activity yet."
"This is just light exercise! I barely have to use any power." Liu Qingge defended, making a few light moves to show his point. Instantly he felt his head pounding and body aching, but he refused to show his pain.
"Liu Shidi," Shen Qingqiu chided. "We've been over this many times already."
"You two worry too much," Liu Qingge scowled. He hadn't been able to train in so long. He didn't care if he was in pain, he just didn't want his skills to get rusty.
"Liu Qingge," Luo Binghe said sternly.
Liu Qingge ignored them and made a move to walk away and train. In a flash Luo Binghe confiscated his Cheng Luan.
"Give it back!" Liu Qingge demanded.
"You won't be getting this back until I see fit." Luo Binghe said.
"You can't do that!" Liu Qingge glared at him.
"Yes, I can and I will." Luo Binghe said.
"Liu Shidi..." Shen Qingqiu sighed. "Come here."
"No," Liu Qingge turned away stubbornly.
"Liu Shidi," Shen Qingqiu sighed hopelessly.
Luo Binghe stormed over and picked him up. "You are going back to bed." Luo Binghe said with finality.
"No, I've been sleeping for so long already!" Liu Qingge protested.
"Those so called 'light moves' took all of your energy. Do you think I can't tell?" Luo Binghe scolded.
LIu Qingge scrunched up his face, scowling weakly in response.
"Liu Shishu can do whatever he wants when he's healthy," Luo Binghe's face softened, stroking his cheeks.
Liu Qingge was brought back to his room and dressed in another new set of sleeping robes that they bought him.
"Sleep Liu Shidi," Shen Qingqiu said gently, tucking him in bed.
Liu Qingge wishes they didn't treat him with so much care. It would make it so much harder for him to try to leave them later. He closed his eyes and waited for them to leave his room. When he was sure he was alone in the room, he silently wept.
"Airplane bro, your new book is actually pretty decent." Shen Qingqiu commented. "Just that you're shit at updating."
"Cucumber bro, are you actually praising me?" Shang Qinghua asked, feeling slightly touched.
"I am perfectly capable of giving good literature praises." Shen Qingqiu waved his fan lazily. He perked up a little when the door opened. Luo Binghe entered the room with a plate of desserts and new pot of tea.
Shen Qingqiu and Shang Qinghua sighed in appreciation. "Binghe these are amazing," Shen Qingqiu happily chewed on one of the cakes. Shang Qinghua nodded in agreement.
"Binghe?" Shen Qingqiu asked in confusion when Luo Binghe didn't reply. Shen Qingqiu and Shang Qinghua glanced at each other in concern.
"What happened Binghe?" Shen Qingqiu asked, running his fingers through his husband's thick, fluffy hair.
"Liu Shishu was mad at me for kissing him on the cheek. He hid in Xian Shu Peak with his sister and the girls wouldn't let me in today."
"Liu Shidi is shy."
"But he's dating us! He shouldn't be running away from us."
"Out of curiosity, did you two actually ever ask him out?" Shang Qinghua cut in.
"Huh? No, why would we? He already gave me his hair crown." Luo Binghe looked at him strangely.
"And he wanted to be buried with my fan. We've been dating him for so long now: taking care of him, buying him things, taking him out for trips." Shen Qingqiu stated.
"Perhaps, you two should ask him. After all you two are married to each other and he's not." Shang Qinghua suggested. "Liu Qingge is a pure flower when it comes to the matter of the heart. He won't fully understand unless you tell him. I know the three of you clearly had feelings for each other before the two of you got married. The two of you literally married to save his life, but he will only see that the two people he likes are perfect together and wouldn't want to get in between. He has a delicate but loyal heart. He will wish the best for the two of you and not hope to get in between. My poor Liu Qingge," Shang Qinghua sniffled mournfully. "All that potential in his character that had to be let go off to make the protagonist shine. I should have made him a seperate series."
Luo Binghe, who blanked out after hearing 'My poor Liu Qingge,' glared at Shang Qinghua. "Since when was Liu Shishu yours?" Luo Binghe demanded, expression darkening, and demon mark glowing.
"Binghe, it's just an expression. Airplane bro- I mean Shang shidi means no harm," Shen Qingqiu said mentally sweating. "It's just a way of him showing he cares."
"Ah yeah, I don't see him that way. I already have my King," Shang Qinghua gave a nervous chuckle. "Anyways, my King must be waiting for me." Shang Qinghua hurried out the door.
"Liu Shidi, it has come to our attention that you're avoiding us. Did Binghe and I something wrong?" Sheng Qingqiu went straight to the point.
"I-I'm not." Liu Qingge denied.
"You are! You ran away when I kissed you," Luo Binghe chipped in, tone laced with displeasure.
"Y-you can't do that." Liu Qingge stuttered, sounding afraid. Liu Qingge turned to Shen Qingqiu with wide eyes. "S-shen Shixiong, it was a mistake," Liu Qingge pleaded, looking close to tears. "He didn't mean to."
"Oh no, I very well meant to kiss you," Luo Binghe interrupted.
"B-binghe p-please don't do this to me," Liu Qingge pleaded, voice trembling. "I'll leave, I won't see you two again. Please, I didn't mean to get in between. I really didn't mean to. Please don't hate me." Liu Qingge whimpered, panickng. Luo Binghe and Shen Qingqiu looked at him in concern. It confused them why Liu Qingge seemed so out of character, looking so afraid of them.
"Liu Shidi," Shen Qingqiu reached out and held Liu Qingge's hand. Liu Qingge tried to take back his hand but Shen Qingqiu wouldn't let him.
Luo Binghe placed a hand on Liu Qingge's face, causing the later to flinch. Luo Binghe stroked his cheek and placed a soothing kiss on his forehead. Liu Qingge froze, still looking partially terrified. "Why would we want you to leave? Are you not happy dating us?" Luo Binghe asked gently.
"W-what?" Liu Qingge's eyes widened. "I am?" Liu Qingge face changed from terrified, to confused, to hopeful.
"Why, you don't want to?" Luo Binghe pouted.
"You still want me? Aren't you two married?" Liu Qingge asked, still confused.
"We are married, but we care for you too."
"Shizun, the right word is 'love', Luo Binghe helpfully supplied.
Liu Qingge felt himself trembling again from a mix emotions. His face heat up and he passed out. "Liu Shishu's illness is acting up again." Luo Binghe said worriedly.
"No Binghe, I think you scared him." Shen Qingqiu commented.
Luo Binghe frowned, pulling Liu Qingge into his lap and passed spiritual energy to him. "We will talk to him again when he wakes up."
"Binghe, are you sure this would work?"
"Of course Shizun! We just have to get his families approval first and then propose to Liu Shishu. That way he doesn't have to worry about a single thing."
"How do you know he even wants to marry us? He just official started dating us yesterday."
"We were dating him for much longer, he just didn't realize. Besides, you're just as eager to have him as our husband."
"Yeah, but we can't just show up at his family home and tell his parents that we are married to each other, and hope for them to let Liu Shidi marry us too." Shen Qingqiu said reasonably.
"Oh no Shizun, you are wrong. Shizun is perfect and they would love to have you as a son-in-law."
"And Binghe is perfect." Shen Qingqiu said automatically.
"See Shizun? We will be able to convince them." Luo Binghe said. Shen Qingqiu nodded in agreement. Luo Binghe is the protagonist and anything he plans will definitely come true. In the novel Luo Binghe has never been denied of the person he wanted to add to his harem, so Shen Qingqiu can only trust his lead.
In a blink of an eye, Luo Binghe and Shen Qingqiu were were inside the Liu Manor. "It's an honor to have two esteemed guests in our humble abode. I am the governor of flower city, Liu Yan." Liu Qingge's father greeted. "This is my wife, Li Jinyun."
"Governor Liu, Madam Liu," Luo Binghe and Shen Qingqiu greeted.
"We heard from our steward that you two had something important to tell us regarding one of our child." Madam Liu got right to the point.
"Yes, we are here to make a marriage proposal." Luo Binghe said.
"Liu Mingyan has stated her wish to not marry until she is ready." Madam Liu said.
"No, we're here to propose marriage to you son Liu Qingge." Shen Qingqiu said. Madam Liu and Governor Liu gave them a look of surprise.
"You two are very brave. No one has been brave enough to propose marriage to Qingge for years now. He challenged every last one of his suitors, no matter man or women and beaten all of them to the brink of death. Our son's looks and swordsmanship is very popular, but no can handle him. May I know who the person you two are helping propose for." Governor Liu said.
"It is us," Luo Binghe declared.
"Both of you? Aren't you two married?" Madam Liu choked on her tea, losing her composure.
"We are married, but we also love him. We married to save him." Luo Binghe said. Shen Qingqiu added in what happened in the past few months. After explaining everything, Governor Liu and Madam Li had complicated expressions on their face.
"That brat did not even tell us, just see how I deal with him." Governor Liu scowled.
"Don't be mad at him." Luo Binghe said. "He doesn't want to make people worried for him."
"We almost lost him and we didn't even know. He may be the Bai Zhan Battle God, but he is still our son." Madam Liu said, frowning.
"Liu Shidi means no harm." Shen Qingqiu said. "What matters is that he is recovering well, and we promise to take care of him."
"Yeah, please calm down. Why don't you have some tea and try some of these pastries?" Luo Binghe placed a box of homemade pastries he made in the morning on the table.
"The quality of these pastries are very good. I've never tasted anything as exquisite as this. One won't feel tired eating this often," Madam Liu complimented, eyes shinning.
"May I ask where you purchased these?"
"These are worthy of all praises. They would be perfect for the dinner we will be hosting for my brother next week. He really enjoys sweets like these." Governor Liu added.
"Binghe made these himself," Shen Qingqiu said, proudly.
"You can cook?" Governor Liu and Madam Li looked at Luo Binghe in shock.
"My mother was ill and we weren't well off so I learned to cook." Luo Binghe explained. "I can make some more and bring it to you for the dinner." Luo Binghe offered, smiling.
"As delectable as these are, we cannot bother our esteemed guest to do such duties for us," Governor Liu said.
"It's no bother at all, I will be honored to," Luo Binghe smiled.
"You two really love our son," Madam Li said. "Out of the thousands of marriage proposals we've received through the years, this is the first time we've seen such sincerity."
"He is special and irreplaceable in our hearts." Luo Binghe said. "We are serious about your son." Shen Qingqiu nodded in agreement. Luo Binghe is charming and Shen Qingqiu believes Binghe would be able persuade Liu Qingge's parents.
"All I want is my son to be happy. I can ask him, but I will not force him. There is also something from his past that you two must know about. It's something that cannot be hidden and if you two back out, we will not take offence," Madam Liu smiled a bit bitterly. She turned to her husband and nodded.
"My son does not often show it, but his heart is fragile. Many people coveted our son just from his face alone. He's been kidnapped many times when he was a child. We hired people to teach him martial arts. When he was thirteen he joined Cang Qiong Sect to become stronger. When he was eighteen, he briefly fell in love with a strong cultivator. The cultivator was married, but hid it from our son. The cultivator was only interested in my son's face and used honeyed words to sleep with him. When the man's wife found out, she made a ruckus and humiliated our son: screaming at him, hitting him, making him kneel in the rain in only his inner robes, spreading awful rumors about him, and her husband just watched without caring. Our son was delivered back to us fevered and battered. Later on we found out that cultivator is notorious for falsifying his identity, and charming people he found pretty with honeyed words to sleep with; always cheating on his wife. His wife never blames him, but always humiliates the people that fall victim to her husband. My son was heartbroken and swore off love. Since then he became even more and more obsessed with cultivating and thinks nothing but finding strong opponents to fight." Governor Liu said. "Half the people that come for marriage proposals back out when they hear this story, and the other half are scared away by our son. We understand if you two no longer wish to pursue him."
"Who is that cultivator?" Luo Binghe asked, frowning. Shen Qingqiu clenched his fan so hard he almost broke it. No wonder why Liu Qingge had been so fretful when they confessed and why it took them so long to convince him that they were being serious.
"The cultivator is no longer alive, so his name is not worth mentioning or remembering." Governor Liu frowned. "My son has suffered enough, and I can only hope he can be happy."
"No matter what happened in the past, we still want to be with him." Shen Qingqiu finally spoke up.
Madam Liu and Governor Liu looked at them in surprise. "Although I would love you two as son-in-laws, my son will is not one that is easy to persuade." Madam Li said.
"No worries, your son has already agreed to date us. We just wanted to get his parents approval so when time comes we can propose to him, and he can accept without worries." Luo Binghe informed.
"D-dating?" Madam Li choked out.
"H-he agreed to date?" Governor Liu had a look of disbelief.
"We speak only the truth," Shen Qingqiu added.
"I-I'm so relieved. I thought my son would have to be alone for the rest of his life." Madam Liu cried out. "Let's plan the wedding!" She declared with enthusiasm.
"Of course," Luo Binghe smiled brightly. "These are the designs of the wedding robes I've been working on for Qingge. What do you think?" Luo Binghe asked, taking out a stack of papers.
"These are perfect," Madam Liu grinned.
"Ge, I can't believe you're getting married already." Liu Mingyan said. "How did that happen anyways?"
"We were eating lunch yesterday and they brought it up. I told them I had to ask mom and dad so they took me straight to Liu Manor after we finished eating. Mom and dad gave the approval before I even entered the house." Liu Qingge shrugged.
"Ge, I want to do your make up for the wedding," Liu Mingyan said.
"Okay," Liu Qingge agreed, with a rare smile.
"Do you really love them that much?" Liu Mingyan asked.
Liu Qingge blushed and nodded.
"Then you will have to learn how to deal with them properly." Liu Mingyan said earnestly.
"What do you mean?"
"With your personality, you'll fight with them whenever something displeases you. When you're married, you'll have to talk properly with them. Of course as a member of the Liu family, I don't expect you to give in to them all the time. The Liu family is known for beauty, and charm so use it." Liu Mingyan said. "For example, tell me what you will do if you want them to buy you new clothes."
"I don't need new clothes and I can afford it." Liu Qingge replied with offense.
"Details," Liu Mingyan shrugged. "Just an example. No need to think too deeply," Liu Mingyan said. "So what will you do if you forget your money or just want them to pay for it?"
"Snatch one of their money pouches and buy." Liu Qingge said.
"Hopeless." Liu Mingyan sighed, crossing her arms. "Guys like it when their significant other act cute. All you have to do is tug their sleeve, widen you eyes, pout, and whine 'husband~' in a sweet voice. I gurantee you, not only will they buy you things, they will yield to whatever you want. Even if you anger them to the point of qi deviation, they will be brought back to life."
"I don't think that's how it works," Liu Qingge gave his sister a look of disgust and distrust.
"Come on, this is the most basic skill you need to protect yourself." Liu Mingyan said. "Trust me, you can test it on me," Liu Mingyan encouraged.
"Husband~" Liu Qingge whined, tugging onto Liu Mingyan's sleeve, looking at her with wide eyes and a pout.
"Ge! You're so cute!" Liu Mingyan burst out into giggles, pinching his cheeks. "You actually believed that?"
"You tricked me?" Liu Qingge growled, face glowing red.
"Wait ge! Even though I was messing with you, I'm sure it'll work on them! You can use it!" Liu Mingyan called out. "Ge, come back! That was only skill number one, I have more skills to teach you. Gege!"
"I don't need it! Binghe and Shen Shixiong buys anything I look at for longer than thirty seconds anyways," Liu Qingge stormed off in anger.
Liu Mingyan tsked in disappointment. No matter, she will teach her brother more in the future.
The day of the wedding came, and the Liu family was full of emotions. As Shen Qingqiu did not have family, and Luo Binghe's dad and cousin did not have a permanent residence, they agreed to have the wedding at Liu Manor. All guests would be arriving in a shichen, but Liu Qingge was not dressed yet. "Mom, dad..." Liu Qingge said hopelessly, while pacing around the room nervously. "Can you both stop crying?" Liu Qingge asked.
"It's not their fault they thought you would be single and lonely for the rest of your life," Liu Mingyan said. "Who knew you would end up with two husbands instead."
"I'm just so happy," Madam Liu sniffled.
"My precious son, I'm so happy for you. If they bully you, dad will beat them up for you," Governor Liu said.
"Don't worry, I've taught ge many useful skills. My brother's looks alone will make them feel grateful and worship him everyday," Liu Mingyan said. "Now calm down, and wear your wedding robes."
Liu Qingge's wedding robes: red with a golden embroided phoenix surrounded by bamboo shoots. The leaves were replaced with Luo Binghe's demon mark. The sleeves were embroidered small swords and lotus. His hair was made into a half ponytail and pinned by a golden jeweled crown and a golden hair stick with hanging strings of gold and jewels.
"Let's make your lips more full and kissable," Liu Mingyan said, gleefully.
"Are you done yet?" Liu Qingge growled.
"Almost, let me fix your eyelashes and we have to emphasis your beauty mark."
"Mingyan..."
"Ge, your husbands will love it."
"Fine."
The wedding procession went quite smoothly, though Liu Qingge suspected that Luo Binghe would burst into tears at any moment. Even Shen Qingqiu was trembling a bit. Liu Qingge, who was really nervous before the wedding, was actually feeling very calm at the moment.
They bowed to heaven, earth, and their parents. Liu Qingge's parents actually looked composed as if they were not crying one shichen ago. Surprisingly, Liu Mingyan was the one that actually ended up crying.
They greeted the guests as quickly as they could and ran off to consummate their marriage. Liu Qingge couldn't feel any happier or safer than being wrapped in the arms of both of his sleeping husbands.
Overwhelmed with emotions, he silently cried, trying not to wake his husbands. Years of loneliness, fear, heartbreak, and anxiety washed away; he was relieved. Shen Qingqiu was not one easy to wake up, but Luo Binghe sensed something wrong and immediately woke up.
"Sweetheart, were we too rough? Are you hurt?" Luo Binghe kissed his tear stained cheeks.
"N-no..."
"Then, why are you crying?"
"Binghe, I love you and Shen Shixiong," Liu Qingge choked out.
Luo Binghe broke out into a warm smile. "Shizun and I love you very much too," Luo Binghe hugged him. "Next time don't cry alone. You have me, and you also have Shizun." Luo Binghe said.
"Mn," Liu Qingge nodded, resting his head on Luo Binghe's chest.
"Good. Now go to sleep sweetheart." Luo Binghe ran his hand through Liu Qingge's locks of silky hair. Liu Qingge closed his eyes, and let the warmth around him lure him to a peaceful sleep.
Luo Binghe placed kiss on the crown of Liu Qingge's head and went back to sleep.
Shen Qingqiu doesn't know when his shidi had become so spoiled. It baffles him to this day how Liu Qingge went from someone who could barely tell the difference between tea and water, to someone who refused to take a single bite of food that he deemed low quality: anything that was not cooked by Luo Binghe. Even Shen Qingqiu wasn't that picky, and he can be if he wanted to.
Shen Qingqiu does not blame him though. During the time Liu Qingge was ill, Luo Binghe had refused to let Liu Qingge eat anything that was not personally supervised or made by him. When Liu Qingge was well enough to go back to Bai Zhan Peak, Luo Binghe continued to make him good food. Whenever Luo Binghe was free, he would cook and secretly switch out all of Liu Qingge's meals with some inside help: Liu Mingyan.
Liu Qingge had been unsuspecting at first, but quickly became suspicious due to the familiar taste. Liu Qingge willingly devoured all the food he was given, so Luo Binghe happily cooked for him as often as he could. Luo Binghe's legendary cooking is unrivalled. To be honest the only person that Shen Qingqiu could think of that could cook on the level of Luo Binghe was his personal five star chief back in his original world. So no, Shen Qingqiu does not blame Liu Qingge at all for scoffing at any food that was not made by Luo Binghe. Shen Qingqiu very much agrees with Liu Qingge's thoughts. Unfortunately Luo Binghe was busy with his own duties and sometimes they can only make do with other people's subpar cooking.
Today was one of those days. Luo Binghe had been off fighting rebellious demons causing havoc in the demon realm for a week and a half now. Luo Binghe had firmly rejected Liu Qingge's offer to help due to Mu Qingfang's strict orders that Liu Qingge doesn't overexert himself until his full recovery. Shen Qingqiu and Luo Binghe could tell that Liu Qingge was feeling sulky for not being able to go out and fight, even if he would deny it if he was asked. Luo Binghe tried his best too soothe him by preparing as much good food as possible before he left. As there were no refrigerators in this world, the food could only last so long.
However, there are plenty of decent chiefs out there and some are almost as amazing as Luo Binghe. Almost because Luo Binghe is the golden protagonist with all the talents and luck of the skies and earth. Luo Binghe won't die or lose. Meaning no one could actually defeat Luo Binghe in anything. Good luck trying to steal any of Luo Binghe's two husbands through food, looks, or prowess. Not that Shen Qingqiu or Liu Qingge would be tempted by anyone in the first place. Anyways, the point is that It's actually quite unfair for all the renowned chiefs in this world to be compared to the likes of Luo Binghe. One can only shine so much if they did not have the luck to receive grace from the protagonist. That's why Shen Qingqiu did not judge those sorry souls too hard. His poor Liu Shidi on the other hand did not know any better, which is why he was so stubborn.
"Liu Shidi, we may be able to practice inedia, but it can only last so long. It's been days since you've eaten anything. These dishes were all made by renowned chiefs around the world, perhaps one of the dishes would be to your liking." Shen Qingqiu lifted up a spoonful of congee towards Liu Qingge's mouth. "This congee taste almost as good as Luo Binghe's."
"Not hungry," Liu Qingge scrunched up his face in distaste and turned away. Shen Qingqiu admits he found that look fatally adorable, and he found himself once again about to crumble and give up on persuading him. He must not give up. Shen Yuan, you can do it! Shen Qingqiu mentally cheered himself on.
"Liu Shidi... Binghe would be quite sad to hear that his Shishu would starve himself without him around," Shen Qingqiu said rather pitifully, hiding his face with his handy fan.
Liu Qingge raised one of his eyebrows in response, looking at him as if he was crazy.
Shen Qingqiu sighed to himself yet again. Of course that wouldn't have worked. Luo Binghe's possessive self would be delighted that Liu Qingge only liked his cooking. Honestly, Shen Qingqiu wouldn't usually mind Liu Qingge practicing inedia. With their level of cultivation, they can last without food for a week, but the problem is that Liu Qingge was still suffering side affects from his illness from half a year ago. He still needed proper food and rest! However, Liu Qingge was too stubborn to see reason.
Shen Qingqiu racked his brains to try to think of something. Why was his Liu Shidi even harder to coax than a child? Honestly if his Liu Shidi wasn't so pretty, so cute, and just so breathtakingly beautiful in general, he would have an easier time being stern with him. Why are both of his husbands so stubborn and hard to deal with? This was clearly all Airplane shooting towards the Sky's fault! Shen Qingqiu made a mental note to settle the score with Shang Qinghua the next time he met him.
Needless to say, Shen Qingqiu failed to make Liu Qingge eat anything that night.
Luo Binghe entered his bed chambers early in the morning to the sight of his husbands cuddling in bed. Luo Binghe let out a soft laugh and pressed a kiss on Shen Qingqiu's cheek. Shen Qingqiu remained unresponsive, dead asleep to the world. Luo Binghe then placed a kiss onto Liu Qingge's cheek, waking him up.
Liu Qingge blinked sleepily at Luo Binghe and rubbed his eyes. Luo Binghe softly pried Liu Qingge out of his Shizun's arms and replaced him with a pillow.
"Binghe..." Liu Qingge grumbled rather displeased from being pulled away from Shen Qingqiu's warm hold. "You're back..."
Luo Binghe took advantage of his Liu Shishu's sleepy state and bridal carried him out the door. "I finished and rushed back."
"Mn, good." Liu Qingge muttered.
"Liu Shishu, I received Shizun's message." Luo Binghe said.
"Nosy," Liu Qingge complained sleepily, resting his head on Luo Binghe's shoulder.
"Binghe is delighted that Liu Shishu holds his cooking in such high regards." Luo Binhe says cheerfully. He enters the kitchen and places Liu Qingge carefully on the counter. Luo
Binghe gently cleaned Liu Qingge's face with a warm, wet cloth. Luo Binghe passed him a toothbrush and water. Liu Qingge silently brushed as Luo Binghe prepared some herbal tea for him to drink.
"Liu Shishu's body isn't fully well yet and needs to eat properly." Luo Binghe took off his outer robe and wrapped it around Liu Qingge. Luo Binghe pressed a chaste kiss on his forehead. "This husband will be quick."
Luo Binghe was rather skilled, so prepping for breakfast was done in the blink of an eye. While the scallop congee was boiling in the pot, and cakes were in the steamer, Luo Binghe made a scallion pancake and wrapped it in oil paper. He blew onto it until he deemed it cool enough to eat and place it in Liu Qingge's hand. "I hope Liu Shishu can make do with this while we wait for the rest of the food to be done."
Liu Qingge took a bite, eyes visibly lighting up in delight. Luo Binghe leaned his head on his hand and gazed at him with a soft smile. Sensing someone staring at him, Liu
Qingge flushed and turned away.
"How is it?" Luo Binghe chuckled in amusement.
"I-it's ok," Liu Qingge says. "It's edible." Liu Qingge adds after a moment of thinking.
Luo Binghe smiled in response, silent watching Liu Qingge eat in content. Seeing Liu Qingge finish his food, Luo Binghe wrapped his arms around his husband's waist.
"What're you doing?" Liu Qingge halfheartedly pushed Luo Binghe's shoulders.
"Giving my husband the love he deserves," Luo Binghe tightened his hold and nuzzled his face into Liu Qingge's neck.
"Let go." Liu Qingge squirmed in his hold, blushing furiously.
"No." Luo Binghe said firmly.
"Luo Binghe!" Liu Qingge gritted out rather helplessly.
"Qingge, I haven't seen you and Shizun all week. Let me recharge my battery." Luo Binghe looked up pouting.
Liu Qingge took a look at Luo Binghe and frowned, hand reaching out to hold his face. "How long have you not slept?" Liu Qingge asked, tracing the dark circles around Luo Binghe's eyes.
"I did sleep," Luo Binghe replies, closing his eyes.
"Doesn't look like it." Liu Qingge commented dryly.
"I wanted to come back as fast as I can so I had a small nap here and there. Thinking of Liu Shishu and Shizun made me full of energy!" Luo Binghe grinned.
"..." Liu Qingge dropped his gaze and looked down.
"Liu Shishu?" Luo Binghe asked in concern as his husband's frown deepened and the silence between them grew tense. "Sweetheart, look at me. What's wrong?" Luo Binghe said.
"Am I difficult?" Liu Qingge asked, voice despondent.
Alarms immediately rang in Luo Binghe's head. It was rare for Liu Qingge to be so down. Liu Qingge would rather fight to death than to be beaten down. Liu Qingge was brave, loyal, pure, and fierce. Though he may be shy at times, he rarely was in such low spirits. Something must have happened to him.
"Who was it?" Luo Binghe demanded.
"Huh?" Liu Qingge asked in confusion.
"Who bullied you? I will snap their necks," Luo Binghe growled, demon mark glowing.
"Calm down." Liu Qingge gave him a weird look. "Who can bully me?"
"Then why do you think you're difficult?" Luo Binghe asked, his turn to be confused.
"You have dark circles around your eyes. You pushed yourself to finish everything faster not just because you missed us, but to make me eat." Liu Qingge said. "I don't know how to repay you."
"Liu Qingge, listen to me. You and Shizun are my husbands. No matter what I do for any of you, I don't expect for it to be paid back. It's my duty and joy to make sure both of your are healthy, happy, and well fed."
"Binghe..."
"Do you understand?" Luo Binghe said sternly.
"Yes husband." Liu Qingge said.
"Though Liu Shishu can pay me back in other ways." Luo Binghe teased.
"Okay, anything." Liu Qingge nodded seriously.
"Do you know what you're agreeing to?" Luo Binghe chuckled. "Are you going to regret and back off when I tell you what it is?"
"I won't back off!" Liu Qingge declared, rather offended.
"Then from now on Qingge must not try to escape whenever Binghe wants hugs and kisses during the day."
"But you like to do that stuff in public!"
"What's the fun if it's not in public?"
"Embarrassing!"
"What's embarrasing about showing off how much I love my husband?!" Luo Binghe demanded.
"It's indecent!" Liu Qingge gritted out.
"Liu Shishu, you promised! A noble man does not back out of his promise." Luo Binghe said.
"I'm not a noble man." Liu Qingge frowned.
"Liu Shishu!" Luo Binghe complained.
"Fine..." Liu Qingge grumbled reluctantly. "But I have a request."
"Anything my husband asks." Luo Binghe hummed in appreciation.
"Next time I want to go too."
"No," Luo Binghe stated firmly.
"Are you looking down on me?" Liu Qingge glared. "I can take down a thousand demons in a blink of an eye."
"I know you can." Luo Binghe's voice softened.
"Then why?" Liu Qingge asked, frustrated. "I haven't been able to go out and fight for half a year!"
"Mu Qingfang said that you can't do extreme activities until you're fully healed." Luo Binghe explained. "It'll take a few more months before you recover fully."
"I'm fine." Liu Qingge scowled. "I know my body better than he does!"
"He's your head physician." Luo Binghe sighed, placing a hand on Liu Qingge's shoulder comfortingly. "If you listen to what he says, you'll be healthy enough to run around and pick all the fights you want in no time."
"Don't touch me," Liu Qingge batted Luo Binghe's hand away in annoyance and anger.
"Fine, tell when you're done sulking so we can have breakfast with Shizun," Luo Binghe replied. Luo Binghe calmly placed the food and utensils onto a large tray while Liu Qingge glared at him from the counter. Luo Binghe left the kitchen with the tray of food. He placed the food in the bedroom and woke his Shizun up with many kisses. Shen Qingqiu groggily woke up and dressed while Luo Binghe went back to the kitchen.
"Are you calm now Liu Shishu?" Luo Binghe asked.
"Get my shoes." Liu Qingge growled. "You forgot them again."
"No need, I can carry you," Luo Binghe replied, taking his husband in his arms once again.
"I can walk!" Liu Qingge glared.
"Liu Shishu, stop being angry. When you're better I'll take you to different parts of the demonic realm that's not mine, so you can conquer all of them. " Luo Binghe coaxed.
"Really?" Liu Qingge asked, eyes shinning, excitement bursting through his veins.
"Yes, and if you want, I'll let you kill all of them." Luo Binghe said.
"I just want a good fight." Liu Qingge grumbled.
"I know," Luo Binghe chuckled. "Are we good now?"
Liu Qingge nodded and was rewarded with a kiss. "Good, now lets go have breakfast with Shizun." Luo Binghe said brightly.
Shen Qingqiu is already dressed and presentable by the time they are back. Luo Binghe serves them breakfast, and Luo Binghe updates them on the situation in the Demonic Realm.
Near the end of breakfast Shen Qingqiu couldn't help but pat Liu Qingge's head. "I'm glad to see Liu Shidi has an appetite today," Shen Qingqiu commented, satisfied to see Liu Qingge finally eat something.
Liu Qingge flushed red and turned away while Luo Binghe grinned in triumph. Shen Qingqiu let out a soft chuckle. His husbands were so cute and he wouldn't give them up for anything.
"Liu Shishu, remember to take it easily. You've just recovered, but you haven't trained in awhile. If you feel tired, you are to tell Shizun or I right away. Is that understood?" Luo Binghe said.
"I know," Liu Qingge said, trying to stay as calm as possible. He was finally allowed to go out and fight monsters. He was ecstatic and full of energy. He could barely concentrate on what his husbands were saying and would probably break something if they didn't leave soon. "Can we go now?"
"Ok, but you're still not allowed to fly alone," Luo Binghe said.
"Liu Shidi, come fly with me." Shen Qingqiu opened his arms. "Binghe can fly with you when we come back."
"Okay, let's go!" Liu Qingge demanded impatiently.
"Liu Shidi, patience." Shen Qingqiu scolded fondly.
"Liu Shishu has been waiting so long already, let him be," Luo Binghe chuckled, just as fondly. "Fine, let's go before our husband explodes," Shen Qingqiu laughs.
However, they still did not move.
Liu Qingge gave them another look of impatience. Suddenly remember Liu Mingyan's lesson, he took ahold of a sleeve from each husband and tugged. "Husband!~" He whined, widening his eyes and puffing his mouth out with a pout.
Instantly Luo Binghe and Shen Qingqiu turned red, heart pounding. Their husband was just too cute for their heart.
"Let's go," Shen Qingqiu quickly grabbed Liu Qingge, and the three of them flew off in the speed of light.
Oh Mingyan really does know her stuff, Liu Qingge thought.
Perhaps he would have to use it again in the future.
His pride be damned.