Archive of Our Own ^beta

“I think I might want to share you... just for a night.”

Those were the words that greeted Jin Zixun when he entered the room at their usual inn before he'd even had a chance to finish stepping over the threshold. He'd looked to where his lover sat, absently contemplating the painting on his folding fan as he waited for Jin Zixun to close the door.

“Where did this come from?” he returned, because they had spent many hours going over what each of them wanted from this arrangement of theirs, and never before had this particular subject come up.

“Well, I've been thinking...”

“That must have hurt,” he snarked, already irritable after a week of bullshit from his uncle's political plays and his cousin's wedding plans and fucking Jin Guangyao, the latter of which still hadn't figured out his place and was determined to stick his finger in everyone else's business.

Nie Huaisang's withering glare said that had Jin Zixun been undressed and ready for their session, he would have earned a beating for that one. “So I've made some arrangements for tonight.”

Jin Zixun stopped mid-way across the room, his fingers curling into fists. “You've made arrangements?!”

Nie Huaisang blinked. “Are you opposed? You know everything would be cancelled with but a single word.” He glanced down to Jin Zixun's fists. “If you need to let off some steam before you decide, I placed a set of dishes in the bathroom, the kind you like so much that make a very satisfying sound when they break.”

Jin Zixun stormed across the room and slammed the bathroom door shut behind him. He threw his travel sack to the floor and spotted the dishes in the corner, then with all the anger he felt down to his toes, he picked up each cup and saucer one by one and shattered them against the bathroom wall. Nie Huaisang knew he hated change, and after the week he'd had, all he wanted was to take his clothes off and leave himself behind for a few hours with no thought but for the collar around his neck and the flogger whipping his skin.

But now he was faced with this ridiculous request. Why? Why now? Was he no longer enough for Nie Huaisang of all people? Was this a way to foist him upon someone else so that Nie Huaisang would be more comfortable ending their arrangement?

Once the last dish broke into a dozen pieces, he was finally calm enough to think more clearly. Was he even open to being shared? With whom? And how? He opened the door and stared at his lover, who hadn't moved an inch from where he was sitting far too casually.

“What would this entail?”

Nie Huaisang's smile was too knowing. “I want to tie you up and cover your entire face so that your identity is hidden, and I will bring in a friend of mine for a very important lesson.” Jin Zixun lifted an eyebrow. “My friend has no experience in sex of any kind and I want to help them. I don't believe they will want to do more than touch you as I believe they are saving themselves for their wedding night... which is the very reason the lesson is so important, because they fear not being able to please their partner in bed.”

So he wasn't being foisted off on someone else – he ignored the relief that spread through him.

“Do I know them? Is it a man or a woman?”

“Are those things you need to know to make your decision?” Nie Huaisang began waving his folding fan over his chest. “I would prefer not to say because I will also be giving them the opportunity to hide their identity, though they will also be allowed to waive it if they wish.”

Jin Zixun grimaced. He wasn't attracted to women – oh, he'd pretended often enough for his uncle's benefit, had even slept with a few courtesans and merchants' daughters for the sake of appearances, but he'd spent the whole time picturing them as slim men with extra curves. The idea of being touched by a woman again did nothing for him... but it might not be a woman. And even if it were... there might be some appeal to being touched by someone who had no idea who he was. Particularly if they revealed who they were, giving him an advantage over them.

But the idea of his night of release being used as someone else's sexual education... “And that's all that's happening tonight? Me getting felt up by some virgin without a clue of what to do in bed?”

Nie Huaisang's fan stopped and he made an exaggerated pout. “What's wrong? Did our little XunXun have a rough week?”

Jin Zixun sneered and resisted the urge to put his fist through the wall. “Don't call me that,” he ground out.

His lover rose onto his feet and came over, tapping Jin Zixun's chest with the blade of his fan. “I promise, unless you use your word, I will end the night by reddening your skin in the most wonderful way – whether with my guest present to witness, or once they have left. I won't let you suffer another few weeks until your next session. Is this acceptable?”

His fist finally loosened. He could put up with much to get what he wanted out of these encounters, and to be honest, the idea may have started to grow on him – though just a little bit.

Finally, he nodded. “What do you need me to do to prepare?”

“Nothing more than usual. Clean yourself thoroughly and return to me naked with your collar on. I've brought everything else we need.” Nie Huaisang leaned up to bring their lips together, the sensual touch relaxing Jin Zixun, at least until the fan smacked against his rump. “Now get back in the bathroom... and clean up the broken dishes while you're at it.”

Less than an hour later, Jin Zixun came out of the bathroom naked as the day he was born but for the green leather collar around his neck. The moment the buckle had been fastened, he'd felt his mind begin to relax and focus on thoughts of Nie Huaisang and what they would do together, rather than the more aggravating aspects of his 'normal' life outside the bedroom. As long as he was collared, he gave himself up to the only person he trusted to make decisions for him (however unlikely a trust that was). He noticed that his lover was still seated but was now dressed down with but a thin silver robe covering him, fastened by a leather belt that had on occasion been used to redden Jin Zixun's skin.

He approached the chair where Nie Huaisang sat and went down to his knees, lowering his gaze to look at the floor. The tip of a closed fan tilted his head back up and Nie Huaisang looked down on him with pride and fondness.

“You do so look good on your knees.”

“Fuck you,” he spat, in part because he was a brat at heart, in part because he wanted to see the soft look gone from his lover's eyes.

He was answered with the smack of a hand across his cheek. “You're always so mouthy.”

“Well if you were really in charge, you'd know how to shut me up properly,” he taunted.

This time it was the closed fan that met his cheek, causing it to sting.. “Open.”

“You first-”

Nie Huaisang's fingers gripped Jin Zixun's jaw, a thumb forcing its way into his mouth and pulling his lips open. With his other hand, he held up a ball gag and gave Jin Zixun a significant look. “What's your word?”

“Ruohan,” he replied seriously, the word coming out mumbled around his lover's thumb.

“I want you gagged tonight – for your protection, because if this person knows you, they would know your voice. If you don't want it, say so now – otherwise, our usual rules will apply.” Jin Zixun said nothing in response and the soft ball was stuffed into his mouth. It took but moments for the straps holding it in place to be tied well and securely.

“Now get over onto the bed.”

Jin Zixun stood up and gave Nie Huaisang a rude gesture. The other man shoved him over to the bed where he landed willingly. He tried not to make it easy for his lover as Nie Huaisang manipulated him onto his back, grabbing his limbs and putting them in padded shackles. Jin Zixun tested their strength and was pleased with how well they would hold, and with his mouth occupied and arms and legs tied down, his mind began to sink into the feeling of freedom that came from giving himself completely to the experience.

Something familiar was placed in his hand – a writing brush. “You remember the rule. If you want anything to stop, you drop the brush. Otherwise we'll keep going.” Jin Zixun nodded.

Next came something that was completely new. Nie Huaisang brought over a stretch of black linen and placed it over Jin Zixun's lower face, securing it over his nose and the gag, all the way past his chin. It was tied and secured, quickly followed by another that was folded over several times and placed over his eyes. His hair was pulled together and tied up high before one final piece of cloth was secured over his face.

He breathed in deeply, and exhaled slowly. The fabric didn't hamper his breathing at all, and it would be dark enough that he wouldn't be able to see through it – and their visitor would not be able to see his features either.

There was a knock at the door. Jin Zixun heard Nie Huaisang walk away, and then there was silence. He breathed evenly and tried to listen for any sounds but all he could make out was a slight murmur from two voices doing their best to keep quiet. His limbs began to tremble now that the reality was before him, that there would be a third person in the room with he and Nie Huaisang, a person he may or may not know, who would see him at his most vulnerable.

It was disconcerting.

It was nerve-wracking.

It was already making him hard, damn it.

“So, as I said, this is our specimen,” Nie Huaisang intoned, his voice coming closer. “Now, I have not told our volunteer who you are, and it's up to you whether you say or do anything that would reveal yourself. He may know you, he might not, but that's the fun of it, isn't it.”

There was a small giggle in response.

A feminine giggle.

Fuck.

“Now, let us begin with some basic anatomy, shall we?” Confident fingers slid along Jin Zixun's arm, alighting upon his shoulder and aiming for his chest. “Some things are naturally similar – arms, legs, shoulders, toes, and I've found that the sensitivity of each can be different from person to person. One may melt when you suck on their toes, another when you do this.” The fingers tugged on one of his nipples and twisted lightly, causing Jin Zixun to gasp around the gag and arch into the touch. Fuck. “It takes some experimentation, which is extremely fun, but the thing to remember most is that what's enjoyable for us might not necessarily be good for our partner. We have to listen to how they respond, watch what their bodies tell us, and not assume something will or won't work before trying it. Remember: there is no one way to make love to a partner.”

Beneath the linen, Jin Zixun rolled his eyes – this 'lesson' was going to be pure torture, worse than the worst beating he'd ever received. All he wanted was for Nie Huaisang to just get on with it. There was a gentle whisper coming from the side.

“Ah, I'm glad you've been doing your reading, my dear. I do have some more books for you before you leave. But sadly the scenes in spring books can get formulaic. But also the way sex is portrayed on the page is often done for artistry or simply to get the reader aroused. You'll find that in person, sex can be silly, embarrassing, even occasionally gross... but when we're in the middle of it, it feels wonderful. Not just the physical sensations, though that's a big part of it, but mentally, when we commune with another person.”

There was more whispering.

“Oh, by all means.” Nie Huaisang's voice sounded far too pleased with himself.

A set of tentative fingers brushed against Jin Zixun's toes, paused over the shackle binding his ankle, then slid up his calf. He winced, feeling a moment of insecurity at what she must think of his body in its most vulnerable state... but fuck that, he was more than handsome enough for the likes of whatever virgin required such a lesson. He decided to flex the muscles of his thighs and stomach to better show them off to his audience. He even began to feel a little sorry for her future husband, that the poor man on his wedding night would be compared to Jin Zixun and no doubt found lacking – but such was life. Jin Zixun worked hard on his cultivation and his physique, after all, and this woman was fortunate that his was the first male body she would get to see naked. Her fingers brushed along his thighs and stomach – obviously unable to keep herself from appreciating his physique – and then took their time rubbing along his knee in a way that felt oddly comforting. Then they were suddenly pulled back, followed by more whispering.

“Yes, that's indeed the part that will be the newest to you. You'll notice it's quite red and hard, a definite sign of arousal – though not the only one. Some men may even have difficulty in that area, and despite that can still be aroused. There are even some that may achieve orgasm without getting this hard, though those are rarer cases. So, you'll notice the head here is almost spongy to the touch.” A pair of fingers gently squeezed the head of Jin Zixun's cock. Finally. “And this right here is the slit. When he comes, this is where he will spill over.”

Another whisper.

“This is certainly one area where the spring books and I disagree. While the stories that do portray fellatio make it sound like an act of love and romance to ingest, it honestly isn't for everyone. Some enjoy the taste, others don't – I happen to fall into the latter, by the way. There's nothing shameful in it, and a good partner will understand your limits, whatever they are. What I tend to do, if I know in advance that I intend to perform the act, is have a towel nearby to spit into. Or if I'm feeling particularly sadistic, I kiss my partner and make them swallow it.”

There was a gasp, followed by more whispering.

“I'm glad you found those books informative as well. Let's consider those ones advanced study, and after your wedding night, should you and your husband wish to try, I would be happy to discuss it with you – or both of you, if he's game for it. Though if you're really curious, I would be happy to give you a demonstration later. My volunteer did come expecting a certain level of activity tonight, and I don't wish to disappoint him.”

A finger ran along the bottom of Jin Zixun's cock, from root to tip, playfully fingering the pronounced vein through his foreskin; his cock swayed at the touch.

“Yes, some men like it gentle like that. If you like, try taking a firmer approach.” The finger was joined by others and tentatively wrapped around his cock. “That's it. Have your husband show you how he likes to be handled. Some like it tight, like a stranglehold – however unhealthy it may be – and others prefer it soft and slow and smooth. In the end, it's all about pleasure, so it's best to be flexible.”

The hand around Jin Zixun stroked and a thumb slid along his head. His hips bucked unconsciously.

“Oh yes, he quite enjoyed that, didn't he. You're a natural talent, my dear.” And then more whispering. “You may. As I said the other night, this is entirely for your benefit. You go as far as you feel comfortable doing, and anything that happens in this room remains between us.”

Warm, moist breath ghosted along Jin Zixun's cock, and he felt his body tightening in anticipation. Then he felt a pair of soft lips touching him, spreading open to allow a tongue to flick out and lick along his slit. Were he not gagged, he would be smirking at the thought of it being him, and not her future husband, who had first claimed her mouth. Her lips parted even more and she began trying to take him in – he was rather impressive if he said so himself, yet another area where her poor future husband would no doubt prove inferior to his example – but when he felt teeth along his cock, he made a warning whine. While he enjoyed some pain, that wasn't the sort he liked at all.

“Here, let me show you something.” The woman's lips pulled off of him, to his great relief. “May I borrow your fingers for a few moments? Good. Now when you try again, try to keep your teeth covered, like this.”

There was a slight gasp, and Jin Zixun could hear the woman's breathing speed up just the slightest bit.

“Now that felt good on your fingers, right? Now here, try it on mine before attempting it again. Yes, good, very good! You are such a natural, my dear, but it doesn't surprise me. You always did care so much for others, and in all honesty, this is but another way of expressing that. Now, yes, do try again if you wish.”

Lips returned to Jin Zixun's cock, but this time the teeth were well hidden. He sunk back into the mattress and let out a small contented sound.

“If you would like to try, you can suck a little. Some men can get off from just the friction of your lips and tongue, but using some suction can kick it up a notch and feels quite nice.”

The mouth around him sucked experimentally and it was nice and comfortable – nothing that would get him closer to orgasm, thankfully, but it was enjoyable at least, now that the threat of teeth was out of the way. He relaxed into the suction, almost forgetting that it was a woman whose mouth was on him, and when a hand slid along his naked hip, he simply made a purr-like rumble. Just as he was getting used to the touch, both mouth and hand disappeared.

He somehow managed to resist letting out a frustrated groan around his gag.

“For the sake of comparison, let me show you what our volunteer enjoys,” Nie Huaisang said after a little more whispering.

Moments later, Jin Zixun's cock was wrapped in a firm grip, a little tight but that was exactly how he liked it. His hands balled into fists, careful not to break the brush in his hand as his lover's familiar grip stroked him a few times, very slowly to display him to their visitor, then stopped long enough to suck him in deep. The only thought in Jin Zixun's mind was of the glorious feeling of being enveloped, of his cock sliding as far back into Nie Huaisang's throat as his lover could go. The mouth slipped away with a light pop, but the hand remained on him, holding him tightly.

“That is something that takes a little practice, if you're willing,” Nie Huaisang said a little breathlessly. “Go a little at a time and give your throat a chance to become accustomed to being filled – the reflex against it is strong, but we, my dear, are stronger.” There was a giggle in response. “And you said you've already bought the phallus and strap? Good, good. Should you wish, you can practice upon that, but in the end, it's up to you how 'involved' you would like to be in any particular act. Never allow yourself to be pressured into doing something that is uncomfortable for you.”

There was more whispering that was answered by a dark chuckle from Nie Huaisang, a sound that had Jin Zixun nearly trembling in anticipation as it always meant the most wonderful sensations.

“This is for your education, my friend, so of course I would be happy to teach you a little about that. However, I will need a few minutes to prepare our volunteer.” Nie Huaisang's hand left Jin Zixun's cock and slid up his chest, pausing to pinch a nipple on its way. “Well, my pretty little volunteer, it's time to flip you over. I'll be detaching the shackles for a few moments, but I would suggest you not resist or else your disguise might slip by accident.”

He felt a flash of indignation, as if Nie Huaisang had said it as a threat rather than a reasonable warning, but after a moment it dimmed – he knew better, knew that Nie Huaisang wouldn't compromise him knowingly (and had already had plenty of opportunities to do so if he'd wanted to). He finally nodded, and moments later, the ropes tying the shackles down were loosened. He followed his lover's directions to the letter and shortly after, he was lying face-down, a pair of pillows beneath his hips and another under his forehead. His legs were retied and spread further apart, exposing him to the air and the sight of their visitor.

While Nie Huaisang secured his wrists, a hand touched his back, sliding fingers down his spine and toward his ass – at least she seemed to be enjoying the view. They lingered upon a spot he sadly knew far too well on his left ass cheek, where an overly large birthmark marred his skin. He'd always hated the damned thing, and was thankful she didn't know who he was and wouldn't associate the blemish with him – that risk was near non-existent as the only people who knew about it were his mother, his uncle, his cousin, and Nie Huaisang. Even his other lovers hadn't been allowed to see him so vulnerable with his ass in the air because most people, while good for a fuck, were absolutely not to be trusted.

“Go ahead,” Nie Huaisang murmured encouragingly as he made the final knot. “You know you're curious.”

The fingers began to explore, sliding along his ass cheeks, tickling down his perineum, cupping and fondling his hanging balls and giving them an experimental tug.

“If you're going to try what I think you want to try, I believe you'll need this.”

There was the sound of glass sliding along glass before the fingers returned to his ass, this time feeling slick and cool. The tip of one finger poked at his hole teasingly.

“Now remember our volunteer is very used to this sort of activity. He usually only needs minimal preparation, and since he likes a bit of pain with his pleasure, we only use a little oil. If you wish to try this with your husband, it will take time for the both of you to work towards this ease with a lot of oil and a lot of gentle digital penetration and stretching. The same would go should you wish to be on the receiving end of such attention.” The finger prodded further, eventually pushing past the ring of muscle and being sucked into Jin Zixun's body. “Yes, it does feel tight, but I promise he can fit more – on occasion, I've fit my entire fist inside him. Go on and add another finger.”

The visitor did as she was instructed, pulling her finger out and using two fingers to slowly push back in.

“Now I want you to curve your fingers like so, and-”

Jin Zixun moaned loudly into his gag as the fingers brushed along that space inside him, the one that always made everything better. He instinctively tried to push back into the touch but couldn't go very far because of the bonds.

“I just love those reactions. Even if I never get off myself, it's wonderful just to watch my partner be overcome. Now, would you like to try with this? It's a little bigger than the one you said you bought yourself, but it will be perfect for him.”

The fingers left him, soon followed by something hard and blunt and cool against his skin. It prodded at him and pushed until his body finally gave way, admitting whatever it was into his body with a pleasant burn (likely one of those marble phalluses Nie Huaisang favoured). He no longer cared about what it was or who was doing these things to him, he just wanted to keep feeling full.

“Now move it like this, that's it.”

The object began to move, thrusting in and out in uneven strokes. One moment it was shallow, and the next shoving as deeply as it would go. It was horrible and wonderful and aggravating, the initial gentleness almost gone but the pain nowhere near what he needed.

“Yes, that will take much practice as well. You're like me, we only have so much energy to dedicate to the things we enjoy, and this particular activity takes quite a toll on our wrists.”

There was more whispering as the phallus was pulled out of Jin Zixun's body, leaving him feeling empty and wanting.

“Hmmm,” Nie Huaisang sounded thoughtful. His hand returned to Jin Zixun's skin, stroking languidly, frustrating in how it wasn't enough. “Please understand, I can't reveal too much. What our volunteer and I share is unique and private to us, and it requires a lot of trust. Neither of us have any real desire for a conventional relationship.” There was more whispering that lilted up in a question. “I... suppose I am.” Nie Huaisang's stroking softened and his voice took on a fondness that made Jin Zixun uncomfortable in ways he had no desire to examine. “But then, how could I not be? I have a lover who is handsome and well-shaped, with whom I can show a side I rarely show others, and who trusts me more than almost everyone else he knows. That's enough for me... so yes, I'm happy.”

Jin Zixun almost dropped the writing brush. He didn't want to hear any of this! If he wanted softness and affection and lovey-dovey nonsense, he'd be back at Koi Tower letting his cousin talk his ear off about his bride-to-be

The woman's voice sounded affectionate as she whispered again, then she seemed to hesitate. She let out a shy giggle before whispering further in a huskier tone.

“Are you certain? I don't mind, of course, but you might not be able to look at me the same again afterwards.” Nie Huaisang's words were followed by a gentle giggle and a chastising whisper. “Then so be it. Have a seat right over here, it will give you an excellent view.”

A hand smacked hard against Jin Zixun's ass and he trembled in anticipation, thankful for the return to what was normal for them before any further talk of emotions could be had.

There was movement in the room and the sound of a buckle being undone, followed by fabric landing on the floor. There was a snap of leather on leather – yes – and Nie Huaisang's steadying hand moved along Jin Zixun's body.

“You've been a very good boy for me, and I know how much you hate being good.” Nie Huaisang's hand reached under Jin Zixun, pulling his cock backwards so that the pillow separated it from his hips, displaying it between his legs. “So you deserve a reward.”

Something long and leathery trailed along his skin, the tails of a flogger he had experienced many times over and one of his favourite toys. He focused on it's journey as it tickled along his shoulders, slid down his back, and then hung between his legs, the leather strips resting far too innocently against his cock and balls.

“Since you can't speak for me, I will still expect you to moan out your count. Understood?” Jin Zixun made a short sound of assent. “Very good. And now for your reward.”

The flogger was lifted up and began swinging in a slow, steady swish over his back and shoulders. It was more comfortable than a massage, and his skin grew warm and his muscles relaxed... but he knew he shouldn't let his guard down, shouldn't sink into the sensation just yet because-

Suddenly, the flogger's leather strips came down hard against his upper thighs, right beneath his ass, and one of them made contact with his sack. The pain was sudden, sharp, and exquisite - so much so that he almost forgot what he needed to do. He moaned, trying to say the number one through the gag. The flogger immediately went back to the comforting massage.

When it next struck, it landed directly between his legs. He moaned the number two as his hips squirmed, both wanting to get away from the next strike and wanting more. And then it came again, stinging directly against his cock, and he moaned out three.

After they reached twenty, when Jin Zixun's body was hot and pleasantly tingling all over, the flogger slowed down, working up and down his back in a comforting swishing until it eventually stopped. Jin Zixun inhaled deeply through his nose, smelling perfumed oil and sweat, and something... different. Alien. As Nie Huaisang pulled away, Jin Zixun heard a soft, shaky breath from nearby, followed by the sound of something wet and slick.

Suddenly something hard struck across his ass. The cool metal was far too familiar – it was the blade of Nie Huaisang's favourite fan, something he always enjoyed using to bring Jin Zixun his blessed pain. It came down harder, and harder, until his ass felt like it was on fire and he could only moan continuously

“I know how much you love it in here with me,” Nie Huaisang spoke with a low, firm voice, the most it had been all night – it immediately pulled Jin Zixun's mind away from everything but what Nie Huaisang was saying and doing to him. “You have purpose here, and you don't have to pretend for anyone. I know you far too well.” Nie Huaisang ran his fingernails along Jin Zixun's spine. “Nothing makes you feel more alive than this.”

It was a bare hand that smacked him this time and he made an unrestrained moan, feeling his mind sinking further down into his body to the place where it could rest, where it didn't need to make decisions or consider how best to unsettle his uncle's political opponents – here he could just feel and allow his body to be used as Nie Huaisang wished.

“When he starts getting like this, he'll do anything I ask,” Nie Huaisang explained, caressing Jin Zixun's stinging ass cheek. “It's a great honour, and a great responsibility. It's harder for them to let us know if we're going too far, if something isn't quite right. That's why this level of activity requires great trust, and much care.”

A pair of teeth sunk into his ass and he tried pushing back into the sensation. His hips were gripped by firm hands and held in place. The teeth bit again and again, softer and softer each time, trading off from one cheek to the other. And then that mouth reached his hole and a tongue flickered out to poke and prod at him; it was something Nie Huaisang rarely did, and it felt wet, strange, and wonderful.

“Are you going to-?” the woman's voice said, hushed and gravelly, only heard on the periphery of Jin Zixun's consciousness.

“We don't always... but is that something you wish to see?”

“Yes,” she replied shakily with a small gasp.

“Then I would be happy to give you a demonstration.”

Nie Huaisang's mouth was replaced by two fingers sliding into Jin Zixun's ass, spreading oil slickly and quickly. Within moments, the fingers were taken away and replaced by something hard with some give... the only cock he'd ever allowed to fuck him. Knees settled on the mattress, brushing against his bare calves, and hands slid up his back to grab onto his shoulders, grasping them tightly as Nie Huaisang's hips pulled back and snapped forward, fucking into him hard and sudden,.

“Let's give the lady a show she won't soon forget.”

Jin Zixun's back arched, his ass pushing towards Nie Huaisang to take whatever the other man would give him. He was lost in the wonderful haze, aware only of the way he was being touched and fucked and how good it felt. The fucking slowed and Nie Huaisang lay down over him, his breathing uneven and hot on the back of Jin Zixun's neck.

“You have no idea how hot you look, spread out like this, your ass in the air. If only you could see my student... she loved watching me hit you, probably because you take it so fucking well.” Nie Huaisang's words paused as he shifted his hips in a far too slow thrust. “She's touching herself as she's watching us, and thanks to us, I think her husband will be a very happy man.” And then Nie Huaisang's hips snapped faster. “Not that you care about that. You just wanted your punishment and to cum.”

Nie Huaisang paused again, his forehead pressing against Jin Zixun's shoulder blade. “I'm almost tempted to tell her who you are, to show her how much I enjoy my brat. But don't worry, I also like having you as my little secret.”

Jin Zixun shivered, the words getting to him more than they normally would when he wasn't lost in this fuzzy mental fog of sex and sensation. The other man began thrusting in earnest and Jin Zixun could feel his body soaring higher and higher. And then Nie Huaisang stopped suddenly, his body tense, and Jin Zixun could feel himself being filled. A hand crept under him, fingers reaching to pinch his nipple hard and fast.

“Come for me. Now.”

And Jin Zixun did, every part of his body focused in on his cock as he released onto the bedsheets. His consciousness crashed back into his head, abrupt and disorienting, but the rest of him felt relaxed and tingly with the relief of his orgasm. His body beginning to tremble a little in the aftermath, he was only just aware of Nie Huaisang patting his leg and saying he would be right back.

“Well, I must thank you for the demonstration, cousin.” Jin Zixun's brain was still far too muddled to make sense of much, but the voice was a woman's, and there was something in it that was familiar. A finger traced along his birthmark. “You know, I never thought that little conversation Zixuan and I had a few weeks ago would come in handy – I would have never known it was you if I hadn't been told about this.”

His mind fought to focus, something in him screaming at him that he needed to be more aware of the things around him.

“Don't worry, I'll keep your little secret if you keep mine – let's consider it a favour between future in-laws. Though it would definitely benefit us both if you would cease your antagonism towards A-Xian and A-Cheng.”

Oh fuck. Oh fuck no. His entire body tensed as recognition hit him like a stampeding yao, and his hand let go of the brush it had been holding.

“Now, rest assured, Huaisang has no idea that I recognized you, and it's for the best if that remains our little secret. I'm sure he'd feel terrible if he knew all his careful preparations to keep your identity safe were for nought.” Jiang Yanli patted his shoulder in a way that was almost comforting. “He seems quite fond of you, which comes as quite the surprise, though it does explain why he's been coming to Lanling so often of late. And now that I think about it, you've been a little more relaxed lately, at least on the occasions when he comes to visit.”

There was the sound of a door opening, and Jiang Yanli's hand pulled away.

“I hope you don't mind, my dear,” Nie Huaisang said, his voice growing louder as he approached the bed, “but I'm going to need to spend some time alone with my volunteer. It's something very important to do after the sorts of things we've done tonight... but I'll explain better another time, should you wish to learn more about the 'advanced techniques'.”

A warm, wet towel was spread out over his back in a way that had always been comforting in the past, but tonight did nothing to halt the trembling he felt to his core. Nie Huaisang's hand suddenly slid over his, the one that had been holding the brush until only moments ago – it gave a short squeeze before letting him go. He swallowed around the gag as he listened to more whispering.

“You're entirely welcome,” Nie Huaisang said, sounding slightly rushed. “This was quite enjoyable, and I'm glad it's been of benefit to you. I'll see you next week.”

A door opened and closed, then the mattress shifted. Nie Huaisang went about the work of releasing all of the shackles, rubbing at Jin Zixun's limbs as he passed them by, then helped remove the dark linen covering Jin Zixun's face. The moment the gag was unbuckled, Jin Zixun spat it out of his mouth.

“Jiang Yanli?” He sat up in bed and glared at his lover. “What the fuck were you thinking?”

Nie Huaisang blinked. “What gave her away?”

Jin Zixun reached up to undo his collar and threw it across the room – the flash of pain in Nie Huaisang's eyes satisfied him far too much. “She did, when you went to get the towel. She knows it was me because apparently my idiot cousin told her about my birthmark.”

“Ah,” Nie Huaisang replied intelligently. He heaved a heavy sigh. “This was... unintended, and unexpected. The one saving grace is that she risks as much as you do should the events of tonight be exposed.” He tried to smirk but it didn't quite reach his eyes. “In fact, the one at greatest risk is myself. Should Wei-xiong and Jiang-xiong find out I corrupted their sister, they will murder me into my next ten lives.”

“I might help them,” Jin Zixun huffed. He felt humiliated by the whole ordeal – and not in a good way – and he was still trying to process it all through the remaining haze from the space his mind had gone to. He grabbed the wet towel and began running it along his own arms as if he could wash himself of the whole experience.

Nie Huaisang sat, his face unreadable as he watched Jin Zixun's efforts. “What do you need from me?” he asked in a rare, compassionate voice that grated on every one of Jin Zixun's nerves.

“I need you to get the fuck away from me,” Jin Zixun lashed out. Nie Huaisang nodded and stood up from the bed, then walked over to a nearby dresser to pull his clothing from the drawer. As his lover began to get dressed, a war waged within Jin Zixun. He was angry and felt betrayed, but despite his words, he didn't actually want Nie Huaisang to leave.

If he left, he might never come back.

He did not want to admit just how much he didn't want that to happen.

Fuck.

Jin Zixun was a proud man – prouder than most, he knew it and didn't care what anyone thought – but pride was something he'd often had to set aside with this one person in the entire world, however difficult it was at times.

“Wait,” he called out as a fully dressed Nie Huaisang was about to reach the bedroom door. His lover held his favourite folding fan between his hands in a clenched grip that told Jin Zixun that Nie Huaisang was beginning to feel the same sort of drop that he did. “Since when do you leave before I've had a proper bath? Do you want me to drown in the tub?”

“I thought you wanted me away from you?” Nie Huaisang replied, his eyes unreadable.

Jin Zixun was not going to ask him to stay. Never. A Jin didn't beg or plead. A Jin didn't lower themselves because of stupid things like emotions. But if he didn't do or say anything... Nie Huaisang would leave. He didn't want that.

Though he would never admit it on pain of death.

It seemed the only way he could get what he wanted was... to not act like a Jin, and there was only one way that would happen. He stood up from the bed and threw the towel into a corner, then quickly glanced around the room. He stepped over to where his collar had landed carelessly upon the ground. It was a matter of seconds for him to pick it up and buckle it back around his neck, where it belonged.

When he wore the collar, he wasn't a Jin – he was Nie Huaisang's.

He dropped his hands to his sides and turned to face his lover. He hoped Nie Huaisang understood that there was no way in the Heavens that Jin Zixun could speak the words aloud to ask him to stay with him. Instead of speaking, he lowered himself down to his knees and focused his eyes on the floor.

Then he waited.

And waited.

The door did not open, yet still he waited.

It felt like forever until a shadow passed across the floor and a pair of legs appeared on the edge of his vision. Fingers moved possessively over the collar before fisting in the strands of his hair.

“You and I will share the bath this time, and you will bathe me properly – only then will we finish cleaning you down before bed.”

Nie Huaisang's touch became more tender, and when he spoke again, his voice was nearly shaking with emotion in a way Jin Zixun had never heard before – yet another thing he decidedly did not want to think about.

“I have no further desire to ever share you again, not even if you begged me.” Nie Huaisang let out a deep sigh. “Come, let us relax the rest of the night – we can worry about the rest tomorrow.”

Almost collapsing in relief, Jin Zixun leaned into Nie Huaisang and rested his head against his lover's hip. The hand in his hair moved to brush along his temple, and he was reminded of exactly why he came to Nie Huaisang every time they were in the same vicinity. It was easy to admit to himself that the pain and the orgasms were nice, but they could be found in many places. Right there and then, he was just himself... not a tool to be wielded or a reputation to maintain, not a nephew or a cousin or a shixiong.

He was just a man, with the last person anyone would ever suspect of being able to handle him at his worst, but the only person he could ever trust to do so.

One of the best things about special occasions was that they gave people an excuse to dress in their best clothes and jewelry. One of the worst was having to deal with other people.

Particularly when one was sworn (and threatened) to be on their best behaviour.

Jin Zixun stood proudly in his most luxurious golden robes, somehow managing to keep his tongue in check as Sect Leader Yao blathered on about some thing or other, he didn't really care. He was only thankful that the wine was flowing, otherwise this banquet would be impossible to survive without pulling his sword on someone.

Though imagining it helped. In great detail. Sect Leader Yao's droning voice would be so easily shut up with a well-placed sword in his throat.

“Ah, hello Yao-zongzhu,” a thankfully familiar voice interrupted. “Thank you again for coming.”

“It's my pleasure, Jin-gongzi.” The man turned more fully toward the newly arrived Jin Zixuan, who had his new bride at his side, both of them looking resplendent in red and gold. “And may I congratulate you both again on such a wonderful wedding.”

Jin Zixun's eyes met Jiang Yanli's; she gave him a kind and innocent smile that he knew to be made of lies.

“I don't suppose you'd mind if I borrowed my cousin for a little while – I believe Ouyang-zongzhu was looking for you.”

“Oh, of course, of course.” Sect Leader Yao gave them all a brief bow before moving on to his next victim.

Jin Zixuan, who all day had been smiling as radiantly as his bride, turned his attention to Jin Zixun. “I thought you might need some relief, cousin. Unless of course you were actually enjoying your conversation.”

“F-” He bit his tongue before the curse could exit his mouth. “Fortunately, you arrived just in time.”

His cousin nodded absently. “Actually, I'd hoped to have a moment with you to discuss a potential exchange between our sect and another.”

“Is that really the sort of thing you wish to worry about at your own wedding?”

Jin Zixuan winced. “Normally, no, but the prompting event was a bit of news I've just received. You see, Jiang-zongzhu and Wei-gongzi have requested permission to come for an extended visit in two months' time – I believe they will be staying at least two weeks. Of course they wish to ensure that we are treating A-Li well. And knowing how... contentious your relationship is with the both of them, I thought this to be an excellent opportunity for you to travel, perhaps learn a little from other sects.”

“We were thinking,” Jiang Yanli added, “that perhaps an exchange with Qinghe Nie would be appropriate. I believe I've overheard you express an appreciation for the Nie saber techniques.”

His eyes met hers; his fingers gripped his cup so tightly it began to dent.

She was evil – he reluctantly respected that about her.

“I know you're no great fan of diplomacy, cousin,” Jin Zixuan shrugged, “but you can consider it a vacation, if you like. Do some travelling, shop a little, even maybe see a show or two... and speaking of which, Nie-xiong! Over here!”

“Yes?” Nie Huaisang looked over from where he'd been in deep conversation with Jin Guangyao and Nie Mingjue. He said something to the other men before coming over to join their little group. “What can I do for you, Jin-xiong? And you, Yanli-jie? I hope you two are enjoying your special day.”

“I was wondering if you could do us a favour.” Jin Zixuan's face tried for something diplomatic, but his happiness was too great to settle for anything less than a smile. “We're thinking of sending my cousin here to Qinghe in two months' time for a vacation disguised as an educational exchange. Would you feel up to showing him around?”

“You know how much I love to show off my home, Jin-xiong, but...” Nie Huaisang gave Jin Zixun a wary glance. “Why Qinghe?”

“Well, A-Li thought he might enjoy it there-”

Nie Huaisang's eyes widened and he inhaled sharply, looking straight at Jiang Yanli. She tilted her head at him, looking for all intents and purposes the unknowing innocent – though Jin Zixun could see a flush on her cheeks.

For once, it was more than worth it for Jin Zixun to keep his mouth shut and watch the interplay

“I overheard him at dinner one evening,” she explained – and the only reason Jin Zixun heard her stumbling over her words was because he was paying extra attention to her reaction. “And he'd mentioned being impressed by the Nie soldiers during the war. And with Qinghe so close to Lanling, it seemed a reasonable exchange.”

Nie Huaisang's shoulders dropped and he smiled, though he gave Jin Zixun a quick once-over. “I'm not certain how much your cousin would actually enjoy Qinghe, but I'd be more than happy to make certain he's entertained during his stay. In fact, I believe that time would coincide with our yearly visit from the band of northern nomads we trade with – their horses are magnificent and very skilled, and they always give us a show of their riding prowess. Perhaps Jin-gongzi might enjoy that.”

All eyes turned to Jin Zixun; he scowled. “I suppose... it's better than the alternative,” he acquiesced if only to see the relief on his cousin's face – he considered that and his 'good behaviour' his wedding present. He wished he could say more but clenched his jaw shut as he'd been doing most of the reception.

He deserved a medal for his performance.

“Thank you,” Jin Zixuan replied.

“Though Jin-xiong.” Nie Huaisang sidled up to Jin Zixuan and bumped their shoulders together. “How long until you and your lovely bride leave us for the night? You can't possibly tell me you'd rather stand around and talk down here than go back to your rooms, hmmm?”

The smile finally left Jin Zixuan's face as it turned beet red; Jiang Yanli ducked her head and bit her bottom lip.

“We both know reading the occasional spring book is nothing compared to hands-on experience.” Nie Huaiang's 'whispered' words were more than clear enough to be heard by all three of them.

Jiang Yanli's face turned as red as her wedding robes. Jin Zixun lifted his wine glass to his lips to hide his smirk.

“Nie-xiong,” Jin Zixuan hissed.

“Oh, don't pretend most of the people in this room don't know what you'll be getting up to shortly. But don't let it get to you – everyone deserves a happy wedding night, don't you think?”

His cousin looked like he wanted to die, and though Jin Zixun loved him like a brother, all he wanted to do was laugh at the sight. Instead... “Ah, cousin, I think your WaiPo is looking for you.”

Jin Zixuan gave him a look of gratitude. “Ah, we must go, but I hope you'll have a lovely evening, Nie-xiong. Cousin.” Jiang Yanli gave Nie Huaisang a nod of thanks, and Jin Zixun a raised eyebrow, before following her husband into the crowd.

The moment they were out of sight, Jin Zixun snorted, unable to restrain his laughter any longer. “People call me a prick, but you're ten times worse.”

“Who, me?” Nie Huaisang's fan flicked open and he turned around to look into the crowd, though he remained standing next to Jin Zixun, their shoulders brushing idly together. “And let me guess... Jiang-xiong and Wei-xiong mentioned to me they'll be coming for a visit. I'm guessing the timing fits with your 'educational exchange'?”

Jin Zixun nodded and took another sip of his wine. “I could think of worse places to be if only to get away from those two. What you see in them, I'll never know.”

“It's called having friends, Jin-gongzi. You should try it sometime.”

He sniffed. “I have friends.”

“The best money can buy, I presume.” Jin Zixun glared at him and received a teasing grin in response. “But don't worry, I'll make certain your stay in Qinghe is memorable.”

He bit his tongue, not wanting to encourage Nie Huaisang.

“So... tell me,” Nie Huaisang leaned just the slightest bit closer. “How did they manage to get you to shut that lovely mouth of yours tonight?”

Jin Zixun groaned. “Zixuan will be taking over my training sessions with the younger disciples for the next six months-”

“Impressive.”

“-and my uncle said that if I disrupted any part of the wedding day, he'd send me alone to fight a yao so powerful it would make the Tortoise of Slaughter look like a kitten.” Nie Huaisang snorted; the corner of Jin Zixun's lips tilted up slightly.

“Well, it's worked... though I suspect all this pent-up aggression will need an outlet. Should I be expecting company tonight?” A hand brushed 'casually' against Jin Zixun's hip.

“Who'd want to keep you company?” He ignored how his body instinctively responded to Nie Huaisang's proximity.

“So mean,” Nie Huaisang whined. “Company isn't hard to find – there are at least a dozen men and women in this room that would come with me if I asked.”

“So why don't you?”

“Because... I want you.”

He sniffed, tamping down the pleasure he should not be feeling at such a pronouncement. “I'm not in the mood for games tonight.”

The hand glided around his hip and lightly grasped one of his ass cheeks through his formal robes. “Neither am I. No games, no roles, no special words... or would you rather I come to your room?”

He took a long time taking his next sip of wine. He didn't want to make this too easy for Nie Huaisang, after all. “My bed is one of the most comfortable in Koi Tower, the best money could buy.”

“That it may be... but my ass is priceless.”

A smile threatened its way onto Jin Zixun's face. “I suppose if I were to find a warm body in my bed tonight, I might not be opposed to taking advantage of the situation.”

“Then we'll see what can be arranged.”

The hand left him as Nie Huaisang disappeared into the crowd.

Somehow, when Jin Zixuan and Jiang Yanli finally left for their wedding night, Jin Zixun got pulled into the games despite his every protest – the only reason he acquiesced was because Jiang Cheng and Wei Wuxian were determined to be involved, and he felt his cousin deserved someone fully on his side to make certain they weren't too hard on him. When the games were finally pronounced over, he was relieved to be allowed to leave, doing so with far too much knowledge of what would happen once he and everyone else left – and his own part in just how much his cousin would enjoy his wedding night.

He eventually slipped out of his formal robes and into his bed, and was unsurprised when, in the darkness of his room, a pair of arms wrapped around him.

He smirked. “Now Jiang Yanli, aren't you supposed to be in my cousin's room?”

A groin pressed tightly against his hip, already hard cock rubbing against him as fingernails scraped lightly down his side. “Does this feel like something Jiang Yanli would have?”

“Hey, she could be misaligned for all I know – I was blindfolded at the time.” The hands on him grew bolder in their touches. “And after all, I'm just that irresistible. You couldn't fault her for wanting more – in fact, it would all be your own fault.”

“You think far too highly of yourself-”

“Yeah, but it worked that way with you, didn't it?”

“Asshole.”

“Clown.”

“Prick.”

“Jackass.”

Jin Zixun was shut up with a kiss, and for the rest of the night, there were no more thoughts of his cousin's wedding night – only of the body against his and stolen moments before his lover had to return to his rooms before morning.

Fin