Chapter Text
"Cucumber-bro! The rumors are wild!" Shang Qinghua exclaimed.
"Don't say it, I already know," Shen Qingqiu sighed, holding his hand up to stop him. "It's been less than forty eight hours..."
"Really? Even this one? The most wild one is that you impregnated Bing-mei and he gave birth to a six year old child the next day!" Shang Qinghua informed. "I almost believed it cause of them strong demon genes! But then I remembered that I never added mpreg in this world."
"Airplane Bro, what is wrong with your brain? Even if mpreg was possible in this world, there is no way someone can give birth to a six year old child! And didn't we already established last time that it was impossible?!" Shen Qingqiu scoffed. "Anyways, did you ever write a cure for the Human Fader curse? I don't recall reading it in your novel."
"I never put it in the novel because no one would read it for the plot cucumber bro. You're truly my fan to notice this," Shang Qinghua looked touched.
"Who's your fan?!" Shen Qingqiu scoffed. "Anyways none of that, details!" Shen Qingqiu demanded.
"It will wear off on it's own, ranging from one month to half a year. However during that time period, the person hit by the curse will be in danger. The human fader who cursed the person will always be able to trace the victim down unless the creature changes victim, gives up, or dies." Shang Qinghua said.
"We already took care of the Human Fader."
"About that, other human faders would still be able to sense the victim for a week. Who was the victim?" Shang Qinhua asked.
"Liu Shidi..."
"And who's watching him now?"
"Binghe."
"Oh, he's in good hands. Binghe is good with children and strong. He can take care of any Human Faders and none of them can enter our barriers."
"Of course," Shen Qingqiu said. "Zhangmen Shixiong and the other Peak Lords aren't going to think so though," Shen Qingqiu sighed.
"Is that why you called for a sudden meeting?"
"Yeah, have to update everyone on Liu Shidi's condition and for people to stop spreading all those ridiculous rumors." Shen Qingqiu sighed, rubbing his temples.
Shen Qingqiu and Shang Qinghua walked in to the conference hall. All the peak lords minus Liu Qingge were present.
"Xiao Jiu, I heard you have something important to say," Yue Qingyuan said, calmly.
"It's Qingqiu," Shen Qingqiu corrected. "It's regarding Liu Shidi. He's been cursed by a Human Fader."
Silence filled the air and no one spoke up from shock and confusion. How did their war god even fall for the curse?
"Where is he now?" Qi Qingqi asked, breaking the silence. "I'll inform Liu Mingyan to come back, but that would take at least a week."
"With Binghe," Shen Qingqiu informed.
A collective gasp of shock rang throughout the room. "Qingqiu Shidi... I'm not sure if it's the best idea to leave Liu Shidi with him..." Yue Qingyuan spoke up, looking rather uncomfortable.
"It's best to bring him over here so I can give him a check up." Mu Qingfang said. "I can look after him until Liu Mingyan is back."
"I'm sure Binghe and I can take care of Ming'er well," Shen Qingqiu said firmly. "But we will take you up on the check up."
"Shen Shixiong, Luo Binghe hates Liu Shidi. How can you guarantee that he won't take advantage of his vulnerable state and take his life?" Qi Qingqi questioned. "Liu Shidi may be a man, but he is Liu Mingyan's older brother. Xian Shu is willing to make an exception and take care of him until he recovers."
"My husband would never do such a thing," Shen Qingqiu defended. "Binghe and Ming'er are getting along just fine."
"You're biased!" Qi Qingqi said.
Shen Qingqiu turned around and gave Shang Qinghua a look.
"W-well Luo Binghe really wouldn't hurt a child," Shang Qinghua squeeked under Shen Qingqiu's gaze.
"And why would I believe a word of someone cozying up with Luo Binghe's demon subordinate?" Qi Qingqi snorted.
"I have called for someone to bring Luo Binghe and Liu Shidi," Yue Qingyuan announced.
A few moments later a knock was heard and Luo Binghe entered the conference room with Ming'er in his arms.
"Hi, you must be Ming'er," Yue Qingyuan greeted. "I'm Yue Qingyuan, you can call me Yue Ge or Uncle Yue."
Ming'er look at him with slight interest and nodded. "Hello," Ming'er greeted. "I heard you're very strong."
"Oh?" Yue Qingyue smiled.
"But not as strong as my hero," Ming'er said.
"Who's your hero?"
Ming'er pointed at Luo Binghe. "I don't think you're strong enough to beat him." Ming'er said indifferently.
There was another collective gasp of disbelief and shock. Liu Qingge had actually complimented Luo Binghe over the sect leader? Even if he was de-aged, wouldn't his gut instincts make him hate Luo Binghe?
"Ming'er don't be rude," Luo Binghe held in his laughter and patted Ming'er's head, "Apologize."
Ming'er scowled, unwilling to take back his words. He was only speaking the truth.
"It's fine," Yue Qingyuan dismissed. "Ming'er are you hungry?" Yue Qingyuan handed him a pastry.
Ming'er turned to look at Luo Binghe for permission. Luo Binghe nodded, smiling. "Remember to thank Zhangmen Shibo."
"Thank you Uncle Yue," Ming'er said, taking the pastry. He took a bite and frowned.
"What's wrong Ming'er?" Luo Binghe asked.
"It taste bad. I don't want it anymore," Ming'er said.
"Tastes bad?" Luo Binghe asked.
"You make better ones," Ming'er pouted.
"If Ming'er doesn't want to finish it, you don't have to." Yue Qingyuan said.
"No... I'll finish it. Can't waste food," Ming'er glanced at Luo Binghe.
"Ming'er, it's ok. I'll eat it for you," Luo Binghe patted his head.
"No, I won't let you eat something like this," Ming'er took another bite and glared at the pastry.
"Ming'er..." Luo Binghe sighed fondly.
"Ming'er give it to me, I'll eat it," Shen Qingqiu chuckled.
This time Ming'er had no complaints and gave him the pastry. Shen Qingqiu finished it in one bite with some tea. "It's not bad, but Binghe does make better ones." Shen Qingqiu said.
"Thank you," Ming'er gave him a small bow.
"Wow, he's so cute!" Everyone crowded around Ming'er, making him feel uncomfortable.
"It would be best if you all kept a comfortable distance away from him," Luo Binghe said protectively, glaring at everyone. Shen Qingqiu stood next to him with the same protective stance.
"Allow me to take his pulse," Mu Qingfang said.
Luo Binghe whispered something into Ming'er's ear and when he received confirmation, he allowed Mu Qingfang to take a look at Ming'er condition.
Mu Qingfang took his pulse. "Everything seems to be normal. He's very healthy, probably even more healthy than when he was an adult." Mu Qingfang nodded in approval.
"Ming'er, how about staying with me at Xian Shu Peak?" Qi Qingqi spoke up.
"You can stay with me at Qian Cao Peak," Mu Qingfang suggested.
Everyone started speaking up to offer their peaks.
"No, I stay with number one and two heroes," Ming'er pointed at Luo Binghe and Shen Qingqiu.
Luo Binghe looked a bit smug at everyone's crestfallen face. Shen Qingqiu hid his silent laughter behind his fan.
"Now, I think you all understand that my husband and Ming'er are very attached." Shen Qingqiu said. "Now, if you'll excuse us. We will be leaving."
Luo Binghe picked Ming'er up and left with Shen Qingqiu.
"W-wait!"
Ming'er spotted Luo Binghe's sword again and looked at it with interest. He lifted his hand to take a hold of Zheng Yang, only to be refused with a stern look. "You are not allowed to touch this," Luo Binghe said sternly.
Ming'er let out a small huff and pouted. Refusing to give in to the stern looks, he took another step forward to try to take ahold of the sword.
"No means no," Luo Binghe scolded, putting Zheng Yang far out of the child's reach.
Ming'er stubbornly ignored him and proceeded to climb up to get the sword. "You're too young to touch that!" Luo Binghe quickly picked him up and settled him in bed. "Early nap time for misbehaving!" Luo Binghe said sternly.
Ming'er let out a small indignant whine; tears follow shortly after. Luo Binghe softened and pulled him into a hug. "I told you many times before this. You know you're not allowed to touch Zheng Yang." Luo Binghe said. "You know it's dangerous right?"
"Em..." Ming'er sniffled.
"Then why do you keep ignoring my warnings?"
"C-cool and shiny," Ming'er hiccupped.
"But didn't I say you can't touch everything you find cool and shiny?" Luo Binghe asked gently. "Zheng Yang can hurt you badly."
Ming'er scowled through his tears.
"Don't give me that look Ming'er," Luo Binghe said, taking out a handkerchief to wipe the child's tears. "When you're older you can do whatever you want, but right now I'm taking care of you, so you listen to me," Luo Binghe said. "Am I understood?"
"Yes baba," Ming'er sniffled.
Luo Binghe froze and looked at him with wide eyes. "W-what did you call me?"
"Baba?" Ming'er sniffled, tilting his head.
Luo Binghe continued staring at the child without saying another word.
"Not ok?" Ming'er asked, sniffling. "But handsome and cool is baba. So you're baba!"
"No, it's ok," Luo Binghe whispered, hugging him tightly. "You can call me whatever you want to." Luo Binghe gave him a soft smile and kissed him on the forehead. Luo Binghe's heart was in chaos. He was getting so attached to his little Liu Shishu so quickly. He was afraid of being scorned by the same person when he returned to back to his normal adult form. His little Liu Shishu had always hated him and looked at him with disgust. Not to mention, he himself had almost ended his little Liu Shishu's life many times.
"Baba crying," Ming'er frowned. Ming'er didn't have his handkerchief so he raised his sleeves and wiped Luo Binghe's tears. "Baba don't be sad, I won't touch Zheng Yang again."
Luo Binghe chuckled through his tears and patted Ming'er's head, "Good boy."
Ming'er blinked, sitting still to let him pat his head. Suddenly Luo Binghe looked at Ming'er with curiosity. "Ming'er, what will you call Shizun?" Luo Binghe asked.
"Grandpa Shen!" Ming'er declared.
"Why Grandpa?" Luo Binghe almost choked on his spit.
"Because Baba respects him a lot and Grandpa Shen is lazy," Ming'er replied.
"Shizun isn't lazy, he just likes meditating and being at peace with his body. It's something that we cannot simply comprehend easily. Also Shizun is still young!" Luo Binghe explained.
"Oh, then Uncle Shen!" Ming'er declared.
"But Shizun is my husband, shouldn't you call him Shen Baba?" Luo Binghe asked.
"Oh, if Baba wants..." Ming'er said. "Baba, nap?" Ming'er asked, pulling his sleeves.
"Mn, I'll take a nap with you. Later, I'll make you steamed cakes and skewers." Luo Binghe smiled. He'll spend as much time as he could with his Liu Shishu now, and treasure these moments for the rest of his life.
Luo Binghe laid in bed and Ming'er struggled to climb on top of him. Luo Binghe chuckled, helping the boy settle on his chest. Ming'er curled up comfortably on his chest and fell right asleep. "Little Liu Shishu sure is comfortable," Luo Binghe whispered, smiling. "So cute," Luo Binghe kissed the top of his head. He pulled the blanket on top of them and closed his eyes.
Shen Qingqiu was greeted with the sight of his protective husband hugging his de-aged Liu Shidi in his sleep. Shen Qingqiu had been exhausted from another long sect meeting, however he felt rejuvenated after seeing the cute sight in front of him. He walked over and gave each of them a forehead kiss. Luo Binghe woke up from the kiss and smiled.
"Shizun!~ You're back," Luo Binghe whispered, smiling brightly.
"Mn, take your nap if you're still tired." Shen Qingqiu said.
"No, it's fine. I'm not tired. Shizun looks exhausted. Why don't you rest with Ming'er while I make you some light refreshments?" Luo Binghe whispered.
"It's fine, rest." Shen Qingqiu said. He didn't have a heart to break the cute scene in front of him. However, Luo Binghe insisted and made a move to get up. Ming'er whined in his sleep and gripped tightly on Luo Binghe's robes, refusing to let go. Luo Binghe looked at the sleeping figure and grinned.
Shen Qingqiu chuckled softly. "It looks like Binghe has no choice but to stay in bed."
"But Shizun-"
"It's fine Binghe, let's all take a nap together." Shen Qingqiu said, climbing onto the bed.
"Mn," Luo Binghe smiled brightly.
"Shen Shibo," Liu Mingyan greeted. "Where is my brother?" Liu Mingyan wore a worried expression on her face.
"Don't worry, he's fine. He's having his meal right now. Come in," Shen Qingqiu led her inside the bamboo house.
"Ge!" Liu Mingyan ran up to her de-aged brother.
The sudden shout made Ming'er confused. He looked up at Mingyan and tilted his head, "Mama?"
Liu Mingyan stopped in her tracks and turned to look at Shen Qingqiu in confusion.
"Um, he doesn't exactly have his memories," Shen Qingqiu hid behind his fan. "Call him Ming'er."
Liu Mingyan turned back to her de-aged brother and knelt by his side. "Ming'er," Liu Mingyan said softly. She wanted to squeal at how cute he was, but didn't want to scare him.
"Mama!" Ming'er said rather delighted. He climbed on top of her lap and hugged her.
"Aren't you the cutest?" Liu Mingyan said, patting his head.
"Ming'er missed mama," Ming'er said solemnly. "Where did mama go?"
"Mama had something important to take care of. I'm back now," Liu Mingyan explained. "How has Ming'er been?"
"Ming'er has been good." Ming'er said. "Baba makes me good food, and Shen baba gives me pretty things."
"Is that so?" Liu Mingyan smiled. "Then you've had your fun. Come back with Mama?"
"Ming'er wants to stay with baba for longer," Ming'er said.
"But..." Liu Mingyan sighed.
"Ming'er can stay," Luo Binghe nodded in agreements.
"He'll be fine with us," Shen Qingqiu added.
Liu Mingyan reluctantly nodded in agreement.
"Why don't you have dinner with us?" Luo Binghe offered. "We were just getting started."
Liu Mingyan nodded and accepted the meal. "Thanks for taking care of my little big brother," Liu Mingyan said.
"No problem, he brightens up our day," Shen Qingqiu said. Liu Mingyan smiled and fed Ming'er chicken. Ming'er was fed by all three of them so he didn't even have to pick up his chopsticks.
"Baba cooks the best. Mama should try too," Ming'er finally picked up his chopsticks. He fed Liu Mingyan a piece of meat.
The meat was tender and the delicate flavor melted in her mouth. It was just to her liking. "Luo Shixiong truly is a excellent cook," Liu Mingyan praised.
"Liu Shimei, thanks for your praise. You can come visit Ming'er as often as you want and I'll be happy to accommodate you with a meal," Luo Binghe said. Liu Mingyan made Ming'er happy and Luo Binghe wanted Ming'er to always be happy.
"Many thanks Luo Shixiong," Liu Mingyan said.
"Binghe looks very happy today," Shen Qingqiu commented.
"Shizun, look! I just finished making it last night," Luo Binghe said, holding up a wooden sword. "How does it look?"
Shen Qingqiu looked at the wooden sword with a soft smile. The wooden sword was very detailed and even had it's own sheathe. There was a fan shaped tassel made of white gold and sapphires hanging from the hilt of the sword. "It is beautiful. Ming'er would love this," Shen Qingqiu smiled.
"Shizun, you really think he'll like it?"
"Of course Binghe," Shen Qingqiu patted his head.
"I'll wake him up for breakfast and give it to him after." Luo Binghe beamed in response.
Shen Qingqiu nodded a waved him off with a smile. It was great to see Luo Binghe care so much for his little Liu Shishu.
Luo Binghe walked over to the bed and gently woke up the sleeping child. "Ming'er, wake up for breakfast."
Ming'er furrowed his eyebrows in his sleep and lifted the covers over his head. Luo Binghe chuckled and took the covers off of him. "Ming'er," Luo Binghe carried him in his arms, gently rocking him and patting his back. "Wake up," Luo Binghe sang softly in his ears.
"Good Morning baba," Ming'er greeted, sleepily. He wrapped his arms around Luo Binghe's neck.
"Good morning Ming'er." Luo Binghe smiled. "I have a surprise for you later."
"Surprise?" Ming'er blinked sleepily.
"Yes, I'll give it to you after breakfast." Luo Binghe said, helping him change his clothes. "Made you your favorite congee."
"Youtiao too?" Liu Qingge perked up.
"Yes, but don't eat too many. Too many fried foods gave you a stomachache last time," Luo Binghe said.
"Okay," Ming'er nodded.
"Now lets get you dressed and ready for breakfast!~" Luo Binghe sang.
Ming'er was a lot calmer and obedient than most children his age. He made no fuss at getting changed and even did most of the dressing himself.
"Ming'er is so skilled!" Luo Binghe praised when Ming'er made a small side braid, and tied his hair up into a ponytail.
Ming'er looked wordlessly at him from the praise, neither smiling or jumping in happiness from the praise. Luo Binghe had noticed Ming'er was not that expressive when praised, but he still wanted his little Liu Shishu to know how well he was doing.
"You'll be a very talented man when you grow," Luo Binghe said, patting his head. That had gotten a reaction from Ming'er.
Ming'er looked up and smiled, "like baba!"
Slightly startled from the response, Luo Binghe flushed red. No matter how many times his little Liu Shishu praised him privately, he still felt touched each time. "Like me?" Luo Binghe said.
"Mn! Baba talented, strong, handsome, and cool!" Ming'er said.
"..."
"Baba?" Ming'er tilted his head questioningly.
"Ming'er!" Luo Binghe bawled, glomping him.
Ming'er stiffened, startled from the response. I made baba cry again... Ming'er thought, frowning to himself. A few tears leaked through his eyes and he lost control of them. His soft, barely audible sniffles soon became full on sobbing.
"Ming'er??" Luo Binghe cried out in confusion through his happy tears.
"Why're both of you crying?" Shen Qingqiu walked in confused.
Ming'er raised his arms to him. Shen Qingqiu picked him up in confusion. As much as I like holding him, Little Liu Shidi likes to be carried by Binghe. Why would he want me to pick him up instead? What happened here?
"What's wrong Ming'er?" Shen Qingqiu asked.
"Did I hug you too hard?" Luo Binghe asked worriedly.
"..." Ming'er turned away, unresponsive.
"Ming'er please tell us what's wrong. We won't know unless you tell us." Shen Qingiu said.
"..."
"Ming'er, I'm sorry," Luo Binghe said, sniffling.
"No!" Ming'er cried out.
"No?"
"I made baba cry... Ming'er is sorry," Ming'er said, despondently.
"Ming'er, oh Ming'er, these are happy tears," Luo Binghe explained.
"Happy?" Ming'er asked in confusion.
"Mn, I was touched to tears because your words made me so happy," Luo Binghe said.
"Touched?" Ming'er blinked.
"It when something someone does or says makes you feel warm and happy inside." Luo Binghe explained.
"Yes, you must have said something very nice to Binghe," Shen Qingqiu said soothingly.
"Ming'er said he wanted to be cool and talented like me when he grew up. It made me happy," Luo Binghe said.
"So not sad?" Ming'er asked.
"Not sad. Happy, very happy," Luo Binghe smiled spreading his arms towards him. Shen Qingqiu smiled and gently placed Ming'er into his arms.
"Now clean your faces and let's have breakfast," Shen Qingqiu shook his head fondly.
"Yes Shizun," Luo Binghe beamed. Ming'er nodded.
They freshened up and had a pleasant breakfast. Luo Binghe and Shen Qingqiu made sure Ming'er didn't eat too much Youtiao. Ming'er made no fuzz of it, knowing that they didn't want him to have a stomachache from eating too many again.
After breakfast Luo Binghe handed Ming'er the wooden sword he had carved for him.
"For me?" Ming'er eyes shined with excitement.
"Mn, the surprise I promised. I made it myself," Luo Binghe said. "How does my Ming'er like it?"
Ming'er unsheathed the wooden sword and imitated the time Luo Binghe slashed the beast to rescue him and said, "Good sword," Ming'er nodded in approval. "I like it very much! Thank you baba," Ming'er smiled.
"As long as Ming'er likes it," Luo Binghe grinned.
"Liu Shi- I mean Ming'er, what has displeased you?" Ming Fan asked. "Is it that Demon Luo Binghe?" Ming Fan asked.
Ming'er scowled at him and repeatedly whacked him with his wooden sword.
Luo Binghe had to take off to the demon realm for an important matter. Shen Qingqiu had originally been looking after Ming'er but then he was suddenly summoned for a meeting. Shen Qingqiu did not want Ming'er to be bored at the meeting, nor did he want all the peak lords to crown around Ming'er again.
Ming Fan happily volunteered to look after Ming'er so Shen Qingqiu temporarily allow him to do so while sending disciples to bring Liu Mingyan and Yang Yixuan. Shen Qingqiu wanted Ming'er to be with people he was familiar and felt safe with. Ming Fan had taken the chance to try to get into his Liu Shishu's good graces when waiting for Liu Mingyan and Yang Yixuan to come. He knew Liu Qingge's adult form hated Luo Binghe, and he was sure his child self was forced to stick to Luo Binghe so he insulted Luo Binghe in front of Ming'er's face to try to get him to smile.
He had not expect Ming'er to become so angry and hit him with a wooden sword. Ming Fan had underestimated Ming'er's hate for the demon and didn't dodge the hits no matter how much they hurt. "I apologize for staining your ears with his name when he's not here. I know you were forced," Ming Fan said sympathetically.
Ming'er scowled at him again and hit him harder.
"Ming'er, why're you so angry?" Liu Mingyan arrived to the scene in confusion.
"Mama," Ming'er ceased his attacks and looked at her with tears.
"Ming'er?" Liu Mingyan picked him up and cooed. "What's wrong?"
"He's a bad man! He insulted baba! I don't like him," Ming'er said.
"Liu Shimei, I'll leave him in your care," Ming Fan paled and ran. He bumped right into Yang Yixuan who looked at him in confusion.
"Yixuan gege!" Ming'er perked up in Liu Mingyan's arms. "Fight me!"
"I won't go easy on you," Yang Yixuan grinned, taking out a wooden practice sword.
Liu Mingyan chuckled and settled Ming'er on the floor to watch them train.
After a few moments, Ming'er had tackled Yang Yixuan onto the floor and pointed his wooden sword in the air proudly. "I have slain the monster."
Liu Mingyan politely clapped while Yang Yixuan played dead. "You may all call me Young Hero Luo," Ming'er declared.
"It's Liu," Liu Mingyan coughed as a reminder.
"Young Hero Liu," Ming'er corrected.
"Will Young Hero Liu have a match with me?" Liu Mingyan asked.
"Of course!" Ming'er said, climbing off of Yang Yixuan's chest.
"Did Ming'er have fun today?" Shen Qingqiu asked, bending down to hug him.
"Yes!" Ming'er said returning the hug. "But I don't like that bad man!" Ming'er frowned.
"Bad man?" Shen Qingqiu questioned.
"It seems Ming Fan Shixiong has insulted Luo Shixiong so Ming'er is very angry at him," Liu Mingyan informed.
"Did he now? I thought he would be better now," Shen Qingqiu frowned, petting Ming'er's head. "Don't worry Ming'er, I won't let him stay alone with you again.
"If I see him again, the sword baba made me is waiting for him," Ming'er declared heroically. "Ming'er is not scared of him!"
"Ming'er..." Shen Qingqiu sweatdropped. "No, you cannot hit him as you please."
Ming'er scowled at that, clearly displeased.
"It's okay, I will request a duel and win for you!" Yang Yixuan whispered in Ming'er's ears.
"Okay," Ming'er nodded in content.
A portal opened and Luo Binghe arrived with Mobei Jun. Luo Binghe dismissed him and Mobei Jun reopened the portal and left. "Shizun!~ Ming'er!~ I've missed you." Luo Binghe sang.
"Baba!" Ming'er was the first in Luo Binghe's arms.
"Ming'er!" Luo Binghe hugged him tightly.
"Binghe," Shen Qingqiu greeted with a slight smile.
"Shizun!~" Luo Binghe pulled him into a hug. Shen Qingqiu returned the hug and gently patted his head.
Luo Binghe finally greeted Liu Mingyan and Yang Yixuan.
"I'll go prepare dinner for us. I'll be quick," Luo Binghe said.
"Baba leaving again..." Ming'er frowned.
"Ming'er can take his bath and soon baba will be back," Luo Binghe gave him a forehead kiss.
With the help of Yang Yixuan and Shen Qingqiu, Ming'er was freshly bathed. Ming'er dressed himself and allowed Liu Mingyan to do his hair.
A few moments later Luo Binghe walked in with a large tray of food. Ming'er climbed onto Luo Binghe's lap as soon as he sat down. Luo Binghe smiled at him and picked up a piece of chicken. He blew on it until it was cool enough and fed it to Ming'er. In return Ming'er did the same. Luo Binghe's heart burst into happiness and he hugged Ming'er again.
"Ming'er was just here! Where could he have gone?" Shen Qingqiu asked. They had decided to take Ming'er out of Cang Qiong Sect for a change of scenery. They had looked away for one second and he was gone.
"Ming'er!" Luo Binghe called out. After asking around for a few minutes, a nice uncle mentioned seeing Ming'er run towards the woods. They quickly thanks him and ran towards the direction. Thankfully it wasn't too far and they found Ming'er within a few minutes.
"Ming'er," Luo Binghe said sternly.
"Don't run off like that," Shen Qingqiu chided.
"Shhhh," Ming'er hushed them. Luo Binghe and Shen Qingqiu grew quiet. Laying in Ming'er's lap was a cat?
They looked closely and Shen Qingqiu let out a gasp of shock and joy. "It's a spiritual winged snow leopard cub! These are very rare! They can summon water and ice, leap through dimensions, and fly! When they are powerful enough, they can change sizes! They are super fast and strong! Not to mention rare!" Shen Qingqiu whispered in excitement. "But what's it doing here alone?" Shen Qingqiu asked.
"I saw Snow come over here. He's hurt and was hungry," Ming'er explained. "I gave him my skewer and we became friends. I don't have anything to wrap his paws with so I used the new handkerchief baba made for me. Is that ok?" Ming'er looked a bit guilty.
"It's ok, I'll make you another one," Luo Binghe smiled. "But next time don't run off like that."
"Okay," Ming'er nodded. "Can we bring Snow home with us?"
"Usually they don't leave their cubs alone. Something must have happened for the cub to be running around on it's own." Shen Qingqiu said. "I think it's fine if we bring him back." Luo Binghe nodded in agreement.
"Thank you baba and baba Shen."
Ming'er tried to pick the cub up, but it was too heavy for him. He pouted and stared at Luo Binghe. Luo Binghe chuckled and swooped them both up into his arms. "Let's go home! If Snow wakes up, I have more raw meat in my qiankun pouch." Luo Binghe smiled.
Halfway through the trip Snow woke up and became violent when he saw a stranger holding him. "Snow, baba is a good person," Ming'er said. Snow calmed down seeing a familiar face. Shen Qingqiu took out some meat and gave it to Ming'er to feed to Snow. Snow happily ate his food and purred in content.
Within a week, Snow and Ming'er became the best of friends. They were inseparable and always together. Snow had taken a liking to scaring Ming Fan away whenever he was anywhere near Ming'er. Snow was nice to anyone who was in Ming'er's good graces and mean to anyone Ming'er showed any type of dissatisfaction with. Snow also started helping Ming'er deliver herbs and flowers to Luo Binghe and Shen Qingqiu every week. Snow and Ming'er were always rewarded with smiles and snacks in return.
Ming'er liked taking naps on Luo Binghe's chest so Snow would climb onto his chest to nap too. Shen Qingqiu could only sigh fondly at them. He couldn't even be jealous because they were so cute.
In a month Snow grew too big to lay on Luo Binghe's chest so Ming'er would lay on Luo Binghe's chest one day and curl around Snow another day. Occasionally, Ming'er would sleep in Shen Qingqiu's arms too.
"Cucumber bro, it's rare to see you alone."
"Airplane bro, If you didn't beg me so much to come check out your latest story and give you feedback, I wouldn't be here," Shen Qingqiu said. "I would feel bad for your readers if I didn't take a look. Now where's the book?" Shen Qingqiu tapped his fan impatiently.
"Now, now cucumber bro, I haven't exactly written it down yet."
"What do you mean you haven't written it yet?" Shen Qingqiu demanded. "Why am I even here?" Shen Qingqiu got up to leave.
"Wait, Cucumber bro, you can't leave. I haven't written it but it's all in my head and I need your opinion!" Shang Qinghua said. "Come on Cucumber bro, only you would understand."
"..."
"I have this dessert from the demon realm."
"Be quick about it," Shen Qingqiu sat back down.
"So in my story, this cultivator has liked this ice demon for years and wants to do something to express it," Shang Qinghua started.
"And you mean this is fiction?" Shen Qingqiu interrupted him.
"Of course."
"Do you think I'm dumb Airplane bro?" Shen Qingqiu said. "You're clearly asking about yourself and Mobei Jun!"
"Am I that obvious?"
"Yes, and I can't believe you still think you're single."
"Like I've said before, we aren't together..."
"Keep telling yourself that!"
"It's Shizun's birthday soon. Want to make him a present together?" Luo Binghe asked.
Ming'er nodded with determination. "I made a frame for a fan out of bamboo. Now we just have draw or write on this and paste it on the frame." Luo Binghe smiled. "What do you want to write or draw?"
"Draw sword!" Ming'er said, taking a brush to draw a sword. It was a bit sloppy, but still neater than the average six year old drawings. "Write strong Shen Baba!" Ming'er said.
"Do you know how to write that?"
"No," Ming'er shook his head.
"I'll help you," Luo Binghe took his hand in his and helped him practice until he got it.
"Baba, write together," Ming'er said.
"Okay," Luo Binghe smiled, guiding him to write the characters. Snow made a sound and Ming'er looked at Luo Binghe.
"Baba, I think Snow wants to help make the gift for Shen Baba."
"That's fine, we can make it a two sided fan," Luo Binghe chuckled and let Snow dip his paws into ink and stamp a different sheet. When everything dried, he pasted them on the frame and smiled.
"Don't let Shizun know, it's a surprise for his birthday."
Ming'er and Snow nodded seriously and kept true to their word. When Shen Qingqiu came back from spending sometime with Shang Qinghua and asked them how their day was, Ming'er responded, "good," with no elaboration.
"What did Ming'er do today?" Shen Qingqiu asked. Usually Ming'er would have told him already, but today he did not. Shen Qingqiu was confused and looked at Luo Binghe questioningly. Luo Binghe could only smile at him innocently.
"Binghe?"
"Shizun, what would you like for dinner today?" Luo Binghe changed the subject.
"Everything Binghe makes is good," Shen Qingqiu said, amused. He would wait and see how long it takes for them to give in and expose whatever they were trying to hide.
A week later Shen Qingqiu finally found out what they were hiding. He was gifted the fan for his birthday and although it was not perfect, it became his favorite fan to date. It was full of love and made him feel warm.
"This is perfect. Thank you Binghe, Ming'er, and Snow," Shen Qingqiu smiled, gathering them into his arms.
The day after Shen Qingqiu's birthday, Liu Qingge was startled awake in the middle of the night. He had grown back to his adult form with his all of his memories intact. Flushing red, he carefully climbed out of Luo Binghe's arms and got dressed. He took his belongings and ran out of the bamboo hut. Snow woke up and dashed after him. They didn't realize Luo Binghe had woken up and stared at them blankly as they left in a hurry.
Liu Qingge laid in his own bed unable to fall back asleep. He was lost in his thoughts, not knowing how to react the next time he saw Luo Binghe and Shen Qingqiu. He could play dumb and pretend he has forgotten everything as Ming'er, but Liu Qingge was never a good liar.
His time with Shen Qingqiu and Luo Binghe had been quite pleasant and he did not know how things would be from now on. He does not see them as his parents, and never would, but he couldn't be sure what and how they would view him as from now on. Snow, sensing that Liu Qingge was in distress, curled protectively around him.
Liu Qingge petted him to thank him.
In the morning, Luo Binghe arrived, looking a bit worn out. His eyes were slightly red. "Luo Binghe... What are you doing here?" Liu Qingge questioned.
"Liu Shishu left in such a rush and left your sword."
"No, I..." Liu Qingge paused, flushing red. He had grabbed his sword, but the wrong sword. He had grabbed the wooden sword Luo Binghe had made for Ming'er. He reach out and took Cheng Luan and nodded in thanks.
"Will Liu Shishu let me in?" Luo Binghe asked.
Liu Qingge stepped aside and let him in. Luo Binghe sat down and took out a qiankun pouch. "Has Liu Shishu eaten yet?"
Liu Qingge shook his head and stared at him with with discomfort.
"I made you all of your favorites," Luo Binghe took out boxes of food. "Don't worry Snow, I have all of your favorite meat in here." Luo Binghe took out another box and opened it for Snow. Snow happily ate while Luo Binghe and Liu Qingge had a stare down.
"Liu Shishu," Luo Binghe pushed a bowl of congee and plate of youtiao to him. He proceeded to place a plate of steamed cakes and a plate of dumplings next to them.
Liu Qingge stared at the food, hesitant to take it.
"Shizun cried," Luo Binghe said, averting his gaze.
"He cried?..." Spending so much time with them, Liu Qingge knew the one who cried was Luo Binghe and not Shen Qingqiu.
"He's worried."
"I'm not a child!" Liu Qingge scowled, frustrated.
"We know you're not..." Luo Binghe said.
"..."
They did not speak another word to each other, but Luo Binghe remained until Liu Qingge finished his congee.
Liu Mingyan arrived a little before noon.
"What are you doing here?" Liu Qingge asked, trying to close the door. Liu Mingyan stuck her foot at the door to stop him from shutting it in front of her face.
"Ge, you're back" Liu Mingyan sighed in disappointment. "Ming'er was so cute."
"Get out," Liu Qingge said, eyebrows twitching.
"Rude! Ming'er would never treat his mama like this!" Liu Mingyan tsked.
"..." Liu Qingge flushed red, completely mortified. He let Liu Mingyan in and passed her a plate of leftover steamed cakes from breakfast.
"This isn't enough to bribe me," Liu Mingyan said, taking a bite and smiling in delight. "Luo Shixiong's a really good cook. By the way, I heard you ran away in the middle of the night without saying a word to them. Also heard that Luo Shixiong came this morning and left in low spirits."
"..."
"Ming'er would disown you."
"Get out."
"No, I plan to stay for lunch," Liu Mingyan said, brushing the crumbs off her fingers.
"Why?" Liu Qingge looked at her suspiciously.
"I'm sure Luo Shixiong will make you more than enough for lunch. Don't be stingy, even Ming'er knows how to share," Liu Mingyan said.
"..." Liu Qingge frowned. "Why would he?"
"Stop lying to yourself Ge."
True to Liu Mingyan's words, Luo Binghe did make way more food than Liu Qingge could consume on his own. Yang Yixuan delivered the food and joined the Liu siblings for lunch.
After lunch Shen Qinggqiu showed up and Liu Qingge let him in without a word. Shen Qingqiu silently sipped his tea, eyes staring into Liu Qingge's unwilling ones. Liu Qingge tried to look away but Shen Qingqiu's firm gaze made him unable to.
"Are you?..."
"Am I what?"
"Angry..."
"Liu Shidi, no one is angry at you. We just wish you could have given us a heads up that you'd leave in the middle of the night." Shen Qingqiu sighed.
"I..."
"Binghe cried for for two shichens after you left. He cried again after he visited you this morning. "
"..."
"Liu Shidi, he's worried about the same things you are. Just give us a chance and don't run away," Shen Qingqiu said.
"I need time," Liu Qingge hesitated, "but I won't run."
"Liu Shidi, I'll leave you to think on it. I don't want to leave Binghe alone for too long." Shen Qingqiu got up to leave. "Don't leave us waiting for too long Liu Shidi." Shen Qingqiu patted his shoulder comfortingly and left.
That night Liu Qingge received a homemade meal from Luo Binghe again. And every day since then, Yang Yixuan would deliver him three meals a day from Luo Binghe. Liu Qingge thought Luo Binghe would get tired of sending him food at one point, but months passed and he showed no signs of stopping.
Liu Qingge wasn't an ungrateful person, but he didn't know how to repay Luo Binghe and Shen Qingqiu for caring for him. He had bought a new handkerchief for Luo Binghe and a new fan for Shen Qingqiu, but it just felt weird to give it to them.
As if knowing what Liu Qingge was thinking, Snow came brought him a basket. It was the basket he would pick flowers and herbs in and give to Snow to deliver to Shen Qingqiu and Luo Binghe when he was Ming'er. Liu Qingge stared at the basket and then at Snow's expectant face and sighed. Liu Qingge placed the fan and handkerchief in the basket, and gathered some herbs and flowers to place on top of them. Snow eagerly took the basket and dashed off to send his gifts.
Snow came back with not only a basket of treats, but Shen Qingqiu and Luo Binghe too.
"Tea?" Liu Qingge asked.
"We would like that, wouldn't we Binghe?" Shen Qingqiu smiled.
"I... Yes!" Luo Binghe looked closed to tears.
A few months later, Liu Qingge found himself on a hunt with Snow, Luo Binghe, and Shen Qingqiu. Snow had gotten strong enough to transform to a size big enough to fit the three of them comfortably on his back.
"I made some dumplings and steamed cakes," Luo Binghe paused midway while taking out some snacks he made for the trip. Shen Qingqiu and Liu Qingge eyed him with confusion, but he did not look away from where he was staring. Shen Qingqiu and Liu Qingge followed his eyes to Liu Qingge's belt.
Liu Qingge touched the tassel on his belt and said, "I don't use the wooden sword as much anymore. It's a waste to leave it there."
"Liu Shishu..." Luo Binghe pulled him into an embrace and grinned. "You still kept it?"
"It's a good sword!" Liu Qingge defended.
"I heard Liu Shidi hit Ming Fan a lot with the wooden sword back then to defend Binghe," Shen Qingqiu provided.
"Did he now?" Luo Binghe looked amused.
"Ming'er just did what any six year old child would do," Liu Qingge huffed. "I'm not that childish."
"Bai Zhan disciples have been coming often to challenge Ming Fan to a duel. I would appreciate it if they didn't try to kill my disciple every time," Shen Qingqiu commented.
Liu Qingge flushed red and turned away.
"Liu Shishu is so sweet," Luo Binghe chuckled, gathering him in his arms again.
"Liu Shidi doesn't have to be shy about his affections," Shen Qingqiu chuckled, patting Liu Qingge's head.
Liu Qingge scowled at them, only to receive chuckles of amusement in return.
"Snow, what do you want to eat?" Liu Qingge asked. Snow stared down a green monster with a horn and Liu Qingge charged down to slash it with Cheng Luan. Snow happily leap for the carcass and chomped away.
"Liu Shishu is biased!" Luo Binghe crossed his arms.
"..."
"Liu Shishu, aren't you going to ask Binghe what he wants to eat?" Luo Binghe nudged him.
"You can hunt what you want yourself," Liu Qingge said.
"Snow can too!" Luo Binghe pointed out. "Liu Shishu isn't playing fair. Ming'er would–"
"What does Binghe want to eat?" Liu Qingge cut him off with a sigh.
"Binghe wants to eat whatever Shizun and Liu Shishu wants to eat," Luo Binghe beamed.
"Shen Qingqiu," Liu Qingge and Luo Binghe looked at him expectantly.
"That purple triangle monster with wings looks interesting," Shen Qingqiu pointed at it with his fan and then went back to play with the small fluffy white monster he had captured.
"Liu Shishu, I think that would taste good," Luo Binghe agreed.
"Snow," Liu Qingge jumped onto his back and flew towards the blob to slay it. Unexpectedly the monster exploded into goo after it was slayed. Snow whined and jumped into the river with Liu Qingge still on his back. Liu Qingge scowled in disgust. He was covered in goo and soaked wet from the river.
Luo Binghe chuckled and pulled him out of the river. "I think we should end our hunt early today, we have more than enough meat to last a week."
"Shen Qingqiu... Did you?..." Liu Qingge gazed at him questioningly.
"Sorry Liu Shidi... I didn't expect..." Shen Qingqiu stifled his laughter behind his fan and wiped Liu Qingge's face with a handkerchief.
"Liu Shishu, you said you'd stay tonight!"
"The bed is too small!"
"We already changed the bed to a bigger one after you and Snow broke it from wrestling," Luo Binghe said.
"We were exercising." Liu Qingge said. "And Snow needs a bigger bed."
"Snow can transform sizes," Shen Qingqiu commented, lounging in bed. Snow eagerly bounced around and transformed small enough to fit into Liu Qingge's arms.
"Traitor," Liu Qingge muttered.
"What's wrong with staying over your boyfriends' house?" Luo Binghe crossed his arms. "It's not like you haven't stayed the night before."
"It was different then..." Liu Qingge said.
"Well you'll have to get used to it, because we want to share the bed with you everyday when you get married to us."
"Married?"
"Why? You don't want to?"
"I'll think about it."
"What does Liu Shishu have to think about?" Luo Binghe asked. "Who else are you thinking of if not Shizun and I?"
Liu Qingge didn't respond and joined Shen Qingqiu in bed. Snow happily curled between them. Shen Qingqiu laughed, petting both of them on the head.
"Liu Shishu, don't ignore me," Luo Binghe pouted. "Who else are you thinking of?"
Liu Qingge did not reply and hid his smile in Shen Qingqiu's chest.
"Liu Shishu!" Luo Binghe whined, climbing into bed next to Liu Qingge. "Shizun, why are you laughing?"
"Liu Shidi is only doing what Binghe does the most to Liu Shidi," Shen Qingqiu chuckled.
"..." Luo Binghe stared at Liu Qingge's back and tackled him. "Liu Shishu, how can you be so cruel to tease Binghe like that!" Luo Binghe whined.
"Next year," Liu Qingge replied, pulling away from him.
"Really Liu Shidi? You've thought about what we said?" Shen Qingqiu smiled, hugging him.
Liu Qingge nodded with a soft smile.
"Next year?" Luo Binghe asked.
"What you asked earlier," Liu Qingge turned away.
"Marriage?" Luo Binghe beamed and wrapped his arms around both of them. "Liu Shishu! Shizun and I love you! We will plan the best wedding for you."
"I know," Liu Qingge said.
"Let's start planning right now. What flowers would Liu Shishu like at the wedding? " Luo Binghe said.
"Binghe... it's late. Let's sleep and plan later," Shen Qingqiu shook his head fondly.
"But..."
"Binghe..."
"Okay Shizun," Luo Binghe laid down in bed.
"Luo Binghe... let go..."
"But Liu Shishu, I need to measure your waist and shoulders to make the best wedding robes for you."
"Your hand doesn't need to get any lower!" Liu Qingge whacked him.
"I need proper measurements!"
"..."
"Liu Shishu, don't give me that look." Luo Binghe tsked. "Ming'er would be ashamed of you."
"Speaking of Ming'er, I never knew Liu Shidi had such a hero worship when he was younger." Shen Qingqiu commented, slightly amused.
"I... did not," Liu Qingge denied, flushing.
"Don't be embarrassed Liu Shidi, I'm sure we all had our heros when we were young. I really liked Kamen Rider when I was younger and worshipped them," Shen Qingqiu said.
"..."
"Shizun worshipped who?" Luo Binghe frowned, glaring at the wall.
"Binghe... Are you jealous?" Shen Qingqiu sighed. "They aren't real and I was a kid!"
"Shizun! Was your hero handsome?" Luo Binghe pouted.
"Well, I guess it depends on which one you're talking about..."
"You mean there is more than one?!" Luo Binghe cried out in dismay.
"Binghe..." Shen Qingqiu said exasperated. "There is nothing to be jealous about."
Liu Qingge smacked the back of Luo Binghe's head and looked away to feign disinterest. "He said there is nothing to be jealous about."
Luo Binghe pouted until Shen Qingqiu gave him a quick kiss.
"Let's sleep now. Snow looks ready to jump us anytime for making so much noise," Shen Qingqiu sighed sleepily. "Good night Binghe, good night Liu Shidi, good night Snow.
"Good night Shizun! Good night Liu Shishu! Good night Snow!"
Snow climbed onto Liu Qingge's chest and curled comfortably on top of his chest to sleep.
Liu Qingge did not say anything but welcomed Luo Binghe and Shen Qingqiu's hands in his own. He could get used to this.