《Shameless Ghost King Is My Husband!》


 Chapter 1 - I Wish You Were Real

    ["The moon is beautiful tonight," he heard the man from his dream say and felt a hand holding his own.


    "Yes, it is."


    He watched as the wind played with long black hair and the sleeves danced softly. He could barely make out who it was, but he looked forward to sleeping every time just to be here with him. There was something about this man that made him feel safe.


    "Will you tell me who you are now?"


    Every time he questioned this, he received no answer. The man reached out to tuck a strand behind his ear. A sigh escaped his lips as he closed his eyes feeling the fingers rub his ear.


    "I wish you were real¡­" he whispered quietly.


    "I am."


    He opened his eyes, laughing softly, and moved closer to the man he was infatuated with.


    "I suppose you are. I just¡­ I just want to stay here with you."


    The warped voice laughed and leaned close to him, rubbing their noses making him giggle.


    "Soon, my love," he felt hands smooth across his face, "It has been so long."


    He blinked trying to clear the distorted figure, "Soon?"


    The figure closed in and he shut his eyes as lips touched his forehead. The smell of wood and plum blossoms filled his nose. So familiar, yet so strange.


    "I have waited for many years," the voice sounded sad and he felt an ache in his heart, "Will you not return to me? I will not let you go."


    Fingers ran through his hair before cupping his cheeks. Breathe tickled his nose as the person moved closer, enveloping his sense of smell once more.


    "Then don''t let me wake up."


    "Come back to me again," the voice whispered, "My love."


    Lips moved in closer to his until-]


    The sound of the bell ringing signified the end of the school day, jolting him from his sleep. A boy with short platinum blonde hair blinked as he sat up straighter. Looking around, he saw eyes on him and he flushed with embarrassment.


    "Bai Lan, I would like to speak with you."


    His orange eyes blinked over to see a frown on his teacher''s face. Gulping down, he waited until his classmates emptied the class with whispers and shaking their heads. He stood flustered and headed to his teacher with his head down.


    "You have been sleeping in class a lot lately. Is there something you want to tell me?"


    "Um¡­"


    "Have you been staying up? Playing game late? Not sleeping enough?"


    His teacher interrogated and he tightened his hold on his strap.


    "I ask for your forgiveness, teacher. I sleep enough, but I just feel more tired lately."


    "Is it your heart again?"


    The concerned from his teacher made him smile.


    "Thank you for worrying, teacher. I am alright."


    "You know that is why I do not wake you up when you snore away sleep talking about your fantasized lover," she said it casually and Bai Lan flushed deeply.


    ''Sleep talking again? How embarrassing,'' he wanted to cover his face.


    "Be sure to rest enough, Bai Lan. You can''t keep sleeping your life away. It isn''t good for your heart."


    He blinked at her and she sighed.


    "Bai Lan, you have been having a hard time focusing, finishing your task, even socializing with others. I know you had to be out a lot due to your condition, but that should not stop you from making friends."


    He nodded and bowed.


    "Please forgive me, teacher. I understand."


    "Eh? Why do you always speak so formally," his teacher waved him away, "Just take care of yourself."


    He offered a smile and she waved him away. Walking out of the classroom, he could hear the whispers as he headed out of the school.


    "Don''t you think he came back to soon? Didn''t he had a scare last week?"


    "Yeah. Last time he was gone for a month."


    "It was scary! I thought he died."


    "Shh, stop being so loud. He is just right there."


    "I feel bad for him."


    "Me too."


    Ignoring the comments he received every time he returned to school, he clutched his heart and walked quickly out of the schoolyard. His heart was racing and he clenched his teeth. When he felt the cool air from outside against his face, he inhaled deeply. Eyes were on him, watching him with wary and worry.


    ''They think¡­ they think I would just fall over again,'' Bai Lan held his satchel''s strap tighter and left avoiding everyone.


    He kept his head down with his focus on the safety of his home, the comfort of his room. He just wanted to sleep, dream about the only man who cared about him. The only one who said he loved him, wanted to be with him, and wanted to hold him.


    He pulled out the key from his pocket and opened the door to his house.


    He saw his adopted mother grabbing her purse and turned to him.


    "You''re back early," she stated grabbing her keys for her car, "I need to run to the store, come with me."


    "Can I just stay home? I don''t feel well."


    Bai Lan looked down with his eyes watery. He hated how his life was. Why did he had to have a bad heart? He thinned his lips and looked at his adopted mother. She frowned deeply and shook her head.


    "Fine. If you have issues, be sure to call."


    "I know. I''ve known since you adopted me," he sighed and heard her huff before she left the house.


    Dropping his bag, he laid on his bed staring at the ceiling. Since he was a child, he could not remember who his real parents were. All he knew was that he was passed around from family to family. Some were great, others weren''t. Once they realized they could not handle his heart condition, he was always brought back.


    Now adopted into an older couple''s family, he was free to be independent. He was able to be alone and sleep all day if he wanted to. But this couple would always scream at one another. They did not give him hugs or asked about his days.


    They were cold when he was needing warmth.


    Letting out a sigh, he turned on his side and curled into himself. His mind drifted to the man that made him feel safe. Smiling, he relaxed his muscles and welcomed sleep.


    [He felt fingers stroking his face lightly as it trailed down the curve of his neck. Fingernails scrapped lightly down his nape and he shivered opening his eyes. A blurry image of his dream lover was lying beside him in a luxurious bed. His eyes trailed down to see his lover''s almost bare chest. The red robe slipped down strong shoulders, revealing firm muscled arms.


    "Are you enjoying yourself?"


    His eyes snapped back to the blurry face before him and he wanted to hide his face.


    "I¡­ I didn''t¡­ Uh¡­"


    He heard the chuckle from the man and felt fingers wrapped around his. His hand was lifted to place on smooth skin. He felt as if his heart was going to give up on him at any moment as his palm pressed against the heat of skin. The man glided his hand down long neck and paused where he could feel the beating organ of his infatuation.


    They''ve never¡­ gone this far before in his dreams. They would kiss lightly, hold one another, but this was¡­ this was-


    "I miss you."


    His eyes returned to the blurry face and he bit his bottom lip.


    "I miss you too."


    He licked his lips when the man moved in closer, squishing his hand in between their bodies. Breath fanned over his face and he fluttered his lashes as his eyes moved to where lips were on the blurred face.


    "It is time," Lips touched all over his face and his heart was beating faster, "Be with me, my love."


    "Yes," he breathed back and felt lips on his. His eyes closed and felt the deepening of the kiss, as tongue licked his lips for entrance. He parted his lips and sighed when his dream lover''s arm pulled him in closer. His heart was beating with excitement and anxiousness because he knew what was coming next.


    It should frighten him, but he was relaxed and happy.


    He wanted to stay here with his lover forever if he could. He felt the bed at his back and a palm on his chest. The man pulled away to stare at him and Bai Lan was panting with a smile.


    "Do not be afraid, my love."


    "Afraid?" He questioned before he felt the palm on his chest push harder.


    Gasping, he tried to pull away but his infatuation continue to put pressure against his chest. It was hurting and he wondered if this dream became a nightmare. He did not feel safe, he was scared, and he just wanted to wake up.


    "Please!" He wheezed out and the man lightened the pressure as tears slipped down his eyes.


    "I love you. Come back to me."


    Bai Lan stared at the blurry face and heard the confession from the warped voice.


    "You¡­ you scared me," he hiccupped wiping his eyes.


    He felt kisses on his face and then on his lips, soft and featherlight.


    "Forgive me, beloved."


    Bai Lan nodded and closed his eyes as his infatuation leaned down again to kiss him.]


    When he opened his eyes, his chest was hurting and tears slipped down his cheeks. Sitting up, he rubbed his chest with a grimace. He can hear his heart beating irregularly and the quicken breath told him it was happening again.


    He was having an episode.


    He went into his bag, digging with low oxygen brain, trying to find his phone. In his rush to grab the item, he fell off the bed. Gasping what little air he could, he finally caught his phone in his hands. Pulling it out, he tried to press the right number but he wheezed out faint breaths.


    He felt his heart constricting and he gripped it tightly. He could feel it giving out and he closed his eyes as he laid down on his side. Bai Lan should have known this was his fate. He should have been prepared, had his phone ready, but he didn''t.


    Now lying on the floor with his heartbeat slowing down and the phone a stretch away from his hand, he stared at the ceiling. He thought about his adopted parents finding him in his room dead. Would they cry? Would they be happy he was gone?


    His mind went to his infatuation, his dream lover. That was the last time he would see the man in red, the beautiful person who ever truly loved him.


    ''I am sorry. Please forgive me,'' he thought as his eyes felt heavy and his vision blurred. He would not meet him anymore. He would not be able to find out who his dream lover was.


    As his heart began to stop and his eyes refused to open, he swore he felt fingers running through his hair and the smell of plum blossoms around him.


    Then there was silence.


    The smell of roses filled his nose and he opened his eyes. He took in the lavished room he was in. The ceiling was not white like his room and the bedsheet over him felt like silk instead of cotton. His head moved to his left to see a girl and he jumped out of the bed in shock.


    ''Who is this!'' He looked down at himself to see him still dressed in¡­ something, ''What is going on? Is this¡­ is he being punished?!''


    He quickly went to the door looking for a knob but saw no handle. He heard the bed move and he panicked.


    ''How do you open this thing!'' He was pushing against it and realized it was a sliding door.


    "Honey, wha-"


    He heard the girl say, but he was not staying to hearing it all. He ran out, down the hallway, and out the big doors with handles.


    "Where¡­ where am I," he whispered out loud taking in everything.


    He was no longer home.

 Chapter 2 - What Did He Do To Deserve This

    This was not home. Instead of cars and tall buildings, he saw small homes and horses.


    People were dressed in robes and some had their hairs held up with ribbons. His eyes moved to the swords at their hips and to the rows of stalls with items. His eyes caught people eating outside on the benches and others traveling with their ox.


    Where in the world was he at?


    He heard the sound of footsteps nearing him, and that made him tense up. Running down the steps, he took off to any direction he could find. Down this road to the next, anywhere to get away from this strange world.


    Turning another corner, he finally paused to catch his breath.


    "Okay," he told himself, "You died. This is a nightmare or some mistake from the Gods. I just... I just need to die again and I will not be here. Easy."


    He stood up feeling better from his pep talk, but it quickly deflated when he heard more footsteps near him. Turning around, he saw three men walking toward him with leering looks. Pursing his lips, the way their eyes moved from his face down to his toes made his body shiver with anger. He unconsciously tightened the robe.


    "Where are you going pretty lady?" One of the men questioned adding a disgustingly thick sweetener to his tone.


    "I''m a guy," Bai Lan stated with a frown, "I am needed elsewhere. I am sorry."


    "A guy?" He saw the strangers look at one another before laughing.


    "No guy is this pretty," one of them barked out.


    ''Why do they think I''m a girl?'' He crossed his arms casually and noted there were no mounds of breasts.


    "I mean that is a man''s clothing, but that face is smooth and well kept," another wheezed out clamping his friend on the shoulder.


    He frowned and crossed his legs to feel¡­ yup. He was definitely a boy, no doubt about it.


    "I should be going, please just-" Bai Lan tried but they blocked his escape.


    "Oh, do not worry, pretty lady. We will take good care of you."


    "Just leave me alone!" Bai Lan shouted annoyed and scared as the circle closed in on him.


    The taller male grinned like a Cheshire cat, "Let us punish that pretty lips of yours for shouting at us!"


    They came closer to him and he held his fists up. The only fighting skills he had were from movies and television. He never thought he would ever need to defend himself since that never happened before. Now, he regretted it.


    All he saw were hands and he threw punches hoping it landed. He heard the crunch of his fist meeting skin, which made him happy, but-


    ''Ouch!'' He winced, ''That really hurts.''


    No time to care as those hands were more insistent on grabbing him. Though he would like to kick and bruise their precious members, whoever this person was seemed to not be wearing pants underneath. He only had an underwear, inner robe, and outer robe on.


    ''Who is this person,'' he frowned at this shameless person, ''Why did I get stuck in this person''s body? Why am I even here?''


    He felt hands grabbed his arms and shoulders, then the tearing that loosened the robe fell over his shoulder.


    "Ah! Get off me!" He screamed frightened, but the men around him just laughed.


    "Let''s hurry up," the bigger man puffed happily.


    "Disgusting, shameless! Get off of me!" He shouted only to get a backhand to the face, in which the ring on that finger caused a gash to his face.


    ''This is definitely Hell. What did I do to deserve this?'' He felt his eyes welled up.


    "It isn''t like you haven''t done this before," the shorter one said sweetly, "You''ve bedded many men and women, nothing is off limit. So the three of us is easy peasy, right?"


    ''This person is a¡­ is a¡­?!'' He found himself shocked, ''HELL! This is HELL! What did I do to deserve this? Was it because I said no to whoever asked? Was it for falling in love with a dream? Where are you? Please save me!''


    Fisting his hands and glaring at the men, he fought once more. There was no way he was going to  lay down and let them touch him. If he needed to get naked just to kick their asses, then he will! No one is going to take advantage of him, Bai Lan. He doesn''t care whoever this body belonged to was before, it was not him dammit!


    He only got the upper hand for a minute before he was pinned down to the ground, with his back to them. He felt someone tugging at his back collar to pull down, revealing his smooth milky skin. He tried to fight or wriggle away, kicking and flailing like a fish out of water, but the big one sat on his back while the other two held his hands down with their foot.


    ''I am so weak,'' he shut his eyes and did the only thing he still could think of.


    "HELP!!!" He screamed hoping someone, anyone, come stop these bastards.


    To his surprised, he heard people shouting for them to stop and get off him. Bai Lan was so happy and relieved that once he was released, he quickly covered himself the best he could and bowed.


    "Thank you, thank you," he was so grateful.


    ''Finally, something good happens,'' he sighed, but suddenly felt a grip on his hair lifting his head.


    "Sheng Shui," the man in gold with intricate design stared coldly at him, "We have been looking for you."


    ''Oh please don''t tell me-'' he could not believe his bad luck.


    "Sect Leader Feng will give his punishment now," the man said pulling him up by his hair.


    He could hear the men from earlier laughing as they watched him be pulled by the hair like an animal. He was really dead. Please just kill him. He was tired of the humiliation from waking up next to a woman, getting touched and almost¡­ and now being dragged by his hair. Even worse, the leader had a beef with him or something! If there were a God or Goddess, they truly hated him. This was the worse life he ever had. He would rather choose to live with his bad heart than this.


    He felt the scalp of his head itching as they walked through places and up numerous steps. Then he saw rows and rows of people just staring at him with disgust and pity. Feeling the blood drop from his face, he swallowed the nerves bundled up in his throat.


    ''An execution. This was what it was, wasn''t it?'' He frowned, ''Hanged, stabbed, burned to death? What was it? I just got here and so many things had happened. I am so tired.''


    He was tugged forward and dropped to the floor at the top of the steps. Letting out a groan as his knees hit the concrete, he lifted himself up to see the man on the seat before him. Dressed even more intricate than the bastard who dragged him, the elder sat straight with hair ornaments adorned in his tresses. His face had wrinkles and his hair was graying, but there was an elegance to him.


    "Sect Leader Feng," the hair dragging bastard greeted the elder, "I have found Sheng Shui."


    "So you are finally caught," the leader looked at him and Bai Lan felt a tremble of fear go through his body, "You are elusive," he paused to stare at him, "You definitely are a beautiful woman."


    "I''m a man, sir," he spoke up to feel a kick to his back and he fell forward gritting his teeth.


    "My daughter said you used her and played with her heart," the elder continued and the daughter he spoke of walked up the steps to stand beside her father.


    ''Who? Oh,'' he took in her big brown eyes and petite nose.


    "This is the one, correct?" The leader looked at his daughter who nodded.


    "Yes father," she kneeled down, "She told me we would be friends forever if I were to help her, but then she left with all my expensive items."


    "What?!" He could not believe what he was hearing, "I didn-"


    A foot pressed against his back pushed him back down further.


    "Shut up you lowlife," the bastard shouted and Bai Lan growled. This was not fair! This was unjust!


    "I am a man not a girl!" He shouted and felt the pressure at his shoulder blade press harder, "Ugh!"


    "Then strip," the elder stated casually, "If you are a man, then strip down and we will know."


    Bai Lan laid there for a moment thinking to himself. Strip¡­ in front of everyone¡­ it wasn''t something he was comfortable with in his other life and definitely not in this life. However, the thought of finally being called correctly and not be accused of this stupid crime or whatever was tempting.


    "If you are a man, then the punishment would be more extreme," the Sect Leader finished and he felt his face drop.


    ''He cannot win.''


    He felt the foot leave his back and he felt relieved slightly, but there was a pull at the back of his collar before that bastard''s hands had pushed opened his robes enough to reveal his shoulders, but not enough to show cleavage.


    "I''m a girl, I''m a girl!" He shouted grabbing the front of his robe tightly, so nothing was revealed.


    The hands left him, and he looked at the elder with fright.


    ''This place is so shameless! To strip someone bare without their consent! Am I in some sort of messed up novel!'' He found himself screaming inward as he pulled his robe back over his shoulders.


    "Your punishment Sheng Shui," the leader announced, "... is to be the Ghost King''s wife."


    Before he could process that, he heard the gasps and loud murmurs from the crowd. Even the daughter who accused him seemed to be shocked by the announcement.


    "Fa¡­ father," she grabbed her father''s hand, "Please¡­ there must be a different punishment. Not that¡­ please."


    "My decision is final," the elder stated.


    "I¡­ it was a lie, father please, he is a man not a woman," the girl continued to speak the truth, but her father paid no mind.


    "Take off her outer robe and dress her up," the leader stated, "We will bring The Ghost King his bride within the hour."


    What had he gotten himself into?

 Chapter 3 - You Are My Wife

    ''This¡­ this had to be the worse moment of my life,'' he hung his head, as they carried the prison he was in toward wherever this Ghost King was. He was so tired, he just wanted to lay down and sleep to dream of his lover. He was sure as soon as he tried, someone would come with a bucket of water to pour on his pathetic life. Red veil over his face, he could barely see a thing and sighed. The entire time on their travel, those in gold were telling stories out loud so he could hear them.


    "I heard the Ghost King was offered a woman from the East sector," someone would say, "... and the Ghost King ate her up!"


    "I heard a woman from the North sector seduced the King, but when he found out she was a liar, he tortured her to death and even has her ghost be tortured still. It is said at night you can hear her screaming!"


    "I heard the animal that is with him is his pet! He used it to kill and one time, it killed over 40 people with just a swipe."


    "I heard he had many women with him to please him because he is insatiable."


    "Someone told me every 20 years, the sectors alternate to send the most beautiful woman as an offering to the Ghost King in hope that he does not come to kill their people."


    "I heard he made the entire village into his own palace where ghosts roam free at night. If any living thing comes then it is free reign for the ghosts. He would not even stop them."


    He felt the movement stop and he felt his heartrate picked up. The carriage was settled down and he cried inwardly.


    "Ghost King, your benevolence," the hair dragging bastard spoke up like an announcement, "We have come with a special gift, a wife, from our Sect Leader Feng."


    Bai Lan felt his entire body tensed up.


    ''Why would you say it like that!'' He was so scared. He was too young for this and he was going to die. He-


    "Oh my¡­" he heard them say as gasps escaped their lips, "Let''s go! Go!"


    Footsteps running away, even that hair dragging bastard, was scared of the Ghost King which only made him even more dreadful of what was to come. An insatiable, hungry, cold killer was to be¡­ his husband! He was pretending to be a woman for goodness sake! He had to tell him straight up that this was a mistake. He was just forced into this and he would kick all those people''s asses when he got stronger.


    The red flap was pushed aside, and he looked over to see a hand embellished with three loose bracelets held before him. His eyes followed down the length of that arm covered in black to the slight revealing chest. Staring at it, he noticed a black tattoo peeking from the opening of the Ghost King''s robe. Necklaces adorned with gold and light colorful jewels hung from his long thick neck.


    Bai Lan felt his face getting warmed and he almost slapped himself if it weren''t for the hand pulling away from him. Making a decision, he quickly grabbed the retreating hand as it helped him out of the cage. Looking, he hoped whoever this Ghost King was, Bai Lan was going to tell him who he was and that this was a misunderstanding. Simple, right?


    ''I am not a girl, I am a guy,'' he practiced, ''I was forced to come here dressed like this. Please do not get angry with me. If you let me leave, I will beat them all for lying to you.''


    The veil lifted over his head and his eyes widened so wide, he felt it would literally pop right off or burn.


    ''This was no real human! There was no way!''


    He must be a God! That was the only reason, the only justification for how beautiful this man was. Bai Lan felt those long, smooth fingers lift his chin. The Ghost King was a head taller with eyes of silver and hair as dark as the midnight sky. Parts of his hair were braided loosely holding emeralds and rubies. There was a mark wrapped around his left eye, like the river splitting to connect once more. His lips were thin, yet he wanted to-


    Face flushed deeply from the tip of his ears down to his neck, Bai Lan pulled back to hide himself behind the veil again.


    ''Holy shit!'' He took a deep breath, ''How can anyone be this gorgeous! Heart! Stop beating so fast! He can kill me.''


    He could feel his heart pounding, wanting to reach the man before him, the man that he was forced to marry. He had never felt this before, this strong connection that pulled him toward the man with silver eyes.


    ''No! I... I can''t feel this way for the Ghost King. Only the man in my dreams. Only him.''


    A cold hand grabbed his sweaty warm one and pulled him forward, jostling whatever he was just thinking. He was too scared to pull away, both from what the Ghost King could do to him and how his heart seemed to sing when they touched.


    As they walked, he regretted covering himself with the veil. He couldn''t see much, but he could hear what sounded like music being played, but it suddenly stopped. He wondered why, until he heard voices.


    "They offered you a wife this time, my king?" He heard a female say.


    "Oh, she must have done something truly despicable to be brought here like this. They always seem to send people here to be punish," The second voice sighed.


    "I shall have her clothing ready," The first voice offered.


    He could hear a few murmurs amongst the females before the music started again, but the tone was lighter and uplifting. He soon heard water as they seemed to stop. Confused as to why, he suddenly felt something soft ran against his unoccupied hand.


    ''Huh? What is this? It''s so soft¡­'' he thought as he moved his hands to feel it more.


    "Purr," A sound emitted from the petting and Bai Lan screamed clinging onto the Ghost King.


    ''It''s the pet! The one that killed 40 people with just a paw! Oh no, no, I don''t want to die!'' He inwardly cried clingy harder.


    Staying attached to the one before him, he left no room between them as they moved. Bai Lan figured if the animal were to kill him, his master will go down too!


    ''Hah! I am so smart!'' He felt himself grinning, as if he came up with the best plan.


    He heard a door slide open and the air around him was warmer with the smell of plum blossoms. Loosening his hold, he relaxed a bit knowing that scary animal would not be in the room. He soon felt the bed against his back, and he bounced with it. Wanting to get up, he felt breath near his face and his eyes widened.


    His veil was removed over his head and he was back to staring into silver eyes and pretty lips. That hand left featherlight touches down the side of his face and he swallowed the saliva building in his mouth. He felt his heart beating so loudly in the room, like the beating of the climax of a drum. The Ghost King leaned in closer, breathe against his lips and Bai Lan felt his eyes flutter shut.


    The God-like man''s chest was close to his but not touching, as his necklaces hung tickling his exposed neck. Nose glided softly over his cheek to his ear, before moving to smell the curve of his neck. A low hum was heard and Bai Lan found his body ignited in flames.


    "Please," he whimpered quietly.


    His entire body was shivering as if he had just been dunked into freezing water. He was graced with the inhumane face once more as those silver eyes searched his face. The longer the man looked, the more he wanted to hide himself again and never crawl out of it.


    "You are my wife," the Ghost King said, and it made the shivering even worse.

 Chapter 4 - Why Do My Heart Beat Like This With Him

    ''What¡­ what is wrong with me?!'' He was having a hard time breathing like he couldn''t breathe, ''Hyperventilating just from his voice?! That is ridiculous! I¡­''


    The gorgeous man leaned closer and tilted his head to one side.


    "Ah!" Bai Lan shouted punching him in the face, causing the Ghost King to fall off the bed.


    Moving back and to the corner like a scared animal, he pulled his legs with his knees to his chest. Covering the bottom of his face with his hands, he could not believe what he had just done. He¡­ he had just hit the Ghost King! He was definitely going to die! He watched as the man stood up staring at him curiously, before his lips curled.


    ''Is he smiling?'' Bai Lan wondered, but that smile was so brilliant that he was gravitating to the beauty of it.


    But the Ghost King turned and left him there alone on the bed.


    Alone.


    The room was no longer warm; it felt as cold as winter on a blizzarding day. Wrapping his arms around himself, he was feeling too much. Dying and coming here in this strange body, he was broken. That was the only reason to why he couldn''t keep his emotions in check. He never was attracted to anyone but the man in red, the man in his dreams!


    ''Then why does my heart beat like this with him?'' His eyes went to the closed door where the Ghost King had left, ''What is happening to me?''


    After just a glance of the Ghost King, he was getting flustered, his heart was getting excited, and his mind was imagining things. Not to mention the hard-on he was having. Flushing deeply, he shut his eyes and tried to go back to the comfort of the man in his dreams. The man that calmed his heart and ease his mind. When he closed his eyes, all he saw was dark raven hair and sharp silver eyes.


    He made a wounded noise.


    ''Not this too! Can I not have something that is mine?''


    He was so tired and exhausted. During the entire way from holding the strong hand, pressing against the solid back, the intimacy of just moments ago, he failed in doing what he told himself.


    The entire time, Bai Lan never once told the Ghost King the truth.


    ''Stupid Bai Lan! Stupid,'' he groaned and closed his eyes, hoping his dream lover came to visit.


    When he woke, he realized the sun was starting to set. Stomach growling to signify his hunger, he sighed and got off the bed. Looking around the room, it didn''t look like the Ghost King had returned. He felt slightly guilty for hitting him and felt he should apologize, then he tell the man the truth. Taking a deep breath, he stood and headed to slide the door open. Walking around unsure where to go, he stood in the middle of what looked like a courtyard and glanced around him.


    "My lady," a female voice called out and he turned to her.


    She had short brown hair with light purple eyes. She looked to be about his age and reminded him of a beautiful white rose. He cleared his throat and pitched his voice a bit higher than his normal one.


    "Hello," he bowed to greet her.


    "Are you looking for my king?" She asked holding a wooden tray with soap bars.


    "Um, yes," he said, "Are you going to bathe?"


    "Oh this?" She let out a laugh, "We all bathe when he does."


    His mind screeched to a halt.


    ''They¡­ all¡­ bathe¡­ together¡­'' he blinked a few times just staring blankly, ''Those bastards were right. They were right!''


    "My lady," the female called out with a smile, "This way."


    He followed, swallowing the bile wanting to escape his throat. If he walked into some orgy, he was going to die of embarrassment. He would rather attempt to run away then... then watch a bunch of women pleasing the Ghost King.


    As they neared, he heard a female voice chattering and laughing. His right eye twitched and he gritted his teeth, readying himself to just run away no matter if it risked his life. The Ghost King can kill him. He was not going to stay if-


    His eyes took in the naked form of the female in the pool and he felt his lips dried up.


    ''How shameless!'' He felt his face warm looking away from the female.


    But as his eyes moved away, he saw the back of the Ghost King. Smooth expanse of skin, strong wide shoulders that looked as if it could carry him easily. The ripples of hidden muscles beneath the layer of creamy white skin, seemed to emit a blue tint from the reflection of the water. His hair was over his shoulder, but wet strands stuck to his skin dripping trails of droplets down his back.


    Bai Lan felt his face heat up as his eyes continued to take in the beautiful man in the water.


    ''This¡­ this is not a bath!'' He covered his face to hide how flustered he was feeling.


    "My lady," the female in the water spoke up and he removed his hands from his face, "Will you be joining us?"


    His eyes glanced over at the King to see him turn his body, revealing his left profile to him. Those silver eyes sparkled like the stars, waiting for him to speak. He felt his tongue stuck to his throat as words were unable to escape. Cheeks burning, he stood frozen a few feet away from the hot spring. Bai Lan wasn''t sure if it was the steam or if it was his imagination, but the Ghost King had a small smile on his lips.


    "My king," the female with blue hair and purple eyes spoke up taking the wooden tray from the brunette. He watched her walk a few steps to reach the man in the water and said, "I will wash your back for you."


    "No!" He shouted before he realized and stuttered out red faced, "N¡­ no. I will do it."


    ''Why the heck did I say that? I could have ran away!'' He cried inwardly.


    "Oh, okay why d-" before the blue haired girl finished, he was already in the water.


    He had miscalculated and thought he was where the steps were, only to fall into the hot spring. Drenched from head to toes, his wedding robe clung onto him as his head came up. His light blonde hair fell onto his face and he spluttered out water, trying to wipe his hair aside. He felt fingers on his hand, and he froze in his movement.


    These fingers¡­ he was already familiar with the touches of them and it scared him. He never, in his life before, even liked being touched. It was disgusting and dirty, but when the Ghost King touched him, it was like his skin knew these fingers.


    He found himself staring up at those platinum eyes once more, as those fingers tucked his hair behind his ears. Then they trailed down the bridge of his nose to the bow of his lips. His mouth parted on its own as the man''s thumb trailed over his bottom lip.


    Oh god, he wanted to kiss him and hold him and feel his skin and-

 Chapter 5 - He Was Broken

    Bai Lan''s body shivered from his trail of thoughts and stepped back until he felt the edge of the bath. Hyperventilating, he turned away covering his face. He had become one of those shy schoolgirls! He couldn''t even look at him without thinking of¡­ thinking of shameless thoughts! He was shameful; he was pitiful.


    "Oh, so shy," the blue haired female cooed.


    "What a shy wife," the one with the brown hair said.


    "Different from the other one," the girl in the pool mentioned.


    ''Another one?'' He found himself wondering, ''Did the other sectors offer the Ghost King wives like me? Where are they?''


    ''Dead,'' He could still hear those bastards in golden robes laugh and he found his face whiting out.


    "My lady," he recognized it was the naked woman in the pool of water, "Would you like me to continue?"


    "No, I shall do it," he cleared his throat and stood tall.


    ''After the bath and away from them, I am going to tell him to let me go. Easy!'' He nodded to himself and grabbed the wooden tray. Moving past the other man, he placed the tray to the side and picked up the bar. Avoiding those hypnotizing eyes, he gulped back the built up of saliva seeing the well-toned chest before him. His eyes took in the mark on his right chest, breaking to curl underneath his rib. His eyes drank him in as it went lower to see the dip of his hips in the water and-


    Forcing his eyes up quickly, he found his heart beating as if it was trying to run out of his chest. Making himself look away, he ended up staring at that handsome face. The Ghost King was beautiful, that was as obvious as saying the sky was blue and sun was yellow. However, there was a small bruise on the right cheek from their altercation earlier¡­ okay, from his violence. His left hand reached up to touch, maybe soothe him, but he stopped midway.


    ''Soothe him?'' He found himself thinking as his heart teetered.


    Before he can think any more on it, he felt the Ghost King''s hand grip his wrist to finish the motion. Hand against smooth cheek, he found his eyes widened slightly in awe.


    ''Yup. Not human. Too smooth, too beautiful, too much for any person,'' he concluded.


    Then the ethereal man decided to turn his face to his palm and kiss it, like a lover would. His whole body shivered with want and it scared him. Why did his body react so easily to the man that could kill him? He had never been scared like this before, but right now before this tempting man, he would crawl out of his skin and run if he could.


    The soap slipped out of his hand and plopped into the water.


    "Ah!" He called out pulling away and reaching his arm into the water to look for the soap bar.


    ''I must look like an idiot!'' He was starting to panic, ''The man can kill you anytime and you told him you would clean him but ended up wasting his time! Should''ve just let that naked woman do it! Stupid!''


    "Wife," his voice, baritone and smooth like his entire body, "Here."


    He looked to the offered item and saw it was another soap bar. Slightly relieved, he thanked him quietly and went to cleaning the body. He focused on his infatuation and of how the man in his dreams would whisper softly in his ear. How his touch was featherlike, as if they were the petals of a rose trailing down his skin. He focused on the warped voice and blurred face that would hold a smile.


    He paused realizing he had finished cleaning the top half of the man''s body. Soap still in his hand, he looked wide eyed into silver ones. Was he going to¡­ wash the rest of his body, particularly his bottom half¡­ did he¡­? To his relief and slight disappointment, the Ghost King took the soap and finished washing the rest of his toned body. Bai Lan turned away and wasn''t sure what to do, as he just stood there.


    "You are finished, my king?" The brunette questioned.


    He turned back to watch the water drip down the king''s waist, hips, and-


    He quickly turned back to avoid the rest of the body he knew would be perfect. Sinking into the heat of the water, he stared at the corner for a while blankly.


    "My lady," the brown haired girl from earlier spoke up, "Would you like us to help you?"


    "With what?" He questioned before clearing his throat to pitch his tone higher, "With what?"


    "Your bath," she explained pointing at him.


    "Oh.. no, no I can do it myself," he sent a smile.


    "With your robes on?" The female with a deeper tone looked at him with a frown. She had curly blue hair and purple eyes. The one that was in the water earlier.


    "I can remove them myself," he stood up, "You ladies may go¡­ do whatever it is you do."


    The girls looked at each other before they did as he asked. Once he was alone, he relaxed into the water with his head placed at the edge. Staring at the clouds, he felt like whoever brought him here was laughing at him. This was some sick joke, maybe a simulation or something. He was not himself at all. What happened to the boy would just wanted to sleep. The boy who hated touching and being close to someone. The boy that never got attracted to anyone or anything but the man in his dreams.


    Yet the Ghost King made his heart felt like he couldn''t breathe and had too much air at the same time.


    He was broken.


    That was the only reason why his heart was doing stupid flips when he looked at the Ghost King. That was the only explanation to him wanting to touch the God-like man''s skin by pressing his to him. That was the only, ONLY conclusion to the shameless thoughts and feelings he was having.


    Nothing else.


    "When you get out of this muscle relaxing pool," he told himself sternly, "You tell him the truth, or he will kill you."


    Agreeing with himself, he undid the robe and pull it off his body. Bai Lan tossed it to over the side and washed himself quickly, so no one saw his naked body. Looking left and right, he walked up the steps as fast as he could and reached for the white robe. Letting out a relieved sigh, he wrapped it around him and tied it.


    "Purr," the sound of a beast sounded from behind him and he felt his whole body rigid.

 Chapter 6 - The Place Where Lips Touched Tingled

    ''Oh no¡­ please no,'' he turned to the animal who was getting closer to him, as if stalking his prey.


    "Ahhhhh!" He screamed out running like his life depended on it. He had no idea where he was going, but he had to keep running. Head turned to look behind him, he saw the animal nearing him like it was a game!


    "Help! Help!" He cried out, but soon bumped into a hard surface.


    His head bounced against it, but he felt a hand pressed the back of his head. Face pressed against warm partially covered chest; he found his breath calming down.


    "Snow," the Ghost King spoke up and he felt the vibration, heard the calmness.


    "Rar¡­" the beast sounded sad and walked away with his head hung low.


    He heard the steps fade away and he waited for the hand to let go of his head, but it stayed like a solid pole.


    "Um¡­" he started unsure, "¡­ thanks."


    The hand slowly removed from his head and he leaned back, to see those silver eyes looking at his face down his body.


    ''Is he¡­ checking me out?!'' He felt the tip of his ears heat up.


    "Have the ladies dress you up for dinner," Ghost King said and looked off to the side, "He only wishes to play with you. He will not harm you."


    "Are you sure?" Bai Lan quickly said, "The stories¡­ they say otherwise."


    "Stories," The handsome man said amused, "Tell them at dinner. I wish to hear them."


    "Oh, I got lots!" He nodded with a sense of conviction to feel fingers touching his chin.


    "Then I shall wait for them all," breath ghosted his face before lips pressed softly against his forehead.


    ''So familiar¡­ and this smell¡­ the smell of plum trees and wood¡­''


    His own eyes closed on its own and when he opened them, the touch was gone. He was standing there on his own, but the place where lips touched tingled and sizzled all the way to dinner.


    The females lived in the same room. It was large and spacious, big enough for four rooms combined. Scrolls, drawings, intricate fabrics and cloths laid in their spaces. Beds adorned in gold embellishments were pushed together to form a large bed.


    "Let''s have our lady wear this," the one with blue hair held up a green robe with patterns of gold lotuses.


    "Oh, yes! It brings out her eyes," the brown haired one nodded.


    "Then let''s use this hair pin," the blue haired female held up a golden pin with five hanging small jewels.


    "Yes, let''s start."


    Bai Lan had not seen himself since he had somehow taken over this body. All he kept hearing was that he was too pretty to be a boy and looking at himself now with makeup, platinum blonde hair twisted perfectly in place, he couldn''t help but agree.


    He looked a lot like a woman with his doe like emerald eyes and petite nose. Even his lips were full and plumped. Swallowing the lump in his throat, he looked away guiltily. Whoever this body was before¡­ must have had a hard time convincing people his entire life.


    He tried for a few hours and got kicked, slapped, and his hair pulled.


    "Our king would be so happy," the blue haired female nodded proud.


    "He is already waiting," the brunette laughed, "Let us join him."


    Bai Lan followed them out of the room and passed the courtyard to the other side. He wondered why there were so many rooms and why were they empty? Why was this place so large? Who were these ladies and¡­ were they really here to satisfy the Ghost King''s appetite?


    ''Shameless!'' He screamed at himself gritting his teeth.


    There was a small part of him screaming loudly, possessive with the king. Ignoring it, Bai Lan swallowed as he held himself together. He told himself that he had to tell the Ghost King the truth. It was only a matter of time when the man would find out he was a man and not a woman. Yet, those thoughts faded away when his green eyes took in the beauty that was his king.


    ''Mine.''


    He blanked his face trying to ignore that small voice, but he felt like the entire world just stopped. The light breeze flowed, pulling the dark strands of the man''s hair to dance with it. He had earrings this time that hung down his shoulder where the ends had feathers dangling. His robe revealed his mid chest and that made Bai Lan''s teeth ache.


    "My king," the females greeted together as they went to sit in their designated spots.


    The Ghost King''s eyes turned to his and the cup in his hand stopped from lifting. He felt anxious standing alone to those scrutinizing eyes. Forcing his shaky legs closer to the man, he bowed with his head lowered.


    "My king," he greeted and he heard one of the girls gasped.


    ''Did¡­ did I say something wrong? Did I messed up again?!'' He frowned.


    "Sit beside me," the hand gently pulled him down and he felt his cheeks flushed.


    "Where is Ah Yun?" The one with brown hair questioned.


    ''Another woman¡­'' he thought with a frown, ''¡­ a handsome man with a group of pretty girls¡­ definitely a harem.''


    "I am here," the voice of another female spoke up and he aimed his green eyes at the newcomer.


    Hair white like the clouds and eyes a deep purple stared at him. There were three dots aligned with one another on her forehead and he wondered what that meant. Her robe was plain compared to everyone else. The gray robe did not dull her beauty as she sat with her half her hair pulled up into a bun.


    "You must be the new wife," she stated beginning to pour tea for everyone, and refilled the Ghost King''s cup.


    "It is nice to meet you," he greeted remembering to pitch his voice.


    The white-haired female blinked at him and glanced at the king to receive nothing.


    "My name is Yun," the white-haired woman nodded, "You must have a lot of questions."


    "Yes!" He answered quickly before listing those questions, "What do you do? What do they do? Why is he called the Ghost King? Why is there no one else around? Why did those people in gold bring me here? Why were they so scared of him? Why do you have that beast? Do ghost really live here? Were you all offered so he doesn''t kill people? Are you all his servants? Who are your parents? What am I doing here and why am I not dead yet? What do you want from me? How-"


    Fingers covered his lips and he stared at the owner of them, who wore an amused smile on his lips. Blinking as he calmed down, he didn''t realize he just spewed out a bunch of questions. Pulling back and clearing his throat, he felt his cheeks flushed.


    "My apologies," he covered his lips with his sleeve because¡­ that''s what women do here, right?


    "Wow," the blue haired girl let out, "Some of those questions¡­ don''t you already know?"


    "No, I am afraid all I know are rumors and stories," he offered an apologetic smile.


    The females glanced at one another before they looked at their king, who nodded for them to divulge the poor sap the answers.


    "My name is Chu," the one with blue hair said, "these are my sisters: Hein," the brunette, "and Yun."


    "We''ve lived with our king for many years now and help him with everything from cleaning, cooking, and bathing," Hien explained, "Many of what you see here and experience are from our king''s own power."


    "Yeah, normally it is very cold and snows every day," Hein added, "With this constant spring weather, not only do we enjoy it, but the sectors also benefit from it."


    "How? And¡­ what are the other sectors?" He questioned to receive confused stares.


    "How does someone who live here not know about this?" Chu frowned, "Did they beat you so hard you lost memories?"


    "Yes," he immediately nodded, ''What a perfect excuse!''


    "We have a library where you can read about it," Yun offered, "As for how it is beneficial, it wards away the ghost at night."


    "What do you mean?" He questioned glancing at the male who was staring at him the whole time. Ignoring the heat against his face, he turned back to the white-haired female.


    "With his energy surrounding this entire village and palace, the ghosts are restricted here," Yun stated.


    "Like¡­ a barrier," Bai Lan found himself saying sliding his green eyes to silver ones, "You must be¡­ very strong."


    He saw the small curl of those pretty lips and his own mimicked it.


    ''Handsome and strong¡­ every person''s eye candy,'' he found himself thinking.


    ''My husband,'' the inner voice stated and he found himself flushing, remembering that he was offered as the handsome man''s wife.

 Chapter 7 - What Would You Call Me

    "If our king wasn''t strong, then the leaders would kill him off already," Chu stated bluntly, "Everyone is so scared of him."


    The girls laughed, but Yun just sighed closing her eyes. The sound of footsteps entered the space they occupied and Bai Lan did a double take. It was a thin male with a cold demeanor as he brought out a large tray with prepared meals. Setting them down, the man with deep purple eyes stared at him for a moment before walking away.


    ''A¡­ a man too?'' He frowned watching the man about the same age shut the door behind him.


    "Ah! Ah Shen always make such delicious meals," Chu exclaimed clasping her hands before her.


    "Who is that?" He asked watching the Ghost King pick off meat to place into his bowl, before his own.


    "Ah Shen had been here as long as we have," Chu stated taking a bite of her fish, "The best cook there is!"


    "None of you have a family name?" He questioned with furrowed brows as he looked at the females, "Why is that?"


    "Hm?" Chu tilted her head with a frown, "Never thought of that."


    "But-" he was going to continue, but Yun interrupted him.


    "What else would you like to know?" She stared at him as she ate a small piece of meat.


    "What is your name?" He turned to the handsome man beside him to ask.


    It was quiet for a moment as the man named Shen returned, sitting beside Hein. They all seemed to be staring at the Ghost King as if he was God, like his very words gave them meaning and life. He felt himself gravitating toward the handsome man, waiting as if his words were the only thing to fill him.


    "What would you like to call me?" The beautiful eyes of that man lowered to his, as if to eat his soul.


    ''Oh my¡­ I am a cheesy hopeless romantic! How in the world did this happen?!'' He forced his eyes to slide away as his heart pumped out of his chest.


    "Why?" He questioned softly looking at his sleeve hidden hands.


    He felt those familiar fingers pulled his chin upwards and turned, so their eyes could meet. Silver eyes softened and he couldn''t help the pitter patter of his heart. This man¡­ the things he was making him feel was just too much. The Ghost King was too beautiful, too godly, too¡­ everything! How can he even be his wife? He wasn''t at his level of beauty, strength, knowledge, ANYTHING?! He was too much of a-


    "Wang Li," Bai Lan whispered out as the tip of his ears burned with heat.


    ''Strong, beautiful, a King,'' he thought it fit the handsome man perfectly.


    The king''s lips stretched into a smile that crinkled the corner of his eyes, and he felt as if his whole life became brighter. The voices of the females all drowned out and there was fuzziness haloed around the beautiful man. Head tilted slightly forward to the right, as long dark tresses slipped down his shoulder. The fingers on his chin held him so gently yet strong, anchoring him on the ground or else he would float away.


    "What do you want to call me?" He found himself asking the king without any thought. It felt so natural to ask that it tremored his heart, as he bit his bottom lip.


    ''It was the right thing to do, right?'' He told himself. He technically wasn''t his past name nor was he this body''s name and¡­ and since the Ghost King let him- a nobody- name him, then¡­ it was only right to offer the same thing, right?


    "Ying Yue," Wang Li said softly and just like the name given, he felt his face brighten up as if he was going to have a heatstroke. Reflection of the moon¡­ that was what the Ghost King thought of him? And¡­ to be given such a name¡­ it felt¡­ familiar, like this name was meant for him. It felt so intimate like-


    ''Like family,'' he told himself and felt his eyes teared up, ''Family¡­''


    In his past life, he was living in his fifth home. Pushed around from family to family like a used-up pet, he never felt as if he belonged at all. Even the other children would avoid him, pick on him, or accuse him of things he had never done. He stuck to himself and daydreamed most of the time of the man in red, wondering if this was all his life was. Were the Heavens this cruel to him?


    He remembered each time he was brought back to the adoption agency, they would shake their heads and sigh. It wasn''t that he was a bad child, he just had the heart condition. Some of the families were fine with it, but it didn''t last.


    The last family he had, thankfully, did not have children, but they fought every single day like a routine. The only relief from it was sleeping so he can meet his dream lover. There were no worries about his heart, no pity in his dream lover''s eyes, and touches, so many willing touches that he soaked in. The man in red with lips-


    ''He¡­ could he be him?''


    Bai Lan, no... Ying Yue wondered and his heart said yes over and over again.


    ''But¡­ that can''t be true. This must be a dream. Maybe I am not dead and just living a long dream?''


    Shimmering green eyes blinked and blinked as tears fell down his cheeks. Now it felt as if he was living and he belonged. If this man was the one in his dream, he would stay here forever with him.


    It was scary and strange to feel this way in a place he had no knowledge of. How did this even happen? Why did it happen to him? Did the Heavens finally take pity on him and granted him some sort of happiness?


    He felt thumbs swipe across his cheeks so gently. Then it stopped and the touch was pulled away, making him suck in his trembling lips to stop the whimper of loss. He was about to turn away when he felt a soft cloth pressed against his cheek, dapping against his wet skin.


    "Do you not like the name?"


    "I do! I¡­ do¡­ thank you," he let out a smile feeling quite embarrassed.


    "It has been a long day," Wang Li said softly as he pulled the small handkerchief away, "Rest after dinner."


    Ying Yue nodded not daring to look at the others. He made a fool of himself and his brain was hurting from his mess of emotions. Focusing on eating, he noticed how quiet everyone was and he was curious to see why, but he felt shame fill his vision. When dinner was done, he saw the offered hand of the Ghost King''s. He placed his hand on Wang Li''s palm as he stood up, balanced by strong arms.


    He heard the group bid their farewells and he turned to nod goodnight but caught the sad looks they all sported. Why were they sad? Did they pity him because he cried?


    ''How embarrassing¡­ how am I going to face them again¡­'' he thought to himself as he followed the taller male.


    Hand in hand.

 Chapter 8 - I Dont Want To Go Back

    A slide of the screen door and he entered that warm room once again. The sun was already setting, so he watched as the handsome man lit the candles in the room. The flames illuminated the milky white skin to give a warm glow. Bai Lan, no¡­ Ying Yue watched as those hands rid him of his pins and hair adornments, loosening his long light blonde hair to drop with a sway down his back. His green eyes just continued to watch the man before him, the man who easily took the name he offered, the man who wiped his tears away, the man who made his heart hurt, yet so full at the same time.


    Wang Li removed his outer robe, a soft blue, and folded it to place on the side table. His silver eyes looked into green ones as his hands slid down thin shoulders and arms. He left a small squeeze on those delicate hands, before pausing before the tie at Ying Yue''s waist. He saw those emerald eyes blink before nodding and his hands pulled to release the knot. His hands moved to remove the outer robe of his wife, but he could not help sliding his fingers across the curve of delicate neck.


    A small gasp escaped his wife''s lips and a blossoming pink covered those perfect freckled cheeks. Moving his hands underneath the outer layer to pull them over small shoulders, he leaned down so close to see those thick lashes framing those green eyes. He wants to kiss those lips, but he remembered what had occurred earlier and stepped back. He must not force anything from his wife, but in time Ying Yue will cave to him. When that day comes, there will be no going back, and he welcomed it.


    Ying Yue felt¡­ naked, vulnerable before those electric silver eyes, but he also felt¡­ aroused. Gulping down his anxiousness, he waited to see what the Ghost King would do. Was he going to¡­ were they going to¡­ was he ready? Lost in his thoughts, he felt a hand on his lower back leading him to the bed. Pulling back the cover, he slipped under it with his eyes wide watching the beautiful living art. His eyes followed as the man leaned over him, lips barely touching, before Wang Li flipped over to lay beside him.


    ''So¡­ that''s it?'' He felt peeved and yet relieved. Upset because¡­ well¡­ wasn''t he good enough to be intimate with? Comforted because he wasn''t sure if he was ready for¡­ that.


    He watched as the model beside him closed his eyes with his arms at his sides. He looked even more beautiful when he slept and that¡­ that was not fair! The frown graced his lips, but quickly left as he watched the rise and fall of his chest. The sound of his soft breathing was lulling him slowly into dreamland and he was scared. What if he doesn''t wake up? What if this was just a little trial like those stupid games? What if he does wake up and all this was gone¡­ and he was back to his old boring life wishing his dream man was real?


    "I don''t want to go back," he whispered quietly to himself as he turned his body to face the other man.


    There were still a lot of things he wanted to know about this world, this life, this man. Like a rush, the stories and words of those bastards in gold came flashing through his mind again.


    ''He ate her because she lied to him.''


    ''He is heartless and cold.''


    ''He is strong,'' those girls had said, ''If he wasn''t strong, they would''ve killed him already.''


    He covered his face as he curled his body like a shrimp. If he told Wang Li the truth, that he was a man and he doesn''t even belong here, would he be beaten, tortured, and killed even in death? He would deserve it¡­ right? All day he had been trying to tell the Ghost King that he was a man and not a woman, but every time he got a glimpse of the ethereal man¡­ he forgot about it. Groaning quietly, he let out a deep breath removing his hands on his face. Body still faced the sleeping man, his eyes were staring at a spot where Wang Li''s back touched the bed.


    "I am a man," he whispered so softly that it sounded like the puffed of a breath, "Tomorrow¡­ I have to tell you."


    With that, he closed his green eyes and drifted into a dreamless sleep. Unbeknownst to him, the silver eyes were opened half lidded and a smile was on those thin lips.


    Ying Yue woke up the next day, blinking blearily to find he was on the bed alone. He felt a part of his heart shuddered with coldness, as the feeling of abandonment laid its claws into him. Swallowing it in, he sat up and turned to see a new tunic placed where his old one was the night before. This one was a deep pink robe with small white birds decorating the sleeves and collar. It split in the middle to reveal the white skirt stitched to the robe.


    "This one definitely looks more like a dress," he told himself as he quickly undressed to slip into the robe, "At least I can move my legs more," he let out a relieved sigh. Fixing himself, he went to pick up the small mirror at the corner. Noticing he didn''t look so¡­ pretty, he felt his heart raced slightly. He needed to go speak with the girls, so they can make him presentable. That was all. No way was it related to him wanting to please the Ghost King.


    Leaving his room, he went to where he remembered the girls'' room was. He may not be smart or handsome, but he had great memory. He patted himself on the back for at least being graced with that skill. Knocking on the panel, he waited but no one answered. Confused, he slid it open slightly to see no one was there. Furrowed brows adorned his face, as he walked to the courtyard. Nearing his destination, he could hear the girls'' voices giggling and awing.


    "These girls are always so... happy," he said and found himself feeling a little lighter.


    He felt relieved to find them and walked over to where they were sitting, but stopped halfway as movement at the corner of his eyes caught him. Turning his head, his blue eyes widened as he watched Wang Li holding a sword. It was like watching a dancer perform intricately, yet skillful and light, of performance given thousands of times. Watching his body stretch and curl, before bending and jumping was like a musician playing a well-worn instrument. His dark hair pulled into a high ponytail swished with every turn and bounced with every hop.


    It was beautiful. He was beautiful.


    The sound of music filled the space and his eyes looked over to see Yun playing an old instrument. Her fingers were wrapped around the long handle, the pads of some of her fingers were on the two strings. A round sound box sat on her left thigh, while her other hand held the bow. The notes that emitted from it was smooth, sad, and yet so beautiful. Her purple eyes were closed as her head tilted slightly facing the man with the sword.


    Ying Yue looked back to Wang Li to see how quickly those steps changed, the swing of his arms, the movement of his swords, and the flow of his robe followed the music effortlessly. Ying Yue could not help watching and staring, drinking in the golden art before him. As he viewed and listened, he started to realize he brought nothing to the table. He wasn''t a fighter or knew of any sword techniques. He wasn''t a musician and he wasn''t a scholar.


    Just like his old life¡­ he was useless, just taking up space. Frowning at himself, he took a deep breath and walked toward the man in the courtyard.


    "Wang Li," he spoke up as strong as he could, "Teach me."


    Yet he was trembling and his breathing was getting hard to breath. Was he going to pass out? Was he going to die? Would he return?


    ''Would you rather die by your bad heart or by the Ghost King?''


    If he was honest with himself, he knew which answer he would choose without a thought.

 Chapter 9 - I Dont Want To Be Weak

    The man twisted and the sword, thin and long, paused in the air for a moment before it pulled back down to point at the ground. Silver eyes turned to him and watched him for a moment.


    "You want to learn?" There was the curl of those lips and it made Ying Yue''s heart melt.


    "Yes," he nodded as his platinum blonde strands slipped over his shoulder, "I want to be strong too."


    "Why?" The beautiful man asked tilting his head slightly and Ying Yue''s emerald eyes caught the sweat dripping down the curve of his Adam''s apple to his collarbone.


    "I don''t want to be weak," he admitted and found courage to stare straight into silver eyes, "I want to learn. Please teach this pitiful one," he bowed.


    Being weak was only going to be an issue, wasn''t it? Also¡­ if he were to get into an altercation with Wang Li, then at least he could fight back, and maybe get a chance to run away.


    ''Yes. I will do this,'' he nodded to himself, ''I will tell him when I am strong enough to defend myself.''


    As he waited with his head lowered in the quiet of the courtyard, he saw Wang Li''s hand holding the sword move forward.


    "Hold this," he heard and did as the Ghost King asked.


    Holding the sword, it was heavier than he thought. It was like trying to carry a ten pound chowchow up a steep hill. Trying and failing to hold the blade, he felt sweat build up across his forehead. Wow, he was weaker than he thought.


    ''Did this body not have any muscles at all?''


    Frowning to himself, he felt those familiar hands touched his cheeks. Fingers sliding through his hair to bundle up his locks, he could smell the scent of plum trees and wood and¡­ sweat from Wang Li''s skin. The exposed collarbone was so close to the tip of his nose that if he tilted his nose forward, it would be pressed against his hot skin.


    Fortunately (unfortunately), the sweaty skin pulled away and he was face to face with the raven-haired male. He felt his face flushed slightly, realizing the man had just put his hair up for him. Ying Yue watched as Wang Li went behind him to place those large hands over his to grip the hilt. Lifting it up, he moved along with the Ghost King and he found himself smiling.


    ''This must be what it feels like to float or fly across the sky with no care. This is amazing,'' he grinned feeling so free.


    The swing of the blade, the stretch of his arms, and the twists of his body seemed to spark something in Ying Yue. It felt almost like¡­ it was natural for him, like this was what he was meant to do. When they finally stopped, he was breathing hard, but the smile did not leave his face. Sweat slid down his temples, but it did not deter the blooming of his happiness. He had not felt this alive in so long¡­ he wasn''t sure if he ever had before.


    Turning so he could face the king, he smiled wider and opened his mouth to thank him, but the press of those thin lips touched his. Eyes widened in shock; he didn''t know what to do! He was being kissed¡­ HE WAS BEING KISSED! HIS FIRST KISS!!! As soon as that thought came, those lips pulled back and he felt himself wanting to try it again. Instead, he covered his lips and aimed his round doe eyes at those lips that just touched him¡­ that were just¡­ that were just on his¡­ his own lips.


    "Get ready for lunch," Wang Li said with softened eyes, "I will return."


    "Where," Ying Yue cleared his throat, "Where are you going?"


    "Do not worry," Wang Li replied with his back to him, "I will return tonight."


    "But¡­" He questioned quietly watching the Ghost King walk away, and when he couldn''t see those dark locks and blue robe any longer, did he realized he was still holding the sword.


    As they all settled to sit at the table and the meal had been placed, he stared at the empty space beside him. Without Wang Li, it almost felt as if there was a melancholy song that dampened the air around him.


    ''You''re being a sap,'' he berated himself, ''Why are you acting like a lovesick puppy? You just met him. You should be happy that he is away! The longer you have to live,'' he reminded himself.


    All that came out was a sigh from his lips as he chewed softly at the wrapped dumplings. As he stared at his bowl, the rice seemed to be moving and shaping into the beautiful face of the Ghost King.


    ''Stop it!'' He shut his eyes and shook his head.


    "Are you alright Madame Yue?" Hein asked looking at him with concern.


    "I''m just," missing Wang Li, "¡­ wondering why Ghost King needed to leave and," when will he come back, "¡­ what he does there?"


    ''Something must be wrong with me¡­'' he told himself.


    "Do you know why he is called the Ghost King?" Yun questioned drinking her tea.


    "Is¡­ is he a ghost?" Ying Yue questioned afraid of the answer.


    He had been wondering this the entire time he was here, which was¡­ one and a half day¡­ wait! ONLY one and a half day?!


    ''And I''m acting like a forlorn lover? What is wrong with me?'' He pursed his lips as his brows pinched in the middle.


    "He is alive," Yun stated after a moment, "Would it be appalling if he were not?"


    He made a face that he was sure was offending, since Yun looked away clicking her tongue and there were loud sighs from the others.


    "My apologies," he quickly said, "it''s just¡­ how can he be ghost? He looks too-" he shut his mouth and let out a deep breath from his nose, "Does he go to help?"


    "What type of help do you think he does?" Chu asked him with her big purple eyes.


    "I don''t know," he shrugged, "Maybe¡­ maybe there was a problem with a seal?"


    ''Isn''t that usually what it was in those stories and movies?'' He wondered. He didn''t watch much, but from what he had heard, there usually was a portal or something to ward off bad things.


    "The portal needs constant maintenance," Shen stared at him, "Only those our king deemed worthy may live in the village."


    "Oh," Ying Yue nodded, "Is it far and does he do it by himself or are there others?"


    "He goes alone," Chu stated chewing on her rice, "Anyone else would get in the way."


    They returned to finishing their lunch and when he was finished, he stood up and thanked everyone. As he was walking away, he heard Yun speak up.


    "You looked happy today, practicing with our king," she stated and handed him the sword, noting her easily holding it.


    "Yes," he smiled taking the blade and pretending as if his arm wasn''t shaking, "Felt freeing."


    She nodded blankly and was about to walk pass, but Ying Yue wanted to check out the library she mentioned. If he was going to have free time, then he was going to learn what he could. Who the sectors were and the world he lived in now. So, asking the eldest sister, she pointed him the direction to the place and he headed there. It was located near the courtyard, surrounded by plum trees. Closing his eyes, he took a whiff and felt himself relaxed.


    ''Smells like him¡­ I wonder if he sits here meditating?'' He laughed into his sleeve before tucking his light blonde hair behind his ears, ''Geez, a true sap.''


    Sliding open the door, he stepped in to see the library was very large. There were books and scrolls everywhere, like a collection through time. Blinking, he felt a bit of dread at so many hours he would be using up.


    "Remember! You are doing this to learn more and be smarter," he told himself, "Also to find something that can give you a one up on him," he nodded and clapped for finality.


    Grabbing a handful of books and scrolls, he sat down on the floor cushion- next to the sword- and placed the items beside the table. Taking a deep breath, he opened the first book and began soaking up the knowledge written.

 Chapter 10 - His Heart Seems To Be Pulling Him

    Wang Li had felt the tear and left Ying Yue and the others to close it up. Holding his wife so close and for them to be moving in sync brought back memories of a time so long ago. In synced with their blades, their hearts, their soul, their love making. Letting out a soft sigh, he stood before the barrier and entered. He spread out his aura to feel around the barrier until it found the rip. Sealing it, he looked over to the portal and stood waiting.


    A tear of his barrier only meant one thing.


    Someone wanted out.


    "Show yourself," he said sternly as the air around him thicken with a chill. The smokey blue portal swirled and twisted before a face appeared.


    "Ghost King," the voice greeted calmly.


    "What do you want?" His silver eyes narrowed into daggers.


    "I am feeling neglected," the man in the portal frowned, "You have been away for so long. Don''t you miss me?"


    "You know the consequences of tearing the portal," Wang Li stated materializing a dagger.


    "Eh¡­ but I have done so much for you," the man frowned with his bright red eyes, "Won''t you forgive me?"


    The dagger flew off his hand to float between them. The Ghost King marked the blade with his blood and shot it through the portal, stabbing the man on the other side through the chest. A swallowed grunt sounded and the blade returned to the raven haired male. Moving his hand over the dagger, the flame burnt the black inky blood left on the metal. Dematerializing it, he watched as the man in the portal laugh softly.


    "Still aiming at my heart," the man in black smiled and looked at him, "Don''t you know you already have it, Ah Li?"


    His silver eyes sharpened at that statement and he waved his hand to remove the image of those red eyes. Doubling the strength of the barrier, he walked for a moment before jumping onto the roof. Closing his eyes, the memories of the past tried to haunt him once more, but he pushed it aside. This time, it would be different. This time he wasn''t going to let history repeat itself.


    With that thought in mind, he watched as the moon rose and the sky darkened. The sound of the undead filtered through the air, like chiming of bells jingling at night. Transparent skins, yet they were lively as they chattered and went about their night. A few looked up to see him and waved happily to him, like a friend they knew. He nodded back before heading back home where his wife was probably asleep.


    ''Ying Yue,'' he felt his lips smile thinking of those big emerald eyes and soft skin.


    Landing at the courtyard, he saw the snow leopard lying outside of the library. The big cat turned to him and got up purring. Rubbing Snow''s ears and fur, he patted the head before sliding the door opened. In the darkness of the room, the moonlight casted into the room to reveal a body slumped over the table asleep. Wang Li walked into the room and bent down to see his beautiful wife breathing softly. Glancing around, he saw books opened, strewn around him as scrolls laid rolled out.


    "Ying Yue," he whispered softly as his hands cupped the cheek of the blonde.


    A soft mumbled as his wife leaned closer to his touch, making his lips curl up. Wrapping his hand around the blonde, he tucked his wife against his chest and lifted underneath Ying Yue''s knees into a bridal style. Walking out of the room, he stood for a moment underneath the moonlight and plum trees. His silver eyes soaked in the beauty in his arms.


    ''One day, Ying Yue, you will know the truth,'' he bent down closer to place a kiss upon his wife''s temple, ''When that day comes, would you still wish to be beside me?''


    ==


    [He opened his eyes to see he was surrounded by roses: red, white, pink, and even blue. The smell of it relaxed his body as he felt his lips curled up into a smile. Moving his eyes to the side, he witnessed someone in red walking toward him. His dark hair moved with his walk and his lips help a smile. Ying Yue watched the man stopped and pause as the wind blew by.


    Petals flew in the air around them and he felt himself walking toward the man in red. Walking turned into jogging, jogging turned into running, as the view of the man got clearer. His heart was beating happily, and his body felt at ease.


    Ying Yue felt his arms reached out wrapping around strong neck. His body swung as the man lifted him, spinning around and around. He heard himself laughing, before pulling his head back to cup the man''s face with his hands. Silver eyes were staring at him so softly, so lovingly, that he felt it touched his very soul.


    He moved in and their lips touched making him feel as if the world spun just for them.


    "Thank you," he said softly when they pulled away and his feet touched the ground, "Wang Li, my husband."


    He watched the man''s lips curl up into a smile before they pressed against his once more. His legs wrapped around the man''s waist and he felt hands on his hips rolled down to cup his ass. A nip against his lips and they pulled apart, smiling, breathing one another''s space.


    "I love you."


    "My beloved wife," Wang Li whispered and pressed his lips on his once more. Opening his mouth, he gave access for his husband to pillage and taste. Moaning, he squeezed harder, pressing their hips closer.


    "Easy, my love. We are outside."


    "Then take me to our room, my husband."


    He could feel the strong chest vibrate with laughter and he sighed.


    Closing his eyes, he felt whole, safe, free.]


    When he opened it again, Ying Yue found himself in the room with the candle unlit. Not moving from where he laid, he stared at the door thinking about his dream. This one was more vivid than before and it felt so real, like a memory that he already lived. This time¡­ this time he saw the man in red''s face, the man in his dreams. The same face as the Ghost King. But that¡­ that couldn''t be right, could it?


    If the Ghost King was truly the man he was infatuated with, would the raven-haired man know of his dreams? Would the feared king see dreams of him as well?


    ''This¡­ this can''t be right,'' He shook his blonde hair, ''A dream is a dream for a reason.''


    But his heart was telling him this was real. This dream was part of something that had happened before. A time where he was here with his husband, touching, holding, in love.


    ''What is this?'' He wondered letting out a sigh as his hand curled before his heart, ''Is this what people call¡­ soulmates?''


    Letting the word soulmate roll around in his mind for a moment before he sat up quickly frowning.


    ''No, it can''t be. I''m just confused and lost,'' he shook his head and stood up, ''A coincidence. There is no soulmate with a dream.''


    Convincing himself of that reason, he dressed himself and saw the sword laid against the wall. Smiling, he grabbed it and slid the door to see the sun shining brightly. Staring at the birds flying by for a moment, his mind wandered off to thoughts of freedom. His green eyes widened when one of the doves looked at him, so intensely Ying Yue felt his body twitched.


    ''What was that about¡­'' he looked at the bird as it flew away with its partner, ''Was that bird staring at me? So creepy¡­''


    He shook his head and walked over to the courtyard, hoping Wang Li was there to teach him some more. When he was heading over there, he looked over to where the library was. It was strange, but he felt his heart seemed to flutter in that direction. Standing and staring in that direction, he felt himself in confusion. What was there that his heart seemed to be pulling him to?


    ''Was it a compass now? A compass to where?''


    That thought made him frown as he headed in the direction of the library where the plum trees bloomed. Turning the corner, he found his heart calmed as the man in soft blue sat with his eyes closed. His green eyes took in the soft look on the handsome face and he felt his lips curl up. However, those eyes traveled down to see the large beast curled around his master''s left side.


    The head of the leopard was placed on the Ghost King''s lap, with his back to Ying Yue. Those long fingers patted and smooth down white, black spotted fur.


    ''They must be close,'' he told himself, ''It hadn''t killed or attacked me yet¡­ maybe it''s because Wang Li hadn''t told him too or¡­'' Ying Yue tilted his head, "It''s because I am close to his master¡­"


    "Ying Yue," the Ghost King turned his head to him and held his hand out, "Come."

 Chapter 11 - Want Me To Wake It

    ''Oh no, did I say that out loud¡­'' he let out a nervous laugh as he walked forward, taking the offered palm.


    He was pulled to sit in between the curve of the animal and his right thigh was pressed against the beautiful man''s left thigh. His body moved on its own and leaned against the warm body beside him, like he needed the touch. He relaxed his body.


    "Try touching him," The king''s baritone voice spoke softly against his ear, "You will feel at ease."


    Ying Yue felt those fingers wrap lightly around his hand, before he felt soft fur against his skin. Slowly Wang Li pressed his palm on top of the animal, moving his hand to pat before it was only his hand left on the beast. Running his fingers through the fur, he heard Snow purred and felt the vibration against his hand. He wasn''t scared and maybe it was because the Ghost King was there with him, but the animal never did hurt him.


    ''Maybe those bastards were hearing wrong¡­ they just wanted to scare me,'' he smirked, ''Jokes on them!''


    "So soft," he mentioned and heard the soft laugh against his ear.


    He felt arms wrapped around his waist and he felt his face warm up, but he welcomed the touch.


    ''Am I just touch starved or do I just want his touch?'' He wondered as his skin singed happily, ''We haven''t known one another that long and I just-''


    He shut his thoughts down and breathed through his nose. He continued running his fingers through soft fur and found himself smiling. He hadn''t really liked animals because they never seemed to like him, but Snow¡­ he was purring happily. Then a thumb ran up and down the hold on his waist, causing his body to shiver.


    ''Focus on the fur, good kitty, good kitty,'' he told himself as the movement made him bite the inside of his cheek.


    The thumb turned into fingers as it moved lightly up his side before it moved back down. Then those fingers slid down to his hip and he gasped. Closing his eyes, he felt the solid unmovable left hand on his left waist, while Wang Li''s right fingers played over his robes, but he swore the king was touching his skin. The hand ran over his stomach and he felt his ears heat up down to his neck. When those fingers rolled up his stomach and flattened over his heart, he gasped with his eyes opened.


    "Ah Li," he grabbed the hand with both of his, body moved back to press against the black hair man''s chest.


    Face hot and burning, he felt his heart beating quickly as he tried to calm down. The Ghost King had felt him up and he let him¡­ he let him do it! Something about that realization, made his body shook with anticipation and fear. Gulping a few times, he tightened his hold on the hand against his chest. He felt so embarrassed and angry at himself. He shouldn''t¡­ want this. He shouldn''t¡­ this isn''t right¡­ He¡­ He¡­


    "Your spirit core is low," he heard the man say softly against his ear, "It is sleeping."


    "Sleeping?" Ying Yue questioned turning to the side to feel lips touch his skin.


    ''A spirit core? What is that?''


    "Mm," Wang Li sounded watching the redness against pretty white skin, "Want me to wake it?"


    Wang Li watched the golden lashes fan before him, as his wife stared with his big emerald eyes. He could see the small freckles across his cheeks and nose, barely noticeable unless up close. He saw a short nod and felt the puffs of breath against his thin lips. The Ghost King smiled and then pressed his lips on plump red ones. He licked the bottom of that mound, causing his wife to gasp in surprised. He pressed his tongue through the opened mouth, gently kneading and tasting the roof, the inner cheeks, and the tongue. Twisting and pressing, he sucked the tongue gently, earning a whimper from Ying Yue.


    "Ah Yue," he whispered pulling his head back slightly to soak in the dilated emerald eyes, the flush of his face, and the way his wife was leaning in.


    ''So beautiful,'' the words spread through his mind as the platinum blonde kissed his lips again. Thin arms wrapped around his neck, as the lean body turned to press closer to him. Chest against chest, he wrapped his arms around small waist to pull the body closer. Legs straddling his hips as he felt his wife sit on his lap.


    ''Ah, I should stop,'' the Ghost King told himself and he let out a sigh.


    How he had waited for this, for him, for his lover for so long. Just having him near made the coldness, the urge to kill, be buried underneath the hill of Ying Yue''s love. He would not let him go again. All those years alone were lonely, a lone flower in the desert of death. Moving his fingers through those long golden locks, he ran his fingers lightly down the nape of his wife''s neck to earn a shiver and gasped.


    ''Still sensitive there,'' Wang Li kissed his cheek and down the jawline of his wife, before pulling back.


    The Ghost King watched the way those kiss-reddened lips tucked inside as teeth held it in place. Memorized the way those green eyes watched him hungrily, as the light-colored lashes flapped with every slow blink. Letting out a satisfied smile, he rubbed his thumb across those lips that parted from the touch.


    "Mm," he hummed moving his hands to place against twitchy hips, "My wife, how do you feel?"


    ''Wife¡­''


    Like jumping into fresh melted snow, he felt his entire body froze.


    ''Wang Li just said wife¡­ he still thought he was¡­'' his green eyes widened as he looked at their position. He was straddling the Ghost King like a lover would, and that made him stumble off a strong lap and warm arms. Both faced one another as they sat under the plum trees under the bright sunlight.


    "I¡­" Ying Yue started and found what he wanted to say stuck in his throat, like a rock lodge to block those words.


    "Close your eyes," the king said gently and he nodded slowly.


    Closing his eyes, he figured if he was going to die, then he doesn''t want to know how. But with his eyes closed, he could feel something warm inside him. It felt like a hug that was alive, pulsing against something. Opening his green eyes, he turned to the man who just smiled at him.


    "Is that¡­ what was it?" He questioned and watched the man stand.


    "That is your spirit core," Wang Li stated holding out his hand.


    "How come I can feel it now?" Ying Yue questioned taking the offered hand, still feeling the warmth inside him, "Did you really wake it up? How did you do it?"


    The Ghost King held his face with a hand, thumb gently caressing his cheek.


    "By adding mine to yours," he said gently, "I will always be inside you."


    Those fingers pulled away, as the Ghost King left. Still standing where he was, frozen with thoughts rushing through his mind. Wang Li, the strong beautiful man, had given him some of his spiritual power¡­ to him, a nobody. Ying Yue blinked that information in and felt guilty for not telling him the truth. Glancing at the library, he made a sound of agreement.


    He will write it out since his stupid mouth will not let him say it. As he entered the room of knowledge, he found paper and ink. He sat down and proceeded to write what he wanted to say the first time they met, but the words Wang Li said before he left rang like a bell in his head. Red faced, he placed the brush down and covered his face.


    "He didn''t mean it like that! Stop being so shameless," he told himself, but the words continued to play through his mind like an old record player, causing his heart to thunder as he nipped his bottom lip.


    ''I will always be inside you.''

 Chapter 12 - Which Is The Real You

    "I cannot focus," he groaned red faced, "Let me read. Maybe I can figure something out."


    So picking up books and scrolls once more, he read through the words, memorizing them easily. It felt as if he had read them before, like little missing pieces returning to his mind. As he continued soaking in the knowledge, he came across the history of this world.


    "Oh, now I can find out more with the sectors and stuff," he smiled opening the book.


    Each turn of the page, he felt his lips turned deeper and deeper into a frown. Was this really what was written for the people? This information wasn''t false or was the author was misinformed?


    "Four sectors: North, South, East, and West were formed by the Heavens and watched over by the sect leaders. The West Sector is known for their belief in the Heavens and created temples to worship them. The South Sector has an abundant of supplies from goods to foods and is known for their festivities. The East Sector is known for their warriors, loyal and disciplined. Lastly, The North Sector is known for their use of an array of weapons. No sector had gone to battle with the other due to the pact with the Ghost King. Each sector relies on the Ghost King to not only hold off the undead, but to keep the entire sectors in stability. For thousands of years, there was peace and many of the cultivators were no longer needed. Life is calm."


    Staring at the pages, Ying Yue felt the twitching of his eyes.


    "This can''t be right," he spoke up, "How can the entire land rely on one man?! That is not fair," the blonde stood up and headed to the shelves, "This author must be crazy."


    Books after books, scrolls after scrolls, all lead to the same conclusion: The Ghost King was the center of it all. It didn''t make sense to him. Why were the sectors so dependent on Wang Li? Did the Heavens not care that the weight was on one man? Was cultivation extinct? Frowning, he rolled out a scroll and stared so hard, it was as if he was burning a hole through it. Letting out a defeated noise as he placed his head against his palm, he looked over to the other table across from him.


    An image appeared like a lost memory of the Ghost King in red, sitting calmly with a smile. His silver eyes were looking down at his writing. Hair up in a messy bun, he let out a soft laugh and looked up at him.


    "Are you finished?" His voice, so smooth, covered his skin.


    "Almost, stay still," Ying Yue heard himself say.


    "Alright," Wang Li sighed and continued what he was doing.


    He looked down to see he was holding the brush dipped in ink against the parchment. A stroke of the brush here, a slide there, a twist around were made to form an image of the beauty before him.


    "Alright!" He heard himself say getting up excitedly, "What do you think?" He asked turning to paper to show the man.


    His eyes watched as the man in red stood up and headed over. Silver eyes held the paper and hummed.


    "You''ve improved," Wang Li nodded turning to him.


    "I know!" He laughed happily staring at the image before sighing, "Still can''t catch your full beauty though."


    He turned to see that soft smile on those thin lips once more, as those platinum eyes softened.


    "You can continue to practice if you''d like?" He offered.


    "I''ve already wasted so much of your time," Ying Yue shook his head.


    "No time of mine is wasted when I am with you," the Ghost King stated wrapping an arm around his waist, "Anything of mine is yours."


    "Is that so?" He grinned and tip toed up, "Even this?"


    He pressed his lips to Wang Li to feel him smile. Pulling back, he saw the beautiful man nod.


    "Everything," the man in red whispered before capturing his lips once more.


    "Wang Li," he whispered out closing his eyes and-


    Bang!


    Ying Yue sat up quickly feeling the pain against his forehead. Rubbing it, he groaned out loud as he returned to reality. Why was he thinking about the Ghost King again? He really needed to stop this lovesickness he was developing for that man.


    ''Lovesickness or a curse?'' He narrowed his eyes as he thought about it, ''¡­ sure feels like a curse¡­''


    Emerald eyes looking back down at the unfinished words on the paper he worked on earlier, he felt determination build up in him once more.


    ''Write what you need to on the paper and give it to that man.''


    So with that in mind, he completed his task and stood up. Smoothing down wrinkles on his clothes, he took strides to find the Ghost King. He had to do it. It was time. He shouldn''t be here any longer or thinking of the man anymore. Let this be the end. Let this whole thing be done with.


    With all this in mind, Ying Yue didn''t think he would be eating without Wang Li or sleeping alone again for the next two days. Frowning as he finished bathing in the morning, he dressed and crossed his arms. Where was Wang Li? Why was he gone for so long?


    "Madam Yue," Hien greeted, "Is there something wrong?"


    "Ah, no," he shook his head, "Just wondering when he will return."


    "We are also wondering," the brunette nodded, "He has been gone for a while."


    "Yes!" He agreed with a frown, "What if something happened to him? He is there by himself. What if he is hurt?"


    Hien watched her king''s new wife and found her lips curling up into a laughter.


    ''So he truly has returned,'' she softened her face, ''My king has been alone for so long and now that he has return¡­ will things be different than before?''


    "My king is strong, Madam, do not worry," she smiled at him.


    "I''m-" the blonde stopped himself before letting out a sigh, "I am."


    "Even if something were to happen to him, he will return to you, Madam Yue."


    Ying Yue stared at those purple eyes and that smiling face, before she bid her farewell to him. Covering his face with a hand, he felt it flushed from what the brunette just said. Clearing his throat, he went to the library where he sat underneath the plum tree. Closing his eyes, he could feel Wang Li''s spiritual energy and he smiled. From all the reading he had done, cultivation had to do with qi and one''s own spiritual sense. Taking a deep breath, he tried to urge his own core to awaken more by meditating under the morning sun, shaded by the plum trees, and light spring breeze.


    He didn''t know how long he meditated but when he opened his emerald eyes, the sky was dark. Blinking his eyes to focus, he stood up stretching up to his tip toes. He had not eaten anything all day, so heading to the kitchen, he hoped there were leftovers for him. Knocking, he waited to hear shuffling coming to the door.


    "Madam Yue," Shen greeted with his flat face.


    "Is there anything to eat?" He asked embarrassed.


    Shen stared at him for a moment before stepping to the side, leaving the door open as the white-haired male walked further in. Ying Yue stared and glanced inside for a moment, before walking in. The kitchen was large, but it seemed the young man only used one area of the place. He walked around and noticed the cot in the corner and found his head tilting in confusion. Did Shen sleep here¡­ in the kitchen?


    "Ah Shen," he spoke up looking toward the man, "Do you sleep here?"


    Shen was warming up the noodle soup over the fire, stirring the heat evenly. He nodded and Ying Yue found himself frowning.


    "There are so many rooms, why do you not sleep there?"


    The blonde watched the silver haired male pour the soup into a bowl, turned off the fire, grabbed the silverwares, and brought the bowl to him.


    "Would you like to eat in here or outside?" Shen asked straight faced.


    "The candles are already lit in here; I shall finish my meal here. Thank you," he said, and the young man placed the bowl and silverwares onto the floor table at the side. Pouring the warmed-up tea into the cup, Shen stood beside him. Eating in silence, Ying Yue felt like he was burdening the white-haired male. The boy was probably asleep when he came knocking, so the blonde ate quickly. Once he was finished, he nodded to Shen who cleared the table. Thanking the boy once more, he headed to the door and slid it open.


    "Just in case," Shen spoke up and he turned to the young man.


    Those purple eyes caught his green ones.


    "In case he returns hungry."


    Ying Yue stared at him for a moment as his addled brain soak in what the boy had just said.


    "Good night Madam," Shen bowed and slid the door closed before him.


    ''He chose to sleep in the kitchen for¡­ for Wang Li?'' His mind turned the thought in his head as he laid in bed alone, ''Wang Li¡­ you are so liked here in your palace, yet so feared outside of it.''


    He closed his emerald eyes with a sigh. An arm outstretched over the empty side where the man occupied.


    "Which is the real you?" He whispered in the dark, but what returned was his own upset voice, reminding him that he too was hiding something.


    ''I''ll give you the letter when you return, then you can do as you wish. I won''t worry about you and you don''t worry about me. We will go our separate ways.''


    He told himself, yet those words¡­ they sound all too familiar that it made his heart stutter with heaviness and his eyes began to water.


    ''What is wrong with me?''

 Chapter 13 - This Wasnt Real

    Ying Yue was currently swinging the sword the Ghost King had seemed to gift him. The blade was thin and long with every swoop and reach. He was getting better and better at holding the heavy blade with every practice. He found that every time he meditated, his core seemed to brighten more and more like a blooming bud. Letting out a happy sigh as he swung the sword one last time, he looked up at the blue sky.


    It had been a total of four days since he had seen Wang Li and he was slowly getting used to it. The palace was quiet, even that beast named Snow did not show. He ate with the girls and Shen, practiced his swordsmanship, meditated, and read with no interruptions. No unearthly being that was too beautiful to look at him. No silver eyes burning through his skin and etching against his heart. No familiar touches that made his heart race and mind jumbled. That was good. He was good.


    He was just fine.


    "Welcome back my king," came from the palace entrance and he felt his green eyes widened.


    ''He''s back!'' He found his heart exploding with happiness as his face brightened.


    Dropping the sword, he quickly ran over to where the mysterious man had returned. Light blonde hair flowed behind him as his feet picked up the pace. His heart was racing so quickly that he felt like he couldn''t breathe, but that was a lie. Stopping and staring at the man, he found his breath stolen.


    This was what it felt like to lose your breath.


    He watched as Yun walked away with the outer robe of the Ghost King''s, red this time. He had never seen him don a red tunic before, only a soft blue. Silver eyes slid over to capture not only his green eyes, but also his trembling heart. Then, his legs moved on their own, rushing to get closer- yearning to touch.


    ''I missed you,'' he heard in his mind as the vision of the man in blue merged to red.


    ''I thought of you always,'' he heard the man in red say against his ear.


    His arms wrapped tighter around the Ghost King, as his eyes pricked with tears. Pressing his face against the curve of milky colored neck, he closed his eyes as those emotions rammed into him.


    "Wang Li," he whispered with worry, as if this was nothing but those lifelike dreams.


    "I am here," the man pulled his head back, wiping his cheeks from the tears.


    Ying Yue watched the man in blue pulled out a red handkerchief from his sleeve and dabbed at his cheeks. He took in the softening of silver eyes, the look of forlornness, the look of hope.


    ''Why must the Ghost King look like that?'' He wondered blinking the rest of the tears down, ''And why¡­ why was it only me he looked like that toward?''


    A small smile curved on those thin lips and it only made Ying Yue feel sicken.


    ''Maybe he thinks¡­ because I was forced to be here¡­ maybe it''s because he still loves his first wife and¡­ he had to care for me¡­ maybe he is missing her,'' thoughts swarmed through his mind and he quickly pulled out of the man''s touch, ''I¡­ I am not a rebound. I can no longer do this.''


    He missed the hurt crossing the Ghost King''s face when he backed away from his hold. The blonde was too busy searching his sleeves and overlooked the pain the man in blue suppressed against his heart. The green-eyed male missed the way those familiar hands fisted, squeezing the red handkerchief in his fingers.


    "Here!" Ying Yue pulled the small folded paper from his sleeve and thrusted it to the king.


    Eyes closed not wanting to see what the man would do, the blonde waited for his death sentence. A few seconds passed and he found himself frowning. Did it take the Ghost King that long to read his writing? Prying an eye open, both flew open in confusion when he saw the furrowed brows of the raven-haired male.


    "I cannot read this," the beautiful man finally said aiming his startling silver eyes at him.


    "Wa¡­ what do you mean?" Ying Yue frowned reaching for the note, "Do you¡­ do you not know how to read?" He questioned curiously blinking at the man.


    "Your writing is horrendous."


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "W¡­ Wang Li!" He huffed out sticking his bottom lip out, "My writing isn''t horrendous. That is mean," he looked over to were Hein and Yun were, "They could read it, watch!"


    "Ah Hien, Ah Yun," he waved to, "Can you read this?"


    Ying Yue rushed over to the two ladies with scarves wrapped around their necks. He turned the note over so they both could see the ink writing. Both glanced at their king walking over with a sly smirk, and they looked at one another.


    "There are some difficulties," Yun mentioned looking at surprised green eyes.


    "Really?" Ying Yue frowned looking at his writing once more.


    ''Do they write differently here¡­ like their own language?'' The blonde wondered starting to doubt himself.


    "Our king has excellent writing, he could help you convey what it is you wish to say," Hien offered and looked over at her king.


    "Or you could tell me," Wang Li stated watching those plump lips opened and closed a few times.


    "I¡­" the blonde started and found himself hesitating, "I¡­ what I want to say is that I-"


    ''¡­ am a guy¡­ say it. Say because I am a guy, I should not be your wife. Say to let you go,'' he told himself, but all that escaped was-


    "-don''t like sleeping alone."


    "¡­"


    ''Oh my¡­ what is wrong with me?!'' He inwardly screamed as his ears were burning up down to his chest.


    "Hah," Ying Yue covered his mouth with a sleeve, laughing nervously, "What I mean is," he cleared his throat, "Would you please teach this pitiful one in writing proficiently?"


    He sent the most innocent look he could muster at the male with black hair, hoping it covered up his slip. Those silver eyes seemed to narrow a bit and he found himself nervously sweating.


    "Oh, but you just returned. You must be hungry and tired," he quickly said worried written on his tone, "It doesn''t have to be today. I think I could manage on my own or I can ask someone else. You are busy, I know-"


    "I will bathe first, then I will meet you in the study," Wang Li stated turning and paused to look over his shoulder at the blonde, before walking off.


    Ying Yue let out a deep relieved sigh.


    ''That was too close,'' he tapped his heart before his brows pinched, ''Too close to what?''


    His eyes widened and he patted both of his cheeks, upset with himself for even thinking of those feelings. He was not attracted to the Ghost King. He was not attracted to that man. He was not attracted to Wang Li.


    ''This wasn''t real. This wasn''t real. This wasn''t-''


    "Madam," Yun spoke up staring at him with her cold purple eyes, "Your cheeks will bruise if you continue."


    Startling himself, he pulled his hands away and let out an awkward smile.


    ''How embarrassing¡­'' he let out a sigh, ''I need to stop acting this way.''

 Chapter 14 - Even You Arent Perfect

    "Will you be joining the bath, Madam Yue?" Hien questioned holding the wooden tray with soap.


    ''Oh,'' he thinned his lips.


    The last time they bathe together¡­


    ''Wang Li had kissed my palm and¡­ his body was-'' stopping himself, he shook his head.


    "I will be in the study waiting for him," even though he really wanted to see that god-like body, "I will have tea prepared there."


    Hein nodded and walked toward the bath where she would join the Ghost King¡­ naked¡­ in the water¡­ together. Blanking his face, Ying Yue tried to not let that thought affect him. Bidding farewell to Yun and bringing the tea tray from a reluctant Shen, he placed it on the floor table he had been occupying as of late. Moving to stand at the entrance, he stared at the blossoming plum tree before him.


    ''I wonder,'' he found himself thinking, ''If the other areas have plum trees like here?''


    A sound caught his ears, making him turn his green eyes to the culprit. Dark blue eyes stared at him from the animal, the beast of Wang Li''s. His spine stood straight in fear. This was the first time after the bath incident that both the leopard and him were in the same vicinity alone.


    ''Alright,'' he gulped down telling himself, ''Snow had not hurt you before. He wouldn''t try now. Just reach out and pet it.''


    "Snow," he spoke up, "Did you want to be pet?"


    The large cat paused, tilted his head, before those blue eyes lit up. Ying Yue watched the white beast bounced to him happily and plopped before him. Nudging his head against the blonde''s arm, Ying Yue got the messaged and rubbed behind the ears.


    ''How cute,'' the blonde thought hearing the cat purr leaning into his touch.


    "There is no way you are a killer," he said out loud freely petting the beast, "You are just like a baby kitten," the blonde grinned when the animal made a noise in agreement, "You killing 40 people with a swipe? With what?" Ying Yue questioned picking up a paw, "With this thing?" He shook his head scratching underneath the neck, making Snow swing his tail happily, "Probably from your cuteness, isn''t that right?"


    The blonde found himself laughing happily as the cat made happy sounds from all the attention. He was so caught up in it that he jumped when he felt a hand against his lower back. Turning away from the touch, his green eyes caught silver ones. Relaxing from his tension, he aimed a smile at the Ghost King. Green eyes traveled from black hair down to covered toes.


    "You are enjoying yourself," the baritone voice spoke up and Ying Yue entire body flushed.


    "No I wasn''t¡­ I was just¡­ I mean you¡­" he started flustered looking away, anywhere but the man he was checking out unsubtly.


    "Snow," Wang Li smiled amused as the big cat nuzzled against his master''s hand, "¡­ likes you."


    "Oh right, yeah," he inwardly sighed with relief, "He isn''t too bad. Those stories were lies."


    "What do they say about him?" The curiosity of the Ghost King piqued as those fingers stroke through soft furs.


    "Mm," the blonde sounded, "That Snow was your pet and that he killed 40 people with just a swing of his paw."


    Wang Li''s eyes widened and his fingers stopped moving, but Ying Yue did not noticed it. The blonde had walked over and patted the Leopard''s head.


    "How could that be true? Snow is too cute," his green eyes looked up toward him and the king felt his body relaxed.


    ''Ying Yue,'' he smiled, ''What I would do for you to always smile.''


    "Let us start your penmanship," he walked over to the entrance of the library.


    "Okay," the blonde smiled bidding farewell to the beast, "I brought tea."


    The Ghost King watched as his wife sat down at the table and he found himself softening. That was his wife''s favorite spot, where littered of books and scrolls surrounded him. Ying Yue''s gentle smiles when he wrote, drew, and read were some of the best memories he had of his beautiful wife.


    A bright light in his darkened sky.


    "Would you like some tea, my king?" The blonde questioned and Wang Li nodded, digging the nail of his index finger into the pad of his thumb.


    He was finally here with him, yet Ying Yue still have not called him his husband. He once freely said those words as easily as the sun rising. Now all the platinum blonde would call him was ''my king.'' He walked off to the shelf near the other floor table. Reaching for a small green book, tethered together by a thin red ribbon, he pulled it out. The edges were worn and there were smudges on the sides of the old book, but it still made his heart happy knowing who it belonged to.


    Walking back to the blonde who was watching him, the Ghost King sat beside the man.


    "Thank you," he took the cup from those soft hands, "You should start by copying from here."


    "Copying?" Ying Yue frowned slightly and opened the book, "The whole thing?"


    "You could start with the writings on the sixth page," Wang Li pointed out as he flipped to those familiar words.


    His silver eyes watched the profile of his wife''s soft features, memorizing the similarities. Wang Li drank in the softness of his skin, the green of his eyes, the featherlight curve of golden lashes, the cupid''s bow of his plush lips. A beauty his wife was.


    "This is¡­ intimate," a soft pink dusted across those white cheeks, "Are you sure you want me to copy the letterings?"


    "Yes," he nodded, "The writer has excellent penmanship."


    ''The writing looks similar to mine though,'' Ying Yue slightly lowered his eyes suspiciously.


    "What does this word say? I can''t figure it out," the blonde pointed to a spot on the book and stared at the king.


    Those silver eyes glanced at where he pointed before breathing out a smile. Ying Yue found himself laughing as he shook his head.


    "Why did you say my handwriting was horrendous? You could have just told me you didn''t know how to read," he lightly bumped Wang Li''s arm with his, "Want me to teach you?"


    The Ghost King nodded and the greens of his eyes twinkled. The Ghost King, perfect beautiful Wang Li did not know how to read! The platinum blonde found himself giggling.


    ''Even you aren''t perfect!'' He calmed his laughter and pointed to the beginning of the passage.


    "Okay, follow my fingers as I read it through first, okay?" His green eyes looked to silver ones.


    When Wang Li nodded, Ying Yue started reading.


    "The sun rises with me and the moon rises with him. Beautiful he is with the grace of a king. Like the sun envying the moon and the ground reaching toward the clouds, when will I meet the beauty of the moon. A smile, a laughter, an exchange, and the sun met the moon- a beauty meant for the Heavens. Gentle, soft, and smooth as the sun danced with the moon. Under the twilight of night when the sun slept, I wondered if the moon thought of me. Did he yearn to be close like I do?"


    The blonde took in those words and wondered if¡­ was it¡­


    "Who¡­ who wrote this?" He asked looking over to see those soft silver eyes watching him, as if he never once removed them.


    "My wife," Wang Li said softly and Ying Yue felt his heart constrict.

 Chapter 15 - How Can I Have A Place In Your Heart

    ''So this was about them¡­ this was a journal, her journal,'' his green eyes blinked as he stared at those words he had just read aloud.


    "You must still love your wife," he said quietly as he closed the book, feeling dirty for reading the heart of the king''s first wife.


    "I do," there were no hesitation to the admittance which broke Ying Yue''s heart even more.


    ''Why does it hurt?'' He could feel the tickling of his nose, ''Why do I care? Why can''t he love me?''


    His entire body froze as his mind went over those last words: ''Why can''t he love me?''


    ''Why can''t he love me?''


    ''Why can''t he love me?''


    ''Why can''t he love me?''


    ''I love him.''


    ''I love him.''


    ''I love him.''


    Ying Yue felt fingers under his chin, and he turned to the man that somehow stolen his heart. A heart that never loved anyone this way but his dream man; a person that avoided touches; a soul that was destined for loneliness. He felt a cloth pressed against his cheeks, dabbing away his fallen tears.


    "I have been making you cry," Wang Li sighed dejectedly, "Am I so terrible?"


    The blonde held the hand with the handkerchief for a moment before moving forward to press his lips against the handsome man''s. Pulling back just as quickly, his green eyes widened and he ran. Out of the library, down the courtyard, pass his room, to the girls'' room. He didn''t even knock as he slid it open, shut it behind him, and moved to a bed to hide under the covers.


    ''Broken. I am so broken,'' he cried pressing his wrists against his eyes to feel cloth against his skin. Looking at his hand, he realized he had grabbed the red handkerchief with the golden plum blossom embroidered at the corner.


    ==


    The sun was starting to fall behind the mountains when the females entered their room. A figure had occupied Hein''s bed, curled up under the silken sheet like a ball. Looking to her sister, Chu let out a loud sigh crossing her arms.


    "Madam Yue," the blue haired female walked over to pull the sheet down, "Why are you hiding?"


    Her purple eyes took in the state of her king''s wife and she frowned. Disheveled blonde hair, puffy green eyes, and the small hiccups coming from those lips made her eyes widened. Was Ying Yue crying¡­ again? Her king had done nothing wrong to him, so why was the blonde always crying? Did he not want to stay?


    "Madam Yue," Hein came over, her words so empathetic, "Let me wipe your face for you."


    The brunette reached for the red cloth, but the blonde only pulled it closer to his chest. Green eyes glazed over and watery, they stared at the wall before him. Her purple eyes looked over to familiar purple ones. Both let out a sigh and waited in the quiet.


    ''Should we tell him?'' Chu looked at her sister.


    ''No. Our king said he would leave,'' Hein blinked back.


    ''But this is just hurting them,'' the blue haired female frowned glancing at the figure.


    The brunette moved to sit at the edge of the bed and placed a gentle hand on Ying Yue''s shoulder.


    "Lunch would be ready soon," she said warmly, "May we dress you, Madam?"


    She watched those green eyes closed for a moment before the man sat up and nodded. She looked over to Chu and her sister nodded, preparing the outfit that he would wear. Hein didn''t know why Ying Yue was so troubled. Were they not destined? Did he found out about what happened from before? Was he now avoiding her king because of it? Her purple eyes watched those green eyes now distant and cold.


    ''What is it that you are thinking Ying Yue?'' She questioned as her sister and her finished dressing him, ''Is my king not worthy of you any longer?''


    Makeup enhancing his beauty, hair pinned in place, Ying Yue followed the ladies out into the open air. He couldn''t avoid Wang Li because this was his territory, this was his home. He, Ying Yue, had no home. A suffocating feeling grew in his stomach and he tried to calm his breathing. The Ghost King was still in love with his first wife. How many wives did he have in which he never loved? What number was he in the long list of past lovers?


    Those words that he read¡­ he couldn''t get it out of his mind like a mantra on repeat, beating into his brain like an incessant drumming.


    ''To write an entire book,'' he clenched his fists, ''She must really love him too.''


    "My king," the girls bowed and he glanced over to see the Ghost King sitting still with his eyes on his tea.


    Ying Yue walked cautiously to his side and sat down quietly. If the blonde wasn''t busy staring at the table, he would see the thinning of Wang Li''s lips. If those green eyes would stop counting the lining of the wood, they would see the fisted hands at the Ghost King''s side.


    "My king," Yun greeted, "Madam."


    She sat down and glanced at the two men.


    ''A fight?'' Her purple eyes turned to her sisters and they shrugged unsure what to say.


    Letting out a soft sigh, she drank from her cup and closed her eyes. She had watched the Ghost King since he was young and knew the man was still just a boy. Still yearning for his lover, still wishing to reunite, still hoping he''d stay.


    ''I pray for you both,'' she thought softly remembering happy smiles on both youthful faces, ''Happiness does not become a curse once more.''


    Shen brought the tray of prepared meals and joined them at the table.


    "My king," the white-haired boy spoke up, "I am running out of food. I ask to go into town."


    Those silver eyes zoned in on him and he stared right back. His king, the man he treasured most in his heart, he would never fear. Many years ago, he was taken in by the raven-haired beauty, saved from the harshness of winter. He would not have survived in the cold. He was thin, weak, and tired. But his king, like a beacon of light, guardian of his soul, had touched him and he was living once more.


    Many feared Wang Li, but Shen only felt adoration toward him.


    "No," his king stated and he nodded his head. What he said was rule and Shen would always listen.


    "My king," Chu started then paused seeing those sharp silver eyes on her.


    "Will we not run out of meals?" Hien finished for her sister.


    "I said no," the Ghost King''s voice was cold, like dry ice against your skin.


    "Why are you being rude?" Ying Yue spoke up frowning at the dark-haired male.


    Startled, Wang Li turned to his wife, before they narrowed.


    "Why does it matter to you?"


    "Because they''ve always been nice to you," the blonde stated upset, "They cook, clean, bathe you, take care of everything!" His hands flailed as he spoke, "If you¡­ if you can''t be nice to them, then you will never be nice to me. Then I don''t want to be here!"


    Ying Yue didn''t realize he was standing until he was finished with his outburst. Blinking in what he just said, he searched the Ghost King''s face. He wasn''t sure what he was searching for, but he didn''t want it to be hurt on that beautiful face. Heart dropping, he looked away tired of crying all the time.


    "Do you wish to leave?" Wang Li asked in such a small voice, that he closed his eyes.


    ''No, of course I don''t,'' he found himself thinking and he turned away from them.


    "How can I not want to," he whispered, "When you are still in love with your first wife?"


    ''How can I have a place in your heart?'' He wanted to ask, ''Why can''t you move on and have me instead? I cannot be the other woman.''


    ''You aren''t a woman,'' his inner self stated and he felt his face fall, ''Yeah¡­ still haven''t told him.''

 Chapter 16 - Only One Wife

    [some rubbing happening in this chapter. Enjoy~]


    Lost in his thoughts, he didn''t even recognize the arms wrapping around his waist, until soft lips pressed against his cheek. His back was pulled against strong chest and he closed his green eyes. This feeling was nice; it was nice being this close to him, so his scent may linger on his clothing.


    "Come," Wang Li said softly pulling his hand gently with him, and Ying Yue followed all the way to their room.


    In the comfort of their quarter, they kissed gently, sweetly. Soft were their lips, slotting perfectly against the other. The glide of fingers disrobing, the smoothness of skin touching, and the gasp in the rooms made their intimacy heighten. His green eyes watched as lips kissed down his neck to his exposed chest.


    A flick of tongue against his nipple made him feel like jumping out of his skin, but strong hands held his hips down. Then Ying Yue felt this mouth suck on his nub, and he hiked up his hips with a gasp. Thumbs rubbed gently against the dip of his hips, as mouth continued to suck and lick his chest until they were swollen.


    "Ah!" He cried out when he felt teeth bit and pull on his perked nipples.


    His fingers dug into dark tresses, as his back arched pushing his hips closer to the strong man''s. Those lips finally pulled away from torturing his chest, but Ying Yue felt his eyes glazed over as tongue trailed down dipping into his belly button. Squirming from the movement of Wang Li''s tongue, he tightened his grip on those dark locks.


    "Ah Li," he breathed out staring at the ceiling, but then that deadly tongue dragged to lick a strip from the base of his shaft to the tip.


    "Ah," Ying Yue''s entire body shivered as he bit his lips, "D¡­ don''t. I¡­ it''s dirty to do that."


    He got up on his elbow and caught mirthful silver eyes, as Wang Li purposefully suck up the underside of penis and rolled over his slit. Body flushed even deeper, his green eyes rolled up as he moaned pressing his hips to feel more of those lips on him. However, the mouth moved up leaving kisses at his thighs all the way to his neck. Sucking lightly at his pulse, Ying Yue turned his head to expose more of his milky skin to the Ghost King.


    A strong hand wrapped around his hard member, as his other caressed his side. Both hands moved up and down, so in synced that it made his legs opened more.


    "Mm, ah," he panted out with his eyes closed.


    "Ah Yue," Wang Li whispered and those glazed green eyes stared up at him with mouth parted, "Do you like it?"


    He tightened his hold on his wife''s manhood and a long moan escaped those plumped lips. Face flushed; a face so beautiful as his made it hard for the king to not just take. Pressing his tongue into parted lips, he licked the roof of Ying Yue''s mouth all around the crevices to detail it all. Fingers dug into his back as hips pushed up against his hand.


    Doing that, his smooth thigh rubbed against the Ghost King''s own hard penis.


    "You''re so beautiful," his husky voice groaned in the blonde''s ear.


    Ying Yue felt him rubbing against his thigh and he bit his red lips aroused. The hold on his shaft moved quicker and he let out a broken gasp, clinging on as the pressure rise.


    "Ah, Ah Li," he felt the bed shift with their movement, hips thrusting, penis rubbing, building up to the climax that they both wanted, yet not enough.


    "I¡­ Ah!" The blonde shouted as the swipe of the thumb over his tip made him come, body tightening with tension before his muscles relaxed.


    Panting out, he let out a long groan biting his lips. He felt Wang Li''s hands pumped slowly before he stopped. Hazy green eyes looked at the male above him half lidded, realizing the king did not finish. Reaching his hand down, he tugged on Wang Li''s penis, doing his best to imitate how the Ghost King held him.


    "Mmph," the black haired male sounded and it brought a determination to Ying Yue''s eyes.


    Twisting his hold as he pumped, he watched those wet parted lips panting as silver eyes closed. The flush of his unearthly face made the blonde want nothing more than to make him feel good. He felt Wang Li moving his hips to thrust into his hold as those hypnotizing eyes stared right into his.


    ''So beautiful,'' Ying Yue found the king even more attractive seeing the sweat building up that he caused.


    "My husband," he whispered and Wang Li groaned loudly before attacking his lips like a hungry animal.


    Hips slowed to a stop as the Ghost King spilled against his hand, hip, and stomach. The kissing lessened up, but the nip and pull of his bottom lip, made the blonde breathless. Faces close to one another, they just stayed in the same position breathing in their intimate fornication. Ying Yue felt fingers push away strands of his blonde hair from his face and he smiled.


    This was his first time letting someone touch him, but it was as if he had done this plenty of times together before. No one else. Only with Wang Li.


    "You''ve cursed me," he whispered softly and the man above him blinked at him wide eyed.


    ''Did he remember?'' The Ghost King questioned, but what his wife said next made him smirk.


    "I can''t stay away from you."


    "Does that mean you won''t run away anymore?" He quirked his brow.


    "I can''t guarantee anything," the blonde stuck out his tongue and Wang Li took it into his mouth, savoring the moan from the green-eyed beauty, "S¡­ stop."


    Hands pressed against his chest, the Ghost King pulled back as the flush returned to overlay the blonde''s freckles.


    "I won''t replace her," Ying Yue stated and Wang Li tilted his head, curtaining them with his dark hair.


    "Who?" The king questioned.


    "Your first wife," the blonde frowned, "I mean¡­ you probably had a lot of wives since her, but you still love her so¡­ I don''t want to be a replacement."


    "I''ve only had one wife," Wang Li admitted as he turned to lay on his side, facing the blonde beauty.


    "Wait¡­ no other women since¡­" Ying Yue furrowed his brows, "¡­ then why did¡­ why did we¡­"


    "Because I love you," the silver eyed male placed his palm against those soft cheek.


    "You''ve never¡­ done this since¡­ your first wife?" His green eyes looked hopeful and Wang Li found his lips curling up.


    "Yes," he pulled his wife closer to him, "Only you."


    Ying Yue felt his body pressed against the king and he felt his entire body flushed once more. Wang Li said he loved him. Wang Li said he loved him. Wang Li said HE LOVED HIM! The blonde felt giddy as he sidled closer to the warm chest, but his smile dropped off his face when he realized something crucial. He was naked. They were naked. Wang Li had just touched him everywhere.


    ''Then that means¡­'' Ying Yue quickly pulled back and searched that ethereal face, ''¡­ he knows I am a man and he¡­ is okay with it?''


    "My wife," those thin lips said as fingers slid behind his neck, pulling his head forward.


    "You¡­ you don''t mind?" He questioned still anxious of the king''s answer, but all that worry dispersed when he saw the smile from the beautiful man.


    Grabbing his face, Ying Yue kissed those lips over and over, feeling as if a heavy burden had lifted from his shoulders.


    "My husband," he grinned happily, "My husband."

 Chapter 17 - I Will Join You

    "Husband?" Ying Yue whispered as his face hovered over the beautiful man.


    "Hm?" Silver eyes slit open to stare into the blonde''s eyes.


    "Do you ever wonder how this even happened?" He questioned letting his light hair slipped over his shoulders.


    "No," he felt hands trailed down his sides, "You were always mine."


    "Eh?" The blonde sounded before a yelped escaped his lips when he felt a pinch against his bare bottom, "Wang Li!"


    "My beautiful wife," the raven haired male whispered against his neck before tickling his sides.


    "Wha¡­ wai¡­ wait!" He screeched out trying to wriggle away, "Ah! Wang Li!"


    He laughed banging his fists against strong bare chest. The man, his husband, flipped him over and captured his lips.


    "Wang Li," he breathed out and opened his green eyes to find himself in bed¡­ alone¡­ again.


    He closed his eyes hoping sleep would take him once more; the place where the Ghost King stayed, smiled, laugh, and held him. Rolling his eyes at what a hopeless romantic he was, he sat up rubbing his eyes. Pulling the sheet off him, he noticed the clothing were for men. Smiling, he dressed himself and was finishing up the last clip when the door slid opened.


    Green eyes met silver ones and Ying Yue found his lips stretching into a wide smile.


    "Good morning!" He greeted happily bouncing in place.


    ''Should I kiss him or hug him or touch him¡­ maybe I should just wait to see,'' he told himself folding his hands behind him.


    "Did you sleep well?" Wang Li stepped in and reached for him.


    "Yes, did you?" The blonde stepped into the touch and moved to stand on his tiptoes.


    "Yes," the beautiful man replied kissing his lips, leaving it buzzing when they parted, "Ying Yue, I will need to leave."


    "For¡­ how long?" A frown graced the blonde''s lips before his green eyes sparkled, "Why don''t I come with you? I can keep you company and help."


    Ying Yue was hopeful that their newfound relationship would mean the Ghost King would give in to some of his offers. All he wanted to do was cuddle with the man and he knew maybe that was a bit clingy, but there was a yearning in his heart for Wang Li. With the acceptance that he was a man and the raven haired male did not even bat an eye to that, made his heart burst into beautiful colors.


    "I won''t be long," a small smile was on the ethereal face as his fingers slid down his cheek to his chest, "You''ve been meditating," furrowed brows pinched in the middle.


    "Yeah," Ying Yue smiled, "I think it''s helping. I can feel a bit more of my core."


    "That''s good," the Ghost King whispered softly with his lips straightened.


    "When I get stronger, I will join you then," the blonde stated and green eyes saw a tightness at the corner of silver eyes.


    A press of lips against his forehead and a small smile were all that Wang Li left him. It was enough¡­ but¡­


    ''No, no,'' he shook his head, ''He said he loves you. There was no reason for you to feel guilty,'' he paused and let out a laugh, ''All that stress in wanting to leave only ended with me wanting to stay.''


    Walking out of the room, he found his sword leaned against the pillar and he smiled.


    "Wang Li, did you drop it off before you left?" His heart swelled with the thought, "Are you a romantic like me?"


    Letting out a laugh, he grabbed the sword and went to the courtyard to practice. He would need to get stronger. No longer did he want to gain strength to leave, no longer did he fear the Ghost King. No longer did he need to hide. He wanted to get stronger to be with Wang Li. He wanted to be needed and give him some relief. He wanted to be his equal.


    ''Just you wait Wang Li,'' he said determined planting his feet, ''I will join you soon.''


    ==


    The Ghost King walked through the barrier and stared at the portal for a moment, before walking in. Darkness and trapped souls cried out to him, but he ignored them all as he continued walking. Held within this portal were deadly beasts, demons, vengeful ghosts, none of which he would ever let out into the village. As he stepped into the center, he looked at the relic he was creating. Slabs of stones formed and etched.


    ''Still will take a while,'' he told himself as he placed his palm on the artifact.


    "My king," the red eyed figure walked freely toward him, "Ah," the man sounded, "Still not ready?"


    He didn''t reply and the man leaned his body onto his, wrapping long arms around his waist.


    "Hm," the man sighed nuzzling his head against his back, "How I miss holding you, Ah Li. Don''t you miss this? Don''t you miss me?"


    Wang Li ignored him as he continued his task, but the red eyed male didn''t care. Lately the king would enter the portal to push his power into this stone the raven-haired beauty created with his help, and that made him happy. He was close to him once more, just like so many years ago. Closing his red eyes, he smiled enjoying the warmth of the king''s body, the feel of his strong back, and the sound of Wang Li''s heartbeat against his palm.


    ''So many years I have waited,'' he breathed out rubbing his cheek against strong back, as he remembered the first day they met.


    He was young, so fresh, so innocent. Eyes of silver looked at everything with such empathy and grace, a look that was not meant for a Ghost King. The chosen one to be gifted with powers from Heaven to hold his kind back, to stop them from living on land. How dare they think he wouldn''t fight against such nonsense? Did those in Heaven think they could do as they please? Why were their cultivators, their soldiers, able to walk on the surface when ghosts and demons could not? What gave them the right?


    So here he was, watching their chosen tool smiling, listening, and playing.


    They had made a mistake. They chose the wrong child.


    His red eyes glowed in excitement as he watched enough days of the boy, and now it was time to whisper words into those small ears. The first time he whispered in the Ghost King''s ear, the boy was asleep. The second time, he was having tea. The third time, the boy called him out.


    ''Sharp mind,'' he thought to himself and frowned, ''Maybe I''m wrong.''


    There was no way he was backing down, so the red eyed demon stepped out of the shadows in the child''s room. Silver eyes stared into red ones, as both just watched.


    "Why have you been hiding?" The Ghost King questioned, brows slightly furrowed.


    "Because you will kill me, young one," he stated and the child frowned.


    The demon noted their height difference, the Ghost King was only as tall as his waist and was around seven or eight years old. He was already many years older than the boy, and he found himself grinning.


    "I will not kill you," the child spoke up, "You have done nothing wrong."


    Red eyes widened and blinked in that information. Narrowing them, he rushed to the child and pressed the weak body against the wall. Eyes searching the young face, he saw slight fear rush through those light-colored eyes before determination.


    "If you wished to kill me, you would have already," voice strong for a child, "You are lonely."


    ''What?! What in the world was the boy saying? He, the best demon in the world, was lonely?!''


    ''Nonsense!'' He shouted dropping the boy and stepping back and leaving through the shadows, ''Nonsense!''


    "Ye Wu," the Ghost King spoke up, awakening him from his thoughts, "Release me."


    "I don''t want to," the red eyed demon pouted, tightening his hold, "Can you not stay longer?"


    "Let go," his voice turned cold and Ye Wu knew when the man was upset, so he reluctantly let go and stepped back.


    Wang Li stepped away from him and headed to the portal. He watched the man in red walk with his black hair bouncing with his steps, and the sway of his robe. He admired the beauty as the young man walked through the portal without looking back, without a second glance at him.


    That was okay.


    "One day Ah Li," the red eyed demon smiled slyly, "You will be mine again."

 Chapter 18 - Youve Always Known

    [Disclaimer: There will be smut throughout this and future chapters. Enjoy my lovelies~]


    Ying Yue was sitting under the plum tree with his eyes closed and legs crossed. Taking a deep breath, he meditated to feel his inner qi, his spiritual energy slowly flowing through his body. It ebbed and flowed like the river into the sea. He felt a slight change in air around him and he frowned.


    ''What was-'' he stopped suddenly when he felt a warm palm against his chest.


    Face flushed and ears warmed, he was about to open his eyes, when a deep baritone voice spoke against his ear.


    "Keep them close," he heard as a body pressed against his from behind, "Relax."


    Letting out a deep breath, he concentrated once more on his energy flow. With every course, he felt himself lighter. His mind felt clearer, like a small portion of fog was lifted.


    Just as he was relaxing deeper, he felt the hand on his chest move lower. Down his abdomen toward his pelvis, and his green eyes flew open.


    "Ah Li!" He shouted quietly, holding onto the hand to stop the movement, "We''re¡­ we''re outside."


    He turned his red face to look at the king, who held a smile on those thin lips.


    "Still so shy," Wang Li kissed his cheek.


    "Of course I am," Ying Yue frowned, "We only¡­ it was only one time," he finished quietly with his entire body flushing as the memories returned.


    The Ghost King watched the shy embarrassed wife of his and grinned wide.


    "Then we should do it more often," he whispered against the green-eyed beauty''s ear, "So you aren''t so shy."


    "Oh my," the blonde bit his bottom lip, "Stop it Wang Li."


    "Hm?" The Ghost King pulled back to see his wife blushing so beautifully, and he left a kiss on Ying Yue''s cheek before standing, "I will go bathe. Do you wish to join me, my wife?"


    He saw those big green eyes look up at him before nodding slowly. Helping the blonde up, they headed to the bath to already see the wooden tray with soaps on it.


    "How did they know you were going to bathe?" Ying Yue questioned confused turning to him.


    "Come," the Ghost King pulled him to the bench and began undressing.


    Green eyes watched as blue outer robe was removed, folded, and placed onto the bench. Silver eyes glanced over to him and he quickly looked away. Removing his own tunic, he folded it and placed it on the bench. He found himself fighting the flush that wanted to cover his face, as he removed what was left of his clothing. The blonde looked over to his husband and he lost the fight. His entire face flushed red when his green eyes took in all the Ghost King''s bare body.


    Eyes took in the wide shoulders and toned body. He memorized the tattoo on his right chest where it curved and clung to the beautiful man''s skin. Then, he trailed his eyes lower to see abs and-


    Body on fire, he forced his eyes up and saw silver eyes piercing into his heart. Biting his lips, he quickly looked away, embarrassed for such public indecency.


    "My turn," Wang Li said and the blonde turned to him with furrowed brows, but they quickly shot up to his hairline. Those silver eyes were drinking in his naked form and Ying Yue felt his body shake with anticipation.


    ''Anticipation?!'' He gulped, ''It''s only a bath. We are only taking a bath.''


    When those silver eyes met his green ones, the blonde quickly went into the hot spring to hide his body from the scrutiny. He watched the amused look on the Ghost King''s face as he stepped into the water, with the wooden tray.


    "Will you wash me, wife?" Wang Li asked with that same charmed smile.


    "Can''t you wash yourself?" He asked dunking his body in the water with only his head above it.


    "If you don''t wish to, I shall call for Chu or Hien to do it," the raven haired male stated.


    "How did you get so spoiled?" Ying Yue mumbled before stepping over to grab the soap.


    "By my first wife," Wang Li answered and the blonde looked over at him in surprised, before hurt crossed those eyes. He moved in closer to the green eyed beauty and kissed those pouty lips, "You are my wife Ah Yue," he whispered and his hands moved down his body to hold his hips, "Please spoil me."


    "Only¡­ only if you wash me too," Ying Yue said through his flush.


    "I will do my best to spoil you then," the Ghost King stated and kissed him again.


    ''Ah, he kisses so good,'' the blonde tilted his head slightly to the side, ''I want to kiss him forever.''


    He pressed closer to feel strong chest against his and he slid his arms up to wrap around the Ghost King''s powerful neck. Tongue pressing and twirling with one another, he let out a small moan. The fingers wrapped around his hips pulled him closer, making him pull away with a gasp. Glancing down, he could see their members touching and rubbing against one another.


    "Ah Yue," the king''s deep tone resonated against his heart and the blonde found himself moving his hips.


    "Ah, Ah Li," he panted out when strong hands wrapped around their manhood, pressing them against one another, "we shouldn''t¡­ ah."


    He moved his hips to rub more, to feel more, to breath in everything of his king''s. The sound of the water slapping against their skin, the pumping that started slow gained momentum, and their moans surrounded only the two of them. His arms tightened as he reached closer to his climax, squeezing his fingers harder.


    "I¡­ Ah¡­ ah¡­" Ying Yue tucked his head against strong neck, "husband," he whimpered bucking his hips.


    He let out a high-pitched gasp when he felt the hold tighten and pumped faster. Biting his bottom lip, he shut his eyes feeling himself off the edge. Panting and gasping, he let out a loud groan when he came thrusting into the tight hold of his lover''s.


    "Ohhh," he pulled his head back to kiss those lips. He could hear all the light breathes Wang Li was making and the blonde continued to taste them, lick them into his mouth until the Ghost King came. His name was softly whispered into his mouth, and Ying Yue found himself smiling.


    They pulled their faces far enough to just stare at one another, as if that were the only thing that mattered. However, the sound of someone entering the water had green eyes turned to the newcomer. Face confused before his face flushed with embarrassment, he saw both Hein and Chu joined them. The smirk on the blue haired female only deepened the redness on his face.


    "Would you like a new soap bar?" Hein asked in her kindness.


    "No¡­ no," he stuttered out and brought the hand that was holding the soap before him, "we have¡­" the bar was in pieces.


    Chu laughed loudly, while the brunette laughed softly walking toward them.


    "Here you go, Sir," Hien handed him the bar and returned to her sister at the other side of the pool.


    "Thank you," he turned away before what she called him crossed his mind, "Did you just call me sir?"


    "Is that not what your title is?" Purple eyes were amused, "We''ve always known, and we can see you clearly now."


    Ying Yue furrowed his brows and looked down to realize his bare chest was revealed. Blinking in that fact, he turned back to the females who were casually bathing. Turning green eyes to the beautiful man beside him, he tilted his head.


    "You''ve always known¡­ that I was a man and not a woman?" The blonde questioned feeling stupid. All this time he was pretending, but everyone already knew. Was it a power they had or was he just that terrible at hiding?


    "You are very pretty as a woman," warm wet hands cupped his cheeks, "but beautiful as a man."


    "Why didn''t you say anything? I feel so dumb right now," Ying Yue frowned.


    "I thought you were playing a game," the raven haired male smirked.


    "Why are you smirking?" He pushed the man gently away with a grin.


    This whole time he was losing his mind, but they had already known and were not angry with him. They accepted him and even care for him.


    ''Family,'' he thought and laughed when strong arms wrapped around him again, pulling him against warm chest.


    ''Finally.''

 Chapter 19 - It Sounds Like Fate

    For the next month, Wang Li had been there with him and it felt amazing. He was able to learn how to open his spiritual channels through the Ghost King''s help. In return, he was helping his husband learn to read, as he currently was doing. Although he felt a certain way about reading the man''s first wife''s journal, it made the Ghost King happy. To be truthfully honest, the blonde found himself looking forward to the reading sessions. Wang Li would wrap his arms around him, held him from behind, and pressed his body close to his. It made him feel safe, like nothing could ever break them apart.


    Not just the comfort of warmth brought him joy, but the writings of Wang Li''s past lover. She sounded very kind and sweet, someone who truly loved the Ghost King. From the way the strokes were, light and airy, to the deep words spread across the page, it was beautiful. Ying Yue felt he could never write like this, a poetry of love bounded by their memories.


    Every time they read; he would dream.


    It felt like he was relieving the first wife''s moments with Wang Li and it made him envious, yet happy. It brought a sensation of reaching the highest peak of the mountain, only to fall off the edge. Each new piece of words imprinted his brain, unlocking a memory of the two lovers. He felt like an outsider in a body that was not his. Maybe that was because it was true, but the dreams¡­ they felt familiar. It was different from his dreams in the other world. This was more detailed, clear, and strong.


    Like the first time Wang Li had wrapped his arms around him and relaxed against his back, he dreamt of when he did that same gesture.


    ["Ah Li," he heard himself sighed with a smile, "Are you even listening?"


    "Yes," the Ghost King replied with his chin placed on his shoulder.


    "Then what did I just say?" He turned slightly to see the raven-haired male in his peripheral.


    It was quiet for a moment and he felt himself shaking his head. Reading the book quietly, he felt the man shift.


    "Why are you not reading aloud?" Wang Li questioned and he could feel the frown against his neck.


    "Because you aren''t listening," he flipped the page as his eyes traveled down each character, "How will you learn to read, if you do not pay attention?"


    "Are you upset with me?" Wang Li''s head lifted from his shoulder.


    "No," he sighed with his eyes still reading the book, "I suppose you don''t need to read when I am here, huh?"


    Another pause sounded in the library.


    "The trees sway and the leaves dance to the sound of the mountains," the Ghost King repeated softly, "I was listening."


    "Then why did you not answer the first time?" He turned to look at silver eyes.


    "Because I was listening to this," the raven-haired beauty pressed gently against the palm over his heart.


    "Eh, Ah Li, you are such a romantic," he laughed to feel a kiss against his cheek.]


    Waking up after that was¡­ he still had a grin on his face and the place where the kiss landed¡­ he still felt it warm against his cheek.


    Then the practice of their swords, the increase of his spiritual power, and even them bathing together brought images and memories. Maybe his lover''s ghost was still here. Maybe she was mad at him? Maybe she wanted to show him how happy Wang Li was with her and¡­ he could not compare? He wasn''t sure and he didn''t feel like she was antagonistic toward him. At least¡­ he hoped so.


    "Your heart is racing," the Ghost King spoke softly against his ear and the blonde let out a small laugh.


    "Was just thinking," he paused for a moment before pulling away to face him, "May I ask you a question?"


    He nodded and Ying Yue took a deep breath.


    "Would you tell me about your first wife?" His green eyes saw the widening of silver eyes, before his lips lifted to amusement.


    "What would you like to know?"


    "How did you first meet," the blonde sat interested, "She didn''t write it in here."


    Wang Li didn''t say anything for a moment, as he watched his wife waiting for him to begin. Closing his eyes, he wished he could tell Ying Yue that he was his wife, his only wife. Restricted with the agreement with the Heavens, he was unable to unless the blonde asked. Letting out a sigh, he looked out through the door to the plum blossoms.


    "We met at the entrance to the palace," he remembered those big green eyes and platinum blonde hair.


    [He had been walking the grounds after studying and waited for lunch. Ye Wu, the demon, stated he was returning home for a bit, so he had nothing else to do. When he saw a straw hat flew through the entrance and landing a few feet away, he was surprised.


    ''Were the doors not closed?'' He wondered as he walked up to the hat and picked it up.


    His silver eyes looked over and caught emerald eyes. A boy, the same age as he, was staring at him.


    ''This must be his,'' he told himself as he walked over to the blonde boy at the entrance.


    Handing it over to him, the blonde stared at the hat before taking it.


    "Thank you," the boy had said, and the Ghost King nodded. But when he was about to walk away, the boy spoke up again.


    "W¡­ wait," the blonde called out and he turned to see him offering an accessory.


    "What are you doing?" He questioned with his head tilted slightly.


    "For you, as a thank you," the green-eyed boy smiled waving his straw hat as a reminder.


    "There is no need to give me something," the boy replied staring at him with interest.


    ''Why would he be willing to give me a gift? Is this what it is like to thank someone or is it just him?'' He wondered.


    "Just take it," the blonde grinned, "It probably looks better on you anyways."


    Silver eyes widened slightly, before the curl of those small lips lifted.


    ''Must just be him,'' he smiled, ''I should give him something in return.''


    He reached up to pull his silver pin, adorned with emerald, out of his hair. Switching in place of the gold one, he smiled at the blonde.


    "The jewels match your eyes," he explained, "it would look better on you."


    He saw the widening of pretty green eyes and he turned to enter his prison. Leaning against the wall, he heard the boy say that they were friends and that made him smile.


    "Friends," he looked at the golden pin and nodded his head, "friends."]


    "It sounds like¡­ fate," Ying Yue spoke up and Wang Li turned to him.


    "Yes, it was," he smiled sadly, "It is."


    "Childhood friends to lovers," the blonde mumbled sighing defeated, "How can I top that?"


    "What is bothering you?" The raven-haired male questioned seeing the frown on those plump lips.


    "Oh, uh," Ying Yue cleared his throat, "It''s nothing¡­ wait," he paused for a moment and wide green eyes stared at silver ones, "Did you say ''his'' and not ''her''? ''He'' and not ''she''? Your¡­ your first wife was also a man?"


    He watched those lips curl up into a smile and the blonde felt his face flushed. This whole time he had been say ''she'' instead of ''he''¡­ why didn''t Wang Li correct him?! He felt embarrassed and relieved, and then angry. But just as anger came, sadness interrupted it.


    ''That makes it even worse!'' He frowned placing his head on the table, ''He could hardly compete with a woman, but now a man?!''

 Chapter 20 - You Are Mine

    Wang Li just stared at his wife having an inner turmoil, and he found his lips thinning. Reaching to cup the back of his neck, he ran his fingers over the skin to receive a shiver of the blonde''s body. His fingers stroke the exposed skin for a moment, before running down the curved spine and down to his thigh.


    "Ah Li?" Green eyes searched his face and he smiled.


    "You are mine, Ying Yue," the raven-haired male leaned forward bringing the blonde down onto the mat, "I will keep you here forever."


    His hand cupped in between those smooth legs, and his wife gasped. Fingers reached to grab his arms tightly as green eyes stared widely at him.


    "Wang Li, we can''t-" the sentence cut out with a surprised gasp as his hand stroke and rubbed.


    His silver eyes took in the redness coloring the neck, cheeks, and ears. His hearing memorized the sound of his lover''s panting, and his touch soak in every shiver of the blonde''s skin. The Ghost King pulled back and pulled open his lover''s robe, revealing flushed skin. His mouth itched to kiss, lick, suck every part of exposed skin. Lips started on those plump lips, drowning in them as he pulled down the blonde''s pants.


    "Ah, Ah Li¡­ Li Li," Ying Yue panted out turning his head to part from those incessant lips, "Mm."


    Lips moved to nibble down jawline, the curve of his milky white neck, and to shoulder. Fingers wrapped around his lover''s penis and thumbed the tip where precum was dripping. It earned him a whine from those lips and a thrust of small hips. Lips traveled down to play with his nipples, rolling tongue over the buds. Mouth leaving light pulses, as he continued down toward his pelvis when hips were twisting from the movement of his hand.


    Wang Li leaned back, watching his wife with his legs spread, chest flushed, nipples perked, mouth kiss reddened, and green eyes hazed. He felt himself hard and pulsing to be inside the blonde, to feel him wrapped around him once more. Licking his lips, he pressed his tongue at the base of the hard shaft in his hand. Licking the twitching member, he heard the loud panting of his beautiful wife. He slowed his pumping as he wrapped his mouth over the tip, using his tongue to spread the precum.


    "Ah! Mmph," Ying Yue bit on the side of his hand to stop himself from screaming. Hips pushing forward into warm mouth, the blonde felt his eyes shut as those lips covered more of his shaft.


    ''So good, so good,'' he thought as he groaned and moaned.


    Then those heavenly lips pulled off and he mewled yearning for it again, but he gasped when he felt wetness against his hole. A drag of the long tongue made his hips twitched into fisted hand.


    "Wang Li," Ying Yue cried out shivering, "Don''t¡­ that''s¡­ it''s dirty, it''s-"


    He threw his head back when the fist pumped once more and then the tongue breached into his hole. Wet licks touched his walls and he felt his muscles tightened around it. It pumped in and out, just as fast as the fist was going, causing the blonde to writhe in place. Strands of hair plastered across his face as his back arched and hips bucked.


    "Ah," Ying Yue came with a moan as he rode out his orgasm; his hips continued to thrust slowly. He felt the fist and tongue leave him, so he went on his elbow to look. He watched as Wang Li licked his fingers¡­ the one that¡­ was wrapped around his¡­ licking the¡­


    "Let me, let me clean it for you," he spoke up reaching in his sleeve for the handkerchief.


    "Then clean them," Wang Li stated in such a cold tone that the blonde stared at him in surprise.


    Fingers, dirtied by his pleasure, were pressed against his lips. Ying Yue felt disgusted and wanted to pull away, but the cold silver eyes of his husband froze him on spot. Up on his hands and knees bent over the king''s hips, he looked worriedly at the man. He felt the king''s pointer finger pressing against his lips for intrusion, and the blonde hesitantly opened them. Tasting his own cum was¡­ not something he liked, but the finger in his mouth was¡­ something he did not¡­ not like.


    Another finger joined and then another. He felt Wang Li''s free hand grabbed his to wrap around the throbbing length. The king was¡­ big and long¡­ Ying Yue knew he was staring, but his green eyes drank in his husband''s manhood. Fingers wrapped around it, he pumped, and he heard a groan from the silver eyed beauty. Green eyes moved to look at the face that continued to watch him suck long fingers. The blonde pumped faster wanting to see his lover come, to see him enveloped in pleasure.


    Fingers jabbed into his mouth and he pulled away choking. Letting out coughs, he felt hands cupped his face as he tried to catch his breath. Silver eyes, no longer cold, looked worriedly at him. Tears that prickled at the corner of his eyes from the coughs, were wiped away by gentle thumbs.


    "Ah Yue," Wang Li kissed his lips softly, "I am sorry."


    "It is alright," he offered a smile, "I am fine."


    The blonde tightened his hold on his lover''s penis and pumped harder. He felt the hands on his face squeezed and he watched the parted wet lips. His eyes drank in the slight sheen on the beauty before him and how those silver eyes looked at him half lidded. He listened to the panting, the groaning, and felt the way those strong hips thrust forward. When Wang Li came, it was through a drawn out moan and kitten kisses on his face.


    "Let me clean you," the Ghost King breathed out pulling back. Ying Yue was about to accept the offer, but his mind went back to when he offered.


    "Ah, no, it is alright Ah Li," he quickly pulled his hand away, clearing his throat, and wiped his hands on the handkerchief.


    Ying Yue pulled his pants on and fixed his clothing, before facing his husband.


    "Should we keep reading?" The blonde questioned and Wang Li let out a soft laugh.


    "I will step out for a moment," he told his wife, "I will return shortly."


    "Is it the portal?" His green eyes watched as the man in soft blue stood, "I''m stronger now. I can come too."


    "Why don''t you patrol with Snow?" The Ghost King offered, "He must be lonely doing it alone."


    "Oh, was that where Snow had been?" The blonde frowned, "But I still want to join you."


    "Go with Snow or stay here," he stated and the air around them tensed and chilled. Catching himself, he shook his head and said, "You cannot come with me," he said more gently.


    Ying Yue narrowed his eyes and nodded his head. He will ask next time, every single time the Ghost King left.


    "I will go with Snow then," he said to see Wang Li''s shoulders relaxed and a smile placed on those lips.


    "I will see you soon," he kissed the blonde and walked out of the vicinity, his home, to find solace at the lake.


    Leaning against the large tree, he covered his left eye as a pain throbbed against it. An itch underneath his skin was pulsing and he clenched his fists against the tree. This was too soon, it was much longer before, so why was this happening now? Upset, he let out a growl squeezing his left eye, pressing against the mark.


    "A curse like this," he let out a cold laugh, "How could you call yourselves heavenly."


    Closing his eyes, he took a few deep breaths and looked out onto the lake. A smile took over his lips as he remembered his lover, his wife.


    "Soon you will know," he felt the breeze flow softly, "Will you leave me again, Ying Yue."


    ''Will I be alone once more?''

 Chapter 21 - Is His Ghost Still Here

    He opened his green eyes to see the females at the table with him and Shen who was staring at a paper confused.


    "Shen," he heard himself laugh, "what did my husband write to you?"


    "He wants me to¡­" the white-haired boy glanced at the brunette beside him, "¡­ hold him."


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "Let, let me see," he set his tea down reaching for the note. Eyes reading the note, he laughed softly as his eyes softened, "He must really love you."


    "I am certain he wrote the wrong name," Shen, eyes of brown, not purple like he remembered them to be, shook his head.


    "When he returns, you can hug him and see," he waved the note, "if this was for me or you."


    "Aw, Ah Shen," Hien looked at the white-haired boy with hands clasped before her chest, "it had been a long time since you received a hug from him, right?"


    "I don''t need a hug," a frown graced the boy''s lips, but the redness against his ears told them otherwise, "His acknowledgement is enough."


    Ying Yue heard himself sigh and patted the boy''s head with a smile. A feeling of relief and affection surrounded his heart before he saw his arm pulled back.


    "Snow," he called out and the beast trekked toward him and sat placing his large head on his lap.


    Running fingers through the fur and massaging that large scalp of the big cat, everyone returned to their work, but Yun stayed as he petted the animal.


    "Why is your wrist bandaged?" Her voice was just as poignant, clear, and cold.


    He glanced at his wrist and shook his sleeve to cover it.


    "It is nothing Lady Yun," he heard himself excused, "Do not worry."


    He felt a hand hold onto his arm and pulled it closer to the female. He tried pulling his arm back, but the look in those-not purple- eyes narrowed at him. Fingers removed the bandages and his eyes saw the bruises on his wrist. Purple and green bloomed on his delicate skin. His eyes looked over to see concerned in her orange eyes.


    "It is him again," Yun stated and rewrapped his wrist, "What happened this time?"


    "An argument," he let out a breath and pulled his arm back to rest on the table, "Something so trivial."


    "It had been happening more lately," Yun stated looking at the distance, "He will not be able to control himself."


    He heard himself laughing softly, sadly, "Do not worry Lady Yun," he looked down at Snow who was watching him with big blue eyes, "I will find out what is happening to him."


    "How much are you willing to give," everything was turning dark and the silver haired female along with her words were fading, "to find out the truth?"


    ''Everything,'' he answered and opened his eyes to see light in his room. Blinking to clear the sleepiness away, he could feel arms around him, and he felt his lips curl up. Warmth against his back, he placed his own hands over his lover''s around his waist. His thoughts still replayed what he just dreamt and the lasting determination when waking.


    ''Am I¡­ somehow, relieving the memories of his first lover?'' He wondered as his brows curved upwards, ''Things are different here¡­ magic could definitely be at play¡­ or maybe¡­ his ghost was still here.''


    "I can hear you thinking," a deep sleep ridden voice mumbled.


    Turning around, Ying Yue couldn''t help smiling as he kissed those lips. Happiness, soul mated¡­ he always thought they were lies, that it would never happen to him¡­ but here he was.


    "I need to know Wang Li," he pulled away and stared at his husband, "Your first wife¡­ is his ghost still here?"


    He saw something ran through silver eyes, but he couldn''t pinpoint what emotion it was. Then those eyes hardened and thin lips pursed, before the man sat up.


    "I see him everywhere," Wang Li stated getting off the bed and the blonde nodded, but he felt a sense of guilt for asking.


    ''Maybe talking about his first wife¡­ is too much for him,'' he told himself, ''I''ll have to ask the others instead.''


    "This one apologizes," the blonde stood up as well watching the man dress, "I am so pitiful. I have only brought you sadness and pain."


    "Ah Yue," he looked up to soft silver eyes, "You are the light to my darkness," he said softly as those fingers ran through his hair, "You''ve only brought me happiness."


    ''That''s a lie,'' he smiled, ''I''ve seen it on your face. There is hurt and pain when you look at me. Is it because I remind you of him?''


    Lips pressed against his and he breathed it in. He tried to kiss the sadness, lick the hurt, suck the pain, but when he pulled back from the king, they remained like the tattoo on his chest.


    "Shall we meditate together?" The Ghost King smiled and he mimicked it.


    "Are we meditating, or do you have other ideas?" He quirked a brow remembering how their meditation ended up being more intimate.


    He heard the soft laughter from those lips and the blonde couldn''t help placing a palm against strong heart. The rumbling vibrated through the chest against his palm and he smiled. There was something about knowing Wang Li''s heart was strong and beating that brought a sense of relief to him. Why? He wasn''t sure. Obviously, the man was alive, but to feel it against his palm¡­


    "Alright," he felt a kiss planted on his forehead, "I will tend to Snow while you meditate. After, we can cross swords."


    "Really?!" Ying Yue exclaimed dressing himself, "You think I''m ready?"


    "Do not rush your meditation," the king smirked, "I will be waiting."


    His green eyes brightened as he pulled Wang Li down for a quick kiss, before rushing out the door. The Ghost King watched his wife leave, excitement coloring his face. The smile on the raven-haired face dropped and he looked out the window for a moment. Hands fisted tight, he felt his nails digging into his palms. Savoring the pinch, the slight pain, he closed his eyes. Blood dripped down his palms, splashing on the wooden floor. Small blood splatter landed on his socks and the bottoms of his blue robe.


    Uncurling his fists, he stood still as blood slipped down his fingers, adding to the blood stains on the wood. He heard feet shuffling into the room, but he already knew who they belonged to. Not bothering to say a word, he continued to stare through the window. He felt wet cloths pressed against his hands, cleaning the blood away. Then the wrap of bandages around his wound before their touches left him. He was undressed and rid of his socks, before they were replaced with clean ones.


    Once he was clothed and presentable once more, he stepped out of the room to find his gifted pet as a memory plagued him.


    "Ah Li!" He heard his wife called out carrying a bundle in his arms, "Look what I found!"


    The blonde removed the wrap to reveal big blue eyes staring up at him. A soft meow left the animal''s lips and he blinked.


    ''A cat¡­ his wife brought a cat into the palace?''


    "Ah Yue," he started shaking his head, but big green eyes glittered at him.


    "He is my gift to you," his wife said softly as he nuzzled the kitten, "will you accept?"


    "A gift? For what reason?" The raven-haired male felt the gifted leopard placed on his lap. He watched the kitten''s head shake the rest of the cloth off him, before rubbing against his chest with small head.


    "For choosing me," the blonde smiled and kissed his lips, before sitting beside him, "he likes you."


    "Who else would I choose?" His brows furrowed as he turned to the blonde to find a large smile on plush lips.


    "What do you want to call him?" He looked down at the blue-eyed kitten, enjoying the scratches behind his ears from his wife.


    "What would you call him?" Wang Li asked.


    "But he is your gift," the blonde reminded and he smiled.


    "Then my gift to you is naming him," he saw soft emerald eyes look at him with a smile.


    "Snow," the blonde grinned when he looked at him with a quirked brow, "What? I am terrible at naming! You already know that."


    He laughed wrapping an arm around his wife and kissed those soft cheek, "Then Snow it is."


    His silver eyes stared at the entrance, taking in how much that small kitten grew. The Leopard moved to him, rubbing around him and tucking his large head under his arm.


    "I know," Wang Li let out a sigh petting the large animal before the entrance of the palace, ''You miss him too."

 Chapter 22 - Im Sensitive There

    Ying Yue was meditating for a while, deepening his relaxing state to feel the increase in his spiritual flow. It seemed with each passing day, it was easier to sense it, easier to feel it, easier to tap into it. It led to him feeling freer, less trapped, less fogged up. Like the darkness was dissipating from him. This also meant he felt less and less of Wang Li''s spiritual power within him, and although it made him sad, he knew it was only there to jumpstart his.


    ''Wang Li,'' he found himself thinking, ''I will help you.''


    Quietness, stillness, followed and he felt a strange glow forming in his mind.


    "Ying Yue," a voice he had not heard of before, but sounded familiar echoed, "You were chosen to bring balance, but you chose selfishness."


    "What? Who are you?" He questioned.


    "With your return, you must do what you were chosen for," the voice ignored his question and continued, "Bring balance. Leave."


    "Leave where? Balance for what?" He asked again confusion in his voice.


    "Go," the voice faded and he tried to reach for it, but there was nothing but himself.


    Opening his green eyes, he felt his spirit core flowing faster through his body. He looked at his palms for a moment before standing up. Shaking whatever happened during his meditation, he picked up the sword and headed to the courtyard where the king waited for him. Smiling, he quickened his steps and heard soft music.


    When he arrived, he saw the Ghost King with Snow and they looked like they were¡­ dancing. The big cat was twirling around Wang Li''s arm, up on his hind legs. Then he went on all four, low as if waiting to pounce, before flipping and jumping over the bended king. Back on his hind legs, the snow leopard looked like he was hopping with his master''s movement. Another twirl and jump led to the animal panting happily and rubbing against the king''s body.


    Ying Yue''s green eyes and heart softened.


    ''They must love one another to be in sync in such a way,'' he breathed out and walked over to them.


    Snow looked over to him and sat passively, tilting his head at the blonde.


    "That was beautiful to watch," he smiled rubbing behind the big cat''s ears, "Do you put on a show for the village?"


    "Sometimes we do," Wang Li nodded with a smile before it slipped away, "You''ve grown," he stated pressing a palm against the blonde''s chest. He could feel the movement of his wife''s energy flowing more freely, still not as before, but much more than he estimated.


    ''So soon?!'' He looked up to see green eyes sparkling with a grin.


    "Yes!" The blonde nodded happily, "Soon I will be able to help you."


    ''Okay Ah Yue,'' the Ghost King smiled pushing strands away from the blonde''s beautiful face, ''Until then.''


    His fingers glide to pull up blonde hair into a ponytail. He pulled a red ribbon to tie it in place, feeling the blonde humming against his skin. Pulling back, he kissed those lips and moved away. Chu walked over to hand him a sword and his wife ushered Snow away. Face to face with five feet away from each other, he watched determination cross those green eyes.


    He lifted his sword and moved forward, dashing toward the blonde. He watched the hesitancy cross the youthful face, before courage stayed. The clang of swords sounded, and the raven-haired male pulled back to swipe at the blonde, who barely blocked the attack. He watched his wife stumble back, before the blonde steadied himself and rushed to him. He was not using his full strength, but the look in those emerald eyes¡­ so much like before.


    ["Wang Li!" His wife had shouted, "What are you doing?! Stop!"


    He didn''t listen. He continued swinging his sword and felt his blood boiling to such a dangerous temperature. Then he felt a push, before his sword collided with another. His heated eyes looked into his lover''s.


    "Ah Li," those red lips whispered, "stop."]


    ''His eyes are so similar,'' he told himself, but his wife was not sad, he was happy.


    He stopped another attack from the blonde who was laughing with joy. Wang Li found his own lips stretched.


    ''He is happy now,'' he thought smiling back, ''I will keep him happy.''


    Another round, and another, until both are tired and out of breath. Ying Yue dragged his sword, arms weakened from the match, and pressed his forehead against sweaty chest. He felt a hand on his and looked over to see Hien smiling at him. Releasing his hold on the sword, the brunette took it away as her sister took Wang Li''s sword.


    "You did well, an improvement," he heard his husband say.


    "Mm, still tired after," he wrapped his arms around the man, "I know you were holding back."


    "Was I?" The king joked and he hummed.


    "So tired," he closed his eyes and sighed, "You don''t seem tired. Why am I?"


    "Your body is still getting used to everything," he felt warm hands rubbing his back.


    "Mm," he sounded and felt fingers wrapped around his nape, "Wang Li," he shrugged with a whine, "I''m sensitive there."


    He heard a laugh rumbled through the man''s chest, vibrating against his own. Smiling, he pulled away to stare at those beautiful silver eyes. Standing on his tiptoes, he leaned his head upward for a kiss, but the king pulled back. Frowning, he saw the mirthful lips of Wang Li''s.


    "I thought you were going to spoil me," he pouted with his big pleading eyes, "I am hurt, husband."


    "My apologies, wife," the Ghost King tilted his head, "What do you ask of me?"


    Ying Yue pointed to his lips where he was pushing them forward and back to create a kissing face.


    "I want kisses," he said and the laugh from those thin lips made butterflies fly in his stomach.


    "As you wish," Wang Li whispered against his lips before his mouth did as he asked.


    Ying Yue didn''t know how he was even breathing from how long they kissed. He didn''t know how his lips were not eaten up by the king''s bites. He didn''t know how his tongue was not already swallowed down by his lover. All the blonde knew was that he wanted more, more kisses, more skin, more¡­ more.


    "Ah Li," he pulled back panting out red faced, "Hungry."


    Glazed green eyes, flushed features, and plump wet red lips were so appetizing for the Ghost King, that he wanted to eat the meal and dessert.


    ''Later,'' he told himself and pulled back from the blonde.


    "Let us eat," he kissed his wife''s knuckles and pulled him gently along with him.


    Ying Yue was in a daze and realized he had told the Ghost King he was hungry. He did not mean food¡­


    ''I am the shameless one,'' he felt his ears heat up, ''Wanting kisses out in the open and saying that¡­ so openly¡­'' he felt the hand on his moved to press against his lower back, ''Thank goodness Wang Li thought I meant food.''


    They paused and his green eyes glanced at his husband to see he was looking at the entrance. Ying Yue moved his eyes to see Shen was talking to another male. Brown hair and golden eyes, he looked to be about his age instead of the young boy''s. He was smiling at the white-haired boy, but Shen seemed to be straight faced as always. His hand was on the bag and the man''s was on Shen''s.


    ''Are they-'' he started, but Wang Li had begun walking again toward the entrance, ''Why¡­ why is he walking so fast?!''


    "Shen," his voice was sharp, and Ying Yue looked at his lover.


    "Ah, Ghost King," the brown-haired boy bowed, not removing his hold on the white-haired boy''s hand, "Lovely as always."


    "My king," Shen bowed tugging his hand, "Our replenishes has arrive."


    "I wanted to help Ah Shen put these away, but he said I couldn''t," the golden eyed man pouted, "Please Ah Shen?"


    "Let him go," Wang Li said coldly as his eyes narrowed.

 Chapter 23 - I Am Not Him

    "Alright," the brown haired man sighed before he grinned, "If you let me help Ah Shen, I could tell you all about Sheng Shui," he lifted his brows and tilted his chin toward the blonde.


    ''Sheng Shui?'' Ying Yue thought about it for a second before his eyes widened, ''The shameless-!''


    "No! No," he shook his head, blonde hair swaying, "You should leave now."


    "Awe, but Ah Shui," the brunette sent pleading gold eyes at him, "Can''t you help a brother out?"


    "Brother?" The blonde questioned with a frown, "I don''t have any brothers."


    "Eh?!" Gold eyes widened, "How could you just throw us away? Ah Ling would be heartbroken," brown locks shook, "Besides, you must be doing something right to still be alive, right Ghost King?" Gold eyes looked to silver ones with wiggling brows, "He is known for how well he is in bed."


    "Y¡­ you!" Ying Yue felt his face flushed.


    "Why are you angry?" The brunette laughed avoiding the pointed finger at him, "You should be happy to have so many experiences. I''m sure Ghost King would have killed you otherwise," the brunette snickered seeing how red the blonde was, "He is insatiable, after all," he whispered against the blonde''s ear.


    "Shut up," he pushed the man away and looked up at his husband to see silver eyes narrowed. Even the hand on his lower back moved to wrap around waist, where fingers tightened, "It''s not me. I''m not Sheng Shui."


    "How can you not be?" The brunette looked at him incredulously, "I know my brother from anywhere."


    "Snow!" Ying Yue called out, tired of the brunette speaking about such nonsense and about a person who wasn''t him!


    The beast appeared through the bushes and moved to his side.


    "Snow, make this man leave," he pointed at the brunette, "You better start leaving now or¡­ or Snow would kill you with a swipe of his palm!"


    "You wouldn''t¡­" golden eyes looked at the animal with a nervous smile, as he slowly stepped behind the white-haired male, "Ah Shen," he whispered, "I don''t want to die. Help me please."


    Shen let out a breath and tilted his head at his king.


    "Snow," Wang Li spoke up and the animal, who had his nose millimeter away from the brunette, turned to him, "That is enough."


    "But, Ah Li," the blonde frowned and opened his mouth, but what the king said next made the blood in his face drain.


    "I wish to know more about my wife," the Ghost King stated, "Join us."


    So here Ying Yue was clenching his fists as the brunette was telling tales of someone''s past that was not his. Worried green eyes kept glancing at his lover to find those lips thinning more and more.


    ''I am not that person,'' he looked down, ''I don''t know who Sheng Shui is. I did not¡­ slept with so many people. I am not shameless like that! I am a virgin.''


    "The reason he''s here in the first place was because he had gotten under the dress of a Sect Leader''s daughter," the brunette said casually taking a bite of beef, "Here I thought he was dead," gold eyes curved with laughter, "Looks like I have to follow that book of yours more closely."


    "A book?" Ying Yue furrowed his brows.


    "Yeah," the brunette reached into his robe, "Ah, here it is," he waved the book, "You should be proud of me. I sold so many."


    The blonde read the title to say, "How to capture the heart. Easy how to for everyone." Face fallen, he turned the book with shaky hands to see in bold print: Beauty. There was a list written and a drawing of himself. Turning to the next page, he saw the word Shy in bold print. Another page and another, had bold printed title of meekness, virgin, and sex positions- had the most pages and images. Flipping the book closed, he felt his heart racing, feeling sick to his stomach. How could someone make a book like-


    The book was pulled from under his hand and his eyes stared at the Ghost King. Silver eyes stared at the pages, before they looked almost deadly at the end of the book. Ying Yue felt his body shiver from how cold those eyes were.


    "It isn''t me," he tried, "I am not Sheng Shui."


    The brunette male was about to speak up, but Shen covered his lips. Gold eyes turned to the male to see not only the white-haired male, but all set of purple eyes on him. Blinking that in, he nodded slowly and stuffed his mouth to shut himself up.


    "It seems you have done much without me," the king whispered harshly against his ears, "I don''t know if I should be envious or amused."


    "Ah Li," he clenched his fingers on his lap, "I am not him."


    "How do I know?" He felt the man nibble on his ear and he bit his lip, "Can you truly tell me you''ve never been touched," a warm hand moved from his neck down chest and rubbed his thigh, "yet drew such vivid scenes."


    What could he say? Wang Li wasn''t believing him and no one was stopping him, not even that big mouthed ''brother'' of his. Holding back the tears, he pursed his lips and waited. He enjoyed being with Wang Li and living in his home. If¡­ if this was what it took for the man to forgive him- though it was something he had no part of- he will¡­ he will do it.


    He felt the man pulled away and stared at him for a moment.


    "Bring the rest of the copies here by sundown," the Ghost King stated not removing his eyes on his wife, "and burn them."


    A choking was sounded as the brunette coughed.


    "By sundown?!" Golden eyes stared at the king, "It might take me more than one trip," he frowned before it spread into a grin, "But if Ah Shen comes with me, then we would be able to gather it all by then."


    "You just want to be alone with Ah Shen," Hien frowned at the brunette.


    "He is a boy, Ah Hien," the golden eyed man showed his teeth, "I won''t have to fight boys off him like I would you and Ah Chu."


    "Ah Mo," the blue haired female shook her head, "What about Ah Yun?"


    "Ah Yun would scare everyone away," the brunette male paused for a moment, "Unless Ah Yun wants to see my brother?" Eyes moving in waves off his face to the female''s.


    It was quiet for a moment and Wang Li looked over at the oldest female to see her eyes looking faraway.


    "Shen," he spoke up, "Return with every copy and any other from Sheng Shui."


    "Yes, my king," the young man nodded, stood, bowed, and headed to the entrance of the palace.


    "Eh, wait Ah Shen," the brunette stood up and bowed before catching up the white-haired male.


    Wang Li then looked toward his wife, who was eating slowly and quietly. He gritted his teeth and continued eating. When they were finished, he stood up and headed to the bath. Soaking into the heat of the water, he let out a breath. It was getting harder and harder for him to hold back. He was hurting his wife and that was not what he wanted to do. Pressing a hand against his left eye, he let out a groan.


    "Would you like me to wash you?" Ying Yue asked quietly holding the wooden tray.


    ''I really hurt him,'' he thought seeing the down casted face.


    "No," he turned away from the blonde, "You can just leave it there."

 Chapter 24 - I Hope You Love Me Too

    If the Ghost King were to look, he would see the hurt cross his feature. If the raven-haired male turned around, he would see how hard he was squeezing the wooden tray. If Wang Li would glance behind him, he would see how hard he was trying not to cry.


    Ying Yue walked with his back straight out of the bath, but he moved quickly to his room and threw himself on the bed.


    ''Stupid, stupid, stupid,'' he berated himself and covered his face.


    Letting out a breath he turned around to sit up on the bed. Looking out the window, he just stared for a moment before closing his eyes. Hand on his heart, he felt the beating of his organ and the flow of his spiritual energy. He would have to learn more about what he could do with his power. What could he create and use it for? He knew it helped him increase his strength and speed quicker.


    ''But what else?'' His eyes opened and he turned to the book that ruined his short-lived happiness. He looked at it for a moment to notice the similarities of this book with the journal from the first wife. A soft green with red ribbon binding the pages together. He took a moment before grabbing the book once more. He opened it again and read through the pages.


    ''The writing¡­'' he found his brows pinching together, ''They looked just like his¡­''


    He- hesitantly- look at the drawings closer and his forehead creased in confusion.


    "The strokes¡­ it isn''t possible¡­" he told himself, "Wang Li said he wanted to learn more about me-which was actually Sheng Shui," his mind was running, "It isn''t possible that he was Ah Li''s wife unless they were separated for a period of time¡­ he was so angry when he looked through the book and he said that he had done much without him¡­ like he should have been there with him¡­" A lightbulb sparked in his mind as he stood up quickly, "Sheng Shui was his first wife!"


    The book fell to the floor and he stared before him in shock.


    ''It made so much sense!'' His mind provided, ''How he looked at me so softly, touch me gently, and kissed me with no hesitation like we''ve kissed so many times! And he mentioned that his wife was everywhere because he was! I have his body! Oh no, does that mean¡­ when he said he loves me, that was meant for Sheng Shui?!''


    The door opened and he stared at the raven-haired male.


    "What is the matter?" Worry coated the king''s voice as he moved to him quickly. Hands holding his shoulders as silver eyes pierced into his emerald ones.


    "You," he blinked his wide green eyes, "I¡­ you¡­ me¡­ he¡­"


    "What is it?" Silver eyes searched his face and he cleared his throat.


    "Wang Li," he stated faking his strength, "your first wife," he held his breath, "... was Sheng Shui, wasn''t it?"


    "What?" The Ghost King questioned.


    "Sheng Shui¡­ he was your wife, wasn''t he?" Ying Yue spoke up like he had just been enlightened, "You two loved each other, but something happened, and he left, right?" He saw silver eyes widened and that made the blonde even more confident, "And then he¡­ something happened to him. Maybe he died," he grabbed the male''s arm, "That''s why you¡­ that is why you haven''t killed me because I look like him."


    ''That''s why you said I love you,'' he didn''t say.


    Green eyes watched as silver eyes searched his face with his hands tightening around his arms.


    "You''re right," Wang Li removed his touch as he stood tall, looking at him from under his nose, "My first wife and I loved one another, but he left me," an admission so cold, "He died," sharp silver eyes gave him chills, "now you''re here and you are my wife."


    Ying Yue felt himself gulp down his excess saliva, unsure if it was from the fear or arousal for the man.


    "I know¡­ you still love him," the blonde looked down before facing him head on, "But I hope you love me too."


    Wang Li found himself in surprise. His wife, Ying Yue, still did not know¡­


    "I already do," he smiled and leaned down to capture red lips with his, "I love you, Ying Yue."


    "I love you more Wang Li," the blonde breathed against his lips and laughed when he felt his back against the bed.


    "Do you?" The Ghost King questioned pulling back to watch the pleased smile on those pretty lips.


    Arms reached for him and he moved, pulled toward the blonde as lips attached to one another once more. Each time they kissed, Wang Li felt more at ease, as if life were brought back into him and yet he knew it would pull him further away. Legs wrapped around his hips, he pressed deeper as his hands unclipped his wife''s clothing. Heaving chest revealed and his hands traveled down to grip at hips.


    "Ah Li," the blonde looked at him with his face flushed and a loving smile on those lips, "I love you."


    Grinding his hips, he watched his beautiful wife grabbed the sheets. Head turned away to reveal his smooth neck, Wang Li was reminded of the past, of their first time.


    ["I do not deserve you," he whispered watching the gasping from the man below him.


    "Ah Li," the blonde panted out, "I should¡­ be the one saying that."


    "Ah Yue," he pushed harder to earn a sharp gasp, "my beautiful wife."


    "Why¡­ why must I," a grunted moan left those red lips, "Be the¡­ the wife."


    "Shouldn''t¡­ the wife be the most beautiful?" He questioned picking up his thrusts.


    "Ah!" the blonde''s thighs gripped his waist tighter, "Oh Ah Li¡­ mmph¡­ why isn''t¡­ it¡­ you," his wife panted out with tears pricking the corner of his eyes.


    "If I''m beautiful," he grinned, "Then you are heavenly."


    Hips pushing and pulling as he pulsed inside Ying Yue''s tight walls; he could feel how close the blonde was. He bent forward, pulling his legs forward as he kissed those panting mouth.


    "Oh, Ah Li," the blonde whimpered gripping his hair, "Ah, faster!"


    Wang Li did as his wife asked and thrust harder, faster, as he tucked his head against the blonde. He could feel himself reaching his limits, so he reached down between them for his lover''s member. Fisting it in his, he pumped fast like his movements and heard Ying Yue cry out loudly. He quickly came afterwards, slowing his hips as he pumped into the beauty beneath him. Letting out a sigh, he pulled back kissing those red lips.


    "I can never win with you," the blonde sighed smiling, as fingers wiped the strands from his face, "my husband."]


    Kissing those lips again, his silver eyes closed and savored the moan against his mouth. Opening them again, he saw Ying Yue''s face flushed and breathing hard with green eyes dilated with lust.


    "We¡­ we dirtied our pants," the blonde breathed out kissing his neck.


    "The girls will clean them," he mentioned enjoying the light nips to his skin.


    "No, no," Ying Yue pulled away to look at him, "How embarrassing. I don''t want them to¡­ see what we did."


    He let out a laugh and kissed those lips again.


    "Is it not too late?" He tilted his head as black hair shifted over his shoulder, "The door was not closed."


    Green eyes widened and looked to the door. Redness took over his face as he pressed his burning face against hot chest.


    "Wang Li," he whined, "Why did you not close the door?"


    "Maybe I want everyone to hear you," he whispered deeply into his wife''s ear.


    "Ah Li!" Ying Yue playfully pounded his chest, "Have you no face?"


    The king grinned and his green eyes widened. He had never seen such beauty like that smile before. How was his husband so perfect?


    ''Thank you Sheng Shui for giving him to me,'' he smiled, ''For letting me love him, even if it is you that he loves.''

 Chapter 25 - I Heard There Are Ghosts

    The white-haired man walked along the road with the brunette next to him. He glanced at the brunette who was chatting away happily as if the strange looks people were giving him didn''t bothered the male. No matter where he went, people would stare with many different looks. Mainly they were fear and suspicion, but this man with his golden eyes only stared at him with¡­ fascination. To say it was confusing was an understatement.


    "Did you hear?" He heard a group of young females gossiping, "The west sector had offered the Ghost King a bride!"


    "Oh yes! I heard she had to beg Sect Leader Fang for forgiveness," another girl spoke up.


    "Ah, but Sect Leader Fang knew her beauty would contain the Ghost King," another said.


    "Yeah," the previous female nodded, "the Ghost King was getting quite antsy. Did you realize that it got warmer now?"


    "Thanks to that woman, we could live peacefully," another laughed, "Poor her. She must be bored being stuck in such a place."


    "Right! I heard there are ghosts living in that palace," she shivered, "Ugh! How disgusting."


    Shen shut them out, but the brunette decided to pull him along as he spoke up.


    "Hello ladies," Han Mo greeted with a charming smile.


    "Oh, hello," the girls greeted brightly.


    "What is this I hear about ghosts?" He questioned.


    "Are you a cultivator?" One of the females questioned noticing the sword.


    "Ah, a longtime ago," the brunette waved off, "Tell me about these ghosts."


    "Uh," one of the females started, "Well, I heard there were ghosts living with the Ghost King and they care for him."


    "Hm, interesting," his gold eyes turned to Shen, looked him up and down, before turning back to the females, "I''ve been to the palace on an errand. I do not see any ghosts."


    "What?" They looked at one another shocked, "An errand for¡­ the Ghost King?"


    "Well¡­" he scratched his cheek, "More for someone close to him."


    "Eh? Who?" The females looked at him and waited for an answer.


    "This guy," he held up his hand that was holding Shen''s.


    The white-haired man looked at the females to see their mouth dropped.


    "He¡­ he''s¡­" the females stuttered out and the brunette laughed.


    "I know, I know," he grinned, "He''s pretty," he winked at Shen and turned them around to walk away, "Thanks for the info ladies!"


    ''This man is so strange,'' the white-haired male stated as the shouts from the females'' land on deaf ears.


    When they arrived at Han Mo''s place, he stood before the cabin door and waited with the brunette. The door opened to reveal a redheaded male. He was tall and had golden eyes like the male beside him.


    "Have you finally won his heart?" The tall man stated with a frown and crossed arms.


    "Oh let me ask," the brunette turned to him, "Ah Shen, have I won your heart?"


    "No," he said with no hesitation and the redhead barked out a laugh.


    "An idiot like our brother," the redhead poked the brunette''s forehead, "Hope you don''t end up dead like him."


    "Hey, I am smarter than him," the brunette pushed his brother to the side and waited for Shen to enter, before stepping into the cabin, "Besides, he is actually still alive."


    "He is?" Zhang Xu Ling questioned as he brought Shen to the bookshelves, "He is not dead?"


    "Nope," Zhang Han Mo showed Shen where the books were and went to grab some bags, "He actually looks happy with the Ghost King."


    "Happy¡­" the redhead frowned thinking to himself for a moment, "Probably because he gets to be pampered like a king," he said sarcastically.


    "Maybe," the brunette nodded and hummed, "Remember when he talked about soulmates when we were younger?"


    "What of it?" Zhang Xu Ling pursed his lips.


    "Ah, it is nothing, just a memory," the brunette offered a smile and continued grabbing the copies.


    "What are you doing?" The tall man walked over to them, "Why are you grabbing his stuff?"


    "He wants it," the brunette shrugged, "Ghost King wants it by sundown."


    Gold eyes looked at the bags being filled.


    "There are too many books for just the two of you to carry," he said, "I shall accompany you two."


    "I don''t think you should, Ah Ling," the brunette stood up with Shen, "remember what happened last time you came with me to bring Ah Shen his request?"


    The red head felt his face fell.


    "Exactly," the brunette patted his brother''s shoulder, "Until Ah Yun is ready for you to return, you cannot come."


    "Why does it matter?" He huffed, "You need help so as a good brother, I should assist you."


    "As a good brother, you should stay to not give me more trouble than I can handle," the brunette grinned and his brother rubbed his face.


    He watched as Han Mo held six bags while the white-haired boy held one. He saw Shen trying to hold more, but his idiot brother shook his head and carried on down the hill.


    "An idiot," he shook his red hair, "Master Pang would be disappointed knowing his two disciples are idiots."


    ==


    Hien, Chu, and Yun were currently in the kitchen doing their best to cook a decent dinner. Chu never had any skills in cooking and relied too heavily on Shen, that she felt her face sweating over the flames. The meat sizzled as the oil popped, scaring her as she pulled her body away.


    "Can''t we switch Ah Hien," she cried out as a few oil pops and splattered onto her arm.


    "But we''ve already started sister," the brunette was in her own dilemma.


    Making soup looked easy, but she wasn''t sure if she put enough spices, so she kept adding in the pepper and basil. Brows furrowed as she wiped the back of her hand across her forehead. Her purple eyes looked over at her older sister and saw the silver haired female was twisting the dough.


    "Sister Yun," Hien spoke up, "Can you taste this? See if it needs anything else?"


    "Be confident in yourself sisters," She did not turn to look at them, "Our king will not be upset."


    "Just, just in case-" the brunette tried, but her twin shouted out.


    "Oh no! I think it''s burning!" The blue haired female cried trying to pick up all the meat in the pan.


    "Ah Chu, use this," Hien reached for another kitchen tool and tried to help the blue haired female.


    Yun just smiled as she finished twisting the dough. Layering them on the tray, she turned to see both her sisters frazzled by the boiling pot and the popping oil. Shaking her head, she proceeded to save whatever they could for their dinner.


    ==


    Zhang Han Mo and Shen arrived back into the palace with a sigh. His arms were cramping up, but he was not going to let the white-haired boy hold more than a bag. Why? Because he was a gentleman! Glancing over to see the young man, purple eyes were looking to see they arrived just at sundown.


    "Were you worried your king would get upset?" The brunette questioned with a grin.


    "I am worried I do not have time to make dinner," Shen replied beginning to walk toward his kitchen.


    "Of course," he grabbed the thin arm, "Tell me, what is his favorite dish?"


    Purple eyes stared at him for a moment before those lips thinned.


    "Why do you wish to know?" Shen questioned with his brows dipped.


    "Just curious," his golden eyes blinked innocently into purple ones, "Unless you don''t know?"


    "My king enjoys a dish with strips of fatty beef with white wined rice," Shen said after a moment as his eyes looked down in remembrance, "He prefers the taste of lemon instead of pepper and enjoys ginger tea to calm his stomach. He enjoys any type of sweets."


    The brunette watched as the soft smile played on the attractive man''s face and he found himself reaching forward. Fingers touched soft cheek, causing purple eyes to look at him with furrowed brows.


    "I wonder, Ah Shen," he leaned closer, "If you only smile when you speak of your king," mouth close to lips, "Or do I also have the honor of that smile too?"

 Chapter 26 - He Should Not Touch What Is Mine

    The brunette paused before the white-haired boy who had not pushed him away. Squeezing the arm he was holding, he moved in closer, tilting his head slightly to-


    A strong hand pushed him back roughly, causing him to stumble back. Gold eyes blinked before noticing the Ghost King had pulled Shen behind him. Silver eyes were glaring at him with a dark fire and Zhang Han Mo let out a nervous laugh.


    "Ghost King," he bowed and cleared his throat, "We''ve brought you the rest of the books."


    "Then you can leave," his cold tone washed over his skin, causing them to prickle up.


    "Wang Li," the blonde spoke up, "It is getting dark. Why don''t he spend the night in one of the spare rooms?"


    "You wish for him to stay?" Those silver eyes did not leave golden ones and the brunette found himself gulping down the anxiety.


    "Well¡­" green eyes glanced at him with pity.


    The sound of footsteps arrived and the silver haired female greeted them.


    "My king," she started, "My sisters and I have prepared dinner, since Ah Shen was away."


    "You made dinner?" Shen looked at the female with wide eyed blinking.


    Yun''s straight face twitched at her lips and she covered them and nodded. The Ghost King nodded and followed the female, standing closely to the white-haired male with his hand wrapped around his wife''s.


    "Brother, come join us. You must be hungry," the blonde called out and the brunette let out a deep sigh of relief.


    When they all settled down, the Ghost King ordered Shen to sit beside him. Ying Yue watched the slight hesitation in the young man, before he settled between Yun and the king. Sipping on his tea, his green eyes watched golden eyes stare with lips frowning.


    ''Ah, I know how that feels,'' he glanced at the king, ''To wish to be in his heart.''


    When Chu and Hien brought the meal, the smell was¡­ different. He could tell they were nervous from their glances at their king. Meat¡­ or what looked like it, was charred and burnt. Tofu soup that looked red as blood with spots of white floating. The only appetizing dish was the toasted twisted bread, lightly glazed with sugar. Ying Yue knew his stomach was going to hurt from eating tonight.


    ''Note to self,'' he sighed, ''Never let Shen go anywhere for a long period of time.''


    Green eyes watched Wang Li reaching with his chopstick for the meat, placing a few into his bowl before grabbing some for himself. He watched as the king bit into the burnt meat, face not giving away any emotions as he chewed. Blinking at the phenomenon, he wondered how the Ghost King was able to eat it casually, like eating the best cooked meat.


    Then the soup was passed around and all eyes watched as the king sipped it. Still nothing to give away how the silver eyed male felt. The twisted bread was broken and Ying Yue could tell it was hard as a rock. The inside was not fluffy and looked like the color of white chalk. The blonde felt his stomach turning as his face turned slightly green. However, none of it bothered the king and he looked at the females.


    "Thank you for preparing our meal tonight," he stated.


    Just like that, the dam broke loose, and they began eating. All with different emotions passing through their faces, but each one ate enough to satisfy the king, especially the brunette male. Wang Li had forced him to drink more of the fiery soup and Ying Yue had to step in after the fifth bowl.


    "Ah Li," he placed his hand over his husband''s, "He had eaten enough," he said gently and glanced into silver eyes, "And, uh¡­" he let out a nervous laugh, "My stomach is hurting," he said quietly.


    It was the truth. His stomach was crying from all the spiciness in that soup and the over cooked food. Rubbing his hand over it, he could hear the gurgling and curling of his organ.


    "Ah Chu," the king spoke up, "Show Zhang Han Mo his room and Ah Shen¡­"


    "Yes, my king," the white-haired male already knew what his king wanted.


    Wang Li stood up and pulled his wife with him. Taking him to their room, he watched the blonde undress out of his outer wear before lying on the bed curled into his stomach. He took off his own outer robe and sat beside his wife. Wiping the sweat from the groaning man, he pushed the blonde onto his back and uncurled him. Hand placed on the flat stomach, he pushed some of his energy into the green-eyed beauty. Tensed muscles relaxed against his palm, as his fingers massaged.


    "Did you really enjoy the meal tonight?" Green eyes looked at him.


    "I appreciate their work," he replied with his silver eyes on his wife''s.


    "I see," a smile formed on the blonde, "I shall remember that, my king."


    He heard the knock on the door and welcomed the visitor. Shen slid the door opened and placed the tray of tea on the table. He bowed and headed to the door but paused when his king spoke up.


    "Ah Shen," Wang Li said, "Thank you."


    The white-haired boy nodded and slid the door closed, but a small smile was on his lips.


    Happy that his king acknowledged him.


    Ying Yue sat up on the bed and took the offered teacup from his lover. He drank it slowly as he watched Wang Li closed his eyes. The raven-haired man sipped his drink and licked his lips to capture the taste of ginger tea. He slid his moonlit eyes slowly to see green eyes staring at him, gripping the teacup in soft hands. Wang Li pulled the cup away from the blonde''s hands and placed them on the side table.


    "My wife," he smirked leaning toward the beautiful blonde, "You are always kind to your brother."


    "Well¡­ I¡­ you were being mean to him."


    Ying Yue mumbled staring at those wet lips. He could feel the breath fanning his face as his husband moved closer. When Wang Li moved his lips, he could feel the light touches against his own.


    "He should not touch what is mine."


    "Hm? Ah Shen is yours?"


    Fingers trailed down his neck to move down his chest, dragging his robe open. His breath hitched when he felt the palms touch his skin. Lips touched his and he moaned into it, moving his hands to his lover''s sash. Wang Li parted their kiss and Ying Yue wanted to follow, but he stopped when he saw his king untying his blue robe. Ying Yue took off his own clothing and was left with his bottoms, but Wang Li helped him out of it.


    The blonde was naked and his legs were closed, shy and flushing.


    ''So vulnerable, so shy, a feast ready to be devoured.''


    Wang Li heard the rumble in his mind and his eyes darkened. Not bothering to fold his robes, he undressed until he to was naked. He crawled onto the bed to hover over his lover and heard the hitched of the blonde''s breath.


    "My dear wife," Wang Li breathed out running his hand up and down smooth thigh.


    "Y¡­ yes?" Ying Yue bit his bottom lip as his heart raced with anticipation.


    Palms slid to his inner thigh, parting his legs as they moved higher to his hardness.


    "You look quite delicious," the silver eyes man kissed and suckled his way down and spread his wife''s legs, "So perfect for me."


    Ying Yue flushed deeply and even more so when all Wang Li did was stare at his manhood and entrance for a while. Feeling embarrassed and slightly humiliated, he reached down to cover himself. This earned a deep low chuckle that made his penis twitch. Long tongue left wet strips up his inner thighs and nibbled at the skin connecting pelvis to thigh.


    Ying Yue gasped and a hand flew to clutch the bedsheet below him. Wang Li removed his other hand that was covering his private to place on the back of his black hair. Then¡­ then Ying Yue just felt hot wet mouth capturing his every being. His back arched with need and he did not realize he was thrusting into his lover''s mouth. His fingers were gripping long black hair pushing him closer. Fingers groped his ball sacks and squeezed it to life.


    "My husband," Ying Yue moaned as he felt the incoming wave of pleasure high, "I-"


    He was unable to finish his sentence because Wang Li had sucked hard, calling forth his release and he did. Shooting into his husband''s mouth as his hips twerked up and twitched. Panting loudly, his arms laid outstretched as he felt laxed. Wang Li pulled off and licked his lips as he watched the afterglow of the blonde in his bed.


    "Are you alright?"


    Ying Yue did not reply for a moment, before he quickly pulled his lover to him. His mouth was desperate and needy, wanting to see his husband in pleasure as well. He reached for the thick cock pressed against him as they laid on their sides. He pulled back to stroke the shaft hard and fast, receiving harsh panting and groans from his king. His green eyes, half lidded and dilated, watched the pleasure fill his lover''s beautiful face. The light brush of redness and the grip on his ass, Ying Yue rubbed the tip and moved faster.


    When Wang Li came, he came so beautifully like an art piece one could never get right. He was pulled up against hot chest as his husband nuzzled his neck and breathed him in.


    "How I missed you."


    "I am here," he whispered and Wang Li smiled, transferring his feelings through the kiss.


    "Yes, you are."


    ''Forever. Mine.''

 Chapter 27 - I Am The Kings Wife

    The brunette groaned as the sunlight hit his face. Eyes heavy with lack of sleep, he felt his butt hurting and winced as he sat up. He liked spicy food, but not like that!


    ''Ugh,'' he rubbed his eyes and stood up slowly, ''Time to go before the Ghost King tries to kill me.''


    Grabbing his green tunic, he threw it on and tightened it with loud yawns.


    "Ah Mo," a voice spoke up and he turned to the door to see a head of platinum blonde and green eyes.


    "Ah, brother," he smiled, "If it weren''t for you, I''m sure I''d die."


    "That is true," a grin spread across the young face, "I wanted to ask you something before you leave."


    "Hm? What is it?" The brunette looked at him curiously.


    "You''ve known Sheng Shui all his life, right?" The blonde asked and Zhang Han Mo frowned.


    "Why do you talk about yourself like it isn''t you?" His golden eyes stared intently into emerald ones.


    "Just answer the questions," his brother pleaded.


    "Yes. We grew up as brothers, had the same master," the brunette stated crossing his arms, "but Sheng Shui had a different purpose than big brother and I did."


    "What purpose?" Ying Yue pinched his brows.


    "He was chosen to be Heaven''s Conduit," he watched the blonde closely, "Chosen to manipulate the Ghost King and if needed," he dropped his voice lowly, "¡­ to kill him."


    He saw the blood drain from his brother''s face, the shaking of his body, and the quiver of his lips. His golden eyes watched the pursing of those lips and the shake of light blonde hair. He saw those shaky hands fisted and sharp green eyes turned to him.


    "I will never," Ying Yue stated softly, "I couldn''t."


    "It is Heaven''s task set upon him to complete," the brunette sighed and eyed his brother, "Since you returned, does that not mean you will finish your job?"


    "No!" The blonde said sternly, "Your brother left Wang Li," his voice softened, "... because of what he was tasked with. He loves him and couldn''t kill him. That''s why he left and¡­" he shook his head again looking away, "I am not him."


    Han Mo felt his eyes widened feeling a sense of nostalgia hit him.


    He remembered his brother crying for so many days when he left the Ghost King. He remembered the faraway look on those eyes. He remembered how broken the blonde was.


    "I love him," his brother had said, "How can I stay when I know? How can Heaven punish us like this?"


    Golden eyes stared at the blonde and reached for his shoulder.


    "Who are you?" He searched those green eyes.


    "I am the king''s wife," a smile, just like his brother''s, "I am Ying Yue."


    ''Ying Yue!'' His mind shouted at him, and it sounded just like his eldest brother, ''It can''t be¡­ how?''


    "You''ve returned," he whispered and the blonde tilted his head confused, "What do you remember?"


    "Huh? I don''t know what you mean," a frown graced his lips, "but your brother seems to like making me relive his memories."


    The brunette grabbed the blonde''s wrist and felt the flow of his brother''s energy. He found himself laughing as he pulled the blonde into a hug. This was the best news they had heard in centuries! He had to tell his brother!


    "Where is the Ghost King?" He questioned pulling back.


    "He needed to leave for a moment," green eyes looked at him, "Why are you so happy?"


    "Ah Yue," Han Mo placed his hands on the blonde''s shoulder, "Those dreams are Sheng Shui''s but they are also yours."


    Ying Yue just stared at the brunette incredulously.


    "I need to leave now," Han Mo continued, "When I return, brother, we shall leave together. We had been waiting for a long time."


    Ying Yue found his mouth opening and closing at such a strange event. The brunette had taken off and he was here, in the room even more confused than when he entered.


    "What a weirdo!" He shook his head, "He made no sense! No wonder Sheng Shui was such a shameless person." He sat on the bed and thought about what the brunette told him.


    "How are those dreams mine too?" He leaned forward and placed his temple against a fist, "I definitely have not gone¡­ all the way with Wang Li," he flushed remembering his dream last night, "Or have we ever had a fight like¡­" he found himself sad remembering the look on the Ghost King''s face in the dream ¨C cold, distant, blank.


    "Eh, I am getting a headache," he sighed and stood up, "Why must everything be so complicated."


    "Sir Yue."


    He glanced at the door to see purple eyes looking around the room, before settling onto him again. He blinked innocently at the silver haired boy, before a thought settled in his mind. Eyes widening, he quickly shook his head and walked forward.


    "Ah Shen. This is not what it looked like! I¡­ I just wanted to ask Ah Mo a question. That is all! Nothing happened."


    Purple eyes blinked at him and nodded.


    "I see."


    "¡­"


    "You are brothers. I would not have assumed what you think."


    Ying Yue deflated inwardly. He was Sheng Shui who was brother to Han Mo and another. He wanted to smack his head for forgetting that detail because now he looked even worse. Shaking it off, he offered a smile to the young man.


    "What are you doing here, Ah Shen?"


    "Sending him off with a meal," Shen responded holding the meal container.


    "Oh."


    The blonde felt bad for rushing the brunette off.


    "I am sure he would have been happy, Ah Shen."


    He saw the man nod and was about to leave, but Ying Yue was a curious cat.


    "May I¡­ ask a question, Ah Shen?"


    "You may ask any questions, Sir Yue."


    The blonde smiled and he led the cook to his favorite place. They sat under the plum tree where blossoms were slowly littering the grounds. He saw the relax of shoulders and softening of the boy''s face.


    "Have you been to this area?" Ying Yue questioned and the silver haired male nodded.


    "My king comes here often to gather his thoughts. Somedays he would play chess, other times to rest, but many days he would sit alone quietly."


    "Do you join him?"


    "Only when he asks."


    "Has he?"


    "Yes."


    Ying Yue waited for the man to expand his comment, but nothing else came. The boy looked to be lost in thought and the blonde tilted his head, wondering what was going through his mind. He had burn scars along the right cheek and jawline. The young man''s fingers were calloused and the skin on the thin skin had memories of burns.


    He smiled and placed a hand on the cook''s shoulder.


    "Tell me, Ah Shen, how did you meet Wang Li?"

 Chapter 28 - Shens Past- You Are A Part Of My Family Now

    Shen looked away from him and to the distance, before he told his story.


    [Fire. It was everywhere around him, hot and loud. He called out to anybody, but no one could hear the poor boy, no one cared. He forced his legs to run out as his arms covered his face. His legs and arms were burning, like his skin was melting, but he ignored the pain. He ran and ran until he was away from the hot flames. The small shack he was in was covered in fire. His mother¡­ the only one who cared for him was now gone. He was alone in the cold of the night sky.


    Crying and crying, he wrapped his arms around his knees, stuffing his face against his arms. He didn''t know how long he sat there, but he was starving and cold. There was nothing left in the fire, no bones of his mother, no memories of their times in the house. Everything was gone.


    He curled over his stomach, feeling the gnawing and clenching of his insides.


    ''Walk,'' he told himself, ''Survive. I have too. Mother wouldn''t want me to die¡­ mother-''


    He stopped himself from thinking any further. His mother with her dark hair and soft eyes, smiling at him as he slept were the last memory he had of her. Ignoring the tears threatening to slip, he pushed all the emotions of anger, sadness, confusion, and loneliness to the back of his mind. He needed to get food¡­ but he was no thief. He will ask the villagers, he will beg if he needed to, he had to eat.


    His bare feet were bleeding and his body was weak. When he got to the village, he could barely beg for food or help. His mouth barely moved and his head was hurting. Was this what it was like to die? He fell against a wall somewhere and sat there for some time. It felt so warm to him, like an embrace from the sun instead of hot like the flames or the cold of the night sky. He closed his eyes and wondered if his mother would be waiting for him. Had he done good in his life? Would his soul go to the reincarnation wheel?


    Water, his thought flooded him and he swallowed. The cool liquid slid down his throat and he drank and drank and drank. Blinking slowly, he saw someone before him with dark hair and soft eyes.


    ''Mother?'' He wondered as the face neared him.


    Fingers ran through his dirtied silver hair and he tried to move away from them, embarrassed at his appearance, but the person did not deter away. Instead, those fingers wiped the wetness from his cheeks and he realized he had cried.


    "What is your name?" The person questioned and his voice was so warm, just like his mother''s.


    "Fu Shen," he answered with a scratchy harsh voice and he closed his mouth quickly. He sounded ugly. He was ugly.


    "Come, Ah Shen," a hand was offered to him and he took that hand, so strong and large compared to his.


    Since that day, Shen was saved. He could never repay the king for his kindness in caring for a poor, weak, ugly person like him. The Ghost King asked nothing from him, but Shen knew he must do something, something to repay the kindness he received. The white-haired boy decided to make the meal his mother loved. Though they were poor and had very little, his mother would rarely splurged on pricier meat and rice.


    The chef and cooks in the kitchen were wary of him, a poor boy their king took pity on. They did not stop him from cooking or assisted him, but that was okay with Shen. He didn''t need help. Plating the meal, he placed it on a tray and carried it to the Ghost King. He could see his king, his savior, was speaking with some of the servants, maybe to have them prepare for an arrival? Clutching the handles, he walked slowly and with purpose toward his king, but a servant- one that looked down on him since his stay- saw him.


    The servant ran into him and sneered when the tray in his hands wobbled and fell. Broken bowls sounded in the air and he stood frozen in shock. The meal he had worked so hard to make¡­ the meal his mother loved¡­ the meal for his savior was now¡­ it was now¡­


    "Ah Shen," the soft voice of his king sounded before him, "Are you alright?"


    He did his best to hold himself together. The Ghost King was strong, presentable, and does not let anything ruin his face¡­ so he will do the same! He gritted his teeth and bowed.


    "I apologize for the mess, my king. I will accept any punishment you wish to give me."


    He fisted his hands on his knees and forced the tears away, forced the anger, the hurt, the pain to leave his body. His king did not need an emotional mess like him. His body stilled when he felt fingers running through his white hair.


    "Did you make this for me, Ah Shen?" His savior questioned and he nodded.


    He kept his face lowered in the bow and heard the king called out to his servants to clean the mess.


    "Come, Ah Shen," he saw the hand, that large strong hand, held out to him again like before¡­ like the first time, "Make it for me again."


    Like before, he took the offered hand.


    Back in the kitchen, he worked even harder to make it perfect. Shen plated the meal once more and placed it on the tray. Heading out of the kitchen, he saw Madame Yun and the Ghost King seated at the table. He glanced at his tray and only saw he had one bowl, since he didn''t know the elder was going to join as well. Quickly adding another bowl, he was about to walk out, but one of the kitchen servants tapped him on the shoulder.


    "Tea first, our king enjoys ginger in his tea and Madame Yun prefer to have chili oil with her meals."


    "Thank you," he bowed gratefully and grabbed a sauce plate to add the chili oil.


    "I''ll bring the tea out and you can serve them, child," the elder servant smiled at him and Shen bowed once more. The white-haired boy followed the gray haired elder to the table. She greeted them with a bow and placed the tea tray down before leaving. Shen bowed as well and placed the meal tray down. Serving them each their tea, he placed the bowls before them, chili oil beside Madame Yun''s bowl, and the meat and rice at arm''s reach.


    "You made this yourself?" The head of the house questioned.


    "Yes, Madame," he bowed.


    "This looks delicious, Ah Shen," the king smiled and the white-haired boy saved that smile to remember.


    "Thank you, my king."


    He watched as the female scooped the rice into her bowl and proceeded to pick a beef off the plate. She took a bite and hummed, before eating a bit of the rice.


    "Auntie enjoys it," the Ghost King stated and proceeded to do the same, but his reaction was different than the females. Shen watched as silver eyes widened before glancing at the meal plated before him again. He watched as his king ate like he had not tasted this specific meal before, like it was an extravagant high-quality meal.


    "Slow down, nephew, before you-" Yun shook her head as the raven-haired king coughed from eating too fast. She slapped his back with an amused smile as her nephew wiped his mouth with the handkerchief.


    "My apologies. This meal¡­ it is delicious Ah Shen. I thank you."


    "Truly?" Shen said without thinking before he bowed, "Thank you my king. Those are kind words."


    "I am glad you are here," the king stated and he looked at his savior with widened eyes, "No one should give you trouble anymore, isn''t that right?"


    Shen furrowed his brows for a moment before he saw the one who had been troubling him fall to his knees before them, head pressed to the ground.


    "Yes. I apologize my king, Madame Yun, and Fu Shen. Please forgive me."


    "What punishment would you like to give to him?" The Ghost King asked the white-haired boy.


    Shen was still in shocked that his king even knew about what that man was doing. Was he not busy with his work as king? Did someone finally told his savior of the maltreatment he received at the hands of the man? Calming himself down, he cleared off his face and stared at the man before him.


    "My king," he turned to the man in red, "Whatever you wish, I will agree with."


    "Death," The Ghost King said with no hesitation and Shen did not flinched.


    "As you wish, my king."


    The man cried out and begged for forgiveness once more, but Wang Li was not listening.


    "You beg forgiveness when you gave none to one of my own. You wish for penitence instead of death, yet you''ve already brought shame to not just your fellow people, but to me. I''ve waited to see if you would change your ways, yet you''ve only became more bolden. That boldness will carry on to others and more will join in wishing harm upon what is mine. Do you understand why death is your only option?"


    The man was crying and nodding his head, but Shen only can hear what his king stated. He belonged to the Ghost King. His king knew of the treatment against him and had enough.


    "Ma¡­ Madame-"


    "You wish for me to save you?" The female sipped her tea coolly as if what was transpiring was like watching the blossoms fall off the plum trees, "The Ghost King has spoken. The punishment will be dealt, and all will know where they stand."


    Shen followed them to the courtyard where the punishment will be taken. All the servants were watching with agreement, fear, and ambivalence. The man kneeled and faced the sky, praying for the Heavens to forgive his behaviors, his sins, his hate. Shen watched as the Ghost King stood before the man and stabbed him through the heart. Coughs of blood splattered onto the king''s shoulder and the man closed his eyes, welcoming death.


    "Thank you, my king," the man uttered before his heart stopped.


    Pulling the sword out, the dead man fell bleeding on the floor. As the servants bowed lowly and returned to their work quietly, he saw his king walk toward him and paused. He saw blood on his savior''s cheek, and he pressed a tissue to wipe the stain away. Fingers wrapped around his wrist and he saw the smile on his king''s lips.


    "No one will dare hurt you again, Ah Shen. You are a part of my family now."


    His nose was itching and his eyes were watery from belonging once more. He felt the chest of his king''s, warm against his skin and that made him let go. He cried and cried for longer than he had wished, but his king continued to stroke his white hair soothingly. Closing his eyes, he vowed to care for his king, to have his king in his heart, to do everything his savior asked of him.


    ''Just like mother.'']


    "Since then, Sir Yue, I owe my king my life," Shen finished running his fingers over the red ribbon wrapped around his neck.

 Chapter 29 - Tell Me What You Want

    Ying Yue felt his tears welled up in his eyes and wrapped his arms around the young man.


    "I am sorry you had to go through that, Ah Shen."


    "If I did not live through that, I would have never met my king."


    Ying Yue pulled away and wiped his eyes. He let out a soft laugh and sighed with a smile.


    "You truly love him, don''t you Ah Shen."


    "He is my king, Sir Yue."


    He saw the pink dusting the tip of Shen''s ears and he smiled. Wang Li was so loved and he was envious and pleased with that knowledge. There was a light breeze that danced across their skin and played with their hair. Ying Yue''s smile softened as he observed the young man before him.


    "Do you care for my brother?"


    "Han Mo is strange."


    "Hm," Ying Yue agreed before his green eyes softened, "He cares for you."


    "I know."


    His eyes widened slightly, before the blonde laughed shaking his head.


    ''Are you playing with his heart then, Ah Shen? Are you playing games like your king?'' Ying Yue couldn''t help the laughter that escaped his lips. Shaking his head when purple eyes stared at him, he sighed relaxed.


    "Wang Li told me, you belong to him, Ah Shen."


    He saw a curl of small lips and Ying Yue found himself grinning.


    "I thank you for speaking with me, Ah Shen. I will not take any more of your time."


    The white-haired boy said his goodbyes and left, leaving Ying Yue to his thoughts.


    ''We all love him, don''t we, Ah Shen.''


    He looked up to the sun shining brightly above him, before reaching out to catching a falling petal.


    "One day, Ah Li. You will love me like your first wife. I just know it," Ying Yue said determined as his aim was for the heart of his king.


    ==


    (Netherworld)


    He was in the shadows, where he was born and raised. The sound of his brethren echoed in the chamber, in their cages. Rattling of chains, grinding of stones, biting breath were heard in the area. Eyes closed, he hummed with a smile as he walked lazily down one side to the other.


    "Pathetic," a demon as large as 10 feet growled out, "You are no brother of mine."


    "To give us up for him," another spoke up, skinny as a twig, "and he does not even care for you!"


    "Not only that," a female demon with purple skin spoke up, "to give up his throne for one of Heaven''s chosen. How despicable."


    "Instead of killing the boy, he fell in love," a hackle from another demon sounded, "How very sad! He will never love you!"


    "That is where you are all wrong," the raven-haired male sighed turning to their cages, "Wang Li loves me. He does not lock me up; I am free to roam," he stepped closer with his red eyes staring into theirs, "Ghosts roam the village, is that not enough?"


    "You know it isn''t!" The twigged demon shouted, "Us demons have no escape! We are locked up like animals! You! You were supposed to get rid of him for us!"


    "Ah," he nodded tilting his head, "Well, I can ask for you," he grinned, "but if he kills you, don''t blame me."


    The demons stopped chattering and moved further back into their cages. His red eyes turned to see the beautiful man in red. Red eyes shining, he bounced over to the silver eyed king.


    "My king," he greeted, "Hm, you look a little tired today," he said wrapping his arms around the other.


    Silver eyes glanced at him and his red eyes saw the breaking of the scar under the left eye. Reaching his hand out, he touched it to feel the pressure against the skin. He searched the king''s face and wondered how this came to be. It had happened once, a very long time ago. Why was it happening now?


    "Ah Li," he started, but the king shook his head and placed his palm over the amulet.


    Walking over to the other side of the tablet, he stood before his king and watched. He could see the sweat beating across his hairline, the tightening of those silver eyes, the pursing of thin lips.


    "Ye Wu," Wang Li spoke up still concentrating on his task, "Stop watching me."


    Red eyes blinked before laughter escaped his lips. Raven hair thrown back as he grinned, placing his hand on his cheek as he leaned forward on the table.


    "You didn''t mind before," he mentioned looking at the amulet''s glow, before returning to look at the beautiful face.


    "Ye Wu," the king''s voice was cold, but with a small warmth to it, like a sigh and it made the demon purr inwardly.


    "Alright, Ah Li," his red eyes then returned to the amulet, watching as the glow pulsed and twisted.


    ''What would this amulet do, Ah Li? Why are you bothering with it?'' He questioned, ''Why is your mark breaking once more?''


    Lost in his thoughts, he saw the king''s hand pull away and he glanced up. Wang Li was pressing his palm against his left eye, letting out a low hiss as he turned. Quickly moving to his side, Ye Wu watched as the king stumbled for a moment, leaned on his hold. There was a brief pause, a tension along the man in red''s shoulders, before Ye Wu watched him head out.


    "Ah Li," he called out, "Take care of yourself."


    The Ghost King paused, glanced at him and walked through the portal.


    ''Wang Li,'' he frowned fisting his hands, ''Has he returned to you?''


    ==


    (At the Palace)


    Ying Yue felt his body shiver from the fingers sliding down his spine before running down his ass.


    "Do you like this?" Deep baritone voice asked as he thrusted long and deep into him.


    "Ah, y¡­ yes," he nodded, face pressed against the bed and ass in the air.


    "Tell me what you want, Ah Yue," the raven-haired male pressed all the way in and rolled his hips.


    "Mmph," he sounded squeezing the sheets, "Move more," he said, "Harder, please."


    Once the blonde finished his words, he felt as if the world was spinning with the speed Wang Li went. Every move felt like a gut punched soaked with unyielding pleasure. He whimpered when his husband pressed against his prostate, making the man hit it over and over.


    "Ah! Ah Li, Li," he repeated over and over as his eyes began rolling back.


    Mouth opened and drools slipping, he moved his own hips against his lover''s. He could hear the moan and panting from Wang Li, and he tightened his entire body.


    "Ah Yue," his husband moaned out pumping into him faster.


    He came with a shiver as he felt the hard shaft release inside him, claiming him. Closing his eyes, he felt kisses on his cheek, and he hummed content.


    "Ah Yue," his lover''s voice whispered in his ear, "You are hard."


    Opening green eyes, he glanced down and felt his face flushed. When he felt Wang Li''s hardness against the curve of his bottom, he felt his ears burning.

 Chapter 30 - He Will Remember Soon

    "You were moving a lot," a nibble on his ear, "Had a good dream?"


    He nodded and heard soft laughter against his neck. A light lick against his nape made his body shiver. Hand moved down his bare stomach and wrapped around his member. He felt kisses down his neck and shoulder, before breathing against his cheek.


    "Ah Li," he moaned moving his hips upwards into the fists and backwards, rubbing against the hardness of his lover''s.


    "Part your legs," husky voice whispered and he did as he was told.


    He felt Wang Li''s penis pressed underneath his and the king closed his legs once more, leaving his thighs to straddle his husband''s hard cock. Looking at it, Ying Yue felt even more aroused from seeing their private together. The Ghost King thrust against him as his fist made sure they were connected. Panting out from the movement, the blonde bit his lip when he felt fingers from the other hand rubbed and tweaked his nipple.


    "Ah Li," he lifted his arm behind him and pressed his lips on the king''s.


    Wang Li tightened his hold and thrust harder, making them pant into one another''s mouth until they came. The grip on his husband''s hair tightened as Ying Yue felt the onslaught of pleasure at the back of his eyes. A hard pinch to his nipple and a bite to his lip had the blonde coming in hot shivers. Panting out and moaning, Ying Yue reached down to wrap his palm around his lover''s large hand, still fisting him dry.


    "Please," he whispered and Wang Li came, nibbling at the tip of his ear with strong balls smacking his ass.


    Letting out a pleased laugh, he kissed the king once more before reaching for the handkerchief- white because he was too embarrassed to see the aftermath on it.


    He wiped the cum from his stomach and his husband''s hand, which the man always looked at him amused, before wiping their cocks. When he was done, he cuddled up to the king and sighed. The rubbing against his back was lulling him back to sleep, but there was a knock on their door.


    "I apologize for interrupting," Yun spoke quietly, "When you are ready, I shall be in my room, my king."


    As the footsteps walked away, he looked at Wang Li.


    "You are still tired," his husband said, "Go back to sleep."


    "No," the blonde shook his head and smiled, "I should get up and meditate," he sat up with excitement, "I feel close to opening up my channels fully."


    "Already?" Wang Li questioned softly.


    "Yes!" Ying Yue laughed happily as he got dressed, "I''ll join Snow after meditating, but I shall join you soon. Isn''t that great?"


    The king watched how happy his wife was and he smiled back, with only the tail end of blonde hair and a kiss from Ying Yue left. Closing his eyes, he let out a sigh and got up as well. Dressing and leaving the room, he walked over to Yun''s quarter on the other side of her sisters.


    "My king," she greeted and stepped to the side as he entered, "Come, sit."


    She sat with her king and poured him a cup of medicinal tea. Her purple eyes took in the darkness under those silver eyes, the paleness, and the breaking of the scar. She narrowed her eyes as she placed her cup down.


    "You are pushing it," she stated with a frown, "You know the consequence."


    "I know," his eyes looked to hers, slowly and lazily, "I am not a child anymore."


    "And yet you act like one still," she watched him let out a soft laugh before grabbing onto his left eye.


    Purple eyes widening, she went to her table to grab the ointment. Eyes searching his face, Wang Li slowly pulled his hand away with a wince. She grabbed his chin and saw the crease of pale skin as blood began to pool at the surface. Quickly dabbing her fingers with the ointment, she pressed it onto the wound. She saw the wince from the man but ignored it in favor of healing the scar.


    "What have you been doing?" She reprimanded upset, "Tell me."


    "I will be with him, auntie," he said softly.


    "Stupid boy," she huffed pressing her fingers a little harder to see him wince, "Why must you defy the Heavens?! You already know the results, and yet you still push. Stubborn," she mumbled.


    "He will remember soon," he closed his eyes, "When he does, I want to be ready."


    "Ready for what?" She pulled her fingers back and covered the medicine, "What are you doing to yourself, nephew?" She looked at him hard, "The weather is slowly changing."


    "Hm," he sounded, "Thank you auntie," he stood up and headed to the door, "I will be in the study."


    She watched the Ghost King leave and closed her door. Hands fisting, she shut her eyes and took a few deep breaths. The king was still young, stubborn, even after all these years.


    "When will you learn little nephew," she sighed, "The will of Heavens is strong, even you cannot go against it."


    An image of a screaming Wang Li with blood dripping from his face would always be stuck to the back of her mind, along with the excruciating pain she felt. Running her fingers over the wrap around her neck, she stood up to put the ointment back in her place.


    "Wang Li," she whispered, "When will you be at peace?"


    ==


    Ying Yue felt exhilarated from his practice. The sword in his hands had became lighter or he had become stronger, maybe both. His footwork was not as sloppy as before from all the times he had practiced and watched his lover. Letting out a sigh, he wiped his sleeve on his face to catch the sweat dripping down. Looking over, he saw Chu and Hien slow their playing of their bamboo flute.


    ''Maybe having them play their music helped me get stronger,'' he thought with a smile, walking over to the girls.


    "Ah Chu, Ah Hien," he grinned, "Do you all know how to play a musical instrument?"


    "Ah Shen does as well," the brunette smiled, "He has not played in a long time."


    "Oh?" Ying Yue nodded in interest, "I will ask him what he plays."


    "We will be having a celebration in the village," Chu looked at her sister, "In four nights?"


    "Yes," Hien nodded, "We play every year. They enjoy it very much."


    "Really?!" The blonde was excited, "Does Ah Li also play?"


    Both females looked at one another with worry and sadness, making Ying Yue''s excitement dropped.


    "He did," the brunette offered an apologetic smile, "It had been before."


    ''Before Sheng Shui left¡­'' his mind provided and he felt his heart get cold.


    Shaking his head, he smiled at the twins.


    "Is there any unused instrument?" He asked and the sisters blinked their purple eyes at him confused.


    "Why?" Chu asked bluntly, "You want to play?"


    He nodded and they looked at one another again. Green eyes watched as facial twitches were seen on both female''s faces.


    "There are none," the blue haired female provided, "My apologies, Sir Yue."


    The blonde sighed and waved his hand, gesturing that it was okay. Bidding them farewell, he headed to the library. Maybe meditating will ease his mind from what he was just told. He saw the door open to the study and glanced inside. His green eyes widened before they softened, taking in the sleeping figure. Walking in quietly, he walked around the floor table and saw the beauty before him.


    Wang Li was asleep, head on the table and a hand on the same sixth page of his first wife''s journal. He noted the sheen over the mark under closed eyes and wondered if that was to help heal it. Ying Yue placed his head on the table as well and watched the man, his lover, his husband sleep.


    "Ah Li," he whispered, "Will you ever love me the way you love him?"

 Chapter 31 - The King Loves Me

    The Ghost King did not reply, but the blonde just smiled watching the rise and fall of strong chest.


    "Will you ever love me the way I love you?" He asked softly and pressed a kiss on his temple.


    Ying Yue sat back and laid his head back on the table. Placing his hand over his husband''s hand on the journal, his green eyes watched the beauty of the sleeping man. His eyes felt heavy as he blinked listening to the calm breathing of the king. Moving his cheek to press against the back of his lover''s hand, he smiled with closed eyes.


    ["What is wrong?" His green eyes looked over to the Ghost King.


    The man in red ignored him and walked further from him.


    "Ah Li," he called out reaching for his lover''s arm, "Please, tell me so I can help you."


    Fingers wrapped around bicep, and the man in red stopped.


    "Husband," he felt his heart thumping with pain, "Please."


    The right side of his profile turned to him, silver eyes dark and sharp. Those black brows dipped low and a scowl appeared on lips that he loved to kiss. The king shook his arm off the hold and Ying Yue felt his heart drop.


    "Don''t follow me," voice as chilly as the freezing mountain rushed over him, making him wrap his arm around himself.


    "Ah Li," he whispered watching the man in red walk off, "What did I do?"


    The blonde felt his tears fell down his eyes and felt his heart breaking. Covering his eyes, he stood there where the king left him crying softly. Soft fur nudged against his thigh and he looked down. Smiling and wiping his tears away, he kneeled pulling Snow onto his lap. Heart heavy, he closed his eyes and wished that he knew what was happening. Why was Wang Li upset and why wouldn''t he just tell him what was wrong?


    "Do you not love me anymore¡­" He whispered rubbing his cheek against the animal in his arms, "¡­ Wang Li?"]


    Green eyes opened and it took him a moment before he was able to focus his view. The man in blue had his head propped up on the table by his elbow, watching him. A hand reached forward and wiped the tears from his cheek. Silver eyes looked sadly at him and his green eyes drank his lover in.


    "I have always loved you," the king said gently, "I still do."


    Realizing he had asked that question aloud in his dream, he let out a sigh and closed his eyes. Leaning into the palm against his cheek, he knew who that confession was for: his first wife, Sheng Shui. He looked like him because he took over his body. He was dreaming with the memories of that man and he liked it but hated it even more. It was painful to feel the love they had, even with the arguments¡­ he could still feel how much Sheng Shui loved the king.


    He felt the kiss on his temple, and it lingered there before the king pulled back. Green eyes opened to milk the beauty that the man was.


    "What did you dream of," his voice was not cold like his dream and eyes were not frosty, "¡­ to have you in tears?"


    "You," were angry with him, "were sad and¡­" you made him cry, "didn''t want to talk," you left him, "you left me."


    "You left me," he repeated and felt lips pressed against his forehead when he was pulled to a sitting position.


    "I will do everything to stay by your side, Ah Yue," the Ghost King stated pulling him against his chest.


    ''Even here, in this strange world, I am not good enough to love,'' he savored the warmth from the beautiful king. He faced the open door and watched the petals of the plum tree falling.


    ''If I did not look like him, would you even care for me as you do now?'' He wondered feeling the warm hand rub his back.


    "Let us go eat," Ying Yue pulled back and wiped his sleeve on his eyes, "I am very hungry."


    He grinned and stood up, pulling the Ghost King with him. Holding his hand, the blonde pretended his heart wasn''t breaking. Wang Li intertwined their fingers and he leaned against strong shoulder. He could feel a colder breeze wrapped around them as it flew by. A light shiver wrecked through his body and he moved closer to the warmth of the Ghost King.


    Arriving at the table where they ate, he noticed the girls in warmer clothing. He saw the thick coats both Hein and Chu were holding. The blonde watched his king don the thick furred black coat. He felt himself wrapped in warmth when a blue coat landed on his shoulders. The inside was soft and it fitted him perfectly.


    ''Was this¡­ his too?'' His mind questioned and his heart dropped.


    "It is getting colder," Yun spoke up sipping on her tea, "We may need to move inside."


    "It is fine here," Wang Li said as they all sat down with the silver haired female.


    Ying Yue pulled the coat tighter over his body. Holding onto the teacup, he blew and drank it with a satisfied sigh. Pouring more for himself, he savored the heat from the cup before Shen walked with the tray of prepared meals and set the table. Once they were finished with their meals, Wang Li kissed him before he left.


    Again, denying his company.


    Wrapped in the blue coat, Ying Yue was patrolling with the big cat. Why exactly they were patrolling? He didn''t know. Did anyone even want to try to enter the village when they knew ghosts roamed it? As soon as he thought that, he saw Snow crouch low. Following suit, he followed slowly before hearing the noises. In one of the houses, a few men were rummaging inside looking for something or stealing it.


    "Hey!" He shouted, "What do you think you are doing here?!"


    The men froze and slowly turned to him.


    ''You have got to be kidding me,'' he felt his eyes drooped.


    Those three men¡­ the same ones who tried to¡­ touch him. Anger boiled in his blood as he wrapped his hand around the hilt of his sword. They recognized him and grinned, even relaxing.


    "Oi, Sheng Shui," the leader of the group grinned, "Thought you would''ve been dead."


    "What are you doing here?" He questioned coldly with Snow beside him growling.


    "Heard the king has some treasures," the bastard leered at him, moving his eyes up and down his body, "You seem to be enjoying yourself. I suppose all those you''ve bedded were just practices for him, huh?"


    His blood was starting to boil, but he shook it away.


    "Yes," Ying Yue smiled, "I''ve quite enjoyed myself."


    "Just as we thought," the chubby one laughed loudly, "But how long until he kills you?"


    "He won''t," he grinned, "The king loves me."


    The three thieves stared at him for a moment, looked at one another, and laughed even harder. They had tears in their eyes and were holding their stomach to ease the laughter.


    ''Why are they laughing?'' He frowned thinking.


    "Love means nothing to him," the leader stated wiping his tear away, "He said he loved his first wife and even she died because of him."


    ''He! Not she!'' He wanted to correct them, but what they said slowed in his mind.


    "What do you mean she died because of him?" The blonde stared at them hard, "If you dare spread rumors of him¡­" he pointed his sword at them.


    "It was in your book," the scrawny male smirked shaking his head, "Don''t you remember your own work?"


    ''Another book?!'' Ying Yue found himself in shock, ''Sheng Shui! Was your life that boring to write more books!''


    "You wrote the Ghost King stabbed and killed his first wife," the leader crossed his arms with a smirk, "Even when they loved each other, it didn''t stop him."


    Green eyes widening, his mind was starting to pound against the back of his head.


    ''What were they saying? That Wang Li killed Sheng Shui? That the mission to manipulate and kill the Ghost King was true and Sheng Shui couldn''t complete it, which ended in his death?'' He grabbed his head and stumbled against the wall, ''What does this even mean?''

 Chapter 32 - A Shrine Of The First Wife

    "Time to go," the leader snickered and was running off with the others.


    "Snow," the blonde called out and the big cat jumped after the three trespassers.


    He could hear the screaming and Ying Yue forced himself to focus. Rushing over, he saw Snow had blocked their exit and was slowly approaching them. Although he wanted to get his revenge, the thought left just as quickly. Maybe¡­ maybe they needed money? Robbing others¡­ they must not be wealthy.


    "Leave what you stole and you may go," he spoke up, "I mean everything. Snow would know if you forget."


    All three men reluctantly dropped the items they had stolen. They shimmied to pass the big cat before taking off in a run, shouting at one another as they went. Ying Yue let out a big sigh and looked at the stolen items, but there was a specific one that caught his eyes. A plum blossom perfectly the size of his palm was created in sparkling gold. Picking it up, he held it turning to see the blossom shine under the sun.


    ["Wow!" A child ran up to him, "Is it done? Is that it?"


    Brown eyes shining as she stared at what was in his hand.


    "Almost," he laughed and looked down at the flower in his hand.


    He watched as his spiritual energy flow through his index finger, moving to finish one more petal. Once done, he tucked it into the child''s hair, making the child squeal in happiness.


    "Happy birthday child," he said in a calm relaxed tone.


    "Thank you, thank you Sir Yue!" The child ran off showing off the gift.


    He felt his lips stretched into a smile and stood up. He let out a sigh and dropped his shoulder. He felt sad, forlorn in a way, and he watched as the villagers nodded in greeting at him as they passed by. He smiled at them and returned the acknowledgement, but his heart wasn''t in it today. He looked up at the sky and just stared at the passing clouds.


    Then, there were shiny spots falling onto his view and he wondered what it was. More and more fell from above him, landing on his face and around him. He picked the delicate and soft thing on his face. Picking it off him, he stared at it to see the gold, silver, and a tint of red on the petals.


    Amazed at it, he stared some more and felt arms wrapped around him from behind. The smell of plum blossoms and wood scented his nose, making him smile. A warm palm underneath the back of his hand, turned his hand side to side so the color changing blossom captured the sunlight.


    "Do you like it?" The baritone voice said softly against the shell of his ear.


    "It is beautiful," he replied just as soft and looked up from the flower in his palm.


    Walking toward him was Snow, covered in the silver, gold, and red blossoms looking incredibly beautiful. The villagers all watched in awe and some of the children had reached for the blossoms. After licking a few of the children, the big cat stopped before the blonde. His eyes watched as the blossoms lifted off the snow leopard and danced around both him and the king.


    "Ah Yue," Wang Li walked around and stood beside Snow, still holding his hands, "Will you be my wife?"


    His heart felt ecstatic as if it wanted to burst into pieces of colors. Eyes watering, he watched the man in red walk forward to place his forehead against his.


    "I have always loved you," the Ghost King''s lips curled, "Won''t you stay with me?"


    He heard himself laugh softly as tears slid down his eyes. Nodding, he felt the kiss on his lips and he closed his eyes. When eyes watched his lover lift his hand to kiss his knuckle, he couldn''t help the smile stretched across his face, before his eyes widened. There on his ring finger was a gold and black band, shining under the sunlight.


    "I love you Ah Li," he wrapped his arms around his lover, "Forever."


    Closing his eyes, he savored the soft laugh from Wang Li and the warmth against his heart.]


    Green eyes opened, holding the golden blossom in his shaking hand. His empty hand covered his face as he cried, crumpling to the ground. His heart was so happy from that memory, but it conflicted the deep sadness he felt now. Too much feeling, too much love¡­ too much that wasn''t his.


    He felt the nuzzling from Snow and he reached for the comfort. Crying against the large cat, he wondered if what he thought was a pity from the Heavens was actually a punishment.


    ''I should have died then feel this,'' he thought pulling Snow closer to him, ''I don''t want to live like this. I don''t want your feelings or memories. Please, take it away.''


    ==


    When the sun was setting at the tip of the hills, Ying Yue arrived back to the palace with Snow. Heart tired and face crestfallen, the blonde just wanted¡­ he just wanted¡­


    Shaking his head, he headed to dinner and hopefully feel a little better. Unfortunately for him, he noticed the man his heart yearned for was not there. Ignoring the way his heart clenched, he greeted everyone with a smile. Nodding when he heard the excuse for why the king wasn''t there, he ate and conversated with them. He did his best to carry on a conversation, to stay happy, to not let everything affect him, but it was difficult.


    His hands shook, his nose sniffled, his eyes felt puffy, and his chest hurt.


    Excusing himself early from dinner, he walked toward his room but felt dizzy. Hand placed against his forehead, he stumbled with fuzzy eyes.


    ''What¡­ what is wrong with me?'' He sounded muddle in his mind, ''Did I accidently drank wine?''


    Legs taking him to a destination he was unsure of, as hands tracked the walls.


    ''Am I¡­ am I dying again?'' He wondered feeling his heart clenching.


    Stumbling, he pulled the sliding door aside and fell inside. Letting out a groan, he pushed himself up and looked around. The shadows covered most of the area, so he could only see some items in the room. Pushing himself to stand, he closed the door and lit the candles in the room. His green eyes blinked in what he saw and he immediately knew what this room was.


    A shrine for the first wife: Sheng Shui.


    The straw hat was hanging on the wall, the one that brought the two lovers together. There were books and a few scrolls at the floor table in the corner. The other walls¡­ paintings that Sheng Shui had done of Wang Li, of them, of Snow, of Shen and the girls¡­


    He found himself hyperventilating. The Heavens truly hated him to throw him into the room of the man who kept pestering him with memories and feelings. To the shrine of the unforgotten love of a king who wouldn''t let go.


    "Sheng Shui," he shouted lying on the floor, "What do you want from me? You died¡­ you cannot return," he stared blurrily at the ceiling as his eyes watered, "Please move on. I know you love him, but can''t I love him too?"

 Chapter 33 - Live In His Husbands Mouth

    He finished quietly, turning to the side to press his hands against his heart. Doing so, his feet banged into the bookshelf and a book fell. Blinking at it, he noted the soft green and red ribbon. Letting out a sigh, he crawled over to pick it up. No title, no name. Wiping his swollen eyes, he opened the cover and paused.


    I don''t regret it.


    That sentence was written large like a statement. Flipping the page, his eyes started to read and glazed over as he stared at the blank page.


    Hand holding the brush, he could feel himself emotional as he made his strokes.


    ''My story is not one people will envy,'' he wrote, ''nor would any unfortunate soul wish for.''


    ''As long as I have known, I was Heaven''s Conduit- chosen to do their bidding, to bring balance to this world. I had no name, no true family, only my master and two brothers. They were cultivators, meant to rid the villages of evil entities, and I thought I was the same. Meditation, sword practices, visiting villages, and helping others were what we did. Master found a cabin up on a hill where we settled. Life was boring. Until I met him.


    My very first friend.


    I liked him the first time we met and wanted to meet him again. A bit clingy, I know.


    The lake at night were just for us, in our own little world away from others. The way he made me feel, I could not describe fully for it will take up this entire book and more.''


    He let out a laugh and sighed.


    ''When I joined him in the palace, I truly felt like I was part of a family. They were all so kind to me and Wang Li¡­ Wang Li was my favorite person. We were the best of friends. We did everything together and then we became more.''


    A smile on his lips, he closed his eyes for a moment as the memory of their first kiss, their first touch, their first statement of love.


    ''When I found out he was also a chosen one from the Heavens, I was confused. Did Heaven not send only one to do its bidding? Why were they both conduits of Heaven? This question would haunt me later in the darkness of my heart.


    If his purpose was to bring balance too, then what was mine? I thought maybe Heaven made a mistake with me. That the true chosen was Wang Li and I could live happily with him. So, I stayed despite the visits from the Jade Emperor. I stayed despite the changes in Ah Li. I stayed until I found out the truth.


    I must leave. Leave this family, leave the man that I love, my favorite person. It will hurt us both, I know, but if I do not go, he will get worse. I cannot in good conscience do that to him.


    If only I knew then, what I knew now¡­ I would not have yearned for his company or his heart. Then, he would be happy without me.


    I will stay away, even if it cost me my life.''


    Ying Yue placed the brush down and covered his face, feeling the tears slipped through his fingers.


    "The Heavens truly despise us this much," he whispered into the room, "Wang Li, forgive me."


    He wiped his tears with his sleeve and looked down at the book. Green eyes blinked and blinked until it was focused enough to see the signature. Fingers brushed over it and he pursed his lips. Hiccupping, he slammed the book close and stood up pacing the room. Shaking his head, he rubbed his temples as thoughts and memories flew through his mind.


    Sitting on the bed, he looked over to the corner and saw an instrument.


    ''I thought there weren''t any musical instrument,'' he frowned and picked it up.


    A wooden instrument with seven silken strings was in his hands. Feet moving on their own, he placed the guqin on the floor table. Fingers running over the strings, he closed his eyes and felt his fingers plucking lightly. The soft tone floated in the air and he found himself smiling.


    ''Hm, anywhere I plucked sounds pretty,'' he hummed, ''Maybe I can play in the festival.''


    He stopped himself from continuing and stood up. Blowing out the candles, he stood in front of the opened door and looked back.


    "I''m sorry Sheng Shui," he whispered, "I am not you, but I love him as much as you. Please, just leave us alone. Go rest in peace."


    He closed the door and headed to his room. He wondered if Wang Li would be there or if he was still away. Letting out a sigh, he slid open the door to see a figure in bed. Smiling, he took off his shoes and stepped in. Closing the door behind him, he took off his coat and outer robe before sidling under the sheet.


    "Ah Yue," his sleepy voice mumbled when the blonde lifted his strong arm.


    "Did you get a chance to eat?" He whispered softly placing the king''s arm over him as he pressed himself close to the man.


    "Mm," the Ghost King sounded and pulled him in tighter, "What were you doing so late?"


    "Ah, do not worry," he smiled and kissed thin lips, "Let''s sleep, my husband."


    He felt his lover move closer to him, nuzzling his neck and Ying Yue hummed with a smile. Tongue swiped along his curve and his heart jumped. A palm moved down his side to his hip and back up again, before moving to his chest. Slipping the hand under his inner robe, Ying Yue bit his lips as his face reddened.


    "Hm¡­ salty," Wang Li mumbled as the tongue dragged along his skin under his jaw.


    "W¡­ what?"


    The flat of long tongue slid up his cheek and paused under the eyes. The warm palm dragged down his stomach and back up to play with his nipple. Ying Yue''s mouth parted and he licked his lips, wrapping his legs over his king''s hip.


    "Are you alright? What is bothering you, my wife?"


    Ying Yue stared at Wang Li, memorizing every dip, every lash, every perspiration on his lover''s face. He bit his lips and lifted his head up to kiss his king. Almost lost in the way Wang Li''s tongue sent lightening through his body, grunting, Ying Yue quickly flipped them over. He saw the surprise color his husband, before a slow coy smile curled on such pretty lips.


    "Are you not wearing too much clothing, my love?"


    The blonde kneeled up and Wang Li''s hands slid over his skin, leaving heat wherever they touched. Lips were back on his and tongue stroked his. Moaning into the kiss, Ying Yue pulled back to rid himself of his clothing. Now naked straddling his lover''s naked body, he couldn''t help flushing from anticipation. His penis was twitching and beginning to leak just from seeing how handsome his king was, even more when he had his husband beneath him.


    Something about that made his entire body trembled.


    "Husband," Ying Yue looked at his husband with wide inexperienced eyes. Wang Li laughed softly and wrapped fingers around the back of his neck, bringing him down to meet lips. Ying Yue felt as if he could just live in his husband''s mouth. The nails at his nape brought a shiver through his body, gasping and moaning loudly in his lover''s mouth.


    His hips moved and he pushed up with a groan. His cock was pressed to his lover''s beautiful abs as the other hand of Wang Li''s pushed his ass forward, signaling to him what his lover wanted. Wet mouth and panting, the blonde followed and thrust against cut abs, while his husband spread his ass cheeks. Flushing deeply, Ying Yue continued moving and bit his lips when he felt the hard shaft snugged perfectly between his cheeks.


    "So perfect for me, my beloved."


    Gosh, the way Wang Li spoke, Ying Yue would not know what he would do if he had met his husband in his other life.


    ''I''m sure I would end up obsessed with him like I am now.''


    Wang Li thrusted up and Ying Yue''s mind jumbled as he inhaled sharply.


    "Ah, my¡­ uh¡­ mm¡­ love you¡­ love you."


    He panted out as Wang Li took control with large palms on his ass, squeezing it hard. He kissed his lover with panting lips, before he could no longer participate as his eyes rolled back. Trembling, he tucked his head against his husband''s neck as his lover continued to thrust up. Then-


    "Ah!"


    Ying Yue shot up with his body frozen and eyes wide with fear. He was hyperventilating and felt as if his heart was just going to let out and he was going to die and he would leave Wang Li and he would be alone and, and, and-


    "Ying Yue, breathe."

 Chapter 34 - Never Had My Fill

    He focused on his lover''s voice as his breathing calmed and his eyes blinked softly.


    "I¡­ I''m¡­"


    "Shh," Wang Li shushed softly and wiped tears out of his green eyes, "Stay still."


    Ying Yue did. He felt the tug against his rim and he shut his eyes. It felt weird and it hurt, but once the head of his king''s thick dick pulled out, he felt like he could breath again. Yet, he felt empty as his hole clenched the air. Wang Li''s hands massaged his bare ass cheeks and kissed his lips apologetically.


    "I''m sorry, Ah Li. I just¡­ I don''t know why-"


    Wang Li kissed him once more and turned them to the side. Grabbing both of their manhood, Ying Yue gasped and pressed his face on his husband. He just couldn''t help wanting to be closer to his lover, his world.


    "Ah! I, I-"


    "Come for me, baby."


    Ying Yue saw flashes of him coming to just his lover saying those exact words, making him see stars at the back of his eyes. He was bucking, riding his incredible orgasm, before he came back to the ground. His green eyes were glassy and still feeling the afterglow of such an orgasm as he relived those moment. He felt thumbs rubbing his cheek and he grinned goofily.


    "Don''t ever leave me."


    Ying Yue mumbled and Wang Li pulled him closer and the blonde let out a pleased sigh, when he heard his husband say, "Never."


    "Let us sleep, my husband," Ying Yue pulled his head back to feel a kiss upon his forehead.


    Before long, his lover was already snoring softly above his ears. He moved a hand to press against bare chest, listening to the beating of the king''s heart. Closing his green eyes, he let out a deep breath and hoped Sheng Shui left him alone to his own dreams, his own fantasy of the man in his heart.


    But he didn''t.


    Ying Yue saw blood. He heard screams. He tasted death. Things were fuzzy from quick movements and rush of people around him. It was dizzying and he felt like bile will come up out of his throat. Then he felt himself losing his balance and a pain blossomed from his chest. A breathless scream escaped his lips as his eyes cleared to see his lover before him with widened eyes.


    ''Tears¡­ he had tears on his face.''


    "I am sorry Ah Li," he heard him say reaching his hand to wipe tears and blood from the king''s shocked face, "Won''t you forgive me?"


    "Ah¡­ Ah Yue," voice so soft, he could barely hear it through the ringing in his ears, "I am sorry. Let me heal you! I don''t know why¡­ WHY!"


    "Shh," he whispered and pulled the Ghost King closer to his face, "I love you always."


    View darkening and sound deafening, all he could see was the panic on that beautiful face and thin lips moving. The words that kept repeating in his mind was so deep and ingrained in love that Ying Yue felt sick.


    ''No matter where I go, I will return to you, my dearest husband.''


    Green eyes woke up with a start, as he breathed heavily. Sweat built up across his forehead from fighting to wake up. Why won''t that despicable, shameless, terrible ghost leave him alone! Covering his eyes with a palm, he took deep breaths and clenched his teeth.


    ''Sheng Shui! I will not give up,'' he wiped at his face, ''I won''t give him up.''


    With that determination, he was going to play a song that he would create just for his lover. He will perform in front of all the ghosts and people. He will not back down. He will win Wang Li''s heart. He had too! Just thinking about it made his heart clenched and cry with pain.


    He looked over at the sleeping figure beside him and bit his lip.


    ''I should¡­ I should try more, right?'' He swallowed the saliva built up in his mouth as his eyes roamed the bare chest, tattoo wrapped on the right side.


    Hovering his hand over the bare skin, he licked his lips in anticipation. The Ghost King was a light sleeper and if he kept touching his chest, the man would surely wake up. He didn''t want that¡­ he wanted him to wake up after¡­


    Face reddening to the tip of his ears, he slipped his hand under the covers, lightly running his fingers over the manhood. He felt it twitch and he glanced to see the man was waking, but there was no stir. Wrapping his hand around the shaft, he moved slowly up and down. A groan escaped the king''s lips and silver eyes opened to stare at him.


    "Ah Yue?" Wang Li pulled his face to him, "Did you have a good dream again?"


    "I just," he looked away embarrassed, "I just want to make you happy."


    Normally, the initiator was Wang Li, but Ying Yue¡­ he wanted to show that he did want this very much. That it wasn''t just him giving in to the demands of his king. At least, that was how he felt.


    "My silly wife," Wang Li licked his plump lips, "You make me very happy."


    Kissing, mouth parted and tongues rubbed. He rubbed the tip of his lover''s cock and earned a deep moan from the king.


    "One moment," Wang Li pulled away and sat against the wall. Ying Yue watched his husband get comfortable and went back to wrap his hand around the hardening member of his lover.


    "Come," the Ghost King pulled his ankle to have him kneed facing the hardness, while his husband had a full view of his¡­


    "A¡­ Ah Li," his entire body flushed, "This feels¡­"


    "Do you want to stop?" Wang Li questioned concerned, but his wife shook his head and continued to pump.


    Silver eyes took in the view of his lover''s round ass and hardening cock. Ying Yue''s chest was pressed down to his abdomen, breath close to his hardness. His hands ran up the light skinned thighs, causing a tremble to run up the beautiful body. Hands landed on soft behind and he slowly kneaded them. Spreading the cheeks, he stared at the tight pucker and groaned deeply, as if seeing it was painfully arousing.


    "So beautiful, my love," Wang Li puffed ghosted breath against the pucker to have it dilate, "I will never have my fill."


    Long wet tongue licked at the hole before him, as he had entered long ago.


    "Ah, Ah Li," his lover moaned and he did it again.


    Licking, swiping, twisting his tongue teasingly against the pretty pink hole. Each puff against his hardness, told him the blonde was enjoying it. The movement of hips against his tongue told him to enter. He pulled his tongue away and heard an upset sound from his lover. His thumbs played against the rim as the other hand reached for oil. Making sure to soak his finger, he ran it against the twitching rim.


    "I am going to put a finger in you, Ah Yue," he breathed out feeling the licks against his tip, "Okay?"


    "O¡­ okay," he heard his wife hesitated.


    Finger pressed at the rim, before it slid in slowly. He could feel the clenching of those muscles and he ran his other hand up and down his lover''s back.


    "Ah Yue," he kissed and nibbled the butt cheeks, "You are so good to me."


    Lips wrapped around his shaft and he tried not to thrust his own hips.


    "How I thought of this, of you, of us," he moved his fingers around the edges of the tightness, "My beautiful wife."


    A moan against his shaft vibrated and he clenched his stomach. Moving the finger more incessantly, he oiled up his other finger and pushed both in.


    "Ah, hah," Ying Yue panted out as his hips pressed and pulled against those fingers.


    He tried to focus on pleasing the king as he licked, mouthed and sucked the bulb. Wang Li tasted¡­ he tasted¡­ he liked how the king tasted. Enjoying himself, he suddenly felt his entire body lit up as his body shivered. It happened again and he shouted trying to pull away, but a strong hand held his ankle in place. Again and again, he felt his thighs trembling and he felt weak.


    "Ah Li¡­ Li Li," he said breathlessly, mouth hanging open, "Mmph, ah. Please."


    "Feels good?" He heard Wang Li questioned and he moved his hips into those magical fingers.


    "I, I''m gonna¡­" he panted out loudly wrapping his hand around his lover, "Come."

 Chapter 35 - It Excites Me

    He put the cock in his mouth and felt Wang Li''s hips move upwards to thrust into his lips. Moaning out, he could feel it stretching his mouth. He pulled away when he felt like he was going to choke, but always returned with his lips wrapped around the member.


    "Ah, Ah Yue," the king panted out, "I am ready."


    Harder thrusts in his mouth, fingers pounding into the magical bundle of nerves, and a hand wrapped around his hardness led to the two of them coming with moans and groans. Ying Yue had his mouth still wrapped around his husband when cum filled his mouth. Swallowing so he could breathe, he didn''t realize he was licking the rest of the cum from the twitching hardness. Not until he felt a light slap against his bottom.


    Pulling away, he moved to the side and stared at his lover. Licking his lips to taste more of his husband, he saw the pleased smile on the king''s lips. Strong hand gripped his wrist and pulled his fingers to thin lips. Green eyes watched heavy lidded as his lover''s tongue licked a strip up his palm before taking his fingers into his mouth. Wet tongue wrapped around fingers, sliding between digits as lips sucked. Everything just felt so hot, and Ying Yue wanted more of the heat. He moved forward pulling his fingers out of those expert mouth and kissed the king. His hand landed on the exposed chest, moving to grope the hard skin.


    "Ah Yue," the Ghost King pulled him back and the flush on his face made the blonde want to see more of it, "You are more eager than before."


    "Is it¡­ not okay?" The heat he was feeling was slowly cooling off, "I am sorry if I-"


    "No," the raven haired beauty shook his head and ran his finger through his hair, "It excites me," he let out a soft laugh before sighing, "I have not finished my work and preparation for the Autumn festival are unfinished."


    "Oh," Ying Yue nodded in understanding, "Then I shall help."


    "Then after, my wife," his husband kissed his cheek and he grinned out laughing.


    "After, my husband."


    They lied back down and Ying Yue wrapped his leg over Wang Li''s hip. He heard a soft laugh as he clung to his husband like a clingy monkey. He felt his king''s fingers run up and down his back before a slap landed on his bare ass. The blonde gasped and wanted to pull away, but Wang Li held him still.


    Another slap and Ying Yue''s hips twitched with his butt cheeks burning.


    "My wife, I changed my mind."


    He pulled back and search his lover''s face to see a smile on his husband''s face. Lips kissed his and he felt his back on the bed. He moaned into the hot mouth and wrapped his legs around his lover''s waist. He felt needy and desperate, as if Wang Li''s touch was all he yearned for. He felt the blunt of the thick tip against his hole and he flushed deeply.


    Biting his bottom lip, he watched as Wang Li pushed in slowly, deeply, that caused him to arch his back. His exposed neck was sucked and kissed leaving bite marks where they land on his milky skin. A thrust filled him and he felt his heart bounced against his chest. He trembled and shut his eyes tightly, with his eyes watering.


    "Are you okay? Hurting?"


    Wang Li asked quietly as he kissed the corner of his eyes. He opened his eyes and kissed his husband deeply. They kissed and made out for a while, ending with saliva connecting their lips. A thrust and another made Ying Yue moaned loudly. Palms touched his chest and pinched his hardened nipple, earning a gasp from his plump lips.


    "Ah Li," Ying Yue panted out as his hips rolled up, "My husband."


    Wang Li smiled and moved harder, deeper, the way he remembered his wife enjoyed. It didn''t disappoint. The sounds Ying Yue was making would always make him fully aroused. Pulling a leg to place over his shoulder, he leaned down and moved quicker.


    "Ah! Puh¡­ please¡­ Ah, ah, ah!"


    Wang Li could feel the tightening against his cock and he groaned. Wrapping his fingers around his lover, he felt the bucking of his wife before Ying Yue curved his back like he was offering his chest to him. Pushing in deep, Wang Li held him still as his lover''s body shivered and trembled. Silver eyes just watched his wife floating in the moment of bliss and euphoria, pleased with himself for being the cause.


    When Ying Yue came back from his climax, he lied still just staring dazed at the ceiling. He¡­ he just came from his husband. His first time-


    He could feel the throbbing inside him and he looked over to see Wang Li on his knees gripping his hips. Smiling, he reached out to wrap his arms around his lover''s neck, moving into his king''s lap. Kissing Wang Li''s lips, he bounced on the hardness inside him. Wang Li bit his plump lip and rolled up into him, causing him to inhale sharply.


    "Hu¡­ husband. Inside me, please."


    "As you wish, my love."


    Ying Yue was not prepared for the hard thrust hitting him right where his eyes would roll back. Over and over he felt the pounding and he could feel his penis filling once more. It wasn''t normal, was it? He just came twice not too long ago and here he was ready to burst again. Gripping the back of his king''s hair, he groaned loudly as he moved up and down faster. His entire body was tingling and burning as if he was being electrocuted in small doses. Teeth caught his pulse point at his neck and bit. Hard.


    He shouted and the hard grip on his ass made his body buck like he was convulsing from another orgasm. He whited out for a while and only came to when he felt fingers wiping his sweaty hair from his forehead. Blinking slowly and hazily, he just stared lost with his mouth parted, wet, and drools slipping down his lips. He could feel his husband''s seed inside him and he breathed out a smile. Wang Li pulled back, attempting to pull out, but Ying Yue held him tighter.


    "You want me to stay inside?"


    He nodded slowly, lying on his lover''s chest.


    "I will always be inside you, my wife."


    "Yes," he breathed out and he heard the laughter from his gorgeous husband. How would he ever leave this perfect specimen. Sighing, he closed his eyes and welcomed many more beautiful days with him.


    ''I deserve this. We deserve this.''

 Chapter 36 - You Look Beautiful

    The festival was tomorrow, and he was already sweating profusely. Helping to hang lanterns all around the village was a hard task. He was on the roof attaching a long red banner, signifying the mid-autumn festival. Smiling to himself, he felt a sense of familiarity with his past life. When he was Bai Lan, this festival was his favorite. The colors, the lights, the feeling of togetherness was something he envied and wanted. There had always been something¡­ strong in his heart every year during the festival.


    He would hike up the hill nearby and stare out to the village, watching the lights and celebration. He would always find himself smiling and looking at the moon. It was strange, but he felt the safest and the most peace  in his boring life.


    But now¡­


    He finished the tie and looked over to the other roof where Wang Li was.


    Now he had a home, people who loves him¡­ he had Ah Li, his husband.


    Silver eyes looked toward him and the blonde smiled. He saw his lover whispered into his closed palm before opening it. Emerald eyes widened as a shining white butterfly, with red lining, flew toward him. Reaching his own palm out, he watched as the butterfly touched his palm before landing on his shoulder, beneath his ear.


    "Ah Yue," he heard the king''s voice and he looked over at the smiling man in surprise, "You look beautiful."


    Flattered, he giggled against his palm before wondering if he could also send a message through the insect. Repeating the movement of the king''s, he held the butterfly in his palm and whispered.


    "My husband," he said softly looking at the man in blue, "I thank you, but you are the most beautiful in this world."


    He opened his palm and the messenger flapped its wings. He watched the white butterfly leave a stream of glitter in its path toward his lover. Ying Yue observed the beautiful face to see a soft laugh escape those thin lips. They both looked at one another and he really wanted to jump over to join his husband, but Chu had called to him. Looking at the blue haired female, he nodded and turned back to see the raven-haired male nodding to him. Leaving Wang Li with a smile, he climbed down thinking about how his king would be surprised.


    ''Ah Li,'' he bit his bottom lip as a smile spread across them, ''I cannot wait for you to hear my song for you.''


    Ying Yue had been practicing as much as he could without any suspicion. He did sacrifice his time in training, meditating, and studying, but it was worth it. The song he made was perfect. It embodied everything he felt for Wang Li and he hoped he does not forget which string to pluck and where. Everything will go right. He had to believe that.


    "Sir Yue," Chu bowed lightly, "We are almost done," she said looking around, "I feel like we are missing something though¡­" she tapped her chin.


    "Oh, do we have fireworks?" He questioned and Chu tilted her head.


    "Fireworks?" She looked at the blonde.


    ''Do they not have that here?'' Ying Yue wondered, but the brightening of purple eyes answered his question.


    "That''s right!" The blue haired girl clapped her hands, "I''ll check in with Ah Shen and see if he has the ingredients for them."


    "I can go," he offered, "I was going to help him prepare the mooncakes."


    "Oh, that would be great Sir Yue," Chu nodded, "Make plenty. The villagers would be able to eat them tomorrow, so make plenty!"


    "Alright," he let out a laugh and waved goodbye. Heading back to the palace, he felt something land on his shoulder. Glancing at it, he noticed the butterfly from earlier and smiled.


    "Ah Yue," his husband''s voice sounded, "I will return tonight. Do not work too hard. I love you."


    His heart swelled with the confession as he pretended it was for him and not his first wife, not Sheng Shui. Holding the butterfly in his hands, he smiled.


    "You as well my husband. I love you. Come home safely," he whispered and let the butterfly fly off.


    Watching the insect go, the blonde entered the palace and headed to the kitchen. Entering it since the door was opened, he saw Shen moving quickly from one area to the other. One young man taking care of meals and desserts. He felt guilt gnaw at him, so offering himself is the right thing to do.


    "Ah Shen," he spoke up and the white-haired boy glanced at him with a nod, "Do you need help?"


    "Do not worry I-" the young man started.


    "Just let me do something," he dropped his shoulders with a sigh, "I know you are working hard. I don''t know much about cooking, but I can help as long as you tell me what you need."


    Purple eyes stared at him before Shen told him to knead the dough. Smiling, the blonde went to the large dough and did as the young man instructed. Rolling it out, fill it with lotus paste, fold the dough, and repeat. Both men worked quietly in the heated kitchen, but neither minded. When Ying Yue was finished with the rest of the dough, he turned to Shen who had already laid the finished mooncakes on a metal sheet.


    "Are there more mooncakes you need to make?" He asked the young man.


    "These are good for now," Shen turned to him and bowed, "Thank you Sir Yue."


    "You don''t need any other help?" His blonde brows lifted in surprised.


    "Not at the time," a small smile showed on the young face and Ying Yue blinked again, wondering if this was enough.


    "Alright then," he smiled, "Oh, Ah Chu wanted to know if you have ingredients for the fireworks."


    Shen thought about it before nodding, "She can grab it later today. I will tell her."


    Ying Yue nodded and bid farewell as he walked out of the kitchen. Stretching his arms above his head, he headed to the girls'' room with a grin.


    ''Neither Chu nor Hien are here because they are setting up,'' he told himself as he quickly slid the door opened, ''and Yun had gone to the market for supplies.''


    Closing the door, he went to the wardrobe hoping to find an outfit for the festival tomorrow. He wanted to look his best when he played in front of Wang Li.


    ''Sheng Shui,'' he said determined, ''I will definitely win his heart.''

 Chapter 37 - This Mark Was Your Fault

    As he looked through the tunics and robes, a specific one caught his eyes. White like snow with golden lace for sleeves, he pulled the robe out and stared at it. He took in the look of the clothing and knew this was it. It was perfect!


    ''Oh, it might be cold,'' he went to where the heavier coats were.


    He paused at the thick black one Wang Li wore the other night and ran his fingers along it. His eyes then landed on the red one.


    ["Ah Li," he turned around holding the red coat, "Red is your favorite color, isn''t it?"


    "I do like red," the young raven-haired male let out a laugh, "Is it wrong?"


    "I mean¡­ you do look nice in red," he quickly turned back to the wardrobe and cleared his throat, "Hm, why don''t you try getting a white one?"


    "Why?" The boy in red asked standing beside him.


    "Well, when it gets cooler you can hide in the snow and I won''t be able to find you," he grinned at the king.


    "Why would I hide from you?" Wang Li asked as silver eyes took in the surprised look on his face, "I like you Ah Yue."


    He felt his heart racing as his face heated up, and the hand sliding down his head to cup a cheek did not help.]


    "Stop it!" Ying Yue shook his head hard, "This is not about you Sheng Shui, so stop already."


    He pulled that red coat out and stuffed it in his arm with a frown. Going to the accessories, he grabbed without thinking and stomped to the first wife''s room. Once inside, he placed all the items on the bed and rubbed his forehead. It felt like it was burning, but he let out a breath and sighed. Sitting down before the guqin, he closed his eyes with his fingers above the strings.


    He played as softly as he could, so the others didn''t know. Smiling, he opened his eyes and watched his thin fingers move on their own, as if he were an expert in the instrument.


    ==


    Wang Li pulled his palm away as his breath came out ragged. Sweat beaded down his forehead and he closed his eyes. He felt a soft cloth dab across his forehead and face. Silver eyes looked over into red eyes, where he saw worry with anger simmering behind it. When the demon pulled his hand back, he saw what he was holding.


    "You still have it," he said quietly.


    "Of course," Ye Wu stared softly at the red handkerchief, "It was your first try."


    Wang Li thought back to that day.


    [A nice day under the plum trees, they sat eating when he saw the demon pull out a deep green handkerchief from his sleeve. He watched as Ye Wu wiped his mouth with it, humming to himself the same tune.


    "What are you looking at?" The demon questioned before grinning, "My pretty face?"


    "Ah Wu," he pointed at the cloth, "Did you make that yourself?"


    "Hm? This?" The red eyes demon held up his dark green handkerchief with the emblem of a dog, "No. It is from a friend. But I know how to make one, why?"


    "Can you teach me?" His silver eye watched the demon tilt his head before a laughter escaped his lips.


    "Why do you want to? Just get one of the others to make it for you."


    "Ah Wu, please," he sighed, "I just want to make something of my own."


    Red eyes took him in and a sigh escaped the demon''s lips.


    "Alright, alright," Ye Wu waved, "Don''t be a baby."


    Agreeing to help, they stayed under the shade as Wang Li did his best to thread a plum blossom on the red cloth. When he was finished, he showed the cloth to Ye Wu who laughed, choking himself in the process.


    "You don''t have to laugh," he frowned squeezing the red handkerchief.


    "My apologies my king," the red eyed demon reached his long fingers to run his finger through the child''s dark tresses, tucking it behind small ear. Wang Li felt light taps against his cheek before Ye Wu grabbed his work from his clenched fingers.


    ''Sad little baby,'' the demon grinned.


    "Well, it definitely isn''t the best looking one that you will make," he watched red eyes analyze his work, "but the stitching is even enough."


    "Really?" He wasn''t sure if the demon was just lying to him.


    "Yup," Ye Wu grinned and grabbed another squared red cloth, "here," he handed to him, "Try again."


    Wang Li looked at the handed cloth to notice a thin black outline of a plum blossom. Silver eyes widened and looked up into red ones.


    "Ah Wu?" He questioned only to receive a grin, as the demon continued eating, "Thank you."]


    He remembered how easy everything was back then, underneath the plum trees and clear skies. He owed much to the raven-haired man, that he would never deny, but he also knew the risk of befriending the demon. Did Ye Wu knew the risk of befriending him back then as well?


    "Ah Li," the demon broke him out of his past, "What is so important about this amulet? I know something is wrong with you."


    His eyes glanced back at the stone before he turned away with a quiet sigh. He looked back at the red handkerchief in Ye Wu''s hand.


    ''So long¡­ and he still has it,'' a part of him was happy and the other part was saddened.


    Calloused hand touched the left side of his face and he stared into red eyes, but those eyes were busy looking at the mark. All these years and Ye Wu still cared enough for him to abide by his rules. He knew this was not ideal for Ye Wu, but soon everything will come to fruition. He winced when the demon pressed against his skin underneath his eyes, and he pulled away sharply.


    "He is back," his tone was dark and cold.


    Wang Li did not reply.


    "Ah Li-"


    "Don''t," he said sharply, cutting the demon off with his cold tone. Wang Li did not want to speak about it. He will finish what he started and then¡­ and then Ying Yue and he will be happy once more.


    "No, you must listen," Ye Wu was tired of not being listened to, "You already know of the curse, of what would happen! That mark, it is spreading once again. You will not be able to control it any longer!"


    "This mark was your fault!" The man in red shouted and all the cries of souls and demons quieted.


    Wang Li covered his left eye where the mark laid and let out a deep breath.


    "I apologize," he said quietly, "I lost my anger, Ye Wu. I do not regret this mark. I do not regret belonging to you."

 Chapter 38 - I Found You

    "Not accepted," he heard Ye Wu replied in a whisper and his silver eyes searched the human like face.


    ["Are you certain?" He could still here the demon questioned him in his youth.


    "Yes," he had said determined with a nod.


    "It will mean you will be mine, young king."


    "And you will be mine, Ah Wu. You won''t have to be lonely anymore."


    He could hear the soft laughter from the demon as a finger pressed under his left eye.


    "Don''t ever regret it," the raven-haired demon whispered before the nail pierced flesh, "Ah Li."]


    Silver eyes closed and he looked over to see the back of the demon in black. Turning, he went toward the exit and left Ye Wu alone.


    Walking slowly to his palace, he leaned against the wall with his head tilted upward. Staring at the moon, he found himself calming down before a wreck in his chest pushed the blood out of his mouth. Coughing with his body bent over, he stayed that way until he felt better. Wiping his mouth with his sleeve, he continued to walk slowly to his home. A white butterfly with gold lining looked like a glowing orb in the night. It flew to him and landed on his shoulder.


    "You as well my husband. I love you. Come home safely," he heard his wife''s message to him and he smiled.


    "To be with you Ah Yue," he chuckled to himself, "I will do anything."


    When he arrived, he went straight to their room and undressed. Sliding close to his wife, he breathed him in. Closing his silver eyes, he let out a deep breath.


    ''Almost done,'' he felt the blonde moved closer to him and he wrapped his arm around the sleeping body.


    "Wait for me Ah Yue," he whispered pressing a kiss on his wife''s head, "Just a little longer."


    ==


    Green eyes blinked slowly as sleep faded away. Sitting up with a yawn, he felt his lips stretched.


    No dream. No Sheng Shui.


    ''Maybe he finally left me alone,'' he let out a relieved sigh.


    He looked beside him to see the sleeping beauty was still lightly snoring. Smile softening, he ran his fingers through long black hair. His finger ran over the mark underneath the left eye and felt the ridges rougher, almost flakey.


    ''How did you get this and why isn''t it healed?'' He questioned inwardly seeing the splotches of redness where the skin was attempting to heal.


    Ying Yue wasn''t stupid. He knew something was wrong with Wang Li. The Ghost King slept longer, was gone more, and was paler. The blonde worried he was sick, but Yun had told him that his husband was fine.


    Bending down to kiss the mark, his lips touched the rough patch of skin. He pulled away, but suddenly felt his back on the bed with the king holding him down. Wide emerald eyes blinked at the man who was breathing softly against his ear.


    "Ah Li," he playfully nipped his lover''s shoulder, "Are we not busy preparing for the festival?"


    He felt the body above him tense before Wang Li pulled his head back. His silver eyes were heavy and he blinked at him for a moment. He smiled at his husband and that seemed to wake up the sleepy man.


    "I apologize for waking you," he watched the Ghost King slowly moved off him, "Go back to sleep, Ah Li."


    "A lot to do still," the man mumbled rubbing his eyes.


    "We will have everything prepared for tonight," he pressed his lips onto thin ones, "Sleep, my husband."


    Within a few breaths, the man was sleeping again. Ying Yue watched him for a moment, enjoying the soft look on Wang Li. Finally getting up to get ready, he dressed himself and walked out quietly.


    Today was the day.


    He felt so excited that he was bouncing the entire day. Setting up the stands around the village, helping to prepare the meals, setting up the bamboo shoots for the fireworks, and finding time to bathe and practice his music in between. Before he knew it, the sun was already starting to set. Hien and Chu had pulled him into their room and dressed him for the occasion. Looking presentable, he stepped out only to find Wang Li standing with a decorative fan.


    ''Red¡­'' his emerald eyes drank in the sight and found his mouth dried, ''So¡­ so beautiful. Just like my dreams all those years. It really is him, my king, my husband. I found you.''


    "Uh¡­ Ah Li," he cleared his throat walking toward the king, "I have imagined you in red, but never thought¡­ you would look so¡­"


    ''¡­ like the man in my dreams! So perfect! So beautiful!''


    "Terrible?" The raven haired male smirked.


    "Yes," he stuck out his tongue and lightly slapped the man''s chest.


    "Standing beside you, I would agree," Wang Li admitted kissing his cheek and he sighed leaning onto the strong body.


    "Hopeless," he said and his husband made a questioned noise, "To not love you."


    He felt the vibration from the laugh against him and Ying Yue laughed with him.


    "No, my love. Hopeful."


    He grinned and tucked his head to breath his lover in. He felt soft fur rubbed against his hand and he looked over. He found his mouth stretched into a grin when he saw the big cat was donning a red band around his neck with a hanging bell. He scratched the leopard''s ears and neck before reaching for the bell.


    ''I didn''t even hear him come up,'' he thought wanting to know if the bell was broken.


    "Ah Yue," Wang Li grabbed his wrist and pulled it toward him, "It is a gift for you."


    "A gift?" His green eyes sparkled.


    "During the fireworks, you can have it," the king smiled and the blonde glanced back at the gift Snow was holding.


    "Mm! Okay," Ying Yue nodded with a grin and pecked those lovely lips, "After."


    "My wife," the king''s voice tickled his ear, "Are you still ready for tonight," he felt Wang Li''s hand slid down his back, "When we are in bed together," his body shivered, "I shall please you fully," the king finished with a hand groping his behind.


    He jumped; face flushed from the tip of his ears down his chest. Gripping the wrist and pulling it away, Ying Yue banged his forehead lightly against the king''s chest.


    "Wang Li," he whined with his eyes closed as his body felt too hot, "Stop teasing me."


    Hands cupped the side of his head and pulled him back. His head was tilted back as his green eyes looked at mirthful silver ones. He felt himself smiling looking at his husband. He could never be mad at him.


    ''Don''t stop loving me Ah Li,'' he thought closing his eyes as the king kissed him.


    Wang Li pulled away and kissed his forehead, before wrapping his hand with his. Ying Yue felt his heart so warm and calm. Today was his favorite day.

 Chapter 39 - You Are The Sweet I Crave

    "Sir Yue," Hien coughed lightly and his green eyes turned to her, "Your fan."


    He accepted the item and opened it. The scenery of the plum trees was brushed on with an image of an small cat silhouette underneath it. Mouth widening, he glanced at the brunette who smiled at him.


    "Is this¡­ Snow?" He questioned pointing to the small outline.


    The female laughed softly into her sleeve as she glanced at her king. She bowed and left, leaving the blonde to stare at the image on the fan.


    "Do you like it?" Wang Li questioned and he nodded.


    "Do you know who painted this?" He looked toward his husband as they started walking with Snow beside them.


    "Why do you wish to know?" The raven-haired beauty questioned with a knowing smile.


    "I really like it and I want to know if this is Snow," he pointed to the outline of the cat, "Do you think so?"


    "It is," Wang Li nodded and his green eyes sparkled.


    "Really? Snow, look! It''s you," the blonde showed the big cat beside him and laughed, "How do you know Ah Li?"


    "I drew it," the king admitted and Ying Yue stopped in his walk.


    "You¡­ you drew this?" He looked at the painting in a new light, "You are just too perfect Ah Li."


    He watched the smile stretched into a grin and the blonde felt his heart skipped loudly in his ears.


    ''Perfect,'' he smiled happily bouncing as he continued his walk beside his lover and pet, ''I would never give this up.''


    The sun began to set, and the chiming of bells could be heard. He held tighter to his husband''s hand as he watched the villagers appear. Lanterns were lit all around the village, illuminated the transparency of the people. Yet, they were happy and excited for today.


    Ying Yue should be scared.


    This was the first time he had ever seen ghosts before, but he only felt¡­ peace. A part of him thought that was strange, but the other part just ignored it. His husband was the Ghost King after all. They walked through the streets and many of the villagers who saw him smiled widely, bowing to him and the king. Children were running up and down the village playing games and eating mooncakes that Shen had made.


    He smiled enjoying the night as the stars sprinkled the sky and the happy chatters filled the space. Continuing down the walkway, they saw Shen grilling and handing the beef stick to the villagers.


    "Ah Li," he whispered close to the man, "The villagers¡­ they could eat food, right?"


    "Mm," the king nodded eating a mooncake and kissed the top of his head, "It is only today they could."


    "Why is that?" He asked curiously looking around.


    "My power is stronger today," smiled at his wife, "Because of you."


    Cheeks dusted in red, Ying Yue found it hard to suppress the grin he was sporting.


    ''If I were to have met Wang Li in my other life¡­'' he covered his mouth with his hand, ''I probably would go crazy with all his sweet talk and teasing and¡­'' he glanced at the silver eyed male who was stuffing another cake into his mouth and looked away shyly, ''¡­ I would have lost my purity the very moment he touched me.''


    "Sir Yue!" The children ran up to them with their lanterns, "Can you make me it again?"


    Green eyes looked at the one calling him and his eyes widened slightly. This child was the one¡­ the one that Sheng Shui made the golden plum blossom for.


    ''Wait¡­ how did she know my name?'' He wondered but felt his sleeve being pulled.


    "Please," her big brown eyes pleaded and the other children followed suit.


    "You want a plum blossom?" He questioned and her head nodded while the other children said they also wanted one too.


    ''How¡­ do I make it?'' He smiled nervously and felt Wang Li wrap his arms around him from behind.


    "Ah Li?" He questioned with those strong hands wrapped around his.


    "Just focus on what a plum blossom looks like," he heard the soft words against his ear as his hands were maneuvered: one faced up and the other closed with a finger over his open palm, "Move your spiritual energy to the tip of your fingers and draw it out."


    He watched as the petals were created with the movement of his finger. He was in awe of what he was making and felt the grin splitting his face. Once he was finished, he handed it to the child who squealed happily. He tried on his own and although some petals were too long or short, he was able to complete one for all the children.


    "Thank you, Sir Yue, my king!" They all shouted happily and ran off.


    The sound of music floated through the village and he looked around. The villagers all headed to the lake and Wang Li interlocked their fingers. Joining them, he could hear they were getting closer to the sound of music notes. When they arrived, he was pulled over to sit at a bench as everyone settled down before the four musicians. His eyes glanced to see Snow surrounded by the village children, running small hands through his fur.


    ''Lucky you,'' he smiled.


    A moon cake was held out for him and he thanked his lover, laughing as he saw a third cake in between his husband''s teeth.


    "You really do love sweets, don''t you Ah Li?"


    Wang Li smirked and leaned over to whisper, "Yes, but you are the sweet I craved the most."


    He flushed and felt hot. He covered his lover''s lips and pushed his husband away from him, feeling suffocated by his love. He heard a chuckle from Wang Li and he pushed him harder with a grin.


    Ying Yue''s eyes returned to watch the twins who started playing to a nice calming tune. He looked up at Wang Li and found his face reddening. Looking away, he bit his bottom lip worriedly.


    ''I¡­ I don''t know if I am ready to play it for him¡­,'' he leaned his head against his lover''s shoulder, ''What if he doesn''t like it? What if I mess up?''


    Upset with himself, he shook his head and started making more golden blossoms. By the time Hien and Chu were finished, he had made over 20 blossoms.


    "Ah Li," he whispered, "May I?"


    Wang Li looked over at his wife and saw all the blossoms he had made. Green eyes were looking at his hair and he found himself laughing. Nodding, he moved to sit before the blonde and watched as Shen began plucking the pipa. Closing his eyes, he let the plucking sound resonated in the air, and felt every vibration of the strings. Thin fingers placed golden blossoms in his hair, tucked into his braids.


    "Wang Li," his wife wrapped his arms around his neck from behind, "I have¡­ a gift for you too."


    "Hm," he kissed the blonde''s hand, "Besides your body?"


    His mouth was covered by his lover''s hand and he could imagine the flush covering those pretty freckled cheeks. He opened his mouth and licked the palm over his lips, causing the blonde to pull his hands away. He turned his silver eyes to see his wife''s face dusted in red. Emerald eyes stared at him from lowered lashes and he reached his hand out to touch the heated face.


    "I¡­ can I give you the gift now?" Ying Yue questioned shyly.

 Chapter 40 - The First Drop Of Snow Fell

    "If that is your wish," his eyes softened and the blonde stood.


    He glanced over to Yun who had just joined Shen''s playing. She nodded and he walked away with his wife. He felt himself being pulled as the blonde walked faster to the palace.


    ''What do you have planned, Ah Yue?'' He wondered and found himself smiling.


    "Ah Yue," he slowed his wife down, "You are my gift," he kissed the blonde''s forehead, "You do not have to-"


    "Stop¡­ stop talking," Ying Yue shook his head, "I have been practicing for a while and¡­ please Ah Li. Let me show you, okay?"


    "Alright," the king said gently and they continued into the palace.


    "Can you wait here?" The blonde asked and saw his lover nod, "Can you also¡­ um¡­ face the entrance?"


    "Ah Yue," the Ghost King sighed but turned as he asked.


    "It might take a bit for me to set everything up," he continued, "Please wait for me."


    He saw Wang Li turned back to him and pulled him closer. He felt the softness of those thin lips and he tilted his head. Enjoying the kiss, he wrapped his arms around his husband.


    "I will always wait for you," the king whispered softly against his lips and he smiled.


    Pulling away, he felt himself giddy when the raven-haired beauty turned to face the entrance once more. He quickly took off into Sheng Shui''s room where everything he needed was. Covering his face, he squealed before taking big gulps of breaths. He was going to do this and do it right!


    Taking off his outer wear, he dressed himself in the white robe adorned with golden silk laces. Draping the red coat over his shoulders, he went to the jewelries he had grabbed. A few necklaces and hair accessories with gems of all colors were what he grabbed, but the silver hairpin stood out the most.


    "It matches my eyes and Ah Li said he loves my eyes," he flushed lightly smiling to himself.


    He looked into the small mirror and got to work in making himself look as attractive as he could for his husband. With the final touch of the silver pin, he took a deep breath and picked up the guqin. He opened to door and walked out, hoping to all of Heavens that he would succeed in finally winning the Ghost King''s heart.


    "Wang Li," he spoke up and the raven-haired male turned. Silver eyes widened and the fan in his hand fell to the ground with a soft ''thuck.''


    ''That is¡­ a good thing right? He was just so shocked that he dropped his fan,'' he flushed when those eyes looked up and down his body. Swallowing, he went to the floor table and placed the instrument on it. Squatting to sit down, he let out a breath and began.


    Light and airy notes filled the air around them. He closed his eyes and felt the strings were warmed by his fingers. The glow of gold with each pluck was new, but not distracting. He continued his song, hoping it swayed his lover to him. Not his first wife, not Sheng Shui, him.


    While at the lake, Snow had suddenly stood up and ran toward the palace. The children were trying to follow, but Yun and Shen had told them to stay. Hien and Chu kept the villagers occupied, while Yun and Shen looked up at the sky. Golden lights, like sparkles of bursting stars, were in the palace where their king was. When they arrived, Snow was shrinking back and hiding in the bush. Both Shen and Yun''s purple eyes widened when they saw the wife of their king playing the deadly instrument before their king.


    Yun rushed forward, but she felt the seeping coldness freezing her skin. She looked over at Shen who was walking forward, ignoring the cold frost against his skin. The music stopped and Yun opened her mouth, but no voice escaped her lips. She saw the white-haired boy reached frost bitten fingers toward their king, but Wang Li walked forward, eyes only on the na?ve blonde.


    The first drop of snow fell and landed on the ground.


    Ying Yue was proud of himself for grabbing the coat. The weather was getting colder and as he finished playing, he could feel how cold his fingers were. He looked up to notice the cowering leopard and the two pair of purple eyes looking at him in fear. Confused, he looked over to see Wang Li walking toward him. His skin prickled with a strange sensation, a fear he hadn''t felt since the first day he entered the palace.


    Cold silver eyes stared into his green eyes as the man neared. Gulping down, he wondered if his king didn''t like his music and was upset with him. Maybe it was the musical instrument; it belonged to Sheng Shui, after all. Maybe no one was supposed to enter the first wife''s room; was that why Yun and Shen were looking at him scared. Fingers moved through his blonde hair and gripped the back of his head.


    "Was this your gift?" The voice made his body shivered in fear and he nodded slowly, "I should have known," the king gritted out with his face close, "I should have never left you alone. You always bring me trouble!"


    Green eyes widened and he opened his mouth, but Wang Li clamped it with his other hand.


    "Did I say you could speak?" The Ghost King narrowed his silver eyes, but Ying Yue could see a hint of red beneath it.


    "I hate you," his husband said coldly letting him go, "I should have killed you."


    His heart was beating quickly and his eyes began to water. What was happening? Did he do something terrible to lead Wang Li to behave this way to him? All he wanted was to make his husband smile, for his lover to love him.


    "Slayer," he heard the raven haired male call out and a sharp black sword appeared in his hand, "Any last words, Heaven''s Chosen."


    Green eyes watered in confusion with overwhelming emotions. This was not supposed to happen. Everything was wrong and now¡­ now Wang Li hated him. He glanced at Shen who was struggling to stay upright, Yun who was moving her lips, but no sound came out, and the whimpering of the scared cat. He felt the tip of the blade under his chin, bringing it up to make his head tilt. Cold silver eyes stared into teary green ones. There was a slight hesitation, a pinch in the edge of his eyes that Ying Yue saw.


    "Ah Li," he whispered and watched the mark underneath his lover''s left eye stretched. It moved, breaking skin like paper as blood followed through the scar.

 Chapter 41 - It Had Been A Long Time

    Wang Li gripped the scar and pressed against it, smearing the blood on his skin and palm.


    "Ah Yue," he fought to take a step back, "I-"


    His eyes sharpened and Ying Yue thought he was going to die, but someone clashed blades with the king. His green eyes blinked taking in the new comer. The man had red hair and was a bigger built than his king.


    Frozen in place, he watched them face off.


    "Ah Yue!" The sound of familiarity was near him and he turned to see the brunette male.


    "You¡­" he said softly.


    "Yes, your brother," the brunette smiled, but quickly said seriously, "We need to go now."


    "I¡­ I can''t," he shook his head as he looked back at the Ghost King, "I can''t leave him."


    "It will only get worse again," the brunette shook him, "Don''t you remember?"


    "I¡­" he stared at golden eyes and a sharp pain was felt in his mind. It felt like a screw being hammer in his brain, causing him to scream out. Grabbing his head, he was breathing hard, feeling the brunette''s comforting hand.


    The sound of a crash caught their attention. Wang Li was standing looking intimidating in his red tunic with golden blossoms in his braided hair. It was his eyes, his blood red eyes that made the pounding in his mind stopped. Ying Yue felt a wash of clarity fell upon him.


    "Leave Ying Yue!" Han Mo shouted as he stood up holding a fan, "He wants you. You must leave."


    He moved to his knees and saw the brunette send out a wave of sharp blue light. Wang Li had no trouble avoiding the attack as he swung his sword. Ying Yue looked over at Yun and Shen, who had fallen unconscious. Even Snow was no longer making noises and laid there like a stone.


    "Ugh!" Han Mo called out as he tumbled down onto the ground, coughing out blood.


    The redhead clashed his sword with the Ghost King once more, but Wang Li narrowed his red eyes. In his empty hand, a cloud of black and purple swirled making the pressure around them deepened.


    "Stop!" Ying Yue called out and grabbed the guqin. Plucking specific strings, he shot out toward his lover, golden lights sharp like blades. He watched Wang Li avoid the attack, losing his concentration to release the pressure. His red eyes turned to his and the king looked at him. Two steps closer to him, but the man with red hair attacked swinging his sword. Ying Yue ran over to the brunette who was struggling to stand up.


    "Brother," he said quietly holding the man steady, "You should leave with big brother. I will stay."


    "You are an idiot," Han Mo sighed, "Do you not see how he is? Do you remember now?"


    The blonde didn''t reply, and his golden eyes narrowed. Before the brunette was able to speak up, they heard a crack and a groan. The redhead was holding onto his arm as blood was dripping down his temple. The black sword swung and aimed for the kill, but the redhead continued to defend himself.


    "Wang Li!" His wife shouted, "What are you doing?! Stop!"


    Ying Yue rushed forward and called out for his blade, "Sword."


    ''His eldest brother was losing blood and had gotten on his knees. He was in no shape to fight anymore and if Wang Li continued¡­''


    Clashing his blade with his husband, he could feel the space between them crackled with tension. His sword glowed gold as he watched those red eyes staring at him, wanting blood, needing to kill.


    "Ah Li," he whispered, "Stop."


    Ruby red eyes wavered, but the long black sword swung at him. Ying Yue blocked, and his arm trembled with the force. His once green eyes, now golden like his brothers, looked into his husband''s eyes with worry. He pushed harder, forcing his energy through his sword. The glow made his lover grimace and jumped back. Ying Yue pursed his lips as his brows furrowed upwards.


    He saw his husband, beautiful even with red eyes and dripping blood, stare at him like an enemy. Wang Li reached out his hand and a cloud of black smoke curled around his hand. The Ghost King was intimidating and he swallowed hard. Inhaling, Ying Yue tapped into his core and sent his energy to his own sword. It glowed brighter and he rushed forward.


    Like slow motion, he saw the hand lift to aim toward him and Ying Yue swung his blade, sending out a wave of bright light.


    Dark and light clashed cancelling both power as a wave spread through the palace, the village, and out to the lakes. Candles blew out, lanterns broke, and the clouds watched them from above. Snowflakes dropped from the sky and petals fell.


    ["Wang Li! Let me go!"


    The raven-haired male laughed and tightened his hold, causing the blonde to wince.


    "I will never let you go. You are my wife. You belong to me."


    "You''re hurting me, Ah Li-"


    "Enough!"


    He froze and saw the redness coloring silver eyes. Breath like a predator catching his prey, Wang Li hovered him. He searched his lover''s face and he did his best not to cry like last time. Breathing deeply, he relaxed his body from the tension. He blinked his golden eyes slowly and leaned up to press kissed against strong jaws and neck. He felt the twitching against his wrists, before the hand released him.


    Ying Yue continued his kisses and moved to the corner of his king''s lips. Wang Li tilted to slot their mouths together and kissed him deeply. He cupped his lover''s face and hummed pleased. When he pulled away, silver returned to replace the ruby eyes. Wang Li reached for his wrists and stared at the bruise. He watched his husband kiss his wound and Ying Yue breathed out a smile, capturing those lovely thin lips.


    Wang Li returned to him. He will always return to him.]


    "Ah Li, please. Return to me," He said softly and the raven-haired man blinked at him.


    The sound of fireworks exploded into the air and red eyes closed. The Ghost King pulled back and opened his eyes to show silver. Wang Li''s sword was gone from his hand and he looked forlornly at him. He watched his husband step back until there was enough distance between them. He heard a low grunt from the big cat, and the shuffling of clothes as Yun and Shen woke up.


    "Ah Ling," the brunette looked at the redhead.


    "I am fine," he replied watching the silence between both his young brother and the Ghost King.


    Wang Li looked at his wife, beautiful as the day they met. The outfit he was wearing and the accessories¡­ the silver hair pin¡­ even with his memories hidden, Ying Yue still found his way back. Those eyes were golden now, just like his brothers behind him. He remembered the first time he saw those green eyes golden.


    ["Ah Yue, your eyes," he ran his fingers over the mark on the blonde''s forehead, "This mark¡­ you are chosen."


    "I¡­" Ying Yue searched his face worriedly, "¡­ maybe it was a mistake. You are the chosen one from Heaven, Ah Li."


    "Ah Yue," he smiled softly and pressed a kiss to the mark, "Your eyes are beautiful as gold or green, and this mark¡­" he placed his forehead against his best friend, "Means we are bonded, does it not?"


    He felt palms on his collarbone and heard the soft laughter from plump lips. Pulling back, he saw his best friend smiling relieved.


    "Why have you hidden it?" He questioned.


    "I thought you would¡­" Gold eyes turned away from him.


    "I would never leave you, Ah Yue," he admitted covering the blonde''s hand on his collarbone.


    Golden eyes searched his face before a bright smile spread across red lips. Ying Yue let out happy laughs as he leaned forward with his forehead against his shoulder.


    "Ah Li," the blonde paused for a moment and he hummed for his friend to continue, "Um¡­ I¡­"


    He turned as his friend pulled back, lips brushing against cheeks. Both froze in place as their breathing quickened, eyes widening. He felt his heartbeat raced when the blonde pulled further back to stare at him. He watched as those golden eyes looked at his lips before a flush covered his freckled cheeks. Golden eyes investigated his own silver ones.


    "I¡­ should go," Ying Yue whispered, but did not move from where he was.


    "Do you¡­" he whispered squeezing his best friend''s hands, "¡­ like me?"


    He saw those cute ears reddened and he found his own cheeks heating up.


    "Ah Li," the blonde gulped and trembled slightly, "If I say yes, would you-"


    "No," he interrupted with a smile, "I would never leave you, Ah Yue," he repeated to see the smile on his friend''s face.


    "Then yes, I like you," Ying Yue nodded, "¡­ and you?"


    He grinned and let out a soft laugh, "I want to kiss you."]


    ''It had been a long time,'' Wang Li stared at his wife under the falling snow, ''Since I have seen you this way, Ah Yue.''

 Chapter 42 - Do You Trust Me

    "Been a long time," Ying Yue smiled lightly, "Since I''ve seen snow."


    He returned the smile, but he winced and covered his left eye. He heard footsteps nearing him and he found his face softening. His wife had concern in his eyes as he reached for him, to comfort him like all those times in the past.


    His brothers stopped his wife, pulled him back from touching him.


    ''Ah Yue, we truly are connected.'' Closing his eyes, he turned and walked toward the center of the courtyard.


    "Ah Li," the blonde called out, "I¡­" hesitation, "¡­ You, are you alright?"


    "No," he whispered, "We should''ve had more time."


    "We still can, Ah Li."


    "No," Wang Li looked up at the snow, landing on his face, "You know now. You remember."


    "Not everything, not enough for me to leave again. I won''t leave you again," Ying Yue closed his eyes as tears built up.


    "You were never a good liar," the Ghost King said softly, "You know enough."


    He looked up to the sky as snowflakes fell against his hair. He closed his silver eyes as his mind returned to a time when both Ying Yue and him were happy. He took a deep breath and slumped his shoulders, as Shen and Yun came to him.


    The blonde felt his heart breaking. He just remembered some things, not everything. He remembered those dreams he had were his. His dream man was Wang Li. He remembered Sheng Shui was him, to his dismay. He remembered parts of their marriage. He remembered the arguments with his lover. He remembered leaving. It was all spotty, but the thing he remembered the most¡­


    Was pain.


    "Come," Zhang Xu Ling pulled him toward the entrance of the palace as his tears fell.


    "Ah Shen," Zhang Han Mo looked over at the white-haired male, but the sharp purple eyes were burning with anger at him.


    "Ying Yue!" The redhead shouted as the blonde ran over to wrap his arms around his husband''s waist.


    "Ah Li," he cried, "This whole time, this whole time you waited for me¡­ saved my things," he tightened his hold, "I don''t want to leave you again."


    Wang Li turned around to face him and held his face in his hands. Warm silver eyes softened, wiping his tears away. The king leaned forward wanting to kiss his lips but pushed him quickly away, grunting as the piercing pain was felt on his left eye. He stepped back a few steps, pressing against the bleeding mark. The look on the blonde was heartbreaking, but he offered a smile.


    "You should go, Ying Yue," he stated, hand still over his left eye.


    "Is that¡­ what you want?" The blonde shook his head with his doe golden eyes, "I left you before. I know¡­ I know we can make it work. I just have to-"


    "You idiot! You have already tried before. Don''t you dare try to be selfish again!" Xu Ling shouted grabbing his arm harshly.


    He cannot believe his youngest brother. Still the same stupid selfish brat. Looking over at the Ghost King, he narrowed his golden eyes at the man. Did he not understand that this would only make things worse again? Did the raven-haired male find pleasure in harming his brother? Scowling at the man he had just fought, he called out to him.


    "Why are you not saying anything? You know what will happen, what will happen in the end. Tell him."


    Silver eyes narrowed at him before those eyes turned to look at his brother. He watched as the Ghost King''s face softened and reached out, calling for his brother. His eyes widened slightly, as he felt the shrug to escape his hold. He watched as Ying Yue ran to his lover, blonde hair flowing behind him. The king wrapped an arm around his brother, but Xu Ling was not stupid. He could see that being close to the blonde was affecting him, yet the Ghost King was as selfish as his idiot brother.


    "Ying Yue," Wang Li pulled back from the hold with smile, "Staying with me¡­ it would only-"


    "I will leave when you tell me to," the blonde smiled, "When we''ve exhausted every option. I know I tried to do it on my own before, but I didn''t tell you. I just thought¡­ but now that you know too. We can make it work together, right Ah Li?"


    Big golden eyes looked at him as if to plead with him, to agree to this one more time. He nodded and the smile on his wife''s face was all that he needed.


    ''Just a little longer,'' he gritted his teeth as he kept his smile on, running his fingers to tuck the blonde hair behind cute ears, ''Can you not give me more time with him? This is too soon. He should be with me longer. Ah Yue, my beloved wife¡­''


    "Thank you, Ah Li," he heard the relieved sigh and he swallowed the blood in his mouth back down his throat. It burned and cut deeply into his gut, spreading acid where it touched. He focused on pretty golden eyes, soft round lips, the smile, the laugh, the scent of his wife. He ran his fingers down Ying Yue''s soft skin and memorized the flutter of long platinum lashes fanning over doe-like eyes. He memorized the light shiver and raised bumps where his touched glide. He memorized the small tuck of lip being bitten lightly by prefect white teeth.


    He memorized the way his wife looked at him so fondly, lovingly, wholly.


    ''I will do anything for you, Ah Yue. Remember that.''


    "Wait, are we really just leaving him here after the Ghost King tried to kill him and us?" Han Mo questioned incredulously shaking his brown hair, "Ying Yue, let''s go. Hurry up."


    "Brothers," the blonde turned to face them and smiled, "Would you see where I am needed in the villages? I will go when I am needed, I promise. I just¡­ I just want to be with Wang Li. Please understand."


    "You are still a fool!" His eldest brother shouted, but his attention soon went to the coughing from behind him.


    His golden eyes widened as his lover fell on his knees, hacking out blood. He fell beside him to soothe his husband somehow, but it only led to his lover to cough harder, wheezing with hands flat on the ground. Shen and Yun rushed over and looked on with furrowed brows. He took out the red handkerchief and wiped the blood that kept escaping out of his husband''s mouth. Tears falling down his golden eyes, he felt his heart racing with sadness.


    "Ah Yue¡­ you know it is you," the brunette said softly.


    He closed his eyes and pressed his lips on wet bloody ones. He didn''t care if all he tasted was blood. He didn''t care if all he tasted was the saltiness of his tears. All he cared about was Wang Li was hurting and he was the cause of it. He couldn''t stay. He COULDN''T stay. HE COULDN''T STAY!


    Crying, he forced himself to pull away and stepped back with tears on his face. He felt hands on his arms, holding him back in case he was to run again; run back into strong arms and sad eyes. Run into heaving chest and bloodied lips.


    He watched as Wang Li caught his breath with his moonlit eyes closed and Ying Yue felt his stomach twisted. His lover, his husband, stood and did not turn to him. Wang Li''s profile was strikingly beautiful, dusted with snow. He took a snapshot of the image into his mind to remind him of what he had done, what he had to leave behind, who held his heart.


    They knew what the only choice was left. Neither wanted to leave the other and yet, they were forced to do so. Just like before.


    "Do you trust me?" The king questioned softly and the blonde nodded without hesitation, as tears ran down golden eyes, "I will be with you soon."


    "So you could-" the redhead started, but the raven-haired male interrupted him.


    "I promise, we will be together again," Wang Li smiled, "Snow," the big cat bounded to his master, "Go with Ah Yue," he scratched the leopard''s head, "Take care of him for me."


    Snow went over to the blonde and rubbed against him. Ying Yue didn''t feel happier, but he felt better from what his husband said. He could hear his brothers telling him to leave and he hesitated. The last time he left¡­ Snow did not join him and Wang Li¡­ he wasn''t angry this time.


    ''Maybe things would be different this time,'' he turned and followed his brothers, but paused at the entrance.


    "I will be waiting, Ah Li," he said softly and cried all the way to the cabin in the hills.


    Hien and Chu arrived to see Ying Yue leaving the palace with his brothers and Snow. They looked at one another and entered to see their king standing. The white puff of snow was covering his shoulders and head, face flat and cold. They both hurried in and closed the palace doors.


    The snow was starting to bleed.

 Chapter 43 - Remind Me Of Everything

    [He stood at the lake, Wang Li''s favorite spot to stare at the moon. It was not full tonight, but the sprinkle of stars twinkled in the water. He worried his hands wondering if the raven-haired male forgotten. If his friend had forgotten about him. He took deep breath to calm his quickened heart. The blonde had not shown up at their nightly meeting for five years due to an unexpected move by his Master to meditate in the caves. It had been a long time and Wang Li was probably mad at him for missing their meetings.


    ''Maybe¡­ maybe he gave me up,'' he looked down, ''I mean¡­ it had been a long time.''


    He heard footsteps nearing him and he turned, golden eyes widened.


    Wang Li.


    Long black hair was twisted in a braid with glass beads decorating it; eyes of silver as sharp and clear as the first day he saw the man was staring at him. Red¡­ how he made the color look even more captivating must be a gift of the beauty before him. He saw the head tilt and he smiled. He couldn''t help the way his heart filled with happiness just staring at his best friend.


    ''So handsome...''


    "Ah Li," he greeted softly, frozen with weak legs.


    "Ah Yue," the man in red''s voice was deeper now and it did things to his body, things he didn''t want to focus on at the moment, "It has been a long time."


    He nodded his blonde head and watched as the man, once the same height as he was, now towered him.


    ''He still looks beautiful,'' he thought and smiled.


    "Are you hungry?" He waved at the meal he brought with him, "I brought your favorite."


    Silver eyes warmed and nodded. Ying Yue found himself sighing in relief. He had thought his friend would be angry with him, but it looked like he was forgiven¡­ maybe. Sitting under the tree, he pulled out the bowl of fatty beef and another of the white wined rice. Sharing the bowls, they ate quietly underneath the stars.


    "Ah Li," the blonde felt like he needed to confess, "I am sorry for leaving for so long without telling you. I¡­ my master said I needed to go meditate," he explained, "Said it would open up my channels."


    Wang Li nodded in understanding.


    "You know," he let out a soft laugh spooning the rice, "When I was meditating, I thought I heard you."


    "Oh?" The raven-haired beauty questioned chewing on a beef.


    "Yeah," he grinned, "Thought you were there with me, you know?"


    "Did you miss me that much?" The man grinned at him with a soft laugh.


    He rolled his eyes, but grinned back. Finishing their meals, he packed it up as both leaned against the tree. Ying Yue missed this. He missed being here with his best friend and he missed the comfort the man brought him. He turned his head and watched the raven-haired male looking at the stars. He found his lips curling up, enjoying his view of the man in red.


    "Ah Yue," his friend turned to him and their face were close, "I missed you too."


    "I want to kiss you," he said quickly and felt his face reddened, but it was true.


    The first time they kissed¡­ he dreamt of it often. He really did like Wang Li and it scared him yet excited him at the same time. Licking his dry lips, he stared at those lips on his best friend. He saw them smile and his golden eyes looked at the soft silver eyes.


    "As you wish, Ah Yue," Wang Li said softly and Ying Yue nodded.


    Heart racing and ears hot, he leaned forward and closed his eyes.


    ''I love you.'']


    He opened golden eyes, once green, and stared hazily at the wooden wall before him. His eyes felt puffy and his nose felt sensitive. Closing his eyes, he wanted to relive those wonderful memories of his lover. Instead of the reminder that he left Wang Li again¡­ just because¡­


    ''Why?!'' He covered his face and curled himself into a ball, ''Why must it be like this?''


    The door opened and he heard footsteps near him, but he ignored it. He heard a sigh and felt warm hands pulling his arms away from his face. Golden eyes met another pair.


    "You can''t just lay here all day," the brunette sighed and placed the warm wet cloth over his eyes.


    "Ah Mo," he whispered letting the cloth relax the puffiness, "How long have I been away and how¡­ How did I return?"


    He didn''t hear anything for a moment, before a deep sigh escaped the brunette''s lips.


    "Well," his brother wrapped a finger around his own chin, "You never truly left after that day. I mean, you were Sheng Shui, but elder brother and I knew there was something wrong with you. You weren''t full."


    Ying Yue pushed himself to sit up, pulling away the cloth and stared at his brother.


    "I was living in a different place," he admitted, "Things were much different there."


    "Ah, no wonder you didn''t remember much in the beginning. Your souls are probably connected now," He felt the brunette press his fingers onto his wrist, listening to his pulse and smiled, "Yup. Welcome back little brother."


    He offered a smile he wasn''t feeling.


    ''If my souls never¡­ I would still be with Wang Li,'' he found himself thinking.


    "Oi," Han Mo flicked his forehead, "Whether or not you are whole, the Ghost King would still end up like that. It is the curse, remember?"


    Ying Yue pushed his brother away and stepped outside where Snow was laying on the grassy hill. His blue eyes saw him and sat up. The platinum blonde walked over and sat down, placing his head against the strong body of the animal. The bell around his pet hung waiting for him to open it. Wrapping his fingers around it, he unlocked the clutch and pulled the item out.


    His cried softly as his thumb rolled over the ring.


    ''Ah Li... my dearest husband...''


    He clutched onto the ring and pressed it to his chest. There was a slight chill in the air without his coat, as his body shivered lightly. However, his mind did not take in the cold; he was already inwardly cold. He was numbed. It felt as if someone scooped out the important person in his life and left the hole wide open as he bled.


    He didn''t know how long he was laying with Snow, but the sound of his brothers neared him.


    "Get up," the redhead said sternly, but he ignored his eldest brother.


    "Ah Ling, just let him be," Han Mo spoke up.


    "He had been like this for four moons already! This cannot happen again," the eldest brother pulled him by his shoulders and lifted him up, "When are you ever going to learn? For one of us to die? Both of us? Was Master''s death not enough?!"


    "What are you doing?!" The brunette grabbed Xu Ling''s arm, frowning at the eldest.


    "You were chosen for a reason, you little idiot. Stop making things worse!" The redhead shouted and tossed him, but Snow had stood up, blocking the blonde from falling.


    A low growl from the big cat sounded and Ying Yue looked toward the sky for a moment. Cloudy like his heart.


    Turning back to his brothers, he nodded. Xu Ling was right¡­ He had been selfish for much of his lives. If he were to do what the Heavens wanted¡­ Would he be able to get his wish; would he be able to finally be with Wang Li without this crutch over them?


    "Remind me," he said softly looking at his eldest brother, "Remind me of everything."


    "They are still blocked?" The brunette questioned worried, running fingers through his scalp.


    "I want to remember everything," the blonde stated with no emotion.


    Han Mo pulled his fingers back and glanced at the redhead. The eldest closed his eyes for a moment, then looked at him. Seeing his brother nod to him, the brunette let out a sigh.


    "You should sit down for this and relax, Ah Yue," he instructed softly.


    They both sat down: the youngest brother facing the village below while the other sat behind him. Closing his eyes, Ying Yue let out a deep breath. He felt fingers against his skull once more and felt the flow of his energy toward those digits. He could feel where they were stopped in certain places, while others flowed through easily.


    "Ah Yue," his brother said gently, "You''ve blocked them yourself. Are you sure you want me to unlock them?"


    "Why do you think I would block my memories?" He questioned softly.


    "I am not sure, but maybe it was to forget or because you came back from a different world."


    "Go on, brother. I am ready. I must know everything."


    Then just like that, he felt rips in his mind before he covered his head in pain. Memories, so many of them, bombarded him with feelings and emotions. Tears welled up in his eyes and he could hear the worried sound from Snow, as the big cat was nuzzling his shoulder. Then everything went black, but he was swimming¡­ floating through the past.

 Chapter 44 - Looks Better On You

    The blonde was walking around the streets of the village, as the sun beat down on his skin. His master had told him to pick up some ginger roots and red cabbage, so here he was in the bustling streets with his brothers. Looking through the stands, his eye caught the shiny hairclip. Heading to the jewels, the elder woman smiled at him.


    "Hello there, child," she greeted, "Such a pretty girl you are. Which do you like? Grandma will give it to you for cheap."


    "But I am a boy," he pouted, but he pointed at the different colored jeweled hairpin, "How much is it?"


    "One gold coin," the lady said but paused, "Since you are such a pretty girl, you can have it for two silvers."


    He smiled and nodded. Grabbing from his pocket, he handed the amount the lady asked for and held the pretty golden jeweled hairpin. Smiling to himself, he looked around to realize he lost his brothers. His anxiousness rose as he looked around to not find them near the area, so he walked further down. The amount of people and stands lessened the further he went. Feeling tired, he adjusted his straw hat on his head, but the breeze flew harshly. It grabbed his hat, twisting it, and flipping it in the air.


    He chased after it, upset that another bad luck was happening to him. Turning the corner, he saw the straw hat enter the opened doors of the palace. Blinking in front of the bordered estate, he remembered his master telling him to avoid this area but was never told why. He heard footsteps from inside and the shadowed entrance revealed a boy with silver eyes and black hair. He wore a red tunic with black pants. The golden embroideries covered his shoulders and the edge of his sleeves. On his hair, pulled up into a ponytail, had a silver pin adorned with emerald gems.


    His arm reached out with his straw hat and the blonde blinked down at it. Letting out a smile, he looked at the boy again.


    "Thank you," the blonde said and saw the boy nod and turned to return into the shadows, "W¡­ wait."


    His silver eyes turned to him once more. Clearing his throat, the blonde pulled out the hairpin he just purchased. Stretching his hand out, he offered the adornment to the boy.


    "What are you doing?" The boy questioned with his head tilted slightly.


    "For you, as a thank you," he smiled waving his straw hat as a reminder.


    "There is no need to give me something," the boy replied staring at him with interest.


    "Just take it," he grinned, "It probably looks better on you anyways."


    Silver eyes widened slightly, before the curl of those small lips lifted. Instead of reaching out for the item, he watched as the raven-haired boy reached up to pull his silver one out of his hair. Then the arm holding the silver item was switched in place of the gold one. He stared at his hand for a moment, before looking into silver eyes.


    "The jewels match your eyes," the mysterious boy nodded to him, "It would look better on you."


    Then the boy in red turned and walked away leaving him stunned at the front doors of the palace. Once he returned to reality, the platinum blonde felt his lips stretched into a grin.


    ''Well, what do you know,'' he skipped away staring at the silver hairpin, ''I think I made a friend!''


    When he caught up to his brothers and paid for what their master asked for, they returned to the cabin in the hill outside of the village.


    "Master!" He greeted happily as he jogged up to the elder.


    "Took you all longer that I assumed," Master Pang watched the three boys.


    "Heaven''s chosen got distracted and lost," the boy with a bun pulled up to his head said, "We went around looking for the brat."


    "Hey!" The blonde frowned, "I only looked away for a moment."


    "To buy yourself some jewelry," the redhead barked out, "You are lucky we were able to haggle the shop owner for the rest of the items."


    "Ah, big brother," the other boy had tried to calm the upset boy, "Let us not get upset."


    "Are you taking his side again, Han Mo?" Xu Ling questioned lowly as his purple eyes brightened.


    "That is enough," Master Pang waved with his fan in hand, "Let us prepare the meal then begin your trainings."


    ==


    (Two years later)


    "Hey, come on! You don''t have to run; we are only playing," a boy huffed out as he, along with others, chased after the blonde.


    ''Stupid boys!'' He frowned slipping past the villagers, ''Why can''t they just leave me alone?!''


    They been chasing him for a while now and he was getting tired, but he didn''t want to leave yet. If he were to run out of the village, what if those boys followed him? They would keep coming to harass him! The thought that Xu Ling would beat them up made him grin, but it quickly fell.


    ''Psh! He would get upset with me and say: you take care of your own problem!'' The blonde mimicked with his mouth upset.


    Rushing around a corner, he found a large jar sitting against the wall and made a decision. Lifting the lid, he stuffed his body inside and waited. Covering his mouth, he calmed his breath as he heard footsteps rushing around.


    "Didn''t she come this way?" The oldest boy questioned.


    ''I''m a boy!'' He glared in the dark.


    "I thought so," another voice spoke up, "Maybe she is hiding?"


    His eyes widened and he found his heart racing. His bad luck really was a curse, as he heard footsteps close in. Just when he thought he would be discovered, the voice of an adult called out to them. He heard steps grow more distant and he let out a long sigh. Closing his eyes, he fell asleep in the dark of the jar. He didn''t know how long he slept, but he jolted to the sound of soft steps.


    ''Oh no, are they back?'' He wondered and lifted the lid slightly to not catch anyone''s attention.


    Through the slit of opening, he saw someone in red with gold embroidery. His green eyes widened as he lifted the lid higher to see the raven-haired boy from a couple years ago. He was about to call out, but the boy turned to him and those silver eyes widened.


    "Uh, hi," he grinned sticking an arm out to wave.

 Chapter 45 - Was He Not As Good As The Moon

    "Why are you in a jar?" The boy questioned staring at him with interest.


    "I was hiding from some guys," he said trying to pull himself out, "They kept chasing me, so¡­" he grunted struggling to break free, "I decided to hide."


    Letting out a sigh, he tried to pretend like he was just relaxing with both arms out and half his chest above the jar.


    "So, what are you doing?" The blonde said casually.


    "I''m going to the lake," the boy stated turning to look at the darkening sky, "It looks beautiful at night."


    ''The lake?'' He was interested and tried to pull out once more but failed.


    "You''re stuck," the raven-haired boy walked over to him, "Give me your hands."


    The blonde did as instructed and felt half his body was out of the jar. Excited, he moved his arms to wrap around the boy''s neck. A loud popped was heard before they stumbled back, falling onto the ground. White blonde and dark black hair mixed with one another, like yin and yang.


    Green eyes pulled back to stare at silver ones.


    Fingers moved to touch his warm cheek before sliding up to tug his strands behind his ear. His emerald eyes took in the thin lashes bordering bluish platinum eyes, the soft coral lips, and the milky white of his skin. A mark that he didn''t recognize before sat underneath the boy''s left eye, dark like ink. He lifted his hand to slide his fingers on it, curious to follow those strange lines.


    "Where did you get this?" He whispered as his pads felt the ridges of the mark.


    "Why do you want to know?" The silver eyed boy stared at him and he felt his face heat up when he realized how close they were.


    Pulling away, he stood up clearing his throat. Offering a hand, he pulled the red robed boy up to notice the golden pin tucked into his ponytail. When those eyes looked at him again, he couldn''t help but grin.


    "You still have it," the blonde pointed to his own pin in his hair, "I have yours too!"


    A small smile was placed on the face of the boy and he found himself laughing out happily. He followed the raven-haired boy to the lake in the quiet of the night. He could not believe his luck! He got to meet the friend he had made from years ago again. Though he hadn''t seen him since that first day, he was happy to know they cared enough about one another to keep their exchanged gifts.


    "What''s your name?" He asked and the boy in red turned to him.


    "What is yours?" He heard the question as they reached the lake.


    "Hm," the blonde sounded and thought about what to say.


    Since he could remember, he''s always been called Heaven''s Conduit , Heaven''s Chosen, or The Choose One for Heaven. His brothers and even his master had names, so why didn''t he? Frowning, he deserved a name too, right? It wasn''t fair that he didn''t have one. Looking over to the boy before him, he watched the way those silver eyes watched the moon. A sparkle, a shine, like the raven-haired boy loved the moon, envied it even. Something stirred in his stomach, and the blonde cleared his throat to receive the attention of the boy.


    "Why don''t we give each other a name?" He offered with a shy smile, "I mean, something special, just between us?"


    The boy in red tilted his head searching his face, before his lips curled up.


    "What would you call me?" He questioned and his green eyes blinked.


    ''Hm¡­ what should I call you?'' He looked at the milky face before him and then looked up and down.


    "I got it!" The blonde nodded with a smile, "How about Wang Li?" He offered to see furrowed brows on the boy''s face, "You hold yourself as a ruler, like an emperor, a king," he explained, "And you are pretty. I am certain this should be your name."


    He nodded in agreement with himself, determined to convince the boy in red.


    "Is that so," the boy looked at him with a smile that was as dazzling as the stars and he found himself blinking dumbly at that face.


    He saw those silver eyes looked back at the moon and he frowned. Was he not as good as the moon? Why did he always look at that thing? The moon didn''t talk back; the moon wasn''t that great-


    "Ying Yue," he heard the boy say as he turned to face him again, "Will you accept this name?"


    "W¡­ why?" He stumbled out confused, "Why would you call me that?"


    He heard a soft laugh from those thin lips and he crossed his arms over his chest.


    "I think it fits you," the boy in red said softly as his silver eyes looked at him, "You''re quite beautiful."


    "I''m¡­ I''m a boy," he spluttered out red faced, "You''re only saying that because you think I''m a girl!"


    His eyes started tearing up as he turned away from the boy. Stupid. This boy was the same as those other boys, those adults, everyone but his family! His friend was no different. He thought-


    "I never thought you were a girl," he heard the boy say confused and he turned wiping the tears from his green eyes, "A boy can be beautiful too."


    ''Oh,'' he found himself flushing with embarrassment.


    "Here," the boy handed him a red handkerchief with a golden plum blossom adorning the corner. He wiped his face quickly and handed it back to the silver eyed boy.


    "Keep it," a frown graced those thin lips, "Let me think of another name."


    "No," the blonde quickly shook his head as he smiled, "I like it. Sorry I got all¡­ like this."


    "You are pretty like a girl," the boy stated as a smile blossomed, "But beautiful as a boy."


    "Stop," he shouted pushing him away gently with his face burning, "Do you compliment everyone like that?"


    The laugh echoed into the night and he found himself laughing along. Facing the moon, he thought about the name the boy gave him.


    ''Ying Yue¡­ means reflection of the moon right?'' He glanced at the boy in red to see those silver eyes on him, as a smile adorned his lips.


    "Let''s meet here again, okay Ah Li?" He asked hopeful and he smiled so wide his cheeks were hurting the next day, but he didn''t care. The boy in red had nodded his head and smiled at him.


    "Yes, Ah Yue. Let us meet again."

 Chapter 46 - I Dont Want You To Be Alone

    *When you see == this meant time had passed if it wasn''t clear. Keep in mind Ying Yue is relearning his past- the ones that were hidden away. Why? You''ll find out~*


    They all were readying their sword before their master. A short breeze and they attacked. Swords swinging, but their master dodged easily. The wooden fan, strengthened by his energy, blocked blades and pushed it aside. Another round of practice and he opened his fan, spread it, and flapped toward them. A hard gush pushed the three young boys back, causing the youngest to roll backwards.


    "You all have gotten stronger," he smiled running his hand down his beard.


    "Thank you master," they bowed, while the blonde laid flat on his back.


    Ying Yue was breathing hard, but he could feel himself getting stronger. Smiling to himself he stared at the sky happily. He heard footsteps neared him, until his master came into his view.


    "You''ve done well, Heaven''s chosen," the elder reached out a hand for him, pulling him up.


    "Thank you," he smiled and took his sword from his brother, "Master and brothers," he hesitated for a second before his lips spread into a grin, "Please call me Ying Yue."


    They stared at him for a moment before the eldest brother spoke up.


    "Ying Yue?" The redhead scowled, "Why would you want to be called that?"


    "Because my friend gave me that name," he smiled proudly.


    "A friend?" Xu Ling questioned incredulous, "When did you even make friends?"


    "I am glad you made a friend, Ying Yue," his master smiled at him and his smile widened.


    "Thank you master!" The blonde hugged the elder, happy that the older man approved.


    ==


    Opening an eye, he noticed the sky was dark. Having to meditate all day, he looked around slowly. His brothers, who meditated less than he did, were currently with their master. Eyes brightening, he stood up and headed over to the lake. When he arrived, Wang Li was already there watching the crescent moon.


    "Ah Li!" He called out waving to have the other boy turn to him, "Sorry! I was meditating."


    He ran over to him until he was right beside him, huffing and puffing. Grinning, he looked at his friend.


    "Is something wrong?" Ying Yue wondered because the boy in red had not greeted him.


    "Why do you need to meditate?" The raven-haired boy asked, looking at him with silver eyes.


    "Ah, I don''t know to be honest," he shrugged, "I just know I feel stronger when I do."


    He felt fingers wrapped around his wrist. Green eyes watching the concentrated look of his friend, he wondered why Wang Li was asking him this. He already told his friend he would be busy with his master and brothers, and that he would try to get to the lake before it got too dark.


    "You do feel stronger," his silver eyes looked at him.


    "Thank you," he grinned and grabbed his friend''s wrist, "Let me see if you have too."


    Concentrating, he felt the steady flow of his friend''s energy and smiled. Green eyes moved up to see a smile on Wang Li''s face.


    "When we get stronger, do you want to clash swords?" Ying Yue asked as he sat down under the tree.


    "Hm," The boy in red nodded and sat beside him, "What do you call your blade?"


    "Oh," the blonde turned to his friend, "Sword."


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "What is your sword''s name?"


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "Sword," Ying Yue repeated feeling a frown graced his face, "My sword''s name is Sword."


    He saw Wang Li stare at him with his mouth opening and closing. Then a laughter escaped the boy''s mouth, making the blonde flush with embarrassment.


    "What, what do you call yours then!" He pouted.


    "Slayer," Wang Li said after his laughter settled.


    "Slayer?" Heaven''s Conduit crossed his arms and frowned, "That sounds really cool¡­ maybe I should change mine."


    Thinking it over, why did he not give his sword a cool name! He was just so happy that his master was giving him a blade that he didn''t even think. Now the name of his sword was already etched into the blade. Letting out a defeated moan, his shoulders dropped.


    "Sword is good too, Ah Yue," his friend smiled at him.


    "No it isn''t. You just laughed at the name," he reminded and Wang Li placed a hand on his shoulder.


    "It is simple, easy to read and understand," Silver eyes softened, "Just like you, Ah Yue."


    "Really?" He tilted his head and thought about it.


    ''Well¡­ I guess¡­ since Ah Li doesn''t mind it, I shouldn''t care either,'' he nodded, ''Besides, sword is easy to remember.''


    "Thank you, Ah Li," he smiled at his friend and they shared the moment staring up at the stars.


    ==


    "Are you going to see your friend, Ying Yue?" The elder spoke up watching the blonde pack an extra meal with him.


    "Yes, is that alright, Master?" The youth questioned.


    "I feel like we should see this friend of yours, little brother," Han Mo smiled, "You always seem so excited to see him."


    "He''s my best friend!" Ying Yue grinned proudly, "He is smart and nice and cool and, and, and¡­"


    "Alright, alright," the brunette waved off with a grin, "He is special to you. Just don''t forget us, you know. We are your family, Ying Yue."


    "I won''t!" The youngest brother hugged the brunette and his master, before pausing before the redhead and bowed out of respect. He walked out and travelled down the road, through the village, toward the lake.


    Ying Yue was happy to be able to be at the lake first. Normally, Wang Li would be waiting for him, but this time he would be waiting for the boy in red. Looking at the moon, he wondered what it was that Wang Li saw. Those silver eyes would watch the moon as if he were conversating with it, like friends. He felt his lips slipping into a frown, but the bigger part of him felt happy. He knew from what Wang Li and he spoke about that they don''t have any friends, but each other. If the moon made him happy, then¡­ that was okay with him.


    "Ah Yue," the whisper of his name behind his ear made his whole body shivered, as his body jumped.


    "My apologies," the boy in red grinned reaching out to hold his arm steady, "Are you alright? Cold?" Wang Li frowned feeling the shivering of his body.


    "Don''t scare me, Ah Li," he frowned before sighing with a smile, "I brought food for us. Are you hungry?"


    The raven-haired male nodded and they sat against the tree. Ying Yue prepared the meals and looked up with a smile at his friend.


    "Wang Li," the blonde started but stopped when he saw the boy in red removing his outer robe, "What are you-"


    Warmth spread on his back and shoulders from the red robe thrown over him. Mouth opening and closing, the green-eyed boy was speechless. His face warmed up, almost a reflection of the colored robe, as he looked from his friend to the clothing on him.


    "Ah Li," Ying Yue whispered quietly as he looked at his friend from under his lashes.


    "You were shivering Ah Yue," the silver eyed boy explained concerned in his tone, "If you are not feeling well, you do not need to come."


    "No, no, I am alright," the blonde grinned at his friend, "I am warm now. Thank you."


    The truth was¡­ he wasn''t shivering because he was cold or sick, but the raven-haired boy didn''t need to know that. Smiling, Ying Yue spoke about what his master had been teaching him, how his older brother was always hard on him, and his other brother''s encouragements.


    "Ah Li," the blonde tilted his head to the side in thought, as he looked at his friend, "You never tell me about who you live with. You don''t¡­ live alone, do you?" He furrowed his brows in worry, "If you do, then¡­ then you should live with me and my brothers and my master."


    Ying Yue reached out his hands and grabbed Wang Li''s hand. The blonde felt a sadness in the pit of his stomach, like an empty drop that was unending. His eyes were watery and he bit his bottom lip to hold back his sorrow for his friend.


    "I don''t want you to be alone, Ah Li."


    His green eyes were staring at the hand tucked in between his, afraid to open them. He didn''t want Wang Li to be upset, or sad, or lonely. He just wanted him to be happy. He deserved to be.


    A hand was placed over his and he looked up to see silver eyes, soft like the evening clouds.


    "Wouldn''t that make me your brother then?" Wang Li questioned with a small smile.


    "Y¡­ yes," the blonde nodded.


    "But I don''t want to be your brother, Ah Yue."

 Chapter 47 - That Is His Robe

    His emerald eyes widened and that empty pit in his stomach now had howling monsters that were twisting and reaching for him. Pulling his hands away and he made to stand up, but Wang Li grabbed his wrist. He shook the hand off him and made to stand up once more. He couldn''t see too well from the tears in his eyes, but he knew his friend was reaching for him again. Swiping those hands away from him, he pushed himself up stumbling backwards only to fall with weight on top of him.


    Groaning quietly, he felt fingers wiped one side of his face, streaking the tears as they went.


    "I don''t mean to make you cry, Ying Yue."


    "I know," the blonde whispered and tried to offer a smile that wasn''t there.


    Turning his head away, he closed his green eyes and breathed in the rejection. He knew, somewhere in the back of his mind that Wang Li wouldn''t want to be his brother. He was not part of royalty, he did not have money, he did not have a true name like the raven-haired boy. He was just a boy who was going to be bound to the will of the Heavens, living a life of bounded loyalty and fidelity.


    "If I were to be your brother," he heard his friend say softly, "Then I would need to leave the palace, this village."


    He turned to face those moonlit eyes.


    "I''ve never left this village, Ah Yue. I cannot leave."


    Green eyes searched the face above him and saw the sadness in those eyes. He didn''t understand why his friend was unable to leave.


    "Did someone curse you to stay here? My master can break it, I am sure of it."


    "You really wish for me to be your family, Ying Yue?"


    "Yes."


    "Okay, Ah Yue. Let me try to leave with you. Maybe with you with me, I can leave."


    Ying Yue grinned as wide as he felt with such joy surrounding his heart. Wang Li wanted to be part of his family! He wanted to join him, but something was keeping him in this village. If it was a curse, he was going to tell his master to help. His master was kind and would find a way, he was sure of it.


    Both sat up and the blonde felt his skin shivered when the touch of bare fingers slipped through his robe. Those fingers were soft and warm on his chest, making his cheeks reddened. He saw Wang Li pulled away quickly, as if he was burnt from his flaming skin.


    "My apologies," the raven-haired teen looked away from him with redness against his cheeks.


    "It''s¡­ alright," the blonde tightened his robe and pulled the red one closer to his body, "Should we¡­ should we try now?"


    Both stood up and headed out of the village to the road Ying Yue normally took to go home. It was quiet on their walk. He would glance at Wang Li and when their eyes met, they would turn quickly away with the tip of their ears warmed.


    ''It felt¡­'' the blonde started thinking, but his face would flush deeply whenever he tried to finish that sentence. His hands over the place where soft fingers touched, he found himself smiling before worrying and back to smiling.


    Lost in thought, he didn''t realize Wang Li had stopped walking until he found the courage to look over. Seeing that his friend wasn''t beside him, he quickly turned around to see the raven-haired teen clutching his chest on his knees. Running back down the hill, he rushed to kneel beside his friend.


    "Are you alright? How can I help?"


    Wang Li opened his mouth to say something, all that came out was coughs of blood. Ying Yue''s eyes widened in fear and worry as he tried to help Wang Li.


    "This is all my fault. I am so sorry."


    He cried pulling his friend backwards until the silver eyed teen felt better. Back at the lake once more, he took out the red handkerchief with the golden plum blossom from his sleeve and wiped the excess blood from thin lips.


    "I''m so sorry."


    He cried tucking his head against the curve of Wang Li''s neck and wrapped his arms tightly around the waist. He was so scared that his friend was¡­ He could have died! All because he was selfish and wanted his friend to be his brother and to stay with him.


    ''So stupid. So stupid!''


    He felt his friend, his good kind friend, placed a hand to his head and the other on his back. Fingers ran through his hair and a warm palm slid up and down his back comfortingly. He wasn''t sure how long they stayed that way, but he wasn''t ready to pull away when Wang Li said he needed to return to his home.


    "Thank you, Ah Yue," fingers wiped away his tears, "For wanting me to be a part of your family."


    He felt the kiss to his forehead and his green eyes widened as his cheeks and ears flushed pink.


    When he finally made it home, his master was the only one up. He saw him sitting outside of the cabin with a tea in hand, as a lit lantern sat beside the elder. Eyes welling up with tears once more, he rushed to his elder and grabbed him into a hug.


    "Ying Yue," The calm voice soothed his fear, "What had happened for you to return so late and in tears? Did your friend do something?"


    He shook his head against his master before pulling back and wiping his tears with sleeves.


    "I hurt him. I was selfish and I¡­ he was coughing blood and I was so scared¡­ It was my fault. I don''t deserve him. I shouldn''t be his friend anymore. I will only¡­ I don''t want to¡­"


    The elder shushed him softly and placed a hand on his head.


    "How did you hurt him?"


    "He said he couldn''t leave the village, but I insisted and he¡­ he said okay because of me. Now he''s hurt."


    "Is he cursed?" The elder questioned pulling back and running his hand down his beard.


    "He didn''t say¡­ I don''t¡­ I don''t want to do that to him again. I don''t want him to be hurt. I just thought he could be part of our family. He can be my brother and he doesn''t have to be lonely anymore," Ying Yue pulled his knees to his chest, "I just want him to be happy."


    The elder watched the child and a smile was stretched on his face. Heaven chose the right person to uphold the mission for balance. A kind and gentle soul the young blonde was and he, as the master, felt honored to watch it all come to fruition.


    "Has he ever told you he was not happy with you?" He questioned the child to see those emerald eyes stare at him. When he saw the blonde shake his head, he continued, "You care for him deeply, child, and I know he does for you as well."


    "How? How would you know, master? How do you know he cares for me too?"


    He let out a quiet laugh seeing the curiosity and a spark of hope in those big green eyes.


    "That is his robe, is it not?"


    Ying Yue looked to see that he still had the red robe of his friend''s and he felt his cheeks flushed slightly. Wrapping it around him tighter, he looked innocently at his master who tapped his head with his fan.


    "Many things take time, Ying Yue," His master went to pick up his tea, "Return his robe to him tomorrow. If he no longer wishes to see you, then thank him for the times you''ve shared together."


    "I understand, master," the blonde nodded and thought about tomorrow.


    ''Wang Li¡­ if you no longer wish to be my friend¡­ I am happy we met,'' he tried to convince himself of this, but there was another part that never wanted to say those words.

 Chapter 48 - Will You Join Me

    "Why are you not focused?" The eldest brother scowled at him and he ignored it.


    Clashing swords once more, he swung but his brother was always stronger and quicker than he was. Before he knew it, he was already on the floor with a sword pointed at him.


    "You win big brother," Ying Yue offered a smile, but the eldest''s eyes narrowed at him.


    "You are distracted. Is it a girl?" The redhead frowned pulling the sword back.


    "Huh? No. Why would you think that?" He questioned standing up confused.


    "To be this distracted and defeated so easily, I assumed," Xu Ling stated crossing his arms, "What were you thinking of then?"


    He looked away from his brother''s golden eyes and kicked the grass as he thought about what to say. He loves his big brother, but the redhead can be strong in everything. He already knew the eldest didn''t approve of his friendship with Wang Li, although he never met the raven-haired teen- Ying Yue was certain they would be friends too. He also knew that his brothers and his master did not have anyone else they spoke with. It was training, meditating, eating, and training again.


    He wasn''t sure why they were training so much. From what his master told him, it was for a mission that the Heavens had given all of them and his was the most important. He still didn''t understand his mission fully, but that didn''t mean he couldn''t make friends, right? His master approved of his friendship with Wang Li, so that was all that mattered right? But he loves his big brother and his approval means a lot to him too.


    "I am worried, big brother," he said quietly, "That he would no longer be my friend."


    "You could always make new friends or make no more friends," the redhead stated logically.


    "But I don''t want to make new friends, I just want him to be my friend. I don''t want to lose him," he frowned at his brother and the eldest rolled his eyes.


    "If he cares so much for you the way you do him, then you should have no worries."


    Such a simple statement, but it made the blonde''s face brightened up. Nodding his head in agreement, he squeezed the eldest in a hug before bouncing off to retrieve the red robe.


    "Master, I will leave now to see my friend, is that alright?" He called out.


    "If you wish to leave now, you will need to carry back 4 pails of water," the elder smiled behind his fan.


    "Wha¡­ okay! I will return with them!" The blonde grinned and pressed the folded red robe against his chest as he ran down the road.


    "He did not bring the empty pails with him," the brunette laughed watching his youngest brother rush off.


    "Idiot," the redhead shook his head with a sigh.


    Down the hill and following the road, he arrived at the village.


    Ying Yue was greeting the villagers as he passed them. He was in such high spirit that he couldn''t stop the grin on his face. Seeing the stand with that elder lady from years back, he couldn''t help but head to her. She gave him good luck last time because he was able to meet Wang Li, so maybe she would give good luck once more.


    "Hello Madame," He greeted with a smile, "Do you have any new jewels?"


    "Hello there young lady," the elder smiled, "I do. Let me show you."


    He didn''t bother correcting her as his eyes skimmed through the jade hairpin, the silver necklaces, and golden rings. Humming to himself, he wondered what his friend would like. As he thought about it, he heard a voice, the voice of his special person. Face brightening, he turned smiling and ready to greet Wang Li, but it quickly wavered when he saw who he was with.


    "Aw, don''t be a prude, Ah Li," a female with blue hair chided holding an expensive fabric, "This color would be perfect for your date."


    "It isn''t a date, Ah Chu," his friend sighed looking through the fabrics with his eyes.


    "It is thoughtful of you to make her a coat," the brunette smiled softly, "We can tell how special she is to you."


    "Seriously, when will we meet her? Ah Yun is suspicious of her already. If you let her sit in it, she will surely never trust her," the blue haired female reminded as she went to eye a purple colored fabric.


    Ying Yue just drowned out everything else being said. Stepping away from the jewelry stand, he took a step toward his friend. Swallowing down the pain in his heart, he shut his eyes and shook his head. Why was he feeling this way? Wang Li was only his favorite person. He was not his lover. He was nothing more than his best friend, a person he had hurt.


    ''Is that why¡­ is that why he decided to go date someone?'' He wondered taking slow quiet steps, ''If he were with someone already¡­ he would tell me, right? He never told me about who these females are¡­ or who Ah Yun was. He doesn''t tell me anything¡­''


    Taking a deep breath, he steadied his heart and walked closer with shaky legs.


    ''If he wants to¡­ if he wants to stay friends then I will. I will do that,'' the blonde told himself and called out to his best friend.


    "Ah Li."


    All three people turned to him, but his eyes were watching the male. Silver eyes caught his emerald ones and he saw the smile on those thin lips.


    "Ah Yue, you are here early."


    "I wanted to return your robe," he said softly, "¡­ and to apologize for hurting you."


    "Hurting you?" The blue haired female questioned looking at the raven-haired male.


    "I¡­" Ying Yue tried but couldn''t find it in himself to continued. Thankfully, Wang Li always seemed to understand how he was feeling.


    "Thank you, Ah Yue," fingers wrapped around his wrist before taking the robe back, "Would you join me?"


    "Um¡­ I¡­" he wanted to spend time with Wang Li, but he didn''t want to pause on his friend''s search for something for his date. It didn''t sit right with him¡­ but¡­


    "Hello, my name is Li Hein," the brunette greeted, "This is my sister Li Chu."


    "Hello, my name is Ying Yue," he smiled.


    "Ying Yue?" The blue haired female thought for a moment, "Ah, your nightly friend. The one who gave you your name."


    "Yes," silver eyes looked mirthfully into his green ones and he smiled.


    "He spoke of you a lot, Ying Yue," Hien smiled, "I hope he treats you well."


    "Y¡­ yes. Very much. He treats me really well," the blonde stumbled through his words, receiving laughter from the others.


    He felt his cheeks warmed from the embarrassment, but when he looked at Wang Li, he couldn''t help flushing in a different feeling. Wang Li''s eyes looked sharp and yet his smile was soft, making him feel like a rabbit and his friend the fox. He felt a slow shiver run up his spine and he wrapped his arms around himself. Green eyes blinked widely when he felt the robe he had returned wrapped around him once more.


    "Red," Wang Li spoke up as he helped the blonde into his robe, "The color is red."

 Chapter 49 - Someone Special

    "You''re favorite color?" Chu smirked with a giggle, "Claiming her already?"


    "Here are a few reds," Hien giggled as well, "Which would be best?"


    "Which do you prefer?" Wang Li looked at him and he found his face looking at the black-haired male confused.


    "Wha¡­ what?" He questioned brows furrowed with a frown, "¡­ Why?"


    "He wants to make a coat for his date," Chu sighed happily, "To see Ah Li with someone, I thought would never happen while I live."


    "Oh¡­  you want me to help you pick¡­ a fabric for a coat for your¡­ date?" Ying Yue questioned as his heart dropped, but he fought to keep it up.


    "For someone special," Wang Li clarified and placed his hand on his back and the warmth of it came through the fabrics he wore, causing him to lean toward the warm touch.


    Nodding his head, he forced a smile out.


    Wang Li still wanted to be friends since he wanted his input. If he were to have a lover, they would see one another less and though he didn''t want to give up his time with his friend for another¡­ at least Wang Li would be happy. He would be happy too¡­ eventually.


    Looking at the red fabrics, he chose one that was thick and soft. The girls agreed and Wang Li looked at him with a knowing smile. What that knowing smile meant, he wasn''t sure, but it looked like he approved as well. They had went to other stalls where the girls were busy purchasing items and he stood beside his friend, watching the villagers go about.


    "You look nice in red, Ah Yue," Wang Li complimented and he turned to him with a smile.


    "Not as good as you, Ah Li," he admitted with a laugh.


    "Hm you''re right," the raven-haired male nodded and Ying Yue pushed him gently with his tongue sticking out. He soon felt a pinch at his waist, causing him to yelp. Laughing aloud, he tried to reach for Wang Li, only to have the man avoid his reaches. Determined to get back at his friend, he continued reaching for the raven-haired male. Grinning, he quickly jumped up and caught Wang Li''s back as he closed his legs around his waist.


    "Gotcha!" He laughed and he felt his friend laughing from the vibration against his chest.


    "Yes, you have."


    "Eh? Where are the girls?" He asked at the back of Wang Li''s ear.


    "Don''t worry, let us eat. They will find us there."


    He was about to get down, but the silver eyed teen held him in place. Ying Yue felt his lips stretching into a smile as he enjoyed the piggyback ride. Many of the villagers were amused and he couldn''t help waving with laughter. Once they reached the restaurant, they sat outside at the table. Ordering, the waiter walked off and Ying Yue found himself softening when he saw how relaxed his friend was.


    "Ah Li," he drank his tea, "Who is the person you are dating?"


    "What?" Wang Li placed a teaspoon of grounded ginger into his tea before his silver eyes watched him.


    "It¡­ it''s just, you didn''t tell me you were attracted to a girl. I mean, we are friends and I thought you would tell me if, you know, you liked someone," he finished with a frown as he took a sip of his tea.


    "Do you like someone, Ah Yue," his silver eyes watched green ones widen, "Would you tell me who?"


    His face heated up and Ying Yue cleared his throat. He doesn''t like any girl¡­ not like¡­


    "If I know for sure I do, then yes¡­" he mumbled looking away from his friend.


    Their meals came and he noted that Wang Li enjoyed fatty beef with wine-soaked rice and a plate of sweet buns. He ordered himself a noodle soup with mushrooms, carrots, and lemongrass.


    "I just know I care deeply for this person," he heard his friend say and he looked up to see platinum eyes on him.


    Taking a few extra seconds to swallow down his soup and the lump of emotions down his throat, he smiled over to his friend.


    "Then I wish you the best."


    "Ah Yue," his voice was soft and almost amused. Ying Yue didn''t know what was so amusing, but his heart wasn''t in it. He felt slightly sick, but would feel even more if he were to walk away from Wang Li. Thankfully the girls returned with more items and filled the space with words. Doing his best to be a good listener and keeping his mood steady, he enjoyed how they spoke with Wang Li. He could tell they were close and he didn''t need to ask to see there were respect for each other.


    ''He was never lonely¡­ yet he still¡­ he still chose to come with me when it hurts him¡­,'' he felt even worse knowing this and felt his smile dropping.


    He followed them when they stood and left. He followed when they dropped the girls off at the palace. He followed when Wang Li offered to walk him to the road out of the village. He would follow his friend anywhere and that thought scared him more than he thought it would. It was the glaring truth that he cared too deeply for his friend when the raven-haired male cared for another.


    "You have been quiet, Ying Yue," Wang Li spoke up pausing at the edge of the village.


    "I¡­ Why did you agree to come with me when you have¡­ when you have Li Chu and Li Hien? You risked your life because of me¡­ I don''t think I can ever forgive myself," he finished with a whisper.


    "Ah Yue," he looked up and felt a hand cupped his cheek, "I will always agree with you."


    "Why?" He felt his face flush from that admittance and it brought the fluttering of butterflies in his stomach.


    "You are special to me," the raven-haired male whispered softly and he felt lips on his forehead.


    Eyes closed, he enjoyed the feel of those thin lips pressed gently against his skin. Those lips left his skin tingling and he slowly opened his eyes to see sharp silver eyes watching him, searching his face as if he was a beloved treasure. The fingers on his cheeks slid behind his ears to the back of his head. Then those fingers slid down to the back of his neck and his body trembled. Gasping, he jumped forward into Wang Li''s space, as if to avoid the touch.


    "You are sensitive here," that smooth voice sounded deeper and he bit his bottom lip as the tip of his ears reddened.


    Nails ran gently down the nape again and he trembled once more with a muffled gasp.


    "Ah¡­ Ah Li, please stop," he breathed out with his hands slapping softly against the chest of his friend.


    Those fingers left his nape to run down his spine, then paused in between his shoulder blades. He felt himself pushed forward as the raven-haired male held him close.


    "Sleep well, Ah Yue."


    Smiling, he nodded against strong shoulder and pulled back. When he had turned the corner, he poked his head to see if Wang Li had left, but he saw his friend staring at the moon with a smile. Ying Yue found himself smiling as well and it went into a full-blown grin when he realized he was wearing the robe he was supposed to return.


    "What are you smiling for?" His brother called out, "You forgot to bring something back?"


    The blonde paused and tilted his head in confusion before his eyes widened. Rushing back down the road, he missed his brown-haired brother shouting out in laughter that he forgot the buckets again.

 Chapter 50 - I Am Heavens Chosen

    "Ah Li!" He said excitedly at the front of the palace, "Feel!"


    The silver eyed young man smiled and reached out, pressing his fingers against his chest. It still made him flustered, but he was getting used to it. The first time was an accident that made both avoid looking at one another, but now it was¡­ okay.


    "You''ve gotten stronger," Wang Li nodded with a smile.


    He pressed his own palm against the boy''s chest and grinned when he felt the raven-haired boy was also stronger.


    "I brought my blade if you want to spar," the blonde smiled happily.


    "You are excited today, Ah Yue," the boy in red invited him in, "Okay. Let me grab my sword."


    Eyes wide, he couldn''t help the way his eyes roamed around the vicinity. The palace was huge and filled with so many people. They would look at him, bowed lightly, and went on their way. Feeling a bit of an outcast, he stood awkwardly in place, afraid to dirty anything-even the floor.


    "Ah Yue?" Wang Li called out seeing how tense his friend was, "What is wrong?"


    "It''s just¡­ you''re like a king, right? There''s just¡­ so many people," he looked at his friend with worried green eyes.


    "Ah Yue," his friend stood before him, watching his expression, "You know, don''t you?"


    "Know what?" The blonde questioned with the tilt of his head.


    "I am Heaven''s chosen," Wang Li whispered and everything in Ying Yue grew cold.


    ''That¡­ that couldn''t be right¡­'' he stared widely at his friend, ''Why would Heaven choose two? Was what his master told him false? Maybe they made a mistake¡­ Wang Li¡­ he should be the chosen, not me. Then I must be the mistake! Yes! This is great!'' He felt his lips grin.


    "It makes sense Ah Li," he grabbed the raven-haired boy''s hands, "You will do a wonderful job."


    His friend just shook his head with a short laugh, squeezing his hands in return.


    "Ah Li," he spoke up again, "Where is your mark? Is it not the forehead?"


    ''Wasn''t that what master said?'' He wondered.


    "Oh, it is on my chest," Wang Li looked at him, "Do you want to see it?"


    ''The chest? That doesn''t sound right¡­ why the chest and not the forehead? Master, were you confused when you told us the story?'' The blonde questioned to himself and nodded to his friend.


    He watched as the man loosened his tunic and green eyes widened.


    ''Was Wang Li removing his clothes¡­ out in the open for everyone to see?!'' He felt his face flush and reached over to stop those hands, but his eyes caught the black marking on the boy''s chest. He tilted his head as he stared at the mark. It looked as though someone made intricate strokes on pale chest.


    "That is your mark? It looks¡­" he paused and looked up to see silver eyes watching him, observing his face. Clearing his throat, he pulled his friend''s robe closed and walked a bit further away.


    "Ready whenever you are!" He called out to see the smirk on Wang Li''s lips.


    "This would be the first of many, is that right, Ah Yue?" The boy in red readied his sword.


    "Here in your palace?" He questioned with glittering eyes.


    "As much as you''d like," the chosen one nodded and the blonde couldn''t fight the excitement rushing in his blood.


    ==


    He woke up to the sound of music notes in the air and the smell of incense. Sitting up, he rubbed his eyes and got off the bed. Walking out of his room, he saw his brothers and masters sitting in the main room. His master was plucking the strings of the guqin in calmness and he sat beside the brunette. Smiling to himself, he leaned against his brother''s shoulder and closed his eyes. His master only played the musical instrument when he was happy, so he wondered what the elder was happy about.


    "Master," Ying Yue spoke up once the playing receded, "Did something good happen?"


    "Hm," his master hummed with a smile and sat back. His eyes looked at the young students before him and he nodded.


    "The Jade Emperor came to visit me. He said things are coming as the prophecy stated."


    "Really?" The blonde said happily.


    "Then we will begin soon," the brunette grinned.


    He moved his eyes to catch golden ones from the redhead. The young man nodded with a small curl of his lips, and the elder felt himself relaxing even more.


    "Master," the blonde tilted his head with his big green eyes, "Can you tell us what we will be doing? You haven''t told us, yet."


    "You question our master?" The eldest brother narrowed his eyes and the blonde immediately shook his head.


    "Not at all! I just don''t know what balance I need to bring. Everyone seems happy, right? There is no problem," Ying Yue looked over at the elder with furrowed brows.


    The green haired man held up his hand and closed his warm golden eyes. Running his fingers through his beard, he smiled.


    "Of course, Ying Yue," he looked merrily at the youngest, "Let me explain then."


    "The Heavens prophesized that a child would have the mark of their chosen to bring balance to the world. Bringing happiness and peace to those who are in need and less fortunate. You, Ying Yue, will release any negative energy back to the netherworld."


    "Okay¡­ how do I do that?" The blonde frowned crossing his arms, "And¡­ what about my brothers? What does the prophecy say about them?"


    "We are to protect you," Xu Ling stated looking at his green eyes.


    "From what?" Forehead creased in confusion as Ying Yue tapped his chin.


    "Ying Yue," his master spoke up plucking the strings once more, "There will come a time when you are lost, abandoned, afraid. Your brothers will protect you as much as they can, but it is you who has the power to do this. Are you ready?"


    The blonde thought about it and looked down at his hands. He saw the small scar at the edge of his side thumb. Rubbing that mark, he felt his lips stretched out.


    ''Wang Li is also a chosen. As long as I am with him¡­ I will not be afraid, lost, or abandoned. He will protect me and I will protect him.''


    Cheeks flushing from the thought of the raven-haired teen kissing the mark, he licked his lips and looked at his master. Nodding, he smiled.


    "I am. I will do what the Heavens wish of me."

 Chapter 51 - I Find It Beautiful

    Both Wang Li and Ying Yue were relaxing in the spring, after another sparring session. He sighed relaxed as he settled deeper into the warm muscle relaxing water. Eyes closed, he replayed the moves his friend had used and thought of ways to combat them. Lost in his thoughts, he heard movements and opened his green eyes.


    Wang Li was standing up with water dripping down his hair and lean body. The blonde found himself hot, as if the area he was at was boiling. Gulping down the built up of saliva in his mouth, he slid his eyes upwards to see silver eyes facing the entrance. Mouth set and head tilted sightly, it looked as if his friend was thinking.


    "Ah Li," he spoke up, "Is something wrong?"


    Silver eyes turned to him and his friend shook his head.


    "It is nothing, Ah Yue. Are you enjoying yourself?"


    "Yes. You truly are the Chosen One, Ah Li. Look at all these amenities."


    Wang Li smiled and went to sit beside him. He smiled back, but it quickly ended up awkward when all that the raven-haired teen did was stare at him. He found himself flushing from the attention and he quickly looked away. His heart was pounding and his ears were red as he dunked himself lower, back to his friend.


    Wet fingers gathered his hair and soon he felt it soaped up. He glanced over his shoulder and saw Wang Li smiling at him.


    "All you had to do was asked," he mumbled, "Not stare at me, Ah Li."


    "Hm," Wang Li sounded, "My apologies. I got distracted."


    "By what?"


    "Your freckles."


    "I¡­ is it bad?" He frowned and his shoulders closed into himself, "I know not many have them. My brothers don''t, neither does my master¡­ and¡­ you don''t either."


    "I find it beautiful, Ah Yue."


    He blinked that in and turned to his friend. Bare chested and so close, Ying Yue thought he could taste the silver-eyed male''s breathe. He flushed even deeper and opened his mouth to say something, but he was suddenly dunked into the water. Coming up, spluttering water, he looked shocked at his friend who was laughing.


    ''Sneaky!''


    Ying Yue grabbed Wang Li''s shoulders and jumped to push him in. They played, dunking one another, until they were panting from the excess play. The blonde did not move or say anything when arms wrapped around him. He was quiet when his bare chest pressed against his friend''s. He did not react when palm ran up and down his back.


    All he did was leaned closer, sighed deeply, and relaxed.


    At least until he felt a pinch at his side.


    Then, it was back to getting back at Wang Li, his sneaky best friend.


    ==


    He stepped onto his sword and was happy feeling his blade lifted, but it quickly wavered and dropped. He let out a sigh and turned to his eldest brother and frowned. It was so easy for the redhead to accomplish everything and his brunette brother as well. Narrowing his eyes at his blade, he bent down to his knees and pointed at his blade.


    "Sword, why are you not listening to me. Have I not been good to you?"


    Han Mo laughed at him from above and moved to float beside him.


    "It is not your blade, Ah Yue. It is you. You are not focused enough, little brother."


    Ying Yue pouted and aimed his big green eyes at the brunette. He gained an eyeroll from his brother and he sighed. Stepping onto the blade again, he sent his spiritual energy to the bottom of his feet and exhaled deeply.


    His blade lifted higher, but then it fell once more and he cried out. His master caught him from falling and he looked up to see amused golden eyes.


    "Master, why am I unable to get it right? I have been practicing for so long¡­"


    "Are you distracted? Maybe you have not been as focused as you should, Ying Yue."


    He didn''t answer, but the green-haired master could see the flush on his student''s face. He sighed and brought them to the floor, frowning at the platinum blonde.


    "Ying Yue. What is keeping your mind busy?"


    "Um¡­" Green eyes looked away to the ground, "I will focus, Master."


    "Ying Yue," the fan smacked his head and he winced away.


    "I¡­ I am just thinking about my friend. He said he had to prepare for visitors."


    "You miss him," Pang Xi, the green haired master stated to see a nod, "That is normal to miss a friend, Ying Yue."


    "Master, have you missed someone? You don''t speak of others."


    Big green eyes stared at him and he glanced over at his other students to see them gathering.


    "What''s this? Master will finally tell us about his past? Finally!" Han Mo jogged over and wrapped an arm over the youngest shoulders.


    He watched the redhead join and stared at him, waiting for him to tell his stories.


    ''Eh? Why are my students so nosey?''


    "Alright," he sighed and tapped his chin with his fan, "Hm, where should I start¡­"


    He paused and looked at his students who were sitting on the floor, happily listening to him. He let out a chuckle and sat down on the grass as well. His mind went back to his past and he smiled softly.


    "I had two friends when I was younger. We did much together and there were times when I wanted to push them away, and times when I wanted to keep them safe. I ascended in my early teens and I was unable to visit them for some time. When I did¡­ things were different."


    "What do you mean, Master?" The young blonde questioned and he looked away for a moment and closed his eyes.


    "They were no longer friends. They hated one another and I¡­ could not save them."


    He let out a deep sigh and offered a smile to his students.


    "People change and we took different paths, but I cherish my friendships with them. So you asked me, Ying Yue, if I miss them, I do. Somedays I remember a place, an item, a smell that takes me back to them."


    "Are they no longer here?" Ying Yue''s voice was soft and sad.


    "They are."


    "Then why-"


    "Our paths are different now, Ying Yue. I will accept it."


    "If you could¡­ if you could speak to them again, would you?"


    Pang Xi stared at his students and smiled softly at them. He stood up and looked out toward the mountains and felt the light breeze dance across his skin. Of course, he would speak with them, but would it affect his mission from the heavens?


    "If this friend truly is important to you, Ying Yue, appreciate all the time you still have with him."


    "Then¡­ can I¡­ can I go see him?"


    He looked over at the youngest who grinned happily, while the brunette pushed the blonde lightly. He watched as the redhead huffed with a roll of his eyes. Pang Xi smiled and nodded.


    "Yes, if you can stay on your sword until the moon rises, you may go see him."


    "Buh¡­. But!"


    "Hm?" He quirked his brow, "Do you not want to see him then?"


    The blonde pursed his lips and made a wounded noise, before going to retrieve the blade. Pang Xi found himself grinning as he watched the concentration on the blonde''s face.


    ''Hm, this friend of yours is very important to you, Ying Yue.''


    The faces of his friends'' flash across his face and he froze for a moment, before sighing through his nose. He gripped his fan handle and gritted his teeth.


    ''I pray you do not lose your friends the way I have, Ying Yue.''

 Chapter 52 - I Want To Kiss You

    After their 20th spar, it happened. Ying Yue felt anxiety and worry built up like a yarn inside his stomach.


    "Ah Yue, your eyes," he felt Wang Li running his fingers over the mark on his forehead, "This mark¡­ you are chosen."


    "I¡­" he searched his friend''s face worriedly, "¡­ maybe it was a mistake. You are the chosen one from Heaven, Ah Li."


    "Ah Yue," he saw the boy smiled softly and pressed a kiss to the mark, "Your eyes are beautiful as gold or green, and this mark¡­" their foreheads pressed against one another, "... means we are bonded, does it not?"


    He placed his palms on his friend''s collarbone and let out soft laughter. They''ve grown so close that he felt stupid for even worrying. Wang Li had always supported him, and he was grateful. He was always nice to him, was patient with him, and laughed with him. His best friend¡­


    Pulling back, he smiled relieved as he looked into silver eyes.


    "Why have you hidden it?" His friend questioned.


    "I thought you would¡­" gold eyes turned away from the boy in red.


    "I would never leave you, Ah Yue," he heard his friend admit covering his hands.


    Gold eyes searched his best friend''s face before a bright smile spread across his lips. Ying Yue let out happy laughs as he leaned forward with his forehead against the young man''s shoulder.


    His heart felt so full and beating so happily. He closed his eyes and took in the scent that Wang Li always carried with him. Plum blossoms¡­ he always loved how it looked, how it smelt, and he loved it even more because of Wang Li.


    "Ah Li," he hesitated, unsure if he wanted to continue. He was nervous with the thoughts and feelings he was carrying, but the hum from his friend urged him to continue, "um¡­ I¡­"


    He pulled back, only to feel lips brushing against his cheek. They both froze in place as their breathing quickened, eyes widening. He felt his heartbeat accelerated as he pulled further back to stare at him. His golden eyes looked at Wang Li''s lips, like they were drawn to it before a flush covered his cheeks. Golden eyes investigated silver ones.


    "I¡­ should go," Ying Yue whispered, but did not move from where he was.


    "Do you¡­" Wang Li whispered squeezing his hands, "like me?"


    His ears reddened and he saw his best friend''s own cheeks heating up.


    "Ah Li," he gulped and trembled slightly, "If I say yes, would you-"


    "No," the boy in red interrupted with a smile, "I would never leave you, Ah Yue," he heard repeated and the blonde let out a relieved smile.


    "Then yes, I like you," Ying Yue nodded, "¡­ and you?"


    He watched the grin spread across his best friend''s lips with a soft laugh, "I want to kiss you."


    Face flushed covering his pretty freckles, the blonde looked down shyly.


    ''Wang Li¡­ wanted to kiss me?!'' He could feel his face flushing even more.


    He slowly nodded and saw the other chosen leaning forward. Closing his eyes, he lifted his head after a moment and felt it. Lips touched lips and he squeezed his eyes tighter. He had¡­ he had never kissed anyone before. He didn''t know what he was doing. He felt Wang Li slid his lips at an angle, slotting them perfectly with his. His fingers gripped the inside of his friend''s robe as he leaned further. Then, he felt Wang Li remove his lips and lightly lick his red ones.


    "Thank you," his friend whispered against his reddened ear. Ying Yue laughed and sighed. Wang Li¡­ he felt the same way for him then. Stomach filled with butterflies and skin tingling with heat, he closed his golden eyes with a smile.


    ==


    "Huh? What is happening?" He woke up groggily to the sounds of chatter.


    "Eh? Ying Yue hurry up and dress. Master is waiting for us," Han Mo called out.


    "Waiting for us to do what?" The blonde yawned and got dressed.


    "We''re going to the caves," the brunette reminded him, "Master said he found a perfect spot for deep meditation. He said it enhances one''s Qi and advancement."


    "Oh, for how long?" Green eyes wondered as they walked out of the cabin.


    "Five years, perhaps," Han Mo replied and Ying Yue froze.


    ''Five years! But¡­ But!'' He stared wide eyed at his master.


    "Master! Do we have to go now? Can we go tomorrow?" The youngest questioned worriedly.


    "Today is a good day to go, Ying Yue," his master fanned himself.


    "But¡­ but I didn''t get to tell my friend," he frowned, worried evident on his face.


    "This friend of yours," his master hummed, "You must truly care for him. If he cares for you, he would wait."


    "But what if he-" he tried once more, but his eldest brother tsked.


    "Stop wasting time," the redhead frowned at him, "Let''s go. Stop worrying about nonsense."


    "Ying Yue," his master touched his head, "It is time for you to learn the next stage. Be sure to focus or you will not complete your mission."


    "Yes master," he said sadly with his shoulders dropped.


    As they all headed up the mountain, he kept glancing behind him to the road that he always took- the road that led to Wang Li.


    ==


    (Both Wang Li and Ying Yue are now 18 years old~)


    He stood at the lake, Wang Li''s favorite spot to stare at the moon. It was not full tonight, but the sprinkle of stars twinkled in the water. He worried his hands wondering if the raven-haired male had forgotten. The blonde had not shown up at their nightly meeting for five years due to an unexpected move by his Master to meditate in the caves.


    ''Maybe¡­ maybe he gave me up,'' he looked down, ''I mean¡­ it had been a long time.''


    He heard footsteps nearing him and he turned, golden eyes widened.


    Wang Li.


    Long black hair was twisted in a braid with glass beads decorating it; eyes of silver as sharp and clear as the first day he saw the man. Red¡­ how he made the color look even more captivating must be a gift of the beauty before him. He saw the head tilt and he smiled.


    "Ah Li," he greeted softly, frozen with weak legs.


    "Ah Yue," his voice was deeper now, "It has been a long time."


    He nodded his blonde head and watched as the man, once the same height as he was, now towered him.


    ''He still looks beautiful,'' he thought and smiled.


    "Are you hungry?" He motioned at the meal he brought with him, "I brought your favorite."


    Silver eyes warmed and nodded. Ying Yue found himself sighing in relief. He had thought his friend would be angry with him, but it looked like he was forgiven¡­ maybe. Sitting under the tree, he pulled out the bowl of fatty beef and another of the white wined rice. Sharing the bowls, they ate quietly underneath the stars.


    "Ah Li," the blonde felt like he needed to confess, "I am sorry for leaving for so long without telling you. I¡­ my master said I needed to go meditate," he explained, "Said it would open up my channels to learn the next stage."


    "What is the next stage?"


    "To control my energy for my purpose."


    "What is your purpose?"


    "To bring balance."


    Wang Li nodded in understanding.


    "You know," he let out a soft laugh spooning the rice, "When I was meditating, I thought I heard you."


    "Oh?" The raven-haired beauty questioned chewing on a beef.


    "Yeah," he grinned, "Thought you were there with me, you know?"


    "Did you miss me that much?" The man grinned at him with a soft laugh.


    He rolled his eyes, but grinned. Finishing their meals, he packed it up as both leaned against the tree. Ying Yue missed this. He missed being here with his best friend and he missed the comfort the man brought him. He turned his head and watched the raven-haired male looking at the stars, at the moon. He found his lips curling up, enjoying his view of the man in red.


    "Ah Yue," his friend turned to him and their face were close, "I missed you too."


    "I want to kiss you," he admitted and felt his face reddened, but it was true.


    The first time they kissed¡­ he dreamt of it often. He really did like Wang Li and it scared him yet excited him at the same time. Licking his dry lips, he stared at those lips on his best friend. He saw them smile and his golden eyes looked at soft silver eyes.


    "As you wish, Ah Yue," Wang Li said softly and Ying Yue nodded.


    Heart racing and ears hot, he leaned forward and closed his eyes.


    ''I love you.''

 Chapter 53 - Does That Feel Good

    Since his return, Ying Yue came to visit Wang Li during any free time he had. He had gotten used to being at the palace and had met Yun, Wang Li''s aunt.


    "So, you are Ying Yue," she looked suspiciously at him with narrowed eyes and a frown, "What do you want with my nephew."


    "I don''t want anything," He said looking over to Wang Li, who smiled over to him.


    "That is a lie," the silver haired female stated, "Everyone wants something in life and from people. Let me ask you again. What do you want from my nephew?"


    Ying Yue looked away and down at his lap for a moment. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath before facing the older female.


    "I apologize, Madame Yun," he bowed, "You are right. I do want something from Wang Li," he moved his green eyes to silver ones, "I want him to love me, I want him to care for me, but more than that¡­ I want him to be happy."


    He saw the raven-haired male smile and he returned it, but Yun was not finished with her questions.


    "And if his happiness is not with you, what would you do then?"


    "I would be heartbroken, but¡­ I would love him from afar," he admitted looking away because if it were to come to that¡­ he really felt that what he said was true. He loves Wang Li so much that sometimes it hurts knowing he was away from the man. He heard footsteps neared him and he looked up to see the king kneeled before him. Lips touched his and he closed his eyes as fingers cradled his face.


    "I love you too, Ah Yue," the raven-haired beauty confessed and the blonde felt himself tearing up.


    "Ah Li," Ying Yue found himself laughing in happiness as he wrapped his arms around his lover, his best friend, his special person.


    "How interesting to know that both Heaven''s chosen would fall in love with one another, but the petals will fall before it truly blooms," Yun whispered watching the blossoming love before her, but felt the ominous thread between the youths.


    ''Isn''t that right, Jade Emperor?''


    Ying Yue was pulled to stand by Wang Li, who happily steered him away from his aunt and was given a tour of the palace grounds.


    "I''ve already seen the hot spring, Ah Li. Is there another reason you brought me here? More spoiling of you, my king?" He teased and felt fingers dancing over his lower back.


    "I would be more spoiled if you wash me," his lover grinned at him brightly and he felt himself flustered over how gorgeous the man was.


    "Wang Li," he chided but the grin was stretched across his face, "Then you have to wash me too."


    "It would be my pleasure," the king leaned forward and his breath ghosted the blonde''s face.


    Pushing him gently, Ying Yue felt his face warm and he looked around. He felt hands wrapped around his, entwining their fingers. Pulling him slightly, he smiled at Wang Li who brought them out of the bath toward another area. The scent of plum blossoms filled the air and he found his eyes brightened. Entering the area, he saw the plum trees so beautifully in bloom. He walked forward feeling like this was the place, his special place. Turning around, he couldn''t help how his heart filled with love seeing the man before him.


    The petals were flowing with the soft breezes and his gold eyes watched the way the petals brushed against his king''s skin, like soft caresses of fingertips.


    "You are beautiful," he heard Wang Li said gently and he shook his head.


    "No, Ah Li," he said softly unconvinced, "You are the one who is beautiful. I do not deserve you."


    Silver eyes widened before they crinkled with the smile of thin lips. He watched the man reached to pull him against strong chest. Sighing happily, he closed his eyes and listened to the heartbeat of the raven-haired beauty.


    "Ying Yue, you only think so because you love me."


    A laugh left his lips and he pulled his head back to look into moonlit eyes. Shaking his head, he grinned at his lover.


    "No, you are very beautiful my king."


    He laughed into the kiss Wang Li was giving him but yelped when he felt the pinch on his bottom. Face red with embarrassment, he pushed the red clothed male away from him. Frowning and slapping away the hands reaching for him, the blonde rubbed the small bruise he knew was forming.


    "Wang Li," he huffed upset.


    "Let me rub it for you, Ah Yue," The king said gently rubbing the blonde''s arms, "I am at fault."


    "It is your fault," Heaven''s Chosen agreed with a nod and opened his mouth to say more, but a warm hand on his butt only made him spluttered air.


    Hands tightened, clenched against the red fabric, as his face heated up feeling Wang Li''s palm smooth up toward his lower back then back down. His heart was beating fast as his entire body flushed harder when another palm was placed on his uninjured bottom. Tucking his burning face against pale neck, he shut his golden eyes and bit his lips. It felt really nice¡­ so nice that he was nuzzling like a touch starved kitten against the taller male.


    "Does that feel good, Ah Yue?"


    Ying Yue did not trust himself to speak but pressed closer to the man''s body. His wet breath was brushing against the curve of Wang Li''s neck as he tried to calm his heart. He gasped loudly when the palms squeezed.


    "Ah¡­ Ah Li," he whimpered patting the hard chest.


    The palms slid up to his waists and held him steady when lips pressed against his. Feeling his tension relaxed as the kiss continued, Ying Yue sighed opening his eyes. His lips stretched into a smile when his lover pressed his forehead against his, as if to tattoo his mark onto the other''s forehead.


    "You are the most beautiful person I know, Ah Yue."


    "That''s because you love me," the blonde joked but soon found his skin heating from his lover''s admittance.


    "Yes. I love you."


    Wrapping his arms around his best friend, he felt like he belonged there in the arms of his lover.


    "I love you too, Ah Li."

 Chapter 54 - But My Heart Loves Him

    They were in the village of the southern border waiting under the stars at night. His master stated they were called upon to rid the village of a nasty ghost. Normally his green haired master would complete these missions on his own, but ever since the Jade Emperor appeared before his master, the elder had taken his brothers and himself along.


    "I see it," Ying Yue spoke up pointing at the direction of a female hiding by the small house.


    "Looks like you win again, little brother," the brunette grinned and pulled out a thin white string.


    He looked at the female ghost and through the string shot his spiritual energy, slithering to wrap around the transparent ankles. The ghost cried out when she felt the tightening around her skin. She tried to run, only to fall forward in fear. Pushing herself up, she felt the sharp tip of a blade pressed against her forehead and froze.


    "You do not belong here," Xu Ling stated looking down his nose at her.


    "I¡­ I just¡­" She stuttered out with tears trailing down her cheeks.


    "Please miss, tell us why you have not gone to reincarnate."


    Her transparent white eyes felt warmth from the blonde, so she moved closer to him.


    "You¡­ you all can see me?" She questioned softly and the blonde nodded, "Then please, please help him. She is not good for him. Please!"


    "Who?" Ying Yue questioned and the ghost told them the name of the man and woman.


    "You want us to warn Lu Meng to not marry Fay Quin. That''s the only reason you are still here?" The brunette questioned with a quirked brow.


    "I will do as you ask once this happens, I promise."


    "Okay, may you be at peace then," the blonde smiled at her and she smiled back.


    She brought the three brothers to the house of Lu Meng''s. She saw both him and his lover greet the brothers and let them in. She followed, passing the threshold of talisman thanks to the blessings of the blonde cultivator. Staring at the man as the young cultivator spoke of her wish, the furrowed brows of the young man creased his forehead.


    "I do not know what you are speaking of," Lu Meng looked at his wife, "My wife and I have been married for a few years now. We do not know of anyone who would be angry with us."


    "A few years?" The brunette frowned looking at the female ghost.


    "A few years of delicious love," The ghost grinned and reached out quickly, aiming for the heart of the man, but felt her dark hair being pulled. Falling backwards in anger, her transparent eyes looked to see burning gold ones.


    "Disgusting," the redhead spit out and tossed her to the side.


    "You lied!" Ying Yue accused as his brothers and him stood before the couple, facing the ghost.


    "Oh child, so very innocent and na?ve," The ghost laughed as the small body of a female grew thinner and darker. She looked like a skinny tree blackened with soot.


    She rushed forward, but the strings wrapped around her body stunted her. A growl escaped her mouth and the older of the young men slammed a talisman on her throat, stopping any voice from escaping. Struggling, she watched the youngest stood before her with such sadness in his eyes.


    "May you find peace in the afterlife," Ying Yue whispered and slammed his hand onto the ghost''s forehead. He watched as the silent scream erupted through the female ghost as the skin broke. Her body glowed in a bright light before it faded, leaving behind a wisp of black smoke.


    "Well done Ah Yue," the brunette congratulated and turned to the couple who was still confused, "Do not worry. The ghost is now gone and you can live freely."


    "Ah, we thank you cultivators," Lu Meng bowed along with Fay Quin.


    After saying their goodbyes and blessing their home, Ying Yue and his brothers reported to their client-the one who called for their help. The elder thanked them and handed them a few gold coins and a bag of loquats. When they were finished, the three brothers returned to their master''s side.


    "You all did well," the green haired elder started fanning himself.


    "Thank you master," They bowed and headed back to the inn they were staying at, but Ying Yue wondered if Wang Li had to go through this too. Would his lover know that ghost was lying? Would he be disappointed in him?


    Frowning to himself, he walked over to his master.


    "Master, I didn''t know she was lying. I thought she was really worried about Lu Meng, but she just wanted to kill him. If my brothers weren''t with me¡­ He would''ve been hurt," he explained with his head hung low.


    "Ying Yue, there will be times where you must make a decision that could cost the lives of innocents, but you must make it for the betterment of all."


    He nodded as he thought about what his wise master said. Humming to himself, he glanced at the crescent moon and smiled.


    "Master, can I take Wang Li with us next time?" He grinned at the elder.


    "Wang Li?" The elder hummed as his brows punched.


    "His lover, master," Han Mo smirked, "We should meet him first before we invite him to party with us."


    "You will it''s just¡­" Ying Yue tried for an excuse but his oldest brother spoke up.


    "We embarrass you."


    "Embarrass you?!" The brunette looked insulted with a hand on his heart.


    "He is a man, is he not?" The green haired elder said slowly, "The best friend you had when you were young¡­ it is him?"


    Ying Yue felt his heart squeezing as if to rip itself apart. His big brother did not approve of his relationship, Han Mo thought it was funny, and his master¡­ if his master wasn''t on his side¡­


    He clenched his hands into fists and hardened his eyes. He loves Wang Li and there was nothing they could say to make him feel anything less. Of course, he would like his family to be happy for him, but he would be okay, he believed that. Taking a deep breath, he looked straight at his master''s warm eyes and spoke up.


    "I have known Wang Li since I was ten. He is my best friend and I would do anything for him. Yes, he is a guy and so am I, but my heart loves him and I am hurt when I don''t see him or speak to him. We are connected, master. I don''t need¡­ I don''t need you to accept us but please be respectful to him."


    The stars witnessed the first time Ying Yue, the curious and kind blonde grew up to be more than a child. The elder was worried, this was not written nor told to him the events that would play out. The blonde was to be with his brothers, warding evil away to bring peace and balance. There was nothing in the scriptures, prophecy, nor word from the Heavens about his infatuation with a man. Looking at those golden eyes burning with strength and passion, the elder found his lips curling at the ends.


    "When will we meet this boy you love?"

 Chapter 55 - Catch That Evil Tongue

    Ying Yue had not seen Wang Li the past five nights due to their heavenly duties. When they were together, they don''t talk about their duties nor do they talk about anything but themselves. So today, Ying Yue told himself he would share what he did and hoped that his lover would too. Knocking on the palace doors, he waited underneath the clear skies.


    The brunette female opened the door and smiled warmly at him.


    "Hello Ah Yue," she stepped to the side, "Here to see our king?"


    "Yes, is he here today?" He wondered and the female nodded.


    "He will be hosting the sect leader of the East tomorrow."


    "Yes! I get to see him before then," he grinned and Hien laughed softly walking toward his favorite place in the palace. Holding the boxed meal he made for Wang Li, Ying Yue found himself grinning happily. However, his smile faltered when he saw the smile on the raven haired beauty''s face, a smile saved for him only¡­ at least that was what he thought.


    The smile of his lover''s was aimed at another man, refined and elegant with ruby eyes and a killer smile. He watched as the man ran his fingers through Wang Li''s hair and ran over the mark under the left eye. He watched silver eyes softened and saw their foreheads touched. Ying Yue felt his heart stuttering as he backed away from the couple. Turning around, he saw the female looked at him worriedly, but he shook his head.


    "He is busy, I will come by when I can," he explained through strained vocals.


    "Ah Yue, I am sure-" Hien tried but the blonde shook his head.


    "If he wants to eat this, he can. If he doesn''t, then.. then it is ok too," he handed the meal basket to her and left quickly out of the large doors straight up the tree at the lake, the one Wang Li and he would lean against at night. Ying Yue sighed and looked at the lake, shining with the sunlight.


    ''He looked happy with that man,'' he thought solemnly, ''I wonder if that was his date¡­ had he given the gift to that man? Did he really love me like he said? Maybe he loves both of us?''


    He thought about how happy his best friend looked and he smiled sadly. He closed his eyes and relaxed against the trunk, breathing softly. He soon felt long fingers running through his blonde locks as they caressed his face. Golden eyes blinked opened slowly to see Wang Li staring at him softly.


    "I apologize for waking you," deep voice as gentle as a feather brushed against the tip of his nose.


    "Ah Li," he whispered sleepily, blinking the clarity in.


    Sitting up, he felt himself off centered but strong arms held him in place like his safety was important to his best friend. He breathed out a smile and watched the curved brows of worry on the raven haired male''s face.


    "We should go to the ground," the king pulled him closer and Ying Yue couldn''t help but press toward warm chest. Nodding his head, he felt himself being lifted with an arm under his legs and another holding his shoulders to hold him close. The air flew under him, slicking his blonde hair up toward the sky. When he opened his golden eyes, he saw the darkening sky. He flushed feeling his lover nuzzled against his neck and breathed him in.


    "Are you hungry, Ah Yue?" The king kissed his temple and pulled back to look into his eyes.


    "A little," he smiled and attempted to stand up, but the man in red kept him seated on his laps.


    "I will serve you, Ying Yue," he pressed a kiss on his cheek and reached behind him for the wooden container. Placing it before them, the man in red opened the lid to reveal a delicious scent of the egg drop soup. When Wang Li moved forward, the pressed of his back made the blonde follow forward. He smiled feeling the arms wrapped around him, keeping him safe.


    He watched his lover scooped up the liquid and blew to cool the soup. He felt amused at the fact his lover wanted to feed him. Opening his mouth, he felt his heart singing with the feeling of Wang Li''s attention solely on him.


    "Did you make it?" He asked after swallowing another bite.


    "I had it brought here. I didn''t want to leave you here alone. Such a pretty man alone at night," Wang Li whispered darkly making his mouth filled with sugar.


    "I can take care of myself," Ying Yue murmured and saw silver eyes narrowed into a happy crescent.


    "Is that so?" The king questioned with his lips pressed against the shell of his ear.


    A shiver ran through his body when teeth nibbled gently along the curve of his sensitive ear down to his jawline. Biting his lips, the blonde hiccupped a gasp when he felt a wet tongue slid down his neck.


    "Mph, Ah Li¡­ Ah Li," he panted turning his face to catch that evil tongue into his mouth.


    Wang Li''s tongue slid expertly along his own, as if it was caressing the rest of his insides. He wondered if the man could hear his heartbeat rushing to break out of his chest and into the king''s hands. Ying Yue felt fingers running down his waist to his hips, as he fell deeper into the kiss, the touch, the man himself. However, the earlier event returned to the forefront of his mind. The man with red eyes and his best friend looking like lovers.


    He pulled away from those delicious lips and tried to catch his breath. Moving away from the red clothed man for space, he sat on the other side of the soup bowl facing the king.


    "Wang Li," Ying Yue sighed as he stared at the egg floating in the liquid, "Did you¡­ I¡­"


    He let out a sigh, frustrated with his lack of speech. He tucked his strands behind his ear and looked into silver eyes.


    "Who was that man?"


    "Hm? What man?" Wang Li looked around with a hard look, as if someone was near them.


    "The one with red eyes and black hair," the blonde spoke quietly and the raven-haired male blinked.


    "You saw him," the taller male stated in a tone that sounded like the tension of a rope.


    "Yes."


    Ying Yue saw his lover nodded before the man tilted his head with eyes closed. Fear crawled underneath his skin seeing the man who held his heart say nothing. Swallowing down his dry throat, he stared at the spoon in the hand of the king.


    "What is it you wish to know?"


    That wasn''t what he thought he would hear, but now that Wang Li gave him the opening¡­


    "Everything, Ah Li, I want to know everything about you. I tell you about my brothers and my master, but you didn''t tell me about Hien, Chu, or even Yun until I happen to see them. And¡­ and then you don''t tell me what you do for the Heavens or why the sect leaders needed to meet with you or who that man was," the blonde let out a deep breath as those words slipped freely out of his lips, "Do you love him?"


    ''Am I anything to you?'' He didn''t add.


    Unbeknownst to him, Wang Li couldn''t help thinking about the crestfallen blonde before him.


    ''Is knowing more about me, going to help you finish your task, Ah Yue? Or will it make things harder?''

 Chapter 56 - No One Else Holds My Heart

    Ying Yue saw the spoon handed to him and he looked up to see those silver eyes not looking at him, but the moon behind him. He didn''t take the spoon nor did he say anything more. His heart was hurting and he felt frozen with thoughts that all of this was a lie, that he made all of this up and Wang Li only loved him as friends not lovers and-


    "Finish the soup, Ying Yue," the raven-haired man said clearly and softly, "Unless you want me to feed you?"


    Swallowing the lump of rejection down his throat, the blonde nodded only to hear laughter from those thin lips. Ying Yue savored this moment because who knew if he were to ever have a moment like this again. He knew that man, the date, the lover would take most of the king''s time, so he was willing to be selfish¡­ just a bit longer. Smiling at the man clad in red, he drank and ate his fill of soup until there was nothing left.


    A thumb swiped the excess juice that slipped from Ying Yue''s lips and ran over the plump mounds. Feeling cheeky, the blonde licked the pad of the thumb and grinned when Wang Li''s movement stuttered. He watched the man in red looked at him, following the way his tongue licked his lips. Grabbing the king''s hand, he held it within his own. He smiled running his fingers over the soft skin of his lover''s hand. He felt a tug on his hold and looked up to find moonlit eyes watching him warmly.


    "Ah Yue," Wang Li breathed out, "Come."


    A tug on the hold brought him to his knee. Moving around the soup bowl, he sat beside the king and stared at him.


    "Why do you think they call me king, Ah Yue?"


    "Because you are the ruler of all the sectors," Ying Yue answered, "That is why they come to speak with you, right?"


    Wang Li gave him a soft smile and ran his fingers down the side of his face, caressing his face as if he was a treasured glass.


    "You think too highly of me," his lover shook his head softly before looking back to the moon.


    "I have known since I was young what my purpose was, Ah Yue. I was five when Heavens mark showed on my forehead, just like yours."


    "But¡­ I thought it was on your chest?"


    "It was strange¡­ Everyone saw it appeared and disappeared the very next day. I thought maybe everyone was wrong, maybe I wasn''t the chosen one."


    The wind flew by and Ying Yue scooted closer to the raven-haired beauty. His lover wrapped his arm around him to pull him against his side.


    "You don''t wish to be the chosen?"


    "I wish to live my life freely, Ah Yue, don''t you?"


    He saw silver eyes investigated his golden ones, searching for the truth. The blonde frowned as he thought about an answer. Letting out a sigh, he looked straight at his best friend and spoke from his heart.


    "I do. I want to do as I wish and love who I want, but¡­ but to be chosen from the Heavens is an honor, Ah Li. We must do what is asked of us."


    Wang Li stared at him for a moment, the aura of darkness surrounded them. Ying Yue didn''t know why he felt it or why the man was emitting such sadness, but he pressed himself closer to his best friend. Silver eyes closed as the corner of those eyes tightened with stress. Ying Yue truly believed what he said and Wang Li knew the blonde was honest with his feelings. He felt the blonde''s body held him tighter and he mentally thanked his friend for anchoring him.


    Ying Yue knew nothing of what was needed of him and a selfish part of Wang Li wanted to keep it that way, so Ying Yue would continue to stay with him. The first time he met Ying Yue, he told his aunt. She was suspicious but happy for him. When he told her his best friend had a master and was training for something, the female was no longer smiling. When he told his guardian that Ying Yue was also Heaven''s chosen, his aunt''s face became ashen.


    Pulling his hand out of the soft caress of the blonde''s fingers, Wang Li looked at the moon and sighed.


    "You should not return here anymore and we should no longer meet, Ying Yue."


    "What?!" The blonde shouted and he turned his silver eyes to see watery golden eyes, large with anger.


    "No."


    "No?"


    "No, I will not stop seeing you just because¡­ just because you are with that man and you two are¡­ together¡­ we could still be friends and we could still meet. I know maybe we can''t meet a lot because you will be with him more, but¡­ but¡­ please don''t leave me."


    Ying Yue felt his heart panicked with the thought of no longer spending time with his best friend. He was willing to not be lovers with the man in red, but to not be friends ever again¡­ to forget about everything they had shared¡­ to never have it again. He couldn''t¡­ he didn''t want to think of any lifetime where that ever happened. They were connected, he believed this wholeheartedly.


    "Ying Yue-" Wang Li tried softly, but he wouldn''t¡­ he couldn''t!


    "I love you Wang Li! I will only leave you alone if you don''t love me back, but I know you love me too," he finished shouting and had crawled onto the king''s lap during his daze. Breath coming in and out in stutters, he blinked quickly to not miss the man before him, afraid that he would just disappear from him.


    "If you wish to cry, Ah Yue, then do so," the raven-haired male held his wrists as his hands shook against the man''s cheeks.


    "No," he shook his blonde locks steadying himself, "I won''t."


    His nose was twitching and his eyes watered, but he refused to let tears drop down his eyes. He cried too much, and he didn''t want Wang Li to think he was a crybaby like his brothers. He was a man, a cultivator, a chosen of the Heavens. He told himself to remember the long dark lashes bordering the moonlit eyes, silvered with a slight red hue that he could see from how close he was to his lover.


    "Breathe, Ah Yue."


    The calmness of the king''s honeyed voice softened his heart and Ying Yue''s shoulders dropped. He honestly did not want to listen to Wang Li. He wanted to stay upset until the man told him what he wanted to know and why there was so much he still did not know about his best friend, but the man clad in red always had a way of making him feel safe and calm.


    "I thank the Heavens for bringing you to me," Wang Li breathed out a smile against his wrist, placing a kiss on his pulse points. He watched as his hands were pulled down to place on the strong beating heart of the raven-haired beauty. He let out a smile, still not fully relaxed because his friend did not answer him still. Yet, just feeling the beating of his lover''s strong heart against him was calming him.


    "I cannot tell you I do not love you, Ying Yue. That would be a lie," He felt the slow warmth all over his body when his golden eyes saw the smile on those thin lips and heard the admittance of love.


    "Good," Ying Yue mumbled smiling to himself.


    "I am not dating anyone, Ah Yue. No one else holds my heart but you," Wang Li watched him with a smile, "Was it not obvious?"


    "But... I saw¡­" He could feel his ears burning across his cheeks, "I saw you with that man and¡­"


    "We are not lover."


    "You and the man? The one with red eyes?" Ying Yue asked for clarification and saw the king nodded slightly amused, "Are there¡­ anyone else besides-"


    He stopped his words feeling the coolness of his lover''s forehead against his. Closing his eyes, he leaned closer with a smile.


    "I only love you this way," Wang Li said deeply and it touched his very soul, brightening it like the shimmering stars. His entire body felt as if it was glowing like the brightest star in the sky. He could not help how his heart was moved with just simple words from his best friend.


    ''I love you so much, Ah Li.''


    "In what way?" He bit his lips, but soon sighed when he felt his lover kissed him, slotting their lips perfectly in place. Kissing Wang Li was like tasting something addicting and he would choose to drown inside on the taste. Ying Yue hummed feeling the fingers thread through his hair and scraped lightly down his-

 Chapter 57 - The Death Of Me

    -neck. Gasping with a shiver, his mouth opened for exploration from his lover''s tongue. He wrapped his arms around strong neck and pressed his hips closer. Ying Yue could kiss Wang Li all day and drown in the man''s taste, swim in his warmth, and live in his caress.


    The blonde felt warm palms slid down his side and rolled around to cup his bottoms, pressing him closer to the strong body of his lover. Letting out a moan, he moved his hips closer like waves pressing against the shore and back again. Wang Li pulled back with his bottom lip in between perfect teeth, nipping it with a groan.


    "Don''t move," his lover panted against his ear, pressing a kiss there.


    Ying Yue was in the same condition, wanting more kissing and touching. He rolled his hips forward and Wang Li squeezed his hips, teeth holding his shoulder.


    "Ying Yue," the man in red warned and he pressed his chest closer.


    "Ah Li," he whined softly and he heard a moan from the king.


    "If we continue, I won''t be able to hold back."


    The blonde paused for a moment and wondered what Wang Li meant, until he really thought about his position. He was straddling the man with his arms around the raven-haired male''s neck, bodies pressed close to one another. His face flushed red down to his chest when he felt something hard underneath him, pressing against his¡­ area.


    ''He... I...''


    "Ah Li," Ying Yue bit his lips and looked into silver eyes from under his lashes.


    "You are going to be the death of me," Wang Li groaned tapping his forehead against his, fingers wrapped behind his head.


    "I will join you," he admitted and heard the soft gasp from thin lips.


    "Ying Yue," the king laughed softly and kissed his lips, "Did I answer all your questions? You distracted me."


    "Me? You were the one who told me not to see you again," he pouted and Wang Li caught his bottom lip into a nibble. Pushing his lover back gently, he let out a laugh and licked his lips, "Did you find out why your mark moved to your chest?"


    Wang Li tucked his platinum blonde bangs behind his ear and sighed.


    "My purpose was changed," the man in red paused and observed his face, "Because of you."


    His golden eyes widened and he furrowed his brows in confusion.


    "What do you mean? What was your purpose before?"


    "To bring balance," his lover stated and he felt his mouth dried.


    "What is it now?" He whispered.


    He saw Wang Li smiled and pulled him in to nuzzle against his temple.


    "I will be busy for 40 nights, Ah Yue. Will you come see me after?" The king pulled back to face him, rubbing his cheeks gently.


    "40 nights? So long¡­" Ying Yue sighed and nodded, "Alright."


    "I will tell you more then, okay?"


    "Mm," he nodded and his lover kissed him. It was a short kiss, before those thin lips pressed again and again and again. Letting out a soft laugh, he covered those lips and grinned at the man he loves.


    "What are you doing?"


    "Giving 40 kisses, one for each day I will miss," Wang Li stated and Ying Yue couldn''t help feeling like soft pudding.


    "Okay," he said softly with a smile and sighed into the kisses.


    ''40 is not enough to satisfy me, Ah Li,'' he pressed into the kiss, hoping to make each last longer, ''¡­ but I will wait for you, always.''


    ==


    They were listening to the young man telling them of a demon in the forest, who had been luring children to their deaths. Ying Yue thought about the story of the man and hummed to himself.


    "Is something on your mind, Ying Yue?" The green haired elder questioned.


    "It''s just¡­" the blonde frowned, "You said this demon is a child that brings other children to the forest to eat. How were you able to see it if the demon only could be seen by children?"


    "I... Heavens'' chosen, I promise there is a demon in the forest," the young man bowed shaking in fear.


    "We will investigate and if the demon is there, we shall send it back. Thank you for requesting our service," Ying Yue smiled and looked over to his master who nodded in agreement.


    The young man thanked them and pointed them to where the forest holding the illusive child demon was. He searched with his eyes at the entrance of the forest, before walking in. The rush of a powerful dark energy filled their senses and he fisted his hands. Steadying himself, he called for his sword and slammed it into the ground. Sending his spiritual energy into the metal, it glowed brightly. The glow lit up the area they stood and they saw the visible black masses around the forest, thanks to their gifted eyes.


    A loud roar echoed through the forest and out came a steady stream of wolf like demons. While his brothers fought the herd to send back, his golden eyes spotted the child staring at him. Avoiding the claws reaching for him, he ran toward the child as he pressed his own talismans onto the animalistic demons. The child''s eyes grew large and ran deeper into the forest when he spotted him. Running after the child, he could feel the thickness of evil trying to suffocate him. Creating a barrier for himself, he could breathe in the purified air inside.


    "I mean no harm child. I only wish to help you so you may be reincarnated," He tried looking around as his barrier illuminated where he stood.


    "How sweet of you," a sultry light voice laughed, "And if I do not wish to reincarnate? I enjoy being a demon. It is quite fun playing with human lives."


    "I do not believe that," He continued looking around, "We all wish to live better lives. You will get bored playing with innocent people and then what?"


    "Ah, you do have a point," the voice laughed, "Then I shall play with the Heavens, since they like playing with our lives. Don''t you think that would be fair, Heavens'' Chosen?"


    Ying Yue did not reply as he hummed softly trying to pinpoint where the voice was coming from.


    "What have they done that was not fair to you? Who am I speaking to?"


    It was quiet for a moment and he stood still waiting. The sound of rustling in the leaves above him caught his attention. Glancing up, he saw something falling from the trees and stepped back. Golden eyes widened seeing the ripped leg of a child. More fell around him,, like raining limbs of the dead children. Heart clenching and stomach rolling, the stench of decay filled his nose and he did his best to hold the bile in his throat.


    He suddenly felt a sense to turn and nearly avoided the claws piercing his heart but scraped some of skin off his shoulder, even with his barrier in place. Wincing from the pain, he followed the momentum of the turn and shot out a talisman. The child-like demon froze and Ying Yue walked over to the culprit.


    "Did you kill all these children?" He questioned feeling lightheaded, pressing his hand to squeeze against his shoulder.


    "No," the demon gave him doe eyes, but Ying Yue frowned.


    Pressing his index finger on the fake child''s forehead, he wished for its peace. Once the scream left the forest and the thick scent of darkness slowly descended, he tried to walk, but his legs felt heavy. Eyes hazy and breath picking up, he pulled his leg forward only to fall. Before darkness took over him, he thought he heard Wang Li''s voice whispering his name. Why would his lover be here when the raven-haired beauty already told him he would be busy?


    ''Ah, Wang Li, even when I am away, I can''t stop thinking about you.''

 Chapter 58 - Wake Up

    "Ah Yue, wake up."


    He blinked opened his eyes with a yawn and felt fingers tracing his jawline. Heavy lids lifted slowly as he cleared the cloudiness of sleep. Those fingers slide down his jaw to the curve of his neck, leaving goose pimples in its wake.


    "Mm," he sounded parting his lips.


    The fingers touched his lips softly, almost feather light, and a scent lingered clearing his senses. When his view cleared, he saw the silver eyes clearly in his vision. He found himself brightening up like the twinkle of the star in the darken sky.


    "Ah Li!"


    He wrapped his arms around his lover and pulled the man over him, as he laid back down. Smiling from ear to ear, he relaxed into the smell and warmth of his king. Letting out a sigh, he heard the man in red laugh against his ear.


    "Do you not need to speak with your brothers and master, Ying Yue?"


    "In just a moment. I just want to hold you a little bit longer."


    Another soft laugh against his ear before a kiss was placed on his cheek. The blonde turned his face so he could press his lips onto his lovers. Sighing happily, he wished he could stay like this forever. He loved kissing Wang Li.


    Hands touched his robe and yet he felt every fiery trail where it glided. Moaning into the lips of his lover, he could feel Wang Li deepened the kiss and he whimpered. He clung on tighter, wanting to merge into his king''s skin. Just to live in his lover, he would be happy for the rest of his entire life. When their lips parted, they were panting into one another''s mouth. The heat washing over them and he smiled feeling their foreheads pressed together.


    "Wake up, Ying Yue."


    "What?" He questioned feeling tired suddenly as his eyes felt heavy. How did he get so sleepy?


    "Wake up," Wang Li''s voice faded and he closed his eyes.


    Opening his golden eyes once more, he blinked confused and turned to the side.


    ''Was Wang Li not here?'' He wondered, but quickly realized it was a dream.


    "How do you feel, Ying Yue?" The voice of his master entered his ears, "You used too much of your powers."


    "I''m okay," he sat up and rubbed his eyes, "I apologize."


    "You shouldn''t have left on your own," the eldest brother chided, "You could''ve died and the balance would have shifted."


    "But I had to stop the demon," the blonde stated looking at the redhead with an acceptance, "If it meant for me to die, then at least the balance would last a bit longer for the Heavens to find another."


    It was quiet and he glanced at his brothers and his master. He gritted his teeth and fisted his hands. He understood that much at least. Bringing balance was important and if it meant his death, than he would willingly sacrifice himself.


    "If the Heavens are to replace you, Ying Yue, it would take a long time. Evil would take over for quite sometime. The innocents will not survive for another of Heaven''s chosen," the green haired elder stated.


    "No, there already is another one," Ying Yue grinned looking at his twiddling thumbs as his cheeks reddened.


    "Another one? Who?" His brunette brother questioned.


    Ying Yue bit his bottom lip as the smile stretched wider on his face, "Wang Li is also chosen."


    His brothers and his master stared at one another for a moment, but the blonde did not notice.


    "I mean, it makes sense. He is really good to people, the villagers really like him, and he''s really handsome, strong, and his eyes are very pretty, and his lips¡­" Ying Yue touched his burning cheeks, "soft¡­ very soft¡­"


    "Stop."


    Ying Yue looked over at his master with widened eyes, dropping his hand from his face. His master''s golden eyes narrowed and his lips were straight. He never saw the elder looked so upset before. Worried filled his heart and he sat up to attention.


    "Wang Li is Heavens Chosen as well," the elder repeated, "Does he have the mark?"


    "He," the blonde gulped, "He said he had the mark on his forehead but it was moved."


    "Moved? Why?"


    "Because¡­ because of me," the blonde said softly.


    The green haired male stood up suddenly, startling his students. His mind was in confusion from what the Heavens told him, what the Jade Emperor told him. Ying Yue was the Heavens Chosen and would bring balance. Then¡­ what about Wang Li?


    ''No¡­'' his eyes widened and he turned to the blonde.


    "Wang Li is the one from the palace. The place I told you to avoid. Is that right?" He asked slowly and the blonde nodded looking at him innocently.


    "I see," The elder closed his eyes for a moment and sighed, "You cannot see him any longer."


    The blonde pouted and shook his head stubbornly.


    "Did he not tell you?" His master looked at him with saddened eyes, "You were chosen to kill him."


    Ying Yue felt his entire world turn bleak as the blood dropped from his face. His heart was hurting. His master never lied to them and this¡­ he¡­ he couldn''t do it. Wang Li¡­ He must have known what he was destined to do then.


    ''You are the death of me,'' Wang Li whispered to him under the stars and he felt bile rising from his throat.


    ''You should not return here.''


    ''Do you know why they call me king?''


    ''You think too highly of me.''


    ''I cannot leave, Ah Yue.''


    "Why? Why should I kill him? I don''t understand," He cried.


    "He is the Ghost King, Ying Yue," His master whispered and sat at the edge of the bed, "He is the ruler of the dead and the demons that lurks."


    Covering his face with his hands, Ying Yue cried loudly feeling his heart breaking.


    ''Wang Li. Why didn''t you tell me? Why¡­''

 Chapter 59 - Prepare Ourselves

    Ever since he found out about Wang Li, Ying Yue felt as though he was in a mind-numbing haze. Closing his eyes only brought the handsome face of his lover with those precious smiles. Meditating only clearly showed in his mind of the interactions with the Ghost King. Speaking with the villagers and assisting in the missions were only small distractions from the hole in his heart.


    ''Ten more days and I will learn everything from you, Wang Li,'' he closed his eyes and forced himself not to cry again. His body was exhausted but his mind¡­ there are too much going on in there, thoughts moving so fast.


    "We are needed," his eldest brother opened his door and stared at him for a moment. Mouth opening before closing, the red head crossed his arms.


    "I am ready brother," he offered a smile and got off the floor to head out of the door. His brother grabbed his arm and he took a deep breath. He knew the redhead was worried, they all were, but he would be okay. His master had been in meditation longer and his brunette brother worried the most. His eldest brother, he let out a smile, was the strength of the family.


    "Thank you, brother. Let us protect the innocents," he held onto his brother''s arm for a moment before pulling away. Greeting the others who were waiting, he smiled and nodded.


    It was going to be another day where they protected the innocents from evil, demons, and ghosts. He was happy when the villagers and sometimes the upper class sighed in relief because they were able to stop anymore harm. Ying Yue could feel a light shined within himself when he saw the smiles on their faces, the thanks they gave, and the joy of happiness from the victims.


    "Thank you, Heavens Chosen," the farmer bowed, "Please, is there anything you need? You may take anything I own as gratitude."


    "Oh, the thought of you safe is all I need," the blonde smiled and the farmer continued to thank them as they were heading back under the dark sky. His golden eyes looked to the sky to see the sun was slowly rising, bringing a sliver of light over the mountains. Smiling, he turned and caught a shadow on the roof. Turning to it, the shadow moved quickly and Ying Yue could feel the darkness that lingered. Eyes widening, he took a sharp breath.


    ''That shadow¡­ whoever he was¡­ it was him!'' He ran forward toward where the shadow disappeared. He could hear his brothers and master calling out to him.


    "There was a shadow! The strong odor of evil, it was him this whole time!" He shouted eyeing the sliver of red ribbon.


    They jumped on the roofs and tried to follow the shadow, but it was still dark, hiding the enemy within. Taking out a blank talisman, he bit his thumb and wrote on it. A bright glow surrounded the paper, illuminating the area. His golden eyes cautiously looked around as he continued moving forward. Suddenly, he saw something shooting toward him, sharp as a blade. The eldest brother blocked the attack and went forward to continue the fight against the shadowed blob.


    Ying Yue watched the blob weaved and turned unnaturally, while his brother tried to land a hit. Looking over at Han Mo, he nodded and they joined the eldest in the fight. The brunette tossed a few talismans and whispered an incantation, but the shadow continued to attack with no stop. Avoiding, dodging, attacking, this kept going until all three were able to bind the shadow.


    ''Finally!'' Ying Yue let out a breath and turned to his master, but his golden eyes widened, ''No¡­''


    "You know, these students of yours are quite stupid," the man with red eyes grinned holding onto the green-haired man under his jaw from behind.


    "Master!" They shouted and watched as the elder narrowed his eyes at them, stopping their advancement.


    "Ye Wu," the elder said calmly, "It had been a long time."


    "Pleasantries? Cute," the red eyed demon grinned and leaned pressing his lips to the back of their master''s ear, "Those demons and ghosts are just the start, Pang Xi, do you think your little warriors will win?"


    Ye Wu can feel his prey swallow as the Adam''s apple bobbed. Letting out a deep laugh, he moved his hand down to grasp the long neck.


    "What do you want?" The green-haired man whispered harshly with a scowl on those lips.


    "Is it not obvious?" The demon laughed tightening his hold, "For my clan to live amongst the living once more, and¡­" he looked at the blonde who held a troubled face. Leaning to whisper, Ye Wu finished his sentence, "for his death."


    Golden eyes widened and Pang Xi twisted out of the demon''s hold, but the red eyed monster laughed shaking his index finger.


    "Uh huh, that blob holds poison, Ah Xi, you don''t want your children to die, do you?"


    "You wish for the death of Heavens chosen, he will not affect your wish, but another would," he stared at the demon to see Ye Wu hummed interested.


    "Who might that be?"


    "Heaven chose another far more powerful, one who reigns over you."


    "Interesting," the demon sounded amused and he narrowed his golden eyes, "So you know. Did the bastard Jade Emperor finally tell you? Here I thought he was going to hide the truth from you and let you be the slave that you are."


    "Ye Wu!" Pang Xi shouted with a scowl, "How did you know? He would not have-"


    "So foolish," the demon sighed with a smile, "Sweet little Pang Xi, do you feel like a failure?"


    His fingers itched to wrap around the throat of the monster and he ground his teeth. Knuckles white from fisting his hands too tight, he narrowed his eyes at the demon.


    "Let them go," he stated and the demon tilted his head with a sly smirk.


    "A favor for a favor, dear."


    "What do you want?"


    The demon thought about it and looked at him from his head to his toe. His skin prickled up and he bit his tongue from shouting at Ye Wu. The man grinned, as if knowing his thoughts.


    "Plea to me and I will let your precious children go."


    The blood on his face drained and he could hear his students struggling to remove themselves, as they shouted at him to not do as the demon asked. Shutting his eyes, Pang Xi fell to his knees. His jaws were clenched tightly and he forced his tensed body to bow. Forehead pressed to the floor before the demon, he flushed with anger.


    "Please, Ye Wu, let them go."


    He heard the demon laughed loudly and felt fingers pulling his hair, tugging it hard. Head snapping back, he couldn''t growl because his lips were covered with another. Eyes widened so wide they could fall off, Pang Xi gathered his energy into his palm and was about to push the demon off him, but the man already pulled away grinning.


    "Ye Wu! You disgusting-"


    "It is done," the red eye demon licked his lips and left into the shadows. Growling, he attempted to run after the monster, but the sound of groans from behind him caught his attention. Turning to see his students, they were having trouble standing. Quickly touching their foreheads to rid the haze, each of the brothers blinked in the clarity.


    "Who was that demon?" The brunette rubbed his temples, "He''s pretty strong, the strongest we''ve faced so far."


    "No, Han Mo," he shook his green hair and looked at the direction of where the monster disappeared with a frown, "He is by far the strongest enemy we will ever face."


    "Why did he just leave? Why did he not hurt any of us?" Ying Yue questioned quietly.


    "Who knows what goes on in that monster''s head!" He shouted and tapped his forehead with his fan, "My apologies. He likes playing games. We must prepare ourselves."


    "What preparation are we preparing for, master?" The oldest of the brothers questioned and he sighed.


    "For everything."

 Chapter 60 - I Want To See Him

    Since meeting Ye Wu, their master were harder on them in their trainings, longer mediations, and shorter mealtime. Though it was tiring, Ying Yue welcomed it. They were great distractions from the truth. Ye Wu was that red eyed man with Wang Li in the palace. Ye Wu was a demon. Wang Li was the Ghost King. Ye Wu and Wang Li¡­


    ''I am not dating anyone, Ah Yue. No one else holds my heart but you.''


    That was what his lover told him and he¡­ he felt in his heart that was the truth. The Ghost King had never lied to him. Avoiding the question? Yes, but lied? No. Looking at the moon, he felt his lips stretched and held tight to the feeling of Wang Li''s love.


    ''I thank the Heavens for bringing you to me¡­ I cannot tell you I do not love you, Ying Yue. That would be a lie.''


    "I love you too, Ah Li. I hope you are safe and¡­ ready to tell me the truth. All of it¡­" Ying Yue whispered into the cool air and closed his eyes.


    "Ying Yue," his master called out upset with a frown, "Come. Your body needs to adapt to poisons."


    "But they taste so nasty," he complained with a sigh as he headed over to his elder.


    He felt a tap from the fan on his head and he winced, drinking the liquid before throwing it up a few minutes later.


    Days went by quickly and then¡­


    One more day and Wang Li would be free to meet with him once more.


    Glancing at his family from under his lashes, he drank his tea and waited. He knew since the red eyes demon revealed himself, his master had been pushing them harder, but not once had his master told them how he knew the demon. He felt a slow smile spread on his lips remembering the demon had kissed his master.


    ''We are not lovers.''


    He let out a giggle and caught the attention of his family members. Smiling at them, he sipped his tea quietly.


    "What is so funny? Tell me little brother. I want to laugh too," the brunette looked at him interested.


    "It''s just¡­" he grinned and laughed softly, "I just never saw master kiss anyone before."


    The sound of wood breaking made their eyes looked to the sound. The elder had his eyes closed and his brows were twitching. Clearing his throat, the green haired male looked at his hand to see his fan broken from his strength. Letting out a sigh, he looked over to the blonde who looked amused but more worried.


    "Ying Yue," the elder rubbed his lips, "I did not kiss that monster."


    "So the demon closed your eyes while his mouth was on yours," the brunette grinned widely.


    "Han Mo," their master warned.


    "I mean, it looked like you really li- ow!"


    The middle brother rubbed his head as the eldest brother glared at him. Turning his golden eyes to the elder, his straight voice questioned, "Enough teasing. This demon knew who you are, master. From our trainings, do you feel we are ready to face him?"


    "To be truly honest, I am not sure," their master sighed and rubbed his chin, "I will go to the mountains tomorrow morning. I hope the Heavens will be truthful with me in what their hopes are in all this."


    The elder looked over at the blonde and saw the blonde''s shoulders close in on himself. He felt terrible knowing that Ying Yue''s first love would be the man who possessed true evil. The Ghost King would be the only one who could face Ye Wu, but in turn¡­ the young blonde would be the only one to stop Wang Li.


    "Remember what I told you, Ying Yue. Do not see him again until I return."


    He looked away from his master and stared at his tea. He didn''t reply to his elder because he wasn''t sure if he could agree. The green haired man could be in the mountains for days, months, even years! He wouldn''t be able to wait that long to see his lover.


    ''I''m sorry, master. I don''t think I can wait any longer.''


    ==


    Saying goodbye to his master was bittersweet. He hoped the elder returned with good news and that he did not need to kill Wang Li to keep the balance. His brothers and himself watched as the last strand of green disappeared. Returning to their cabin, he sat on the grass overlooking the cliff with a sigh. Ying Yue looked over to his brothers and saw them talking to one another.


    He would be able to see Wang Li and learn more about¡­ everything. Nodding to himself, he walked toward his brothers and cleared his throat.


    "Brothers, I will go see Wang Li."


    "No," the redhead automatically said.


    "Wang Li told me he would answer all my questions. Please, big brother. We can learn more about the prophecy and¡­ and who that demon was."


    "You only wish to see him. Master said-"


    "Yes. You are right. I want to see him, but I also want to know the full truth. Master might be gone for a long time and if the red eyed demon is going around hurting others, we need to know how to stop him. Wang Li is our best chance at stopping him."


    "Well, he has a point, brother," the brunette crossed his arms and sighed.


    "Then we will go as well," the redhead stated and stood tall.


    Ying Yue hesitated for a moment before nodding his head.


    "Let us go brothers."


    With that in mind, they now stood under the bright sky in front of the palace. Taking a deep breath, Ying Yue knocked on the door and waited. The door opened a few moments later.


    "Ying Yue, right?" The blue-haired female looked to his brothers, "Who are they?"


    "Hello," he smiled at her, "They are my brothers, Zhang Xu Ling and Zhang Han Mo. Is¡­ is Wang Li free?"


    Her purple eyes looked from the redhead to the brunette and back to him.


    "So you are a Zhang too?"


    "I¡­ never really had a name¡­" He said softly and purple eyes widened.


    Slowly stepping back, he walked through the palace and smiled. They followed the blue haired female through the courtyard and sat down at the table. A white-haired male walked to them with tea and teacups. He set them down and served them, before standing back to head to the kitchen.


    "Thank you," the brunette called out with a smile, "Who is that Ying Yue?"


    "I don''t remember seeing him," the blonde frowned, "He must be new."


    His middle brother and him drank the tea, but the redhead refused. Ying Yue understood why; the man was wary and on edge. Letting out a sigh, he wondered where his lover was. Maybe the raven-haired man was still busy with something? If that was true, why would Chu bring them here?


    Just as his brows furrowed, they lifted as his golden eyes sparkled. Wang Li was here, before him in all his beauty. His silver eyes warmed and his lips curled into a smile. Ying Yue got up quickly and ran to the king, wrapping his arms around his lover.


    "I missed you," he said quietly and sighed contently when the warm hand cupped his cheek.


    "I missed you too," the Ghost King whispered and kissed his lips.


    Oh, how he missed this man. Pulling his lover closer, he deepened the kiss trying to taste everything.


    A loud clearing of the throat was heard and the blonde pulled back flushing. Panting, he felt lips on his forehead and he swooned. He just wanted to watch and stare at Wang Li all day, but he also knew the main reason he was here was for answers. Taking a deep breath, he held his lover''s hand and turned to his brothers.


    "Ah Li, these are my brothers, Xu Ling and Han Mo."


    "Pleasure to meet you all," Wang Li smiled and bowed.


    "Like wise, Ghost King," the redhead did not bow to the raven-haired male, as his golden eyes burned.


    The smile on his king''s face dropped and there was a chill in the air.


    ''Ah Li¡­''

 Chapter 61 - My Purpose Is You

    Ying Yue felt his lover squeezed his hand and stood straight with his face set. He squeezed back and smiled when silver eyes looked to him. Bringing the king to sit beside him, he looked across the table at both his brothers.


    "It is nice to finally meet the man our little brother had been gushing over," the brunette grinned as the blonde flushed, "So tell me, how annoying is he?"


    "Ah Mo!" He frowned, but felt fingers running through his hair and he looked over to his lover.


    "Ah Yue is very kind to me, from the first time we met to now, I am honored to be in his heart."


    Wang Li finished and ran his thumb over his cheek and Ying Yue looked at him with so much love.


    "That is enough," the redhead stated with a glare, "What is your purpose, Ghost King?"


    His body followed the removal of his lover''s hand and found his face pressed to the shoulder of his king''s. Embarrassed at himself, he pulled away with a shy smile. He received a soft smile from Wang Li, but it quickly straightened when he faced his eldest brother.


    "My purpose is to create chaos."


    "You mean deaths."


    Wang Li did not reply, but the narrowing of his silver eyes made fear trickled into his bones. Ying Yue grabbed his king''s hand and spoke up.


    "Do you have to do it? Create chaos?"


    "Someone told me being chosen is an honor. We must do what Heavens ask of us."


    Ying Yue felt the blood in his face dropped. Those words were his own and though he still felt that way¡­ a part of him wish he never spoken those words aloud.


    "Why? If you create chaos, then-" the brunette questioned but stopped immediately with his eyes widened.


    "What is it?" Ying Yue questioned leaning forward.


    "Ah Yue," his lover whispered and his golden eyes looked to silver ones, "For you, I must create chaos and death."


    He shook his head and held tighter to the hand in his. His heart was beating faster as he thought about what Wang Li had to do, what he had to sacrifice for him.


    "No, no, there is no need to do that. There is¡­ there are already problems in our world. You don''t need to do anything."


    "You don''t understand," he felt fingers touched his face as gently as feathers on his skin.


    "Please, Ah Li," he murmured fingers shaking against his lover''s hand.


    "My purpose, Ah Yue, is you."


    The blonde shut his eyes and pressed his face against Wang Li''s chest.


    "That should sound romantic."


    "It is true."


    "Your purpose is to create chaos and my brother''s is to bring balance," the brunette spoke up sadly, "Does that not mean¡­"


    It was quiet for a moment and Ying Yue buried himself closer to his lover. He felt warm hands holding him closer. Hands moved up and down his back to comfort him, but he felt his entire body tensed. Even the sound of Wang Li''s heart normally calmed him, but it was not helping. He had to find a way. He was not going to ever kill the raven-haired man. He was not going to let his best friend create chaos and death, something the man did not want to do!


    ''There had to be a way,'' he told himself, ''There has to be¡­''


    "I got it!" He pulled back as if enlightened, "I got it Wang Li! I figured it out!"


    "Calm down and tell us what you speak of," the eldest brother stated with his arms crossed.


    "I will live here with Wang Li."


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "No." "What?!" His brothers shouted at the same time.


    "Don''t be stupid. You cannot stay here."


    Xu Ling was looking at him like he would melt where he sat, but Ying Yue believed this was the best decision.


    "Wang Li has to create chaos and death, right? Which means he is the chaos and death. Everything would be balanced if I stay with him, keep him balanced. Right, Ah Li?" He turned his golden eyes to see many mixes of emotions crossed those silver eyes.


    "Ah Yue," his lover murmured softly, "Are you sure this is your wish?"


    "Yes," he nodded without hesitation.


    "You will truly be the death of me," Wang Li said softly, "You should return, Ah Yue."


    "Don''t. Don''t say that again."


    "You met him, Ying Yue. You met Ye Wu."


    He pursed his lips and looked away as his brothers spoke up.


    "You already know who that demon was?" Xu Ling seethed, "Why have you not spoken up!"


    "Ah Yue, big brother is right. Why didn''t you tell us?" The brunette questioned with a frown.


    "I¡­" the blonde started and stopped shaking his head, "I know you all will run straight here and¡­"


    "And what?! Kill your lover? Burn the palace? Who do you think we are!" The redhead shouted standing and shaking with anger.


    He could not believe his stupid, foolish, young brother would hold something like this from them. If they would have known earlier, their master would be informed and think of a plan to stop the red eyed demon. He could feel a headache pounding against his skull from the dumb decisions the blonde was making.


    "This demon is dangerous. Are you the one giving him permission to kill?" Xu Ling questioned angrily.


    "Yes."


    Xu Ling''s golden eyes saw the straight face of the Ghost King and his blood boiled hotter. There were no emotions, no flicker of guilt within the man''s eyes that told the redhead there were regret. Gritting his teeth, he narrowed his eyes as his nostrils flared.


    "We are leaving," he reached over to grab the blonde''s arm, but the Ghost King blocked his reach.


    "If Ying Yue wishes to stay, I welcome him in my palace."


    "You have no say!"


    "Neither do you!"


    A chill as cold as the frozen lake swept over them and Ying Yue shivered. He looked over to Wang Li to see how those warm silver eyes were clearing, almost hazy over the contrasting red that slowly revealed. Red¡­ just like the demon''s and Ying Yue felt himself gasp.


    "I will stay," he spoke up and squeezed the arm of his lover, "I will stay, Ah Li. I will stay."


    The chill washed away and the warmth returned to those silver eyes. He smiled at him and turned to his brothers. They could tell there was a change; they were aware of it by the way they looked at him.


    "I will stay until master returns, okay? I know that this is the right choice, I believe it."


    "You are na?ve and stupid," the redhead gritted out.


    "Maybe I am," the blonde smiled, "... but Wang Li isn''t. Doesn''t that mean we are chosen perfectly as Heaven''s chosen?"


    The incredulous look on his eldest brother''s face made him wince internally. He watched as the redhead opened his mouth and closed it, speechless to how his thoughts worked. He heard a loud sigh and looked to the brunette. His middle brother was rubbing his face and looked at the sky.


    "Ah Yue, if you were to stay, then¡­"

 Chapter 62 - I Will Welcome It

    "-there is nothing we can do," he smiled defeated but his eyes lit up as the white haired male refilled their teapot.


    "It is getting late. Would you be okay, my king, if we stay in your palace for the night?"


    "We welcome your stay," Wang Li nodded and looked over to his servants. They nodded to him and went to prepare three rooms. His silver eyes looked coldly at the redhead but lessened when glancing at the brunette. As they followed the servants to their rooms, Ying Yue asked to speak with him alone. A glare and a scowl were upon the oldest brother, but the Ghost King did not care. Turning to his lover, he kissed him deeply and long. When he pulled back, the blonde was breathing deeply and looking at him with dilated pupils.


    "Come," he held those tender hands and pulled his lover away, ignoring the burning hole to the back of his head from the redhead.


    The brunette watched the Ghost King and his young brother walked off holding hands. He can tell Ying Yue was in love with the king and Wang Li cared deeply for the blonde. However, this whole thing would only end in disaster, he could feel it in his bones. Pulling his hot-headed brother into one of the rooms, he thanked the ladies with a wink and closed the door.


    "Brother, just let it be."


    "What is wrong with you?! Do you not understand that this is a terrible idea! Master would be upset," the redhead crossed his arms with narrowed eyes and a scowl.


    "I know but hear me out brother. You saw the way they look at one another, they are in love. If Ying Yue stays here, it would keep the evil within the Ghost King at bay. Eventually Ah Yue will find out more about the demon, find out his weakness and we will be able to defeat the monster. If Wang Li were to do anything that Ah Yue does not approve of, he wouldn''t."


    Han Mo finished and his brother pursed his lips, before sighing and sitting on the bed.


    "You have a point, brother, but how do you know he would not succumb to what the Ghost King wants? He is a rabbit in the hands of a wolf."


    "That¡­ brought some interesting images to my head¡­"


    "Stop thinking with your manhood!"


    "Yes, yes, alright," he sighed and placed his fingers around his chin, "Even if he were to do as the king asked, Ying Yue is pure and he will do what is right. We must trust him brother."


    "Fine," Xu Ling uncrossed his arms, "You will be the one to tell how foolish our brother is. Now go, leave me in peace."


    He grinned and bid his brother goodnight. Outside, he went over to a servant and smiled with his winning smile.


    "Hello miss."


    "Hello," the female flushed bowing to him.


    "May I have tea bought to my room?" He asked warmly and the female nodded, "Thank you. I''d like the man with white hair to bring it to me."


    "Ah Shen?" The female blinked at him.


    "Oh, that is his name? Yes, please have Ah Shen bring me my tea. I will be waiting," he grabbed her hand and pressed his lips to her knuckles, "How wonderful of me to be blessed by a kind beautiful woman as you."


    He pulled away back to his room and waited. When the knock came, he grinned and opened the door. The white-haired young man bowed to him, handing him the tea tray.


    "Please, set it on the table for me, Ah Shen."


    He smiled his usual smile that made people swoon, but the man stared at him with eyes slightly narrowed. His golden eyes watched the man step in and set the tray down.


    "Join me, Ah Shen. I''d like to know more about you." He offered and hoped the attractive male agreed, but the shake of white light hair dashed his wished aside. Letting out a nervous laugh, he reached out to hold the man''s bicep as the pretty man attempted to leave.


    "Ah Shen, I am the king''s guest. You wouldn''t want me to tell him you treated me terribly, do you?"


    Han Mo watched those purple eyes widened before they narrowed dangerously at him.


    "To stoop that low, disgusting."


    That was the first time he heard the pretty man''s voice, tangled with anger at him.


    "No, I wouldn''t. I just want company, please Ah Shen. Just a few moments of your time," the brunette tried again, and the man went to sit down. He grinned and sat beside the white-haired male, watching as he poured tea. He felt giddy and looked at the man beside him. Purple eyes were watching him warily and he couldn''t help the soft laugh escaping his lips.


    ''Now¡­ what should I ask?''


    ==


    Ying Yue sighed happily with his eyes closed. Hands moved up and down his back, calming him as lips trailed along the curve of his neck. He pressed his body closer and lips pressed against his. He missed his lover''s lips, his hands, his plum blossom smell, and everything about him. When he was away from Wang Li, he felt as if there is a missing piece inside his heart, eating itself every second his lover was gone. However, when he is with his king, he felt so full of energy and life, a bountiful of colors.


    "Ah Li," he whispered and parted his eyes, looking into silver ones half-lidded. Licking his plump lips, he moved his hands up and down his lover''s chest.


    "Hmm?"


    "I love you."


    Wang Li smiled brilliantly and Ying Yue couldn''t help but kiss those lips again. His hair dropped, falling over his shoulder and laid on his lover''s face. He felt hands trailed down to his hips and his body flushed. A soft smack against his bum made him yelped against his lover''s mouth. Pulling back, he looked at mirthful silver eyes.


    "If you continue, Ah Yue, I would not be able to stop."


    The blonde smiled shyly and lied back down beside his lover.


    "Are you sure, Ying Yue. Are you sure you want to stay here?"


    "Yes."


    "Your master would be upset."


    "I will return when he comes back from the mountains."


    "Why is he there?" Wang Li questioned, running his fingers across his cheek.


    "The Heavens were not honest with him. Ye Wu¡­ he told my master that he knew that I was also Heavens chosen and¡­ I think¡­ I think he is there for me because he knows that, that I love you. The Ghost King¡­ the man I am supposed to kill¡­"


    He stopped his words and stared with doe liked eyes at his lover. Wang Li breathed out a smile and kissed his forehead, the tip of his nose, and finished on his lips.


    "I will welcome it."


    "Stop. Don''t say that," he shook his head, "You knew right? You knew what they wanted me to do, but you still¡­ you still want me here with you."


    "I knew later."


    "When?"


    "When you were mediating in the mountains."


    His forehead creased and he searched the king''s face.


    "I went to the lake every night and waited for you, readying myself to tell you not to return. The day you were there¡­ I accepted it."


    Wang Li reached for the blonde''s hands and pressed them against his heart, "You already have my heart, Ah Yue. You may do whatever you wish with it."


    He laughed and laughed as he tucked his face against his lover.


    "And you have mine," he said through his laugh, "We are hopeless."


    Hands cupped his face and before lips touched them, he felt breathless when Wang Li said, "No, Ying Yue. We are hopeful."


    ==


    Ying Yue stood beside Wang Li as they waited for his middle brother to arrive.


    "How did you sleep, big brother?" He asked with a nervous smile.


    "Fine."


    "I am glad."


    The blonde tucked closer to his lover. He could feel the tension in the air and interlocked his fingers with the king''s. Xu Ling was much harder on him than the brunette. He knew the redhead expected a lot from him being a chosen, but¡­ sometime the words he would use were harsh. His ears perked up when his middle brother headed to the front of the palace. The brunette was yawning and when he noticed them, he waved happily.


    "Apologies, I slept later than I should," Han Mo grinned goofily and glanced in the direction of the kitchen, before turning back with a soft laugh.


    "Did you sleep well, brother?" Ying Yue asked interested in why his brother was so relaxed but tired.


    "Fantastically. Thank you, my king," the brunette bowed to the raven-haired male and turned to redhead, "Eh, what''s wrong with you?"

 Chapter 63 - No Kissing In Public

    The glare from the Xu Ling made Han Mo shut his lips. Those narrowed golden eyes turned to him and he squeezed his lover''s hand. He saw his older brother pursed his lips, before turning and walking out with a huff.


    "Take good care of him," Han Mo hugged the blonde and waved them goodbye.


    Ying Yue furrowed his brows in worry. This was the first time he ever lived apart from his family. To be truthful, he was surprised his brothers, especially the redhead, did not fight to take him back more.


    ''Maybe they believe me. I can stop Wang Li from being evil,'' he thought to himself, ''Maybe they think I would need to complete my mission and¡­ maybe they want me to have some time with Ah Li before I¡­''


    He turned to look at the Ghost King and saw the worry in those silver eyes. Smiling, he nodded to his lover and leaned against the arm of his king. He felt fingers run down his hair and he hummed relaxed.


    "Are you alright?"


    "Mm hmm."


    "Tell me, Ah Yue," lips whispered closed to his ear, "How will you keep me from being evil?"


    He felt the fingers slide down his blonde locks, his spine, to the curve of his left butt cheek. Flushing, he pushed his lover away and looked around them.


    "Ah Li, there are people around."


    "You didn''t care before," the raven-haired man smirked, "You enjoyed it from what I remembered."


    Face red like a rose, Ying Yue swiped at the king.


    "I forgot! You got me distracted," he frowned covering his lips, "No kissing in public."


    He saw the smirk spread into a grin as Wang Li walked closer to him. His golden eyes blinked and saw his lover leaned down and his lips paused before the back of his hand.


    "We shall see."


    There was a sparkle in those silver eyes and he felt those lovely lips pressed against the back of his hand. Wang Li pulled back with a smirk and turned to walk off. Ying Yue pulled his hand away from his mouth and felt his face warmed. Looking to the retreating back of his lover, he found his lips spreading.


    ==


    The palace was beautiful. The sounds of music notes filled the air with the scent of delicious food being prepared. Ying Yue felt like this was a dream. He''s traveled with his master and brothers almost everywhere, but nothing compared to the feeling of comfort and safety he felt here. Laughing to himself, he shook his head. He felt safe and comfort with his family too, but the palace¡­ it was just so large and the people were so kind to him.


    He looked over at the raven haired king and his face heated up. His heart danced when his lover was around and his hands would yearn to touch his king. Looking away, he tried his best to just focus on his breathing. Wang Li was sitting across from him under the plum trees that he loved. He was the one to suggest them meditate together as the sun was setting, but he was the one unable to focus.


    ''Maybe it''s because I missed my brothers,'' he thought before he glanced at his lover''s lips, ''Or maybe it''s because of the kisses¡­''


    Shutting his eyes, he let out a deep breath and straightened his back. His master would be disappointed in him if the elder saw how he was behaving.


    ''Ying Yue,'' his master would sigh at him, tapping his head with his wooden fan, ''You must concentrate.''


    ''But how can I when Wang Li is right in front of me,'' he whined to his master. He imagined the disapproving shake of green hair and the frown gracing the elder''s face.


    ''Erase the distraction and feel your spiritual energy. You are the chosen one. Heavens chose you because they know you are able to complete the mission. Do not make them regret choosing you.''


    ''Yes master,'' the blonde sighed.


    He could feel the ebb and flow of his energy, warm and bright. He moved it toward his fingertips to his toes. The warmth pooled there until he pulled his energy away to his back, lightening and releasing tensions off his muscles. Ying Yue had good control of his spiritual energy, something he thought he wouldn''t be able to when he was younger.


    When he was in the mountains meditating and thinking deeply on calmness, he felt a golden light before him.


    "You are ready," the golden light spoke and he blinked his green eyes at it.


    "Who are you?"


    He tried to see who the glow was because this had never happened before. Rubbing his eyes, he tried to understand what the glow was saying.


    ''Ready for what?''


    There was no reply from the golden light, but Ying Yue felt a burning sensation surrounding his heart to his extremities. Letting out a gasp, he clutched his chest to ease the pressure. As soon as the burning was felt, it was gone. He was confused with his brows furrowed. The light had faded and it was just him again in the quiet of the mountain''s cave.


    Since then, he felt lighter and stronger. When he told his master, the green haired elder looked pleased. He remembered his jaw dropped when he was told the Jade Emperor had visited him.


    "He gifted you, Ying Yue."


    "I¡­ wow¡­ wow," he couldn''t help saying in awe.


    The blonde let out a soft laugh remembering that moment. Then¡­ his memories took him to when he saw Wang Li again after so many days apart. His cheeks warmed at his boldness and the king''s lips on his. Biting his lower lip, he opened his eyes slowly. Golden eyes looked at the raven-haired male, poised and beautiful before him. He couldn''t stop his golden eyes from traveling down the king''s chest, tattoo peeking through the opening.


    Ying Yue felt his lips dried and wet his lips unconsciously. Eyes continued to skim lower to the strong crossed legs. Gulping down the built up of saliva, he clenched his knees slightly. He forced his golden eyes to move up again and felt his face burn.


    Golden eyes met silver eyes.


    Wang Li curled his lips coyly and leaned forward. He could feel the blonde''s hot breath on his face and the fluttering of golden lashes. The light freckles were hidden beneath the redness upon lovely cheeks.


    "Ah Yue," he whispered and he watched his lover tilted his chin upwards.


    ''Beautiful.''


    He wanted to touch the blonde, to hold him close, but he had to respect what his lover had stated. No kissing in public. They were currently outside underneath the blossoming plum trees. Inwardly sighing, he pulled back and let out a gentle laugh when the blonde followed.


    "We are outside, Ah Yue."


    Ying Yue blinked for a moment before he covered his lips and looked around. Letting out a short laugh at himself, he nodded and cleared his throat. Fingers tucked loose platinum hair behind his ears and he smiled at his lover. Those fingers trailed down the curve of his cheek and jawline. He watched as Wang Li followed those fingers with his moonlit eyes, before staring at his lips. Ying Yue felt the pad of the king''s thumb run over his lips, dragging it with the movement. He felt heat rise up his neck and his heart skipped a beat.


    "Ah Li," he whispered and the thumb stopped it''s movement.


    "Shall we go to bed?"


    Wang Li pulled away and he itched to place his lover''s palm back on his face. Nodding, he held the king''s hand as the man in red led him to his room. The raven-haired male slid the panel open and he walked in. Looking around the room, it reminded him of his room in the cabin.


    "Sleep well, Ah Yue," Wang Li smiled at him and was walking out.


    "You¡­ you aren''t going to¡­" he dropped the sentence as his ears burned.


    ''Of course he wouldn''t! Ah! Why did I think Wang Li would¡­'' he looked down with a shake of his head.


    "You wish to sleep with me?" The Ghost King questioned with a sly smirk.


    "Yes. Wait¡­ I mean¡­" he covered his cheeks feeling how hot he was.


    The man in red closed the door behind him as he walked forward. His golden eyes looked doe like as his lover''s fingers wrapped gently around his wrists. Pulling his hands away and down, the king leaned down and finally, their lips touched again. Leaning in, he pressed closer.


    "All you had to do was invite me to your bed," Wang Li kissed to his ear as his lover''s hands rolled down his back to rub his ass, "I would accept."


    "You, you would?" Ying Yue gasped when his king pushed him closer, so their hips were pressed to one another.


    "Yes."


    Ying Yue shivered hearing the deep breathless tone of his lover. He was placed on the bed, chest pressed against his king above him. Kisses and more kisses all over his skin made him feel like clay being molded by his lover''s lips. He panted out with a mewl when Wang Li moved-

 Chapter 64 - I Want To Eat You

    -moved against him. His lover''s strong thigh pressed against his hardness. Squirming from the feel of wanting to pull apart, yet wanting more from the raven-haired male, Ying Yue just clutched onto his lover''s shoulder.


    Moaning into the hot open mouth, the blonde continued to feel the Ghost King rubbed against him more, pressing harder and so, so good. He arched his back and pulled his lips away to gasp and pant aloud. He moved his own thigh, pressed up against his lover''s manhood, hard and strong. Wang Li sucked in a breath and stuttered his movement, groaning as he kissed the blonde deeply. Ying Yue felt as if the raven-haired man was trying to suck his soul from his body, and he would freely give it to his lover as well.


    "Ah! Ah Li!" Ying Yue felt his stomach coiling, "I¡­ I need to, need to pee."


    Wang Li paused and laughed breathlessly against his ear. He watched as the Ghost King pulled away slowly, effortlessly, dragging his palms down his chest. Hands held the tie on his sash, waiting for his approval. Ying Yue stared at his lover from under his lashes, flushed a deep crimson, as he pulled up on his elbows. He nodded slowly and bit his bottom lip. The sound of his sash untying was loud in the candle flickering room. The sliding of fabric made his heartbeat quickly, unsure if it was from anticipation or fear.


    His lover slid under his outer robe, sliding up his thin light robe. Fingers brushed over his nipples and he gasped. The Ghost King did not stay over his nub, only continuing to palm over his chest to glide toward his shoulders. The thicker fabric of white fell off his shoulders and Ying Yue shivered slightly, although he was not cold.


    "Ah Li," he spoke softly, but it sounded so loud in his reddened ears.


    The king''s warm palm slid back up his shoulder and fingers danced over his exposed collarbone of his loose inner robe. His skin bumped up as if yearning to attached themselves to his lover''s touch. Ying Yue watched with half lidded golden eyes, taking in the sound of his lover''s breath ghosting over him. Those fingers ran over his sensitive clothed nipples, making his body squirmed underneath the hot body over him.


    "Ah," the blonde breathed out, but the Ghost King sucked any other noise from him.


    Moaning gently, he tugged the collar of his king, pulling him closer. Wang Li, his lips were molded against his so well and his tongue¡­ Ying Yue felt as if he was pierced into his heart and died. He pulled away, gasping and arching his back when he felt his lover''s hardness rubbed against his. It felt so good and the blonde moved his hips up, causing the press of their manhood to deepen. This only caused Wang Li to rubbed more, quicker, in such a way that Ying Yue was clawing down his lover''s back.


    Ying Yue can feel it again. The coiling in his lower stomach, the twitching of his penis, the heat in his pelvis. He was going to¡­ he¡­ he¡­


    Wang Li stopped his movement and pulled away his mouth that had been sucking lightly against the curve of the blonde''s neck. The body beneath him was shaking and he could hear the soft hiccups from his lover. He cupped Ying Yue''s face and the watery golden eyes, blinked worriedly at him. Smiling softly, he leaned down to kiss the tears off golden lashes.


    "I¡­ I apologize," Ying Yue sat up wiping his eyes.


    He felt his lover tuck his golden strands behind his ear and kissed his lips.


    The Ghost King stood up and removed his belt. His golden eyes watched as his lover removed his robes, revealing toned, smooth, milky skin. The ink brushed tattoo curved elegantly along the right side of his king''s chest. He saw the hand reached out to him and he took it, offering a weak smile. Wang Li removed his outer robe and folded it to place along his.


    "I know you want to¡­ I mean¡­ it''s just¡­" Ying Yue struggled to explain as tears filled his eyes once more.


    "It is alright, Ah Yue."


    "No, it isn''t I... I want to too but¡­ I just¡­ I must be pure. I am supposed to be."


    The blonde wrapped his arms around his lover, pulling him tight. He felt the king wrapped around him with fingers scrapping gently at the back of his head. He could feel hot breath against his ear and he was pressed closer to his lover''s chest. A wet tongue swiped the curve and dip of his ear and Ying Yue trembled, leaning against the Ghost King.


    "I want to eat you," the raven-haired male breathed deeply against his ear, "Taste every piece of skin on you. Take away your purity."


    Ying Yue closed his eyes and gripped tighter, sucking in his bottom lip.


    "Once your purity is gone, my love," the king chuckled deeply, darkly, and breathlessly as his hands run up and down his back and ass, "Then I shall go after another innocent."


    Golden eyes flew open and he pulled back with furrowed brows. Sticking out his bottom lip, he dipped his brows.


    "All you want from me is to have¡­ to take my innocence?"


    Wang Li laughed and though he loved to hear his lover laugh, this situation was not amusing. Pulling away, he stepped back crossing his arms.


    "Yes, Ying Yue. I want to take your innocence, your body, your heart, your lips," the Ghost King listed off moving into his space again, "Everything."


    "What will you do once you have it? Once I give you everything?"


    "Hm, what will I do¡­" Wang Li smirked rubbing his thumb pad over Ying Yue''s lips, "What do you want me to do?"


    He searched his lover''s face and pulled the thumb away.


    "To love only me."


    There, right there he saw Wang Li''s beautiful smile, the one that rivaled the moon and made his heart flipped and skipped. He kissed those thin lips to remind the king of how much he loved him. He kissed to prove that he would not give his lover up. He kissed deeply in hopes to be like Wang Li''s tattoo clinging against the strength of the Ghost King.


    "You forget, Ah Yue. I already do love you. You own my heart."


    "Then why did you say you''d leave me?" The blonde pouted.


    "I never said I would leave you, just to find another innocent," the black-haired male smiled slyly.


    "Don''t do that."


    "Anything for you, my love."


    Wang Li kissed him again and he sighed into the kiss.


    ''We are hopeless,'' Ying Yue smiled and pulled back staring lovingly at his lover.


    "Come, Ah Yue. Let us sleep."


    He nodded and slid into the covers, scooting to the other side for the king to join him. Once Wang Li settled, the blonde couldn''t help pressing himself closer to his lover. His fingers traced the dark Heaven''s mark, feeling the smoothness of the skin along his fingertips.


    "Ah Li," he whispered, "If¡­ if I could never give you all of me, if I can''t give you myself then¡­ would you still want to be with me?"


    He felt the vibration of Wang Li''s laugh against his ear, as long fingers slid down his jawline. They move to curled under his chin and lifted it to catch silver eyes.


    "My sweet love, how can I give you up?"


    "Really?" He flushed and his eyelashes fluttered.


    "I will take anything you give me. I yearn for you, Ying Yue."


    "Ah! Wang Li," he felt as hot as fire looking down shyly, "You know how to talk."


    The Ghost King laughed again and Ying Yue couldn''t help feeling his heart softened. He loves Wang Li''s laugh. His lover looked so much younger and freer.


    ''I wish to live my life freely, Ah Yue, don''t you?'' He remembered Wang Li asking him and he relaxed his lids.


    ''Yes, Ah Li, I do.''


    He replied and his hand pushed his lover''s hair out of relaxed face.


    "I love you, Ah Li."


    He watched the smile on the king''s face before he pressed his lips to seal the confession.


    ==


    Ying Yue had woken up for a while, but he did not move from his place. The view before him was too beautiful for him to look away. Wang Li, hair falling onto his face, breathing softly, and so relaxed. The blonde smiled and breathed in his lover''s scent. The arm that wrapped around him pulled him closer. His face pressed, tucked under the king''s chin. He felt Wang Li''s palms slid down to cup his bottom and he flushed.


    ''Wang Li¡­ What are you dreaming of?''


    The palm slid back up before back down, rubbing his ass and massaging it. Biting his bottom lip, the blonde tried not to squirm or move. When he thought he was able to hold back his trembling skin, he felt the pinch on his ass cheek.


    "Ah!" He yelped pushing away to rub the pain away. When he looked at the raven-haired male, what he saw were mirthful silver eyes.

 Chapter 65 - The Perfect Blushing Bride

    "My apologies," his lover voiced still sleep heavy, "Let me atone for the pain I caused."


    "No," he shook the hand away with a flush, "It is okay."


    Ying Yue saw the king sat up and watched him slyly with a smirk. The cover fell off his chest to reveal the lean muscles.


    "Come, Ah Yue," Wang Li said as he stood up, "Let us bathe."


    "Mm, maybe we should bathe separately."


    "Hm?" The Ghost King placed a knee on the bed and leaned toward him letting his lips pause before the blonde''s, "Are you afraid I would take advantage of you, my love?"


    "No," Ying Yue shook his head and breathed out a smile, "I am afraid I won''t stop looking at you."


    His silver eyes widened, and a soft laugh escaped the Ghost King''s lips. He kissed the blonde and pulled away with a shake of his head.


    "I will see you soon, Ah Yue."


    Ying Yue watched the king walk out with his bare chest and closed the door with a smile on his lips. The blonde let out a loud breath and fell on the bed. Taking a deep breath of Wang Li''s smell soaked into his side of the bed, he grinned goofily.


    "I don''t think I can stay pure if I am here with Wang Li," he sighed, but the smile stayed on his face when his thoughts strayed to the touches and kisses from the Ghost King. His face flushed and he snuggled closer into the bedding.


    "Hopeless, so hopeless."


    ==


    Wang Li stared at his hand where a black-like smoke floated and wrapped around his palm. It lifted and twisted as if alive, a living part of the Ghost King. He felt arms wrapped around him from behind.


    "Hm, are you feeling how much power you have again?"


    "You''ve been away for a long time."


    Wang Li soaked the darkness back into his skin, feeling the strength within his body. He had always known what his purpose was when he was younger. He turned to look at the red eyed demon and saw the grin on the human-like face. Ye Wu had been coming and going in the palace less frequently than when he was younger. He wondered if it was because of the change to his purpose.


    ''I still bring balance, but now it is through Ying Yue.''


    "Ye Wu," he greeted.


    "I missed you, Ah Li. You look like you are glowing, what had they been feeding you?"


    Ye Wu questioned tugging and rubbing his cheek with that same grin on his face.


    "How was your trip?"


    "Eh, I''ve made arrangements with more of my fellow members. All is good dear," the demon patted his cheeks with a sighed smile, "How I''ve missed your beautiful face."


    Letting out a smile of his own, Wang Li nodded.


    "Ah Wu," he said and paused for a moment, "I no longer need to create chaos."


    The grin on the face of the demon slowed to a smile to a frown.


    "What do you mean? What has changed?" Ye Wu glared with a scowl, "You promised, Wang Li! Are you going back on your word?"


    Wang Li sighed and looked toward the library, where he was told the blonde was. He understood with Ying Yue committing himself to staying with him and was hopeful to satisfy the demon inside him, the Ghost King knew Ye Wu would not take it lightly.


    "I know my promise, Ah Wu. I will find a way without people dying."


    There were suspicions in those ruby eyes as they narrowed. The demon with raven hair crossed his arms and frowned.


    "You know what the prophecy stated. How will you follow it?"


    "He is here. He is willing to ease the chaos within me, Ah Wu."


    "What?" Ye Wu''s eyes widened and his arms hung at his sides, "His master approved of this?!"


    Shaking his head, he paced back and forth thinking to himself.


    ''If the blonde is here, the one to bring balance to Wang Li''s chaos¡­ Ugh! I should have killed the Heaven''s Chosen long ago!''


    "Ye Wu, do you want to meet Ying Yue again?" Wang Li questioned searching his face, almost hopeful, and the demon''s resolved faltered.


    ''Dammit.''


    Forcing a grin on his face, he pinched the king''s nose and laughed.


    "Lead the way, child."


    "I am an adult now," Wang Li murmured as he walked toward the library. The red eyed demon laughed aloud and wrapped his arm over his shoulders. Opening the door to the library, he felt his lips curled when he saw his aunt sitting beside his lover. She had a small smile on her face, while Ying Yue''s face was reading the rolled-out scroll. Her eyes, beautiful and soft, sharpened when they caught the ruby ones of Ye Wu.


    "Nephew," his aunt greeted still seated.


    Ying Yue paused in his reading and looked up. His golden eyes widened and his mouth opened partly. Clearing his throat, he forced a smile and greeted the two men.


    "Ah Li," he looked over at the demon, "Ye Wu."


    "Ah Yue, no need to be formal, or fearful," the demon strutted in with a laugh, "Anyone who makes my Ah Li happy, then who am I to stop such happiness from him."


    The blonde nodded and watched the demon sit beside him. The red eyed demon pressed against his forehead, moving his finger along the mark from the Heavens. He felt more pressure against his forehead before the finger moved away.


    "You are glowing too," the demon hummed with a tilt of his head, "Did you two have sex?"


    Ying Yue felt his entire face flushed before he could force it away. Big golden eyes looked to the Ghost King to see his lover''s ears reddened. He looked away and down at the scroll he was reading earlier. Twiddling his thumbs, he ignored the laugh from the demon beside him.


    "Oh, how cute! No wonder Wang Li likes you. You make the perfect blushing bride!" Ye Wu laughed harder when the flush deepened on the blonde.


    ''Oh, this was perfect! Wang Li cares so deeply for this boy that he was willing to do that!'' He grinned wildly, ''I can take advantage of it and my people will be free.''


    "Ah Wu," he heard the Ghost King speak up and he turned to see the light flush on the raven-haired male''s ears, "Stop teasing."


    The king sat beside him and he caught the glances that both of Heaven''s chosen were glancing at one another, like they were embarrassed to act on their feelings before their elders.


    "Ah, alright," Ye Wu cupped Wang Li''s face and stared deeply into those silver eyes.


    ''All I have to do is crush his weak skull. He would not be able to fight back. He will die and then kill the blonde. My people will roam and be free once more. I will-''


    He felt his king''s fingers wrapped around his wrist.


    ''Dammit!''


    Letting out a sigh, the red-eyed demon rubbed his thumb over the mark under Wang Li''s left eye.


    "Remember your promise. I am not a patient demon."


    His ruby eyes saw the small smile on the raven-haired male''s lips.


    "I promise."


    Letting out a defeated huff, he squished the king''s cheeks and pouted.


    "You," he turned pointing to the blonde who looked at him startled, "You know what I am capable of. Unlike Wang Li, I can leave this village," he leaned closer to the freckled face boy, "I know where your master is. I will kill him if he is too distracted by you, understand?"


    "Ye Wu," the Ghost King sounded upset, angry perhaps, but the demon needed to be sure the blonde understood, "You will not hurt him."


    There was a slow chill filling the air around them and the demon pouted. Turning to see Wang Li with sharp silver eyes, hinting to red and he wrapped his thin arms around the man.


    "Wang Li," he whined, "Can you just go along with it? I wasn''t really going to kill his master. I like Pang Xi, you know that."


    "Don''t threaten Ying Yue again."


    Letting out a sigh, he leaned his head on his palm and frowned.


    "Ah Li," the blonde spoke up holding a smile, "Thank you. Ye Wu¡­ What, what is it Wang Li promised you?"


    "Hm, for my people to leave the confines of the Netherworld and roam freely," the demon grinned, "What they do, I cannot say or be responsible for."


    "Innocent people will die."


    "I do not care."


    "But, your people could die too."


    "It would be their fault."


    "But-"


    "Enough," Yun spoke up sternly.


    "Ah Yun," the demon singsong, but the glare made his lips dried.


    "Nephew, help Ying Yue put away the readings," the female ordered.


    "Madame, may I leave the ones I haven''t read?" The blonde questioned and she nodded with a curl of her lips.


    She watched the two chosen of Heavens stroll away and her eyes returned to the demon. Her lips straightened and she watched the demon cross his arms.


    "Old lady."


    "Pathetic demon."

 Chapter 66 - When There Is Something I Desire

    Both glared at one another, standing their ground as their stares and words are fighting one another like swords.


    "You are not welcomed here any longer."


    "Like that would stop me."


    "His words would."


    "He would never-"


    "He would. He will."


    "Old lady! How dare you speak to me in that way! I could kill you right now!"


    "But you won''t."


    "You think I won''t!"


    "I know."


    "You stupid old-"


    "Because of him. You care for him and so do I. I will see to it that he holds his promise, demon. In turn, you will not return to this village or to either of them. Understand?"


    Ye Wu narrowed his eyes and scowled at the female before him. So many years of molding Wang Li, so many years in getting close to that weak heart of his, so many years of giving and giving and giving! The demon could not help feeling betrayed. He had been there for the Ghost King, not that boy! He taught Wang Li how to play checkers, he was the one that helped him control his powers, he was the one who was there when the king was crying! No one else!


    "Calm yourself demon."


    His fists clenched tighter on his biceps. Yun had disapproved of his involvement for many years, but even she knew the benefits he had on her nephew. Although Ye Wu spent many time alone with the king, the elder had always found a way to do something with the spiritual energy he pushed into the child. This woman was not even chosen to raise Wang Li, but was forced to and yet¡­


    "It''s your fault that other boy is here at all," he feigned calmness because damn her, acting higher than him.


    "Perhaps," the female looked toward the opened door to the falling red blossoms, "I had a vision, demon."


    "What about it?"


    "My nephew died."


    "We already know that, old woman. It is prophesied already!"


    "Not by Ying Yue, demon," she stared folding at him, "... by you."


    Red eyes widened in surprised as his breath hitched.


    ''Did I really go through with it? Did I really, finally, kill Ah Li?''


    While the elders spoke, Ying Yue looked through the shelves and placed back the book he pulled out. The library was quite large with empty shelves for more additions. His eyes found a book on the top shelf that interested him.


    "The Legend of Worlds," he murmured to himself and reached for it, but he saw another reached for it first. The strong body pressed against him from behind and he flushed, ears hot from where he stood.


    "Is this what you wanted?" Wang Li whispered behind his ear.


    "Thank you, Ah Li," he reached for it, but the king held it away and pressed against him more, causing him to stumble against the bookshelf.


    "You''ll have to catch me first, my love."


    Then Ying Yue felt the light bit against the tip of his ear making him gasped along with the light pat on his butt. Before the blonde could react, the man in red had already ran off leaving him flushing.


    "Wang Li, I will get you!" He quietly shouted and followed, smiling playfully.


    Wang Li playful was something Ying Yue loved the most. His lover was a tease and a silly man, but he always stopped when he asked him too. The king never questioned Ying Yue and always knew how to make his heart dance for him. Sighing in affection, he bit his lips so he doesn''t give away his spot. The blonde figured out that because Wang Li cared about him very much, the king was bound to wonder where he was.


    "Ah Yue," The Ghost King questioned looking around, "I apologize if I upset you. Please do not be angry."


    He covered his mouth as he could hear the footsteps near him. Hiding behind the bookshelf, he inwardly screamed happily at his plan.


    ''Just a little bit more,'' the blonde thought and just as the man walked passed the bookshelf, Ying Yue saw his opening. Wang Li''s back was vulnerable to him and the blonde jumped, trying to catch the king off guard. Unfortunately, he was caught and slammed against the bookshelf.


    "Ugh," he felt the air leave him for a second as he tried to find out what happened. He looked into harsh silver eyes before they quickly widened with worry.


    "Ying Yue?" The king questioned for a moment and saw his hand was against the blonde''s chest to keep him there, "My apologies! I¡­"


    The sound of a creaking noise was heard and then they were leaning with the falling bookshelf. Books were slammed on the ground and tossed, as the shelves fell. Wang Li quickly twisted them so he was the one who would be slammed onto the books, broken woods, and floor. He pressed his lover''s head against his shoulder to make sure Ying Yue wasn''t hurt.


    He let out a grunt as he felt the books and woods pressed against his spine and shoulders. The debris floated into the air for a moment before it settled down. Letting out a breath, he looked up to see if his lover was alright.


    "Ah Yue?"


    "I am fine," the blonde pulled away to face him, "Are you alright?"


    "Forgive me," he rubbed his lover''s cheeks, "I did not mean to harm you."


    "I forgive you," Ying Yue smiled and their lips moved closer to one another but-


    "So the noise came from you two."


    The blonde quickly got off his lover and bowed lowly at the female elder.


    "My apologies, Madame Yun. I will fix this mess, Wang Li and I..." he looked over to notice the man in red was sitting there staring at him with wide eyes, "Ah! I apologize Ah Li," he bent down to help the king stand, dust him off, before bowing lowly with embarrassment.


    "Where is Ye Wu, auntie."


    "He returned," the female walked over to them and handed the king a folded paper, "He left this for you."


    Wang Li took the paper and nodded.


    "As for this mess," she let out a sigh, "Ying Yue, Wang Li, I expect this to be cleaned before our last meal. Understood?"


    "Yes, Madame." "Yes, Auntie." They both bowed and Yun just shook her head with an amused smile.


    They watched the elder leave them alone and heard her tell some workers not to enter the library to assist them. Letting out a deep sigh, Ying Yue looked back at the mess.


    "Wang-" he didn''t finished his sentence before lips kissed him possessively. Hands were roaming his chest and back, causing him to wince. Pulling away he let out a hiss and rubbed where his skin was bruising.


    "Let me see," his lover said and reached for his collar, but Ying Yue frowned pulling further away.


    "We must clean this mess, Ah Li. Madame Yun would be upset with us."


    "But you are injured."


    "Ah Li," Ying Yue couldn''t help smiling, "If we finish before our last meal, I will show you."


    Wang Li perked up and a grin spread across those beautiful thin lips. He felt his heart jumped with his stomach filled with butterflies.


    "Challenge accepted, my dear Ah Yue."


    Ying Yue¡­ did not realize how fast the Ghost King worked and how meticulous. The books were gathered and placed aside. The broken pieces of shelves were placed outside of the study and by the time Ying Yue brought the broom, Wang Li had already placed most of the books back on the unbroken shelves.


    "Wow, Wang Li. I didn''t think we would finish so quickly," the blonde grinned sweeping the small broken pieces and debris.


    "When there is a goal I desire, nothing will get in my way," the man in red mentioned, but his tone sounded¡­ sultry and the way he looked to the side at him¡­


    "Is that so," he reddened and focused on cleaning, "I should learn from you, Ah Li."


    "Hm," Wang Li sounded with a snicker, "Call me master and I will teach you."


    He blinked for a moment, unsure if what he heard was right. Glancing at his lover, he saw the man placed the last book on the shelf. Those piercing silver eyes slid to him and moved them from his head to toes slowly, as if undressing him.


    "So shameless," he huffed with a pout, but his smile soon spread across his lips.


    He heard Wang Li laugh and went toward him. He placed a soft kiss on the blonde''s cheek and said he would return shortly. Ying Yue watched his lover leave the library and a part of him relaxed. The king did too much for his heart and his blood that he truly wondered if it wasn''t Wang Li that would kill him, instead of the other way around.


    Humming a tune to himself, he felt at peace. This was what it felt like to not have the reigns of the Heavens tethered to him. He was lost in thought when Wang Li returned, surprising him when arms wrapped around him.


    "You are already finished, Ah Yue."


    That deep sensual voice did things to his insides, stirring his soft cock alive.

 Chapter 67 - When We Do More Than Kiss

    Wang Li pulled the broom away from the blonde, who let out an apologetic smile.


    "Come, Ah Li. Take off your robe," the king smirked.


    "Wang Li!" The blonde reprimanded softly, flushing as he looked around them.


    "Ying Yue," the raven-haired man cupped his cheek, "Let me see how much I hurt you."


    The blonde offered a smile and placed his hand onto his lover''s, squeezing it gently. Nodding, Wang Li pulled him to sit where he was reading with Madame Yun earlier. Sitting with his back to the Ghost King, he loosened his robes.


    He felt his skin shivered when fingers danced across his bare shoulders leaving goose pimples in its wake. He felt his article slipped off his shoulders and Wang Li''s palmed down to his elbow, then back to his shoulders. The king pulled his platinum blonde hair over his shoulder to reveal the expanse of his back.


    Milky glowed skin revealed itself to silver eyes and Ying Yue felt vulnerable. This was the most skin he had shown in front of his lover. Flushing from the thought, he let out a soft gasped when fingers pushed around his soreness. An apologetic kiss was placed on his shoulder and the blonde curled his lips.


    He felt something wet and the smell of medicine filled his senses.


    ''So that was where he went. How thoughtful.''


    Ying Yue felt his heart at ease and his mind at peace when he was with the raven-haired man. Closing his eyes, he savored the touches his lover gave to him so freely, so gently, so much love. A small gust of cool air against the wetness made his body shiver lightly. He felt the Ghost King wrap his arms around him and intertwined their fingers with one hand, while the other was placed over his heart. The press of warmth against his bare back was nice and comforting to him, like waking up to a lazy morning.


    "Forgive me," Wang Li said softly leaving light kisses at his temple and the back of his head.


    Ying Yue let out a soft laugh and placed his hand on top of Wang Li''s over his heart. His lover was so silly to ask for forgiveness when he already gave it to him. Closing his golden eyes, he leaned back and smiled feeling how his spiritual energy danced with any touch by his king.


    He felt something foreign, something else playing with his power. Confusion took over him as he felt around the strange energy and it caressed him.


    "Ah Li," he opened his golden eyes and turned to see a partial of the beautiful king''s face.


    "Hm?"''


    The rumble massaged his back and he couldn''t stop the laugh from escaping his plump lips.


    "I can feel you inside me," he said softly looking down to where their hands were placed over his heart.


    "Mm, can you now?" The deep baritone carried a mischievous want and Ying Yue flushed deeply.


    "Why, why didn''t you tell me?" The blonde questioned flustered, not daring to look at his lover.


    "You were asleep."


    "Wang Li."


    "I forgot."


    Ying Yue turned around with a quirk of his brow, disbelieving the king. Wang Li just stared at him with such innocence that he really thought maybe the Ghost King did forget. However, Ying Yue had seen how playful his lover could be and there was always a sparkle in those moonlit eyes when the king was being humorous.


    "Your turn, Ah Li. Let me check," he decided to say instead and saw the smirk playing across the king''s lips.


    "I am fine, Ah Yue, but if you wish to see me naked¡­"


    "Ah, Wang Li, you are shameless," the blonde tugged his shoulders to turn him and the king followed with a laugh.


    "Only with you, my dear Ah Yue."


    With his back to the blonde, the Ghost King did not see the pleased look on his face. Once Ying Yue saw the expanse of hard surface, milky and so¡­


    Licking his lips, Ying Yue reached out and felt around the king''s back. He could tell from the muscles and thickness how strong his lover was. He felt around an area where the light skin was red and bruising. Grabbing the medicine bottle, he dabbed some onto his fingers before smoothing it onto the raised skin. He worked diligently and gently like his lover had done to him.


    Wang Li enjoyed the soft touches of the blonde. It calmed him so easily, like the crackling of fire underneath the stars. The glide of fingertips, the soft hum from plump lips, the Ghost King relaxed even more. He felt the gust of breath against his skin, drying the wetness from the ointment. His lips curled when he felt Ying Yue wrapped his arms around him, pressed to his back, with a palm over his heart.


    "Ah Li," the blonde whispered, "I''d like to give you some of my energy too. Is that okay?"


    "I will take whatever you give me, my love," Wang Li closed his eyes and listened to the heartbeat against his shoulder.


    There was a tug against his core, a shy knock that asked to enter. His sweet, kind Ying Yue¡­ still asking for permission when he was already his. Expanding his spiritual energy, he welcomed the feel of his lover''s energy sliding and caressing his own. It illuminated his entire being, making him feel so much more alive than he was before. He wrapped his own energy around his lovers, teasing it and embracing it tightly.


    His. Ying Yue was his.


    ''You will never leave me. You will stay forever. You are mine.''


    He wrapped his lover with him, knotting them to never break, never to escape. Ying Yue gasped and pulled back, feeling slightly woozy. Wang Li turned to him and his silver eyes¡­ the blonde felt like a small rabbit in the den of a lion.


    The king kissed his lover roughly, deeply, filled with possession and passion. Tongue and teeth overwhelmed the platinum haired male, as it swiped, tugged, and bit on his lips. His breath was hard to find and his heart was confused whether to race out of his chest or slow like molasses.


    ''I want to eat you, devour you. Taste every inch of skin, of hair, of bones. I want everything!''


    Wang Li pulled away from those precious lips and pressed his forehead against the blonde''s. He shut his eyes, ignoring those thoughts of possession and obsession. Ying Yue was his lover, not some pawn to misuse. Forcing himself to pull away to check if he had harmed the blonde once again, his silver eyes searched his lover''s face. Heavy lidded eyes, dilated pupils, face flushed rose, mouth parted and bruised lips.


    The king swallowed hard at what a meal- no! He shook his head to get rid of those thoughts.


    ''Beautiful,'' Wang Li breathed out a smile and saw the slow fluttered of golden lashes.


    "Let us go eat, Ah Yue."


    The blonde nodded slowly and sat up on his knees, but when Ying Yue tried to stand, his legs were wobbly and he fell against his lover. Wang Li fell onto his back and blinked up surprised at the blonde.


    "Sorry," Ying Yue apologized, face laxed as he laid still against his lover, "My body feels... like pudding."


    Wang Li laughed breathlessly and pulled the blonde''s head above his.


    "Pudding?" He smiled slyly.


    "Mm," Ying Yue sighed and leaned heavily on the hold the king had on him. He had no bones, no body¡­ he was just a floating spirit that fell in love with the Ghost King. That was what he was¡­ that was why he felt so raw and pudding-like.


    "Hm, then I wonder," Wang Li moved his head closer to his, "I wonder how you''d feel when¡­" lips grazed his, "We do more than kiss."


    They stared at one another, lips barely touching, breath mingling and ghosting their faces. Ah, he really does not know if he could last holding onto his purity if he stayed any longer with Wang Li. He really, really was a temptation and a fruit Ying Yue wanted to eat. Letting out a sigh, he frowned lightly and closed his golden eyes.


    "What is wrong?"


    "Nothing."


    "Ah Yue¡­"


    "It''s just¡­ I think we should sleep apart from now on."


    Wang Li stared at his lover and saw the forlorn look upon golden eyes.


    "Okay."


    "It''s so hard," Ying Yue mumbled, "Why is it so hard?"


    "What is?"


    "To stay away when I want you so much, Ah Li," the blonde admitted and felt laughing lips upon his.


    "I thought I was the one who knows how to talk pretty."


    A smile spread across his plumped lips and he sighed, watching his lover beneath him.


    ''If I give in¡­ would the Heavens be upset with me, even if it is to bring Wang Li and I closer together?''


    "Ah Hien! Did you not tell them we are wait-"

 Chapter 68 - Youve Captivated My Heart

    Both Wang Li and Ying Yue turned to the opened doors to see the blue haired female''s eyes bulging from her head, while the brunette smiled apologetically to them.


    "This was why I tried to stop you, Ah Chu," Hien sighed, "Madame Yun asked that you both join her for the last meal of the day."


    "Of, of course," Ying Yue stuttered and pulled away to stand, but his legs still had little strength thanks to the kiss earlier. Wang Li held him up and wrapped an arm around his waist, pressing him against the king''s side. Flushing with embarrassment, Ying Yue avoided their eyes as shame filled his mind.


    Hien had to pull the frozen blue haired female away as they followed behind.


    Wang Li looked as if nothing was amiss, but Ying Yue¡­ he couldn''t help the redness across his cheeks or the way his heart singed with the strength of his king. He followed where his lover''s arm took him and ended up sitting beside the Ghost King.


    Greeting the elder female, the blonde gulped down his anxiety. He tried to wipe away the flush, the undying love, the shameful thoughts he had for his king from his face. He didn''t want the aunt of his lover to think he lost face or worse, deserve her nephew for such acts of indecency.


    "Nephew," the white haired female spoke up, "Was the ointment useful?"


    "Yes. Thank you, auntie."


    ''The medicine was from¡­ Madame Yun?'' He glanced at the elder and smiled.


    "Thank you, Madame Yun. Did you concoct it on your own?" Ying Yue asked politely.


    "Yes."


    "Amazing! I¡­ I am not good with herbs and medicine. My brother Zhang Han Mo is more skilled in that than I."


    "I see. Maybe I will discuss with your brother when we get the chance."


    "Really? I am sure he would be honored, Madame Yun. I thank you for considering."


    He grinned happily and felt the squeeze on his shoulder. Looking up, his grin softened into a smile as silver eyes watched him amused.


    "What are you good at then besides seducing our king?" Chu questioned curiously and Ying Yue covered the bottom half of his face embarrassed, "And that other brother, the redhead, what is his skill at?"


    "Ah Chu¡­" The brunette female sighed with a shake of her head.


    "What? I am just curious."


    "Well¡­ Zhang Xu Ling is a great swordsmith and though he does not admit it, he loves sweets," the blonde laughed.


    "Oh, like Ah Li," the blue haired female pointed out, "One time the chef made moon cakes for the Autumn Festival for everyone at the palace, but when it was time to bring it out, Wang Li here had already eaten half of them."


    "Really?" He laughed and looked at his lover who held a slight flush, "I didn''t know."


    "Also, Ah Li had to have ginger tea because-"


    "Ah Chu!" Yun said calmly but her tone was as a sharp as a blade, "That is enough gossip."


    "Yes, eldest sister," the blue haired female offered an apologetic smile, "Enough about our king. What about you Ying Yue. We don''t know much about you, just that you are in love with Ah Li."


    He flushed with that statement because¡­ because it was true. He looked to Wang Li and saw him smiling softly, like there was a hidden secret only they knew. It was so pure and sweet that Ying Yue looked away before he ended up kissing his lover.


    "I¡­ yes. I love Wang Li very much," he admitted, "I also love all types of soups and¡­ I know Wang Li likes fatty beef with wine-soaked rice," he glanced up at his lover and saw the amused quirk of his lips. "I¡­ I don''t know what I am truly good at when it comes to combat."


    "You battle with quickness and elegance, Ah Yue, an entrancing beauty," Wang Li stated and he couldn''t help the way his golden eyes widened or the hitched of his breath. The Ghost King really thought of him as that? Since¡­ since when? Since they started sparring when they were young or later? Was it after his mark revealed itself?


    Wang Li cupped his cheek and smiled at him, as if he read exactly what the blonde was thinking.


    "Since the very beginning, Ah Yue, you''ve captivated my heart."


    ''Hopeless¡­ so very hopeless¡­'' Ying Yue told himself as his heart stuttered and his face flushed deeply. How was he going to ever be okay without Wang Li? The Ghost King, his king, his lover, his best friend¡­ so perfect that he wondered if he was selfish for wanting the man in red so badly.


    "I love you," he whispered and the Ghost King leaned down and kissed his lips.


    ''Hopeless.''


    "I love you too, Ah Yue."


    "Alright, lovebirds, stop before we all can''t eat from all that sugar," Chu stuck out her tongue, and Ying Yue laughed softly with a smile.


    He felt Wang Li moved the hand that was on his waist to intertwine their fingers and he leaned closer to his lover. He glanced at the female, the head of the family, and she smiled at him. His tension eased off his body and he looked down at his bowl, filled with items that his lover placed.


    ''No, hopeful,'' Wang Li had told him before and he agreed.


    He was very hopeful that things would work out, that the world will stay in balance, and Wang Li and him would be happy.


    ==


    Hien played her tune softly and smoothly like the wind playing with the long grassy hills. Her eyes closed and her brown hair flowed against her back. The wooden flute was held against her lips where her fingers laid, danced over the holes with the sound of the melody. Her mind went to the days when her sisters and her were younger. Her oldest sister with her white clouded hair smiled and laughed often. Their other sister, the one who carried their king, was not as kind or empathetic to their needs. Hien always worried for the second oldest sister, but her concerns were always slapped away.


    ["Please sister, I am concerned."


    "Have you nothing to do but be worried about me?! Go find something else to do than nag me."]


    A young Hien would tear up and cry to her twin, who sighed shaking her blue hair and patted her. Every time, Yun would apologize for their sister''s words and Hien knew that the real apologies were from the eldest, not the second eldest.


    The song that she was playing morphed to a sadness within her heart. Her thoughts went to her nephew, their king. The day his mother moved to the next life, Yun did not leave her room for many days. When she left her room, her eyes were tired with lack of sleep and her sister''s lips were pursed.


    The melody raised quickly into a light melody before it slowed into the smoothness from earlier.


    ["Auntie," the young Ghost King stared with big silver eyes at her eldest sister, "I thought you left me too."


    Fat tears slipped down his doe eyes and she felt her own eyes watered from the words the young king spoke. Not once did the little raven-haired boy questioned where the white-haired female was. He smiled and laughed. The young king shed very little tears for his own mother, yet here he was sniffing and shaking with sadness.


    "I am here, nephew. I will go nowhere unless you wish it of me."


    Yun kneed down and wrapped her arms around the young boy. Hien smiled with tears streaming down her face, holding her twin beside her. Both Chu and her watched how at ease their elder sister was with the child and how perfect the white haired female would''ve been as his mother.


    "I will never wish it, auntie. I love you."


    "I love you too, my child."]


    The music slowed to a quiet calmness, as her memories receded. Hien pulled the flute away from her lips and opened her eyes. She heard soft claps near her and turned to see who it was. Smiling, she fully turned to face the guest and bowed.


    "That was beautiful, Ah Hien."


    "Thank you, Sir Yue," Hien smiled.


    "I could feel so much listening to you play. You have a gift."


    Ying Yue stated in awe because his heart seemed to revel in each notes as it vibrated in his chest. He''s heard some musicians during missions with his family, but this was¡­ this was just amazing!


    "Sir Yue, do you play any instruments?"


    "I do not, but I''ve been reading the music books in the library. I think I will purchase one in the market tomorrow. You''ve inspired me, Ah Hien!" The blonde grinned as his eyes sparkled with excitement.


    "My sisters and Ah Shen play instruments, Sir Yue. It would be an honor to hear you play as well."


    "You all play!" Golden eyes widened and mouth hung opened, "I¡­ I''d like to hear them play too. Oh¡­ does Wang Li play as well?"

 Chapter 69 - Lovely, Isnt It

    She shook her head and let out an amused smile, "My king is very gifted with many things, patience in learning music is not one of them, but¡­" she added seeing the blonde''s face dropped, "I am certain he will learn from you, Sir Yue."


    "Are you certain?" Ying Yue questioned hopeful as his golden eyes shined.


    "I am certain," the brunette smiled pleasantly and the blonde grinned.


    "Please do not tell him, I''d like for it to be a surprise."


    "Of course, Sir Yue," Hien made a motion of zipping her lips and the blonde laughed.


    ''You make Wang Li very happy Ying Yue, do you know this?'' She returned to the village with the Heaven''s Chosen smiling and greeting their people, ''May the heavens bless the both of you.''


    They reached the entrance of the palace to see the Ghost King kneeled before a young boy with dark hair. The child''s eyes were large with tears slipping down the corners and dropping from his face. He looked pitiful and dirty with snot dripping down his face, but the Ghost King placed a calm hand on the boy''s shoulder.


    ''How familiar¡­'' Hien couldn''t help thinking as her eyes stared at the young boy with large doe eyes.


    Ying Yue and Hien saw the boy peered down to the closed fist before him. Wang Li opened it and a cloud like butterfly flew out of his palm, circling the young boy. It landed on the child''s shoulders, nose, before it settled on his dirt-stained forehead. Doe eyes blinked widely in awe before his round face scrunched up in tears once more.


    They watched as the boy hung his head wiping his face, but the king grabbed his chin and whipped the dirt, the tears, the snot of the young boy with a red handkerchief. As both Hien and Ying Yue neared closer, an older woman rushed over relieved to find her kin. She bowed and apologized profusely, but the Ghost King shook his head and stood.


    "No need to apologize, Madame, I have gained insight from your grandson," Wang Li smiled and looked at the boy, "One day you will become someone special. When that day comes, I will gift you what you wish."


    "What wish?" The lady questioned looking at the child with furrowed brows.


    "Do you¡­ do you mean it?!" The boy looked hopeful as his eyes shined but his forehead creased with worry.


    "My word is my promise," the man in red nodded patting the boy''s head.


    "Thank you my king! Grammy, let''s go do good things so I can be special like him! Come Grammy, come!"


    The elder was pulled away by the child and Ying Yue couldn''t help smiling pleased. Turning, he looked at the man in red who held the white butterfly, almost translucent on his fingertips. Wang Li had whispered words close to the insect before letting it fly off. Silver eyes slid to his golden ones and his heart bounced.


    "Ah Yue, Ah Hien," the Ghost King greeted.


    "What are you doing outside, Wang Li?" Ying Yue questioned smiling.


    "I was waiting."


    "Who were you waiting for?" The blonde tilted his head looking around, "Oh, the boy? Was he okay?"


    "The child ran into me and fell."


    "Ah, that is why he was crying," Hien looked to where the child had left.


    "What do you mean?" Ying Yue questioned.


    "All the villages know of our king, Sir Yue. There is fear in knowing the title of a king and what power he holds."


    Ying Yue thought about those words and stared at his lover.


    "He thought he made me dirty and apologized," the man in red stated.


    "Mm, I thought I heard you say something about a wish to him."


    "Your hearing is correct, Ah Yue."


    "What was the wish?" The blonde wondered and Wang Li''s lips curled amusedly.


    "Why do you wish to know?"


    "I am only curious," he grinned.


    "I shall return, my king," Hien said smiling at the two men.


    "Ah Hien," Wang Li spoke up, "You played well. A new song?"


    "Mm, a song of memories, I suppose," the brunette nodded, "Are you certain you do not wish to learn?"


    "My patience for learning music is low, Ah Hien."


    "Maybe you just needed the right teacher, my king," she glanced and smiled knowingly at the blonde, "Enjoy your time in the village."


    Ying Yue looked back at his lover once the brunette returned into the palace. Long fingers brushed down his arm before the man walked forward. The blonde followed closely and felt fingers brush against his fingers this time. Glancing at Wang Li, he wondered if the king was doing these touches with a purpose or was it accidental.


    They just made his skin itch for his king.


    "Ah Li," he turned to the Ghost King as they continued walking, "You look very nice today."


    Wang Li slid his warm palm against the blonde''s back before curling his fingers at the small waist.


    "I thank you, Ah Yue," the man in red whispered against his temple and he leaned against his lover, "Careful, my love, everyone is watching."


    Ying Yue let out a defeated sigh. Why did he tell Wang Li no kissing in public again? Ignoring the urge to taste those lips, he smiled at those who bowed to them. They entered a shop with flaps at the door. The room was filled with fabrics and tunics of all sorts.


    "My king," a man with blonde hair, as bright as the sun, smiled at Wang Li. Dimples revealed and orange eyes sparkled, the man around their age let out a soft laugh, "You look elegant today."


    "Thank you, Sheng Shui," Wang Li smiled back, "That color suits you."


    "Oh, you think so?" The man stood back and turned with his arms outstretched, "If my king says so, then it must be true."


    ''The orange does suit him¡­'' Ying Yue agreed and felt a bit unease to see how friendly the two were. He felt as though he was an outsider watching old acquaintances rekindling their relationship. He noticed the softness of the smiles, the kindness in their tones, the light teasing, and the way they look at one another. It was as if-


    "Who is this?" The blonde questioned staring at him, "Oh, that mark¡­"


    "It is nice to meet you," Ying Yue smiled kindly and bowed, "My name is Ying Yue."


    "Greetings, my name is Sheng Shui," the man returned the bow with a grin, "That mark means you are chosen as well? Two chosens¡­ that means we''d be well protected, right?"


    "We will do our best," he nodded and felt fingers tuck his strands behind his ear.


    Wang Li was looking at him with that smile that made his heart swoon and-


    "Ah Yue, will you step away for a moment? I wish to speak with Ah Shui alone."


    Oh.


    He looked to the other blonde and back to his lover. Letting out a smile, he stepped away and looked around the small room. There were robes, tunics, and dresses on display. His eyes stared at a white one lined with gold. The intricate detail swirled into lilies down the front and sleeves. He reached his fingers to touch the silky fabric and followed the designs.


    "Lovely, isn''t it?"


    Ying Yue pulled his fingers away and turned to the person. Seeing the blonde, he smiled and nodded.


    "Did you make all of these?"


    "Mm," Sheng Shui nodded and looked at the white robe before him, "Took me awhile to get this right, but the result is amazing, don''t you agree?"


    "It is beautiful," he breathed out looking at the robe, "Hm? Where is Wang Li?" Ying Yue questioned when he noticed the raven haired male was not beside them.


    "Wang Li?" The blonde man question, "Is that what he goes by?"


    "Ah Li and I, we¡­ uh¡­" Ying Yue wondered if only those in the palace were supposed to know.


    "Ah Li¡­ so the two of you are close then," the topaz eyed man frowned, "Are you two a couple?"


    His cheeks reddened and he looked away.


    "I see¡­" the man sighed and turned to stare at a door.


    ''So my king¡­ Wang Li¡­ he''s already found someone.''


    The door opened and his orange eyes took in the beauty of his king, dressed in black with silver plum blossoms freely designed. He let out a laugh as he shook his head. Walking to the Ghost King, he adjusted the sash and collar of the tunic. His palms smoothed down the wrinkles on his king''s chest and arms, down his hips and legs.


    "My king, you are too used to others dressing you," Sheng Shui shook his head sighing in respite.


    "Ah Shui," the man smiled, "Are you calling me spoiled?"


    "What else would I be calling you?"


    He lifted his brow with a challenge and Wang Li smirked at him, the type of smirk that was a warning before-


    "Ah! Okay! Okay!" He shouted when he was caught from behind with the king''s arm wrapped around his neck.


    "Sheng Shui, what did you call me?" The Ghost King questioned near his ear as he tried to pull away.

 Chapter 70 - Delicious

    "I called you beautiful, my king, Wang Li, Ah Li," he singsong with a grin. His king laughed and let him go, but he pushed the raven-haired male, "You, my beautiful Ghost King, is a spoiled rotten king."


    Quickly walking around to hide behind the platinum blonde, he stuck out his tongue playfully.


    "Ying Yue, come," Wang Li called and he held onto the Heaven Chosen''s shoulder.


    "Protect me, Ah Yue," Sheng Shui begged but his lips were spread into a smile, "My king is terribly rude to me and I''ve worked so hard to make him all these nice clothes."


    "Ah Li¡­"


    "Ah Yue, come."


    "But¡­"


    "Ying-"


    "No."


    "No?"


    "Ah Shui worked hard on all these clothing. Please do not ruin them, including the one you are wearing," Ying Yue paused and let his eyes roamed down the tunic his lover wore, "You do look very beautiful."


    He watched the smile spread across the silver eyed man''s face and he returned the smile. Wang Li walked forward and glanced at the bronzed eyed male.


    "Sheng Shui is the only one I trust to do this for me," the king admitted and the orange eyed male perked up.


    "Does that mean you forgive me, Ah Li, my king?" The blonde seam master grinned.


    "Since Ah Yue wish it of me, then I will," the Ghost King pulled his lover against him and sent a sly smirk at the topaz eyed male, "Count yourself lucky, Ah Shui."


    "I shall bow at your feet, Ah Yue."


    "What? No, no, there is no need, Ah Shui," Ying Yue turned to the other blonde, "You have done much for Wang Li and those in the village. I thank you."


    Ying Yue proceeded to bow, but Sheng Shui laughed as he held him up. The door to the shop opened and a young lady walked in with wavy purple hair.


    "Oh no, it''s her¡­" Sheng Shui mumbled under his breath not turning to the female quite yet.


    "What is wrong, Ah Shui?" Ying Yue asked.


    "She is my most difficult client and takes so long! One time it took me an entire day working with her and she did not purchase anything."


    "Sheng Shui," the female called out and greeted the other two, "My king, Sir."


    Ying Yue was about to open his mouth and greet back, but the other blonde shook his head and pushed him away.


    "Trust me, I am saving you," the seam master stated and with one last push, he pasted a smile and turned to the female.


    Ying Yue just stared for a moment. Did Sheng Shui not just say the female was his hardest client? Did he not want Ying Yue''s help? He felt arms wrapped around him and he looked up.


    "I want you to try this on, Ah Yue. I believe you would look beautiful in it," his lover smiled at him and pulled him to that same white robe with golden laces. Wang Li pulled it off the display and pulled him toward the door. He smiled and nodded, as he entered the small room to change into the robe.


    However, Wang Li had stepped in and closed the door behind him. There were very little room for them and he could feel the heat from his lover¡­ or was that him?


    "Let me help you," the king''s voice ghosted over his face and he fluttered his lashes. Hands slid down his chest to pause at the sash holding his robe together. A pause, a nod, and then a pull to loosen his outfit.


    He closed his eyes for a moment, enjoying the feel of his lover''s warm palm gliding over the thin fabric of his inner robe. Hands paused at his hips and he opened his golden eyes to see the intensity of those silver ones watching him with need.


    Licking his lips, Wang Li kissed him softly and slowly. Deep strokes of tongue entered his mouth and licked every dips. Ying Yue wrapped his arms around his king''s neck and pulled him closer. He  moaned when he felt hands squeezed his ass.


    "Ah¡­ Ah¡­ Ah Li," Ying Yue panted softly feeling the hardness against his own, "We¡­ not here."


    The Ghost King kissed and pressed his hips against him harder, making him clutch tightly to the king''s shoulder. Gasps were sucked out of his mouth and his legs were starting to shake. He tried to turn away to avoid those deadly lips, but Wang Li was on a mission to make him die by capturing his lips repeatedly.


    His mind was getting light from the lack of oxygen, so the only thing holding him up was the wall and the press of his lover.


    "My apologies, Ah Yue," Wang Li kept him pressed to the wall with hands at his hips, "I miss touching you and seeing you when I wake."


    Wang Li ran his fingers across his lover''s milky freckled cheeks and watched the flutter of golden lashes. Kissing the top of the blonde''s forehead, he stepped back slowly to make sure Ying Yue was able to stand on his own. Once he was satisfied his lover was okay, he stepped out of the room and closed the door.


    Wiping his face, he crossed his arms and closed his silver eyes.


    ''He told me not here¡­ and I kept¡­ What''s wrong with me? Why do I just want to-''


    ''-eat him, taste his entire bone, break him, grind him into dust. He is nothing. He is weak.''


    He opened his eyes narrowly and felt the heat of blood reaching the mark Ye Wu made under his left eye. Taking deep breaths, he continued to do so until he could hear Sheng Shui speaking with the female instead of his own heartbeat boiling with rage. He continued to do so, until he could feel Ying Yue''s sliver of energy wrapped around his own. He continued until he could feel the guilt of what he had done to his best friend fill his soul.


    "Ah Li," the soft voice sounded behind him and he turned, only to have his breath knocked out of him.


    Ying Yue looked eloquent and elegant, as if the robe were made for him. He was itching to just throw the blonde over his shoulder and ravage him in his room, make him scream out loud, make him bleed-


    "How do I look?" Ying Yue smiled at him and the king nodded with a smile, afraid some other words would escape his lips. Reaching in to grab his lover''s old robes, he held them in one hand and held his lover''s hand in another.


    "Ah Shui, I will pay for this as well when I return," Wang Li grinned at the seam master who frowned at him, while Ying Yue waved his goodbyes and apologized on their way out.


    "Ah Li," the blonde intertwined their fingers, "Why are we rushing back to the palace?"


    The Ghost King did not reply and walked faster toward the entrance. Ying Yue was worried and thought maybe Wang Li was starting to feel the need to create chaos. He was here, so there shouldn''t be that need and if there were¡­ he will do anything he can to help his lover. With that in mind, once they entered the palace grounds and entered Wang Li''s room, he waited to see what his king was going to do.


    "Delicious," Wang Li stated darkly after he closed the door.


    "What?" The blonde creased his forehead as he watched the man stalk toward him.


    "You look delicious, Ah Yue," the Ghost King stated deeply into his ear and then he was lost in lips once more. Ying Yue couldn''t help how his body softened under the touch of his lover or how his body craved for his king as well. He let out a shiver when fingers touched the bare skin of his collar bones down to his chest.


    Bodies pressed together and hips moved and grinds and¡­ dear heavens¡­ he is going to-


    "Ah Li, stop, I''m going to-" Ying Yue squealed and twerked as the feeling became overwhelming.


    Wang Li did not stop, he did not pause, he kept moving and sucking leaving little red spots over his skin. His golden eyes were in tears and he screamed when he felt teeth pierced his pulse point at the curve of his neck.


    Pain. It felt like the Ghost King had tear into his spiritual essence as if to rip him apart. He was crying and he felt his lover stilled above him.


    Wang Li''s eyes were widened and his lips were covered in the blonde''s blood. Releasing the skin he pulled away to see the pain etched all over his lover. He pulled away and stumbled backwards until he felt the wall behind him.


    "Please¡­" Ying Yue cried softly and the king felt bile in his throat at what he''s done. He rushed out of the room and shut the door, leaving a broken lonely blonde on the bed bleeding.


    "Please don''t leave me."

 Chapter 71 - I Am No Longer Pure

    Outside the room, Wang Li was to busy puking out his stomach. He felt sick and disgusted at himself for what he''s done. He hurt Ying Yue. He hurt him! Digging his nails into his palms, he ran to his aunt and opened the door, startling the female. He dropped down and clutched his aunt by the knees and pressed his forehead against them.


    "What has happened, nephew," the white haired female rubbed his cheeks, "You are in tears."


    Silver eyes shut and he tucked his face away from her knowing eyes. He felt fingers run through his hair and he relaxed his tension. The sound of humming lulled his anger temporarily and he let out a sigh.


    "My child, you''ve only run to me like this when something bad has happened. Tell me what it is?"


    "I hurt him, auntie. I truly am evil."


    "Do you wish for him to leave?"


    Wang Li did not reply and turned to look pitifully at his elder, "I hurt him and made him cry. He should go back to his brothers. I''m¡­ I''m not good for him."


    "Oh child," she sighed and wiped those tears, "Tell auntie what you did to make him cry."


    "I¡­ didn''t listen when he told me to stop and I¡­ I bit him¡­ I am a monster auntie. I deserve to die for what I did."


    Yun held the king''s face in her hands, but all she saw was the little boy who worried too much, who was placed to be something he shouldn''t be. Pulling her hands away, she flicked his nose and sighed.


    "You love him, do you not?" She asked to see the raven-haired man nod his head, "Then you must do everything to regain his trust and love. If he wishes to leave, then let him. If he wishes to forgive you, then you must work hard."


    Wang Li looked away and nodded staring at the ground. She stood up and went to grab some ointments to assist with the healing process for the wound. Yun walked over to her nephew and told him to stand.


    He''s taller than her, but Yun only saw a child.


    "Here," she placed the medicine on his palm, "You are not evil, nephew. You are special and the Heavens made a mistake of choosing you," she cupped his face and stared intently at the boy, "Because they will also bow down to you."


    "That is a terrible thought auntie," the young king frowned, "Why would I want the Heavens to bow to me?"


    "For putting their responsibilities onto you, sweet child. Remember what I''ve told you."


    "Yes, auntie," Wang Li nodded and bowed to her, "Thank you."


    She saw the Ghost King hesitate for a moment, before walking out of her room. Frowning, she crossed her arms and wondered why this was occurring if the other chosen was here. The blonde was to bring good and her nephew brought evil. If that was the case¡­


    Her eyes narrowed deadly as she thinned her lips.


    ''What are you planning, Jade Emperor? What more do you wish from them?''


    Wang Li stood in front of his room with the medicine in hand. Knocking softly on the door, he didn''t hear anyone inside. Fear crept in his bones and he wondered if Ying Yue had ran back home away from him.


    Swallowing the anxiety, he slid the panel opened and saw the sleeping figure. His heart stuttered and swelled, before it clenched and sunk. He called for a servant to bring him a bowl of warm water and towels.


    Closing the door, he placed the items beside the blonde and stared. Such beauty he possessed in his hands and yet¡­ he made his lover bleed and cry and hurt and¡­ and¡­


    He wrung the wet towel and took a deep breath. He carefully wiped his lover''s face clean from the tears, wiped the red marks he had left on pale skin, and wiped the dried blood from the mark he made.


    As a chosen, they would heal quicker than everyone else, but that does not mean the wounds are easily forgotten. Wang Li was sure Ying Yue would always remember him hurting him. The blonde should¡­ the Ghost King was a monster. He was a monster.


    "Wang Li," his silver eyes returned to his lover''s face and was captured by golden eyes, "Ah Li¡­ please¡­"


    The king quickly got off the bed and kneed down, bowing with his forehead pressed to the ground.


    "I apologize, Ah Yue. I am heartless and, in my mindlessness, I hurt you."


    It was quiet as he waited for what the blonde would say or do. The guilt was rotting his insides and peeling out his layers of stability. He heard sniffling and he looked up worriedly at his lover.


    "Ah Li," Ying Yue cried softly, "Don''t leave me."


    His silver eyes widened and he crawled onto the bed to wrap his arms around his lover. He didn''t understand why his best friend was crying and begging for him to not leave him. Should it not be the other way around? He was the one who hurt him. It was him so why was he¡­


    "I will never, Ah Yue."


    "You did, you left¡­ I was hurting and you left me," Ying Yue cried against him and tightened his hold on his king.


    Wang Li stilled in his arms and Ying Yue forced himself not to cry harder. The Ghost King said he wouldn''t leave him, that he held his heart, that he loved him, and yet¡­ he left when¡­ after¡­


    "I thought¡­ I couldn''t¡­ I hurt you, do you understand, Ah Yue," his lover pulled his head up to look into watery silver eyes, "I should never had done that when you asked me to stop¡­ I should''ve! I don''t want you to cry, I don''t want to be the one to make you cry. You should leave me, Ah Yue."


    He searched his lover''s face and cupped the raven-haired man''s cheeks.


    "Do you want me to leave?"


    "No."


    "Then I won''t leave."


    "But I-"


    He kissed his lover on the lips and laid down beside him.


    "Was that why you left? Because you bit me too hard?" Ying Yue questioned for clarification and Wang Li held his hand against his face.


    "I left because I did not listen. I lost my self-control and hurt you. I deserve no forgiveness, Ah Yue."


    "Did I not tell you already, Ah Li? I will always forgive you," he leaned forward and wanted to kiss his lover, but he winced from the slight pain on his neck. The Ghost King gave him an apologetic kiss and sat up to reach for the ointment.


    Dabbing it onto his fingers, Wang Li stared at the wound with thinned lips and a dip of his brows. Glaring at it as he rubbed the liquid around the mark, he felt fingers traced the silver plum blossoms on his robe. Letting out a sigh from his nose, he finished his work and placed the ointment back onto the stand.


    "I thought you left because¡­ well¡­" Ying Yue spoke softly and watched his lover''s eyes slid to his face.


    He let out a short laugh at himself and felt his face reddened in embarrassment. He saw Wang Li lay beside him, not touching any part of him, but watching him with saddened eyes as those silver eyes continued to move to the mark on his neck.


    "Ah Li¡­ it will heal. I didn''t cry because of the pain¡­ not really¡­" he reached for his king''s hand and placed it against his heart, "¡­uh¡­ it''s just¡­" he looked away from Wang Li and bit his lips.


    "What is it, Ah Yue? Whatever it is, I am sorry."


    "It''s just¡­ I¡­ I am no longer pure," he whispered quietly and he looked at his lover from under his lashes.


    His face was flushed and his heart was pounding loudly in his ears. He saw the creased forehead of his lover before silver eyes widened. They moved down to his pelvis then quickly to search his blushing face. Ying Yue saw the redness brushed across his king''s cheeks and ears.


    "Do you¡­ still want me? I mean, I am not¡­" he tightened his hold on Wang Li''s hand against his heart.


    "Ying Yue¡­ you mean¡­" the Ghost King breathed out a smile, "I will always want you. Are you¡­ okay? I know you didn''t want to and I..."


    "I don''t know¡­ it happened so fast and¡­" the blonde paused for a moment and smiled, "You promise you won''t leave me?"


    "I promise. You will always own my heart, Ah Yue, but I fear I may hurt you again."


    Ying Yue also had that fear, but he also knew he could fight the Ghost King if he really wanted to, but he didn''t. Maybe it was fear of losing his lover or maybe it was the arousal of how much Wang Li wanted him, he wasn''t sure. All he knew was that his king would not had wanted to hurt him on purpose.


    ''I will save you, Wang Li,'' he ran his fingers across the mark under his lover''s left eye and smiled, ''I will find a way,'' he watched silver eyes closed relaxed.


    He hesitantly leaned in and kissed those perfect thin lips.


    ''I promise.''

 Chapter 72 - I Will Always Choose You

    Ying Yue was soaking in the hot spring with his back leaned against the edge. He already finished cleaning himself, but he did not want to leave quite yet. Wang Li¡­ his king had squeezed his hand so hard; it woke him up. It was still dark outside and he looked sleepily at his lover. He saw the creased forehead and sweat slipping down the Ghost King''s hairlines.


    "Ah Yue¡­" he heard from those thin lips and the squeeze on his hand tightened.


    "I am here," the blonde said soothingly as he wiped at the sweat, "I am here."


    Ying Yue watched as the crease lifted and settled. He felt his hand loosened in Wang Li''s grip and the soft sound of breathing returned. He had tucked himself closer to his lover and fell asleep against the soft beats of his king''s heart.


    ''Ah Li¡­'' he breathed out into the morning air, ''¡­ since I''ve been here, have I been hurting you more instead of helping you?''


    He thought back to when his king cried, it was the first time he had ever seen Wang Li shed tears. It broke his heart to know it was him who brought it. He understood that Wang Li felt he had hurt him and had panic. He also panicked because of what transpired as well, though for different reasons. He touched the bite mark on his neck and it was healing quickly, but he could feel the scabs forming over it.


    ["You must stay pure, Ying Yue."


    "Pure? What does that even mean, master?"


    "To be kind and clean, stray away from evil and indecent thoughts. If you''ve been tainted by impurity, Ying Yue, you will not succeed in your mission."]


    ''Then I have failed, master. What shall I do now? Does that mean I would not be able to help Ah Li?'' He wondered and closed his eyes with a sigh. He heard footsteps near him and he turned to see his lover.


    "You are awake, Ah Li," he smiled at the raven-haired male, "How did you sleep?"


    "Better," Wang Li replied and removed his garments, "I thought I dreamt it all."


    "What do you mean?" Ying Yue watched his lover entered the warm pool, bare and naked, and so very beautiful. Looking away, he felt his face flushed from how lovely Wang Li was. His king moved to the opposite end of him and looked adoringly at his body. The blonde looked shyly away with a smile.


    "That I hurt you."


    Ying Yue blinked that in and looked at the male, but he saw his lover''s strong back instead.


    ''He thought¡­ everything was a dream? That I¡­''


    He moved closer to his king and pressed his bare chest against the expanse of his lover''s back. Wrapping his arms around the raven-haired man''s waist, he placed a kiss where shoulder blades met.


    "I am here, Ah Li. I am here," he said softly and squeezed a little tighter before pulling away. He took the soap bar to rub against the king''s skin and began washing the man. He soaped up his lover''s torso and down his arms to circle around the back.


    "Ah Yue, are you not afraid of me?" Wang Li whispered when the blonde moved back to his chest.


    "Should I be?" Ying Yue smiled at him and ran soapy fingers down his hips.


    "Yes."


    "Are you afraid of me, Ah Li?" The blonde questioned back.


    "No."


    "Even when you know that my purpose is to kill you. You are still not afraid?"


    "I accept my fate, Ah Yue."


    Ying Yue grinned and laughed softly to press chest to chest.


    "And I accept mine."


    He felt the sigh against his face and he closed his eyes. He felt lips against his and he relaxed into the kiss. Soft and gently they moved as hands stayed above their waist. They pulled away and he searched his king''s face for anymore signs of guilt or sadness.


    "One day, Ah Yue, we will have no reason to accept fate, but to wield it of our own will."


    "Eh, why do I feel worried about that?"


    "What worries you, my love?" Wang Li smoothed his finger down milky skin.


    "If we were to have our own choosing¡­ I fear you would not choose me."


    He saw his king laugh with crinkles at the corner of his eyes and the curl of his lips. Another kiss, another laugh that puffs across his face.


    "I will always choose you," his lover admitted and left a lasting kiss on his lips that buzzed all the way down his toes. Wang Li pulled his lips away, but he moved forward to catch them again. Over and over they kissed and live in one another''s breath, as if they were the only two in the world.


    "My king, my-" a male servant stopped suddenly and bowed, "My, my apologies. There is someone at the front asking for you, my king. He brought a female who has a sickness."


    "Bring him to the courtyard and inform my aunt," Wang Li spoke up and the servant bowed to leave. The Ghost King grabbed his hand and pulled him out of the water to dry off. Once both are presentable, Wang Li did not let go of the blonde''s hand until he went to the female writhing on the floor.


    "My king, please. Please save my daughter."


    The man begged and he moved to the other side of the female. There were black markings on her skin and a veil of dark energy marked her. It was barely noticeable, but the blonde felt as if he felt this energy before.


    "What ailment do you feel?" Wang Li questioned and placed his palm over the female, hovering up and down her body.


    The female did not say anything, but Wang Li closed his eyes and nodded feeling the rush of pain. Placing his palm at the girl''s head, he placed the other on her stomach. Soon the writhing slowed and the female was breathing normal once more. Ying Yue saw the marks disappeared and the energy moved up his lover''s arm before the Ghost King soaked it into himself.


    The blonde looked worriedly at his king but said nothing until they were alone. What was this? What was it that Wang Li did to help this woman? What was the cost?


    "Father?" The female questioned and her father rushed to her.


    "Oh, thank you my king! Thank you! May the Heavens'' bless you. Thank you, thank you."


    "If I may ask, sir, how did this come to be?" Ying Yue questioned.


    "I came home from my work and found my daughter screaming in her room. It did not look like anything I can heal with medicine. Thankfully my king is kind, or else my daughter would''ve died," the man stated bowing once more to Wang Li.


    "I was sleeping and had a nightmare. It was terrifying and I could not escape it. When I woke, I am here with you, Sir, and my king," the female bowed to them.


    "Here," Yun walked forward with a bottle of medicine and a talisman, "Take three drops from the bottle every day, that includes you," she looked at the father, "Place the talisman outside of your door. If this occurs again, come here immediately."


    "Thank you, Madame Yun."


    The two bowed and left grateful and happy.


    Ying Yue smiled and turned to Wang Li to compliment him, but the man in red coughed out blood. Golden eyes widened and his heart was beating uncontrollably with worry. Holding his lover up, he looked at Yun with wide eyes and furrowed brows. Pulling out a red handkerchief from his sleeve pocket, Ying Yue wiped his lover''s bloody lips.


    "Take him to his room," Yun stated and he helped the king to his room. Once he placed him on the bed, Ying Yue was afraid to leave his lover''s side.


    "You still have it," Wang Li whispered leaning his head against his shoulder.


    "Have what? Are you okay? What is happening, Ah Li? Are you sick?" He questioned trying to figure out what happened.


    "I will be fine, Ah Yue. Do not worry," he felt his lovers fingers wrapped around his, "You still have this. I gave it to you so long ago."


    He glanced down to their fingers and saw that his lover was talking about the red handkerchief Wang Li gave him when they were just children. Smiling at it, he turned his head and kissed the top of his lover''s head.


    "It is very beautiful, Ah Li. I could not bear to lose it," he admitted and heard the soft laugh at his shoulder.


    "I am glad," his lover''s voice was soft like a distant memory and Ying Yue picked his head up to look at those hazy silver eyes. He kissed those lips and tasted his king''s blood, but all the blonde could think of was what was happening to his lover.


    ''Was Wang Li going to die?''

 Chapter 73 - Kiss Me Like Before

    "Ah Yue," the Ghost King let out a puff of a laugh, "You left the door opened."


    "I do not care, Ah Li," he shook his head and searched his lover''s face with furrowed brows.


    "I hope you don''t regret that," Wang Li whispered and he was about to reply, but a knock on the wall caught their attention.


    "Madame Yun stated to drink all of this medicine before drinking the tea," the white-haired boy informed bowing and placing the items at the side table.


    "Thank you, Ah Shen," Ying Yue smiled at him and the young man bowed to him.


    "My apologies for interrupting."


    "No, you weren''t¡­ I mean¡­ we were just¡­" Ying Yue flushed hearing himself try to make an excuse.


    "Ah Shen, come here," Wang Li breathed out amused at his lover. The white-haired man stood before his king and waited. The Ghost King placed a palm on the boy''s chest and closed his eyes.


    Ying Yue watched interested and wondered what his lover was doing.


    "Ah Shen, are they treating you well?"


    "Yes, my king."


    "Were you worried from earlier?"


    Shen did not reply but looked down and felt himself pulled forward. He flushed as his king''s soothing hand rubbed his back and he found himself crumpling into the Ghost King''s hold. Tucking his head at the nape, he stifled his cries. After a moment, his king pulled his head back and wiped his tears away.


    "I will be fine, Ah Shen. Do not worry like Ah Yue."


    "Ah Li," the blonde frowned, but the curl of his lips curled amusedly.


    "If I retrieve Madame Yun in time, then you wouldn''t need to do that again. You almost-"


    Shen stopped himself and slid down to his knees to bow. He was truly useless now as he was then.


    "Fu Shen," Wang Li ran his fingers through white locks, "Would you make it for me? That meal from before? I have not had it in so long."


    "You had it three nights ago," Shen mumbled and his king laughed.


    "Is that not too long?" Wang Li grinned and Shen just stared at his king, taking in the shine in those silver eyes and the curl of those lips.


    Nodding his head, Shen stood up and bowed to both of Heaven''s chosen before leaving the room. Wang Li let out a sigh and wrapped his fingers around the blonde''s.


    "He is a good boy. If I ever hurt him, Ah Yue, take him away from here."


    "I would let you hurt me before you could hurt him."


    His silver eyes locked with golden ones before they softened. Kissing his lover''s hand, he pressed his forehead against Ying Yue''s shoulder and closed his eyes.


    "Ah Li, if you follow Madame Yun''s instructions, we could¡­" the blonde smiled shyly.


    Wang Li let out a chuckle and kissed that terrible mark, the one he made on his lover''s neck. Drinking the medicine, he scrunched his face from the repulsive taste. Pouring himself some tea, he handed a cup to the blonde.


    He closed his eyes and felt himself relaxed. The pain he pulled from the female was subsiding within him, but there was an echo of darkness. Was it Ye Wu''s doing or was it another demon roaming the villages?


    "Do you not wish to know why I was coughing blood?" Wang Li questioned looking at his lover.


    "I wish to know, yes, but I¡­ how can you be evil when you are a healer, Ah Li?" Ying Yue looked away, "And how can I be truly good when I am no longer pure? When I have thoughts that are¡­ impure? Maybe the heavens made a mistake in choosing us, Ah Li, but I thank them for bringing me to you."


    Wang Li felt his heart softened from that confession and took their cups away to place on the table. He stood to remove his robes and watched as his lover removed his as well. Down to their undergarment, the king stared at the man as his fingers tucked strands of blonde.


    "Ah Yue, we do not have to do anything."


    "I know, but¡­ I want to."


    "Tell me what you want to do. If I do not listen, please stop me."


    "I will," Ying Yue smiled and pressed his lips to his lover''s, "Kiss me like before, Ah Li."


    Wang Li did.


    He could feel his king''s lips and tongue play him so easily. He was losing his breath, but he would not turn for air. He just wanted those taste his lover''s lips over and over. He felt his legs weak and he wrapped his arms around his lover''s neck. He felt the bed against his back and hands, oh large strong hands, kneading their way up and down his skin. Lips moved down his neck and grazed over the scab to suck lightly against his nub.


    His hips bucked up and he felt Wang Li''s manhood against his. Moaning, he rubbed up again and felt his lover grind his teeth gently against his nipple. His fingers dug into black hair and tongue smoothed around the bud. He felt fingers slid under his bottoms and felt around the skin, thumbing the dip of his hips.


    "My love," Wang Li breathed against his ear and he turned his head to capture those lips.


    "Ah," Ying Yue breathed out when his lover''s palm slid up his abdomen and lightly grazed his nails along his upper pelvis.


    "What do you want me to do?" The king questioned and kissed along his cheek down his jawline.


    "I don''t know, I just¡­ Ah Li," Ying Yue moaned loudly when he felt fingers grazed his hardness. A slid across his leaking bulb made him yelp and his hips twitched. Lips kissed him again and mouth sucked his breathe away, as he enjoyed the tortuously slow strokes from his lover.


    "Ah Li¡­ I¡­ I love you," he panted out, breathing hot breath against the king''s face.


    "I love you too, Ah Yue," Wang Li moved his hand faster and he gasped loudly as his stomach coiled with need for release, "Come, my love. Let me see you."


    Just from those words, Ying Yue felt like his entire mind whited out in ecstasy. He could still feel his lover pumping him and his body burned as if it was in flames.


    ''This feeling was¡­ it felt so¡­ wow¡­'' his brain provided as his body shook.


    "Ah Yue," he heard the king spoke gently wiping the sweat plastered hair from his face, "You''re so beautiful."


    He breathed out a smile and hummed when his lover removed his fingers. Placing a soft kiss on his wet parted lips, Wang Li pulled back and hovered above him. He saw the Ghost King pulled the hand that was wrapped around him to his lips.


    His golden eyes widened as he watched that deadly tongue swiped through fingers to taste him. Flushing even harder than he already was, he pulled the hand away from those lips and looked shyly at the bed.


    He heard soft laughter from Wang Li and felt a kiss upon his temple, before a hand cupped under his chin. The Ghost King reached his other hand into his own bottoms and stared intently at him. Ying Yue watched as his lover''s breathing became quicker and his lips become wetter. Silver eyes gazed at him half lidded and his lover''s groan¡­ oh it made his entire body shiver.


    His golden eyes could not look anywhere else but Wang Li''s face. It was mesmerizing and enchanting that when his lover came, it felt like he joined him in that bliss.


    They were kissing once more, and he sighed into it. That felt wonderful and the Ghost King did not lose his self-control like before. It must have been those robes they wore. Maybe he could ask Sheng Shui about it later, because right now, he just wanted to lay in bed with Wang Li and kiss him until they fall asleep.


    ==


    Ying Yue plucked the strings and moved along the wood, listening to the instructions from the elder. Finishing off the tune, he paused and looked across to the man in gray.


    "You learn quickly, Heaven''s Chosen," the elder nodded.


    "Thank you, master. You''ve taught me well."


    "Ah, you flatter me, young one. I do not think you need me anymore," the man suppose and went to reach for the musical instrument on the side of the wall, "A gift, child, for trusting me with your time. I am honored."


    Ying Yue brightened up seeing his music master was gifting him with a guqin. Holding it in his palms, he grinned and bowed to the man.


    "Thank you master. It has been an honor learning from you. May the heavens bless you."


    Ying Yue left the man''s home and returned to the village with a smile. He hid the instrument behind him and quickly went to his room and left the guqin there.


    Grinning to himself, he went to speak with Sheng Shui about the robes from earlier. Entering the shop, to see it was empty and he wondered if the blonde had left.


    "The shop is not opened. Please return tomorrow. I apologize."


    ''Ah Shui?''

 Chapter 74 - You Smell Like Him

    Ying Yue heard Sheng Shui''s voice and he neared it, wondering why his friend sounded sick. Rounding the counter, he saw the seam master huddled in the corner shivering. Quickly moving to him, Ying Yue kneeled beside him and touched his sweaty forehead.


    Topaz eyes slowly opened to stare at him and the man smiled.


    "Ah. Ah Yue, I am glad it is you and not Ah Li."


    "What has happened, Ah Shui?"


    "I just need rest, just tired," the blonde sighed and leaned against him, "You smell like him."


    He felt Sheng Shui nuzzled up against him and closed his orange eyes. Ying Yue held onto the man and pressed his palm to the back. He could feel the flow of the man''s blood move slower than it would and his spirit dulling. He held the man tighter and the blonde let out a laugh.


    "Mm, hold me any tighter and Ah Li would be jealous."


    "Ah Shui¡­ how long has this been happening?"


    "The very first time I fell in love with him."


    Ying Yue shut his eyes and held him tighter, tucking his head into blonde locks.


    "Don''t tell him, Ah Yue. He would worry. You should see him when I first got sick, I''ve never seen him look so frightened before."


    "I''m sorry, Ah Shui¡­ if I never met him than maybe-"


    "He would love me?" Sheng Shui finished and hummed, "Maybe. Who knows."


    The blonde sighed and Ying Yue just held him feeling guilty. If he was not so selfish to be close to his lover, maybe Sheng Shui and Wang Li would be together instead.


    "Ah Li should know, Ah Shui. He cares deeply for you. If you¡­ you are sick, Sheng Shui."


    "He would find out, Ying Yue, that he caused this."


    "What?"


    Sheng Shui sighed and pulled away from the blonde''s warmth.


    "Being friends with the Ghost King comes with a curse. It is said your lifespan would be cut in half because you''ve given up the other as a sacrifice. This is only a rumor, Ah Yue. I''m probably a sick child from the start," he turned to golden eyes and smiled.


    "You should not joke about this, Ah Shui. You are¡­"


    "Ah Shui?" The voice of their king spoke up.


    Sheng Shui looked at him with a smile before taking a deep breath and standing from where he was.


    "Ah, my handsome king, what brings you to me? Miss me already?"


    "Always," Wang Li grinned, "Why is the shop not lighted?"


    "Oh, just been a little tired," Sheng Shui sighed and placed his head in his hand, "Neh, don''t look like that. I am fine."


    "Ah Shui," the king frowned and neared him.


    "I''m sure I''d feel better if I get to soak in that hot spring of yours. Why don''t you invite me anymore? Is it cause of Ying Yue? Afraid I''d take him away from you?" The blonde grinned with wiggly brows. Wang Li curled his lips slyly as his eyes narrowed. He leaned close to the orange eyed man and saw the twinkle in those eyes.


    "You can try, Ah Shui, but Ah Yue is mine."


    "Oh my spoiled king, I''ve also tried and succeeded."


    "What?"


    Sheng Shui grinned and picked up a confused Ying Yue behind the counter who smiled at his lover.


    "Hello Ah Li."


    "What are you doing here?" The Ghost King frowned at him.


    "I came to ask Sheng Shui about the robes. What are you doing here?"


    "Wang Li came to pick on me like always, Ah Yue. Thankfully you are here to care for me," the seam master threw his hands around him and Ying Yue let out a laugh.


    "Is it alright if Sheng Shui comes with us to the palace, Ah Li? The hot spring would be good for Ah Shui," Ying Yue asked and turned to the king.


    Nodding his head, they walked out of the shop and headed through the village. Wang Li pulled his lover to him and kissed him deeply. When he pulled away, those golden eyes were dilated and mouth were wet with his saliva.


    "You are mine, Ying Yue," the Ghost King whispered deeply in his ear and he shivered. Glancing at the other blonde who was watching with a sadden smile, Ying Yue swallowed and pushed his lover gently away.


    "I will join you both in a moment, I just need¡­ to go¡­ do something," he cleared his throat and saw amusement in Wang Li''s lips.


    "Eh? Ah Yue, you can''t leave me alone with this terrible king, he would torture me to death," Sheng  Shui pouted, but soon a grin spread over his lips.


    "Ah Shui, do not make me regret it," the Ghost King stated though a smile stretched his lips.


    "Of course my dear precious can do no wrong king," the orange eyed man bowed playfully and turned to a Ying Yue, "Don''t take too long, Ah Yue. Who knows what indecent thoughts our king has when you are away."


    "Ah Shui!" Wang Li stifled his laugh, "I am already regretting it."


    "Fine fine, let''s go then," the grinning blonde turned to walk but felt a hand wrapped around his wrist. He was pulled another way and he turned to see his king shaking his head. Glancing at the golden eyed blonde, he mouthed a thank you and followed his king.


    Ying Yue watched them go and there was a slight sting in his heart. Was it jealousy? Was it pity? Was it guilt? He wasn''t sure, but he knew giving them time together is all he could do for his friend. He walked through the village and his mind took him to how his life would be without his king. It only provided how much Wang Li was etched into his entire life.


    "Who would I be without him?" He placed his hand on his cheek and frowned.


    "Let me go! Don''t touch me! Help! Please someone!"


    Ying Yue parked up and ran toward the sound. He found himself out of the village and to a worn out home. He could hear a fuss going on inside. Breaking the door opened by slamming his body, he saw men and women surrounding a young female.


    "What is going on?" He questioned stepping before the female.


    "He is Heaven''s Chosen," someone whispered but one of the female stepped forward.


    "I don''t care who you are. Leave and let us deal the punishment."


    "What has this female done to deserve this?"


    "She seduced a married man and flaunt it before his wife. Such obscene display must be punished," a thin man shouted and others joined in agreement.


    "Is that true, miss?" He questioned the female and she quickly shook her head.


    "No, no it is not. Please, I am just friendly and that man fell in love with me. I did not do anything but be nice. Is that so wrong?"


    Ying Yue stared at her for a moment and kneeled down.


    "I cannot help you if you lie, miss."


    The female''s eyes widened before her face scowled.


    "I am telling the truth! Are you not supposed to protect me? How dare you question me! They should be punished for hurting me! Do something about it!"


    "I am not here to protect only you, miss. I am here to help everyone. I understand what she has done is wrong," he stood and addressed the others, "What could she do to repent?"


    "Nothing!" A few shouted.


    "Kill her! She deserves to die."


    "May I suggest exile?" Ying Yue offered, "She will keep her life and leave this village alone."


    "I guess that''s ok." "I don''t see an issue with that." "I wish we could just kill her but I don''t want blood on my hands."


    "Wait! I don''t agree to this!" The female stood up pushing him to the side, "You all dare to kick me out? Are you that afraid of me stealing everything from you? You should be! You''re all pathetic piece of-"


    A slap rang through the shack and the female felt the blossoming red pain against her cheek.


    "Be honored Heaven''s Chosen came when he did, or you''d be burnt alive by now. You have until sundown to leave our town or our promise to him would be nulled," the older female stared deadly at the culprit.


    The slapped female got up and scowled before rushing out of the shack. Ying Yue frowned at the behavior of the female and turned to the others.


    "Thank you for agreeing. May the heavens bless you all."


    ==


    Sheng Shui was  soaking in the warm relaxing hot spring that only resided in the palace of the Ghost King. Leaning his head back, he stared at the petals of the plum blossoms flowing over him. Reaching his hands up, he held one in between his fingers and placed it under his nose. Closing his topaz eyes, he breathed in the smell of the petal before placing a gentle kiss upon it.


    Smiling, he placed it in the water and watched it float.


    "Ah Shui, I know something is bothering you. You are never this quiet."


    He watched his king moved toward him and he let out a smile.


    His king was too good to him.

 Chapter 75 - I Will Not Wake Again

    "You making fun of me?"


    Those silver eyes searched his face and a hand held his chin. He looked away with a relaxed grin as he thought about the memories they shared together.


    "Why didn''t you tell me your name, my king? Was I not important enough to know?" He whispered and looked into platinum eyes.


    "You are Important to me, Ah Shui."


    "As important as the villagers, I know," he rolled his eyes and Wang Li cupped his cheek.


    "I like when you call me your king."


    He stared at his king for a moment before a grin split across his face. Placing his hands on Wang Li''s chest, he circled his finger up and down the crevice.


    "Ah, do you now, my king? Does it turn you on? Do love the way I call you my king?" He teased with a grin and opened his mouth to say more, but Wang Li covered his mouth and moved closer to press against him.


    "Ah Shui," the Ghost King warned and Sheng Shui laughed against the king''s palm. His orange eyes twinkled with delight and he moved forward, but Wang Li pressed against him closer.


    His grin slowed back down and he searched his king''s face. Breathing out a smile, he ran his fingers down the man''s abdomen, enjoying the smooth ridges of muscles.


    ''Ah Li, maybe another life, but this one your heart belongs to another.''


    Pushing his king off him and he laughed trying to run out, but he felt his head dunked into the water. Sheng Shui quickly grabbed the back of Wang Li''s knee and lifted as he came up for air. His king fell behind him and he laughed loudly and looked over to see Ying Yue watching them with an undisguised look. Smiling at him, Sheng Shui called out with a wave.


    "Ah Yue! Save me! This unkind king is trying to drow-"


    Wang Li laughed as he held the seam master under water. Looking up, he saw his lover with a smile watching them.


    "Ah Yue," he called out and left the man spluttering for air, "Come join us."


    Ying Yue nodded and removed his robes leaving his bottoms on.


    "Eh? Ah Yue, please don''t hide the rest of your beauty. I''m sure we''ve seen it all," Sheng Shui wiggled his brows and Wang Li glared at the man.


    "We¡­ we have not¡­" Ying Yue flushed unsure what he was saying so he chose to stop talking.


    "Don''t be shy, my beautiful Ah Yue," the orange eyes blonde moved forward only to have his king pulled the platinum blonde against him, "Oh, jealous my king? We can share, no need to be so selfish."


    Ying Yue flushed brighter and was pulled to face Wang Li, while Sheng Shui held him from behind.


    "We will play together and let him watch," the seam master started with a sly smirk as fingers moved up his chest, "I''m sure he''d get really excited, maybe he''s excited now," he was pushed to be pressed up against his lover, and he stared with big eyes up at the raven-haired man, "Maybe we''d let him join later when he becomes a good benevolent king."


    He felt fingers skimmed down in between both Wang Li and him, brushing against their manhood and he gasped. The Ghost King pressed him against his chest and gritted his teeth. The seam master laughed loudly and his king gripped the laughing blonde''s shoulder.


    Wang Li opened his mouth to scold the man, but the shaking of laughter became the shaking of coughs.


    "Ah Shui! Ah Shui!"


    ''So soon,'' Sheng Shui thought as darkness covered him.


    Blood dripped into the water.


    ==


    Ying Yue sat beside Wang Li as they watched the slow rise and fall off Sheng Shui''s chest. Pouring the warm tea, he handed the cup to his king and poured one for himself. Madame Yun had came by and told them there was nothing she could do to help. It only made Wang Li looked more desperate and heartbroken.


    "Tell me, Ah Li, tell me how you two met."


    "His grandfather made beautiful intricate clothing before he did. When I met him, I hated him," there was a soft smile on his thin lips, "He was too loud."


    Ying Yue laughed and leaned against his lover''s shoulder.


    "He said I looked best in red and made me a tunic," he continued softly, "It was the tunic when we first met, Ah Yue."


    "Really? That was so beautiful when I saw it! Ah Shui has a gift."


    "Yes, he does."


    "Ah Li¡­" there was a pause, "He¡­ he is¡­ dying."


    "Yes."


    "He will ascend to the heavens or go straight to the wheel of reincarnation. We may see him again with how long we live."


    Wang Li did not reply but reached to hold onto the unconscious man''s hand. Ying Yue stared at the man on the bed and had a way of saving him, but it was truly up to Sheng Shui whether or not he wish to stay. The heavens would be upset, but Wang Li would be happy.


    Wasn''t that what mattered?


    The next time he walked in, he saw Sheng Shui staring at a sleeping Wang Li. The man''s fingers hovered over the king face, outlining without touch. Orange eyes met golden ones and Ying Yue felt his hope flared. Quickly walking over, Sheng Shui smiled at him.


    "The next time I sleep," the seam master whispered softly, "I will not wake again."


    "Are you certain? Let me wake him," he went to place his hands on their king.


    "No, it is alright. There is a special robe I made for him in the back of my shop. There is also a letter I wrote. Would you give it to him?"


    "Of course," he nodded and felt his eyes watered, "Ah Shui¡­"


    "He deserves someone kind like you. Someone to live with him for as long as he lives."


    "Ah Shui, I can¡­ do you want to stay? Do you want to stay and not be reincarnated?"


    Orange eyes stared at him and searched his face with furrowed brows.


    "What are you offering, Ah Yue?"


    "I¡­" he hesitated before steeling himself, "I can hold your soul within mine. Our souls will merge to become one. I know¡­ it would mean you give up reincarnation and to live as you once again but¡­"


    "The heavens wouldn''t approve of this, Ah Yue."


    Ying Yue pursed his lips and shook the head.


    "You truly love him," Sheng Shui breathed out a smile, "To go against the heavens to keep me here, but Ah Yue, wouldn''t you want him all to yourself?"


    "He called out for you, Ah Shui," he smiled and saw the widening of topaz eyes, "He cried in bed and when I woke, he was here by your side. What does that mean, Ah Shui?"


    Orange eyes turned to look at the sleeping king for a moment and sighed.


    "I know he loves me, Ah Yue, but know that his love for me is not as deep as his love for you."


    "He loves us both and we love him."


    Sheng Shui let out a soft laugh and his king stirred. Silver eyes blinked slowly and turned to see his lover.


    "Ah Yue."


    "Did you sleep well?"


    "No."


    "Don''t tell me it''s because of me, my king."


    Silver eyes widened and turned to catch amused orange eyes.


    "Ah Shui, are you alright? What do you need?" He searched the seam master''s face.


    "Ah Li, Wang Li, my king," Sheng Shui said softly, "There are so many in your heart already, is there any room for me?"


    "You are a fool to think you are not already there."


    He grinned widely and hummed closing his eyes. He felt fingers tuck his strand behind his ears and he leaned into the touch.


    "May I have one kiss before I die?"


    He felt fingers stilled on his face and he opened his eyes to stare at silver ones mixed with emotions. He smiled and opened his mouth to talk, but he felt lips covered his before tongue dipped into his mouth. A few hesitant touches of their tongues and his king pulled back.


    Sheng Shui searched his face and then looked over at the platinum blonde.


    "I was just joking¡­" he forced a laugh, "But now that we kissed, I''d love to taste Ah Yue''s lips too. A dying man can have 2 wishes, can''t he?"


    "Ah Shui¡­" he felt hands cupped his face, "I know it is my fault you are dying. I will find a way to save you."


    He watched as his king pulled away and left the room, leaving both blondes alone.


    "Ah Yue, I really was just joking. I didn''t think he''d actually¡­"


    "You weren''t joking, Ah Shui, but you were not expecting it," Ying Yue smiled softly, "Was it what you expected?"


    "Even better," the seam master sighed, "I would be angry if I were you, Ah Yue. I could not be friends with another who holds the heart of the man I love."


    "You are a terrible liar, Ah Shui," the platinum blonde laughed, "Are we not friends?"

 Chapter 76 - Leave Me Alone

    The man in bed laughed and then coughed for a moment. Catching his breath again, he closed his eyes and sighed.


    "I do want to stay¡­ Will it hurt?"


    "I¡­ do not know. This would be a first for me."


    "¡­"


    "I''ve only thought about it, Ah Shui. I don''t know anyone who has done it," Ying Yue looked down from where he sat and twiddled his thumbs, "If I don''t succeed, Ah Shui, your soul¡­ it would tear and¡­"


    Sheng Shui reached out and placed his hand on top of Ying Yue''s hands and smiled at him.


    "I trust you, Ah Yue. Do it now before he comes back."


    He searched the seam master''s face before nodding. Taking a deep breath, he placed his hands over the other blonde''s body and exhaled. Concentration filled his face as he focused on the feel of the man''s soul. He called to it, felt around it, before tugging.


    He heard a grunt from the man and did his best to go slow as he could. It felt as if there was something holding the seam master''s soul back, but he didn''t give up. Sending in his own energy through his palms, he wrapped around his friend like a protection and pulled. The rush of Sheng Shui''s golden soul ran against him like a hug and he took in a deep breath.


    Opening his eyes, he had to blink multiple times for clarity. He pressed his hands against his chest and let out a breath.


    He did it. Sheng Shui is now within him.


    "I knew you would ascend¡­" he whispered and stood only to stumbled. Reaching for the wall, he placed a hand on his head and clenched his eyes. Once his body stilled, he shook off the thumping in his head and went to open the door.


    "Please tell Wang Li¡­ Sheng Shui has passed."


    The servant at the door rushed away and he slid down the wall. Closing his golden eyes, he heard the shuffling of clothes and footsteps. He looked to see Wang Li shaking and crying out at the man on the bed. Pushing himself up, he saw a few in the room turn to him as he stood up.


    "Ah Li," he whispered and touched his king''s shoulder, but the man shook him off. He tried again, but a growl escaped the raven haired male.


    "Leave me alone!"


    His golden eyes widened and he backed away from his lover who was still clinging onto the dead man. Ying Yue fisted his hands and rushed out of the room, the palace, out of the village. Tears flowed freely down his eyes and he wiped at them. He wanted to go to his home on the hills where his brothers were. He wanted to feel the comfort of his master''s embrace. He did not want to feel this sadness.


    He stared out into the lake and saw the shimmering of the water. He closed his eyes and hesitated in leaving Wang Li alone like he asked, but his promise held him back. Turning away, he went to Sheng Shui''s shop and tucked himself in the back where the man slept.


    Wang Li was pulled away from the dead body of his friend into warm arms of his aunt. He held onto the female for a while, before calming down.


    "We will clean his body, nephew. Let him burn down the river with lotuses to return to the Heavens."


    He nodded and watched as the body of the seam master lose it''s last blood. He looked around and noticed his lover was not there.


    "Ah Yue?" He questioned aloud and looked tiredly at his aunt.


    "He left you alone."


    "Why?"


    His aunt shook her head and went to order the servants what and where to go. He turned to Chu and Hien to ask where the platinum blonde had gone. He saw them look at one another before the blue haired female looked at him with pity.


    "Ah Li, you yelled at him when he tried to help you. We don''t know where he went."


    ''What?!'' Wang Li rushed out of the room and looked around the courtyard, his room, the hot spring, and then Ying Yue''s room. He laid down on the unused bed and stared blankly at the wall before him.


    His silver eyes showed a sliver of red.


    ==


    Ying Yue stared at the box that Sheng Shui had requested him to bring back to Wang Li. He had not seen the man for a couple nights and he sighed. Holding the box in his hands, he proceeded to leave with the gift. Leaving the shop in the early morning air, the blonde noticed a silver butterfly perched on the entrance curtain.


    It flew up and around him, leaving sparkles of glitter before landing at his shoulder.


    "Ah Yue, come home."


    His golden eyes widened before a soft smile curled at his lips. Walking to the palace, he saw Wang Li at the entrance staring off with no focal point. He walked toward his lover and felt the cold breeze flew by like the coming of a storm.


    Wang Li slid his silver eyes to him and his king''s face went hard.


    "Ah Li," he said softly and looked down at the present wrapped in red.


    "You left me."


    "You asked me to."


    "I did not mean it!"


    "You did."


    "Ah Yue!"


    Ying Yue felt the back of his head pulled forward and his lover''s lips drank him fully. When the Ghost King pulled back, he could feel the bruising on his lips.


    "You belong to me, Ying Yue. Must I remind you?"


    "Yes," he replied but quickly caught himself, "I mean¡­"


    "I will go crazy if you leave me again, Ah Yue."


    His king ran his thumb across his cheek gently and stared at him as if he was a ghost sent to haunt him. Wrapping his fingers around his lover''s wrist, Ying Yue sighed.


    "Don''t tell me to leave."


    "Forgive me¡­ I didn''t know it was you. I wouldn''t have said that."


    The blonde ran his fingers down the Ghost King''s face to his jawline. Pulling away, he pushed the box toward the raven haired man.


    "This is a gift from Ah Shui. He wanted me to give it to you."


    Wang Li held it in his arms and glanced at it before looking into his golden eyes. His silver eyes looked at him forlornly like lovers at the midst of goodbye. Ying Yue offered a smile and glanced at the gift.


    "Did you sleep well, Ah Li?"


    "You know I didn''t."


    "Mm, neither did I."


    Wang Li suddenly dropped the gift and reached for him to hold him tightly. His own arms circled around the man in red and found comfort in those arms once more. His lover cupped the back of his neck, emitting a shiver from him.


    "I''ve missed you, Ah Yue."


    Letting out a soft laugh, he felt his king pulled his head back.


    "Is it humorous?"


    "Don''t be upset, Ah Li," Ying Yue grinned, "I''m just happy you''ve missed me too."


    Silver eyes relaxed and softened. Lips pressed against his gently and he sighed into the kiss. When they pulled away, Ying Yue picked up the red covered gift.


    "Ah Shui would be upset to see how you treated his gift for you, Ah Li."


    "You are correct."


    Wang Li took the red box back and kissed his cheek. Wrapping his hand around his lover''s, they walked into the palace and Ying Yue was brought to a small shrine near the wall of the library. Plum blossoms scattered around the small shrine where a painting of the seam master was centered. Ying Yue couldn''t help how nicely painted it was and accurate. From the dimples to the brightness of topaz eyes, no one could mistaken it for another.


    Wang Li looked at his love to see him observing the small shrine. Smiling, he lifted the platinum blonde''s hand up to press his lips on the knuckles. Golden eyes crinkled at the end pleased by his display of affection and he looked back at the shrine.


    "As a memory for him. Ah Yue, we will send him off tonight under the moon at the river. Will you join me?"


    "Yes," Ying Yue leaned into him and looked nervously as the blonde chewed his bottom lip, "I have something to tell you."


    "What is it?"


    He looked at the man in red and tightened his hold on his lover''s hand. Pulling him away and to the king''s room, he shuffled his feet. He saw Wang Li placed the red box gently onto the table and walked toward him with furrowed brows.


    "Ah Yue, are you sick? I cannot lose you too," the Ghost King said it with such sternness that he felt his heart jumped. Whether it was from fear or astonishment, he wasn''t too sure.


    "No, I''m not sick but¡­ Ah Li¡­ Ah Shui¡­ I¡­ I have his soul."

 Chapter 77 - Lick Your Entire Body

    He looked at the man in red and he saw silver eyes darkened and lips thinned out. Wang Li walked up to him and he could feel the tension coming off him. His lover placed a palm over his chest and he could feel Wang Li''s emotions close up.


    "Why?"


    "I¡­ he wanted to stay, Ah Li. I offered the chance for him and now he''s here with me¡­ with us."


    Ying Yue placed his hand over his lover''s, but Wang Li pulled his hand away and turned around sharply.


    "He should reincarnate. Why would he stay? And you!" The Ghost King turned to him and pointed, "Why do it?! You know something like that is forbidden and you could have died!"


    "I did it for you!" The blonde shouted back as tears welled up his eyes, "I know how much you care for him and how much he cared for you. I don''t want to see you sad, Wang Li. I am here to help you, make you feel better, but I keep making you angry and I don''t understand why! I don''t¡­"


    He felt arms wrapped around him and he leaned into the embrace of his lover. Wang Li held him and rubbed his back. He felt the raven-haired male pull away and held his face. Kisses were placed where his tears fell, removing the fear of failure.


    "Thank you, Ying Yue, for doing this for me and Ah Shui," the Ghost King breathed against his face as thumbs caressed his cheeks, "I have made you cry many times since you''ve been with me. I am no good for you, Ah Yue."


    "Are you calling me a crybaby?" The light blonde murmured with a pout.


    "Maybe," Wang Li smiled amused.


    "Ah Li," he let out a laugh and his lover breathed it in. Lips curled and tongue licked gently inside his mouth. His fingers slid down bare neck to play at the collarbone, before slipping underneath the red robe. His palm caressed his king''s right tattooed chest and thumbed the nub.


    "Ah Yue," the Ghost King breathed out a laugh, "You keep touching me like that and I will throw you down and lick your entire body," there was a mischievousness in his lover''s tone against his ear and it caused his body to shiver, "Baby."


    His body flushed and he felt emboldened as he moved his palm down to his lover''s navel.


    "You wouldn''t," he bit his bottom lip as he leaned in to kiss the exposed shoulder of his king''s, due to the red robe slipping off.


    "Hm, careful my love, you are starting to sound like Ah Shui."


    "Is that wrong?"


    "It''s different."


    "Well¡­ I do have Ah Shui''s memories and he¡­ he is quite imaginative," Ying Yue flushed.


    "Hm?"


    "Did you know he¡­ made love with many people?" He asked and searched his king''s face to see no change in those eyes, "You¡­ do."


    "Ah Shui is handsome. He enjoys himself often. I do not judge, Ah Yue."


    ''But he thinks of you when he''s with them¡­''


    Smiling at him, Ying Yue kissed him again and bit softly at his lover''s lip. Letting out a giggle, he fell onto the bed with Wang Li over him.


    His king did as he said.


    Long tongue slid across his lips and up his jawline to his ear. A swirl and nip at the lobe before it left a wet trail down the curve of his neck. Ying Yue lifted the corner of his lips and spread his legs to let his lover in between them. He earned a suck at his pulse point making him moan.


    Ying Yue felt fingers at his hips and he quickly flipped them. This was a new position for him and he couldn''t help flushing deeply. Wang Li¡­ his lover and king was a magnificent being in his eyes.


    He pressed his palm on his lover''s bare chest and moved down to reveal more skin. Lean muscled torso glistened at him as if daring him to do something, anything. Licking his lips, he scratched below Wang Li''s navel gently to hear an intake of breath.


    Glancing at his lover''s face, Wang Li was about to sit up, but Ying Yue pressed his hands on his king''s wrists to still him. Silver eyes widened, before a shimmering spark glared at him. He shivered and felt his heart racing with the power of having his lover, his strong king, submit to him.


    His mouth watered and he swallowed. Grounding his hips forward, he gasped when he could feel how hard Wang Li was. He did it again and again, enjoying how the Ghost King panted and moaned.


    "Ah Yue," Wang Li breathed out as his own hips pressed up.


    The blonde let out a whimpering sigh and moved against his king more. The building of pressure was happening and the need for release became unbearable. Before he could finish, the door slid open and a voice stilled his climax as he struggled against moving.


    "Ah Li, when are you going to¡­" the words slowed down and the rest were mumbled out, "... beg Ah Yue back, but he is right here so I will go now!"


    Ying Yue felt his entire body red with embarrassment, but hot like the burning pit of a volcano. His body was shaking as if he was shivering from cold and he really hoped the female would not speak to others of what she saw. Almost letting out a relieved sigh from the intruder stating she would leave, the blonde bit his lips and blinked away the sweat hanging on his lashes.


    "Ah Chu," Wang Li spoke up and he blinked widely down at his lover.


    "Yes¡­ Ah Li¡­"


    "We will send him off tonight. Please let everyone know."


    "Will do."


    "Ah Chu."


    "Yes¡­"


    "How beautiful is Ah Yue?"


    Ying Yue inaudibly gasped, sucking in a breath as he gnawed his bottom lip. Sparkling amused silver eyes stared at him and lips curled at the ends slyly. His fingers twitched around his lover''s wrists as his eyes tried to convey how shameless this all felt.


    "Ah Li! You are trying to kill me from embarrassment!" The blue haired female pinched the king''s thigh and he saw the wince on his lover''s face.


    "I cannot believe this man! So shameless!" Chu mumbled on her way out of the room and shut the door.


    "Ah Li," he whispered and his lover pulled his held wrists down and pressed kisses to his pulses.


    "Go on, my love," Sultry eyes were aimed at him and he rolled his hips, "Finish what you started."


    The blonde leaned down and kissed the Ghost King''s lips as he moved once more. Their breaths mingled with their panting and he pressed kisses on his lover''s face. Ying Yue removed his fingers and quickly slipped his hand into the raven-haired male''s bottoms.


    He wrapped his hand around the hard shaft and earned a loud groan from his lover. Pumping faster, he nibbled and kissed down Wang Li''s neck and he felt hands groped his ass. Warm palms squeezed and rubbed his cheeks as he moaned against long neck.


    "Ah Yue, I''m coming."


    He pulled back and watched his lover''s face contort and ate the groans from those thin lips.


    "Come, my love," he whispered and silver eyes looked longingly and deeply at him, then long shiver of his king''s entire body shook. Cum spurted out of the hard length in his hand, coloring the abdomen of his lover''s. Ying Yue continued to pump until he heard the pained groan and saw the pinched expression on Wang Li''s face.


    Silver eyes dilated from arousal and face flushed from climax, he felt the Ghost King never looked so beautiful as he did now.


    He felt the bed shift and he was back to having Wang Li above him. His lover wrapped around his wrist of the hand that gave the Ghost King pleasure. It was sticky with the man''s cum and his eyes widened when the raven-haired male licked a long strip up his palm. Ying Yue watched in awe and disgust as Wang Li licked and sucked his fingers clean from his spent. His penis twitched as his golden eyes drank in his lover''s actions.


    Wang Li bent down and kissed him, making him taste himself. It did not make him more aroused, but his king knew how to work those lips and tongue to make him breathless. Lips moved down his body and a tongue swiped at his perked nipples. He gasped and wanted to move his hips, but Wang Li held him stilled. Tongue and lips left tingling sensations as it went lower and lower until he felt the long drag up his length.


    "Ah! Ah¡­ Ah Li, don''t! It''s¡­ it''s¡­ ah!"


    Ying Yue was having a hard time breathing from the overwhelming sensation of his lover''s lips and mouth and tongue torturing his twitching penis. Fingers gripped his sack and he gasped loudly, followed by a whimpering need. He wanted to pull away and tell Wang Li it was dirty, but he also wanted more of his lover''s lips and tongue and-

 Chapter 78 - Delicious

    "Mm¡­ ah! Ah¡­ Li¡­." The blonde panted loudly as his hips thrusted against his king when warm mouth took the head of his penis.


    That was all it took for him to come twitching, moaning, and clenching his thighs to keep the raven-haired male between his legs. Back arching and head thrown back, it felt like he was floating but so heavy. His heart felt like it stopped for a moment as he lived in his afterglow with his muscles lazy.


    He felt lips kissed him and tongue brought his spent for him to taste. The bitterness of his come was something he didn''t care for, but he loved Wang Li''s mouth and tongue. Opening his dilated golden eyes, he felt lips kissed the skins on his face.


    "You taste delicious, Ah Yue."


    "Mm."


    "Do you feel like pudding?"


    "No¡­ like clay."


    "Clay?"


    He felt his lover''s fingers swiped sweaty hair from his face. Smiling, he hummed pleased and content. Turning his head to kiss his king''s palm, he sighed happily.


    "Like your molding me, Ah Li, to be what you want."


    "Ah Yue, I don''t want to mold you," his lover kissed him again, "I want you to always be you. Kind, generous, beautiful, and¡­" breaths mingling with one another, "Mine."


    The blonde let out a laugh and watched as the Ghost King stood up to grab a washcloth to clean them.


    "I''m already yours," he whispered later when they were watching the burning body of Sheng Shui floating down the river. Small paper boats were lighted for their friend to find his way in the afterlife, but both Wang Li and Ying Yue knew there was no soul in that body.


    The villagers prayed and sent their condolences to their king, the only person who was like family to the orphaned seam master.


    "Ying Yue," Wang Li finally spoke long after the flames disappeared and the night became colder, "I understand."


    His golden eyes looked at his lover with a tilt of his head and he felt fingers tightened around his. They were alone under the stars where they frequent when they were younger, meeting just to be together. It brought good memories for Ying Yue and he stepped closer to his king.


    "You want him to experience this."


    "Hm?"


    "Us. To be loved. Ah Shui has been searching for a long time. His memories will be of how you feel just as his memories affect how you feel."


    He smiled and placed his free hand against his lover''s cheek.


    "Sheng Shui had found love, Ah Li. He was not searching, he was waiting."


    "He never told me who."


    "It is you."


    His lover closed his silver eyes and sighed, leaning against his palm. Wang Li had some thoughts to how the orange eyed blonde felt for him, but he knew who his heart lied with. Sheng Shui was beautiful and an excitement that he enjoyed being around. His life was better with the golden haired male around, like he was dancing on air each time the seam master smiled.


    He loved him.


    "I want him to experience your love, my king. I want him to remember his love for you when we pass ascension. He will know your heart is for the both of us."


    His sweet beautiful Ying Yue.


    Wang Li pulled him in for a kiss that expressed his appreciation and gratitude, his love and his honor. The Ghost King had known from the very first day he met Ying Yue that the platinum blonde was special and the second time they met that he loved him. It wasn''t hard to do, Ying Yue was easy to love and he wanted to keep him in his life forever.


    Being with Ying Yue was like the waves of the ocean meeting the soft anchoring sand.


    "You, my Ying Yue, is my most precious person."


    "And you, Wang Li, is my only precious person¡­ besides my brothers¡­."


    "Ah Yue¡­"


    "And my master."


    "Ah Yue."


    "You are my third¡­ no fourth precious person in my- hey! Ah Li!"


    He laughed as the Ghost King threw him over his shoulders and proceeded to walk away.


    Unbeknownst to them, a pair of eyes watched them with a glare.


    ==


    The redhead male had his golden eyes narrowed at the male before him. His brother and him were asked to help this man and his family from some possessed spirit. However, standing and speaking with them, he could tell the husband was not reacting normally. The man''s pupils were small and his grin looked unnatural.


    "Madame, are you alright?" The brunette questioned and he glanced at her.


    She was reacting like her husband, but the left side of her face was twitching. His eyes narrowed further and he looked to their only child, a small boy. The child just looked at his grandparents with confusion and the redhead glanced back at the elders.


    "Han Mo," he spoke up, "Take the child."


    The brunette looked at him and glanced at the seniors before grabbing the boy and rushing out. Once they were alone, his eyes glowed as he stared intensely at the seniors.


    "Now tell me, who are you."


    Both the man and woman grinned widely, showing the sharpened teeth.


    Han Mo on the other hand was struggling to keep the child from entering the house. He held the child tightly and jumped up to the roof a few houses down. Neighbors were coming out of their houses in confusion from the screaming of the child, and he let out a sigh.


    "Hello everyone," he smiled waving at them as they stared up with confusion and worry, "Please do not worry. There has been a situation in this child''s home and we are working on releasing the... uh, spirit."


    "Spirit?" Many villagers said concerned.


    "Yes, do not worry. Please give space to the area. We may not be able to protect you all if you are near."


    "But what are you doing with the child? Give him to me and we will wait in my home until you are finished."


    He was ecstatic that he could be rid of the crying and screaming child. It wasn''t that he didn''t like kids... well¡­ nevermind, he did not like children. Before he could agree, the child quieted down abruptly, and he looked down to see fear in the boy''s eyes. He felt fingers clutched onto him and blinked up with watery eyes at him.


    "Don''t¡­ don''t send me with her, please. I just¡­ I''m scared for my papa and mama."


    "Don''t worry, my brother is super strong and knows how to help them. Me helping him would help your papa and mama faster."


    "I don''t want to go with her or any of them. They are always mean to me. Please¡­ can''t I stay with you? I can help! I want to help."


    "I don''t think-"


    "It was my fault," the boy wiped his dripping snot, "I wanted to be special like he said and then I will get my want. He promised me and¡­ and I wanted to be like him¡­ Whaaaahaaa!"


    Han Mo winced away from the cry, but patted the boy''s head and glanced at the woman who offered.


    "It is alright, miss, I will keep the boy safe."


    "What did you do to be special like your papa?" He asked as the crowd cleared up.


    "Not my papa, the Ghost King."


    "What?"


    "The Ghost King. He is strong and amazing and so so cool! He said I will be special too! So I¡­ I went to the tunnels alone without telling anyone and¡­" the boy paused before murmuring, "I saw someone¡­"


    "Okay, who did you see?"


    "She was very pretty and looked a little like my mother."


    "Did she say something to you, give you something?"


    "She said she was looking for something and asked if I could help her and¡­ and I did."


    "What was it?"


    "It was a bracelet, I think. It was shiny and I found it and gave it to her. She said that I was a good boy and that I was special," he smiled, "I told her the Ghost King also said the same thing."


    "I see."


    "But she got angry at me and grabbed my arms," the child showed wrapping his arms around himself, "She kept saying that I was cursed and I ran away from her¡­ do you think this happened because of me?"


    Big sad eyes looked up at him and bro shook his head and offered a smiled.


    "No, and if you were, I would have noticed it cause I am great at what I do," patting the boy''s head, he leaned closer, "Tell me which tunnel you went to."


    Inside the house, the redhead avoided a punch from the man and held the female''s grabby hands back. Taking out the gifted golden string from their master, he used his spiritual energy to thicken the string and elongated it. Quickly wrapping it around the woman and tugging the man''s fist to him, he tied both in place. Pressing a talisman on their body, they fell unconscious against one another. Turning to the door, he saw his brother and the child watching him. Lifting a brow at the brunette, his brother tilted his chin to tell him to come over.


    "What is it?"


    "Brother. We know the problem."

 Chapter 79 - Youre Very Distracting

    "There is a female in the tunnel that told the child he was cursed. She may still be there, brother."


    "Let us go. Child, do not remove the talisman. If you do, they will die," he stated sternly to the young boy who nodded quickly.


    Leaving the house, both brothers headed to the forest quickly.


    "Why did you lie to the boy? They wouldn''t die," the brunette shook his head with a short laugh, "You trying to scare him?"


    "Yes, so he does not act foolishly," brother stated as if it was obvious.


    "Ha! You don''t like kids either!"


    The redhead ignored his brother as they entered the tunnel and slowed their quick steps.


    "Brother," the brunette whispered toward him, "The child said the female told him he was cursed after the boy brought up the Ghost King."


    ''The Ghost King?'' Xu Ling frowned.


    He was about to question what that meant, but a sound to his right caught his ears. Turning to it, he caught a lit lamp moving toward them. A female with long purple hair, braided and dragging on the ground appeared. Her face looked soft and kind, but he could see the rage in those green eyes. She stopped and looked at them with her eyes narrowed.


    "Cultivators, you two belong to the Heavens. What brings you to my tunnel?"


    "To return you back to the Netherworld, demon."


    Xu Ling saw those narrowed eyes slit even deadlier and the coldness swept up in the narrowed space where they were. The only light in the tunnel swept off and they were in the pitch darkness. Quickly calling his sword, he made it glow to light around them. The brunette attempted to create a barrier, but clawed hand grabbed him and he felt the walls of the cavern smack against his back.


    Han Mo felt the piercing of his skin on his temple down to his jawline, causing blood to seep out. Grabbing onto the wrist, his eyes glowed and he sent a burst of his energy out. The hold disappeared and he called to his sword.


    "Sorry lady, you''re pretty and all, but my heart is already taken."


    "You think I am interested? Bleurgh! Disgusting!"


    "Disgusting? Look at me, look at this pretty face! Well¡­ before you scratched me¡­ oh, I would look even more interesting to Ah Shen then!"


    The female stared at him with incredulousness, but she suddenly felt the pierce against her back. Anger welled up in her and she tried to run forward to remove the blade, but the redhead followed and pressed her against the wall.


    "Do you think I was the only one? Listen closely, cultivators, the Ghost King will release us and when he does, no one will live."


    "Then why did you tell that child he was curse when he brought up the king?" The brunette questioned.


    "You will not understand! I do not need to speak with any of you."


    The elder brother twisted the sword and the female screamed. He pressed the female''s face against the tunnel walls.


    "Death will lead to no reincarnation for a disgraceful soul like yours."


    The demon seethed and gritted her teeth. She did not reply and the brunette was as curious as kitten¡­ maybe the word was nosey¡­


    "Oh! I got it! You are in love with the Ghost King!"


    "What?! Heaven''s Chosen all smell! I would rather die in the pits of the Netherworld than fall in love with any of you!"


    "Then return. You will have no other chance if we are to meet again."


    The redhead smacked his palm against the female''s forehead and the demon screamed out, as she faded away. He looked over at his grinning brother who shrugged, and he shook his red hair. Returning to the boy''s house, the brothers entered and removed the talismans from the body of the two elders. They woke as if waking from a nap and the boy brightened up.


    "Grammy, papa?"


    "Oh, what had happened? Who are these two?" The gray haired female questioned glancing at them.


    "We are cultivators, Madame. Your grandson was just inviting us for some tea, but we must refuse," the brunette lied with a smile.


    "Cultivators?" The man lifted his brows, "I did not think there were need for you any longer."


    "Do not be rude," the female chastised.


    "Ah, but we would need to have some just in case, wouldn''t you agree?"


    "Yes, yes. You are right," The man nodded in agreement.


    "Child, here," the redhead handed the boy a talisman, "It will ward off evil. It will not affect the stronger ones, so be sure to not be foolish."


    "I understand. Thank you, cultivators."


    The boy bowed to them and they said their goodbyes. Returning to their cabin in the hills, there was a note on the door. Both brothers looked at one another and the brunette picked the note off the door and laughed.


    "It''s Ying Yue. Says he''s coming over tomorrow."


    "He''s ready to stay."


    "Mm, no. It sounds more like he is just visiting."


    The redhead would never admit aloud that he was missing the blonde. Walking into the cabin and listening to the excitement from his other brother, he wondered if the brunette would also leave him as well.


    "Oh, I should make something for Ah Shen, so Ah Yue can bring back for him!"


    "Who is Ah Shen?"


    "The white-haired boy. The one that brought the tea last time we were there."


    "¡­"


    "What?"


    "He''s a boy."


    "So is the Ghost King."


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "Brother¡­ what is on your mind? You don''t approve?"


    His golden eyes saw the pout on his extroverted brother and how his brother crossed his arms in defense. Searching Han Mo''s face, he let out a sigh. Turning away, he headed to the kitchen to prepare a meal for them. He forced his mind to focus on why there were an increase in evil, instead of both his brothers being interested in men.


    ==


    "I''ll tell them you said hi," Ying Yue smiled brightly at his lover.


    "Be careful."


    His smile softened and he leaned in to kiss his lover''s parted lips. Pulling away, he pressed a kiss on his king''s cheeks and turned toward the entrance of the palace. He caught a sly smirk on the blue haired female and a giggle from the brunette female. His ears flushed remembering that Chu had witnessed¡­ he cleared his throat and waved at them, as he quickened his walk out of the palace to see his brothers.


    Wang Li turned to the females once the platinum blonde was no longer in the palace. Both females turned to him and a grin spread across their faces. Chu wiggled her brows and whispered words to Hien who flushed and pushed her twin away. He felt his lips curled in a smirk and decided to practice his swordmanship.


    His thoughts returned to his conversation with Ying Yue earlier in the day.


    ["Ah Li," his lover spoke up when they were laying beside one another, "I was thinking about Ye Wu and what you promised him. Have you thought of a way?"


    "Yes."


    "¡­ Are you going to tell me?"


    He ran his fingers down his lover''s temple down to his chin and thumbed those plump lips. His silver eyes closed for a moment as those fingers slid through platinum blonde locks. He felt lips touched his cheek, forehead, and nose.


    Opening his eyes, he smiled adoringly at Ying Yue.


    "You''d be angry with me."


    "I really don''t think that is possible."


    "Ah Yue," the Ghost King sighed and searched his face, "I''ve let some out. I am certain your brothers have met them."


    Golden eyes widened and he watched the disappointment, confusion, and acceptance ran across the beautiful features of his lover.


    "I see. Well¡­ my brothers are strong and they will be able to protect the innocents without me."


    "Those that I released are not the strongest. They would put no real fight against your brothers."


    "That female¡­ the one that was caught in a nightmare and you healed her. Was that your doing?"


    "No. I do not know who did it, but I will find out."


    "I will visit my brothers. I''ve been meaning to visit, but¡­" his lover bit his bottom lip and looked down with a smile.


    "Ah Yue?" He questioned lifting the blonde''s chin, so he could see those pretty golden eyes.


    "You''re very distracting," Ying Yue mumbled and flushed.


    "Am I?" He let out a laugh and leaned forward to hover over his lover, "I think it is you, who is the distraction, my love. I am obsessed."


    "Don''t say things like that, Ah Li," Ying Yue flushed as golden eyes looked at his lips.


    "Hm, why is that?" He whispered against those plump lips.


    His lover did not reply with words, but kissed him and the rest of the night he gave his lover everything the blonde asked him for. Touches and kisses all over soft milky skin. The moans and breathless panting from Ying Yue made a pleased purr vibrate through his chest.


    He loved the sound his lover made and he rubbed deeper, moved faster, and dug harder. Thrusting until the beauty below him shivered and trembled. Wang Li kissed the wet red lips of Ying Yue, and grinned when his lover kissed him back.


    There was nothing that would ever stop him from having Heaven''s Chosen.]

 Chapter 80 - Meow

    In his palace, his warriors attacked him, but he dodged easily. Dislodging their blades and quickly knocking many back. He got them all to fall.


    "Well done, nephew," Yun spoke up as she walked forward, "Come, let us have word."


    Wang Li nodded and thanked his spar partners. Following his aunt, they went to sit where the large oak tree stood. Tea was brought to them and he looked to his elder to see the calmness of her face. This made him nervous.


    "How is your promise to the demon going?"


    "Many have been sent back."


    "But?"


    "There are some that I have not released."


    Madame Yun sipped her tea and stared at her nephew for a moment. She placed the tea down and looked at the large oak tree.


    "I will go to the portal and speak with Ye Wu."


    "No. You will not."


    "Auntie¡­"


    "Listen to me, child. Ye Wu is a demon and had made you care for him, caused you to be part of his family, and made you promise to release all of the Netherworld demons. He placed you in a position that you should never be placed in."


    "I understand."


    "You say you understand, but you still want to see him," Yun frowned at the raven-haired king, "I should''ve sent him away when I found out he was stalking you."


    Wang Li placed his hand over his guardian and smiled. She had raised him as her own and let him do as he pleased. He owed much to his aunt and her patience.


    "Do not worry, auntie. I thank you for what you''ve done and given me. I must take responsibilities for my decisions now."


    "You''ve grown, nephew," she curled her lips upwards, "Should I thank that lover of yours?"


    He felt his cheeks flush and he looked away sipping his tea. He heard the laughter from his aunt and he smiled. He had not heard her laugh in so long and if his embarrassment brought her joy, he would gladly accept it.


    ==


    Ying Yue couldn''t help grinning at his brothers. He missed them so much and just seeing them again was like a stroke of comfort against his heart.


    "Then big brother took out his sword like this," the brunette modeled, "... and said, ''If you wish to act foolishly, then death will be your consequence.''"


    He watched his brunette brother made movements with his arm, mock holding a sword, and he laughed. He could tell his eldest brother would say those words and act that way. He looked over to the redhead who hid his smirk behind the teacup.


    "How many have you sent back?" The blonde asked, "Sounds like a lot."


    "I''d say over fifty, wouldn''t you agree?" The brunette looked over to the eldest.


    "Since you''re stay with the Ghost King, we have sent back 70 evil spirits and demons."


    Ying Yue nodded pursing his lips. Wang Li told him he had been releasing them, but that his brothers would have no trouble defeating them. Glancing at both his brothers closer, he saw the darkness under their eyes from lack of sleep. Worry covered his heart like a veil, and he twiddled his thumbs.


    "Brothers, had it been hard?"


    "Don''t worry your blonde head, Ah Yue. Ah Ling and I can handle it," Han Mo patted his back and he gave a weak smile.


    "What have you learned about the demon?" The redhead questioned sitting tall.


    "He¡­ Wang Li promised to help him."


    "What is the promise."


    "¡­"


    "Ah Yue," his kinder brother questioned softly.


    "To release the demons into our world¡­ Brother! Let me explain!" Ying Yue quickly said seeing Xu Ling scowling, "He is only choosing who he will be releasing and he said they would cause you no issue."


    "And what of the stronger ones."


    "I¡­ I don''t know."


    He looked down and wondered that as well. Eventually every demon, ghosts, and those in the Netherworld would get their chance at freedom. What would happen then if his brothers and eventually his master would not be able to defeat it? What if Ye Wu decided to not wait and somehow release his clans onto the surface world?


    ''I have to trust Ah Li.''


    "Ah Yue-"


    The sound of fireworks sounded in the morning air. Rushing out of the door, they saw from where they were needed was located. His brothers glanced at him and said their quick goodbyes, before he watched his brothers split up into the two locations on their swords.


    Ying Yue closed his eyes for a moment and prayed that the Heavens watched over his family.


    "Master, your precautions are working," he let out a breath, "What is taking you so long?"


    Leaving the cabin, he placed the straw hat on his head and headed back to the village. On his way, he noticed a bundle near a tree. Tilting his head, he wondered what it was, but his eyes widened when he heard a small meow. Pulling the small wrap away, he saw big blue eyes staring at him. Quickly bundling it into his arms, he grinned and rushed back to the palace.


    When he entered, Ying Yue saw his lover sitting under the large oak tree alone. Ah, Wang Li always looked lovely and he gushed at how much love he had for his king. The sound from the bundle reminded him of what he was going to do, so letting out a laugh, he skipped over to the man in red.


    "Wang Li! Ah Li!"


    Silver eyes look toward him and a smile was curled on those thin lips. He felt his lover reach up for him and he leaned down to capture those beautiful lips. It had not been a full day and yet, it felt as though many years had gone by since he last felt the adoring touch of his king.


    "I got you a gift," he smiled happily when they parted lips.


    "A gift?"


    The blonde removed the wrap to reveal big blue eyes staring up at him. A soft meow left the animal''s lips and he blinked.


    ''A cat¡­ his Ying Yue brought a cat into the palace?''


    "Ah Yue," he started shaking his head, but big golden eyes glittered at him.


    "He is my gift to you," his lover said softly as the blonde nuzzled the kitten, "Will you accept?"


    "A gift? For what reason?" The raven-haired male felt the gifted leopard placed on his lap. He watched the kitten''s head shake the rest of the cloth off him, before rubbing against his chest with a small head.


    "For choosing me," the blonde smiled and kissed his lips, before sitting beside him, "He likes you."


    "Who else would I choose?" His brows furrowed as he turned to the blonde to find a large smile on plush lips.


    "What do you want to call him?" Ying Yue asked looking down at the blue-eyed kitten, enjoying the scratches behind his ears.


    "What would you call him?" Wang Li asked.


    "But he is your gift," the blonde reminded and the king smiled.


    "Then my gift to you is naming him," he saw soft golden eyes looked at him with a smile.


    "Snow," the blonde grinned when he looked at him with a quirked brow, "What? I am terrible at naming! You already know that."


    He laughed wrapping an arm around his lover and kissed those soft cheek, "Then Snow it is."


    Ying Yue sidled closer to Wang Li and wrapped his arms around him. He nuzzled against his lover''s side, earning a laugh from the raven-haired male. He felt those long fingers massaged down his scalp and he curled his lips with a sigh.


    "Are you a baby kitten as well, my love?"


    He let out a laugh and looked up at Wang Li with big golden eyes.


    "Meow," he sounded and grinned.


    He saw silver eyes narrowed and his lover moving closer. He watched as those lovely lips neared his and he anticipated the kiss. Closing his eyes, he waited for Wang Li''s mouth to be placed on his, but all he received was a lick to his face. He blinked widely in shock and saw blue eyes staring at him. Another lick from the cat and Ying Yue pulled back with a laugh.


    "Ah Li!" He avoided another kiss from the kitten as he continued to laugh.


    "Hm? Are you not a kitten?"


    "Meoh-! St¡­ stop! Wang Li!" Ying Yue laughed running away from the man in red holding out the kitten toward him.


    ==


    The sound of the waterfall nearby lulled Pang Xi, the green haired master, into a deeper state of meditation. It took him awhile to calm his mind and qi to reach the Heavens. He needed to find out why he was not told, what did he need to do, and how to help his students. Currently speaking with the Jade Emperor, he found himself in frustration.


    "I do not understand," he bowed, "The change in what my student''s purpose was accidental?"

 Chapter 81 - Spoil Me More

    "Choosing both the Ghost King and your student was a mistake. They''ve caused much trouble for me. However, you have done well in training the one placed with you. He developed quickly and easily. He would do well against the other."


    "I see¡­ Ying Yue is to kill the Ghost King in the end."


    "Yes. The cycle will-"


    He felt his face twitched when something smacked against his forehead. Another and another and he fell out of his meditation and caught the next rock being thrown at him. Opening his golden eyes, he narrowed them dangerously at the attacker. The culprit grinned and waved at him as if they were friends.


    "Pang Xi! Yoohoo! Hello," the raven-haired male waved happily.


    He tried to ignore the red eyed demon and closed his eyes to return to his conversation, but the demon would not leave him alone. More rocks were thrown at him and he had it! Getting up, he growled and shoot out toward the demon. Ye Wu just laughed as he avoided the reaches and grabbed at his forearm. His green hair moved with his action and twisted the demon to press against the rock. He felt legs wrapped around his waist as he pressed down the red eyed man''s wrists.


    "Hm, was that all it took to get you in between my legs? I should''ve done it years ago."


    He saw the sultry grin and eyes aimed at him. Thinning his lips, he tried to step back but thighs tightened around him, as ankles crossed behind him. He tugged backwards again, but it seemed to only make him aware of their hips moving. Glaring at the man below him, he fought the urge to wrap his hands around the man''s neck.


    "Now, now, Ah Xi. We wouldn''t want you to join me in the Netherworld, would you?"


    "What do you want?"


    "To play. I am bored Ah Xi, won''t you play with me?" Ye Wu pouted and pressed himself closer to the green haired master. Arching his back and revealing his long neck, he hummed as his nose moved up toward the jawline.


    "You always smell so delicious," Ye Wu murmured with his teeth itchy to taste smooth skin.


    "No."


    "Ah, too bad then, guess your children will most likely die."


    "What?"


    "You always miss so much when you meditate, my dear Ah Xi," Ye Wu tsked sadly, "They''ve been doing well in sending my people back to the Netherworld, but there will be stronger ones soon. I can help them," he licked his lips, "For a price."


    Pang Xi felt the demon roll his hips upwards and he pressed his body closer so the raven-haired male was unable to move. This only led to the feel of the demon''s arousal pressed against his pelvis. He searched the demon''s face to see if he was lying, but Pang Xi never could tell with the red eyed demon.


    Even after centuries, the demon was still a mystery.


    "I trust they would do well."


    "Hm, maybe."


    "What aren''t you telling me."


    "Ah Xi, you should know how my family works. We love making you feel comfortable before we go in for the kill. I cant help them behind the scene. You know, give them some tips on how to defeat them."


    Ye Wu watched the thinning of the green-haired man''s lips and the slight furrowed of brows. Curling his lips, he licked his lips slowly and moved the back of his heels up and down the master''s lower back.


    "I''ll make sure they don''t die, Ah Xi."


    "What do you want?"


    "Like I said, Ah Xi," he leaned his head forward, "... to play."


    ==


    Ying Yue yawned and scooted closer to the warmth near him. He heard a purr before a wet lick swiped up his cheek. Groaning, he sat up and wiped the saliva from his face. Blinking blearily, he smiled and patted the now teenage cat. Still confused as to how Snow grew so quickly when they only had him for seven moons, he couldn''t help the smile on his face. Ying Yue rubbed the cat''s head and looked around the room.


    Wang Li was gone again.


    He understood his lover needed to speak with Ye Wu and he understood completing a barrier around the portal, so demons were unable to just leave, but that didn''t mean he wasn''t worried about his king. The red eyed demon would not be happy to have his family contained even more and from what Wang Li told him, that conversation harmed their relationship.


    "Are you¡­ alright?" He rubbed his lover''s cheek with his thumb.


    "I don''t know¡­ I owe a lot to him, Ah Yue."


    He nodded and curled closer into his king.


    "It doesn''t mean you would not stop letting some free."


    "He said he is contained now too, that I betrayed him. In a way, I suppose I have."


    Ying Yue saw the sadness on his lover''s face and pressed a kiss on his forehead.


    "Maybe¡­ maybe when my master returns from the mountains, he could speak with him."


    "Speak with Ye Wu?"


    "Mmhmm, they know one another and¡­ and Ye Wu could have killed my brothers and I, maybe my master too, but he didn''t. He did say he liked my master, remember?"


    "Yes."


    "Maybe my master could help somehow."


    He felt lips on his and he melted on top of his lover, as their legs caught the other. Fingers ran down the nape of his neck and he shivered with a gasp. Wang Li groped his ass and he moaned before he yelped from the smack.


    He tried pulling his head away, but the hand at his nape held his neck in place. Another smack left a sting, and his panting was sucked down by his lover. His hips twitched from the burn and he soon felt something wet ran over his reddened skin.


    "My love, you certainly spoil me."


    "Mm, only cause I love you, my king."


    "Is that so," his lover whispered darkly against his ear and the palm rubbing his ass cheek gripped the round meat, "Then spoil me more, baby."


    He felt his entire body flushed and he groaned kissing his lover open mouthed. He really couldn''t help it. He would spoil Wang Li forever if he could. The truth was, his king was spoiling him, but his lover didn''t need to know that.


    ==


    Walking around the village, he greeted many. The villagers were kind and they would tell him many things from other villages.


    "Did you hear, Sir Yue? The Sect Leaders all met and are taking credit for getting rid of the demons?"


    "Yes! When credit is for those two cultivators!"


    "I agree. Who knew we''d actually need cultivators?"


    "Obviously the Heavens. They already knew something like this was going to happen."


    "Well, I think credit is to our king. He probably did something to get rid of the demons."


    He listened to all the talks and found himself smiling. They were all probably right¡­ well, he wasn''t sure about the Sect Leaders, but he knew for certain both Wang Li and his brothers had a large part in it.


    "What do you think, Sir Yue?"


    "I am glad they are returned and the sectors are all safe," he smiled and the villagers laughed in agreement.


    "Ah, where have our king been? I haven''t seen him for awhile. My little girl had been so sad lately."


    "Oh, why is that?" Ying Yue questioned.


    "My little girl loves our king and looks forward to the pat on her head from him."


    "I will remind him," he offered with a smile.


    "Thank you, Sir Yue," the lady bowed before the villagers started laughing to themselves. He glanced around with a nervous smile.


    "What is it?"


    "Oh nothing, Sir Yue. Thank you for sharing your time with us. We are blessed and honored."


    He thanked them back and walked away wondering what they were giggling about. Letting out a sigh, he stood under the shade of a roof and watched as the villagers chatted happily, children running freely, and the smell of delicious meals. However, his heart was saddened without his lover. Wang Li had been gone for awhile now and all he wanted was for his king to return.


    Children ran up to him and he smiled kneeling down.


    "Sir Yue, it is my birthday!" The young girl grinned with a missing front tooth.


    "Oh is it? Then you deserve a gift," he smiled and moved a finger over his palm. Calling to his qi, he slowly created a lovely plum blossom shimmering in gold. He tucked the golden blossom into her brown hair, earning a glittering smile. The other children awed at the gift and asked for it as well. Letting out a laugh, he created one for each child.


    "Thank you, Sir Yue!" "You are the best!"


    The children bowed and bounded off with their innocence.


    He felt his lips fell out of the smile and he wondered if being here, in this village, was as helpful as he wanted it to. From the time he was here, he was very happy and he felt so loved by Wang Li¡­ but was he taking away his king''s time from the villagers, from his family? Was being here making things harder for his brothers and master?


    Was living here with Wang Li worth it?

 Chapter 82 - I Am Yours

    He heard laughter and the happy meows by Snow. Looking at the cat, he saw the leopard was covered in red and black flowers. Some of the petals were lined in silver and gold, glittering with the sun. He saw petals of the same kind fall around him and he looked up. It looked like the sky was raining roses and plum blossoms as they fell against his face. Holding out a hand, he caught a rose and tilted it to the sun to see the different colors within the petals.


    Arms wrapped around him from behind and he felt the warmth against his back. Lips kissed his temple and he heard Snow stop before him. A red ribbon wrapped around the large cat''s neck and there was something hanging off the front like a bell. Golden eyes blinked widely as Wang Li moved to his front beside Snow.


    "Ying Yue," the Ghost King smiled sweetly at him and he felt his heart constrict, "You hold my heart, my soul, my mind. You are everything to me and I will forever love you."


    He watched the man in red grab an item inside the bell and rubbed the snow leopard''s head. Silver eyes looked at him once again and he was captivated, always had been. He felt the warmth from his lover''s palm against his cheek and his throat felt tight.


    "I am yours, Ah Yue¡­"


    Ying Yue saw the item held in between Wang Li''s fingers. Two thin bands twisted against one another, one black and gold like yin and yang. They shined as much as the raining flowers around him. His eyes watered and his mouth opened.


    "Ah Li¡­"


    "Will you be mine, my love?"


    Tears slipped down his golden eyes and he felt the rush of warmth spread throughout his entire body. He nodded and was enveloped into an embrace in strong arms. His lips spread across his face into a smile as he found himself laughing. The villagers clapped, awed, and cheered for them. Snow was circling them happily, as the flowers bounced and fell softly around them.


    "I love you."


    Wang Li pulled back and captured his lips like the embrace of comfort, of safety, of love.


    ''Ah Li, my heart is yours. Always had been.''


    ==


    "So¡­ will you come?"


    "¡­"


    "I mean¡­ I know it is soon and you may be needed elsewhere and master is still in the mountains and¡­ and¡­"


    "Stop."


    He shut his lips and looked down nervously. Twiddling his thumbs, he heard the clinking of the teacup landing onto the table. He heard footsteps near him and his eyes widened in startlement when arms wrapped around him.


    "Our little brother is getting married," the brunette patted his back and pulled back, "Shouldn''t we be getting married before you?"


    He just smiled and felt the pinch on his cheek. Pushing his brother away to soothe the pinch, he glanced at the redhead who had his arms crossed and eyes closed. Still seated, his eldest brother thinned his lips.


    "Brother¡­ please. I would like for you to be there and give your blessings."


    "He is the Ghost King."


    "I¡­ know."


    "You are Heaven''s Chosen."


    "¡­"


    "I am not blind to see you both cares deeply for the other. I am not heartless," the redhead sighed, "You both changed your purpose. The Jade Emperor will not be please."


    "We¡­ we haven''t, brother," Ying Yue went to sit before the eldest, "Our purpose is the same. He needed to create chaos and I am to bring balance. He is chaos and I am balance, so if we are together¡­ We are still following what we were chosen for."


    He saw the wish for approval on the blonde''s face, the hope and belief that what he thought was correct. Since his youngest brother was just a child, he had always had wide eyes of the world. He thought the blonde would have grown up after the missions they had gone through, but it did not deter his brother from the hope the blonde felt.


    "You are still na?ve and an idiot," he saw the crestfallen face of the boy before him, "I will not give you my blessing, but I will come."


    Golden doe eyes stared at him and a pout was place on the chosen''s face. He felt his left eye twitched from the look his brother was giving him.


    ''''Thank you, brother," Ying Yue bowed lowly and smiled at him.


    "I will give you my blessing, Ah Yue. I like your Wang Li."


    "You just want to get close to that kitchen worker," Xu Ling mumbled with dipped brows.


    The brunette laughed aloud and winked at the redhead who rolled his eyes. Ying Yue stood up and thanked his kind brother. He told them he had to return and hugged them goodbye. Sighing, he headed back down to the village. His eldest brother would not give them his blessings¡­ he wondered if his master would.


    He looked at his finger where the ring was and felt himself bit his bottom lip. Giggling to himself, he will finally play the song he made for Wang Li. He was nervous, but he just wanted to give everything to his lover.


    "Ah Yue."


    He looked up and realized he was already in the palace. Smiling over at Wang Li, he ran into his waiting arms. Spinning around, he kissed his lover and leaned closer.


    "My husband," he whispered.


    "Not yet, my love," Wang Li grinned still holding him up. His legs dangled and looking down at his soon to be husband made everything in him mushy.


    "Just wanted to practice saying it," he grinned and felt hands groped his behind. Face flushing, he tried to get down, but his body froze when his movement made Wang Li''s hand slip between his butt cheeks.


    "Shameless, my love," Wang Li laughed deeply and he shivered, "If this is what you want, all you had to do was asked."


    "Ah¡­ Ah Li. It was¡­ ah!" Ying Yue felt the edge of Wang Li''s hand pushed deeper and slid upwards putting pressure against his entrance. He pressed closer into his lover with his hips hiked up. He gasped when his king sat down with him straddling his lover. He felt hot and he looked around them in embarrassment.


    "We¡­ we are outside, Ah Li."


    "Maybe I should make you cum right here where everyone can see and hear you," Wang Li whispered darkly against his ear and he trembled, "Have them know you are all mine, my beautiful Ying Yue, my beautiful wife."


    Hand slid down to touch his manhood and he gasped. Pulling away, he pushed his lover''s hand away and covered his hardening private. His face was red and his ears were hot, but he could not deny his arousal for his king. Swallowing and gulping down the built up of saliva, he looked to see sultry silver eyes watching him like a prey.


    "Ah Li, let''s¡­ let us finish in our room."


    Ears perked up and eyes sparkled mischievously. He saw the grin on the man in red, before his lips was devoured and sucked to be bruised. Moaning, he pulled back and went back in for more. Ying Yue tucked fingers into dark strands and pulled slightly, making Wang Li bit his bottom lip.


    "Nephew!"


    Both Ying Yue and Wang Li stilled and turned to see sharp narrowed eyes along with others staring at them. The blonde pulled away and bowed lowly as his ears burned with embarrassment. He felt a hand smooth the roundness of his ass and he held the wrist.


    "Ah Li, stop," he whispered looking widely at his lover to see a sly smirk on those thin lips.


    "Nephew! You shameful child! Have you no face," Yun gritted out, "To show such indecency!"


    "But auntie, I just love to show how much I love Ah Yue and-"


    "Speak anymore, I will cut your hair."


    "¡­"


    "I have no problem with your love, but to do this publicly! Have I not taught you better?"


    "I¡­ I apologize, auntie. I will not lose face again. I ask for your forgiveness."


    "Punishment is to be given," Madame Yun spoke up and their audience tuned in, "You are to sleep apart until marriage. If either one of you were to behave in such behaviors before then, I will not give my blessings."


    He felt his blood drop from his face. Letting go of Wang Li''s wrist, he sidestepped a few steps away. It was important for him to have his lover''s guardian''s blessing.


    "I accept this punishment, Madame Yun."


    "Nephew?"


    "Yes, auntie."


    "Good. Now let us speak on what needs to be done."


    ==


    He listened and followed every direction he was told. He did not dare to misstep because he did not want more punishment. Being away from Wang Li was hard enough, Ying Yue did not want more problems. He was herded this way and that, spoke to by this person and that, and all different types of jewelries held up to his skin. Sleeping alone was difficult because he just wanted to be wrapped in strong arms of his lover.


    ''I miss you Wang Li.''


    He sighed and closed his eyes, counting down the days until he would be sleeping beside his lover, his king, his husband.

 Chapter 83 - Tomorrow

    Although  he did not want to be apart from his future husband, he was giddy knowing the gift he wanted to share. It gave him time to practice his song for Wang Li, to perfect it completely.


    He had not even had a glance of his king and he sighed on his bed. Curled up on his side, he looked at his ring and smiled. Pressing it against his heart, he closed his golden eyes.


    Tomorrow, tomorrow he would see his lover, call him husband, and they would¡­ He felt his face flushed and he pulled his covers over his nose, flustered by his own thoughts.


    "My wife."


    Golden eyes widened and he glanced at his window to not see anyone. The cool air calmed his flush and he looked to stare at the stars.


    "Tomorrow you will officially be mine."


    Ying Yue creased his brows and wondered if he was dreaming or imagining his lover''s voice. The fluttering of wings softly moved against the back of his ear. He relaxed and let out a soft laugh.


    "Are you ready?" The blonde nodded with a soft smile, looking down at his ring, "I have been for a long time, my love. I will see you tomorrow."


    Ying Yue pulled the soft white butterfly and held it in his fingers. A breathless smile was placed over his lips and he whispered against the butterfly and let it fly back to its master.


    "Tomorrow, my husband."


    When tomorrow came, he was rushed to bathe where servants brushed him thoroughly. His hair was twisted and pinned, then let down to be redone. His face was painted with makeup, then washed off only to be repainted. The only thing that was not changed at all was the wedding robe he donned. Scarlett red with golden threads of plum blossoms, he knew it was Sheng Shui who created such an intricate wedding robe.


    ''Did he prepare this for himself?'' Ying Yue wondered as he stared at himself being prodded and turned. He let out a smile and thanked his friend, who brightened to warm his entire inside. He could feel the excitement Sheng Shui felt as well and it made him giddy.


    There was a knock on the door and he brightened at that. A break would be nice and he was willing to accept whoever it was.


    "Sir Yue, your family wish to speak with you."


    Blinking his golden eyes, he heard the unhappy sighs from the workers for the distraction, but he rushed to the door. Opening it, he saw his master''s eyes widened and mouth hung open slightly. Ying Yue grinned happily and wrapped his arms around the green haired elder.


    "Master! Welcome back! You''ve came just in time!"


    "You really are to wed¡­ the Ghost King?"


    "Yes¡­ do you¡­ do you not approve?" Ying Yue looked worriedly at his master.


    Pang Xi did not reply right away. What he learned at the mountains, he felt his entire blood dropped.


    The Jade Emperor had mentioned changes that he felt Ying Yue would be prepared for, but to change it to this extreme¡­ he worried for his student. Yet here he was, learning that the blonde had chosen to stay with the man in red, was in love with the other chosen, and was to marry the Ghost King. Letting out a sigh through his nose, he stepped back.


    "Let us speak, Ying Yue."


    The blonde nodded and walked out with them to the opposite end of where Wang Li was currently staying.


    "You did not listen when I told you to stay away."


    "I¡­ I apologize, master, but I¡­ I love him."


    "Ying Yue, I have spoken with the Jade Emperor. He is not happy with your decision or his. Punishment had been taken."


    "Punishment?" The blonde creased his forehead, "But we¡­ we haven''t gone against him. We are making sure we both are still following what the Heavens-"


    "Child," he sighed and golden eyes blinked at him with watery eyes, "The choices you make will receive consequences. It will only lead to heartache, Ying Yue."


    He watched the blonde shake his head and fisted his hands. He watched as Heaven''s Chosen pursed his lips and turned away from him. Pang Xi knew Ying Yue was an adult now and could make his own decisions, but he felt worry in his heart and knew what the ending would be.


    He hoped the Jade Emperor would change his ethereal mind and not cause both chosen harm.


    "Come, let''s go home."


    "No¡­ I want to stay with Wang Li. I want to marry him and be with him. I do not know what the consequences or punishment are, but¡­ but I know we will be able to handle it. I also have you and Xu Ling and Han Mo to help me and¡­ and... Madame Yun and everyone here. Please master, let me stay."


    Pang Xi could still hear his conversation with the Heavens.


    ["If they wish to change their purpose, I must change the prophecy," the Jade Emperor had stated.


    "I do not understand."


    "There is only one way the child will bring balance, Pang Xi."


    He did not dare speak because he was unsure what it was the Heavens wanted.


    "The death of the Ghost King will come."


    "Is there no other way, my emperor?"


    "You worry because the child loves the Ghost King. He is to marry him as we speak."


    "What?"


    "Even if they wed, balance will be made."


    "Tell me, please, what is the change?"]


    "Master¡­" Ying Yue stared at him with doe like eyes and he sighed.


    "I know you love him, but-"


    "Ah Yue?" The voice of the Ghost King spoke up and he saw silver eyes widened. A soft flush covered the king''s cheeks.


    "Ah¡­ Ah Li! You shouldn''t see me like this," the blonde flushed as well, but did not move to hide himself. Pang Xi watched as his student covered his face, but golden eyes peeked through fingers to trail down the man in red.


    "I¡­" Wang Li cleared his throat and bowed, "My apologies. Thank you all for attending our wedding."


    He heard the giggle from his young student and turned to see the redness at the child''s ears. He heard shuffling from his other students, but his eyes were on the couple glancing at one another like shy children.


    "We would not miss it, my king. Ah Yue really loves you, so do not hurt him or we will come and take him awa-" the brunette''s mouth was covered with Ying Yue''s hand, as the blonde flustered.


    "You will never see him again," the redhead stated with narrowed eyes and the elder looked over at the Ghost King. Silver eyes glared back, before the man nodded and agreed.


    "I understand."


    "Ah Li, this¡­ this is my master," Ying Yue introduced him and he breathed out a smile.


    "A pleasure," he bowed and saw the raven-haired male bowed lower.


    "I am honored to be in your presence, master. Whatever you wish, please let me know."


    He opened his mouth and was about to speak up, but a female with white hair called out to the man. The Ghost King apologized and returned to his room. The female stared at him and he stared back. It had been years since he had seen her and she was still an elegant beauty.


    "Pang Xi," she greeted.


    "Li Yun."


    "It is nice to see you here. Be sure not to cause too much trouble, hm?" She smirked at him and said her goodbyes, returning into the room the Ghost King had entered.


    "I am so happy you all are here!" Ying Yue sighed happily before he remembered what he wanted to ask his master, "Master, I know this is sudden, but Ah Li had created a barrier to block off the demons from escaping. Ye Wu is upset and I was wondering if¡­ if you could speak with him?"


    "Why?"


    "Well, he likes you and I think he would listen to you. Please, master, it would be great if you could and-"


    "Sir Yue, please. We do not have much time to fix you up. I apologize, but we would need him to return," a female servant spoke up from the opened door.


    "Sorry, please enjoy yourselves!" Ying Yue called out as he ran back inside to finish up whatever the servants wanted him to do.


    Pang Xi rubbed his temples and thought about what to do.


    "Are you not going to tell him?" The eldest student spoke up staring at the closed door where the blonde disappeared behind.


    "Should I?"


    "Yes. He would only cause more harm."


    "Hm," he sounded and rubbed his face, "Is it true? Have there been little work lately."


    "Yes."


    "Much less and the demons and ghosts are not challenging at all. Before, there was this one demon that was pretty strong, but lucky for us, it was scared of water. Water of all thing!" The brunette laughed and suddenly stopped when a silver haired boy caught his eyes.


    "Water?"


    "Mmhmm, I am going to go help out. See you at the ceremony!" His student waved as the brunette ran off. He saw the brunette ran up to a silver haired boy with slightly burnt skin on parts of his skin. The happy smile on his student and the wary look on the other, he watched as they both turned and headed to a different area.


    "Xu Ling," he turned to the redhead, "Have you found someone as well, while I was away?"


    "No."


    "Hm¡­" Pang Xi sounded and tilted his head, "Are you interested in males like your brothers?"


    "No," his student gritted out through clenched teeth and he nodded with a laugh. Patting his student''s shoulder, he sighed and looked up to the sky.

 Chapter 84 - Shall We Go To Bed

    The brunette was grinning like an idiot. He had not seen Shen in so long and he could not help beaming like a beacon, spotlighting the silver haired man. His eyes caught the small perfume bag hanging on the man''s hip. Biting his lips to not die laughing, he felt warm knowing his gift was accepted.


    "Sir, are you sure you are alright?" An elderly woman questioned staring at him with creased brows.


    "Of course, no need to worry, miss."


    He turned and made sure to stick close to Fu Shen, who was still ignoring him, but that was alright. He didn''t mind, as long as the man did not push him away. He watched and followed what the quiet man was doing. He grabbed the dough, he kneaded it, he rolled it and shaped it. Handing it to the next person, he did it again and again, until the silver haired man touched his arm. Han Mo glanced at him and grinned when Shen said they would clean up.


    "Thank you for helping," Shen bowed slightly and took out a white handkerchief. His golden eyes watched as the man placed it gently against his cheek and wiped away the flour. His grin softened and he leaned into the touch, but Shen had already pulled away his hand.


    "Ah Shen," he held such small, scarred wrist, "May I keep it?"


    Purple eyes searched his face before glancing to the white handkerchief. Shen tugged against him and he let the man go, but felt the item in his hand. Eyes brightening, he grinned happily.


    "Thank you, Ah Shen. I shall look at it when I am missing you."


    "You should not speak so openly in such ways, Ah Mo."


    "Why shouldn''t I? I know how my heart feels."


    "You will regret it. Do not think of me as anything other than an acquaintance."


    "Ah Shen, I will never regret it," he caught the man''s wrist and smiled softly.


    "Let me go," purple eyes narrowed at him.


    "Eh, Ah Shen. Do you not need assistance in getting ready for the ceremony? Why don''t I help you?"


    "I do not need any help. I will go as is."


    "What? No, no. You must clean up. You have flour on your robe and I am certain you sweated while you were working so hard. Come, come, let''s get you bathe and dress in your finest tunic."


    "Wha¡­ What about you? Do you not need to get ready?"


    He let out a laugh as he dragged the white-haired male out of the kitchen and to the room he remembered as the man''s. He had walked the quiet man to his room that lovely night and he grinned remembering how flustered the pretty man was. He pulled the door opened and smiled as he went to look through the clothing.


    "Ah, what! There is no need for you to look through this. I can do it on my own."


    "Why don''t you bathe, and I will put together something nice for you to wear," he offered before a sly smile spread across his face, "Or I can help scrub your back if you wish?"


    Shen made a grumbling noise and left the room. He let out a chuckle and searched through what little clothing the man had. Placing them against his nose, he breathed in the man''s scent. Sighing, he looking longingly at the clothing in a daze.


    "Are you unworthy of love, Ah Shen, or am I unworthy of your love?"


    Shaking his head with a defeated smile, he found a box tucked at the back of the closet. Tilting his head interested, Han Mo reached for the box lined with red and opened it. His golden eyes widened and his mouth parted in awe.


    ''This is it. This one is perfect.''


    The door slid opened and he quickly went to hide the box behind him. Wet silver hair and sharp purple eyes looked at him. The brunette couldn''t fight the softening of his golden eyes.


    "Ah Shen, I found the perfect robe, but you must close your eyes."


    "What? It is my clothing. There is no need for-"


    "Come," he placed his hand over the young man''s eyes and moved him to the small mirror, "Keep them close, Ah Shen."


    A frown captured those thin lips, but the silver haired male kept his eyes closed. Dressing the man, his fingers trailed over bare skin. Some were scarred by burns and others were old wounds. All of them beautiful in the brunette''s eyes.


    Tucking, tying, and smoothing down the tunic, he stepped back and smiled.


    ''Beautiful,'' he captured the look of the man in his mind to remember.


    "All done," he said stepping back and watching as purple eyes opened.


    Dressed in a pastel blue with the intricacy of the crane threaded in white, Shen looked more high class than he ought to be. When he was given this robe, he could not stop staring at it as if it was a dream. He had placed it away, put it out of his mind, but the brunette had to pull him back into that feeling of surrealness.


    A knock at the door and he heard his king.


    "Ah Shen," the Ghost King looked at him with such softness that his heart sighed happily, "I was hoping you wore this. You look lovely."


    He felt his face warmed from the compliment and shook his head.


    "Thank you, my king, but I do not look as such."


    He felt a hand touched his head before it slid down to cup his cheek. His king smiled at him and leaned in to place a kiss to his forehead. Shen flushed and looked down embarrassed.


    "Be more confident, Ah Shen. You are special. Also," Wang Li turned to the brunette, "I did not know you had company. Was I interrupting?"


    "No!" Shen shouted quickly before he looked down with his face flushed deeply.


    "Ah, my king, you are making Ah Shen red with embarrassment," the brunette grinned, "but I agree. There was no interruption. I only stopped by to ask if I was needed, that was all."


    "I see."


    "Mmmhmm."


    "¡­"


    "Okay! I shall see you both soon!" He waved them goodbye and closed the door behind him. His smile fell and he sighed.


    ''Have you already given your heart away, Ah Shen? Is there no place for me?''


    ==


    It felt like he was moving with the motions. The red veil over his face made it hard for him to see his lover clearly, but he already knew how beautiful Wang Li was. The sound of cheers, laughter, and bells rang in the air. Hand in hand, bows being given, Ying Yue felt as though he was dreaming this entire day.


    The only thing that woke him from the state of euphoria, was his veil being lifted and the face before him. Wang Li looked beautiful as he always had, but today he looked¡­ magical. Dressed in red, gold necklace, gems adoring his hair, and silver eyes¡­ so bright it matched the moon at night.


    For Wang Li, Ying Yue was the most beautiful person he had ever seen, even so now. Platinum blonde hair curled and twisted, held by clips and pins. He stared at the red plump lips of his lover and he squeezed the blonde''s hand in his. He loved Ying Yue and he found himself smiling knowing that his lover would be his. He wasn''t paying much attention to what was being said, but he knew that he wanted to kiss the blonde.


    Lips pressed against lips.


    He sighed into the kiss and cupped his lover''s face to pull him closer. He licked into Ying Yue''s mouth and felt his lover moved with him. When he pulled away, both were panting and grinning, then laughing with their foreheads pressed to one another. The cheers were loud and fireworks were shooting in the sky, but Ying Yue only heard the sound of Wang Li''s breath against his face.


    "Nephew," Li Yun warned and Wang Li hesitantly pulled away, but intertwined their fingers.


    Ying Yue followed where his lover, his husband, took him. Greeted everyone who had joined and blessed them. When he saw his family, he brightened up and smiled to them happily.


    "Master, brothers!"


    He enveloped them and couldn''t stop smiling, as he held onto Wang Li''s hand.


    "May the two of you be blessed with happiness," the green-haired male smiled and glanced over to where Li Yun was.


    "Thank you, master," they both bowed.


    "Congratulations brother!" The brunette embraced him tightly and he sighed into the hug. The rest of the night consisted of dancing, watching shadow play of their romance, and eating- his eldest brother was fond of the desserts provided. Now that the day was coming to an end, he felt relief.


    He was tired and his cheeks were hurting from all the smiling he was doing. Fingers slid down his cheek to wrap around his chin, his golden eyes smiled at silver ones. Closing his eyes, he embraced the lips kissing his, like a tease of what was to come.


    "Shall we go to bed, my wife?"

 Chapter 85 - One Time Is Not Enough

    "Shouldn''t we wait until everyone returns home?" Ying Yue smiled amused at his husband.


    "Mm," a peck on his lips, "I suppose."


    He let out a soft laugh and embraced his king. Placing a hand on his lover''s chest, he bit his bottom lip.


    "Be patient for a little longer," he leaned closer, "Then I will be yours."


    He saw the arousal in his lover''s eyes and that made his heart skipped. Ying Yue focused on everyone but the male beside him, leaving soft touches along his back. He focused on smiling and eating instead of the hand around his hip.


    When it was time for them to retire to their room, Ying Yue felt like he was on fire. He offered his family a place to stay before he was whisked away by his husband to their room. Lips pressed and mouths sucked, their wedding robes pooled around their feet.


    His lover''s dangerous mouth licked and left wet trails down his neck and played with his nipples. Fingers groped and wrapped around his hardness gaining a groan from his lips. Then he felt the wetness of his lover''s mouth wrapped around him and he arched his back. His thighs were held apart and he flushed deeply.


    "Husband," Ying Yue panted out and felt the hard suck making his hips twerked upward, "Ah!"


    Biting his knuckles, he tried to lower his voice, but his lover knew how to give him such great pleasure. Fingers pressed against his perineum and he felt the pressure of arousal hit him hard. Ying Yue came in Wang Li''s mouth as his entire body shook. He moaned loudly with his hips still pulsing in his lover''s hot mouth. A few more hard suck before his king pulled off and went to bit gently at his hardened buds.


    "Ah, Ah Li," he ran his fingers through dark locks, "I love you."


    He felt the deep laugh of his lover and he finally saw his husband''s face since they started. Pulling Wang Li''s face to his flushed one, he kissed and kissed. He ignored the taste of his spent inside his lover''s mouth, but he could not ignore how his body shivered happily. As he enjoyed and reveled in the kiss, he gasped loudly when he felt a finger pressing against his anus.


    "Ah¡­ Ah Li!"


    "Are you scared, my love?"


    "I¡­ it''s¡­ isn''t it bad?"


    He saw Wang Li smile softly at him and kissed the worry lines away.


    "Do you want me to stop?" The Ghost King questioned, "We could do the same thing we''ve been doing, Ah Yue."


    "I trust you," Ying Yue smiled and swallowed his nerves.


    "My dear wife, you will regret that."


    "Wha- Ah!"


    Wang Li''s tongue, his long deadly tongue was licking wet strips up and down the barrier of his anus. Hips held down, Ying Yue whimpered and twisted as he bit his lips. Then when he thought he would get used to the wetness swiping all over his crack, that thick tongue pressed into his hole.


    It moved and dug and twisted inside him, causing him to cry out. His fingers dug into the bedsheets underneath him as his body burned with arousal. His legs were pulled forward, knees pressed against his chest to give his husband full access.


    "Husband, ah! Please¡­. Please!"


    Ying Yue felt the tongue thrust into him and he could feel his manhood hardened. Then the tongue left his hole and he felt like he could breathe again, but Wang Li sucked on his balls and his breath hitched. Gasping, he mewled as his hips moved against his lover''s face. A finger pressed into his anus and he held his breath. His hole constricted and his eyes widened. Wang Li left his balls and lifted a knee over his wide shoulder.


    "Relax, my love."


    He felt kisses on his lips and he sighed into it. Lost in the hot wet mouth of Wang Li, the finger slid to the knuckle. It pressed against his walls and he bit his lips staring with wide golden eyes at his lover.


    "Did I not tell you, my love," his husband licked his lips, "I want to eat you, taste every skin of your body," Finger thrusted in him, "A beauty like you is meant only for me."


    He gasped when another finger was pressed in stretching his skin. He stared at the arousal painted on his lover''s face and it did things to his heart. He would do anything for his lover, his husband.


    Fingers pressed harder and thrusted quicker inside him. Moaning, his lips were covered with Wang Li''s and he whimpered into those thin lips. Another finger pressed in and he tightened his legs on his husband.


    "Wang Li," he whined breathlessly and his husband pulled those agonizing fingers away. Panting and trying to catch his breath, Wang Li positioned himself. He felt the head of his lover''s penis against his pucker and he flushed harder. Swallowing with anticipation, he saw the sly smirk on Wang Li''s lips as he leaned forward.


    "I will take your innocence, your purity, my love. Will you let me?"


    The bulb pressed against his anus and just the pressure was making his head foggy. Licking his lips, he nodded and it earned him a pleased purr from his lover.


    "I love you," Wang Li stated and kissed him. The slow pressed of his lover''s hardness brought a slight pain, but not enough to worry him. He pulled away from the kiss to clench his eyes.


    "Just a little more, my wife. You feel so good," Ying Yue heard and he turned with wetness at the corner of his eyes. A gasp escaped his plumped lips when the bulb was finally pushed in. His legs trembled as he panted aloud.


    Hands cupped his face and his mouth was devoured once more. During the entire kisses, he could still feel the slide of hardness pushing against his walls. Then a snap of Wang Li''s hips brought his entire penis inside of him.


    "Ugh! Ah."


    "I wanted you to be my wife for a long time, Ah Yue," Wang Li admitted softly against his hot face, "You are my purpose," kisses to take away his tears, "My reason," forehead pressed to his, "My life."


    "Ah Li, my husband," Ying Yue sighed and was starting to enjoy the slow thrusts into him.


    "Hm? Faster?" Wang Li laughed against his lips and thrusted quicker.


    "Mmph! Ah!"


    His arms wrapped around his lover and he arched his chest up, hard nipples grazing Wang Li''s chest. Hands on his hips, he felt the bed was moving along with them as the bedsheets bundled up.


    "I do not deserve you," Wang Li whispered watching the gasping from the man below him.


    "Ah Li," the blonde panted out, "I should¡­ be the one saying that."


    "Ah Yue," he pushed harder to earn a sharp gasp, "My beautiful wife."


    "Why¡­ why must I," a grunted moan left those red lips, "Be the¡­ the wife."


    "Shouldn''t¡­ the wife be the most beautiful?" He questioned picking up his thrusts.


    "Ah!" the blonde''s thighs gripped his waist tighter, "Oh Ah Li¡­ mmph¡­ why isn''t¡­ it¡­ you," his wife panted out with tears slipping the corner of his eyes.


    "If I''m beautiful," he grinned, "Then you are heavenly."


    Hips pushing and pulling as he pulsed inside Ying Yue''s tight walls; he could feel how close the blonde was. He bent forward, pulling soft legs forward as he kissed those panting mouth.


    "Oh, Ah Li," the blonde whimpered gripping his hair, "Ah, faster!"


    Wang Li did as his wife asked and thrusted harder, faster, as he tucked his head against the blonde. He could feel himself reaching his limits, so he reached down between them for his lover''s member. Fisting it in his hand, he pumped fast like his movements and heard Ying Yue cry out loudly. He quickly came afterwards, slowing his hips as he pumped into the beauty beneath him. Letting out a sigh, he pulled back kissing those red lips.


    "I can never win with you," the blonde sighed smiling, as fingers wiped the strands from his face, "My husband."


    "My wife," his husband breathed out.


    They kissed slowly, exploring one another''s crevices, taste, and heat. Ying Yue felt Wang Li moving his hips again and he moaned deeply.


    "Husband," he panted against wet lips.


    "One time is not enough, my love."


    He let out a laugh and sighed into the kiss. He agreed. Once was not enough.


    ==


    His eyes droopily opened from the feel of fingers moving up and down his side. Blinking slowly, his golden eyes caught silver ones of his lover, his husband. Smiling, he hummed happily.


    "Do you feel well?"


    "A bit sore, but I feel well enough."


    He yawned closing his eyes and felt a nibble against his cheek. Laughing, he watched his lover sit up and turned to the small table beside the bed. His eyes took in the nail marks down strong back. Flushing, he grinned looking down at the bed.


    ''Oh, I¡­ we¡­'' he blushed hard as their love making returned to his mind, ''He¡­ he was really good.''


    He sat up as well and winced slightly. A reminder that he was no longer pure.

 Chapter 86 - Could Not Deny The Beauty

    "My aunt made a special medicine for us. She states it is to take away any pain."


    "Did she think we would hurt each other?"


    Wang Li smirked at him and took a sip of the drink before pouring it in his mouth through a kiss. His husband licked the drop of liquid from his lips and pulled back.


    "Not we, my wife, me."


    "You?"


    "She knows how much I crave you, how much I want your purity," the Ghost King ran fingers up his thigh and his cheeks redden, "Now I shall look for another."


    "Ah Li!"


    "I want to, but now that I''ve tasted you, I only want more," lips touched his, "My wife."


    He sighed into the kiss and moved to lean against his lover, hovering above his husband. Before they could do more, Snow had nudged the door opened and jumped onto the bed. The large cat licked them and he let out a laugh avoiding the licks.


    "Snow, down," Wang Li said sternly and the snow leopard followed quickly. He earned a pat on the head from his master and Ying Yue covered his lips with a soft laugh.


    "Oh! I forgot Ah Li!" He grinned at his lover, "I made you a song. I wanted to play it yesterday, but you were¡­ distracting."


    "Will you play it for me?"


    "Yes! Let me go-"


    "My king," a servant bowed unfazed by their bare skin, "The Sect Leaders are here. They request an audience with you."


    Ying Yue squeaked and pulled up the red covers to cover them.


    "Prepare the halls and rooms. Let my aunt know of our guests."


    "She already knows, my king."


    Wang Li quickly stood up and dressed himself quickly. The servant still had his head bowed until the king walked passed. Ying Yue got dressed as well and went to follow his husband, but the worker stopped him.


    "Madame, you must look presentable in front of the sect leaders," the servant said and waved over the other workers, "Come, we mustn''t waste time."


    Whisked away to be cleaned and dressed, he sighed standing as his hair was brushed and pinned. Finally, he was led to the main hall where his husband was entertaining the sect leaders. Unsure why they were there, he wondered if it was to rectify not attending their wedding ceremony.


    The door was opened and he saw the sect leaders all sitting below his lover. Wang Li looked as regal and as a leader should be. He did not know how his husband was presentable in such a short time, but he could not deny the beauty of his lover.


    He bowed to the leaders with their chancellors and headed up to where Wang Li was. His husband stood and placed a soft kiss on his cheek. Smiling and sitting beside his king, he looked out to the leaders.


    "So, it was true. You are wedded."


    The leader with a beard and sharp brows spoke up with narrowed eyes. The man wore purple and held an intricate looking fan. He thought of his master and wondered if his master knew this man.


    "Is that an issue, Sect Leader Som."


    The coldness of those words leaving his lover''s lips, made him glance over in worry. Wang Li sat with his back straight, his eyes intent, and his lips thinned. Ying Yue wanted to reach out and calm his husband, but he worried it would cause an issue.


    "Ah, I knew I should''ve came," the one in blue sighed and looked at his chancellor, "Why did you convince me to stay?"


    "My lord, I¡­" the chancellor stuttered, but the man in blue waved it away.


    "I shall send a gift when I return, Ghost King. Forgive me for not being present during your beautiful nuptial."


    "I thank you, Sect Leader Po."


    Ying Yue noted the warmer tone when his lover addressed the man. A feeling crawled into his heart and clamped there. It was a similar feeling to when Sheng Shui was alive. How his king spoke with the blonde man and how he spoke with the Sect Leader¡­ Ying Yue bit his tongue.


    "Once I have your purity, I will go find another," Wang Li had told him and the blonde inwardly shook the jealousy away.


    ''Wang Li said he would stay. He loves me.''


    "He is quite beautiful, my king," the only female sect leader smiled.


    "Thank you, Sect Leader Xiao."


    Ying Yue also thanked the female, but noted the cold tone once more from his lover. The sect Leader was beautiful with her hair pined in dangling jewels and wrapped in gold. The last sect leader looked to be the oldest of them all. He was dressed in green and the chancellor was waving the fan before his face.


    ''Is a chancellor supposed to do that?'' Ying Yue wondered.


    "Enough talk about the Ghost King''s wife. Let us continue speaking about the issue."


    "No."


    "No! What do you mean by that!" Sect Leader Som shouted.


    "Calm yourself, Som," Sect Leader Po shushed, "Let our king speak of why."


    "He is not MY king!"


    "Ah Som, will you stop screaming?"


    "Enough!" The eldest spoke up sternly and they all glanced at him, "Explain, Ghost King."


    All eyes turned to watch his lover. Wang Li sipped his ginger tea patiently, and Ying Yue found himself smiling the longer he looked at his husband. A painting he wished to make¡­


    ''Oh! I should ask Wang Li if he knows the painter that painted Sheng Shui''s portrait. Then I can paint Ah Li and¡­'' he gushed and covered his lips to hide the giggling.


    Silver eyes slid over to him, as if he knew exactly what the blonde was thinking. Ying Yue pulled his hand away from his lips and smiled lovingly at the man in red. He felt fingers wrapped around his hand and he felt like he melted right there.


    "No, I will not do what you wish."


    "Why not!" Som gritted out.


    The room got cold and Ying Yue saw the changes on the sect leaders'' faces. Placing his other hand over their wrapped hands, he soothed his husband. There was a squeeze to his hand and he squeezed back.


    "Do you think I do not hear what is being said?" Wang Li questioned, but it sounded like a statement, "Taking credit for what others have done is pathetic."


    "Huh? What was being said?" Po questioned looking at his fellow sect leaders, "Chancellor, tell me."


    "Uh¡­ my lord. People say-"


    "Why shouldn''t we?" Som challenged standing up with arrogance and his chin held up.


    Wang Li narrowed his eyes and Ying Yue could feel the shiver of chill run through his veins. He cleared his throat and opened his mouth to speak, but the man in purple clicked his tongue.


    "Ah Som, stop being so arrogant!" Po pointed out with a frown, "I have no idea what is happening, but you need to calm down. Do not make my king upset."


    "Or what?" Som laughed, "He''s going to kill me? He can''t! We know it. All he is good for is-"


    Som grunted and fell back against his chancellor who caught him. Rubbing his cheek, he looked over to see the sect leader in blue standing there with a frown. Letting out a growl, he rushed forward, but was pushed back. Hitting the wall, he groaned and saw who was the culprit that dare put hands on him.


    The Ghost King left his throne to protect that baby Po.


    "We have our places, Sect Leader Som. Do remember where you land."


    "Do remember where YOU are, Ghost King," he spitted out.


    His chancellor pulled him back to his seat and he glared at the one in blue.


    "No one questions what you do, Ghost King. You''ve treated us well, we understand," the female leader stated, "Is it so wrong to take some credit for protecting our sectors, our villages?"


    "Yes."


    "¡­"


    "You lead your people and take the glory from others," Wang Li stated, "Therefore, the answer is no. To lead in lies, in falsity, is weakness."


    "How dare-" Som started.


    "Enough," the elder sighed and pushed his chancellor away to stop the fanning, "So you will no longer protect us?"


    "You do not need my protection."


    "What do you mean, my king?" Sect Leader Po questioned.


    "There are cultivators. They are the ones to rid the demons, not me. Give recognition to them or I will ignore your sector."


    "You cannot-" Sect Leader Som started once again.


    "I can. I will. Do not test me, Sect Leader Som."


    The man in purple growled and crossed his arms with narrowed eyes. After a tense moment, Ying Yue stood up and stood beside his husband. Smiling, he hoped it sufficed and calmed everyone''s mood.


    "Let us eat, sect leaders. We can discuss more after."


    "No. I will return," Sect Leader Som huffed and left without any bows to them. The female and the elder bowed and said their goodbyes as well.


    "That''s too bad, more for me," Po grinned and Ying Yue saw the tension seep away from his king. He watched and listened to the calmness, the lilt in their voices, and the smiles they shared. This was exactly like with Sheng Shui¡­


    ''Did Sect Leader Po¡­ is he also in love with Ah Li?'' He wondered and he inwardly sighed.

 Chapter 87 - Let Me Remind You

    Sheng Shui was sick and his soul is within him. Sect Leader Po¡­ he seemed healthy, but Ying Yue wondered if the man in blue was similar to the seam master.


    ''Was he hiding that he was sick too? Was he hiding how much he loved Wang Li? Am I going to lose my husband?''


    "Ah Yue," his lover startled him out of his thoughts and he looked at the outstretched hand, "My wife."


    He felt his lips stretched into a pleased grin and held that lovely hand. Held it as he spoke with the energetic male before them. Held it as they ate. Held it as they said goodbye to the friendly man.


    "Ah Po," Wang Li spoke up and handed the man in blue four talisman, a phoenix etched in each as the crisscrossed ribbon tied around it.


    "Oh, for me?" The young leader smiled happily as his chancellor breathed out a relief.


    "I trust your judgments, Ah Po. You may give it to the others if you feel they are worthy."


    "Are you certain?"


    The young leader ran his thumb over the phoenix and glanced up at his king.


    "Believe in yourself, Ah Po. You will become a greater leader than your father."


    The young leader smiled and nodded in confidence. He bowed and said goodbye to The Ghost King and his wife, holding tightly to the talismans.


    Ying Yue squeezed his husband''s hand and he smiled when silver eyes turned to him. Heading to their room and getting ready for bed. They lied down facing one another.


    "Sect Leader Po is very nice," he said softly and Wang Li agreed, "Do you¡­ Do you like him?"


    His husband turned to him and searched his face for a moment. Wang Li pulled him to press against their bodies. He felt the kisses at his temple and his lover turned, leaving him to lie on top of the beautiful man.


    "Hm, are you jealous, my love?"


    "I¡­"


    "Are you going to offer merging your soul with him?"


    "¡­"


    "My love," his king laughed and kiss his lips, "I care for them, but my heart belongs to you. Did you forget, my wife?"


    "Forgive me," he sighed embarrassed, "It seems I keep forgetting."


    "Then let me remind you," hands slipped into his bottoms, "Every moment we have."


    Oh, how much he loved his husband.


    Kissing and kissing, Ying Yue sighed into his lover''s mouth when he felt a finger slip into his hole. Biting his smile, he moved against the finger. This earned a deep laugh from Wang Li and he licked his lips. Fingers moved down to wrap around his lover''s erection, earning a pleased sound from his husband. Another finger slipped in and Ying Yue moaned tilting his head to the side. His exposed neck was kissed and nipped, as the fingers thrusted faster.


    "Ah, Ah Li," he panted, "Inside me. I want you, please."


    "As you wish, my wife," Wang Li breathed against his face.


    Pulling both their bottoms off, Ying Yue straddled his lover. He positioned himself and sat down, gasping and moaning as he went. Once he was fully seated, he rolled his hips.


    "Ah Yue," his king panted out moving against him, "So beautiful, so very good to me."


    The blonde gave a breathless laugh and leaned forward to kiss his king''s lips. Hands on his ass pressed him deeper and moving against the thrusts inside him, Ying Yue mewled with nails dug into his lover''s chest.


    "More, husband, more."


    Wang Li groaned and pulled his legs up to position his feet onto the bed. This gave him leverage to give his lover what he wanted. Thrusting his hips and gripping the blonde''s hips, he could feel his wife quickly coming for release. He could hear the gasps and moans from his beautiful blonde that told him his lover was close as well. Wrapping to press against Ying Yue''s lower back, this made the blonde''s hardness slide against his abs.


    "Ah! Hus¡­ Husband!"


    Wang Li felt the tightness wrapped around him, sucking and pressing against his shaft. The shiver wreck across his lover''s body, trembling in his arms with the blonde groaning and moaning in his ear. Thrusting his last push, he came into his wife and panted happily. Kissing his lover, he wiped the sweat off Ying Yue''s face.


    "Are you reminded now?"


    Golden eyes blinked at him with dilated eyes. Another kiss and another from his wife. He welcomed those plumped lips and soft touches. Hips moved and he groaned into his lover''s wet mouth.


    "Not yet," Ying Yue flushed.


    "Then let me remind you more."


    He twisted them and pleased his lover, his wife, all through the night to calm any insecurities the blonde had. Wang Li noted to himself to ask for more medicine and possibly ointment from his aunt in the morning. He was certain Ying Yue would need it.


    ==


    Pang Xi looked at the barrier and hummed appreciatively. The Ghost King did a well enough job creating the barrier. The area to create a barrier and portal was a smart move. It would be tough to find if Li Yun did not direct him to where the portal was. Reaching his hand out, he felt around the barrier before pushing through.


    ''I see,'' he smiled, ''The Ghost King truly loves Ying Yue.''


    His smile dropped quickly when he was reminded of what he felt. When he met his young student again, he knew something was different. Then the boy hugged him and he knew exactly what was strange. Ying Yue was no longer pure. He could feel the change in his young student''s qi and he wanted to take the blonde away.


    Yet, he could see how much Ying Yue loved the Ghost King.


    Hardening himself, he entered through the barrier and stood before the portal. He can''t see anything through the portal but the foggy black and blue. He tapped the gateway and saw the swirls moving. Pang Xi was pulling his finger back, but a hand reached out and held it. His eyes narrowed as the colors cleared to reveal deep red eyes on an upset face.


    "Ah Xi," the demon gave a sly smirk, "I knew I recognized this long finger."


    Tugging, his finger was released, and he stared intently at the raven-haired demon before him. There was deep darkness underneath those crimson eyes, lips were cracked, and the mark was filled with red. Searching those red eyes, the demon dropped his smirk and thinned them.


    "Why are you here."


    "Was told you were throwing a temper tantrum."


    "I am not!" Ye Wu stomped with a pout. Pang Xi quirked his brow and the pout turned into a deep frown.


    "Are you this upset at the Ghost King?"


    "Careful, it starts to sound as if you care."


    "You are not confined to a cell, Ye Wu."


    "BUT I AM!" Ye Wu shouted losing any calmness, "He has restricted me here! I cannot leave!"


    Pang Xi did not say anything for a moment. Fanning himself, he closed his eyes and understood what the demon is stating, but Ye Wu was not being honest.


    "You stay because of Li Yun''s vision."


    The reaction on the red-eyed demon said it all. Lips tucked in, eyes wide, and body leaned back.


    "Your worry is also mine."


    "Only cause that child of yours would be heartbroken."


    "Yes¡­ they are married now."


    "Of course."


    Ye Wu looked away with a coldness and the green haired master watched the demon for a moment. Making a decision, he reached into the portal and cupped such thin shoulder. Red eyes turned to him, interested in what the man wanted.


    "He cares for you, Ye Wu. You will not be alone."


    "And yet I am again."


    The demon pushed his arm away and stepped back.


    "Go on, Pang Xi. Leave like you''ve always had. I am used to being alone."


    Ye Wu turned away and started stepping away, but the empathetic green haired master spoke up.


    "Wait. Let us speak longer¡­ Ah Wu."


    The demon curled his lips slyly into a grin.


    ==


    The servants of the palace could hear pleasured noises from the room of their king and his wife. It would make them flush, avoid it, and whispered to others. However, in the comfort of their room, neither the Ghost King or Heaven''s Chosen were aware.


    "Ah! Mm, Ah Li," Ying Yue moaned and pushed back to take more of the hard cock inside him.


    Wang Li smacked his ass and he gasped, clenching his pucker. His milky skin was turning red with each slap, but all he felt was the pulsing thick penis thrusting into him. His mouth was opened as his face was pressed to the bed. Another smack and he moaned, earning a harder push and pull inside him.


    "My perfect wife," Wang Li breathed out leaning over to place them flat on the bed, "Only mine."


    "Mm, yes, yes. Yours, my love."


    Ying Yue breathed out and felt the quickened movement, pressing deep and hard into him. His body was forced forward, causing his penis to rub the mattress below him. Panting loudly, he could hear the deep groan in his ear and  his hips twitch.


    He was certain just listening to his husband''s voice in this way would make him come untouched.


    Wang Li came, adding to the cum already inside him, and kissed his face and shoulder. Ying Yue''s face was hot and he was flipped over, still attached, he faced the ceiling with his husband above him.


    Hand wrapped around his trembling cock and stroked, bringing him to pleasure. Moaning deeply, he bit his lips and rolled his hips. Sighing, he turned his head to nuzzle against his lover''s jawline.


    If staying in their room and pleasing and being please by Wang Li was to bring balance, then he would gladly sacrifice everything for it.


    "Again?"


    Wang Li breathed against his ear and he grinned with a nod.


    "Please."

 Chapter 88 - Beside You

    Pang Xi stared at the board and tapped his chin with his fan. He tilted his head and moved a white piece across the board. He heard a laugh from his opponent and glanced at him. Red eyes looked mirthfully at him and did not hesitate to move a black piece. Frowning, he glanced back at the board and hummed.


    "You''ve lost twice already, dearest Ah Xi," the man tsked, "Willing to lose again like all the other times you have came to visit?"


    "I won''t lose again."


    He narrowed his golden eyes at the pieces, as if they would agree with him. He heard the soft laugh and sigh from the demon before him.


    "This is good," Ye Wu said softly with a gentle smile, "Reminds me of the old days."


    He glanced at the red eyed demon to see the man staring at him with a smile like when they were younger.


    ["Ah Xi! Come with me. I want to show you something cool!"


    "Bu¡­ but I am busy! I need to get ready to meet with-"


    "It won''t be long! I promise. Trust me, Ah Xi."


    Letting out a sigh, the young green haired boy got dragged by the wrist to a hill out of the village. When he caught his breath from rushing so far, he found his eyes blinking widely at the spot. There was a lantern on the ground and as the stars began to cover the sky. He looked out over the cliff to see the village lit up, casting a glow below.


    "Ah Xi, will you join me in making a wish?"


    He looked at his friend with his ruby colored eyes and soft smile. Smiling, he joined his friend and lit up the lantern.


    "A dog?" He questioned seeing the image.


    "Represents loyalty, happiness, family."


    ''Ye Wu¡­ do you truly feel this way?''


    He stared at the black haired teen for a moment and the boy grinned at him. They lit the lantern and lifted it to the sky, as it floated into the air. Watching it further and further away, the words continued to replay in his mind. He turned to his friend to see soft red eyes watching him.]


    "Ah Wu¡­"


    "Hm?"


    "It is your turn."


    Pang Xi decided to say and stared at the board. He watched fingers moved a black piece and he moved a white piece. Their game continued quietly as his mind wandered to old memories. Inwardly sighing, he knew this would happen. He should''ve avoided Ye Wu since his return and yet¡­


    ''What is it that I want? What is it that he wants?''


    "Why did you do it?"


    "Do what?"


    He lifted his golden eyes to stare at the demon before him, "Become this way."


    Ye Wu stared at him and leaned back to straighten up. Ruby eyes observed him as the head tilted to the side, bring the locks of raven hair along. Long pale neck exposed to him and Pang Xi tightened his hold on the fan.


    "You left me. You said you wouldn''t, but you did."


    "I was called-"


    "You could have refused!"


    Ye Wu threw the board away, flipping the pieces into the air, scattering it around them. The demon had rushed forward and crawling into his lap, holding his head tightly. His golden eyes could see the fear, the anger, the sadness within those red eyes.


    "You should see the way they treated me, Ah Xi! They wanted to kill me and you weren''t there to stop them! You weren''t there!"


    "But she was-"


    The hands gripped his head tighter and he could feel the heated breath of the demon.


    "She was the one who gathered the crowd to get rid of me, Pang Xi. Your love for her blinded you!"


    "She wouldn''t! Why would she-"


    A palm covered his mouth and he stared at his friend''s defeated look.


    "Even now you defend her. Do you want to know who killed her?" Ye Wu moved closer and their lips lightly touched when he spoke, "I did. I made sure she knew that you belonged to me, that she deserved to see me take you away from her, but her actions led to her death."


    Pang Xi furrowed his brows and gripped the demon''s thin hips. He thought back on his interactions with his friends, tried to see any hints that he didn''t see, recall back moments that could lead to that. He searched ruby eyes to see the demon was waiting for him to react, to throw him off and scream at him.


    "I believe you."


    "What?" Ye Wu questioned with his voice soft and eyes wide. He could not believe what the green haired master had said. Did he¡­ did Pang Xi truly believed him?


    "You are a terrible liar."


    Lips pressed against his and Ye Wu found his heart thumping loudly. Closing his eyes, he deepened the kiss as his hands slid to wrap behind his friend''s neck. When they pulled apart, they were panting and gasping for air, as if they were underwater.


    "You¡­ kissed me."


    "Yes."


    "You kissed me."


    "Ah Wu¡­"


    "I just¡­" the demon laughed and laughed and kissed the pretty green haired man repeatedly.


    Ye Wu grinned when he felt the squeeze to his hips.


    ''Pang Xi, you will always be mine.''


    ==


    Wang Li watched his wife, his beautiful lovely wife sleep. Healing bruises could be seen on milky skin and he smirked darkly. His hand pressed against the bruises to earn a wince and a soft groan from his lover. Taking a drink of medicated liquid in his mouth, he pressed his lips to his lover''s sleeping lips. Forcing the drink into his wife''s mouth, he pulled away biting the lip gently.


    "Mm, Ah Li," the blonde sighed sleepily, before he gasped biting his lips.


    The Ghost King was touching his swollen pucker and it made his body tensed up painfully. There were kisses on his shoulder, cheek, and temple. A finger pushed in and he reached out to grip his king''s arm, digging his nails into the skin.


    "Hm, still full of my cum," Wang Li whispered deeply and licked his cheek.


    "It¡­ it hurts, Ah Li."


    The finger pulled away and he felt like he could breath. He gasped when he felt wetness against his hole and he opened his golden eyes. When he said he wanted his lover to remind him how much he had Wang Li''s heart, he did not think his husband would remind him every day since¡­ multiple times, so much that he fainted some times. Though he enjoyed every single moment, he just ends up so painfully sore.


    "My apologies, my love," Wang Li kissed his temple and just breathed him in, as his fingers rubbed ointment onto his lover.


    Ying Yue sighed as his lover nuzzled against his hair. They barely left the room since they were wedded, and he did not mind it. All of Wang Li''s attention was on him and pleasing one another, but he also knew that there was something changing within his lover. He was gentle the first time and now¡­


    "Ah!"


    He curled up biting his lips. His lover had pushing his finger inside him again and he patted his fist against his husband. The finger pulled away, but a hand squeezed against his hip and he winced.


    "Are you tired already, Ah Yue? Will you not let me please you more?"


    "I need¡­ a bit more rest."


    This earned the removal of touches from his husband. He watched his king got off the bed and dressed himself.


    "Are you leaving?" Ying Yue questioned pushing himself up slowly.


    Wang Li glanced at him over his shoulder, before leaving without a word. Blinking at the door where Wang Li had left, he went to stand. Wincing as he stood, he ignored the pain as he dressed himself. He headed to the bath, thinking his lover was there, but he bathed without Wang Li. Frowning, he let out a sigh and stared up at the sky.


    He felt a nudge at his crown and turned to see the snow leopard. Smiling, he rubbed the big cat''s ears and chin. Snow purred, enjoying the scratches from the blonde.


    "What have you been up to, Snow? Been good?"


    A pleased sound was heard from the big cat and he laughed. He missed Snow, but from what he''s been told, the snow leopard enjoyed playing with the village children. Smiling, he placed a kiss on the head of his pet.


    Getting out of the bath, he dressed and headed to eat his first meal with his new family. Wang Li was not present the rest of the day until it was nighttime. Ying Yue was sitting at the floor table with the instrument, plucking it absentmindedly. The Ghost King came in with a straight face and a cold demeanor. Dark silver eyes looked to him and Ying Yue stood up.


    "Ah Li, my husband. I missed you."


    He wrapped his arms around his lover and felt a hand smoothing down his hair. Smiling, he nuzzled closer, but the pull on his hair made him move back. Wang Li cupped his face and stared at him for a moment.


    "What have you been doing?"


    "Huh? Well, I played with Snow and went to speak with the villagers. Why do you ask?"


    "What were you playing?" The hand squeezed his cheeks harder.


    "A song for you," Ying Yue whispered searching the face of his lover.


    Silver eyes softened and the hand on his face loosened. A small smile spread across his lover''s face and a soft gentle kiss was placed onto his lips. This was his Wang Li, his husband, his lover.


    "I''ve missed you to, my wife," was whispered before his lips.


    "Where did you go, Ah Li? I should be there with you, shouldn''t I?"


    "You are my wife, not my caretaker," the Ghost King stated with narrowed eyes, but quickly softened when he saw the widening of golden eyes, "Are you worried once more? Should I remind you of my love?"


    The blonde flushed and cleared his throat.


    "I only wish to be beside you, Ah Li."


    "I know," the raven-haired male breathed out a smile and rubbed at his cheek, "Would you play it for me?"


    "Is it not too late?" He wondered and the smile dropped from his lover''s face. He watched as his king pulled away and unrobed. He followed suit and slipped into their bed after Wang Li. Turning to face his husband, he noticed his lover had his back facing him. This¡­ this was the first time Wang Li ever turned his back on him. It made his heart clenched with heartache. He turned to face the other side, back to his lover.


    The candle was blown out and darkness encompassed them. Closing his eyes, he tried to ignore the way his body tremble with sadness. Arms wrapped around him and he gasped lightly.


    "Good night, my love."


    All the sadness he felt melted with those words and he sighed, leaning into the hold.


    "Good night, my husband."

 Chapter 89 - I Prefer Your Voice

    When he woke, Wang Li was still asleep. Smiling and pressing a kiss on the man''s crown, Ying Yue moved out of bed. Seeing the guqin, he smiled and sat down to run his fingers over the strings. He looked out the window to see birds flying. Looking back down, he plucked a string before plucking more. As he played a part of his song he wrote for his husband, he was startled when he felt warmth pressed to his back.


    Wang Li''s hand was placed over his, lightly following his movements as he plucked the silken strings. He felt a small nibble against the tip of his ear and he flushed.


    "My dear beautiful wife," the sound of huskiness in his king''s voice made him shiver, "I thought you left me."


    "You are my husband, Ah Li. I will never leave yo- ah," Ying Yue trembled when hands caressed his body.


    "You better not," he heard his lover gritted out and groped his penis. The massage to his private was making him heat up. He tried to focus on his song, but his mind was bringing back memories of how good his husband pleased him.


    "You don''t¡­ you don''t need to make love with me, for me to stay, Ah Li," he panted stopping his song.


    "That is not the reason I make love with you."


    His hips was held up for his king to slid under. His bottoms was pulled down, revealing his pearly white ass. He felt the tip of his lover line against his hole and he bit his lip. When did his husband oil himself up? He wasn''t sure, but he slid down easily. His husband moved him up and down, pushing and pulling inside his walls.


    "Wang Li, I¡­ I can''t finish my song."


    "Do you not know you already created a song for me, one that I have replaying in my mind and dreams?"


    "Wh¡­ ah, ah¡­ mean¡­ mm¡­"


    He was pushed forward onto his knees, but Wang Li''s hand cupped under his jaw, making his back arched. Hands on the musical instrument to hold him up, his face was turned, and his lips were sucked. Panting and gasping, he closed his eyes enjoying his lover''s thrusts.


    "The best song I''ve ever heard was your voice," his husband panted deeply in his ear and his body trembled, "The sounds you make when we make love, I wish to always hear it."


    With that admittance, Ying Yue found his entire body flushed so deeply, he was certain he would be confused with a tomato.


    Wang Li thrusted faster and harder against him, causing him to roll his eyes back. His nails dug into the wood when his husband twisted and pulled against his nipple.


    "My pretty baby," Wang Li whispered heatedly into his ear and he came twitching back into the hard shaft inside him. When he came to, he laid against his lover as his body was used to pleased Wang Li. Tightening his hole, he heard the groans and the bucking of his lover''s hip before the pounding slowed to a stop. Fullness, he felt so stuffed as his legs trembled.


    He felt the glide of hot hands running up and down his chest and stomach. The wetness of his spent smeared across his skin with his husband''s hands and he flushed embarrassed. The dirtied fingers pressed against his mouth and he parted his lips.


    The taste of his cum wasn''t something he found arousing, but to be tasting his lover''s long thick fingers in his mouth was. The fingers were pulled out of his wet mouth and replaced by his lover''s tongue.


    When they pulled apart, a trail of saliva followed and he looked dazed at his husband. A thumb swiped the saliva off his lips and Wang Li sucked it in his mouth. He felt his lover slowly pulled out of him and he whimpered from the loss of fullness, as cum slipped down out of his hole. Sighing, he felt a washcloth wiped his behind to clean him up. Wang Li kissed his butt cheeks and he smiled abashedly.


    "I worked so hard to come up with this song, but you preferred¡­ me¡­ my voice during¡­"


    "Yes," the Ghost King smirked and kissed his cheek.


    "Do you want me to teach you? I... I mean play. Do you want me to teach you how to play?" He stuttered out the offer with a laugh as he pulled his bottoms back on.


    "You want to teach me?"


    "Yes, if you want and¡­ Would you teach me how to paint?"


    "Why?"


    "I want to paint you."


    Wang Li smiled that soft lovely smile and Ying Yue reveled in the brightness. A kiss was pressed on his lips and he leaned in with a sigh. His husband made him so happy. This, this was his Wang Li.


    "Very well, my love."


    ==


    Han Mo and Xu Ling stared at their master. Ever since the green haired man had been speaking with the red eyed demon, their master looked paler. A cough wrecked through the elder''s body and they quickly went over to help him sit down. The man smiled at them and thanked them as he took out a black handkerchief with red emblem of a dog from his sleeve.


    "Master, you have not been feeling well since-"


    "I am fine, Xu Ling. Do not worry," their master said wiping his lips.


    "You are not fine! We are not children. That demon had done something to you."


    Pang Xi stared at the black cloth in his hands as a memory replayed itself.


    ["Pang Xi¡­ what are you holding?"


    "This is a gift," he smiled and pressed the cloth to his nose. Taking a deep breath, he sighed happily.


    "It''s from her."


    "Yes."


    "Well¡­ I want to make you one too!" Ye Wu frowned and took a hold of his hand, "Let''s make one for each other too, Ah Xi."


    "Eh? Why?"


    "Come on. Please?" Red eyes rounded with a pout to his lips.


    "Alright¡­ I can make one for her too."


    Ye Wu mumbled under his lips as they went to the stalls to buy fabrics. When they returned to the hill, their favorite spot, they began threading an image or a name, until the sun started setting. His golden eyes saw the black cloth in his view, and he took it. He looked at the emblem and found himself smiling.


    "A dog."


    "Mm."


    "Well, here."


    Pang Xi grinned and handed one of his to his friend.


    "I guess we thought the same."


    "Thank you, Ah Xi," Ye Wu said softly and smiled at him with that rare gentleness.]


    "Master?" Han Mo questioned and Pang Xi shook his green hair.


    "Remember what I said. We all must make sacrifices to restore the balance. Ying Yue''s task will be difficult, so we must all do our best to help him."


    "How can you help him if you die."


    "Ah Ling!"


    Pang Xi shut his eyes and pushed himself to stand. He looked at his students to see the worry written on their faces. He offered a smile and went to his zither. Settling himself before it, he began playing and closed his eyes.


    ''Will you keep your promise to me, Ye Wu, or will you be the one to betray me this time?''


    ==


    Ying Yue and Wang Li were kneeling before the small shrine and bowed lowly as the incense burns. Once they were finished, they entered the study hand in hand. Helping Wang Li practice was¡­ challenging. It always led to him gushing and to them kissing then¡­


    He smiled shyly and looked over at his husband who was sitting over at the other table. The first time he tried painting, he was so embarrassed by the disproportion of the image, he wanted to rip it up. However, Wang Li had accepted it with an adoring smile and advised him to try again.


    Dipping the brush in the ink, he glanced over at his lover. He felt a sense of pride at winning the most beautiful husband. Sweeping his brush and making strokes on the paper, he glanced up every so often to capture the man in red.


    "Are you finished?" Deep voice, so smooth covered his skin.


    "Almost, stay still," Ying Yue said with a smile.


    "Alright," Wang Li sighed and continued what he was writing.


    After a long moment of sweeping of brushes, the blonde finally felt ready to share his work.


    "Alright!" He heard himself say getting up excitedly, "What do you think?" He asked turning to paper to show the man.


    His golden eyes watched as the man in red stood up and headed over. Silver eyes held the paper and hummed.


    "You''ve improved," Wang Li nodded turning to him.


    "I know!" He laughed happily staring at the image before sighing, "Still can''t catch your full beauty though."


    He turned to see that soft smile on those thin lips once more, as those platinum eyes softened.


    "You can continue to practice if you''d like?" He offered.


    "I''ve already wasted so much of your time," Ying Yue shook his head.


    "No time of mine is wasted when I am with you," the Ghost King stated wrapping an arm around his waist, "Anything of mine is yours."


    ''He truly knows how to speak,'' Ying Yue''s heart sighed happily.

 Chapter 90 - Rawness Of Want

    "Is that so?" He grinned and tip toed up, "Even this?"


    He pressed his lips to Wang Li to feel him smile. Pulling back, he saw the beautiful man nod.


    "Everything," the man in red whispered before capturing his lips once more.


    "Wang Li," he whispered out closing his eyes and giggled when his lover nipped at his cheek, "Stop Ah Li. We should go eat."


    "After we cross blades," the Ghost King smirked and he brightened. It had been awhile since they had sparred. Pecking his lover''s lips, he grabbed Wang Li''s hand in his.


    "Let us go now, husband!"


    "Are you so quick to battle me, my love?"


    "Yes," Ying Yue grinned, "Because I will understand your fighting style and better fight beside you."


    "Beside me¡­" The Ghost King stared at him lovingly as he felt fingers pushed his hair behind his ear.


    "My love, did you think I would fight against you?"


    "You are to kill me, Ah Yue," his husband reminded him and he frowned shaking his head.


    "No. Never."


    He leaned in and kissed thin perfect lips. He pulled back and sighed when he received a kiss to his forehead. Happily satiated, he grinned dopily as they walked out of the study. As they headed to the courtyard, he noticed the servants steered cleared from them.


    Ying Yue remembered the constant greeting and bows anytime the servants saw them, so why were they being avoided? Lost in thought, he didn''t realize they were already at the courtyard.


    He saw Wang Li turned to him and pulled his hair back. Blonde locks bundled into a ponytail, his lover tied it with a red ribbon. A kiss to his forehead, the man in red stepped away. His golden eyes watched the raven-haired male turn to him with a smile. Curling his lips, Ying Yue prepared himself.


    "Sword."


    "Slayer."


    A small breeze flew by, ruffling their sleeves and hair. Then, the lovers clashed swords with quick speed. Ying Yue missed this, missed the adrenaline, miss learning his lover''s strength, miss the feel of Wang Li''s spiritual energy against his. Sweat beaded on his forehead, but he welcomed it all. Swords clanged and he laughed happily as his lover smiled warmly at him. Another round and another, with the final clash of swords, they were panting with grins on their faces.


    "My strong husband," he sighed when they pulled away to end their spar, "My arms feels like noodles."


    "You are just as strong, wife," Wang Li kissed his forehead, "Let us eat."


    Ying Yue saw three servants speaking to one another happily and he greeted them. When they turned, their smiles dropped and their heads lowered.


    "My king, Sir Yue."


    "Are you all well?" He asked and they glanced at one another for a moment.


    "My wife asked you all a question. Do not make him wait."


    Ying Yue glanced at Wang Li who was looking down at them from under his nose and the blonde tugged his hand slightly. When silver eyes looked at him, he frowned to show he didn''t like this behavior.


    "We are well, Sir¡­ Madame Yue."


    "Ma¡­ madame?" His cheeks reddened and he stuttered out wanting to ask about the change in title, but Wang Li had already pulled him away. Stuck in his mind, he went over what he was just called.


    ''Madame? Is that not¡­ degrading? I am a man!''


    ''But you love when he calls you wife.''


    ''But¡­ But¡­ I¡­ he¡­ Madame?!''


    ''¡­ Madame Yue¡­ it sounds nice¡­ doesn''t it?''


    "What are you thinking of, Ah Yue?" Wang Li questioned as they settled down at the table.


    "Non¡­ nothing."


    "You being as red as a rose is nothing, my wife?"


    He flushed even more and he tried to hide himself with his sleeves, but his lover gripped his wrists and pulled it down. Moonlit eyes took in his redness, his wide golden eyes, and his slightly parted plumped lips.


    Ying Yue saw the mirthful quirk of his husband''s lips before they pressed against his. Sometimes kissing Wang Li was like being devoured by a beast. The rawness of want, of need, of possession was in every suck, every tangle, every touch.


    A clearing of cough was heard.


    Wang Li continued, but Ying Yue was feeling embarrassed for being caught. The blonde pushed the man away slightly, but his husband kept on. Forcing himself to use more force, he pushed his lover harder.


    There was the sound of a growl as the man in red was on his prey. Quickly grabbing the blonde''s wrist, he pushed him against the wood and proceeded to-


    "Nephew!"


    Like a bucket of cold water doused upon him, he blinked for clarity. Wang Li looked to see he had pressed his wife face first onto the table like an¡­ an animal! Pulling away, he stumbled backwards with wide silver eyes. The blood on his face dropped at the thought of what he was doing. Was he going to¡­ take advantage of Ying Yue out in the open?!


    The Ghost King struggled with his thoughts and he groaned pressing against the mark under his left eye. The pulse against his palm was stronger than before and he pushed himself up. Stumbling as he walked, he felt warm arms holding him steady.


    ''Ah Yue, my beautiful kind wife, what have I done?''


    Pushing the arms away, he left the area and attempted to leave the palace for a moment. He just needed-


    "Ah Li, wait!"


    ''Can''t¡­ must leave. Have to clear my head or I will-''


    "Let us go to the lake. It had been so long."


    ''The lake?''


    He stopped in his walk and pulled his hand away from his face. Slowly turning to look over his shoulder, he saw his wife holding a prepared meal in his hands and a patient smile. How did his wife¡­ did Ying Yue knew this would happen to him? Did his wife plan-


    ''Stop!'' He panted leaning against the wall, ''He wouldn''t.''


    Soft fingers caressed his face and he saw worried golden eyes staring at him. Offering a smile, his  fingers ran from the temple to the chin of his lover.


    ''This, my Ah Yue, my beloved wife¡­ he is incapable of wishing harm on anyone. He is golden and has a pure heart.''


    ''His heart is not pure if you are the one he''s given it to.''


    The laugh grated against his skin, peeling him like cheese. Wrapping his arm around his lover, he pressed the blonde''s head against him and breathed. His fingers spasmed as he clutched long platinum locks.


    "Let us go, okay my husband?"


    He felt small light kisses where lips pressed and he inhaled his lover''s honey rose scent. Closing his eyes, he calmed his mind, his racing heart, and his emotions and focused solely on the man in his arms. Exhaling deeply, he pulled his wife back and placed a gentle kiss on red lips.


    "As you wish, my love."


    A brilliantly bright smile that rivaled the moon itself was aimed at him. How lovely was his wife, he truly did not deserve him.


    Traveling to the lake was quiet and Ying Yue held tightly to his king''s hand. Something was wrong, he could feel it. Wang Li¡­ there was a shift somewhere and the blonde worried his lips as he wondered why this was happening. Was his lover''s need to create chaos stronger? Was his stay not helping? Was he not bringing balance?


    ''No! This¡­ this must work. I will find a way. I can help.''


    Settling under the tree and facing the lake, a cool breeze flew by and he shivered slightly. An arm wrapped around him and he laughed, softly leaning toward the warmth. Pulling out the containers, he held the bowl filled with rice for his lover.


    Once they were both eating, Ying Yue kept glancing at the mark underneath Wang Li''s left eye. He remembered the first time he saw it on his husband and compared it to now. Not too much difference, but there was a redness against the mark, like blood ready to seep out of the scar and that unnerved him.


    "I told you, you should be afraid, Ah Yue."


    "Hm? Of what?"


    He looked at his husband to see him looking at the bright sky. He could look at his lover all day and not be hungry, but he preferred a relaxed Wang Li than the defeated look on the man''s face. Scooting closer, he placed a hand on his lover''s heart. The blood pumping into the organ and expanding it throughout the body eased his troubled mind.


    Wang Li was okay. He will be fine.


    "Of me."


    His fingers curled and his body stilled involuntarily, leaving the Ghost King sighing. He was pushed back to sitting on his own and he pouted. Trying to lean back, his lover kept him in his place.


    "Ah Li¡­"


    "Something is wrong, Ah Yue," Wang Li admitted softly and thumbed his cheeks, "I do not wish you harm."


    "What if I¡­ What if I like some harm¡­"

 Chapter 91 - Ripped My Pant

    He flushed and he saw his husband''s eyes widened as redness crept up the beautiful face. A clearing of the throat, Wang Li pulled away from him, but the red tint on his ears made Ying Yue bit his grin.


    "Is that something you like too?" Ying Yue whispered bashfully and Wang Li made a wounded sound.


    "You must stop, Ying Yue. Do not speak any more."


    Wang Li covered his red face, aroused and confused with his lover. Pure, safe, kind Ying Yue enjoyed¡­ enjoyed being hurt? He couldn''t bring himself to lay hands in such a way with his wife! He would never! He couldn''t-


    "Whatever you wish, my husband, I shall do my best."


    He looked at his wife and felt his entire body softened to such admittance. Kissing his lover''s lips, he kissed Ying Yue slowly and softly. He felt hands on his chest and waist. Kissing deeper, he earned a pleased moan from his wife. Pulling slowly back, he felt Ying Yue follow his lips and he bit harder on his lover''s plump bottom lip.


    He earned a gasp from the blonde and he bit harder. The taste of blood entered his mouth and he removed his teeth. Licking the opened skin, he moved back cleaning his own lips.


    "Did that hurt?"


    He watched as his sweet wife licked his bottom lip and covered it with his palm. He watched as his lover looked over at him under long golden lashes. Flushing as he nodded, Ying Yue earned a laugh that turned into a grin. Forehead to forehead, Wang Li sighed and rubbed his wife''s cute reddened ear.


    "I love you."


    "I love you too¡­ Ah Li, promise me. Promise me you will tell me when something is wrong."


    "What would you do if there is?"


    "I will fix it!"


    Wang Li looked closely at his lover and saw the serious face watching him. He breathed out a smile and nuzzled against his wife with closed eyes.


    ''How can you fix me, Ah Yue? I am broken and yet¡­ You still love me.''


    "Thank you, beloved."


    As they held one another, the Ghost King opened his eyes.


    What was once silver was now red.


    ==


    Ying Yue smiled as he continued to write into the light green book. Sitting in his favorite spot in front of the opened door, he could smell the plum blossoms sent through the study from the light breezes. He sensed something strange and glanced up to see his husband''s figure. Smiling, he got up and went to the door. Pausing to lean against the rails, he saw his husband staring at the small shrine dedicated to Sheng Shui.


    He touched his chest to feel the warm tug mixed with Wang Li''s.


    Walking out, he slowly stood a few feet behind his lover. The air felt colder and he glanced up at the sky to see the clouds were coming in.


    ''Is it going to rain again?''


    Ying Yue walked over to Wang Li and reached for his hand, but the man in red pulled away from him. His golden eyes sent big puppy eyes at his lover, but silver eyes stared at him coldly.


    "Ah Li¡­"


    "You killed him."


    "¡­"


    "Used him to keep me. Heh, pathetic."


    Ying Yue swallowed hard as his fingers trembled. Taking a deep breath, he opened his mouth to explain, but his mouth was cupped to shut him up. He stared at the cold face staring back at him.


    "What are you going to say? That it was for me? That you sacrificed his chance at reincarnation for me? Do you think I am an idiot, wife?! You are selfish and disgusting."


    Those words from his husband felt like they were being spit on him with fire. He felt tears welling up in his eyes and he swallowed the hurt away. Looking away, he felt the tightening on his jaw and winced.


    "I should have known all you are is beauty. You would be nothing if it wasn''t for it."


    Narrowing his golden eyes, he gathered his energy to his palm and pushed hard against his husband. Wang Li stumbled back for a moment, eyes widened and brows furrowed. Ying Yue looked away from the raven-haired male and turned, walking away.


    "Ah Yue? Ah Yue!" Wang Li called out and rushed to him, "Did I¡­ I hurt you again?!"


    He was turned around and the silver eyes that he saw were filled with fear and worry. Wang Li removed his touch on him and stepped back for a moment to shut his silver eyes away.


    "Go back to your brothers, Ying Yue. I¡­ I will only continue to hurt you. I cannot forgive myself for-"


    "Stop."


    Ying Yue said softly and smiled at his husband. He reached his hand out to the man in red.


    "Come, my husband. I am tired."


    Wang Li did as he asked and walked him to their room, undressed one another, and laid down facing each other. Lying on their bed, Wang Li did not touch him or kissed him like he normally did. He just stared at him with sad silver eyes and Ying Yue just smiled.


    ''Ying Yue,'' his master''s words reminded him, ''There will come a time when you are lost, abandoned, afraid. Your brothers will protect you as much as they can, but it is you who has the power to do this.''


    ''I choose to stay with him,'' Ying Yue ran his fingers over the perfect face of his husband, ''I choose to protect him, Master.''


    He leaned in and kissed his lover deeply. He could tell Wang Li was being careful, but he kissed deeper, longer. Turning them so he straddled his husband, he ground down into his king and earned a grip on his hips. He pulled away and saw the lust filling his husband''s eyes and¡­ cock. Biting his bottom lip, he watched half lidded as he moved once again.


    "Ah Yue. Are you trying to get me to change my mind?"


    One of Wang Li''s hand moved up his back to cup at his nape. His body shivered and he kissed open mouthed, as his tongue tasted his lover. He rubbed harder and he heard the groan in his mouth. Wang Li pulled back panting against his own breathless mouth. Hands slipped into his bottoms and he felt the nips against his jaw, neck, and shoulder.


    The sound of ripping caught his ears.


    "My dear wife, what a beautiful seducer," Wang Li breathed deeply in his ear as he sat up with him.


    Ying Yue felt the tip of his lover''s penis hard, demanding against his hole.


    "Ah Li, oil¡­ we need oi-"


    He gasped and squeezed his eyes, fingernails digging into his lover''s shoulder. The stretch hurt more without any preparation. He tried to calm down and relax, but Wang Li was large and he felt every inch of it even more. Tears pricked at the corner of his eyes and he told himself to keep breathing. Only a quarter in and he was trembling.


    Tongue licked his salty tears away as he continued to breath slowly.


    "Shall I pull out, my love," Wang Li questioned with that indifferent tone and his golden eyes searched his face. This tone of his lover had been coming more and more often, replacing the warmth he remembered. The look on his husband''s face... straight, unbearably blank, and cold.


    "You¡­ ripped my pants¡­" he mumbled and lifted himself off his lover''s cock slowly, "Watch¡­ watch me."


    Taking off his ripped pant, Ying Yue bared himself before his lover. He flushed deeply and reached for the oil. Ying Yue oiled his fingers and sat on the bed, spreading his legs for his husband''s gaze. He bit his lips and pressed fingers into his hole, watching as his husband spread his legs wider. Wang Li''s silver eyes were observing the tug of skin wrapped around fingers and he felt heat rising all over his body.


    The Ghost King wrapped his hand around his hard-leaking dick and watched his wife open himself up for him. He stroked himself slowly, wetting himself with his precum and licked his lips. Lifting Ying Yue''s leg, he nibbled on the small ankle and sucked up from calf to inner thigh. He could hear the moan from his beautiful wife and he licked his lover''s balls, before sucking it.


    "Ah! Oh," Ying Yue moaned loudly as he pushed into his fingers harder. He gasped when tongue licked up his shaft and mouth sucked hard at his tip. He moved against the lips and paused his fingers from thrusting, too caught up with the hot mouth around his manhood. His fingers were pulled off and mouth pulled away. He blinked slowly, huffing and panting, only to be grabbed and handled to straddle Wang Li.


    "Oh, Ah Li, mmph," He slowly took his lover inside him, but Wang Li thrusted up, forcing him to take his entire cock in one go.


    "Ah! Mm... Ah... Li.. LiLi..."


    Mouth took his, plundering as if looking for treasure as his husband forced him to fuck into the throbbing penis. Biting his lover''s lip as Ying Yue pulled back to breath, he bounced on the hardness inside him, tugging and bringing them to pleasure.

 Chapter 92 - Impregnate Me

    He felt hand in his hair and pulled him to the side where his vulnerable neck was free for his lover to taste. Then a movement and he mewled as the thrust hit him right where his prostate was. Mouth opened and trying to participate with the tongue in him, but Wang Li thrusted up into him and he whited out.


    The feeling of euphoria washed over him and he groaned bouncing faster. He arched his back and moved deeper as hands gripped him harder. Ying Yue could feel the pulsing of the thick, hard, throbbing cock inside him.


    "My husband," he panted out and felt teeth grazing his neck, "Please. I want you to fill me, make me full of you," he tightened his hold, "Impregnate me."


    A deep groan escaped his lover''s lips as teeth pierced his skin. Thrusting quicker, he screamed loudly when he felt the cum spurt into him with each thrust over and over. He fell against his husband and whimpered when Wang Li rolled his hips. Shivering from exertion, he heard a deep laugh and a lick curling his ear.


    "Impregnant you? What a lovely gift. I shall, my dear wife."


    Ying Yue felt his back on the bed and moaned loudly as his husband moved once more.


    "I will keep going until you are heavy with my cum."


    Wang Li said darkly and Ying Yue''s body trembled, like a leaf shaking in the wind.


    His husband pulled his legs up to one side and moved once again into him.


    "Ah, my love."


    "Faster?" His lover chuckled deeply, "As you wish, beloved."


    Hips smacked against his ass and he moaned. He felt hot mouth sucking his nipple as if he could lactate, milk just for his husband. He clutched his lover''s shoulders and dug his nails into skin.


    "Ah! Ah Li! Love you! Ah!" Ying Yue shouted as his lover''s large hands gripped his hip and chin.


    Mouth sucked his gasps and moans, even the whimpers and shakes out of his mouth. His body was vibrating and his body curled biting his lips. His already hard penis was fisted around hot palm and his eyes rolled back with his mouth parted, drools slipping down his lips.


    Moaning loudly, his hips bucked into his lover and he heard the breathless laugh against his ear.


    "Mm, yes, beloved," Wang Li pounded into him harder, regardless of the sensitivity his wife was feeling, "Let me hear your song for me, Ying-er."


    "Mm, my husband, ah, please," he whimpered and begged, moving against his lover''s thrusts.


    Wang Li grinned and that was all he remembered seeing, before his entire world blacked out, until all he felt was the thick cock pulsating his swollen hole.


    ==


    Ying Yue winced as he practiced his swordsmanship. Each move made him limp and he grimaced feeling the burn. Placing his hand on his tail bone, he sighed and headed to the study to meditate. Smiling and waving at the people, they stared at him and bowed slowly.


    He unconsciously pulled up his collar more to hide the bite marks from Wang Li.


    Flushing from the thought of the long night full of multiple pleasures, he covered his face slightly with his palm. This was not the first time; there were many nights where he was overcome with pleasure that his entire body melted with every move of his lover. Ying Yue knew, he knew Wang Li had become less gentle and more rough, less sweet talk and more dirty talk.


    The blonde sucked his bottom lip into his mouth and stared at the sky.


    The weather became a bit chillier.


    He shivered and wrapped his arms around himself, before he felt arms enclosed around him. Sighing, he smiled leaning into the warmth. A kiss was pressed to his temple and he turned to stare so lovingly at his husband.


    "Do you feel alright, Ah Yue?"


    Fingers tucked his bangs behind his ears, rubbing the tip before pulling back.


    "A bit sore, but fine," He smiled and earned a kiss to his forehead.


    "I might have been too rough last night. I shall be more careful."


    ''You''ve said the same thing every time,'' Ying Yue thought and wrapped his arms around his husband. Whether his husband was aware of it or not, this was Wang Li, the one he married and love.


    "Are you feeling well?" He decided to ask, and Wang Li hummed, "That is not an answer, Ah Li."


    "I always feel good when I lay with you, my love."


    Ying Yue flushed as red as the rose and snuggled closer to his lover''s warmth. He heard the light laugh and fingers trailing down the back of his head.


    "I do too," he mumbled and a chuckle escaped his lover''s lips. He found his own lips curling into a grin.


    "Ah Li, did Ye Wu tell you anything useful regarding¡­ What is happening?"


    He walked with Wang Li to the courtyard where Snow was currently lying under the large tree.


    "He told me much, Ah Yue."


    "Hm? Like what?" Ying Yue questioned sitting beside their pet and rubbing the head.


    "Have you spoken with your master? Ye Wu said he has the answers to why I am this way¡­ Why I have been hurting you."


    Silver eyes looked sad and remorseful at him, but Ying Yue only kissed his husband''s lips, as if he could kiss away the pain.


    "You are right, Ah Yue. He has taken a liking to your master."


    "I knew it! That was why he kissed him."


    "¡­"


    "Did you not know?" The blonde grinned and giggled, "He had all of us caught and all he asked was for my master to kneel and beg to him. My master did and Ye Wu kissed him."


    He laughed seeing the surprised face on his lover''s face and he pecked that handsome face. Wang Li laughed and cupped his face to deepened the kiss.


    "My wife is quite intelligent. I feel honored to be your husband."


    "You sweet talk," Ying Yue blushed and nuzzled their nose together. Sighing happily, he heard a meow and turned to the big cat. What he received was a long wet tongue going across his face. Wang Li laughed hard as Snow continued to lick him.


    "Snow! I love you, but please, no more kiss-ah!"


    The snow leopard only felt more zeal to crawl onto his lap and lick some more. He turned his golden eyes to ask for help from his husband, only to see the raven-haired man laughing happily. His eyes softened and he decided he would sacrifice his entire face to be slobbered for his husband to be happy.


    ''I will speak with my master and find out how I can help you, Ah Li. I will want you to always be happy.''


    ==


    Madame Yun had her eyes closed, taking in the smell of jasmine. The calming aroma swift around her nose and she inhaled, but she was not relaxed, far from it. What was happening with her nephew? Tightening her hand on the teacup, she pinched her lips.


    "Sister?"


    The silver-haired female breathed out of her nose and opened her eyes. Her little sisters, not true sisters, yet she cares deeply for them. Taking a sip of the tea, she sat it down and offered a smile.


    "Do not worry, little sister."


    "Not worry? Ah Yun, did you see the way he looked? It was like¡­ like he was a monster eating up Ah Yue. It was scary and mesmerizing and-"


    "Ah Chu," Yun spoke up and looked at her tea, "That is enough."


    She knew her sisters were scared, worried of their king and she was too.


    "His wife is not afraid, so why are you?"


    "He is afraid, eldest sister," the blue haired female stated, "Right, Ah Hien?"


    "Sister, I worry Ah Yue will get hurt. If Ah Li acted as such from just kissing¡­"


    She rubbed at her temple and hummed. It had been many nights since that day and she had not witnessed anything extreme as such from her nephew again¡­ but she will have to speak with the boys.


    "Let us go eat," she offered a smile and hoped it sufficed a bit until she learned more.


    As they headed over to the eating area, gossip caught her ears.


    "He was screaming so loud, like he was crying."


    "I heard Suna cleaned up broken items in the room."


    "Yes and the blood! There were blood there again."


    "This is happening a lot lately. I worry for Madame Yue."


    "I agree. He was wincing a lot when he was meditating."


    "Yes. When he was practicing his swordsmanship too."


    "Are you done gossiping?" Madame Yun spoke up coldly and the servants turned sharply to her. They bowed lowly and reddened from getting caught.


    "Apologies, Madame Yun," they said and she narrowed her eyes.


    "I suggest you focus on your duties. You do not want to be punished by my nephew, would you?"


    They shook from the threat and went to their knees asking for forgiveness. Sighing inwardly, she was really feeling her age. Walking away, the twins followed and they finally sat down at the table.


    "Elder sister," the blue haired female started with a whisper, "I have also heard Ah Yue crying sometimes as well."


    "Do not gossip, Ah Chu. It is unbecoming of you."


    Lips pursed, her sister sat back with a pout. Was she too harsh?


    "Ah Chu," she started with a sigh, "If there is an issue, he will tell us. Let us ignore it for now."


    "My apologies for arriving late," the blonde smiled as he walked closer.


    "Where is my nephew?"


    "Ah, he left. I am sure he will return tonight."


    The meals came out and they ate. They spoke, smile, and laugh as if her nephew was not an issue. Her eyes drew to the bandaging around the blonde''s wrist as the chatter continued. A servant came up to them and handed a letter to Shen. The boy stared at him confused and the servant left them alone again. Purple eyes blinked confused and looked around him.


    "Go on, open it! Who is it from?" Chu said excitedly and leaned closer to eye the letter.


    "My king," Shen answered and opened to stared at the paper confused.


    "Ah Shen," Ying Yue  laugh, "What did my husband write to you?"


    "He wants me to¡­" the white-haired boy glanced at the brunette beside him, "¡­ hold him."


    "¡­"

 Chapter 93 - Let Him Fall

    "¡­"


    "Let, let me see," he set his tea down reaching for the note. Eyes reading the note, he laughed softly as his eyes softened, "He must really love you."


    "I am certain he wrote the wrong name," Shen, eyes of purple shook his head.


    "When he returns, you can hug him and see," he waved the note, "If this was for me or you."


    "Aw, Ah Shen," Hien looked at the white-haired boy with hands clasped before her chest, "It had been a long time since you received a hug from him, right?"


    "I don''t need a hug," a frown graced the boy''s lips, but the redness against his ears told them otherwise, "His acknowledgement is enough."


    Ying Yue patted the boy''s head with a smile. A feeling of relief and affection surrounded his heart. Wang Li cared deeply for Fu Shen and in turn, so did he.


    "Snow," he called out and the beast trekked toward him and sat placing his large head on his lap.


    Running fingers through the fur and massaging the large scalp of the big cat, everyone returned to their work, but Yun stayed as he patted the animal.


    "Why is your wrist bandaged?" Her voice was just as poignant, clear, and cold.


    He glanced at his wrist and shook his sleeve to cover it.


    "It is nothing Madame Yun," he excused, "Do not worry."


    He felt a hand hold onto his arm and pulled it closer to the female. He tried pulling his arm back, but the look in those eyes narrowed at him. Fingers removed the bandages and his eyes saw the bruises on his wrist. Purple and green bloomed on his delicate skin. His eyes looked over to see concerned in her purple eyes.


    "It is him again," Yun stated and rewrapped his wrist, "What happened this time?"


    "An argument," he let out a breath and pulled his arm back to rest on the table, "Something so trivial."


    "It had been happening more lately," Yun stated looking at the distance, "He will not be able to control himself. That demon," she clenched her hand on her thigh, "It must be his doing."


    He laughed softly, sadly, "Do not worry Madame Yun," he looked down at Snow who was watching him with big blue eyes, "I will find out what is happening to him."


    "How much are you willing to give," the silver haired female questioned softly, "... to find out the truth?"


    "Everything," he answered with no hesitation, continuing to run his fingers through soft fur.


    Wang Li, his husband was getting worse and he tried¡­ he really, really tried. He was running out of options and ideas¡­ he truly had no idea what to do anymore. When he closed his eyes, he saw warm silver eyes and soft smile on addicting lips. This was his husband.


    Not the cold distant man he now lay with. If he ever spoke to him, Wang Li would have such resentment, such spite to his words that made Ying Yue feel as if his heart was shriveling up.


    ["Ah Li, what is wrong?"


    "Stop asking me."


    "I am concerned, husband. You''ve been so-"


    "How I am is due to you. Your fretting is making me angry, wife."


    "I-"


    "Shut up!"


    "But-"


    His lover grabbed his wrist and squeezed it tightly, aiming cold angry eyes at him. Heated breath covered his face and he searched his husband''s face with furrowed brows. A scowl covered Wang Li''s face and he hardened his trembling heart.


    "You are annoying and your incessant pestering is making you less and less attractive to me. I rather be in the arms of a whore than you."


    He slapped his lover, hard and filled with anger, as his heart clenched with tears. He heard the deep growl from his husband and he was pushed against the wall. He gasped and slipped to the floor staring at the floor, refusing to cry before his cold husband.


    "Don''t you dare touch me again, wife. I will not warn you again."]


    Shaking his blonde head, Ying Yue knew that was not Wang Li. That was not his kind special lover. His husband would not touch, speak, look at him that way. He needed to speak with his brothers, maybe they would help him figure something out. With that in mind, he stood up and said his goodbyes to the elder female.


    "Ying Yue," Yun spoke up and he paused looking at her, "My nephew will fall. Let him."


    "What? Why?" He felt anger stirring in him. Why would Yun even want to let her nephew be sucked into darkness? It didn''t make sense to him.


    "The heavens will see to it that the prophecy is uphold," she sounded defeated in his ears, "Do not make him struggle, Heaven''s Chosen."


    "No! It¡­ I will find a way! I will not-" he stopped himself and turned away. Rushing past Snow who made a worried sound, he went to the cabin in the hill. Banging on the door, his heart was banging just as loud. He had to find a way. He needed to. He was not going to hurt Wang Li, never!


    No one was opening the door and he fell to his knees clutching his chest. Shutting his eyes, the image of his lover smiling, whispering lovely words in his ear last night reminded him that his husband was good. He had to be.


    "Ah Yue?"


    He inhaled sharply and turned to see his brothers and master walking toward the cabin. Tears welled up in his eyes and he rushed to them. He didn''t know who it was he was hugging, but he held tightly as he cried on them. A hand was placed on his head and he cried harder.


    "Ying Yue, what is wrong?" His master questioned worried in his tone.


    He pulled back and realized he was hugging his eldest brother. Wiping at his face quickly, he looked down filled with an ache in his heart.


    "It was the Ghost King. He hurt you."


    He hiccupped and fisted his hands against his robe.


    "Please, I don''t know what is happening to him. I¡­ I need to help him. Please help me."


    Pang Xi watched his young student begged with red rimmed eyes. He could see the worry in those golden eyes and the defeated look on his weary face. He thinned his lips and looked over at the cabin.


    "Let us go inside, Ying Yue."


    They entered the cabin and sat down. The brunette went to heat water for tea and that left the redhead and the green haired master watching the blonde. Ying Yue closed his eyes and the exhaustion was hitting him. His shoulders felt heavy with the weight of his burden, his worry, and the confusion.


    "Tell us what has occurred."


    "Master¡­" he hesitated, "I¡­ I know something is wrong with him."


    "With the Ghost King?"


    Ying Yue nodded.


    "He''s colder¡­ gets angry easily."


    "He''s hurt you," the redhead stated with narrowed eyes.


    "I¡­ yes, but! But I still love him. We spoke and he told me he is seeking assistance on understanding what is happening to him. I''m trying my best to help. I fear it is not enough. I need help. Please. Anything to assist me in helping him."


    There was a quietness in the room and the brunette poured them the heated tea. He drank the tea and exhaled a deep breath. Looking at his family, they all seemed to be avoiding his eyes and that worried him.


    "What is it?"


    "Ah Yue¡­" his kind brother spoke up gently, coddling him with his tone, "You should stay here with us again."


    "I''m not leaving Ah Li. He''s my husband, brother."


    "You asked for help, right? Staying here with us, with your family, will help our king."


    "I don''t understand?"


    He saw his brother glanced at their eldest brother and their master, as if asking for permission. He tilted his head to his master who placed his teacup down on the table. The green-haired man sighed and looked at him with sadness and grief.


    "You are cursed, Ying Yue."


    "¡­ what?"


    "Did the Heavens not speak with you?"


    "He had twice, but he, he only said that I was wrong. I thought he meant what I''ve done to help Ah Li. Are you telling me he cursed me?"


    "Ah Yue¡­"


    "What was the curse? I need to know. What does it have to do with Wang Li? I¡­ please tell me."


    "You are the curse."


    He snapped his head to look at the redhead. What did his older brother mean by that? Brows furrowed and forehead creased as he thought about it.


    "Ying Yue, you said your husband had gone to see the demon. Was there any advice?" His master questioned gently.


    "I''m not sure¡­ sometimes he seemed normal, then other times he isn''t. I don''t think there was much changes, but Wang Li is trying to see if it was the need to create chaos. Madame Yun told me¡­ she told me to let Ah Li fall, let him give in and create chaos but I cannot do that. I cannot leave him and watch him give up all his goodness. I can''t."


    When he was done speaking, Ying Yue was breathing hard and his heart was having a hard time going back to beating normally. Pressing his hand against his chest, the blonde squeezed his fingers, as if to settle the thumps pounding his chest.


    "Ying Yue. Your choice to stay with the Ghost King was not in the Heaven''s plan. Therefore, Jade Emperor had done what he felt was needed."


    "To put a curse on me?!"


    "¡­Yes."


    "What is the curse? Master, please be honest with me."


    "The longer you stay with your husband, the more goodness you take from him, the quicker he gets to being true evil¡­" his master cupped his shoulder and looked at him sadly, "Do you understand, Ying Yue, what you must do?"


    Tears slipped down his face once more and he stood up quickly. He bowed and headed to the door, pausing as he stared at the ground.


    "I understand," he whispered and left the cabin.

 Chapter 94 - Make Love To Me

    Staring up at the sky, Ying Yue shut his eyes letting the tumbles of tears fall. Heading back to the palace, his mind was in a jumble with what he had just learned. He was¡­ it was his fault Wang Li was this way. It was him who continued to follow his lover. Him who said he would fix it when it was him who was the problem. Wiping his eyes, he jumped on the roof to avoid the villagers.


    He did not want to speak with them, he just¡­


    He doesn''t know.


    When he reached the compound, he saw his lover with Snow. The big cat was smiling as he jumped and parried with his master. The man in red was laughing and twisting happily at the play. Ying Yue felt his heart constricting painfully. He watched for a while, taking in the relaxed features of his lover and his pet.


    Silver eyes glanced up to his golden ones. Warm smile sent his way and Ying Yue returned it.


    He watched as Wang Li jumped onto the roof and walked toward him. A breath away from his face and his golden eyes continued to take in the beauty of his husband. Soft hands cupped his face and he blinked slowly.


    "My love, you''ve been crying."


    Wang Li''s voice was soft and sad. Thumbs wiped the tears that continued to slip down his cheeks. He felt a kiss on his forehead and he leaned on the touch.


    "Forgive me."


    He shook his head and wrapped his arms around his husband. He held him tight as he cried against his lover''s neck and chest. Warm hands rubbing up and down his back. It should be comforting, but it only made his mind worsen with thoughts. Taking a deep breath of plum blossom and wood, he pulled back and kissed his husband.


    "I love you."


    "And I you, my beloved wife."


    "Make love to me," he whispered and Wang Li searched his face before nodding.


    They made love the rest of the night. Soft were their lips and hands. His husband entered in gently and he threw his head back. Strokes and thrusts, gasps and moans, shivers and groans enveloped him in pleasure. He wasn''t sure how many times he said he loved his king, his husband, but it would never be enough to show how deeply he felt for the man.


    "Ah! Husband!" He shouted and came shooting ropes on the bedsheet. Hands clenched tightly on the bed, as his lover thrusted deep and paused hip to hip. He shivered and tried to catch his breath with his face pressed to the mattress. The hardness of Wang Li''s was still in him, evident and twitching.


    Pushing himself up on his elbows, he panted rolling his hips.


    "Insatiable today, my beautiful wife," the Ghost King bit gently on his shoulder to his neck and stopped to whisper.


    "It is your fault, my husband," he laughed softly before a hitched in his breath was heard.


    Hips rolled and thrusts were felt, pressing the hardness against his prostate. Ying Yue bit his lips as a groan came from deep in his chest. Teeth grazed along the curve of his ear to the curve of his neck. His lover sucked against his pulse point and he mewled happily. The thrusts picked up and he trembled from sensitivity, but he welcomed all the love he felt from Wang Li''s touches.


    "I love you, Ah Yue," Wang Li panted against his ear and he twerked his hips harder.


    "Me... me too," he moaned as fingers tug at his hard nipple.


    "I thought it was I you love, my wife. How can I compete with you."


    "Hu... huh?" Ying Yue tilted his head to look over his shoulder, heavy lidded eyes saw silver aroused one.


    Wang Li covered his opened mouthed with hot lips. He whimpered as his lover pulsed into him, slightly off centered to hit perfectly at his bundle of nerve. Panting and moaning, their saliva mixed, dripping down his chin. His bottom lip was bit into and pulled, as hips stuttered and a loud groan erupted out of his husband''s chest.


    When his lover climaxed, he followed like a shadow.


    Warmth embraced him and he let himself be handled in whatever position his lover wanted.


    He was insatiable not for sex, but for his lover''s touch.


    Morning came and he watched the sleeping form of his lover. Gliding his fingers over the skin of the demon mark, he pulled away. Leaving the bed as quietly as he could, he headed to the bath. It was a quick bath because he had to get his mindset in place. Walking around the grounds, he took in the beauty of the areas, the people, the colors, and the fullness of life.


    A strong chill flew through the area and he rubbed his arms. He chuckled despondently at the situation he was in, Ying Yue couldn''t help how the weather seemed to agree with him. Shaking his head, he headed to his room, the room he had not used since he married Wang Li. He reached for a blank notebook and began writing. Tears reached his eyes and dropped onto the papers.


    Covering his eyes with his hand, he cried hard against his palm, feeling the tears slipped through his fingers.


    "The Heavens truly despise us this much," he whispered into the room, "Wang Li, forgive me."


    He took a deep breath and finished his writing with tears still falling down his cheeks, as his heart stuttered and breaks.


    ==


    He sat and felt the fingers pulling pieces of his green hair, crossing and tucking them tightly. Once the braids were in place, arms wrapped around his neck and he felt the demon nuzzled his temple. He reached up and held onto the hands for a moment, before letting out a sigh.


    "What is wrong, Ah Xi?"


    "I worry for them."


    "Our pupils," the demon sighed against his ear and moved his palms to caress the strong chest, "What is there to worry about? The prophecy will happen and with me stuck here, I won''t be the one to kill the Ghost King, your child would be."


    "I know."


    The hands paused and fingers curled under the master''s chin, lifting to the side to face the demon. Red eyes searched his face and the demon thinned his lips.


    "You are sick."


    "Yes."


    "¡­"


    ".."


    "Because of me."


    "¡­"


    "Ah Xi."


    "Hm?"


    Ye Wu kissed him and for a moment, Pang Xi thought he saw the golden light of his emperor. Blinking his golden eyes, he saw the tension in red eyes and he smiled. His friend¡­ now a demon, all because he wasn''t here to protect him.


    ''Is how they are, punishment for the results of us, Ah Wu? Is it on my failure too?''


    He coughed and turned away from the demon. Sweat slipped down his temples as his body crumpled to the floor with blood slipping out of his lips. He laid there for a moment, trying to breath, trying to live just a little longer. Eyes closed, he took a deep breath and exhaled shakily.


    There were dabs against his lips and he opened his eyes to see Ye Wu lie down with him. He just stared at his friend and wondered if in a different life, they would be friends again, maybe more, or maybe they would be enemies.


    "You still have it."


    He mumbled sending a soft smile, as his cloudy golden eyes stared at the handkerchief in the demon''s hand. Dark green with a golden emblem of a dog.


    ''Loyalty, friendship, family. Was that not what you said, Ye Wu, so many centuries ago?''


    "I will never part with it," Ye Wu replied softly and ignored the blood on the ground, as the demon moved closer to press their foreheads together.


    "You should have never been this way, forgive me."


    "Never," the demon stated shutting his eyes, "I will never forgive you, Ah Xi."


    Ye Wu heard the soft breathless laugh against his face from the green haired man. Fingers touched his face and he opened his ruby eyes. It slowly glided down prominent cheek to his neck before wrapping around his hand.


    ''Pang Xi¡­''


    When the green haired master returned to the realms after the Heavens took the man from him, Ye Wu had already turned against humanity. The anger in those golden eyes, the regret, they etched in his memories for so many moons, but now¡­ now they look at him with¡­


    "Then it will forever be my regret."


    He stared at the demon for as long as he could, before feeling the heaviness in his heart.


    "Will you take care of them, Ah Wu. Will you follow through on your promise?" He whispered and he felt a kiss to his lips.


    "No."


    "Liar."


    Voice lowered and eyes shut, he felt arms pull him in closer. As his breathing slowed, he felt wetness against his face, and he let out a small curl of his lips.


    ''Goodbye, Ah Wu. May the heavens treat you well.''

 Chapter 95 - I Must Leave

    Ying Yue sat under the plum trees at the study. It was his favorite place and the smell reminded him of the calmness his husband brought with him. Warming his hands by blowing on them for heat, he sighed quietly looking at the ground. Warmth spread against his back when he felt heaviness on him. Looking to see what it was and flushed seeing the color of the coat.


    "I knew you would look beautiful in this," Wang Li pulled his hair out and pecked his lips.


    "Ah Li¡­" he stared at the fabric wrapped around him and bit his bottom lip when he recognized what it was, "Is this the coat for¡­"


    "Someone special, someone I am courting?" His lover smiled amused, "Yes."


    "It was¡­ me?" He whispered quietly and blinked wide eyed at the man.


    "Did I not tell you, my beloved, I''ve wanted you for quite a long time," his husband rubbed his thumb over his plumped lips and cupped his nape. He shivered lightly and stepped forward so the only scent he smelt was Wang Li''s. They kissed and the blonde sighed happily with a smile, gushing from such attentiveness.


    "Let us eat, husband," he said leaning against his lover. The Ghost King nodded and they headed to the dining area.


    Ying Yue smiled over at Wang Li as they settled at the table with the ladies waiting for their meal. The elderly woman who always gave them their tea headed to them with the tray. The clinking of teacups could be heard as the woman neared.


    Ying Yue looked worriedly at the female and attempted to stand to help, but Wang Li gripped his wrist to stop him. Glancing at his lover, he opened his mouth to speak but the woman had made it to the table.


    The tray clinked onto the table and the woman looked ghostly white.


    A heartbeat. Two.


    "My apologies, my king. Please¡­ please forgive me."


    "Are you afraid of me, servant?"


    Ying Yue widened his golden eyes in shock as he turned to his lover. That was degrading and to have his husband speak in such a way¡­ he just couldn''t believe it.


    "I asked you a question."


    That statement made the hair at the back of his neck stand. He heard the gasp from Hien and Ying Yue knew he wasn''t the only one noticing this change of demeanor.


    "Y¡­ yes, my king."


    "A punishment will be given."


    "Punishment? Ah Li, she did nothing wrong," Ying Yue tried to defend the female, but Wang Li glared at him in such intensity that made him shiver.


    "Do not get involve. I am the king here."


    "Ah Li-"


    "Do you not listen!" Wang Li gritted out, "Do NOT get involve."


    "I will accept punishment, my king," the old woman with her head still bowed lowly on her knees.


    The woman was shaking, frightened to the core. Ying Yue wanted to speak again on the female''s behalf, but he caught the stare from Yun. She shook her head and he worried for the woman. He had never seen Wang Li punished anyone, but from the way his lover spoke¡­ he worried that it was dea-


    "Death."


    There were gasps heard from those at the table and servants watching them. Ying Yue grabbed his lover''s arm and looked pleadingly at him. Wang Li glanced at him with a deep frown before turning to the old female.


    "You have been with us for a long time. Who would take her place in death?"


    The silence made Ying Yue unable to sit still. Still clutching to his husband''s arm, he would not let that woman die or anyone if he could stop it. Ready to offer himself, the white haired young man spoke up.


    "I volunteer."


    There were murmurs from the audience and the shocked gasps from the twins. Shen placed the food tray on the table and stood tall before them. His eyes were steady and he looked calm, but Ying Yue could see the small shakes of the boy''s hands.


    "Fu Shen, you wish to finally die."


    "If it is what you wish."


    "You volunteered to die in place of this woman."


    "I do. She is the only kind person that helped me when I was younger, my king. I owe her."


    "You owe her?"


    Wang Li laughed darkly and stood up, pulling his arm away from the blonde. A grin, not like any Ying Yue had ever seen, was on his husband''s beautiful face. Ying Yue followed and stood as well, feeling on edge.


    "So you do not owe me? I saved you. No one cared for you and I, the Ghost King, took you in and gave you a home. If I didn''t, you would have died!"


    "I owe you everything, my king."


    "Then I did not give you permission to volunteer, did I?"


    "¡­"


    "Did I!"


    "No, my king."


    "Know your place, Fu Shen, or you can leave the grounds."


    "Ah Li, you do not mean that!" Chu spoke up in shock.


    "You may join him."


    "Nephew! Do not speak so rashly," Yun said sternly, but earned a laugh that chilled her bones.


    "Auntie, I do not need you any longer. You are old and path-"


    A slap was heard and everyone''s eyes widened. Madame Yun, elegant and strong, had hit her nephew across the face. Ying Yue moved to stand between the female and his lover, protection for who, he wasn''t sure. Was he going to fight Wang Li? Was this what the prophecy foretold? His heart was racing and his fingers itched unsure if he needed to call for his sword.


    "I apologize," the Ghost King spoke up softly, "¡­ for all that I have said. Please forgive me."


    Ying Yue stepped forward and reached out to cup his lover''s face. Looking into silver eyes he remembered, he wrapped his arms around his husband. Rubbing the man in red''s back soothing, he glanced at everyone worriedly.


    "Punishment will be given."


    "Madame Yun."


    "Heh," Wang Li started before he broke out into loud laughter that chilled their bones. Ying Yue stepped back as his heart pounded in his chest.


    Eyes revealed not silver but red.


    "You think you can do as you please, auntie?" The Ghost King grinned with his eyes dipped, sharp as needles, "I am the Ghost King! I do not need to listen to you, any of you."


    "Ah Li," Ying Yue swallowed as crimson eyes turned to him, "Stop this. This isn''t you."


    "And who am I?"


    The cold arrogance within his voice solidified the blonde''s decision.


    "You are my husband. Kind, caring, and protector of many. You, Wang Li, is the man I love. Please, stop this. Come back to me."


    He saw red eyes waver during his speech and it cleared to silver. He let out a breath through his nose and smiled. He reached out touching his lover''s face, but Wang Li stepped away with a gasp. He saw his husband clutched at his left eye and blood seeped down fingers. Ying Yue''s golden eyes widened.


    "My king-" Shen called out.


    "Ah!"


    Wang Li screamed loudly falling to his knees, gripping the table before him. He felt hands touching him, trying to comfort him but it only led to his skin itching like a fever. Words were being said but he didn''t hear them through the sound of his ears ringing loudly. Gasping trying to catch his breath, he tried to focus on his wife. His soft face and loving smile, his light blonde hair and his plump red lips, and Wang Li found himself breathing softer.


    A drop of rain fell to the ground.


    Rain, slowly fell before it poured soaking his clothes. Ying Yue could hear people scrambling to get under the roofs, but his focus was on his husband. He knew what he had to do, what the reason for it was and it hurt him like a knife twisting in his chest.


    "I need to leave," he whispered and he forced his legs to move.


    "Ah Yue-" Hien tried but he shook his head and walked faster.


    "Please take care of him. I have to leave. I am hurting him."


    "What are you-"


    He didn''t listen and ran. Ran all the way to the front doors and Snow made a wounded sound, alerting him of who else he was leaving behind.


    "You stay with him. Protect him, Snow," he whispered, rubbed his head, and continued to the entrance and halted from the words of his lover.


    "You''re leaving?"


    The sound of the rain fell harder like a deep massage against his skin. He paused with his hand on the door, ready to push the hard wood aside to exit. Not turning, he stared at the ground in tears.


    "Yes."


    "You said you wouldn''t leave me! That you will fix me! Ying Yue! You are my wife!"


    Wang Li sounded desperate in his ears and he wanted to turn to his lover. He wanted to run into those strong arms and live in the brightness of his husband. Fingers shaking as he bit his lips, he shut his eyes and inhaled sharply.


    "I am sorry."


    "Sorry?! Don''t leave me, Ah Yue. I need you."


    Ying Yue trembled, but held as firmly as he could and pushed the door. He slipped out of the door without turning back. He closed the door and heard the loud cry from Wang Li, causing himself to flee in tears.


    ''I''m sorry. I am so sorry, Ah Li. Please, forgive me! Forgive me.''


    The rain continued to fall for the next week. It fell when he read his master''s letter. It fell like the tears in his heart, flooding and suffocating him.


    Then, the rain stopped.


    The cry of demons sounded loud into the air and Ying Yue knew it was time. The prophecy will come to head.


    The cycle will be complete.


    Wang Li will die.

 Chapter 96 - Mini-Aftershow Featuring Ying Yue And Wang Li

    Host- "Hello everyone! Welcome to Heaven''s Chosen Aftershow! Today we have our very special guests! We will start with the first one. The beautiful platinum blonde, confused as a female, and Chosen One of Heavens. Ying Yue!"


    Smiling shyly, he waved at the audience with big golden eyes.


    Ying Yue- "Thank you for having me. I am honored to be here."


    Host- "Ah~ so perfect, isn''t he?"


    The audience screamed in happiness and claps could be heard. Ying Yue laughed softly against his white soft blue sleeves.


    Host- "Before we bring out our other guest, how are you doing Ying Yue? We just got done with your past and¡­ it was hard not to feel for you. Was reliving it hard for you?"


    Ying Yue- "I¡­ Yes."


    The room was silent and they all waited to hear from the platinum blonde. The guest looked down at his hands, wringing them with closed eyed. A deep sigh left his lips and he proceeded to continued.


    Ying Yue- "I love Wang Li. I don''t think I would ever stop, but to walk away from him¡­ it was painful. It was like, I was ripping my entire heart out each time."


    His eyes watered and the audience sniffled, wiping their eyes as tears slipped down their faces. The host held out some tissues for the blonde guest, who took them with thanks. The host hummed for a moment before speaking up.


    Host- "That does sound painful. Did you truly think you could help Wang Li? From what we saw, you only gave in to his demands."


    Ying Yue- "W¡­ What?"


    Host- "I''m not trying to be mean, Ying Yue, but¡­ You just let him have his way with you."


    Ying Yue- "That''s not-"


    Host- "Don''t get me wrong. It was hot and sexy, but you accepted any pain, however long, and even bled on the bedsheets from him. Did you think doing that would actually help him?"


    Ying Yue- "¡­"


    Host- "Did you?"


    Audience whispers could be heard and the blonde glanced at them before turning to the host. Golden eyes turned to the host and lips pursed.


    Ying Yue- "Making love to Ah Li and whatever he had done, I accepted it. I enjoyed it as well, but that is not the only thing I tried. I tried to be near him, love him, and respect him. I know now that it only made things worse. It only made him more angry, more closer to falling. If¡­ If I had known, I would had left long ago! If I knew that the more I am with him, the more we make love, the more I hold him would make things worse."


    The blonde guest covered his eyes as his body shook with his breathing.


    Host- "I do not mean to make you cry, Ying Yue. I think it is time we hear from our other guest! I am sure he is ready to join since our beautiful blonde sat down. Welcome Wang Li!"


    The raven-haired guest entered the space and the audience swooned with awes. Silver eyes narrowed at the host, as he sat down pulling the blond against his chest. He bent to place a kiss against the Heaven''s mark on his lover''s forehead and glared at the host of the show.


    Host- "Eh, don''t be angry, Wang Li. You were the one who hurt him, you know. I am only asking questions that we all want to know, right audience?"


    The audience cheered and clapped, but suddenly stopped with silver eyes narrowed at them.


    Ying Yue- "I tried¡­"


    The blonde mumbled against the hold and the raven-haired male lifted his lover''s face and kissed plumped lips. They kissed for a moment and the audience flushed and giggled. The host coughed and cleared the throat to gather the guest''s attentions.


    Ying Yue- "Apologies."


    The platinum blonde flushed with fingers wrapped around Wang Li''s.


    Host- "We can see you both love one another, but we still have questions. So, Wang Li, you always seemed to have known the changes before Ying Yue did. Why do you not just tell him? Why make him go ask his master or his brothers?"


    Wang Li- "I want him to stay with me longer."


    Host- "So you knew he would leave, but you still didn''t tell him. Is that not wrong? You forced Ying Yue to figure things out that he was the one hurting you. You saw and heard how hard it was for him¡­"


    Wang Li- "You are blaming me."


    Host- "Yes."


    Silver eyes shut, before opening to stare at the pretty man in his arms. Pressing their foreheads together, he shut his eyes and breathed in his lover. He thumbed freckled cheeks and placed a kiss to his lover''s nose.


    Wang Li- "I am selfish. Forgive me, my love."


    Ying Yue- "So am I."


    Wang Li- "I always hurt you. I still am."


    The platinum blonde laughed softly and kissed the raven-haired male''s lips. They kissed gently and softly, feeling their breaths mingled and tongue touched. Fingers, light against one another, trailed along exposed and covered skin.


    Host- "Well¡­ we can see these two can''t stop touching one another. That is why their intercourses are so hot. Am I right?"


    The audience laughed and agreed, making Ying Yue pulled away with a flush. He felt a light nibble against his cheek and he giggled pushing his lover away. His left hand was held in Wang Li''s and he watched as lips pressed against his ring. His body relaxed and he blinked slowly, lovingly, at his beautiful husband.


    Wang Li- "You are my world, Ah Yue."


    Ying Yue- "Ah Li¡­"


    Another kiss and the blonde smiled into it. When they pulled apart, he sighed and leaned against his lover. Turning to the side, he saw the audience covering their noses. Glancing at the host, Ying Yue blinked at the tissue.


    Host- "You two¡­ are just¡­ SO GORGEOUS!"


    The audience swooned with sparkly hearts and stars in their eyes. Ying Yue flushed and grinned, leaning against his lover. The host cleared the throat and hummed.


    Host- "We ended the story with Wang Li going to die. Is that going to happen next chapter?"


    Ying Yue and Wang Li glanced at one another before looking to the backstage.


    Wang Li- "You will have to read the next chapter to see."


    Host- "Eh? But-"


    Wang Li- "Next question."


    The host sighed.


    Host- "What should we look forward to in volume 3?"


    Ying Yue- "You will see more of the sectors and their leaders. Um, Ye Wu has an important role, right?"


    The platinum blonde looked over at his husband and the silver eyed man smiled at him.


    Wang Li- "Yes. Ying Yue and Snow becomes a child at some point. Also, we have sex."


    Ying Yue turned to him with ears red and lips tucked.


    Wang Li- "Quite delicious to hear all the sounds my beloved makes and when he uses his mouth to-"


    Ying Yue covered his mouth and he laughed against the palms. Pulling Ying Yue closer to him, he nuzzled against the blonde''s temple, leaving kisses.


    Host- "Wow, sounds like there is a lot for us to look forward to! Let''s go to the audience! Looks like we have a question from Bonnie_Hopper_RN. Go on hon, ask your question."


    Bonnie_Hopper_RN- "Ghost King, did that demon put a curse on you baby, because I don''t want to believe you did this."


    Ying Yue- "Baby..."


    The platinum blonde frowned at his lover and tightened his hold. Wang Li placed a kiss to his forehead and hummed.


    Wang Li- "The demon, Ye Wu, marked me. The curse you speak of is from another. One with more power, one who wishes for the prophecy to be completed. You will meet him soon, if not already."


    Host- "Oh right! What was this prophecy again?"


    Wang Li- "For Heaven''s Chosen to kill the Ghost King to bring balance."


    The audience gasped and the room fell into sadness. Ying Yue held his lover tighter and pressed his cheek against his lover''s. He shut his golden eyes and wished that day never came. The palm on him was warm, the heart beating against his on was real, the breath against his ears meant Wang Li was alive.


    Host- "Oh... Uh... Bonnie also said she believed you wouldn''t do this."


    Wang Li- "Do what?"


    Host- "I believe she meant harming your beloved."


    Wang Li- "I would never wish harm to Ah Yue from myself or others. Only when we make love and he wishes it."


    Ying Yue- "Ah Li..."


    Wang Li- "You have a beautiful ass, my wife. I cannot help but touch and lic-"


    The platinum blonde covered his lips and he laughed. Ying Yue cleared his throat, trying to rid the heat off his body and face. He smiled to the crowd and looked at Bonnie before the host.


    Ying Yue- "Thank you Bonnie, I hope we answered your question. Is there any other before we go?"


    Host- "Looks like you both got lucky there were only one question! Then we look forward to having you back here at the end of volume 3. Maybe we will have the others too!"


    The audience cheered calling out names of the other characters in the novel. Ying Yue felt a kiss on his cheek and he turned to feel a kiss upon his forehead. He pressed a kiss to his lover''s cheek and was about to pull back, but his husband cupped his nape. Nails ran down his skin and he gasped shivering.


    Wang Li- "Let us return my love so I can take care of you."


    Ying Yue sighed and leaned against him with his eyes closed. He suddenly felt himself lifted, thrown over his lover''s shoulder, and carried away. Flushing, he looked over to the audience and the host to see them taking pictures of the moment. Covering his face, he tried hiding behind Wang Li''s raven locks.


    Host- "And they are off! Well everyone, I hope you all enjoyed and if you have any questions for next time, be sure to comment! Author will leave an announcement for when the next aftershow will be! Bye!"

 Chapter 97 - Forgive Me

    ["YING YUE!!!" Wang Li shouted out his lungs as he pointed his sword at him, "You! How dare you!"


    "Ah Li," he whispered to see the hatred warping inside of his husband.


    Eyes red as blood stared into his golden ones. The sound of screams and roars echoed around them. People were dying, demons were creating chaos, and Wang Li¡­ the one who was to protect them was here in front of him¡­ wanting his blood.


    "You must stop Ah Li," he spoke softly, "If you wish for my death, I will give it to you," he smiled at his husband, "Just stop this."


    The laugh that escaped his lover''s lips were raw, terrifying, and intimidating. A grin stretched across the raven-haired beauty''s face.


    "My na?ve wife," Wang Li tsked shaking his head, "I am playing my part. This is what they deserve, death," crazed eyes watched him closely, "And you, my love, cannot stop me."


    "This isn''t you," he cried out.


    "Of course, it isn''t!" His husband shouted out angrily, "You took it! You took what was in me!"


    Swords clanged with one another, sending shockwave of crackling power.


    "You knew and you still stayed," the red eyes male gritted out, "You took what was mine!"


    "I¡­ I tried, Ah Li," the blonde pleaded, "I tried to make it work. I didn''t want to leave you. I love you."


    "You love me?" Wang Li laughed, "No, you never did. You stayed and ruined me. You should''ve just killed me, Ah Yue. This is all your fault!"


    Another clash and another to have them pressing against one another.


    "Death would be much easier to handle than this, dear wife," the raven-haired male said coldly, "You wish for my torture. You wish for me to forfeit."


    "No!" Ying Yue pressed against the blade with his, "That isn''t true! Once I knew nothing I was doing was helping, I forced myself to leave. Please Ah Li! I would never wish harm to you."


    "Shut up!" Wang Li jumped back, only to throw himself forward once more.


    Golden glow and black light fought each time their blades met, leaving cracks and scorched around them. The lake, the moon, and the sparkling stars watched as the two lovers fought: one wrought with anger, the other with guilt. Their fight took them onto water.


    Blades and feet sliding and moving as water splashes and arched.


    "Please Ah Li," he tried again, "I love you."


    "Ah Yue," his golden eyes widened slightly, hearing the soft tone he missed for so long, "I love you too, but you betrayed me."


    A strong push had him skidding backwards, but he quickly blocked the attack from his husband. All those times they practiced and spar¡­ he knew his every move, just like his husband knew his. There was no way either one of them would win, but¡­


    ''Ah Li,'' he thought sadly blocking the hard swings of his lover, ''If this is how we will end,'' he saw the blade aiming for him and he closed his golden eyes, dropping his sword into the water, ''Then know that I love you even now.''


    He felt the sharpness of his lover''s blade pierced through his chest, through his heart, through his core, and out of his back. Blood leaked out his mouth and wound. Wrapping his arms around his husband, he pulled him in closer, causing the blade to push deeper into him.


    ''Know that I would do anything to stand beside you¡­''


    "Ah Yue¡­ AH YUE!" He heard Wang Li shout trying to pull him back, but he held on.


    ''Let me hold you¡­ a little longer¡­''


    The blade was gone from his chest, but it didn''t stop the bleeding, it didn''t stop the tears, it didn''t stop the guilt.


    He felt his husband covering his chest, as if he could heal it somehow, prolonged the inevitable. But he couldn''t. There was nothing to be saved.


    "Ah Yue," he felt arms wrapped around him tightly and he felt the ground beneath them, "Don''t leave me¡­ Ah Yue¡­ I am sorry, please¡­ don''t leave me. This  wasn''t supposed to happen!"


    Too weak to hold on, he easily followed when Wang Li pulled him back to search his face. Smiling with what energy he still had, he ran his fingers over his lover''s face. Memorizing every curve, every dip, every scar through the blurriness of his eyes.


    "Jade Emperor!" The Ghost King shouted, "Save him! Save him please! Please¡­" his lover cried.


    He was pulled close to his husband and felt lips against his. Listening to him cry against his ear, golden eyes looked to the moon.


    ''Will you look at the moon and think of me Ah Li?'' He wondered and closed his eyes, ''My husband¡­ I forgive you.''


    The last thing he heard as he faded into darkness was the agonizing scream from his king, from his husband, from Ah Li.]


    His eyes opened with a start and he leaned over to cough hard. Hand pressed against his chest, he cried and cried. So that was why¡­ that was why Wang Li always looked at him with such deep sadness. Covering his face, he sat in his bed for awhile and looked out his window. The moon watched him in its crescent form, as if it birthed the truth in him.


    "Wang Li," he whispered feeling the chilly air cooling his heated skin, "Forgive me."


    ==


    He did not dream. There was nothing but darkness where he stood.


    He sensed another person here with him and turned to see a man with sunflower hair and orange eyes. The man had a grin on his handsome face wearing fine delicate clothing. A few feet away, the blonde stopped and watched him with an understanding, like the topaz eyed man knew he would arrive.


    Ying Yue knew who this was. There was no denying the similarities.


    "Sheng Shui."


    "Hello, Ah Yue."


    "¡­"


    "Eh? You still upset with me? I promise, I wanted to tell you it wasn''t me that you keep yelling at. Those memories are not mine, Ying Yue."


    "I know. I know¡­ they are mine."


    The man looked at him empathetically and walked toward him.


    "You¡­ you are shameless, Sheng Shui¡­ I had to deal with people upset with me, but it was you."


    "Eh¡­ forgive me, but¡­" Sheng Shui grinned with a quirk of a brow, "I enjoy bedding with people and my experiences, were helpful, weren''t they Ah Yue? You couldn''t stop touching our king."


    "Th¡­ that''s¡­" Ying Yue blushed and covered his mouth with his sleeves, as if to hide his reddening cheeks.


    "Hm? It isn''t different, Chosen One. You enjoy him inside you, touching you, kissing you. Being pleasured by our king is a feast."


    "Ah Shui!" Ying Yue covered his face flushing red, "Stop it!"


    The golden blonde laughed at Heaven''s Conduit''s embarrassment, before letting out a sigh.


    "He is beautiful, Ying Yue, and he makes you happy."


    "Yes¡­" he felt his ears were hot, but he blinked his golden eyes at the man before him, "I am sorry Sheng Shui. I have neglected you this whole time. I was really¡­"


    "Jealous? Clingy? Obsessive?"


    He covered his face and heard the light laughter before a hand cupped his shoulder.


    "Don''t be. Now that our souls are back, I can now feel you and him."


    "Ah Shui! Don''t¡­ don''t say it like that," Ying Yue felt like a tomato.


    "Especially when you both make love like before. So good is our king, isn''t he Ah Yue? Mm, the way he tastes and his large mmph-"


    Ying Yue covered the shameless man''s lips as his entire body flushed. He really did not want Sheng Shui to speak on such matters. Wang Li was his husband and for Sheng Shui to speak in such¡­ such terms¡­


    "Eh? Ah Yue, I have no idea why you are so shy," Sheng Shui pulled the hands away, "I feel what you feel so when Wang Li brings you to pleasure in a multitude of ways, I feel it too. You both do enjoy yourselves quite often enough to satiate me. Oh wait¡­ maybe you are like that because of me?"


    Sheng Shui hummed curling his finger under his chin as he tilted his head. Ying Yue glanced at him and wondered if that was true as well.


    "I think¡­ you''ve just made me more¡­ confident and um¡­ more¡­"


    Sheng Shui laughed and pulled him in for a hug, which Ying Yue joined in grinning.


    "Hey, let me tell you what you should try next."


    He was going to pull away, but the orange eyed man kept him close and whispered. Golden eyes widened and he flushed deeply, red in the face and chest. When he was pulled away, he saw the mischievous grin on the golden blonde.


    "Have fun," Sheng Shui grinned and pushed him.


    He felt as if he fell floating before the darkness slowly bled away for light.


    His golden eyes opened to see the ceiling and his heart wanted to escape his ribcage.


    ''Sheng Shui! You¡­'' his face flushed deeply from what the golden blonde offered, ''Shameless!''

 Chapter 98 - Your Heart Is Only For Him

    Sitting up, Ying Yue cleared his throat and looked over to not see Snow. His heart dropped remembering Wang Li was no longer with him. His husband was far away and he could not return to him because of what he would do to his lover. Letting out a sigh, he got off the bed.


    Both brothers were drinking tea quietly as they waited for the youngest to join them. Sighing into his cup, the brunette looked over at him.


    "Brother, was this the right decision?" Han Mo questioned with furrowed brows.


    "He needed to learn what the Heavens ask of him," Xu Ling stated with closed eyes, "It is time he learned he is to not take his role lightly."


    "Yes, but¡­" the younger let out another sigh, looking into his cup for respite, "You know how his heart is. He cannot help himself."


    "The first time was enough to show him where his weakness was," the redhead stated sternly, "He should learn from that."


    Shaking his head, the brunette drank his tea. His mind went back to when the blonde was a light, a bundle of smiles. Then they got older and his youngest brother seemed¡­ lost. Even after Ying Yue''s death and the birth of Sheng Shui¡­ eyes still yearning, still searching for his lover.


    ["Brother," he remembered his brother, as Sheng Shui spoke up sadly.


    "What is it?" Han Mo looked over to see tears slipping down those green eyes, "Why are you crying?"


    "No matter how many lovers I lay with," the blonde gave him a defeated smile, "It will never be good enough."


    "Pssh," he sounded with a smirk, "Are you losing your touch? Not satisfied anymore?"


    He watched as his brother pulled out a red handkerchief from his sleeve and stared at it. Pressing it against his face, the brunette found the smirk falling off his face when his brother breathed the cloth in.


    "My heart will still be empty until I find him," a soft smile was placed on those red lips.


    "Who?" He whispered softly, scared of the answer, scared to know.


    "I don''t know," blonde hair swayed with the shake, "but I will find him. I know he is near."


    "How do you know it is a guy and not a girl?" He forced out a laugh, gently pushing his brother''s shoulder.


    "My heart is telling me this," he saw his brother''s smile and his heart dropped when he spoke again.


    "Do you know where plum blossoms bloom, brother?"]


    Shaking himself out of his thoughts, Han Mo drank another cup of his tea. It took them both a long time making sure Ying Yue never came close to the palace. They both knew the Ghost King only went to certain areas like a routine. So many times, they found their blonde brother close to the palace, near it, and sometimes standing and staring at the closed doors. Each time, a new excuse was given, a new direction, a new village.


    Until they were too late.


    Ying Yue had become Wang Li''s wife once more.


    ''It was inevitable,'' he thought closing his eyes, ''Like you said once before Ying Yue: no one can escape fate.''


    The door to the young brother''s room opened and they looked over. An entire seven nights had passed since they removed their brother from the palace. The blonde''s gold eyes still held sadness, but there was a hint of acceptance. Sitting down, Ying Yue poured himself a cup and drank it. Frowning slightly, he put the teacup down.


    "Do we have ginger?" He questioned quietly looking at his brothers.


    "No," the redhead stated putting his own cup on the table, "Just drink your tea."


    ''Ginger tea¡­'' he stared at the cup and closed his eyes.


    ["Wang Li," he asked tasting the tea again, "You always serve ginger tea."


    "Do you not like it?" Silver eyes looked at him.


    "I only drink ginger tea when I am with you," he took another sip, "Is it your favorite?"


    "Ah Yue," the man sighed and he continued.


    "I mean¡­ it''s not a bad thing. I like it too. Ginger helps the stomach so... do you have stomachaches?" Ying Yue flustered and stopped himself from talking by drinking more tea.


    "Yes," the man in red nodded as he sipped his tea, "You can ask for something else, Ah Yue."


    He looked worriedly at the king before looking down. He shouldn''t have said anything¡­ he had quite a big mouth. Letting out a sigh, he drank the tea in his cup. Then his smile slowly curled on his lips as he looked at the man.


    "I have stomachaches too," he saw silver eyes looked at him with furrowed brows.


    "What is wrong?" The man reached out and touched his stomach, making him flush from the contact.


    "You¡­ you make my stomach feel weird," he murmured quietly and he saw confusion in those pretty eyes.


    Ying Yue smiled mirthfully and kissed the king. Pulling back, he sighed and watched surprise colored the beauty before him.


    "Much better," he grinned only to be tackled down, laughing as he went until thin lips swallowed the noise.]


    That was a nice time, a time when they were young and during their courtship. Those days were a long time ago, too long maybe¡­ too long that he could not reach back and relive it.


    "Are you feeling better, Ah Yue?" Han Mo questioned searching his face.


    He offered a smile and nodded.


    "You know what you must do, Heaven''s chosen," the Xu Ling crossed his arms.


    "Tell me big brother," he looked at the elder, "How do I bring balance? I tried on my own and failed. I¡­ What was master planning for me?"


    "Master wanted you to travel, find out what the villages need and assist them in all the ways you can," mouth turned into a deep frown, "but you chose to forfeit your duties and stayed with him."


    Silence fell onto the brothers as the sound of the light wind rattled the windows.


    "Forgive me, brothers. I have been selfish, but I do not regret being with him."


    "We know, Ah Yue. Your heart was only for him," his kind brother smiled and patted his shoulder.


    "Was there¡­ Was there anything I don''t know?"


    "When you first showed, master was concerned," the redhead stated, "Your mark was incomplete."


    "What?" He touched his mark on his forehead, "What do you mean? Why did he not tell me?"


    "When master returned from the mountains," Xu Ling continued, "He said the Heavens made a mistake and did not inform him."


    "I have never seen master so angry before," the brunette thought back with worry.


    "By the time he returned, you already ran off to live in the palace," the redhead narrowed his eyes and Ying Yue shrunk a bit from that statement. It was true¡­ he did leave while his master was away.


    "That was why you all came," the blonde said softly, "Not for my wedding..."


    "Well, it worked out. We went there to speak with you, but was also there to give you our blessings!" Han Mo grinned, lightening the mood.


    "You did not return with us," his older brother continued, "Master knew the Ghost King would become the name of your lover and what you would have to do."


    "Kill Ah Li," he whispered, "So what he was telling me when I was young¡­ they were all true until he learned the Heavens were dishonest with him."


    "Yes," the redhead stared him straight in the eye, "Wang Li was the first chosen, but his heart was too pure to control the Netherworld. To complete the balance, you were chosen. Marks of Heaven''s chosen were split for both you and the Ghost King. Everything was planned from the beginning: you were placed in the master''s hands, taught to bring goodness and love; the Ghost King was placed in the hands of a woman, known for secrecy and pain."


    His brother paused and took a sip of his tea.


    "But that woman died early in the Ghost King''s life, so the woman''s sister raised him; she was loyal and stable. This did not fall in the plans of Heavens-" the redhead looked over at the youngest of them.


    "They placed a curse on us," Ying Yue finished, hands clenching his knees, "I know. Thank you, Xu Ling."


    He got up and headed out of the door to greet Snow. The big cat was looking over the hill down where the village was. Rubbing the pet, he felt the chilly air a little less than before, and the snow that had fallen were melted long ago.


    ''Ah Li,'' he smiled softly, ''I wonder what you are doing?''


    A white butterfly flew toward him and his golden eyes widened. The trail of glittering dust followed it and the gold outline shimmered. It landed quietly on his shoulder and he found his heart beating quickly. Did his husband¡­


    "Ah Yue," that baritone voice sounded like a whisper and he felt tears welling up in his eyes, "Do not cry."

 Chapter 99 - So Many Of Me

    Ying Yue let out a laugh wiping his stray tears.


    "How do you know I am crying?" He questioned softly, but the butterfly only carried a one-way message.


    "It is going to take me a little bit longer until I can return to you," Wang Li said quietly.


    "It is alright, I will wait for you, Ah Li," he closed his eyes and smiled.


    "I love you," his husband finished and Ying Yue found he felt so much better. His heart wasn''t too heavy as before.


    Whispering his replies and statement to the butterfly, he added a bit of his energy to quicken its speed. Watching it fly off, he absentmindedly pet Snow who also seemed happier hearing his master''s voice. He turned to the sounds of footsteps and smiled.


    "I think I will travel, brothers," Ying Yue looked down at Snow, "Will you join me?"


    "You are ready then," the redhead eyed the blonde, "Then let us pack."


    ''Ah Li,'' he smiled glancing at the village from below, ''Come find me.''


    ==


    A man in red stood staring at the moon in the quiet of the night. Closing his silver eyes, he still saw the moon making him smile. His wife, his Ying Yue¡­


    "How do you know I am crying?" He heard the blonde laugh through the butterfly, "I miss you. I¡­ Ah Li¡­ I will be traveling. When you are ready, come find me. I will be waiting," he heard a pause, "I love you."


    "Ah Yue," he whispered under the stars, "Soon I would hold you again, with no pain¡­ no curse."


    Letting out a sigh, he turned and headed through the barrier.


    ==


    Ying Yue did not realize what an issue it would be with Snow travelling with them. The animal was gathering attention and not good ones.


    "Ah! That¡­ that beast!" Some villagers had cried out pointing at the leopard, "Heaven''s Conduit! Have you tamed the Ghost King''s pet?!"


    After five people had stopped them, all three of them stared at the animal. Big blue eyes stared at him with tilted head.


    "We should have left him," Xu Ling huffed out.


    "No," the blonde shook his head, "We just got to figure out something."


    "But what? He is so huge," the brunette sighed scratching his head, "Not like we can..."


    Golden eyes widened as he placed his bag onto the ground. Ying Yue watched his brother rummage through the bag he carried, while he ran his fingers through the big cat. A confused sound left Snow, as if asking what they were all doing. He nuzzled his forehead on his pet and laughed when the big cat licked him.


    "Found it!" Han Mo called out holding a wooden container, "Alright! I never really had to use it before," he grinned.


    "What is it, brother?" Ying Yue questioned staring at the round pink bead in between his brother''s fingers.


    "Shrinking pill," the brunette said proudly, "I forgot I had this. Didn''t need to use it since¡­" he stopped himself and waved it off with a laugh, "Snow can eat it and be small, like a baby kitten again."


    Eyes brightening, the blonde''s face was full of excitement. Snow as a baby again?! That would be amazing because Snow as a baby had always been adorable, the best moments in his life when he really thought about it.


    ["Snow," he giggled as the kitten licked his face, "Enough kisses already."


    "Snow," Wang Li spoke up and the cat stopped to look at the man in red, "Come."


    Small paws bounced over to the man and nuzzled against the warm chest.


    "How come he listens to you and not me?" The blonde stuck his bottom lip out as he watched the two share a moment.


    Nose to nose and nuzzling against one another, Ying Yue couldn''t help the smile spreading across his face.


    "He loves you, Ah Yue," the king said, "Let him show his affection."


    "I know," he grinned with a laugh, "Sometimes it''s too many kisses."


    "Hm," Wang Li thought watching him and placed Snow onto the ground.


    He saw his lover lean in and he smiled closing his eyes. The raven-haired beauty pulled back only to peck his lips over and over again. He tried to deepen the kiss, but the man in red kept pecking his lips like a bird eating crumbs.


    "Ah Li," he whined softly and stared upset at the king.


    "Is it too many kisses," Wang Li questioned with a smirk.


    "More," he whispered, but the king pulled back. Brows furrowed, he suddenly felt the wet licks of the kitten on his face. Flabbergasted, he pulled back and although he wanted to be upset¡­ the laughter from his lover¡­


    "Every kiss from Snow, 3 good kisses from Wang Li?" He hoped with bright eyes.


    "Mm," the raven-haired male pulled the kitten back and kissed him, deep and so, so good, "I will do more than kiss, Ah Yue."


    Face flushing, he laughed wrapping his arm around both his lover and their pet. This was perfect, wasn''t it?]


    "Here," Han Mo handed him the pink pill, "You feed him. He won''t eat you."


    "Big brother," the blonde laughed, "Snow won''t hurt you."


    The light growl from the big cat made the brunette lift a brow at him, as if to say, ''See?''


    Shaking his head, Ying Yue looked at his pet. Offering the pill, the leopard sniffed it before licking it into his mouth. Nothing happened for a moment, but then a poof of pink dust appeared leaving only a kitten. Snow was younger than when he found the kitty but was just as cute with big blue eyes. Picking the cub up, the blonde couldn''t help but coo as it.


    "So cute!" He held the kitten out to his brothers to see.


    A baby growl that sounded more squeaky than deep, sounded out from tiny lips. The brunette laughed aloud and even the redhead quirked his lips.


    "Awe, he''s cute like this," Han Mo reached out, but those baby paws swiped at him, "Still scary, but adorable looking."


    "Come, let us continue," Xu Ling spoke up and headed to the streets once more.


    "Oi, wait for me!" The brunette shouted packing his bags once more.


    "Ah Mo," Ying Yue spoke up listening to the soft purrs from Snow, "How long will he stay this way?"


    "Oh, um¡­" his brother stood up, threw the bag over his shoulder, and looked at him nervously, "To be honest¡­ I don''t know for sure."


    Golden eyes widened.


    "What do you mean? Snow could be a kitten forever?" The blonde stared at his pet and felt himself worry.


    "Don''t think too much on it, little brother," the brunette cupped his shoulder, "He will return to normal. Now, let us go before big brother leaves us!"


    They made it to the village in the west with no interruptions.


    "There are so many¡­" Ying Yue found himself sweat dropping seeing the¡­ everything looked¡­


    "Go on, finish your sentence," the brunette grinned, "So many¡­?"


    "Me¡­" he whispered as his eyes scanned around him. Posters of his face, banners with his title, and even meals named after him. This village was obsessed with him.


    "Heaven''s Chosen," every single villager, even the children, would bow low to him.


    ''This is¡­ weird. I didn''t know the West worshipped me. Why would they? Was it not those in Heaven they worshipped?'' He looked at his brothers who just looked at him with a smirk. Swallowing down his nerves, he smiled at them.


    "Hello, my brothers and I are here to listen to any fears you may have," he said kindly.


    No one said a word nor did they lift their heads from the ground. It unnerved him as he looked helplessly at the villagers. Footsteps sounded and he looked to see the Sect Leader of the West arriving with his entourage.


    ''From the History book, the West were strong worshippers, but they never mentioned all this! This must be Sect Leader...'' Ying Yue watched as the Sect Leader stopped to look at him. Dressed in light green, a fan in his hand, and hair high in a bun, the leader of this sector stared at him. Big brown eyes crinkled at the end as a smile stretched across the young face.


    "Heaven''s Chosen finally blessed us with his presence," the young man bowed and the other followed suit, "What honor it is."


    "The honor is mine," he smiled back and bowed, "Sect Leader Jiang."


    "Oh no," the leader laughed, "That was my uncle. I am Sect Leader Yang."


    "My apologies," he bowed.


    "Do not worry yourself, Heaven''s Conduit," the young brown-haired boy grinned, "Although my uncle had wanted to witness you for years, you are finally here. Our answers have finally been fulfilled!"


    "I am sorry I did not come sooner," he offered an apologetic smile, "Forgive me."


    "All is forgiven, Chosen One," Sect Leader Yang waved with his fan, "Come, let us greet you to our sector properly."


    Ying Yue followed, along with his brothers, through the streets. The housing was small compared to the richness of the temples. Each one was lighted, cleaned, and had offerings in them¡­ for him.


    "Sect Leader Yang," he spoke up, "Are there any worries in your sector? Anything that we can do to assist you?"


    The young leader laughed against his fan, sending a mirthful look at him.


    "Well," the brunette sounded as they were at the start of a long set of stairs, "You could take off your clothes."

 Chapter 100 - I Will Reveal Myself

    Did he hear the sect leader right? The young man wanted him to get naked¡­ for what purpose?


    "Why?" The blonde tried to keep his smile on.


    "As you can see in the village, you are highly worshipped here. I believe the other sectors only have one temple and barely use it. We''ve always wanted to see your body, so that the statues are accurate," the young man said behind the fan, hiding a grin.


    ''First, Sect Leader Fang in the East¡­ now Sect Leader Yang from the West¡­ why do they want to see him naked!'' He felt his cheeks reddened.


    "Sect Leader Yang," his oldest brother spoke up, "It is getting late. We shall go rest."


    "Oh alright," the young leader sighed, "Come, we have places for you. Tomorrow we shall celebrate."


    Ying Yue let out a breath and thanked his brother. He glanced behind him at his bag, making sure Snow was okay.


    ''Wang Li, I prefer to just be in the palace with you. Things are so strange here.''


    ==


    The Ghost King stared at the demon. He sighed inwardly and focused on the amulet. Hand hovered over the item as he bled his power into it. Sweat built up on his face and he pulled his hand away. Gripping the edge of the platform, he could hear his ragged breathing. Panting out, he pulled away wiping his sweat with his sleeves.


    Walking over to Ye Wu, he sat down at the other end of the checkerboard.


    This was familiar and it brought a small smile to his face.


    ''It had been a long time since I''ve played.''


    He reached for a white pebble and placed it forward on the board. The demon moved a black piece. This continued for a few more moves before Ye Wu spoke up.


    "Why are you still here?"


    Wang Li glanced up and saw crimson eyes on him.


    "Do you wish for me to leave?"


    "¡­"


    "Forgive me, Ah Wu."


    Ye Wu searched his face before moving another piece. They continued playing and Wang Li found his lips curling. He could see a way to win and he leaned forward.


    "Oh no, you won''t win this time, Ah Li," the demon frowned and leaned closer to the board.


    A move. Another.


    "Dammit," Ye Wu sighed, "I taught you too well."


    Wang Li grinned and opened his mouth, but blood wretched up his throat. Coughing, he spit red liquid over the checkerboard. He felt cold hands pulling him to sit up and a cloth covering his lips. He felt dizzy and found himself laying on the demon''s shoulder when he came to.


    "You better tell me now, what the hell you are doing. Don''t you lie to me, Wang Li!"


    He sat up blinking blearily at Ye Wu and rubbed his eyes.


    "I found a way to be with him, Ah Wu."


    "What is it? Is that why you look like you belong here?"


    He saw the deep frown and narrowed red eyes at him, but the creased forehead explained the demon''s feelings. Wang Li smiled and he looked over at the cleaned checkerboard.


    "Will you help me, Ah Wu? One last time."


    "Ah Li, what is going through that mind of yours?"


    Wang Li let out a small laugh and he moved a white piece.


    "How did Ying Yue''s master''s fan end up in your hands, Ah Wu?"


    The demon glanced down at his hand and saw that he was indeed holding the intricate fan decorated with mountains. He hummed and closed the fan, sending a smirk to the Ghost King.


    "Do not distract me, little Ah Li," the demon placed an elbow on the checkerboard and leaned forward, "What do you want from me?"


    Wang Li smiled softly and sat straight from where he was.


    "Become the Ghost King."


    ==


    Ying Yue had to admit, Sect Leader Yang knew how to create a celebration. There were female dancers swaying and moving with the music. He watched interested and captivated, not wanting to eat for fear of missing any movement. When the music was over and the dancers stopped, he stood up clapping. The females bowed, gushing from pleasing Heaven''s Chosen and the musicians did the same.


    "Heaven''s Chosen," Sect Leader Yang smiled at the blonde, "You are pleased! I am happy."


    "Everything is beautiful," Ying Yue grinned, "You really know how to throw a celebration, Sect Leader Yang."


    The young sect leader in green grinned and it reminded him of another sect leader from many moons ago.


    ''Was it possible that he was reincarnated to this time?'' He found his smile softened, ''Ah Li would love you, Sect Leader Yang, just like Sect Leader Po.''


    "Sect Leader Yang, this celebration is grand. However, there is much to discuss."


    He turned to the redhead and tilted his head in wonder of what his brother meant. The young leader blew out his sigh and nodded. He took them to a room behind the celebration and Ying Yue was happy for that. He could hear the lovely music come through the walls.


    "What have you heard?" Sect Leader Yang questioned settling down with his chancellor standing beside him.


    "Though you have many shrines dedicated to my brother, there have been some shrines created for the Ghost King on the outskirts of the village."


    "Ah, yes," the young man rubbed his temple, "Recently, there had been demons occupying the shrines. We asked that you help clear the demons and get rid of it."


    "No," Ying Yue spoke up and brown eyes widened, "Shrines for Ah¡­ for the Ghost King is needed to bring balance within the realms."


    "But! But my sector is dedicated to you, Chosen One, not the Ghost King."


    He could tell by the pout and crossed arms of Sect Leader Yang that he would have a hard time swaying the young man. Coming up with an idea, he cleared his throat and sat taller.


    "We will rid the demons for you, Sect Leader Yang. If you¡­ If you keep the temples for the Ghost King, then I¡­ I will reveal myself."


    "You can''t be serious," Han Mo said incredulously, "You are willing to-"


    "Agreed."


    Sect Leader Yang laughed and looked over to his chancellor. They pulled out a scroll and handed it to him. Ying Yue rolled it out and looked through it with his brothers. There were circles in certain areas, signifying where the temples were. Smiling, Ying Yue felt better knowing there were temples for his husband. Rubbing his wedding band, he watched his eldest brother roll the scroll back.


    "We will get to it, Sect Leader Yang."


    "I thank you, Heaven''s Chosen and cultivators."


    Heading to the closest circle, Ying Yue stared at the make-shift temple. It looked like a small shack that was abandoned. The sound of movements caught their ears, and they perked up. Swords in hands, his eldest brother swung the panel to the side and entered quickly. Ying Yue followed and blinked at the demon.


    ''A¡­ child?'' He questioned, but the child had one eye with curly pink hair. The brothers stood staring into the big black eye of the young child. The skin was pale whiteness and hands were gripping a spoon.


    They all blinked.


    "Did you¡­ make this?" Ying Yue questioned and before the demon could reply, Snow had jumped out of the pouch. Big blue eyes looked at the baby and he growled. The child growled back and it kept getting louder as they spoke back to the other.


    Then, the growling suddenly stopped and big black eye widened. A grin from pale lips spread as a lone tooth was seen. Snow hopped and circled the child before accepting the hug. The adults blinked confused.


    "Snow?" Ying Yue bent down to their eye level, "Is this a friend?"


    The leopard meowed and nudged against the child.


    "Papa," the child clapped and laughed, before wrapping small arms around the pet again.


    "Papa? Ah Yue¡­ Did he¡­ did Wang Li have a child with someone?" The brunette questioned with furrowed brows.


    The child pointed to the redhead who''s golden eyes widened.


    "Papa."


    "¡­"


    "¡­ big brother¡­"


    "That is not my child."


    As if understanding what they were saying, the child cried and Snow tried to calm the baby. Ying Yue picked the child up and noticed the small fluffy tail. The child reached for his brother and he turned to the eldest, to see a scowl and disgust on the man''s face.


    "What should we do?" He questioned rubbing the baby''s back.


    "Send him back," the redhead stated.


    "But it''s just a child."


    "What of it?"


    "It won''t have anyone caring for it. We should-"


    "No."


    "But-"


    "No!"


    The shout only made the child cry harder, still reaching for the eldest in the room. Ying Yue glanced at his middle brother who looked on intrigued and confused.


    A new presence entered the vicinity and they turned to the entrance. A hooded female entered and went straight to the child. As she neared, Ying Yue could see the similarities to the baby in his arms. The child was picked up by the female and small hands reached to pull the hood off the newcomer.


    Long pink hair slipped out of the hood. Two black eyes on a pale face looked at the child. The baby calmed, cooing against her, and Ying Yue found himself smiling.


    "What is its name?"


    Black eyes glanced over his shoulder to his eldest brother before returning to him.


    "He does not have one."

 Chapter 101 - Man With A Demon Mask

    Slender fingers touched the child''s face lovingly and a small smile was on the female''s lips.


    "What is your name, milady?" Ying Yue tried again and those coal eyes narrowed slightly at him.


    "Why are you in the temple for the Ghost King, Cultivators?"


    "We were asked to check the temples and-"


    "Destroy it."


    "No," Ying Yue shook his head with a smile, "I asked that it stays up."


    She searched his face, but he had nothing to hide.


    "Why are you not in the Netherworld, miss?"


    Snow was pawing at her legs and she looked down with widen eyes. She glanced at the three men once more and tilted her head.


    "Did the Ghost King send you?"


    Ying Yue did not reply. He wondered if the female demon was in good standing with Wang Li or not. He looked down at Snow and let out a soft laugh.


    "Snow, do not beg."


    "Meow."


    "When you return, give him my thanks," the female kissed her child''s forehead, "We will not be here long, but it is nice to have a place to stay."


    Ying Yue nodded and was about to bow to leave, but the child cried out, "Papa."


    The silence in the small temple enveloped them and he watched as the female turned away with the child.


    "Child, stop saying that."


    "Papa?" Big black eye aimed at the redhead and Xu Ling thinned his lips. Glancing at the female who had her back to him, he swallowed deeply.


    ''Could this be her?''


    "Lady Nuying," he whispered and the female tensed her shoulders, "I thought you had returned."


    "How can I return, when I have the child of Heavens?"


    Ying Yue found his eyes widened and he turned to Xu Ling. The redhead held a deep frown and yet his eyes were staring at the child, still trying to reach for him. The blonde found his heart pounding and a smile slowly spread across his lips.


    "He knew¡­ the Ghost King knew of what you carried. Having you here would give you a chance to live peacefully, am I right?"


    "You truly are Heaven''s Chosen. I am glad he warned me ahead of time," the female mumbled, "Or I would have tried to kill you."


    "He¡­ he knew?" Ying Yue questioned and his heart beat quicker. Did that mean Wang Li was-


    "I am not a threat, cultivators. I have the blessings of the Ghost King. The others, I am not so sure."


    "Thank you, Lady Nuying," the brunette smiled and went to pat the child''s curly pink hair, "Next time I visit, I shall spoil you like an uncle should."


    "You do not-"


    "Come, big brother, go say your goodbyes for now. Ah Yue and I will be outside."


    Ying Yue laughed as he followed his brother.


    The redhead stared at the child and female. He fisted his hands and stepped forward slowly. She had told him she could not conceive. She told him she was leaving, returning to the realm below. She never told him she was carrying his child.


    "Why did you not come find me? You know where I am."


    "Heh, would you really wish for this?" She questioned turning to him, "For a child like this?"


    "¡­"


    "Exactly. I did not know I was pregnant until I met with the Ghost King. He was the one who knew and kept me in the palace. He dotted me, cared for me, and when my child came, he cleaned it for me. He knew who fathered my child, Zhang Xu Ling, he knew it was you."


    "How could he know unless you told him?"


    "He said your brothers loves men, not woman."


    "¡­"


    "He offered for me to stay longer, but I could not take more of his generosity. I refused to see you even when he insisted. This is a temporary home for us. You do not need to see us any longer."


    "Stop," he wrapped his large palm on small shoulder, "I am sorry. I am not the best of men, but I am not a terrible one either."


    He stared into those black eyes that captivated him so many years ago.


    [He was on a mission alone because his brother stated he was helping the white haired boy. He completed his assignment and had just left his clients. Walking out of the compound, he saw a silhouette of a female. Mouth thinning, he continued on his way but he heard an "ouch" that caught his attention. Was the female in trouble?


    He followed the sound and came to a clearing where the flowers did not shined, but the female seemed to glow. Finger on lips, he watched as the pink haired female sighed and turned. His breath caught in his throat when he saw the beauty before him. Black eyes looked at his golden ones and he clenched his jaws. He knew what she was. He could sense it, but¡­


    His eyes travelled down her body where pale legs were seen. Quickly catching himself, he turned away and pretended to look around the area.


    "Cultivator," her voice was soft and comforting, "Thank you for helping them."


    "It is my duty," he stepped forward, "You should return."


    "Are you going to send me back?" She looked sadly at him, "I have done nothing wrong. Only that I am a terrible seamstress."


    She smiled and he took steps closer. Looking at the fabric, he couldn''t help but frown deeper from the hand stitching the female was doing.


    "You work for them?"


    "Yes. I like the living world. There are beautiful people and the smell is not pungent of death."


    He did not reply and he took the fabric and needle from the female. Making a few stitches, he handed it back to the pink-haired lady. Black eyes blinked in surprise before a smile, a smile he would remember forever, was aimed at him.


    "Will you teach me?"


    He hesitated, but a cool hand touched his wrist and he found himself nodding.


    Under the moonlight, he taught the pale demon needlework. As the moon moved, he found himself holding the demon''s hand as she pushed the needle in and out. He was pressed close to smell lavender and jasmine from the female. The needlework was finished, but he continued to hold her hand and she didn''t pull away. Her head tilt toward him and they leaned toward one another.]


    Now, in front of him was the female, the one with the smile he still remembered. The demon who had his child¡­ their child.


    "Papa."


    Small pale arms reached for him.


    He reached back.


    ==


    Lady Nuying was right. The other demons that resided in the other temples were not supposed to be there. It took them three days to finally come to the last temple left on the map. The area was isolated off to the edge of the sector.


    This temple was even worse than the others. Broken planks leaned against one another and a roof just thrown haphazardly on top.


    There was no door to the temple and they stared in confusion. It looked more like a shack then a temple. There were no demons, so why was this spot circled. Footsteps were heard and they turned to see a man with a demon mask walking toward them with a wood in hand. The man was in a dirty red tunic and black hair pulled into a ponytail.


    "Hello, are you living here?"


    Ying Yue asked and the man did not reply, only tilted his head to the side.


    "Did you build this for the Ghost King?" The blonde tried again, but the man only stared with his mask on.


    "They probably thought he''s a demon," Han Mo shook his head and he sighed, "Sorry to bother you, stranger. Carry on."


    The man bowed and went to place the wood under the falling roof. Ying Yue stared at the man and watched him arranged the woods. Stepping up, he offered his help and held up a side wood. The man behind the mask stared at him for a moment and nodded. His brothers assisted the man as well and now, the temple looked sturdier.


    "This looks better," Ying Yue smiled looking at the small shack.


    He felt gloved fingers move along his shoulder and he stared wide eyes at the man. His shock quickly left him when he realized what the movement of fingers were doing.


    "You cannot speak," he breathed out and the fingers moved.


    ''Thank you.''


    "You are welcome, sir."


    ''Why. You. Brothers. Help. For. Ghost. King.''


    "We helped because we wish to. This is for the Ghost King and I spoke with Sect Leader Yang. He will not destroy them."


    The fingers hovered for a moment before it moved.


    ''Why.''


    "The Ghost King should be worshipped to."


    ''Thank you.''


    He smiled widely at the man and nodded.


    "We will be on our way, please take care of yourself, sir."


    The man nodded and bowed to them. Ying Yue sighed happily as they finished what was needed for the West Sector. Now onto the North-


    "What are you so happy about, Ah Yue. Did you not forget what you promised?"


    The blood on his face dropped and he flushed embarrassed.


    He felt so¡­

 Chapter 102 - A Redhead, A Blonde, And A Brunette

    ''This¡­ this was for Ah Li¡­ this was for Ah Li,'' he said like a mantra in his mind as they entered the village, to the where the sect leader was, and following the giggling man to a stage where the villagers all crowded to watch.


    He reminded himself this was for his lover as his clothes pooled at his feet. Flushing with embarrassment, he fought to not cover himself or else he would be naked longer. Thankfully, his brothers dressed him just as quickly, earning disgruntlement from the crowd.


    "That was too quick," Sect Leader Yang frowned.


    "He agreed to bare himself, he never stated how long," the redhead stated and narrowed his eyes at the leader.


    "I suppose¡­" the brown haired youth brightened instantly, "Ah! Good thing our painter is here. He has excellent memory. We will create the correct proportions on your statue now, Chosen One."


    Ying Yue''s face reddened as he nodded looking out into the crowd. His eyes caught the man with the demon mask and he smiled, waving to the crowd. He saw the man looked down and held up a paper that cause his entire body to flush deeply.


    Biting his lips as he looked down, he shimmed to hide behind his brothers. Peeking from behind, his golden eyes still saw the word like it was the only thing he saw.


    ''Beautiful.''


    ==


    Ying Yue held the pouch before him and played with Snow. The cute little head peeking out as he gave kisses to the blonde. Laughing, he pat the leopard and smiled.


    "Do you miss being big, Snow?"


    The cat only meowed at him and he laughed nuzzling his head. Sighing, he pulled away and looked over to see they have arrived at the North sector. Walking through the villages to get to the sect leader, he heard a female calling out to them.


    "Cultivators, Heaven''s Chosen, please, will you not stay at my inn?"


    The female smiled in her offer and he noted the bruise showing at the edge of her collar.


    "Your sect leader offered his palace to stay in. I apologize miss."


    "Oh¡­"


    The female looked defeated and he felt bad but¡ª


    "Meow."


    "Shh," Ying Yue whispered and the female stared at him.


    "You have a pet, Heaven''s Chosen? Sect Leader Bo would not approve. He detests animals, but we accept all pets," the female stated pointing to her inn.


    He turned to his brothers who looked at him and then at the small cat. Snow blinked at them innocently and he sighed. Nodding his head, the female brightened and lead them to the inn. It was an average looking place, but the female could not help beaming. He saw a young girl and an even younger boy turn the corner.


    "These are my children," the lady introduced, "Go make sure the rooms are ready for our special guests."


    They children bowed and smiled as they ran up the steps.


    "We can watch your pet for you until you return, Heaven''s Chosen," the female offered, "My children love animals. They will care for your pet well."


    "Well, I''d like to see it for myself before I leave him here. Snow can be picky with who he likes."


    "Of course! Let me show you to your rooms."


    They followed the female and saw the children making the bed and dusting. He looked over at the children and smiled. Picking Snow out of his pouch, both the girl and boy rushed over to him to see the kitten. The smile on their faces and bright eyes did something to his heart.


    The wonder of youth¡­ he remembered those days.


    "May we pet it?" The girl, older than the boy, asked politely.


    "He would like that," Ying Yue smiled and watched as hesitant hands rubbed soft fur.


    Snow sniffed their hands and seemed fine with them, so Ying Yue placed him down.


    "Take good care of him for me, until I return, okay?"


    "Really?"


    "We will take good care of him!"


    Ying Yue laughed and sent a nod to the mother. They headed out of the inn and made it to the large palace. He frowned noting how large the place looked. Wang Li''s place did not look this large and extravagant.


    They were led into the space and brought to the grand hall. The people there smiled and bowed to them as they entered, but the man on the throne with his wife did not.


    Wrapped in purple, the man seemed to weigh his green eyes heavily at them.


    "It is an honor to meet you, Sect Leader Bo and Madame."


    "Madame Nima, you look beautiful as always," Han Mo greeted and the female gushed slightly with a giggle.


    "Watch your tongue, cultivator," the leader stated with narrowed eyes.


    "Ah, I need my tongue, Sect Leader Bo. They do quite a lot of good," Han Mo winked and Ying Yue reddened in embarrassment. He turned and made a shushing sound to his brother.


    "Thank you for welcoming us to your sector. Heaven''s Conduit is here before you. What do you wish of him?" The redhead spoke up and the room fell silent, waiting for their leader to speak up.


    "Nothing. We do not need anything from him or either of you."


    Ying Yue inwardly sighed and was happy with what was said. This meant one less sector to go through, so-


    "You captured demons and are using them for your weapons."


    His eyes widened and he turned to his brother. Was what the redhead said true? Was Sect Leader Bo doing such a thing?!


    "And? Isn''t that a good thing? No one will care."


    "I do," Ying Yue spoke up stepping forward, "Please release them."


    "What for?! They had destroyed homes and killed my people. They deserve this punishment!"


    "They should be sent back to the Netherworld, Sect Leader Bo. I understand that-"


    "No! You understand nothing!"


    The leader stood sharply and walked down the steps loudly as he growled. Ying Yue could tell the man was not wanting to release the captured demons, but it was only right for them to return to where they belong. Holding himself firm as the leader stopped before him, he prepared himself for an argument.


    "They killed children, mothers, and made my sector deplete of many resources. They do not deserve death, they deserve torture."


    ''This man is¡­ I understand his anger, but to disgrace another kind like this. Is it not wrong?''


    "I am sorry for not coming when it occurred. I mourn your losses, Sect Leader Bo," the blonde stood straight as he spoke, "You know what my purpose is and in order to bring balance, the demons must return."


    The Sect Leader fisted his hands and clenched his jaw. Ying Yue inwardly sighed.


    "A battle, Sect Leader Bo. If I win, the demons return."


    "A battle?" The leader''s lips curved and a laugh escaped his lips, "You wish to battle me for the freedoms of those monsters?"


    "You or anyone you assign, Sect Leader Bo. Do you agree?"


    "You sure are a stupid one, Heaven''s Chosen," the man grinned and eyes narrowed, "I accept your offer. We shall duel in 2 moons time. You may stay here if you wish."


    "Thank you for accepting, Sect Leader Bo. I must decline your offer to stay. My brothers and I have a place in the village."


    "Very well."


    They said their goodbyes and were walking back to the inn.


    "Sect Leader Bo had been the best ranked warrior for years. Are you certain you are prepared for battle with him?"


    "Ah Ling," he turned to the redhead as they continued to walk, "I had to do something. From what you told me on our journey here, being the sector of warriors, I assumed they would not turn down a challenge. I am happy I was right, but being prepared¡­ I may need to spar with you to see."


    "Very well. Well done, little brother."


    Ying Yue grinned and brightened.


    Xu Ling had not called him brother in a long time, and to hear the proud tone from the redhead made him warm inside. When they neared the inn, they could hear yelling and screaming inside.


    "Give that cat to me or I will kill your mother!" A man yelled holding the owner''s throat.


    The children were holding Snow, but their eyes were wide with tears as they watched the scene before them. The kitten was growling and wiggled out of the boy''s arms. Running toward the intruder with short legs, growling as intensely as a little kitten could, the man laughed and threw the female to the side.


    "See! Even the cat wants to come with me," the man picked Snow up by the back of the neck, dangling the cat before him, "You are going to make me so much money."


    The paw swiped at his face and claws he didn''t see scratched him. Screaming out, he growled shaking the kitten.


    "You little piece of shit!"


    "Please do not call my pet that."


    The man turned around angrily to see a redhead, a blonde, and a brunette.

 Chapter 103 - Never Regret My Marriage

    "It''s not yours anymore. This kitty cat is mine now!"


    "Drop the cat," the redhead glared at him, but he was not swayed by it.


    "I will do what I wa-"


    A bang against the back of his head, led to him unconscious. Ying Yue smiled apologetically, though the man could not even see it. Snow decided to climb over the man and growled, but he picked the kitten up. He glanced at the female owner who was breathing hard with a pan in her hand. The children ran to their mother and hugged her tightly.


    "I apologize, miss," Ying Yue bowed, but the female shook her head watching the redhead throw the man out of the inn.


    "No, it isn''t your fault, Chosen One. This man constantly comes in here trying to take money we''ve earned."


    His golden eyes searched her face and knew from the quiver of her lips that there were more that the man took. The children bowed to him apologizing for not caring to Snow as well as they should. Waving it away, he smiled at them.


    "Do not worry. Snow was trying to protect you all. That meant he cares for you because he likes you."


    Snow meowed in agreement and the mood lightened slightly.


    "Why don''t you all sit at the dining area, I will go cook for us. Are there any specific meals you would like?" The older female questioned and Ying Yue smiled.


    "I''d like fatty beef with plum wined rice¡­" he murmured but quickly laughed, "Only if¡­ only if you have it."


    "Oh¡­ well, I will see if we have any. Please accept my apologies if we do not."


    "I am sure whatever you make, we will enjoy."


    "Mama makes delicious food!"


    "Mmhmm," the girl nodded in agreement.


    "Okay, I shall return soon."


    Ying Yue watched the female leave and they sat with the children staring at them with wide eyes, innocent and curious. Tea was brought to them and the blonde asked for ginger, which was provided. He smiled happily and drank his tea with ginger.


    "Why do you drink ginger tea?" The boy asked.


    "Is it your stomach?" The girl followed.


    He chuckled and took a sip, but he choked on the drink when his brother spoke up.


    "It''s because his lover likes it."


    Coughing into his sleeves, he flushed.


    "Lover? You have a girlfriend?" The girl questioned.


    "A husband," the brunette grinned and Ying Yue sent pleading eyes over to him, as if it would stop his big mouth.


    "You are married? I thought you couldn''t be because¡­ because you need to be pure, one of Heaven," the young girl questioned with a brightness in her eyes.


    "Yeah. Mama said it is an honor to be chosen by the Heavens," the boy added and Ying Yue rubbed his ring on his finger.


    "Your mother¡­ she is right. It is the highest of honor that comes with many sacrifices, but¡­ I will never regret my marriage to him."


    "Wow," the young girl sighed gushing, "He must be waiting for you at home. When I am older, I want to find someone like you. Willing to sacrifice your purpose for love."


    "Yuck! Gross!" The boy sounded and his sister turned to him, "I would follow Heavens order and if it means to not be with anyone, then I won''t. Besides, love is gross."


    The boy stuck out his tongue in disgust and Snow licked the boy''s face, earning a laugh. They drank quietly and answered a few questions. Ying Yue laughed and looked out of the window to see a man in red. His laughter ended shortly and his golden eyes widened.


    ''Ah Li?''


    He excused himself quickly and went out of the inn, looking in the direction of where the man was. A fabric of red slipped behind a wall and he followed with his heart pumping against his chest. Turning the corner, the man was nowhere to be found. Looking around him and up on the roof, the man in red was gone and he was standing alone.


    Exhaling deeply, he dropped his shoulders with a frown. Returning to the inn, he bumped against hard back.


    "Ah, my apologies."


    He glanced up and saw the man from before, wearing red with black hair pulled into a ponytail. The man turned and the demon mask was still covering his face. He felt a finger move against his upper arm and he relaxed.


    ''Alright?''


    "Yes, I am sorry. I thought I saw someone I recognized," he breathed out a smile, "Are you staying here too?"


    The head tilted and he stared at the unresponsive mask. The finger moved and he frowned.


    ''No.''


    "Oh," Ying Yue nodded and he glanced over to the announcement that the meal was ready, "Why don''t you stay for a meal? It is a long way from the West Sector to the North. We¡­ We are having fatty beef."


    ''Fatty beef?''


    "Yes!" He grinned, "It is quite delicious."


    The female headed to them and smiled at the demon masked man.


    "Sir, you have returned. Oh, thank you for bringing these!" The female held up the vegetables up to look at them pleased, "How many golds did these costs? Don''t you dare tell me it is free. I cannot in good conscience have you do this freely for me again."


    Finger moved on his skin.


    "He¡­ he asked that you pay him with your meal to have later."


    "Oh! You could''ve just told me!" The female laughed into her hand and went to prepare a meal for the man in the demon mask.


    "Sir, what is your name?" Ying Yue questioned, wondering about the man and why he was behind a mask. Was the man hiding from someone? Did he needed help?


    ''What is yours?''


    "My name is Ying Yue."


    Fingers paused on his arm before it moved, causing his cheeks to warm.


    ''Fitting.''


    "What do you mean?"


    ''You. Bright. Beautiful.''


    He flushed and he opened his mouth, but the owner returned and handed the demon masked man the meal he asked for. Bowing, he left and Ying Yue''s golden eyes followed the figure out the door.


    ''Ah Li, I think you would like this mysterious guy. He is kind, like you.''


    "It smells delicious, miss," he grinned at her and went to join his brothers and the children.


    He woke up with a yawn and saw Snow rolling on the floor, playing with a lint. Smiling, he stood up and dressed. His brothers were already up and were waiting for him downstairs with the children. Joining them, they discussed how he could train.


    "The only large area in the sector is at the palace¡­ but, there is an area that is not too far from here toward south east," the owner mentioned, "It isn''t as large, but I think it is opened enough for practice."


    "Thank you miss, you''ve been quite helpful," the brunette grinned and they headed to the area with packed meals with them.


    "I worry for them," Ying Yue admitted as they headed to the area.


    "She defended herself today. She will have the courage to do so again," Xu Ling stated and looked over at the brunette who was speaking with a group of women. Shaking his head, he ignored his brother to focus on the youngest.


    "I suppose you are right," the blonde nodded and paused for a moment, "Ah Ling¡­ Lady Nuying and¡­"


    "I will not discuss it."


    "Alright," he nodded and smiled, "She seems nice. I am glad you found someone."


    "She is a demon. Her place is not here."


    Ying Yue''s smile dropped hearing those words from his eldest brother. The redhead had a straight face, but there was a cloudy look in his brother''s eyes, and it made him sad. He looked over to the brunette who caught up to them.


    "Ah Mo," he frowned a little at his brother, "I thought you and Ah Shen¡­"


    The grin on the brown-haired man''s face fell and turned away from him to walk faster ahead.


    ''We brothers are miserable at love,'' he sighed and looked up at the sky, ''It had been sometime, my husband. I miss you.''


    When they reached the area, Ying Yue admitted the place was nice with the flat space and weeds growing. His eldest brother and he positioned themselves a few feet away, facing one another. Ying Yue called for his sword when his brother did and prepared himself.


    A foot slid forward and they were off.


    Swords swung and the clash of blades sounded in the air as the brunette watched taking notes. His golden eyes took in the form of his brothers, the rush of their movements, and the swings of their blades. Bro had to admit the blonde had gotten stronger and quicker in his stay with the Ghost King, but the elder had strength the Heaven''s had gifted.


    As the dust settled, both men stood face to face.


    "You are still so strong, big brother," Ying Yue panted out dropping his arm.


    "Hmm, you''ve gotten better."


    "Thank you."


    "Han Mo, what did you see?"


    "Come here," the brunette waved over as he stayed seated on the grass. They sat with him and took out the meal.


    "Ah Yue, I agree with big brother, you have gotten stronger," he smiled, "¡­ but there are some things I noticed. When Ah Ling swung his sword from above, you jumped back avoiding his blade, but you should attack because he is vulnerable at that moment."


    "Oh, I didn''t realize I do that. When I spar with Ah Li, he doesn''t swing from above. I guess I forgot you do that, big brother," Ying Yue tilted his head as he thought about it.


    "You must be prepared for any move, even those that are not honorable."


    "You mean¡­"


    "Yup, cheating," the brunette nodded as he ate, "You must watch your footing as well, Ah Yue. You move fast, but your footings are not as stable."


    "Ah, really?" Ying Yue frowned and nodded.


    "Don''t worry, we have time after we eat and all of tomorrow," bro smiled, "I will spar with you and help you with your footings and thinking on your feet, little brother."


    "Thinking on my feet?"


    His brown-haired brother laughed into his bowl and he found himself worried at what''s to come. Out of the three of them, the brunette was the more creative one.

 Chapter 104 - Sir Ghost

    When the sun set and they were losing light, Ying Yue was sore and covered in dirt.


    When his brother said he would help him think on his feet, the brunette was not lying. From being tricked to dirt being thrown at his face, he was exhausted. He entered the inn and immediately asked for a bath. The owner nodded and looked at the brothers.


    "We will join later, go enjoy the bath alone. You deserved it," Han Mo laughed and patted his shoulder.


    So following the female to the back of the inn, he was taken to the steaming bath. Smiling and thanking the owner, he undressed and entered the area. What he did not expect was another person in the bath. Scarred bare back faced him and the man was adjusting something before him.


    "Hello," he greeted and wrapped his waist with the towel and stepped into the pool.


    When the man turned back, he found himself grinning.


    "Oh, it is you again!"


    Hair pulled up into a pony and face covered in a mask, Ying Yue moved closer to the man who dunked deeper into the water. Only the man''s head was visible and Ying Yue let out a soft laugh.


    "I thought you returned to your village."


    Fingers wrapped around his hand underwater and he felt his ring being pulled. Quickly pulling his hand to his chest, he frowned at the man. Fingers wrapped around his other wrist and he felt a finger stroke against his palm.


    ''Sorry.''


    "It is alright."


    ''Lover.''


    "Yes."


    ''Happy.''


    "Happy for me or am I happy?"


    ''Both.''


    Ying Yue smiled and held up his hand to look at his ring.


    "I love him. I am happy."


    ''Where.''


    "He is¡­ he is at home."


    ''He. Home.''


    "My husband, yes."


    ''Wait. Forever.''


    "Yes. I will."


    The fingers tightened slightly around his wrist before they slid away. He leaned against the wall and sighed. Soaking in deeper, he closed his eyes and felt a finger on his thigh. Tensing up, he turned to the man and felt the movement.


    ''Miss. Him.''


    "Yes. Everyday," Ying Yue lifted the man''s hand to his shoulder, "Write here, okay?"


    ''Sorry.''


    "It is okay. What is your name?"


    ''Ghost.''


    "Ghost? That is¡­ that isn''t your real name, is it?"


    ''Maybe.''


    Ying Yue smiled and shook his head.


    "So, are you here for something, Sir Ghost?"


    ''Yes. Secret.''


    "Eh, you are mysterious, Sir Ghost. I understand, but please, do not keep the secret alone if other may help."


    He faced the bamboo wall before him and sighed. He felt fingers stroke his skin and he smiled at the mute man.


    ''Okay.''


    He heard his brothers chatting and he moved to the entrance, waddling through the water to greet them.


    "Come in brothers, the water is nice and warm," Ying Yue turned to speak with his mysterious friend, but saw that he was alone. Blinking around confused, he moved to where the man was and saw nothing, like the man was never there.


    "Who are you looking for?" The brunette questioned as he entered the nice bath.


    "What took you two so long?" Ying Yue decided to ask instead of answering.


    "We were just discussing when you fight Sect Leader Bo. Don''t worry, Ah Yue. Your big brothers will take care of you."


    He felt the pat on his head and he laughed feeling warm inside. The sound of a meow caught his ears and he saw Snow bouncing over. Jumping into the water, the little cat patted over to him and Ying Yue laughed even harder.


    "Do you miss me that much?"


    "Meow."


    As they ended their soak in the nice bath, Snow jumped out of the water and shook himself off. The kitten paused and sniffed the air as his ears perked up.


    "Come Snow, let''s go eat."


    The kitten paused for a moment tilting his head, before bounding off to his owner.


    ==


    Today was the day. He was nervous and worried, but his brothers'' confidences settled his mind. After more training and sparring the previous day, he could admit he felt more ready. His body was not as sore thanks to the brunette''s medicine, so he took a deep breath and entered the palace.


    They followed a young servant to the training grounds where warriors were gathered. Their leader stood proud with hands on his hips and a smirk on his face. Ying Yue held his sword at the hilt and walked forward.


    "Sect Leader Bo."


    "Heaven''s Chosen, you truly are a man of your words. Do you still wish to challenge my sector for the freedom of these?"


    Shouts and the clinking of chains were heard nearing them. His golden eyes widened and his hand tightened around his sword. Four demons, one looking like a squid, another like a giant trunk, and the other two looked like lizards. But what surprised him was the bleeding of wounds, so large he could see through it. They limped, scowled, trembled, and whimpered as they neared the area for all to see.


    ''This¡­ this is unbecoming for a sect leader!''


    "How long have you had them?" He whispered.


    "Heh, for many moons. Since capturing them, we have received no other demons. My Sector had never needed help, from you or that wretched Ghost King for many years."


    "Whether your sector needed our assistance, Sect Leader Bo, to torture in this way does not suit leadership."


    "You dare!" The man shouted and reached for his sword, "Let us battle then, tiny one. Then you will know who is the greatest of us."


    Ying Yue felt fire rolling and boiling inside him and he readied his sword.


    Rushing forward, his blade clanged against the leader''s sword. The man''s sharp blue eyes narrowed, and the smirk grew on his face. Sect Leader Bo used his qi and pushed as he dragged the blonde backwards. Ying Yue steadied his footings and twisted away, sliding his blade pass the redhead''s. he could feel the demonic energy rising off the man''s aura and he pursed his lips.


    This sect leader¡­ was unfit to rule, but Ying Yue could not do anything about it.


    ''These demons do not deserve this, even if they had killed. They should return and be dealt with there, not by him,'' he told himself as he blocked a few more swings.


    Noting the pattern Sect Leader Bo was making, Ying Yue strengthened his sword with his spiritual energy and rushed forward. He swung hard and the man stumbled backwards, struggling to stay up. Growling, Sect Leader Bo pushed harder, swung harder, and Ying Yue inwardly smile.


    The man was slowing down.


    The blonde quickly saw the opening as the leader raised his sword and went to swing upward, causing the man''s blade to bounce back up. Twisting, he used the hilt of his blade to stab the man in purple, who stumbled backwards. Ying Yue straightened up and headed to the man holding his chest, scowling at him.


    Before he was able to near, he felt the back of his leg kicked and he fell to his knees. The sharp pain of his knees rushed up his body and he gasped. Before he could stand, he saw a blade heading to him in a slash from left to right. Ying Yue bent backward and used the hilt of his sword to smack against the man''s knee. Sect Leader Bo shouted and stumbled forward, and Ying Yue slid under the man.


    Getting the upper hand, the blonde caught his footing and turned. Unfortunately, he received an arrow into his shoulder. Gasping more from shock, he saw the warriors around him with thier weapons aimed at him.


    "Do you think I would go down so easily?"


    "The challenge was to you, not your army."


    Sect Leader Bo laughed loudly and grinned.


    "You said I or anyone I assigned, well¡­ I choose myself and my warriors."


    Ying Yue frowned and glanced over at his brothers who were readying themselves, but the sect leader shook his head with a tsked.


    "Chosen One, you stated it was you, that will be battling, not with your brothers. If they join, you forfeit."


    "Very well."


    Taking a deep breath and out of his nose, he called for his spiritual energy to envelop him in a barrier. The warriors rushed to him and Ying Yue blocked what he could, but it was hard when he did not want to harm them.


    A stab, a slash, and the sound of metals clanged against one another.


    Breathing hard, he waited for more warriors to enter and he tightened his hands on the hilt of his sword. Some of the warriors were wrapped in a string of his energy and others were unconscious, but he could feel himself tiring.


    There was a loud sound not too far from them and he saw red from his peripheral.


    Red like the robe Wang Li wore.


    His heart leapt at his throat and he glanced over to only see smoke. It filled the area and he could hear the shouts around him. He felt a hand ghosted his back and he gasped.


    "Ah Li?"


    Ying Yue turned and saw empty air, but suddenly a warrior rushed toward him. Hitting the man unconscious, he continued through the smoke and finished off more as his vision cleared. His sword pointed at the sect leader''s throat told the man in purple he had lost.


    "I win, Sect Leader Bo."

 Chapter 105 - Bloodied And Bruised

    "You cheated!"


    "I will return these demons home."


    "You are no Heaven''s Chosen! You dare use smoke to-"


    "Sect Leader Bo, I will advise you to no longer use demons for your will. I can sense the aura within you, but you should know it would cause your life."


    "Don''t you dare speak to me in such ways! I am the leader of this sector. What I say and do goes."


    Ying Yue pulled his sword away and went to the chained demons.


    "I shall return you to the Netherworld. The Ghost King will care for you there."


    They stared at him and he pressed against their head to return them. Turning around, he walked over to his brothers.


    "This is not over, Heaven''s Chosen."


    "It is. If I am to return for any reason, Sect Leader Bo, you will be remove."


    "You cannot do that!"


    "I am to bring balance to this world and you, Sect Leader Bo, have become unfit to lead."


    "It is against what you could do! Don''t think I know that."


    Ying Yue just stared at him and turned to leave. His brothers followed and once they were out of the palace and in the inn, he groaned in pain.


    "You did well," the redhead stated as he wiped the wounds.


    "Yeah, glad we had a backup plan," the brunette nodded as he rubbed ointments on him.


    "Backup?" Ying Yue questioned with his head lolling to the side.


    "Here drink this," his brother poured into his mouth and he swallowed the bitter medicine.


    "The smoke, Ah Yue. That was us."


    "Oh¡­ thank you," he sighed content and paused for a moment, "Was there anyone else besides us and them?"


    "What do you mean?"


    "Was¡­ did you see Ah Li?" He whispered softly and felt the wrapping tighten around his skin.


    "Sorry little brother, the Ghost King was not there."


    He hummed and felt so tired. He heard Snow and felt soft fur rubbed against his face. Smiling, he closed his golden eyes and was taken into the quietness of the dark.


    ["Why do you look at the moon that way?"


    "In what way?"


    "Like¡­ you love her."


    Silver eyes widened and he watched thin lips part before it stretched into a smile. Fingers ran down his cheek and he closed his eyes leaning into the touch. Lips pressed gently against his, like a soft touch of a petal. His eyes opened to see warmness on his lover''s face.


    "The moon had accompanied me through many nights. My love for her is true."


    "Hmm."


    "Are you jealous?"


    "No¡­ yes."


    "My dearest love," Wang Li laughed softly and kissed from lips to ear, "I love you, Ah Yue."


    "And I you, my love."]


    Ying Yue opened his eyes and blinked as the ceiling cleared. He laid there for a moment trying to hold onto the feeling of warmth and love. He sighed softly, but his ears perked up to the sound of footsteps coming to his room. Snow was already awake and growling at the door as he lowered before the blonde. The door slammed opened and he saw two purple clothed men standing before him armed.


    "For threatening Sect Leader Bo, you are to be taken to the cell."


    Ying Yue stood from his bed and the men aimed their weapons at him. He picked up Snow who was reaching out to try and swipe at them. Thinning his lips, he looked at the people in his room.


    "Sect Leader Bo should know it would not be a threat if he were to not capture demons again."


    "You-! You don''t understand! They killed my family! You are not chosen from the Heavens! You pity monsters!"


    "Calm yourself," the other soldier whispered harshly and waved his spear, "Let us go, Chosen One, or we would need to destroy this inn."


    "What?"


    "As Sect Leader Bo stated."


    Ying Yue frowned and clenched his jaws. Their leader would ruin the life of this family and destroy their inn all for pride?! He could not believe it and he had to take deep breaths through his nose. This really was taking everything in him not to be angry. So, walking out of his room and downstairs with the warriors, he saw his brothers and the family surrounded by more warriors.


    Their eyes met and Ying Yue nodded and followed everyone out, leaving his brothers with the family alone at the inn. Snow was still in his arms growling and teeth bared. Walking with his head held high, the blonde returned to the palace before the sect leader.


    "Take him to the cell, you know which one," Sect Leader Bo grinned with narrowed eyes.


    Ying Yue followed with gritted teeth and found himself walking down multiple steps. When he arrived, he passed multiple cells, empty but blood was seen.


    ''This must be where he kept those demons,'' he assumed as the stench of death filled the air.


    A cell at the end was opened and he was pushed in, causing him to stumble forward. He turned and felt a punch to his face. A push had him against the wall and more punches happened. He covered Snow, tucked him in his arms, to not get hurt by the assault. Sliding down the wall, he took the hits and shut his eyes.


    When they were done, they left him alone in the locked cell bloodied and bruised. He groaned as he leaned back against the wall. Opening his arms, big blue eyes stared at him and meowed softly. He sighed out a smile and ran his fingers through the kitten''s fur. Ying Yue wondered how long his brothers would find a way for him to leave the cells without creating more trouble.


    ''Sect Leader Bo, your pride is large and to force me to submit¡­ What kind of man are you?''


    ==


    There were no windows to help him understand time nor days, but he knew it had been more than three moons judging by his scent. When food arrived, he let Snow have it. When Sect Leader Bo or his warriors entered to harm him, he made sure they did not hurt his pet.


    Sometimes, when he was tired and fallen into slumber, he saw his husband''s smile. Wang Li with his youthful laughter and silver eyes aimed at him with love.


    "Wang Li, my husband," he whispered blinking his golden eyes with a smile.


    "Hello my love. Ah Yue, what is wrong? Are you alright?"


    "I am so tired," Ying Yue admitted softly and felt fingers smearing the blood on his cut cheek.


    "It is my fault, my wife. Forgive me."


    "It isn''t you, Ah Li. I¡­ I just wish you are here with me."


    "I will always be with you," Wang Li whispered and he closed his eyes, "Did you forget, my love. I am inside you."


    ''Inside me¡­'' Ying Yue thought as he came to. Pushing himself off the floor, he glanced over at Snow who was walking back and forth protectively. Touching his hand to his chest, he smiled slightly feeling his lover''s energy hidden beneath his own.


    ''Ah Li, are you alright? I have not received your butterfly since I left¡­ please be safe.''


    The cell opened and he pulled Snow to him as he prepared himself for the beating that was to come.


    After the 20th¡­ 31st¡­40th? He lost count on how many constant beatings he endured, but from the whipping and beating, his body was unable to heal as quickly. Coughing out blood, he leaned his head against the wall and stared at the dungy ceiling. The walls shook around him and dust from the ceiling fell on him, mixing with his blood.


    Bleary golden eyes blinked in confusion as Snow shivered and whimpered in his arms.


    Shouts were being heard, but he could barely hear or see. He was tired and closed his eyes, wondering if he were to die now, what would Wang Li do. Fingers touched his face so gently, sweetly as his husband would. He leaned into the touch and felt sleep hitting him.


    He could feel warmth near him and he felt breath against his lips.


    "Ah Li¡­"


    Fingers moved to his chest and he felt the heat against his skin. A kiss placed against his forehead and his breath hitched. He opened his eyes to see darkness. The candle had been lit earlier before he closed his eyes, wasn''t it?


    Trying to blink to see his husband, all he saw was black.


    "Ah Li-"


    He felt fingers cover his lips and he closed his eyes once more. When fingers removed from his lips, he tried to follow, but winced and gasped. Footsteps neared him and he saw light illuminating the space. Looking around in hopes to find his husband, he did not see his lover.


    Making a wounded sound, his eyes teared up.


    "Brother!"


    His brothers stepped into his space and once he knew he was safe, he fell unconscious against his brother, but his thoughts were on his king.

 Chapter 106 - Are You Free

    When he woke, he woke up to licks from his kitten. Lips curling, Ying Yue pulled Snow against him. Blinking around, he saw he was not in his room at the inn. The ceiling looked different and the room had-


    "You''ve finally awakened," the female smiled.


    Her dark hair curled down her waist and she smiled at him vacantly. Dressed in golden fine robe, she looked elegant with her hands folded over her lap. Sitting up slowly, he got off the bed and joined the female at the table. The lady poured him tea and drank from her cup quietly.


    "Thank you for caring for me, miss."


    Brown eyes glanced at him and hummed.


    "You have been recovering for five nights, Chosen One. You were close to dead when my warriors found you."


    His eyes widened from what she said and he touched his chest feeling a slight ache.


    "Was there anyone else in the cell¡­ when I was found?" He asked quietly.


    "No. Just you and that cat of yours."


    ''Oh¡­ was I dreaming again¡­ like before?''


    Ying Yue wondered and his thoughts went back to the warm palm against his cheek. They were calloused and chapped lips pressed against his forehead. They did not feel like Wang Li''s, but it had to be his husband, right?


    Shaking his head, Ying Yue sighed and looked at the female.


    Dark black hair and pretty brown eyes. She looked familiar, but he couldn''t remember from where. Then reality set in and his eyes hardened.


    "What about Sect Leader Bo?"


    "We will decide what to do about him."


    Ying Yue nodded and took a drink of his tea.


    "My brothers?"


    "They are outside."


    "Thank you. Are you the sect leader?"


    "I am."


    "Did Sect Leader Fang step down?"


    The female leader set her teacup down and stared at the platinum blonde. She searched his face for something that he didn''t know, before she let out a soft sigh.


    "He died recently."


    Ying Yue''s eyes widened and he bowed to the female.


    "My apologies."


    "¡­ so it is true."


    "I am sorry?" He questioned lifting his head.


    "You do not remember my name."


    "I¡­ do not."


    ''Am I supposed to? Did I meet her somewhere?'' Ying Yue questioned confused.


    The female hummed and tapped twice with the wooden portion of her fan on the table. The door opened and he looked over to see his brothers entered. The brunette quickly rushed to him and looked him over with furrowed brows.


    "I am fine, brother."


    "You almost died¡­ again!" Han Mo wrapped his arms around him and he leaned against his brother.


    "Sect Leader Bo should be punished, Sect Leader Jing," the redhead stated sitting beside him, closer than he normally would.


    "I understand your feelings, but it is not my decision alone to give punishment."


    Ying Yue ran the female leader''s name around his head, but he still could not figure out if he ever met her.


    "Thank you, Sect Leader Jing for saving me and caring for my brothers and I. I hope it was not too much trouble?" Ying Yue bowed and smiled at the female.


    "It was very troublesome, Chosen One," the female stated flatly and was about to continue, but another voice entered.


    "Here? Oh, hello," a young man with dark blue hair and a bright smile, "Why did you not tell me he is up, Ah Jing?"


    "He just woke up, Sect Leader Zhi."


    "So formal. Are you putting face?" He laughed and joined them at the table, "I am glad you are looking well, Chosen One. We all feared you did not survive such torture."


    "Thank you for your assistance, Sect Leader Zhi. I owe both you and Sect Leader Jing my life."


    "It was about time. Ah Bo was getting out of hand. Good thing he came and spoke with me and good thing Ah Jing was doing nothing."


    "I was doing something," the female leader stated with a frown.


    "Of course, you were," Sect Leader Zhi rolled his eyes.


    Ying Yue paused in his sip and placed the teacup down. He thought about what the man had just said and the same word rolled around in his mind. He glanced at his brothers and they seemed to be in their own thoughts.


    "Sect Leader Zhi, if I may ask¡­ who is the person who came to you."


    "Hm? Ah¡­ he was quite an attractive man," the male leader tapped his chin, "Dark hair with a pretty face. He wore red¡­ he actually looked familiar¡­"


    Ying Yue''s heart raced, and he found his face warming up in happiness.


    Was it who he thought it was? Could it be Wang Li, his lover? Rolling his ring, he bit his bottom lip and looked at his tea. If it was his husband, then why had his lover not returned to him? If it was his king, why was he hiding?


    "Ah! Got it!" Sect Leader Zhi exclaimed, "It must have been that famous painter from the West Sector. Ah, he normally wore a mask so I didn''t recognize him. He was quite majestic, Ah Jing. Prettier than you even."


    Brown eyes narrowed at the male leader, who only laughed.


    "Eh? Why would the painter come to you and how did he know of Heaven''s Chosen''s situation."


    "Well¡­ he said, ''Sect Leader Zhi. I have painted you whatever you wished and asked for nothing, but I beg for your assistance now. Hidden in the cells of the North is a gift from the Heavens. If he dies, many will die as well. If you could do this for me, my lord, I shall give you whatever you wish as long as it is within my limits.'' I asked him how he knew and he told me he was there painting for a shoe maker when he overheard some warriors boasting about it."


    "What did you ask from him?" Sect Leader Jing asked with a quirk of her brow.


    "A kiss," the male leader in blue grinned and Ying Yue dropped his teacup, spilling the content across the wooden table. Yet all he could think of was his husband kissing another man.


    Face flushed, he apologized and offered a smiled. He swallowed down the anger and betrayal away because he did not know if it was really his husband or not.


    "You liar," the female stated and watched the servant clean the mess on the table.


    "Hmm," the male leader shrugged with a smile and thanked the servant who left.


    "Did you, Sect Leader Zhi, received your reward?" Ying Yue forced out of his mouth, clenching his fingers against his thighs. His heart felt like it was being balanced on a thin string, ready to fall and break into pieces.


    "The kiss?" The man laughed, "Eh, Chosen One, I did not know someone pure as you would like to know."


    "I am curious is all," Ying Yue strained out as his shoulders tensed.


    "No, Sect Leader Jing is right, I received no kiss."


    Just like that, his entire body relaxed and his heart found its balance again.


    "What did you ask for?"


    "Nothing."


    "Nothing?" Ying Yue blinked surprised as his brows rose.


    "He is a good man, Chosen One. Living a free life one would be envious of."


    The blonde smiled closed lip and nodded.


    ''A free life¡­ Ah Li¡­ is that you? Are you free now?''


    Ying Yue found his smile turned into a frown as he thought about it longer.


    ''Why have you not come to me?''


    Sect Leader Yang joined them later at the table and they continued to speak on what decision to take for the Sect Leader of the North. Once they agreed, they headed out to the courtyard where the man in purple stood with his chin held high.


    "Sect Leader Bo, we have gathered and spoken," Sect Leader Jing stated on the stage with Sect Leader Zhi and Sect Leader Yang.


    "And what did you find, dear Jing? That I should be stripped of my title? Hah!" The man in purple grinned, "Do you think this is the end? Do you think I am the only one who wouldn''t go after him? Did you really think my warriors were strong enough to capture those demons?! They were brought to me like a present!"


    "What are you saying, Ah Bo! Who brought them to you?" The leader in blue questioned.


    Sect Leader Bo was laughing, cackling as if what was stated was the most humorous thing. Ying Yue searched the sect leader''s face and felt a familiar sense of darkness emitting the air. His brothers felt the same and they looked around searching for the source.


    An arrow shot through the air and strike its target.


    "Sect Leader Bo! Get him down!" Sect Leader Zhi shouted and the man was pulled down, gargling blood as the arrow pierced his heart.


    Ying Yue looked up at the roof from the distance of the arrow and found his entire body shook. He saw black hair flowing and red fabric against milky skin. Golden eyes tried to see the face, but the man was already leaving, jumping off the roof to disappear.


    Ying Yue wanted to go after him, see if it was Wang Li, see who would attack Sect Leader Bo, see who this man in red was.


    "Go!" His brown-haired brother shouted and rushed to the purple robed man.


    He rushed after the man with his redhead brother and saw a sliver of red. They followed down roads and corners, then there were two peeks of red going the opposite directions. He glanced at his big brother and the man tilted his chin one way and left the other way.


    Ying Yue ran trying to catch up to his lover who was or was not the person who attacked Sect Leader Bo.


    Catching sight of black hair, he put an extra sprint into his steps and turned the corner with his sword readied.


    "Stop!"

 Chapter 107 - Deep As His Bleeding Love

    He shouted and saw the man in red paused. Heart racing and feeling breathless, he tightened his hands as the man with long dark hair turned.


    Demon mask covered his face.


    "Sir Ghost?"


    He felt his entire face fall and he frowned.


    "Did you attack Sect Leader Bo?"


    The man stepped forward. He stepped back.


    Sir Ghost reached out with his index finger and pricked his finger on the tip of his blade. Ying Yue pulled his blade away and watched as the man marked his palm. Facing it to him, the blonde relaxed slightly.


    ''No.''


    "Did you see anyone else here?"


    ''Problem.''


    "Sect Leader Bo was attacked just now by a man in red and black hair. I want to believe you, Sir Ghost, but I need more answers."


    The man with the mask tilted his head for a moment before the man marked the back of his hand.


    ''Red.''


    "Yes. He was wearing red."


    Marked the arm.


    ''Same.''


    Ying Yue stared at Sir Ghost''s red robe and noted it was different. The one from the killer''s was luxurious just like the red Wang Li would wear. He shook his head and the man marked up his arm.


    ''Help.''


    "You need help?"


    ''You.''


    "I need help?"


    ''Yes.''


    "¡­"


    ''Killer.''


    "The one my brother followed must be him, I should go help him."


    Moving to write on his other arm, the man with the mask paused realizing that would be difficult. He looked over at the blonde and Ying Yue stepped forward, offering his shoulder.


    ''Go. I. Follow.''


    "No. You stay here to be safe, Sir Ghost."


    Ying Yue smiled at the man, but paused for a moment.


    ''I should bring him too, just in case it was him.''


    "Come," he grabbed the man''s wrist and ran back to where his brother headed, hoping the redhead found the man in red.


    ''Ah Li, if it is you, why are you running? Why do you feel different?''


    They ran for awhile and could not find where his brother or the killer was. Ying Yue turned a corner, another corner, down a different road, and stopped at a dead end. Pursing his lips, he turned and ran over to a different road, a different corner, and a different space. Breathing out a pout, he looked over at the man in the mask.


    ''Lost.''


    "Yeah¡­ I¡­ I am new to this area."


    ''Memories. Short.''


    "Hey! It''s just¡­ I haven''t gotten used to this village."


    The man in the mask turned and headed off in a direction, bringing him along. To his surprise, they did not get lost, not even a hesitation.


    Entering through the palace, he searched for his big brother. Seeing the bright flaming hair, he rushed to him and saw his brother was unharmed. Letting out a relieved sigh, he could feel the tension in the air.


    "Big brother, I am glad you are alright."


    "I am."


    "Did you find out who it was? The one I found was-" he turned to see he was alone again. Was he not holding Sir Ghost''s wrist when he entered? Slapping his forehead, he realized he let it go in search for his brother. Shaking his head, he sighed over at his brothers.


    "It was Sir Ghost. His clothing does not match."


    "Who is Sir Ghost?" The brunette questioned.


    "He was the one we helped back in the West Sector. He wore a demon mask covering his face."


    "Oh, why was he here?"


    "I didn''t ask¡­"


    "That is alright, Ah Yue. You have good judgement when it comes to people, I trust you," his brother smiled and he relaxed his shoulders, "Come. We must discuss things with the sect leaders. Now that one sector no longer has a leader, it makes the North Sector vulnerable. The other leaders are discussing how to move forward."


    "Is Sect Leader Bo¡­"


    "He is dead. The killer aimed perfectly. We had no chance of saving him."


    Nodding his head, he glanced at where the man in purple was tied up. He may not care for Sect Leader Bo, but no one deserved death¡­ not in this way. Sending a slight prayer, he followed his brothers to a room.


    The guards knocked on the door, announcing their arrival. Entering, Ying Yue noted five warriors inside since the event. Sect Leader Zhi was pacing the floor, Sect Leader Yang was fanning himself, and Sect Leader Jing stood unperturbed. Their chancellors were not beside them and he wondered if it was due to suspicions.


    "Did you find out who did it?" The green robed leader questioned in a hurry.


    "I am sorry, but we did not," Ying Yue admitted and the leader sighed defeated.


    "Sect Leader Bo had just died! We will be next! I don''t want to die, cultivators, Heaven''s Chosen."


    "Shut your mouth, Sect Leader Yang. We must think clearly," the female stated crossing her arms, "The North Sector is free of its leader. We must assign someone to take the place or it will stay vulnerable. Whoever the killer is, he may be trying to destroy the system of order."


    "Who do you have in mind?" Sect Leader Zhi questioned and the female''s brown eyes looked to the redhead, "We, you cannot-"


    "Xu Ling will be able to lead and protect the North Sector temporarily. I do not trust anyone but those in this room," she stood tall with her eyes unwavering, "Do you accept, cultivator."


    "Big brother¡­" Ying Yue turned to the redhead with unsure eyes. Would his brother really lead the North Sector and prepare them?


    "I do."


    The female leader breathed out a smile and her shoulders relaxed. Sect Leader Jing nodded, pleased the cultivator agreed with her.


    "Do you think it was him? The one who brought the demons to Ah Bo?" The one in green questioned tapping his fan on his palm, "Why him? Why would Ah Bo turn in such an evil way? I remember when he was nicer. He¡­ he was the one who introduced me to you two."


    "He was not this way before?" Ying Yue questioned to receive a shake of brown hair.


    "No¡­ I mean, he can get mean sometimes, but he would still communicate and work with us."


    "When did the change happen?"


    "I¡­ maybe a few months?"


    "We could tell there was a change happening with Ah Bo, but he was not listening to us. He cut off all ties to us and tossed away the protective talisman," Sect Leader Zhi crossed his arms and frowned.


    "Talisman? Do you have it?"


    Ying Yue questioned and Sect Leader Jing nodded and handed him the item. Holding it in his hands, his eyes widened feeling the familiar energy. His thumb rubbed over the pheonix emblem. Smiling, he recognized it from many moons ago.


    "I am glad to see you holding this still. It had been a long time since I''ve seen this again," he said handing the item back.


    "Yes, it had been passed down to the leaders for many generations. It had protected my sector for many years, even when demons appeared."


    "I had demons in mine," Sect Leader Yang pouted and the female turned to him with a flat face.


    "That''s because you broke yours. You should be thankful they were only at the outskirts of your sector."


    The young man in green opened his fan and hid behind it in embarrassment.


    "Do you have it on you? I could help fix it," Ying Yue offered, but the man shook his head.


    "Chosen One, we leave our talisman with our sector to protect it."


    "Ah, my apologies. After we catch the killer and find a leader for the North, I will return with you to check your talisman."


    "Thank you! You have honored me once again, Heaven''s Chosen."


    "I will join you as we head North, cultivator. We must speak with the chancellor. Are you ready to go?" Sect Leader Jing asked and his older brother spoke up.


    "I wish to speak with my brothers for a moment, then I shall be ready."


    Once the leader nodded, he walked off to the side with his brothers.


    "Han Mo, bring Lady Nuying and my child to me," the redhead said to the brunette.


    "Alright. Is everything okay? You seem distraught," Han Mo looked at the tensed look.


    "Just do it," Xu Ling gritted out and sighed, running a hand through his hair.


    Ying Yue watched Han Mo nod and the attention went to him. He saw his elder brother''s lips thinned for a moment. The redhead reached into his sleeve and pulled out a red fabric.


    Handing it to him, Ying Yue felt his entire blood drop.


    ''This¡­ this can''t be¡­ no, I don''t believe this. It can''t be!''


    His fingers clenched and they shook as he stared at the handkerchief. His heart was hurting, like blood was having difficulty getting through the tension of his veins. He shut his golden eyes closed, trying to take a deep breath that quivered his heart.


    The beautiful red fabric, deep as his bleeding love for his lover, his husband, his world.


    His thumb rolled over the golden plum blossom.


    The handkerchief belonged to Wang Li.

 Chapter 108 - This Is Not His Doing

    Ying Yue stayed behind with Sect Leader Zhi and Han Mo escorted Sect Leader Yang back with his warriors. From what the blue clothed man stated, he assigned his brother to care for his sector, so he was not worried about his area. That made things a little easier for them all.


    Ying Yue was currently up on the roof placing warding charms around the palace. He stated he would head out of the palace and ward around the vicinity. Sect Leader Zhi agreed and he left to the outskirts. He did as he said, but his mind was still focused on the fabric hidden in his sleeve.


    Wang Li¡­ he was the one who killed Sect Leader Bo, but why? That did not make sense to him. What reason would he have to do such a thing?


    ''To create chaos,'' his inner voice reminded him.


    ''For what purpose?'' He asked, but dread washed over him like he was buried six feet under.


    "It''s my fault," he shut his eyes, "I shouldn''t have left again. Forgive me, Ah Li. Please¡­"


    He whispered and clenched his heart with his fingers. He¡­ he did not want to believe it was his husband, but this handkerchief¡­ it was his.


    He heard footsteps neared him and he turned to the man with a demon mask. Forcing a smile, he waved at the man in raggedy red. He saw him tilt his head before walking over.


    "Please be careful, Sir Ghost. Here," Ying Yue handed him a warding charm, "It will protect you from some ghosts."


    Sir Ghost held the charm and folded it into his sleeve. The man reached out a scarred finger to his shoulder, fingers that no longer covered with the whites of the leather glove.


    ''Thank you.''


    "You are welcome."


    The finger hovered over his shoulder for a moment.


    ''Sad.''


    Ying Yue felt his nose tickle as his eyes watered more.


    ''Cry. Okay.''


    Fingers wiped his cheek and he felt the wetness, signifying his tears. Inhaling sharply, he felt his chest trembled as he cried. Stepping forward to the man, he felt fingers slipped away from his skin. Sir Ghost stepped back and there was distance between them again.


    Wiping his face with his sleeves, his heart was hurting, bleeding, crying. He felt his arms pulled away and a white cloth was pressed against his cheeks, dampening it with his tears.


    "Thank you," he whispered and he felt the handkerchief stay on his skin for a moment, chilling his heated skin.


    ''Tell.''


    "I will be fine, Sir Ghost," the blonde shook his head and stepped back to bow, "Please take care of yourself."


    He turned and walked away, leaving the man with the mask staring at the wet white cloth, embroidered in a golden koi fish.


    When Ying Yue returned, he heard a meow and he smiled. Snow was being held by a female with a kind smile and soft eyes. He thanked her and picked up his pet, nuzzling his face with the kitten.


    "Chosen One, he is very sweet."


    "Thank you miss."


    "It is rare to see a leopard, lest of all a snow leopard."


    "He is a gift," Ying Yue said gently and ran his fingers through Snow''s fur, earning purrs, "I will go meet with Sect Leader Zhi now. Thank you once again, miss."


    "It was my honor, Chosen One."


    He bowed and headed over to find the sect leader. The dark blue haired man was speaking with one of his people in blue. Ying Yue waited with Snow until the leader was finished, before walking up to the sect leader.


    "Oh, Heaven''s Chosen. Is everything done?"


    "I''ve warded the entire sector, Sect Leader Zhi, but I worry about your sector. I should go ward it off too."


    "I am also worried. Do you think you can get there quickly? My brother is doing his best to handle my sector, but¡­ they are not too fond of him."


    A sigh escaped his lips and he walked out of the room. Ying Yue followed and bowed to those who greeted them. They seemed to be walking to an area he didn''t recognize.


    Glancing at Snow who sat in his arms quietly, he noticed they were walking through a place with no pathways.


    "Sect Leader Zhi?"


    "Chosen One, you are very kind. The Ghost King¡­ this is not his doing. I know it."


    Ying Yue blinked his golden eyes and held his pet tighter.


    "What do you mean?"


    The man paused and turned to him. His face was set in determination, true on his own conviction.


    "The Ghost King is a kind man. I have spoken to him often. He saved my brother, Chosen One. I owe him much."


    Ying Yue could not help how his heart pumped happily. His beautiful Wang Li, showing he was more than the burden he was given. He smiled and felt thankful to the brunette.


    "I agree. He is kind."


    The blue haired man''s shoulder''s relaxed. A charming smile replaced the deep-set lips and blue eyes crinkled into crescents.


    "I am glad to hear that, Chosen One. Come, I wish to show you something."


    The platinum blonde followed passed the forest to a rocky area where a temple was built. He stared at it for a moment and Snow perked up.


    "Meow."


    Snow sounded and wriggled out of his hold to run up the steps to the temple. Ying Yue followed Sect Leader Zhi to enter the temple and he found his heart racing. A statue of Wang Li carved from stone stood looking just as regal as the Ghost King was. Candles lit the area and he could not help the smile crawling on his lips.


    "Is this¡­ your doing?"


    "My brother and I made it a long time ago. We figured if Ah Yang was so adamant in worshipping you, Chosen One, it would not be fair to our king."


    Ying Yue wanted to cry. This was amazing and his heart felt so full of proudness.


    "Are you alright, Chosen One? You aren''t angry, right?"


    "No, I am just¡­," he took a deep breath, "Thank you. This is wonderful."


    "Meow," Snow sounded and they walked over to him, to see he was getting himself comfortable on a delicate red fabric on the floor.


    "Snow, this is not a place to stay," he laughed picking Snow up to earn sad noises from the kitten, "This is where we can come to pray for our king, ok?"


    A lick of an agreement from the snow leopard caused him to let out a laugh.


    "Thank you, Sect Leader Zhi for showing this to me. It made me very happy."


    "I am glad. Do you wish to pray with me?"


    Ying Yue nodded and joined. His thoughts went to when he prayed with his lover for Sheng Shui, but now he was praying for Wang Li. He smiled softly as he placed the incents in the bowl and knelled down on the pillow to bow.


    ''I pray for your health, your love, your happiness my love.''


    When they left the temple, Ying Yue felt himself lighter and happier. Leaving Snow with the blue haired man, he stepped onto his sword and flew to the South Sector. When he arrived, he noticed how quiet the place was.


    He saw a man that wore the outfit of a chancellor and called out to him.


    "Chosen One, what brings you here? Did something happen to Sect Leader Zhi?"


    "No, he is alright. However, I would need to ward your sector. Sect Leader Bo was murdered and we are currently looking for the culprit. Is the secondary leader in?"


    "Many apologies, Chosen One. He is currently busy withholding changes the villagers are requesting."


    "I can assist him, if he wishes."


    "No need," the man waved his hand, "Please ward our sector, Chosen One. I will tell him your purpose. I am sure Sect Leader Zhi would expect you to return."


    Ying Yue furrowed his brows at such avoidance. He would need to speak with Sect Leader Zhi about the cold reception. Shaking his head, he went and did as he came to do. As he placed the last warding charm, he felt the hair at the back of his neck rise. The sense of danger made him alert and he turned quickly with his sword in hand.


    The back of a man in red with long black hair was before him. His eyes widened and his heart quickened, as he tightened his fist on the hilt of his blade. The man turned slightly, but Ying Yue still wasn''t able to see the face clearly.


    He rushed off and Ying Yue chased.


    Ying Yue ran as fast as he could, trying to catch this man, this killer. Entering what looked like a cavern, he turned the corner and bumped into someone. Quickly jumping back, he held his sword before him and his brows rose.


    "Sir Ghost?"


    The man with the demon mask stared at him, rubbing his chest against the red tunic.


    "Wh¡­ What are you doing here?"

 Chapter 109 - Why Are You Hiding

    "I¡­ I am sorry. There was someone that ran in here. I need to stop him."


    The man in red pointed in a direction and Ying Yue nodded.


    "Thank you."


    He followed where Sir Ghost pointed and heard footsteps running with him. Glancing behind him, he saw the man with the mask was following him. He wanted to tell the man to stop, it would be dangerous, but it would only lead to him missing the killer.


    ''I will protect him.''


    He continued to run forward through the cavern, as the walls narrowed before they reached an opened area. His feet slowed as his heart skipped. He blinked his golden eyes and he bit his lips as they quivered.


    "Ah Li¡­"


    It was him. His husband was in front of him with a warm smile and soft silver eyes. His heart was jumping, wanting to escape to his lover. His lips curled and he took a step forward.


    Fingers clutched his wrist.


    He looked over at the man with the mask, who was holding him back. The man was staring at his lover and he glanced at his husband to see the soft smile flattened.


    "Sir Ghost. This is my husband. Why are you stopping me?"


    The hand tightened.


    ''Lie. Ask.''


    "What?"


    Sir Ghost turned to him with his finger pressing deeper onto his shoulder, writing words in a flurry that he was unable to catch them all. He stared at the tension on the demon masked man''s shoulders. Forehead creasing, he opened his mouth prepared to calm the man down, but Sir Ghost flew back hitting the cavern wall.


    "Sir Ghost! What are you doin-"


    Before he was able to finished his words, his husband forced his mouth on his.


    Gasping, the force clinked their teeth together and his lover continued to lick into him. Hands clenched on red garment, he shut his eyes. Smell¡­ no smell washed over him and his body was on alert. Hands were cold on his robe, seeping through to chill him. The way this man kissed¡­ it was not like Wang Li.


    Opening his eyes, he pushed away, but the man held on. Trying to pull back once more, he did not budge. Getting upset, he sent out his energy to his palms and pushed it against the man in red''s chest. Gasping for breath, he watched the man stumbled back before narrowed silver eyes stared at him.


    "Who are you?" Ying Yue asked wiping his lips.


    The man did not reply and he stepped back toward the groaning man with a demon mask. As he stepped back, the man that looked like his husband stepped forward, eyeing him like a prey.


    "You killed Sect Leader Bo. Why?"


    Still no reply and he offered a hand behind him to Sir Ghost. He felt a hand wrap around him and he helped pull the man up, with his eyes still on the imposter.


    "Why are you not speaking? Do you think pretending to be the Ghost King will make us hate him?"


    "¡­"


    ''Dead. Face. Steal.''


    Ying Yue nodded in agreement.


    Face stealing ghost. He remembered Wang Li told him this ghost was notorious in taking the form of a forlorn lover. Then, it would suck the life from the human and eat their souls. He remembered telling his lover how terrible that was.


    [''It is,'' Wang Li nodded, ''It shall never starve if it were to ever escape the portal. Humans, demons, even the Heavens wish for the person they love.'']


    Ying Yue stared at the imposter and thinned his lips. Calling for his sword, he stood before Sir Ghost and watched as the imposter''s face scowled.


    "You''ve tricked me into thinking you are the Ghost King, but my husband is not dead. You made your mistake, imposter."


    A grin spread and its skin started to peel off revealing black purplish goo on the ghost.


    He was holding a familiar looking sword in his hand and rushed forward. Ying Yue blocked the blade and his eyes widened to see the name etched into the sword. Letting out a growl, he swung hard and focused on defeating this ghost that looked like his husband, this ghost that somehow had Wang Li''s sword and handkerchief.


    The ghost swung and he blocked, but was unprepared for the wiggly third arm that shot out of the skin to punched him in the gut. His hair was pulled back and he sent out a ball of energy at the ghost. It removed itself from him and jumped back, but the char of shoulder was seen on the enemy.


    He landed a hit.


    Holding his sword before him, he infused it with his light energy and swung it in a circle before him, before rushing in. The ghost was screaming from the brightness of his burning light, but it continued to fight against him.


    The ghost howled loudly, as skin fell apart to reveal a blob of goo pulsing purple. It no longer had the sword and Ying Yue stepped forward with a frown, ready to send the ghost back.


    However, an arm shot out to pull Sir Ghost to him, using the man as a shield. Ying Yue paused and he looked alarmed, but that quickly disappeared when the man with the mask stabbed the ghost with Wang Li''s sword.


    "Do not kill it," he called out as he rushed forward to the screaming ghost.


    He pressed a hand to the ghost''s skin who was writhing and groaning. Once the ghost was gone, he took a deep breath and turned to the man beside him. Sir Ghost looked at him before handing him his lover''s sword. Ying Yue held it in his hands and smiled, but he was even more worried now.


    Wang Li without his sword¡­ what did that mean? Did something happen to his husband?


    He glanced at the man who winced and he quickly tied the sword to his side. Helping Sir Ghost to sit against the wall, he felt around where the pain was. He earned a hitched of breath and he quickly grabbed the medicine his brother left him before travel. He popped open the bottle and paused before the man''s full mask.


    Fingers wrapped around his hand, holding the medicine bottle.


    Sir Ghost pulled the hand down and he felt a thumb ran over his skin. Kneeled before the man in the mask, he looked at their hands. His heart uptake and he swallowed deeply, as his face flushed. Clearing his throat, he pulled his hand away.


    "This is medicine, Sir Ghost. It will heal your wounds."


    Fingers touched his cheek and his eyelashes fluttered. Smooth and cold slid to tuck his blonde lock, making his heart stammered. He felt a finger moved against his cheek.


    ''Fine.''


    "You''re hurt, Sir Ghost. Please-"


    ''Beautiful.''


    "¡­"


    ''Thank you.''


    "What for?" He whispered softly.


    ''You.''


    Ying Yue wished he saw the man''s face. Everything in him was too relaxed, too free, too comforted from being beside Sir Ghost. He shouldn''t feel this way. He shouldn''t care for him in this way, but¡­


    "May I see your face?"


    ''Why?''


    "I need to know. Please."


    Fingers pulled away and he held the man''s wrist and kept it in place. There was no one else that made his heart race this way. There was no one else who made him feel so safe. There was no one else who could make him want to be beside.


    ''No.''


    His fingers tightened around the man''s wrist.


    ''Sorry.''


    "Do I know you? Tell me, Sir Ghost. Do I?"


    The man did not move for a moment and he thinned his quivering lips.


    ''It had to be him. It had to be.''


    "I need to know¡­ please¡­ Ah Li."


    The man in the mask peeled his fingers away from his wrist and Ying Yue bit his lips and looked away. Forcing out a laugh, he shook his head and placed his hand on his face. Taking a deep breath, he turned back to Sir Ghost and sent an apologetic smile.


    "Sorry. I think I might be sick."


    He blinked slowly at the man sitting against the wall and found his head tilting, or maybe it was Sir Ghost. He wasn''t sure.


    He fell against the man suddenly and heard a groan, but all he could think about was how the smell of plum blossoms and wood filled his nose. He nuzzled closer and pressed his nose up against the curve of cold neck with a sigh. He felt hands at his shoulders, trying to push him off, but he made a wounded sound and pressed closer.


    "Ah Li, why are you hiding from me?"


    He mumbled groggily and his body felt as if it was a sandcastle being washed away by the waves. He felt fingers in his hair and a hand rubbing his back.


    "Is it because I left? I am sorry. Forgive me¡­ I love you so much."


    He mumbled and felt his eyes closed in arms that are cold and a smell that was familiar.


    When he woke, he sat up quickly on alert. Looking around, he found himself in a familiar room, a familiar smell and¡­


    There was a body beside him.


    ''Ah Li?''

 Chapter 110 - To Love Someone So Deeply

    Black hair cascading down milky white skin.


    His jaw dropped and he reached out with his heart beating out of his chest. Fingers touched warm skin and he gasped with wide eyes. Fingers trembling, he moved closer. He leaned over and peered at the face. He inhaled sharply and placed his trembling hand against the man''s face.


    Eyes of silver opened.


    The body turned around and he stared unblinkingly, afraid he was disappeared.


    "Ah Yue."


    "Ah Li¡­"


    "What is wrong, my wife?"


    He felt a warm hand cupped his face and he shivered. Taking deep breaths, he swallowed down the lump in his throat. Searching his lover''s face, his husband looked exactly as he did so many years ago.


    "Where are we?"


    "In my bed," the man smirked and he flushed.


    "I mean¡­ are we at the palace?"


    "Yes."


    "How did I get here?"


    Wang Li sat up to face him better and Ying Yue saw worry in those silver eyes.


    "What is wrong? What troubles you?"


    Ying Yue didn''t want to believe this. He didn''t want to believe he somehow ended up at the palace where his lover was with him. He didn''t want to believe Wang Li was an imposter as well.


    "I met a face stealing ghost¡­"


    Silver eyes widened and searched his face.


    "Where? They should be in the portal."


    "You told me they took the form of a dead lover¡­ is it possible¡­ is it possible they would go into my dreams?"


    "No, that is not what they do¡­ are you having trouble sleeping?"


    "I¡­ don''t know."


    "Did you fight it?"


    "Yes."


    Wang Li looked alert and searched his body, making sure to remove his robe, which still made him flush. He felt a press against his back and he yelped, panting from the pain.


    "Poisoned."


    "Huh?"


    "You''ve been poisoned, Ah Yue. Listen to me," he felt hands cupped his face and he blinked droopily at his lover, "You need to remove the poison as soon as possible. The longer it stays, the closer to death you become. Do you understand."


    He nodded slowly.


    "Help me."


    He saw Wang Li smiled at him and pressed his lips against his. This was his husband''s kiss: sweet and gentle. Tongues danced along his and licked along his pallet. They parted and Ying Yue had a hard time opening his eyes, but he felt the kisses along his cheek to his ear. He felt the pinch against his wound and he gasped pressing closer to his husband.


    "That hurts."


    Hands rubbed his cheek soothingly and he winced with a whimper from the pain.


    "I am sorry, Ah Yue."


    Those words were whispered into his ear, but they sounded so far away. He tried to capture the words, the voice, the man holding his heart. Like the curse of Heavens, he was unable to have Wang Li.


    Ying Yue felt wakefulness came to him, but he stayed still, trying to hold back the way his heart clenched and rip like tissues. His golden eyes peeked through his lids and he saw he was still in the cavern. There was a fire burning, but he didn''t feel warm at all.


    He saw the man in raggedly red at the other end of the fire and he blinked. Pushing up from being face down on the floor, he winced with a sharp inhale. Shuffling was heard and he held out a hand for the man to stop.


    "I am alright, Sir Ghost."


    The man stopped and watched him struggle to sit up. Leaning against the wall, avoiding his wound, he let out a breath. He reached back and felt the wrap around his infliction, causing his shoulders to tense. He glanced at the man still in his half position of standing and sitting.


    "You¡­ cleaned my wound."


    The man nodded.


    "Thank you¡­"


    He offered a weary smile and searched into his sleeve for the medicine. Taking a drink of it, he let out a deep sigh and placed the bottle back in its compartment. He stared at the fire flickering, dancing smoothly into the air. He smiled as a memory of the first time Wang Li and he decided to make a fire. Letting out a soft laugh, he shook his head.


    "Have you ever been in love, Sir Ghost? To love someone so deeply in you very core that your entire world becomes theirs."


    The man did not reply and he hummed.


    "I am sorry," he chuckled wiping his face, "I just miss him."


    The man with the demon mask stood up and walked cautiously to him. His golden eyes watched as Sir Ghost knelt before him and stared at him. Hands cupped his cheeks and he felt his face flushed.


    He tried pulling away, but the man held tighter and he pursed his plumped lips. He tensed up when hands smoothed down his cheek to the curve of his neck, before sliding down his arms to his hands.


    The man in red lifted his hands and placed it on his mask.


    "You¡­ you''re letting me see you?"


    Thumbs ran over his pulse point on his wrists and Ying Yue felt his heart race. Not because Sir Ghost was doing it, but from what it meant, who it seemed so familiar to.


    Forcing himself to swallow so he could breathe, the blonde''s fingers trembled against the clay mask. His lips felt dried and his skin was sweating with anticipation.


    A thought floated through his mind and he tightened around the edge of the mask.


    "Why do you hide?" He whispered.


    Fingers pressed against his chest and he shivered from the touch. It moved, gliding into words and Ying Yue looked down.


    ''Fear.''


    "Of who?"


    ''Me.''


    His fingers itched on the mask and he shook his head.


    "Why?"


    ''Dead.''


    Ying Yue pulled away from the mask and just stared. Reaching for the fingers on his chest, he held tight to the hand and smiled.


    "You mean¡­ You''re a ghost?"


    Fingers pulled away from his hold and the man leaned back against the cavern. The blonde stared at his knees trying to understand what the man meant.


    ''He is cold and¡­ he hides his face¡­ but he fears himself because he is dead? Does he not know how he died?''


    He reached his hand out to touch the man''s cold forearm and smiled.


    "Dying should not be fearful or painful, Sir Ghost. Whether you know how it happened or why it happened or not know anything, you deserve to be at peace."


    The masked man stared at him in silent and Ying Yue smiled gently, comforting like a mother to a child. He felt fingers run gently over the top of his hand, languidly as a pastime.


    ''Will you give me one last kiss, before I go in peace?''


    Heaven''s Chosen flushed and his mouth parted in a surprised O. Mouth closing and opening before closing, Ying Yue cleared his throat and turned away.


    "Sir Ghost, you know I have a husband. I cannot¡­ I cannot give you a kiss."


    ''Not even if it is my last wish?''


    "Why¡­ why me?"


    ''Beautiful.''


    Ying Yue''s ears deepened with the flush and he stared at the fingers playing gently over his skin.


    "I¡­ I must ask for permission from my husband¡­"


    ''If he says no?''


    "¡­"


    ''Heaven''s Chosen.''


    "I¡­ am sorry, Sir Ghost. I cannot do so if he does not give his blessings. I will not be-"


    ''I know. It is fine. You are a true loyal wife.''


    Ying Yue nodded still not looking at the man, but something caught his attention. The words were not one worded character. It was close to a full-


    "You-"


    "I see something over here!"


    Footsteps entered their area and he waved at the warriors before him.


    "Heaven''s Chosen, we were sent by Sect Leader Zhi to find you. Please, follow us out of the cavern."


    Ying Yue smiled and nodded. He wrapped his hand around Sir Ghost''s wrist, as if it was natural, and followed the warriors in gold and blue. Once they were outside and free of the cavern walls, he took a deep breath of fresh air. He felt a tug against his hold and he turned to look at the man in raggedly red.


    ''I must go, Heaven''s Chosen. Thank you for spending time with me.''


    "You were the one who save me, Sir Ghost. I thank you. Will I see you again?"


    ''Maybe.''


    He watched the man with raven hair pulled up by a red tie, tall and lean with wide shoulders walking away. He found himself smiling and he let out a soft laugh, shaking his head.


    "Sir."


    He turned away from the man that was long gone now and smiled at the warriors.


    "Let us return."


    ==


    "Ah Yue."


    "Hmm?" He mumbled groggily.


    "I need you."


    He smiled and turned slowly around.


    "Will you still wait for me?"


    "Mmhmm," he blinked slowly to clear his mind.


    "Don''t forget me."


    ''Funny my love. I don''t think I ever could,'' he whispered as sleep left him.

 Chapter 111 - There Were Two Paintings

    [Time had passed since the last chapter to now]


    Ying Yue sat up rubbing his eyes and sighed when he saw he was alone. Looking out of the opened window, he hummed with his eyes closed.


    After the defeat of the Face Stealing Ghost, things had calmed down. The sect leaders had assigned the North Sector chancellor to lead the sector, since Sect Leader Bo did not have kin. All the sectors were decorated with warding charms that would send a signal if a strong demon or ghost were to enter the sectors, alerting everyone. Similar to his master''s.


    His brothers and he had returned and they were currently at the cabin. Lady Nuying and her child had been staying with his elder brother in his room. His kind brother was busy writing letters and when the blonde asked who, the brunette would just grin and push him out of the room.


    Things were quiet and calming, almost like when they were younger.


    Ying Yue got up and picked up Snow, who was still too small to be a warrior like he was.


    "Do you miss being big, Snow?"


    The kitten blinked big blue eyes at him and he sighed out a smile. Petting the snow leopard, he hummed the tune of his song for his lover. Once he was finished, he picked up his pet and headed out of the room.


    Lady Nuying was sitting at the table with her sleeping child in her arm, drinking tea peacefully.


    "Lady Nuyung, how did you sleep?"


    "Very well," the female said softly with her ears reddening, "And yourself, Heaven''s Chosen?"


    "Please, call me Ying Yue. I slept well enough," he smiled.


    The female offered him a teacup and he thanked her.


    "What is your child''s name?"


    "Ah," she looked down at the sleeping child in her arm, "¡­ I want to name him after the Ghost King, but your brother was not fond of it."


    He let out a laugh and nodded.


    "My brother isn''t fond of the Ghost King."


    "He said as much," the female smiled at him and he returned it. Petting a purring kitten on his lap, he stared at the child, once with one eye, now had two and bouncy pink curls on the head.


    "Could you tell me more, about when the Ghost King helped you?"


    Lady Nuying blinked at him with her dark eyes and nodded.


    "I told Ah Ling that I was to return to the Netherworld because I knew what we did was against the heavens. I did not wish punishment on him and left him in such a cold manner," she sighed, "When I stood before the portal, I hesitated. I¡­ care deeply for him in such a short amount of time, but love to my kind was unheard of, Ying Yue. Your brother is righteous and strong, a warrior of the heavens. How can I dirty him?"


    She ran her fingers across her child''s face, earning a pleased sound from her son.


    "The Ghost King came to me and I was fearful of what he would do. He is a just king, but a hard one to please. I feared he would kill me if I do not return, so I hurried and stepped forward, but he held my arm back. I froze because I had no idea what he was going to do. Punishment from my king was said to be death. He¡­ he placed his hand on my stomach and searched my face. Then he told me I was with child."


    She laughed suddenly and caught herself.


    "What is so funny?"


    "When he told me this¡­ I threw up on him."


    "Oh¡­"


    "Hmm," the female smiled, "I was appalled at myself. Was I that scared that I had to ruin whatever reputation I had? My king just stared at me and took out a cloth to clean my face. I wondered what I did to be treated so kindly by him. The Ghost King offered his palace to stay and when I entered, the place was not well kempt."


    "Hm? What do you mean?"


    Lady Nuying looked at him before looking down at the tea steaming from her cup.


    "You look like the portraits."


    "¡­"


    "There was a shrine that looked cleaner than the entire palace. There were two images, both of pretty young men."


    "There were¡­ two paintings?"


    The pink haired demon drank her tea and side eyed him as she continued.


    "The Ghost King said they died young because of him, a regret he will carry for the rest of his life."


    Ying Yue felt his heart was hurting for his lover. Twiddling his thumbs on his lap, he swallowed down the lump in his throat. He imagined how long his husband waited for them, how he would stand outside in the cold praying for their return.


    Placing a hand on his heart, he could feel the other soul that belonged to Sheng Shui pulse in sadness.


    "He cared for me very well. Made food for me, cleaned my skin, dress me, everything¡­ he is a kind king."


    "He was¡­ he was alone?"


    "Yes. He also was there when I gave birth to my son," she paused to let out a quiet laugh, "My king was more scared than I was."


    Ying Yue smiled, but there were too many questions running through his mind. What did Lady Nuying mean Wang Li was the only one in the palace? What did she mean when the place was desolated?


    It didn''t make sense to him. There were his family there and the palace was beautiful when he returned from the other world.


    "I stayed at the palace until I felt I stayed too long. I was taking advantage of the kindness my king was giving me, a lowly demon. When I told him I was to leave, he offered the temple dedicated to him. I was surprised someone was worshipping my king."


    "You¡­ you don''t know who?"


    "No, but I am thankful for whoever it was."


    ''Could it be Sect Leader Zhi and his brother? He didn''t say they made more¡­''

 Chapter 112 - You

    Ying Yue nodded in agreement and took a sip of his tea. The sound of a waking child caught their attention. Black eyes blinked opened, before his face scrunched into a cry. Lady Nuying shushed as she placed the child''s head against her shoulder, rubbing his back.


    A door slammed opened and the adults turned to see the redhead, hair strayed and out of place, looking alert. The tension eased and he sighed sitting beside the female. He held out his arms for the child and the woman placed the crying baby in his arms.


    "Why must you cry, little one?" Gruff voice questioned as his big brother stared at the child''s face.


    "Papa?"


    "Mm," the man nodded and the child patted his face, before sticking baby hand in his little mouth no longer crying.


    "He''s gotten too used to you already," the pink haired female frowned.


    "He is my son," Xu Ling smiled softly at his son, who babbled contently.


    "That he is," she sighed and saw Xu Ling turned to her, mouth close to touch. Her cheeks flushed and she leaned back, coughing behind her sleeve.


    Ying Yue found himself grinning behind the cup as he watched the couple before him. Was he like this with his husband?


    "Here, Ah Ling," Lady Nuying handed a cloth to his brother and he leaned in interested.


    The redhead held the cloth in his hand and glanced up at her. She avoided his eyes by looking at their son petting the kitten.


    "Thank you, my peach."


    Lady Nuying flushed red and received a soft smile from her lover. She pushed his shoulder softly embarrassed but there was a smile on her lips.


    "No! No!" The child clapped his hands and watched as the snow leopard hop onto his hind legs twisting.


    Ying Yue watched and found himself feeling happy, yet¡­


    ["Ah Li," he laughed watched Snow jumping and twisting around his lover, "What is happening?"


    "Just watch, Ah Yue."


    Wang Li bent and clapped, making Snow jumped onto his back hopping on his hind legs, before jumping back down. Ying Yue found himself laughing for a while and he rushed to his little family when they both turned to him smiling.]


    "No! No!" The child laughed and Ying Yue pulled away from his memories. Smiling, he looked over at his brother''s little family.


    ''I am happy for you, big brother. I pray for your happiness.''


    ==


    Two Autumn Festivals had passed since he saw Wang Li. Snow was still a kitten and had not recovered from the pill. Speaking of the magic pill, his brother had asked if he had taken the container for them.


    "I have not brother, did you lose them?"


    "The only time I left my bag was in my rooms. Do you suppose someone looked through it?" The brunette questioned rummaging through his bag, pulling out items until the sack was empty.


    "I hope not, Ah Mo. Should we ask the sect leaders?"


    Ying Yue had knelt to look through the items that were covering the floor. His brother threw the empty bag and sighed, running fingers through his brown hair. Frowning, the medicine man crossed his arms.


    "No, whoever took it would be in for a surprise when they turn into a child."


    "But¡­ wouldn''t that be wrong of us to let it be?"


    "Was it not wrong to steal something that isn''t yours?"


    "Yes."


    "Then this is the consequence, little brother."


    Ying Yue nodded slowly, still not happy with what had happened.


    "Brother¡­ they could remain as a child for years¡­ Snow still have not returned to normal."


    "¡­"


    "Were there¡­ a lot?"


    "¡­"


    "Brother¡­"


    "A bottle full."


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "I will send out letters for them."


    "Ah Yue¡­ what I made is not sold¡­ it is considered to be¡­ uh¡­ unacceptable."


    "¡­ Ah Mo¡­"


    "Just¡­ I will go and search for it. Do not tell anyone, Ah Yue, not even big brother."


    "But-"


    "Ah Yue, please. It will not be a lie if no one asks, okay? Please?"


    Golden eyes stared at him as his brother pleaded with him. He found he sweat dropped seeing such a strange look on Han Mo. He figured the brunette was right¡­ it wouldn''t be a lie if no one knew or asked about it.


    "If someone asks me, then I will tell."


    "Okay!"


    Han Mo hugged him and he let out a laugh. Helping his brother packed, he watched as his brother spoke with the elder. He wasn''t sure what the brunette told the redhead, but there was an agreement that led to his kind brother waving goodbye. Waving back, he smiled and prayed for his brother''s safety and hasty search for the items.


    "Are you not packed as well?"


    Ying Yue turned to his eldest brother with furrowed brows. Tilting his head, he sent questioning eyes to the redhead.


    "Are you not traveling to the West Sector?"


    "¡­"


    "Was our brother lying?"


    Xu Ling stared at him with a straight face, but the child hanging off his back laughed and called out ''Uncle, uncle!'' did not send the intimidation his brother was looking for. Clearing his throat, he nodded slowly and offered an apologetic smile.


    "I must have forgotten why I was needed at the West Sector."


    "Sect Leader Yang had stated his painter had returned. He would like to paint you bare once more."


    "What?! Wasn''t¡­. wasn''t once enough?"


    "Seems he wished for more," the redhead grabbed the child to move before him, pecking the forehead of white skin. Placing the child down, he looked over at the blonde and sighed.


    "Are you going?"


    ''I have to now¡­''


    "Yes."


    So packing up and heading out, he waved goodbye to everyone at the cabin and took Snow with him. As they were about to enter the West Sector vicinity, he felt his spine froze and his hairs stand. The energy¡­ Ye Wu must be somewhere nearby. He searched around him, looking up and down and everywhere he could look to not find a thing. Frowning, he pulled out a defense charm before him.


    If Ye Wu, the strongest demon he had ever faced were to show up¡­ he took a deep breath and centered his qi. Then the demonic energy disappeared, like it was never there. He did not ease up his tension until he knew for sure the energy was gone. Snow looked at him with tilted head, watching him with big blue eyes.


    ''If Snow didn''t feel anything¡­ was I just imagining it?''


    Letting out a breath, he put the talisman back into his sleeves and headed through the warding charmed barrier. He held onto Snow as people bowed to him and he bowed back. Heading to the palace, he was brought to where Sect Leader Yang was currently sitting. He could hear hushed voices and he waited outside, as the guard knocked on the wooden door.


    "Sect Leader Yang, Heaven''s Chosen has arrived."


    He heard shuffling to the door and it opened to reveal an excited brunette.


    "Come, Heaven''s Chosen! Come meet my wonderful painter."


    He was dragged inside and he stumbled forward, but felt hands holding onto his shoulders steadying him. Glancing up, he found his jaw dropped open with his golden eyes staring at the man. He heard the leader in green speaking, but he couldn''t comprehend what was being said.


    "Heaven''s Chosen, are you alright?"


    "You¡­"

 Chapter 113 - Sir Painter

    "Hm? This is my painter. He painted you the day you revealed yourself, but you were far away. I wanted him to paint you exactly as detailed."


    "Painter¡­?"


    Hands that held him up, removed itself from his shoulder and he was left with the coldness those palms left.


    "Yes! I have not seen him in so long! You will go visit the other leaders?"


    Sect Leader Yang questioned and the man nodded. He grinned and waved them over to their spots. Dragging the blonde over to the center, he nodded and went to sit back with a grin behind his fan. His painter went to sit where his materials were and sat waiting. Heaven''s Chosen glanced at him before his eyes were back on his painter.


    ''Does Heaven''s Conduit know my painter?''


    He watched as the blonde slowly untied his belt and revealed milky white skin, flushed with pink.


    "Please, Heaven''s Chosen, please pose."


    "H¡­ how?"


    "Mm¡­ like this!"


    Sect Leader Yang posed seductively and Ying Yue flushed deeply. Another pose where the young man laid down with his legs spread. Another where the leader was on all fours, bent to spotlight his behind. Another and another, all inappropriate that made his entire body flush as he covered his eyes.


    "Sect Leader Yang! Please. Something¡­ appropriate."


    "Hm? They were inappropriate? Were they, painter?"


    The painter shook his head and the brunette laughed, causing the blonde to sit down covering below his waist.


    "Well, I suppose sitting down is fine too."


    Ying Yue sighed relieved and nodded.


    "You must look relaxed, Heaven''s Chosen."


    "I am naked, Sect Leader Yang."


    "Yes."


    "¡­"


    "Alright, why don''t you think about something nice? We could talk too, if that pleases you?"


    "Would it not affect the painting?"


    Ying Yue looked at the man and saw him shook his head.


    "See, my painter is the best! He can paint anything! He has wonderful memories."


    "I see."


    "What would you like to talk about? Oh! What about how you were chosen?"


    Ying Yue smiled and thought about what to say.


    "I was raised by my master. He had always told me I was chosen by the heavens, it was an honor to be a chosen. I grew up excited, happy that I would be the one to help everyone. I welcomed it¡­"


    He paused and he smiled softly as his eyes reminisce on the past.


    "¡­ but then I met him."


    "Who?"


    "My husband."


    "You are married?!"


    Ying Yue laughed as the young man stared at him shocked and flabbergasted.


    "But! But! You¡­ you are supposed to be innocent and pure and¡­ how could you be married? To a man even?! You are of the Heavens. How could they allow this? What-"


    The sound of the ink brush broke.


    The painter turned to the young leader and placed a finger to his thin lips. Sect Leader Yang pouted and covered half his face with the opened fan in his hand. The painter with the top half his face covered with decorated gold that swirled, like vines dancing in content over white, looked at the blonde and nodded for him to continue.


    Ying Yue just stared.


    He watched the man with raven hair grab another ink brush and dipped it into the liquid. He went back to stroking, but Heaven''s Chosen did not turn away from the way the painter looked. Ying Yue felt his heart beating quickly and he licked his lips a few times, trying to hydrate his chapped lips.


    ''Could it be¡­? Am I¡­ imagining this again? But... those lips... I would know them.''


    ["Ah Li, stop," he laughed as his lover tickled his sides and he twitched trying to get away from those fingers. He felt a kiss against his temple and Wang Li pulled away with a grin. Grinning back, he looked down at the table to see such beautiful strokes that formed an image of Snow staring at a butterfly.


    His golden eyes glanced up at his lover, his beautiful man sitting before him relaxed and content. The sunlight highlighted such beautiful features of his, any human, demon, Heaven would be jealous. He saw thin lips curl and parted.


    "Are you paying attention, Ah Yue?"


    He flushed embarrassed for being caught. He let out a giggle and looked down at the table in awe. He turned to Wang Li and could not help being envious.


    "You truly are a painter, husband."


    "Thank you, my beautiful wife."


    He kissed his lover and sighed happily as fingers glided through his hair.]


    "Heaven''s Chosen? Hello?"


    He blinked and came back to himself. Looking over at the brunette, he saw the man looked down at the sheet covering under his waist.


    "You should be bare, remember?"


    Ying Yue glanced over at the painter who waited patiently, watching him with a small smile. He pulled the sheet away and was naked before the painter and the leader. He took a deep breath.


    "When I met him¡­ it was fate, as if the heavens brought me to him. I knew he was special. I don''t know when I fell in love with him¡­ maybe I already did? I just know¡­ I just know I wanted to be near him, beside him."


    He looked off to the side, doing his best to not stare at the painter that made his heart flip and stutter like his husband.


    ''Are you him, Ah Li?''


    "I know what was asked of me and I know later what was asked of him¡­" Ying Yue continued.


    "What was asked?"


    Ying Yue closed his eyes and his shoulders dropped in sadness. He shook his head and pursed his lips.


    "Too many things, Sect Leader Yang¡­ too many and I was selfish. I forced myself into his home, took his time from his work¡­ I dug a hole in his heart for me."


    He let out a deep sigh and stared off at nothing. He could hear the strokes against the paper. He could hear the fanning of the fan from the young leader.


    "You truly love him¡­" Sect Leader Yang said slowly.


    "Yes, very much, very deeply."


    The time past quietly and the lantern''s candle flickered as the wax melted slowly. After a while, the strokes were done and the young leader in green was pleased. Ying Yue wrapped himself up and stood, looking at the painting of him.


    He flushed seeing how he was portrayed.


    "Quite lovely, beautiful as always my painter! I will go show to the others. They shall follow your strokes because I know I cannot keep you here long. Thank you Heaven''s Chosen!"


    The young leader rushed out of the door skipping with happiness. Ying Yue turned to stare at the painter whose top half was covered with a mask. The man looked at him and he could not make out the eyes from the covering, but saw the thin lips... lips that looked very familiar.


    "Sir Painter¡­ do you know Sir Ghost?"

 Chapter 114 - I Am Already Here

    Fingers touched his shoulder and tapped as if to a music. Each tap felt like a knock against his heart, as if asking to be let in. Thin lips smiled softly at him like a sigh. Ying Yue opened his mouth to speak, but he did not know what to say. None of his thoughts seemed to want answers due to the touch against his shoulder.


    Was the painter putting him under a spell?


    A loud sound screeched into the air, illuminating the sky with glowing purple. He quickly grabbed the sword at his side and was able to step before the painter, before the demon shot through the wall. It pushed against the sword in his hands, where he had dropped the barrier charm on the floor. It covered them in protection, but the demon was large and pushed harder, causing him to skid back.


    Guards and warriors entered the room, weapons pointed at the demon. The large black shadow screeched and shot against the sides, catching the men and women in it. Their screams made Ying Yue alert and he sent out his spiritual energy with his qi, forcing the shadow back.


    The black shadow covered the room, enveloping it into darkness. Ying Yue quickly illuminated the thin black sword in his hand, running his fingers up toward the tip. He reached back and did not feel anyone.


    Jaws clenched and brows furrowed in worry, he could hear people screaming and getting hurt. He stabbed the sword on the ground and spread his aura, illuminating the entire room. The demon screeched loudly and he saw the center of the demon, two pink rounds conjoined together.


    "Sword!"


    He called out running to the pink blobs and he swung to strike it, but the painter had stepped before it suddenly. Unable to stop in time, he watched as his blade strike downward. The painter had leaned his head back enough to have the sharp metal banged onto the intricate mask.


    Pulling back, he panted blinking widely at the man.


    There was a crack that sounded as the ceramic mask slowly broke. He glanced at the demon who was now whimpering. Ying Yue quickly went to the pink blobs and found the blood on his face fall.


    Inside of the pink lining were conjoined twins.


    His fingers trembled and he dropped his sword, clanking against the floor. He was about to strike babies¡­ children¡­


    He felt bile coming up his throat, but a hand held his wrist, calming him with coldness. He glanced at the painter holding his mask in place, as his palm was placed on the babies. He closed his eyes and sent them back to the Netherworld, but it did not stop the guilt he was feeling.


    He was trembling and he didn''t realize he was shaking, until he felt arms around him. He could hear the guards and warriors mourning for their friends. He could hear Sect Leader Yang speaking up as people were sent to the healers. The room was a broken mess and he heard the young leader spoke to the painter, but his ears felt like they were ringing. His mind muddled, unfocused, but there were words floating through.


    He was turned and pushed against warmth and soft fabric. A few more mumble sounding words exchanged and he could hear footsteps walking away. He pushed off the warmth and shook his head, trying to clear his groggy mind. Rubbing his face with his palm, he looked around blinking for clarity.


    After a moment, he looked over at the concerned eyes of the young leader.


    "Forgive me, Sect Leader Yang. I was unable to save them."


    "You fought your best," the man in light green fanned him and he could feel the coolness of his perspiration against his warm skin, "Are you alright? Please rest, Heaven''s Chosen."


    Ying Yue nodded, accepting the offer. He was led to a room and he sat on the bed, feeling his robe tighter against his skin. His breathing was coming out in small pants and he swallowed the saliva down his scratchy throat.


    "Here, Chosen One, drink this."


    He nodded and drank the soup. Swallowing the warm liquid down, he sighed and smiled over at the young leader.


    "I thank you, Sect Leader Yang."


    "Please rest well. If you need anything, please ask. I will have a guard at your door."


    "I should help rebuild-"


    "No. You stay here."


    The man walked out and closed the door behind him. Dizziness returned to the blonde and he groaned softly. He laid down on his side, panting and groaning. He tried to breath, to calm himself. In and out, in and out. He did not know how long he focused on doing something as easy as breathing, but he missed the door opening and closing.


    He felt a hand on his shoulder, and he flinched away, grabbing the wrist.


    "Ah Yue."


    Golden eyes widened in a haze and his panting got worse. His fingers trembled against the wrist in his hand.


    "What did you call me?" He murmured staring into moonlit eyes.


    "Ah Yue," the man whispered and moved in closer. His blurry eyes saw him clearly now. Eyes of silver and kissable thin lips like he remembered, but there were scars on once perfect skin. At least... it looked like there were.


    "I miss you, my love."


    "Is it truly you?"


    He felt fingers moved down his temple and cupped his cheek. Thumb pad ran over his skin as mouth hovered over his. He let out a moan feeling incredibly aroused from the touch.


    "You gave me my name, Ah Yue," he heard a soft laugh puffing across his lips, "¡­ and I gave you yours."


    He wrapped his arms around the man and couldn''t help crying. It was him. The smell of plum blossoms entered his nose and he relaxed into the embrace. He felt kisses at his temple to his eyes, nose, then lips.


    Wang Li.


    It was his husband''s kisses, his tongue, his fingers gliding down his back and up his thigh. Ying Yue moaned and gasped, as he panted in whimpers. Legs wrapped around waist, hands gliding over his heated skin, back arching, and teeth grazing.


    He felt fingers running through his sweat soaked hair, pushing strands away from his face.


    "Ah Li¡­" he whispered with half lidded eyes, "I missed you."


    "I know."


    Lips kissed him again and he smiled.


    "Is this a dream? Will you be gone when I wake up?"


    He held onto his lover tighter to him and wrapped his leg over his husband''s hip.


    "Promise me¡­ promise me you will still find me when you are ready."


    "Ah Yue," he closed his golden eyes relishing in the sound of baritone voice, "I am already here."

 Chapter 115 - Not Enough

    His husband kissed him deeply and he moaned into it, pulling his lover closer as if he could tattoo the raven-haired man on him.


    Sweaty, too sweaty. Ying Yue pulled away with his legs still locked and undressed his robes, peeling it off his drenched skin.


    Ying Yue let out a loud groan when calloused hands left light scratches up his stomach to his nubs. His mouth was sucked and lips bruised as kisses deepened so far, he felt it in his core.


    "Ah!"


    He cried out when a hand wrapped around his hard cock, leaking with precum with just the thought of his lover. He heard the chuckle from Wang Li against his ear as large palm stroke him so painfully slow. Whimpering for more, Ying Yue moved his hips up eagerly.


    "Any louder and the guard will enter, my beloved wife. Is that what you wish for?"


    Moaning as the hand pumped him faster and tighter. His back arched and his nails dug into solid shoulders. The texture of his lover''s hand, his voice, his smell, everything about Wang Li brought Ying Yue over the edge. He came with his pelvis opened wider and his nipples perked up harder.


    "Ah Li, show me, show me how much you missed me, please."


    Ying Yue begged and pleaded desperately with his arms wrapped behind his lover''s neck. He smashed his bruised lips against Wang Li wanting more, so much more.


    ''Everything.''


    A cum covered finger pressed into his entrance and he bit his lips groaning. He stared half lidded into lustful silver eyes and that made his hips thrust deeper into the finger, asking for more.


    His lover answered.


    Another finger joined and he panted open mouthed as he continued to make lewd noises. He licked his lips and hiked his hips higher, keeping his eyes on his lover''s.


    "Not enough, my love. I need you."


    "Mm, more? Two fingers are not enough?"


    Ying Yue gasped as another finger pushed deeper into him, keeping his lover''s face near so it was all he saw. His hips rolled and twerked pushing into the thick fingers inside him. He felt so hot and his cure was his lover, his beautiful husband.


    "Even if you had five fingers inside me, my love, it will not be enough."


    He inhaled sharply as he felt more fingers enter him and he kissed his lover wetly and felt teeth grip onto his lips. He forced himself to keep his hazy eyes on his husband as a hand gripped at his hip. He let out a low moan feeling fingers curled into his skin and the ones inside him thrusted effectively, hitting his bundle of nerves.


    "Ah Li! Please! Inside, inside!" He panted out clutching tightly to Wang Li as his lower half bounced into thick fingers.


    "My dear wife, the sounds you make," Wang Li groaned and just pressed his fingers to the knuckles, his entire fist almost sucked into the blonde''s awaiting hole.


    "Mm, yes, uh, ah," Ying Yue felt stretched and yet, he wanted, needed his husband in him, to fill-


    "Want me to make you full, baby?" That deep lust filled voice made arousal pooled through his entire body, causing his sweat soaked skin to flush deeply.


    "Yes."


    "As you wish, my love."


    Wang Li whispered and then Ying Yue felt so empty. The fingers in him was pulled away and he made a fearful sound as he tried to follow it. His lover laughed and captured his lips. Tongue entered his mouth and he relaxed into the feel of the kiss, before he pulled away to moan loudly with his back arching like a bow.


    His legs trembled like a memory of how large his lover was, how good and full he felt.


    "Ah Yue," Wang Li breathed against his face and he fluttered his golden lashes, "I will show you how much I''ve missed you, my love."


    He nodded and then¡­ pounding, twisting, thrusting of his lover''s cock inside him made his eyes roll back and drools slip out of the corners of his opened mouth. In and out the hard shaft went, grinding into him like it belonged inside him. He barely opened his eyes to watch how lovely his husband looked flushed with arousal. Silver eyes looked into his and he shivered with need.


    ''More, more.''


    He sucked his king''s lips and thrusted his hips however he could, earning a groan to be sucked into him. He wanted to hear that sound more, always, needing it like water.


    A quick hard thrust had his panting stuttered and Ying Yue pressed his chest closer to his husband. Another cause his hips to roll in circles, forwards, and backwards. Wang Li did it over and over and made sure he knew who his ass belonged to.


    "Yours," Ying Yue breathed out as he trembled and clutch to his lover''s skin, "Ah, yours. Please, Ah Li, ah."


    Fingers wrapped around his hard member and he came spurting out like a broken faucet. His scream of climax was covered by his king''s palm over his mouth. When he came back from his high, he could feel the cum inside him and he sighed happily.


    Such a cure his husband was for him.


    "Shh," his lover hushed softly, "You are too loud, dear wife."


    He groaned running his nails down his lover''s chest, earning a press of hips to his. His stuttered gasps were captured by demanding lips. His legs were thrown over strong shoulders and his hands were moved to cross above his head.


    "Are you this willing with others, my love?" Wang Li nibbled down to his ear to breath out huskily, "To be filled."


    Hips thrusted and his ass bounced against his lover''s thighs.


    "Only¡­ only you, husband. Ah¡­"


    "How do you know if I am truly your husband? I could be a dream or a demon or a ghost or even Sect Leader Yang."


    Each option was emphasized with a hard thrust leaving Ying Yue twisting with the need to touch, but his lover''s hands held his wrist in place. His legs were still trembling, but he tightened them as if to pull the man closer to him. He was sweaty, hot, and sticky but he just wanted his husband against him, on him, in him more.


    "I will never forget how you feel, my husband," he breathed as lips neared his, "No one else can complete me like you."


    He heard the soft laugh and felt the press of lips, as tongue danced in his mouth. Gently his tongue caressed the other, folding like two wings shading from the sun. He felt a prick at his neck and he blinked with furrowed brows.


    "Sleep, my love."


    "I don''t want to¡­ I want¡­ I want more¡­" he murmured sleep riddened with heavy sleepy eyes.


    "I will be here, beloved," A kiss was placed on his, "¡­ and I will give you more."


    "Promise¡­" he whispered before sleep took over him like a welcoming blanket.


    When he came to, he blinked in alertness and found he was cleaned, dressed, and alone.

 Chapter 116 - No One Else Holds My Heart

    His heart dropped and he closed his eyes. Was it¡­ a dream that he had? It was so vivid and he felt-


    He bit his lips remembered the touches of fingertips gliding over his skin, the lips on his, the yearning for his lover to fill him, the sounds he made-


    He flushed deeply over his freckles to his ears. If it was a dream, it was the best one he ever had.


    Before he was brought back to his husband from a different world, he did not dare do more than kiss him in his dreams. Now, all he wanted was to be wrapped in Wang Li''s arms and to make him feel good, to give his husband the pleasure of life and love.


    He closed his golden eyes and ran fingers through his hair. Ying Yue stayed that way for a moment, going through his pasts to present. Taking a deep breath, he exhaled and got up. Looking over at the opened window, he was certain it was closed when Sect Leader Yang left. Ying Yue walked to the window and he was about to close it when he heard voices.


    "Why is the painter still here?"


    "He said he was waiting for someone."


    "But¡­ tell him to wait outside of the palace!"


    "He-"


    "He just left."


    "Thank goodness! Did he say where?"


    "No, sir."


    Ying Yue could not see who was speaking and he does not recognize the voices, but...


    ''That man''s voice sounds familiar¡­ wait¡­ Ying Yue! You pride yourself in your memory, yet you cannot remember voices!'' He frowned and leaned over the window to see if he could catch the view of the speakers, but he was unable to. Letting out a sigh, he leaned back and frowned.


    ''Was there a reason they wanted the painter to leave?'' He remembered Sect Leader Yang was so happy to see the painter.


    ''Maybe they are the other painters?'' He thought wondering if that was the reason why there was animosity, ''To have to copy the work of another artist may be demeaning to them.''


    There was a knock at his door and he saw the painter. He stared at him and the masked man did the same. His eyes trailed down the blue robe and he found his heartbeat quicken. Ying Yue looked back up and swallowed down the saliva that had gathered in his throat. This man, this painter... Everything in him was screaming like the roar in his heart.


    Thin lips unhidden and tall, graceful, so much like his husband.


    ''Maybe I... Maybe I missed him too much that I see him everywhere. Yet...''


    "I heard¡­ you left, Sir Painter¡­"


    The man in greenish blue smiled at him and walked toward him in long steps. His fingers were pulled up to be kissed and he gasped sharply. Shocked by the sudden intimacy, Ying Yue''s mind jumbled with confusion. He tried to pull his hand away, but the man gripped it. Ying Yue was about to strike him, push him, anything to remove this man from touching him, but he froze when his palm touched the mask on the painter''s face.


    "I have a husband," he stated quietly and the man smiled, nodding like he already knew.


    ''This¡­ was familiar¡­ it felt like when he was in the cavern with-''


    "Sir Ghost?"


    The painter moved his hand to kiss along the pulse point of his wrist to his fingers, and Ying Yue flushed stuttering. He placed a hand on the man''s chest, hoping to stop the man from turning him into a red tomato.


    "S¡­ stop! I have a husband. I do not want to hurt you, but if you continue¡­"


    Teeth grazed down the meat of his hand and his memories of last night flooded his mind.


    ["Ah! Ah Li, mmph."


    He gasped as teeth lightly nipped the sensitive side of his thigh, moving with tongue to his pelvis. He arched and bit his hand, as his husband continued to tease him in pleasurable ways. Fingers danced lightly over his clenching and unclenching stomach. Nails dragged lightly over his hips, thighs, and then his legs were spread further apart.


    "Ugh, mmm, husband," Ying Yue panted wanting, needing, everything from Wang Li. He felt delirious and craved his lover''s touch more than he did before. Squirming and twitching against calloused palms and hot tongue, the platinum blonde was on the brink of frustrated tears and relief.


    "You still taste delicious, my love."


    "Only you," he panted out in a whisper.


    "Hm?"


    He did not finish his words because he was in bliss after that. Climaxing and yearning for lips, tongue, and hands all over him were playing in his mind on repeat. His eyes barely was able to stay opened enough to see his lover''s silver eyes watching him. Being touched by his husband after so long, so many moons, only made him crave his lover even more.


    So very desperate he was.]


    ''It¡­ wasn''t a dream. Ah Li¡­''


    He moved the hand on the chest to the mask and the painter stopped and waited. He searched the cloth covered lids and his fingers clenched and unclenched. Biting his bottom lip, he looked away for a moment.


    ''If this was Wang Li...''


    Taking a deep breath, he steadied himself and looked at the face of the painter''s.


    "Are you still in fear, Sir Ghost?"


    The man nodded.


    "I don''t think I told you, Sir Ghost, I can help you. My husband is the Ghost King: beautiful, gentle, and kind. If he were a ghost¡­ I think that is fitting for his title, don''t you?"


    He smiled and he felt hands on his face, as the man laughed softly.


    ''Ah, it is you, my husband. I knew it,'' he smiled relishing in the sound of his lover''s laugh puffing against his face.


    "Ah Yue."


    "Ah Li."


    "Why do you still wish to-"


    "Only you¡­ I belong to only you, my husband."


    The painter searched his face before they kissed, soft like the petal of a blossom against one''s lips, soft like the very first time they tried. He smiled and his fingers interlocked with his lover''s. Finally, Wang Li was here with him once more.


    Reunited, Ying Yue could feel his heart dance and his mind calmed. This was his husband, the man he loved dearly, the only one to ever make him feel this way.


    He followed Sir Painter, Sir Ghost, whatever name his husband wanted to take.


    He said his goodbyes to a surprised Sect Leader Yang who stared at their hands, before they left the palace. The villagers seemed to be staring, no longer bowing to him as he went.


    Ying Yue only held onto his lover''s hand tighter, walking out of the palace down to the roads.


    They were strolling and he wasn''t sure where they were going, but it didn''t bother him. Tugging onto his hold, the man in the mask paused and looked over at him. He smiled and his lover returned it.


    "Are you truly here? This is not a dream again?"


    The man in blue reached for his hands to place on the mask. Ying Yue took a moment to gather his wits, before pulling it off the painter. He saw the silver of his husband''s eyes, the mark of the demon clan under the left eye, but there were other marks on once scarless face. He reached up and moved his fingers over the scars, memorizing every healing wound, deep and shallow.


    During his haze of pleasure, he missed the marks on his lover''s skin, how cold the man was, and what was worse¡­


    "Ah Li¡­"


    Wang Li took the mask back to tuck away, then silver eyes watched him with softened eyes.


    "Forgive me, my wife, for making you wait so long. I have rushed what I could to be with you," the man with raven hair placed his forehead against his, "How I truly missed you."


    He felt fingers move down from his cheeks to his neck, and felt a finger wrote against his skin.


    ''Do you truly still want me, even if I am this way?''


    "Yes, always, Wang Li. No one else could have my heart."


    Wang Li hummed as his fingers touched his face lightly, like an artist admiring their art. Ying Yue smiled relaxed and lovingly at his lover. His heart seemed to drank in every touch, every breathe, and every minute pulse of his husband''s.


    "Yet you were interested in Sir Ghost and Sir Painter."


    "I¡­" he flushed with his eyes widened slightly, "¡­ You are them."


    "You didn''t know previously."


    "I..." he felt his cheeks warmed.


    "If either one of them were to be there in the room with you while you were begging to be touched, you would let them, wouldn''t you?"


    "Wha-?! No! Ah Li! I already told you I belonged to you."


    "You wouldn''t have been able to, Ying Yue. You were poisoned and begging."


    Thumb swiped over his lips, dragging them as it went and he puffed out heatedly.


    "Poisoned?"


    "Mm," His lover nodded and groped his ass, pressing him against the cold body of his husband. He bit his bottom lip as he looked up under his lashes. Wang Li breathed against his face and he soaked in it like one in darkness would welcome the sun.


    "Do not worry, dear wife. I will take good care of you."

 Chapter 117 - I Need Answers

    "But-" His mouth was captured and he moaned into the kiss as hands massaged his ass. When they pulled apart, Ying Yue was dizzy with wet lips.


    "Do you feel better, my love?"


    "Huh?" He sounded dazed and wanting those deadly lips on his once more.


    "Do you prefer Sir Painter or Sir Ghost to cure you instead?"


    "You¡­" Ying Yue shook himself out of the haze of arousal and frowned, "I¡­ their both you Wang Li. I¡­ I knew there was something about both of them that I¡­ they reminded me of you."


    "Anyone who remind you of me, you will have feelings for?"


    "Wang Li," he sighed, "It wasn''t that I had feelings in that way for them because they remind me of you. I felt the need to¡­ care for them. Sir Ghost¡­ he only spoke by writing against me and he seemed so sad. Sir Painter¡­ there was an aura around him that made me¡­ made me want to know more about him."


    He held his husband closer; he searched moonlit eyes and placed his free hand on his husband''s chest. He closed his eyes and he let out a deep breath. He opened his eyes staring at his lover''s chest, once opened to reveal smooth chest was now tightened to the neck. He moved the hand down to wrap around such cold body.


    "Even now, I wish to comfort you, but you still leave me in the dark."


    "You will find out, Ah Yue," Wang Li cupped the back of his head and he felt light scratches to his scalp.


    "You keep playing games, Ah Li¡­ When will you stop?"


    "You used to like games."


    "But your games¡­ they hurt me."


    Wang Li tensed and pushed him off, but Ying Yue held tighter.


    "I can''t play a game where I do not know the ending¡­ I cannot do it. It isn''t worth it."


    He heard the sigh vibrate through his lover''s chest and he felt arms wrapped around him. He didn''t realize how tense with anxiety he was until his muscles relaxed. Hands soothed him and the blonde nuzzled closer.


    "Ah Yue," his husband leaned down and he looked into his lover''s cloudy eyes, "You are worth it."


    "I don''t understand!" He cried smacking his forehead against his lover''s chest, "Why is it gone? How was that worth it?! I don''t approve. I don''t, Ah Li. I don''t."


    He cried and cried with his entire chest rumbling like thunder against his ribcage. Fingers clenched against the teal colored robe, holding onto it like an anchor in the raging sea. Wang Li ran his fingers soothingly through his hair and he stuttered out a wet gasp, trying to breath calmly.


    "You still need rest, Ah Yue."


    "No, I need answers, Ah Li."


    Hands cupped his cheeks and lips pressed against his. Wang Li then kissed his forehead and thumbed his tears away.


    "I know, my love. Come, let us spend the night together and I will tell you what you wish to know."


    "The truth, Ah Li, please."


    "I have never lied to you."


    "But you don''t answer either."


    "Whatever you wish, my wife. I will answer it all."


    "No distractions."


    "Distractions?"


    "You know what I mean¡­" Ying Yue flushed and bit his lips, "Touching me¡­"


    Wang Li laughed and kissed his lips once more. He smiled seeing the upward curl on his lover''s lips. The raven head nodded and kissed his temple. Then his mind halted as he was swept up off his feet into the arms of his husband. Blushing, he blinked widely at his lover.


    "Hm, have you gained weight, wife?"


    "What?!" Ying Yue flushed a different way in shock and anger as he huffed. He tried to wiggle out of the hold, but Wang Li pulled him closer to bite his ear.


    "Are you with child and have not told me?" Wang Li questioned deeply in the tone that made his penis twitch, "How you would look carrying my child¡­ I would never let you leave home."


    "Ah Li!" He was hot and red, smacking his lover''s shoulder as he bit his lip, "S¡­ Stop speaking like that. I am not with child."


    "But you want to," the hot breath against his ear made him grip the cerulean robe. He inhaled sharply and his eyes fluttered, "Don''t you, baby."


    He did not reply, but he didn''t need to because his husband always knew how to read him easily. Turning his face to capture hot mouth, he bit the raven haired man''s lips. Silver eyes twinkled with mischief as the arm under his knees moved to straddle in between his legs. He inhaled sharply as he was righted, clinging to pull himself up.


    "Ah, Ah Li!" Ying Yue flushed deeper than a blazing fire, "We, we are outside and... ah!"


    His lover pressed his arm up and he was lifted onto his toes.


    "You win! You win!"


    He stuttered as his arousal pool and his manhood twitched. Wang Li grinned and kissed his lips slowly before removing the arm. His knees closed in toward one another as if to hide his interest for his husband''s touch. A kiss to his forehead made him loosen his grip on his king''s shoulders. The silver eyed man pulled away and smiled.


    The blonde made a confused sound when Wang Li turned around and bent down.


    "Ah Li?"


    "I wish to carry you, my wife."


    "Carry me?" His ears reddened, "I¡­ I don''t need to be carried."


    "I have not been a good husband, my love. Let me carry you, unless you want me to carry you another way?"


    He saw the smirk on his lover''s face and he wasn''t sure what Wang Li was thinking, but he knew his husband was tricky with his words.


    For example, what just occurred earlier.


    Laughing softly, he shook his head and wrapped his arms around his lover''s neck and his legs around Wang Li''s waist from behind. He tucked his face against the curve of his husband''s, hiding the flush across his freckled cheeks.


    Wang Li tucked his forearm underneath his knees, as his husband stood up. He couldn''t fight the grin spreading across his face. He closed his eyes and remembered a time when they would play around. Wang Li was faster than him, but he always found a way to jump onto the raven head''s back.


    ["You look nice in red, Ah Yue," Wang Li complimented and he turned to him with a smile.


    "Not as good as you, Ah Li," he admitted with a laugh.


    "Hm you''re right," the raven-haired male nodded and Ying Yue pushed him gently with his tongue stuck out. He soon felt a pinch on his waist, causing him to yelp. Laughing aloud, he tried to reach for Wang Li, only to have the man avoid his reaches. Determined to get back at his friend, he continued reaching for the raven-haired male.


    Grinning, he quickly jumped up and caught Wang Li ''s back as he closed his legs around his waist.


    "Gotcha!" He laughed and he felt his friend laughing from the vibration against his chest.


    "Yes, you have."]


    He let out a giggle realizing his husband probably let himself be caught.


    ''Ah Li¡­ I may have your heart, but your mind I do not. I do not know what you think of since we met¡­ Will I ever know?''


    He closed his golden eyes and nuzzled his nose to be captured by the smell that he loved, the smell of his lover. Hair so soft like¡­


    His eyes shot opened.


    "Snow!"


    His husband winced from his shout and he apologized wrapping his arms to block his lover''s head, patting soothingly.


    "I forgot about Snow. He is still in the palace. I am a terrible owner."


    He attempted to get down from his lover''s back, but Wang Li held on and shook his head with a sigh.


    "Snow is fine. Whistle for him."


    "Oh, right," he chuckled and closed his eyes. Reaching and calling for his spiritual energy to flow to his lips, he whistled. The sound went into the air and flew toward the palace doors, through openings and windows to the snow leopard.


    The kitten''s ears perked up and he picked up the baked fish into his mouth. The baby kitten bounded out of the palace with no servants or villagers stopping him.


    When his big blue eyes saw his masters, he meowed pleased and happy. The baked fish forgotten, he ran over to his master he had not seen for many moons. He jumped and was caught by his master. He licked and licked, but his master kept laughing.


    "Snow, that is enough."


    The snow leopard purred as Wang Li ran his fingers through his fur.


    "I have missed you, my friend."


    "Purr."


    "Why were you small?"


    The cat looked over at the blonde and Ying Yue let out a giggle.


    "The villagers were scared of Snow, Ah Li. I am sad he is no longer a kitten, but I am glad he is back to normal."


    "Come Snow, let us go rest."


    Ying Yue snuggled closer to the cold back, trying to warm it up. Placing a hand over his husband''s chest, he rubbed it gently, as if he could call back what was once there.

 Chapter 118 - Take Your Time

    They arrived at the small shack at the edge of the West Sector where a small lake travelled. The one where he first met Sir Ghost, who was actually his husband.


    Ying Yue was placed down onto the ground and watched as his lover opened the door. He smiled and walked in to see his old items placed neatly around the small room. He went to see some of the arts on the wall and he breathed out a smile.


    Arms wrapped around from his back and he leaned into the touch.


    "Do you like them?"


    "Yes."


    "I have more."


    "Oh, you do?"


    "They are of you in¡­ positions, my love," Wang Li laughed and whispered.


    "Wang Li," he flushed deeply and his lover kissed his cheek and pulled away.


    "Remember you made a book teaching many how to gain and keep a lover," his king whispered deeply into his ear and he shivered.


    A hand moved up his chest and the other moved lower to his pelvis. He grabbed those sneaky hands and stuck out his bottom lip at his husband. He gained a grin and a suck to his bottom lip that made his heart burst with arousal.


    "Forgive me, my love. We have been apart for far too long."


    "Yes," he squeezed the silver eyed male''s hands before forcing himself to turn around to face his lover, "Too long."


    Wang Li smiled softly at him and pressed light kisses all over his face before deepening the kiss to his plumped lips. Tilting his head up and to the side, he hummed pleased as their tongues danced like lovers. A thumb ran up and down his hip bone as they pulled away just to breathe into one another.


    "Should we eat first before we speak, Ah Yue?"


    "You make me crazy then say something like that so easily," the blonde slapped his chest lightly.


    "If you want distraction, then¡­"


    Wang Li quirked his dark brow and Ying Yue laughed shaking his head. Exhaling a happy sigh, he pulled away.


    Ying Yue smiled and looked around to not see any vegetables or meat, not even rice. Furrowed brows and a frown, he looked over at Wang Li who lifted the cover of a crate. He found himself laughing and he couldn''t help the tears falling off his eyes.


    Trying to catch his breath, he looked over to see his husband with a pastry in his mouth, looking innocently at him.


    He fell to the floor laughing loudly.


    "Ah¡­ Ah Li," he laughed in between, "Is that¡­ do you only have sweets in that box?"


    "Yes."


    Ying Yue shook his head and stood up giggling softly. He walked over to his husband and grabbed his hand.


    "Ah Li, you should have told me you do not have anything besides sweets. We could have bought some food on our way here."


    "But this is food."


    ''You are such a child,'' he thought and kissed his lover, tasting the sugar on thin lips.


    "There is a lake nearby, my husband. Let us go fish¡­" he grinned, "I bet I could catch a fish before you."


    "Are you sure you wish to challenge me, my love?"


    Ying Yue made a thinking sound, before rushing out of the door. He laughed as Snow followed him happily to the lake. Wang Li was not far behind and he lifted his pants over his calves. Stepping slowly into the water, he looked around.


    ''Wow, friendly fishes,'' he thought seeing the different size of fishes swarming his feet.


    "Snow, if you catch 3 fishes, I will let you push Wang Li into the water."


    He whispered to see the big cat brighten and looked into the water.


    He moved his golden eyes to glance at his husband, who had undressed into his under robe. He saw him reach down and a grin spread across his face, making Ying Yue smile. Wang Li held up the fish and looked smugly at him, but the fish smacked his face with its tail and escaped back into the water.


    Ying Yue covered his mouth to stop his laughter, afraid the fishes would run away.


    He felt fishes near his feet and he glanced down. Reaching down slowly, he caught a small fish in his hands. When he lifted his hands up, the fish jumped and he rushed to catch it, but it escaped. He heard the laughter from his husband and he found himself laughing along.


    They were far enough that their movements would not deter the fishes for the other, but Ying Yue couldn''t help the way his heart beat lovingly for his husband. Silver eyes caught his and he grinned as his heart jumped with excitement. Wang Li sent him a soft smile and they just stared at each other from where they were.


    The longer his lover stared, the more flustered Ying Yue felt with the itching of need to be near the man who held his heart.


    ''So perfect,'' Ying Yue bit his bottom lip, ''Maybe¡­ maybe I''ll do what Sheng Shui offered¡­''


    A nudge at his side made him look over at the wet cat. Snow opened his mouth and 3 fishes fell out onto the ground. The blonde blinked at the three flapping fishes on the ground and saw the twinkle in blue eyes. He laughed and nodded, earning a pleased sound from his pet.


    Snow panted happily and bounced over to Wang Li, before pouncing onto his unexpected master.


    Ying Yue watched as the big cat brought his lover into the water.


    When Wang Li got up, he was soaking from head to toe. He laughed and made sure to swipe the fishes into his outer robe to tie up. He slipped into his sandals and headed to the shack, sticking his tongue out at his husband. He gathered sticks and wood around the shack and lake, in order to make a fire.


    When he arrived at the small temple that ended up being Wang Li''s home, he placed the bundle down and gathered the sticks to overlay one another.


    Starting a fire, he could hear the sloshing of wet sandals near him and he laughed softly. He gasped when he felt the wet robe draped over him, making him shiver from the cold. He quickly grabbed it off him and looked at his lover, bare chested before the fire.


    Wet droplets trailed down the curve of cervices and scars. His golden eyes followed to the wet bottoms clung to skin that made him itch to touch. The fire illuminated how beautiful his husband was.


    "Careful, my wife. Look at me longer and I will eat you."


    He flushed deeply as his freckles hid beneath the redness. Ying Yue went to hung the robe over the door and saw Snow walking toward him with wet fur.


    "Snow¡­ don''t-"


    The big cat shook his coat, spreading water all around him. He sighed and shook his arms so the excess of water would thin. Snow stared at him innocently and he narrowed his eyes with pursed lips.


    "Snow, you are just as sneaky as your master."


    The big cat licked his face and he laughed patting the big head. Opening the bundle, he began cooking the fishes over the fire. Ying Yue went to sit beside his lover and his lips tingled to touch the chest, arms, shoulders, neck-


    He inwardly shook his head.


    "Ah Li, are you warming up?"


    "The water is drying, yes."


    "Ah Li¡­ I have so many questions¡­ I don''t know where to begin."


    Cold fingers traced his face and traveled down his neck. He shivered and bit his lips, sending interested eyes over at his husband. He was truly addicted to Wang Li.


    "Take your time, my love. I am here."


    He smiled at Wang Li and grabbed those fingers that intoxicated him. He cleared his throat and tried to think about what he wanted to ask. Looking at the hand in his, he rubbed it in between his hands as if he could warm it with heat.


    "When I left¡­ what happened?"


    He saw silver eyes looked at him and the fire danced across his lover''s face.


    "Which time?"


    He squeezed his husband''s hand.


    He looked down feeling guilt eating him up once more. The other soul within him tried to reassure him, but Ying Yue was stubborn. It was his fault. He should have stayed and found a way. He should have asked for help. He should have-


    Fingers wrapped around his chin and lifted. Catching sad longing eyes, his heart trembled.


    "None of this was your doing, Ah Yue. You left because of what the Heavens had imposed on us. I know you would stay if you could. You tell me that enough."


    He smiled and kissed Wang Li. Another kiss and another.


    "Each time you left, I felt a hollow within my chest. What I said to you was true, Ah Yue. You own my heart. It belongs to only you."


    "And mine is yours, Ah Li."


    Wang Li smiled and pecked his lips, watching him for a moment, before pulling away to look at the fire.


    "When you left the first time, I listened to no one, not my family or my aunt. The only one I listened to was Ye Wu."


    "He¡­ he returned to you?"


    "Yes. The darkness in me, my love, was too much for me to bear."

 Chapter 119 - Why Are You Still Shy?

    Ying Yue closed his eyes and he bit the inside of his cheeks to stop himself from crying.


    "I couldn''t control myself. I failed everyone. I killed you."


    Ying Yue kissed his lover''s shoulder and flipped the fishes as Snow laid listening.


    "I should have-"


    "When you died, Ying Yue, it was as if things were clear of what I had done. There will be no forgiveness I should receive and no amount of atonement I could make to rewrite my wrongs."


    "Everyone deserves forgiveness, Ah Li," he whispered and rubbed his thumb over cold skin.


    There were more questions he wanted Wang Li to answer, but Ying Yue was placing the pieces of what occurred when he left his husband alone. None of it ease his guilt and regret of his decisions.


    "How did I return¡­ I was¡­ in a different world before I returned."


    "Were you happy there?"


    "I... no. I am happy when I sleep because I dreamt of you. I am happier here with you, my husband."


    Silver eyes turned to him and he smiled adoringly. It was true. He loves his husband no matter which life he lived, whether it was in dreams or reality. Wang Li was his world.


    "I dreamt of you, Ah Li. Never could recognize you or hear your voice and yet, I fell in love with you once more. I do not believe I would ever not love you, my love."


    Silver eyes looked at him with such love that his heart filled with it. Wang Li''s free hand tucked his strands behind his ear and rubbed the tip lightly. Ying Yue smiled with a sigh and enjoyed the touches.


    "I do not deserve you, Ah Yue."


    Cold fingers made him shiver as they slid down to cup his cheek.


    "I know," he teased sticking his tongue out, and laughed when he felt the pinch to his cheek.


    "I am glad you returned to me one more time. The Jade Emperor fulfilled my wish."


    Ying Yue kissed his lover''s palm against his face.


    "Then I should thank our emperor."


    "Hmm. When I knew you had returned, I made a decision."


    "Decision?"


    "To give it away."


    Ying Yue stared at him and tightened his hold even more.


    "That is impossible, Wang Li. You cannot¡­ the Heavens¡­ you would get into trouble!"


    "My dearest wife, they chose wrong. I should never had been chosen."


    "Then we would not have met, Ah Li."


    He looked away with hurt written all over his face, but he felt kisses on his face before they pressed against his lips. Kisses of apologies, kisses of love, kisses of acceptance before the witness of the fire and Snow.


    "Not even the Heavens can keep me away from you, my love."


    "You are always so certain."


    "Of how much I love you? Yes."


    "You still know how to talk¡­"


    He pursed his lips but it spread into an amused smile. More kisses that made him sigh and relaxed in contentment.


    "How¡­ how did you do it? Give away your powers? Did¡­ did the heavens punish you?"


    "There is an amulet I created. My core is within it."


    "Who did you give it to? You could have¡­ you could have given it to me, Ah Li. I would protect it."


    "Ye Wu has it."


    "What?!"


    Ying Yue stared at his lover with wide eyes and parted lips.


    "Rawr," Snow sounded and he quickly pulled the baked fish off the fire. Placing one down for Snow, he handed a stick to Wang Li.


    "Why? He will take advantage of such power, Ah Li. You know how he is. He will send out his people to land like he wanted. Is this why demons are more prevalent now? Ah Li, innocent people had died!"


    He shook his head in anger. He did not understand why his lover would choose to give up his role, his power, his very essence. His mind went back to those guards who had died and Sect Leader Bo who was killed. He felt a hand covered his and he pulled away.


    Biting hard into his baked fish, he stared at the fire burning it behind his eyes.


    "You are upset with me."


    He did not reply.


    "If I did not do so, I would not find you and be with you here. I would be stuck in my village, my palace and not get to see what you see, Ah Yue. My aunt always told me I was stubborn and selfish. I do as I wish. Regardless of others'' feelings¡­ of yours, my love. Forgive me. I only wish to be by your side a little longer."


    His shoulders dropped and he sighed.


    "You gave up your core and now¡­ are you truly a ghost, Wang Li?"


    He turned to look at his husband with eyes of sorrow. The raven-haired male reached for his hand again and Ying Yue let him. Fingers closed in over his, holding his hand tightly.


    "I am with the dead, Ah Yue. Like you said, I am what my name is."


    "Wang Li," He whispered.


    "Ghost King."


    "But¡­ you were never this cold¡­ I¡­ it is my fault once more."


    His face was cupped and he felt lips against his forehead, on the infamous mark that was a gift and a curse.


    "It is not your fault, Ah Yue. I love you. Everything I have done, everything I have given¡­ I will do it again to stand beside you. You''ve sacrificed much, my love, is it not my turn to give?"


    "No. Never."


    Breathing one another''s breaths, forehead to forehead, nose to nose, Ying Yue closed his eyes. Lifting his chin and tilting to the side, he slotted his lips against his husband''s. Delving into the deepness of everything that was Wang Li, he sighed softly.


    "Do you have more questions, my wife?" Wang Li whispered softly.


    "What did you ask of him? Ye Wu wanted your power for a long time and I know you wouldn''t give him it without a clause."


    His lover smiled and pecked his nose.


    "You know me well, my love."


    Ying Yue returned the smile and felt hands run down his arms to hold his hands, rubbing the ring.


    "To not release his siblings."


    "That¡­ that''s it?"


    "I know your brothers and you would be able to control the others, but his siblings may be too strong for any of you alone."


    "Will he follow your instructions, Ah Li? Do you trust him?"


    "Yes. It had been many years since he held the amulet. He had done as I asked."


    Ying Yue nodded, but he was still frowning and reached for his baked fish only to find it missing.


    Looking around, his eyes caught 3 sticks near the big cat. Blue eyes stared at him innocently and he shook his head. Standing, he went to grab the wet robes to lay on the rocks to dry by the flames.


    Wang Li stood up, and he placed his head against the bare chest.


    "I don''t want Ye Wu to hold your core, Ah Li."


    "You wish to retrieve it?"


    "Yes¡­"


    "We can speak with him tomorrow, my wife."


    He pulled back and smiled. Moving his palms down hard cold chest down to the abs, he bit his lips and looked at his lover under light colored lashes.


    "Come, husband. Let me show you how much I missed you."


    Thin lips curled into a smirk and the handsome face tilted to the side.


    "As you wish, my love."


    He stepped backwards as his lover stepped forward. Snow looked at them and turned away, as he continued to enjoy the fire.


    Wang Li closed the door behind him and Ying Yue removed his robe. Silver eyes ran lewdly down his chest to his pelvis and stayed there for a moment. The blonde flushed and covered his private.


    "I have seen, tasted, and touched you there, wife. Why are you still shy?"


    "You look as if you would eat me."


    Wang Li laughed deeply and walked toward him slowly.


    "Oh, I plan to, my love."


    He pressed his penis, feeling it fill from just his lover''s intense attention and words. He was caught into a kiss and his air felt further and further away. He made a muffled noise and held onto his lover''s shoulders for fear his legs couldn''t hold him. Cold hands moved up and down his sides, causing him to shiver and tightened his hold.


    "Mm, Ah Li."


    He breathed out as a palm rubbed in between his legs. Kisses laid down the bare curve of his neck and moved back up to blowing hot air into his ear.


    Fingers moved into his pant and wrapped around his manhood. Precum slicked long fingers as they spread up and down his shaft, making him groan. His husband kissed his lips and he moved his hips against the curled hand pumping him.


    Moaning into the kiss, he ran his nails gently down Wang Li''s scarred tattoo-less chest. He earned a bite to his bottom lip when his fingers ran over his lover''s hard nipples.


    "Ah!" Ying Yue panted out as he arched his back, hips thrusting forward into the fast strokes.


    He tried to keep his eyes opened to watch the arousal in silver eyes, but the pleasure soared down his body and out of his penis. His body trembled and Ying Yue grabbed his lover''s face. He kissed Wang Li as he rode out his orgasm.

 Chapter 120 - Clay Pudding

    Kissing slowly and dirty, his tongue licked and trailed thin lips before licking his own. He smiled coyly with pleasure and moved his eyes down to see the bulge in his husband''s bottom. He kneeled and removed the black bottoms as he went. He flushed deeper seeing the thick cock before him.


    "Lay down, my husband. Let me please you."


    Wang Li hummed with a smile and did as he asked, stepping out of the pant. Ying Yue watched his lover lay on the bamboo mat bare naked and beautiful. He crawled to Wang Li and proceeded to wrap his hand over his lover''s hardness.


    "Mm, my wife," Wang Li breathed out pleased.


    Ying Yue let out a soft smile and licked his lips. He had not¡­ tasted his lover in this way for awhile. Wang Li had always been the one to bring him to pleasure by wrapping his lips around his¡­


    He swallowed and leaned down the give a hesitant lick. He heard a gasp and he turned to his lover, who had gotten up onto his elbows. He looked into silver eyes and gave a confident lick at the slit of precum. He saw the flush on his lover''s ears and he smiled, moving his lips down the shaft and up again. He felt Wang Li''s hips thrust upward and he let out a soft laugh. Kissing and leaving sucks up pulsing veins, he felt more confident and swirled his tongue from bulb to shaft.


    "Oh, my love," Wang Li panted as Ying Yue''s mouth wrapped down his hardness.


    Up and down he went as far as he could before he choked. He pulled back and coughed a bit, as his hands continued to pump. He felt the coolness of a palm against his hot cheek.


    "Ah Yue, you do not need to-"


    He shushed his husband softly and smiled, as he lowered himself once more. Again, he wrapped his mouth around the manhood and sucked. The hand that was on his cheek had ran through his hair and paused on the back of his head. The weight was comforting, like the reassurance that he can go deeper and faster.


    Humming, he could feel his throat constricting, wrapping tighter around his lover''s thick girth.


    "Ah! I am coming, my love."


    Wang Li panted and Ying Yue flushed deeply as he closed his eyes, listening to the deep moans and groans. He could feel the twitching against his mouth before he was being filled with his lover''s cum. He swallowed and moaned as he enjoyed his husband''s sticky substance. Pulling away with a pop, he swallowed down the rest of Wang Li''s spent, licking any that slipped off his lips.


    "Are you warm, my husband?"


    Wang Li panted out a laugh and pulled him over to kiss his lips, tasting himself in hot mouth.


    "Try again, my dearest wife. I am quite cold still and I am beyond aroused."


    "I see. As a good wife, I will continue until you feel comfortable."


    He said softly and pulled off to take his bottoms off. Straddling his lover, he lined his husband''s still hard penis against his hole and sat down. Ying Yue let out a long moan as he slipped his lover down into him. Finally stuffed with his king, the blonde rolled his hips with palms pressed on bare chest. He moved up and down, twerking his hips as his mouth went down to capture a hard nub. He licked it and teased it with his teeth like Wang Li would do to him, earning a thrust of hips against him.


    Ying Yue continued to play with Wang Li''s chest until his legs started to tremble from the thrusting of his lover into him. He held onto the strong shoulders and breathed against his lover''s mouth, hot and wet. He panted and cried out his husband''s name as balls smacked his ass, hard penis penetrated him, and his own cock rubbed against abs.


    "Come, my wife."


    He did. He came as his mind whited out like a burst of light that blinded him into bliss. When he came to, he kissed his lover, tasted every breath of his.


    "Ah!"


    He groaned and whimpered as Wang Li moved faster, thrusted harder, and gripped his hips tighter. His sensitive penis continued to rub against the raven-haired male''s abdomen, making him spurt out anything left in him. Teeth grazed his neck before biting down on his pulse point and Ying Yue gasped with his back curved and eyes rolling back. Thrusts slowed and tongue licked him back into reality.


    He fell against his lover, panting and catching his breath. Hands rubbed up and down his back and he hummed relaxing.


    "How do you feel, my wife?"


    "Clay. Pudding," he mumbled against skin.


    "Clay pudding, does not sound appetizing."


    He felt the laugh against his chest and Ying Yue smiled and leaned up to look at his lover underneath him.


    "What would you prefer, my husband? Plum rice and fatty beef?"


    "Hm, that is delicious but you, my beloved Ah Yue," Wang Li wrapped a hand at the back of his neck and he shivered lightly, "You are far more enticing than any meal I''ve ever had."


    He flushed and he bit his lips looking at his husband under his lashes. He rolled his hips forward and saw the quirk of brow from Wang Li. Ying Yue laughed softly and kissed his lover. Pressing his hand on scarred chest, he closed his eyes.


    "Sheng Shui¡­"


    "Hm? What are you doing here, Ah Yue?"


    His golden eyes met topaz ones and he smiled. Here in his soul, he can see the golden blonde clearly.


    "Would you like to enjoy him firsthand?"


    The golden blonde blinked at him confused.


    "It won''t be long, maybe just for tonight before you are pulled back into my core. I¡­ I have neglected you. I¡­"


    "Do you not remember what you had promised me?" The man smiled, "I will live through you, feel what our king does to you and speak with you and experience all that you are. I accepted, Ah Yue."


    Ying Yue smiled and nodded. He gasped and bit his lips as he felt a hard thrust from Wang Li. He looked over at Sheng Shui who hummed with his eyes closed and a smile.


    "Come, Ah Shui. He would be happy to see you, even if it is for a short time."


    "I don''t think-"


    "I will do my best to make it last as long as I can, until I tire. Go, Ah Shui. Go be loved by him."


    Wang Li flipped them over and continued to roll his hips as his lips sucked his lover''s chest. He could hear his wife panting loudly and hips twerking up against him. Licking up to the collarbone and nibbled against it, he felt fingers dig into his hair.


    Wet lips dragged up long neck and kisses along flushing cheek to lips. When the blonde kissed back, it was desperate and needy. Legs wrapped tightly around his waist and pulled him deeper. He groaned and kissed back with force, tonguing deep inside like his penis.


    He moved quicker and harder, pounding into his wife but his hips stuttered when eyes opened to reveal orange eyes. Slowing down, he stared at the face underneath him and realized what Ying Yue had done.


    "I¡­"


    "Ah Shui."


    "You, you knew it was me?"


    "No, not until you opened your eyes," he cupped his old friend''s face.


    "Ah¡­ this is¡­ awkward¡­"


    "Hm."


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "My king¡­ should you¡­ pull out?"


    "Why?"


    "¡­ because I am not Ah Yue¡­"


    "You and he share a soul. This is a gift for you, Ah Shui, from my wife," Wang Li smiled and kissed his lips softly, "And a gift to me."


    Sheng Shui laughed and laughed as his body shook, until lips quieted him, hands soothed him, and pleasure lifted him.


    Tongue on his skin, dragging saliva and making him burn with lust. The push and pull against his walls felt like burning lightning, etching him like a memory of his longtime crush''s manhood. No other could ever live up to what his king was making him feel.


    He had gone through so many men and women, trying to distract his mind from this beauty and failed each time. Every single time he laid with them, shared their beds, his mind would return to his king. Eyes of silver would replace theirs, baritone voice would replace others¡­ he was obsessed, just like Ying Yue.


    "Ah¡­"


    "Hm? Are you thinking of others, Ah Shui?"


    "How can I when you make me feel so good?" He panted out after his climax, running his fingers up and down lean sides.


    "You make me feel good as well, seam master."


    He threw his head back and laughed before pulling his king down for another kiss.


    "Make me erase all others that I ever laid with for you, my king. Show me how powerful and strong you are."


    He whispered nipping the raven-haired male''s earlobe.


    "Be careful what you ask for, Ah Shui."


    "Is that a challenge?"

 Chapter 121 - Too Young

    Wang Li made a mischievous smile with a glint in his eyes and he was flipped over. The next thing he knew was immense pleasure and his body being played so perfectly by the hands of his king.


    ''Thank you, Ah Yue,'' he thought before he was taken over by desire, ''Thank you.''


    When Ying Yue woke, his body was sore and he could barely move. His eyes slatted opened and looked over at the man beside him. Silver eyes watched him and a slow smile curled on thin lips. He felt fingers sliding up and down his back.


    "Ah Li."


    "Hm?"


    "You¡­ enjoyed yourself?"


    "Very."


    He felt a kiss on his temple and he sighed with a smile.


    "Thank you, my love. Are you feeling well?"


    "Sore and tired."


    Wang Li hummed and reached for a bottle, while Ying Yue closed his eyes. He wasn''t sure if he could even move after the¡­ creative love making Wang Li and Sheng Shui had gone through the night.


    Being inside his soul and feeling every touch on his skin, but... not on his skin was weird and different. This was how Sheng Shui felt and he wondered if his friend imagined himself in his place. For Ying Yue, when he closed his eyes, he could feel every touch, every kiss, everything for Wang Li was heightened. His body was beyond pleased and the way they moved and-


    ''Maybe I should be more¡­ opened. Ah Li seemed excited with what Ah Shui had offered¡­ and... I haven''t done what Sheng Shui suggested...''


    He felt something round slipped into his lips and he made a confused noise. Chewing on it, he opened his eyes to look at the bottle in his lover''s hand. Eyes widening, he accidently swallowed the pink candy into his mouth. He let out a cough and pushed himself onto his elbows.


    "Ah Li! What- Why did you give me that?"


    "It is your brother''s, isn''t it?" Wang Li looked confused as he looked at the bottle filled with pink candies then back to him, "Your brother is known for healing medicine, Ah Yue. Is this not a healing candy?"


    "It''s actually-"


    Pink powder poof into the air and Wang Li''s silver eyes widened. Waving the air to disperse the powder, he stared at the boy before him. His mouth opened and closed and opened again. Rubbing his eyes to make sure he was looking at what he thought, Wang Li heard the boy sighed.


    "It made anyone who ate it small, Ah Li."


    The former Ghost King covered his mouth flushing from how cute his wife was.


    "We gave one to Snow and it took him many moons to return to normal¡­ I hope I am not this small for long."


    ''Is he¡­ pouting?'' Wang Li looked away and paced up and down the room naked.


    "Husband, what are you thinking?"


    "Don''t¡­ you cannot call me husband¡­"


    "Eh? Why? Do you not-"


    "It isn''t that, my love," he looked at the boy to see the blonde looking at him with big golden eyes. He quickly grabbed the robes that were drying last night from outside and shook it off. Rushing in to wrap it around the child, he tightened the robe and saw how long it was.


    "We will need to find you children clothing, Ying Yue."


    "How old do I look, Ah Li?"


    "Too young¡­" Wang Li mumbled and received furrowed brows.


    "Huh?"


    "Six years."


    "Six?" Ying Yue frowned, but all Wang Li saw was a cute little pout on his wife''s child-like face.


    "Mm."


    Snow had entered the shack and headed to them, staring with tilted head at the blonde. He sniffed the child for a moment and made a surprised noise. Blue eyes turned to the raven-haired male, as if asking for an explanation.


    "This is Ying Yue, Snow. Seems he is small now."


    "Seems? I am small," the child crossed his arms and Wang Li couldn''t help gushing at how adorable the blonde looked.


    "Ah Li, how did you even get these?" Ying Yue pointed at the bottle, "My brother had been searching for them."


    "Ah, back at the East Sector. A thief stole them and I caught him."


    "Why didn''t you return it to us?"


    Wang Li tapped his chin and tilted his head thinking.


    "I forgot about it."


    "You forgot¡­"


    "Yes."


    "Ah Li¡­ you had never lied to me before-"


    "It is the truth. I had forgotten because I was busy making sure I was presentable, before I revealed myself."


    "Presentable?"


    "Mm," Wang Li ran his fingers through Snow''s fur as the big cat sat down, "When I gave up my core, I became nothing."


    ''Nothing?!'' Ying Yue''s eyes widened and he quickly moved closer to his lover and held onto his big hand.


    "It took me many moons to gather what you see now. It is the thought that I will see you again, my love, that pushed me forward."


    Wang Li felt the small body shaking against him and he looked down to see the blonde had stuffed his face against his side. He ran his hand down the child''s platinum hair soothingly and spoke quietly.


    "Do I disgust you, Ah Yue?"


    His wife shook his head and looked up at him with watery golden eyes and snot running down his face. Ying Yue sniffed and clenched little fingers into his robe.


    "The scars¡­ is that why you have them? Did it¡­ did it hurt?"


    He wiped the tears off the child''s face and smiled at his lover. Even as a child, his Ying Yue always had such a big heart. Placing a kiss on the mark of the young boy, he breathed out a smile.


    "These scars are memories of what I had to do to be with you, Ah Yue. I shall go through every trial and pain to be with you."


    Ying Yue cried harder and Wang Li held him close to his chest, running his hands up and down the child''s back. They stayed this way until the blonde fell asleep. Wang Li listened to the soft snores of his lover and found himself smiling. He leaned down to kiss the blonde''s head and sighed. Snow was watching him and he nodded.


    "Just a little longer, my friend."


    The big cat meowed and laid his head on his lap. He ran his fingers through the snow leopard''s spotted fur and stared at the corner of the room where a small box, wrapped in red satin laced, sat hidden in the large crate of sweets.


    ''I will sacrifice everything, Ah Yue...''


    The child mumbled unrecognized words and snuggled closer. He smiled and wrapped his arms tighter around the blonde, holding him close as if he could give warmth instead of the freezing cold.


    ''¡­ for you.''


    ==


    Ying Yue yawned as he woke up, stretching his arms above his head. He looked around to see Snow lying on the floor like a statue protecting him. He smiled and stood up from the bamboo mat, heading to the big cat. Patting his pet, blue eyes blinked at him.


    "Snow, were you sleeping with me?"


    The big cat licked his face and he stumbled back, falling on his bum laughing. Snow continued his assault of kisses and he tried avoiding it, but even his hair ended up slicked with saliva. Pushing the cat away, he pushed himself up.


    "I love you too, Snow," Ying Yue wrapped his small arms around his pet, "Where is Wang Li?"


    Snow got on all fours and led him to his shirtless husband. He watched as the sheen of sweat and water slicked pale skin and long black hair twisted up into a bun, held by a red ribbon. He smiled holding up his robe that was too long on him, but it dragged behind him.


    "Ah Li!" He shouted waving, "Were you able to catch any fish?"


    Wang Li glanced over his shoulder before gathering his robe out of the water with the fishes he caught. He bundled his robe and turned to his little lover. He opened it when Ying Yue came closer to show his wife his catch.


    Golden eyes widened and a grin split across plump lips.


    "Wow! How did you catch so much?!"


    "I hummed."


    "Hummed?"


    "Our song."


    Ying Yue tilted his head confused and Wang Li rubbed his cheek with a wet hand.


    "The one you wrote for me. Seems the fishes enjoys it too."


    He saw the redness paint over his wife''s freckles to the tip of his ears. It brought back old memories of when they were children¡­ the first time he called the blonde beautiful.


    ["What''s your name?" He asked and the boy in red turned to him.


    "What is yours?" He heard the question as they reached the lake.


    "Hm," the blonde sounded and thought about what to say.


    "Why don''t we give each other a name?" He offered with a shy smile, "I mean, something special, just between us?"


    The boy in red tilted his head searching his face, before his lips curl up.


    "What would you call me?" He questioned and his green eyes blinked.


    ''Hm¡­ what should I call you?'' He looked at the milky face before him and then looked up and down.


    "I got it!" The blonde nodded with a smile, "How about Wang Li?" He offered to see furrowed brows on the boy''s face, "You hold yourself as a ruler, like an emperor, a king," he explained, "And you are pretty. I am certain this should be your name." He nodded in agreement with himself, determined to convince the boy in red.


    "Is that so," the boy looked at him with a smile at the pretty blonde and glanced at the moon.


    "Ying Yue," he told the green-eyed boy, as he turned to face him again, "Will you accept this name?"


    "W¡­ why?" The blonde stumbled out confused, "Why would you call me that?"


    He let out a soft laugh and saw the young boy crossed his arms over his chest.


    "I think it fits you," he said softly and looked at the blonde, "You''re quite beautiful."


    "I''m¡­ I''m a boy," the boy spluttered out face red, "You''re only saying that because you think I''m a girl!"


    "I never thought you were a girl," He said confused and saw the blonde turn away, "Ying Yue can be beautiful too."


    "Here," He handed the pretty man his red handkerchief with a golden plum blossom adorning the corner. The blonde quickly wiped at his face and handed back the cloth.


    "Keep it," he said with a frown gracing his lips, upset at himself for making the blonde cry, "Let me think of another name."


    "No," the blonde quickly shook his head and smiled, "I like it. Sorry I got all¡­ like this."


    "You are pretty like a girl," he stated as a smile blossomed, "but beautiful as a boy."


    "Stop," the beautiful platinum blonde shouted pushing him away gently, "Do you compliment everyone like that?"


    He laughed underneath the moon, the one who watched over him daily. The beautiful boy joined in the laughter and he wondered if he would see him again, this interesting blonde.]


    "I want to try."

 Chapter 122 - Fill You Again

    Wang Li heard and it shook him out of his memories. Ying Yue attempted to head to the water, but Wang Li lifted him into his arm. Startled, his hands held onto his king''s shoulders.


    "Ah Li-"


    "You are too young, Ah Yue. You may drown."


    "But¡­ but¡­"


    "I will take care of you, Ying Yue."


    The blonde covered his face and pouted as he was carried back to the shack. When he was placed onto the ground, he attempted to gather sticks for the fire, but his lover shook his head. When he tried to start a fire, his husband shook his head. When he was about to place the fish through the stick to place on the fire, Wang Li took it from him.


    "Ah Li," he whined, "I am not useless because I look like a child."


    "You are not useless, Ah Yue."


    "I feel as such."


    Wang Li sighed and turned to the child. Humming, he figured he was acting protective over his wife. Pursing his lips, he placed his palm over blonde head and took account of how large his hand was compared to the child.


    "Forgive me. I only wish to protect you."


    "I know, but¡­ let me do something too."


    Nodding his head slowly, Ying Yue leaned against his side and hugged him.


    "Thank you, my husband."


    "You cannot call me this when we are around others, my love."


    "But wh- ¡­. Okay."


    He felt Wang Li kissed the top of his head and he smiled. It would be strange for people to hear him calling his lover husband, with him looking like a child.


    ''Then this means we must not touch one another like lovers either,'' he inwardly sigh.


    "Ah Li, I still want to ask Ye Wu for your core. I worry for you¡­"


    "Mm," Wang Li thumbed his lover''s cheeks and smiled, "Should we not visit the other leaders and return the candies to your brother first? We can wait, my wife. I have time."


    Ying Yue searched his face with big golden eyes and sighed. He felt the kiss against his cheek and it lingered there for a moment, before Wang Li pulled away with an exhale. He bit his bottom lip and moved forward, but his husband held him back.


    "I¡­ cannot kiss a child in such ways, my love."


    "But¡­ no one is looking¡­"


    "But I would know¡­ it would be¡­ strange."


    Ying Yue pouted, but he nodded in understanding. He kissed his lover''s cheek instead and reached over to flip the fishes.


    As he began to do just that, fire licked up his long sleeve. He heard the shout from Wang Li and he was quickly pulled back. The raven-haired man patted the fire out and held him close. He could hear the harsh breathing from his lover with his his body pressed against his king.


    "I am alright, my husband."


    "I cannot lose you again, not this soon."


    He rubbed gently over his lover''s chest, soothing him to calmness as golden eyes closed. Calling forth his energy, he sent them through his fingers and pushed it into his lover. It felt nothing, but it did not deter him from wishing to heal his lover''s very soul. He could hear the calming of Wang Li''s breathing and the death grip against him loosened.


    "Forgive me, my husband. I had made you worry."


    "Ah Yue¡­"


    Silver eyes looked drenched with hurt and pain. The blonde smiled reassuringly and smoothed over scars along the beautiful face before him.


    "I will do as you ask, do not worry."


    Wang Li nodded and kissed the blonde''s temple before grabbing the fishes off the fire.


    "Blow first before you eat."


    Ying Yue let out a giggle and nodded. He found himself smiling as well, as they ate their meal.


    As the sun was setting, Ying Yue had asked they start leaving to reach the South Sector and Wang Li agreed. However, the child had stumbled and fell with a thump.


    "Ah Yue!" He cried out picking the child up into his arms.


    "Dizzy¡­"


    Wang Li quickly laid the blonde down and ran down to the lake for some water. When he returned, Ying Yue was sweating and moaning almost in tears. Snow had whimpered as he nosed his master, unable to help the blonde. Wang Li placed a wet cloth on his wife''s forehead and wiped his skin cool.


    "You were dizzy before. The poison should be gone."


    "Mm."


    "Did you caught an illness?"


    "I was better after¡­"


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "You are a child."


    "Whose fault was that?!" Ying Yue shouted before groaning in pain.


    "¡­"


    "It hurts¡­"


    Wang Li squeezed the child''s small hands and kissed petite nose. He wondered what it could be. The Face Stealing Ghost had no poison within it to produce such illness and the poison of need should have been gone.


    When he laid with his wife before, his lover''s taste was different... sourer and tangier. He searched his mind to find any answer but couldn''t find one. He pushed sweat soaked bangs way from his wife''s face and stared at the writhing child.


    His eyes widened when he found what he was looking for.


    Pursing his lips and shutting his eyes, he could not believe how stupid he was. Exhaling through his nose, he could see clearly what was harming Ying Yue. He was unable to before due to his selfishness to please himself, but now¡­ things were so clear.


    "Forgive me, Ah Yue."


    Ying Yue furrowed his brows in confusion as he slowly fell into unconsciousness.


    What was his husband asking forgiveness for this time? Did he not know he would always forgive him? His Wang Li was always so concerned, he wondered if he would ever change the raven-haired man''s mind. Darkness blanketed him into sleep and he dreamt of a memory long ago.


    [Fingers gripped the bedsheet as the thrusts continued to push up against him incredibly slow. He laid on his side with his knees pressed against his chest as his lover hovered over him. Lips and tongue moved up his arm and shoulder to his jawline and ear. He whimpered and shot his arm out to press a palm against his husband''s chest.


    "Ah," he groaned as his king pressed deeply into him, making him feel the fullness inside.


    "Tell me, my dearest wife," Wang Li turned his face to capture his aroused reddened eyes, "What do you wish of me?"


    He bit his lips and moaned when a short thrust made his ass bounced against strong thighs. His lips were captured and he was having a hard time participating from being worn down. The cock inside him pulled out and he winced, but mewled out loudly with his back arched when his husband entered him quickly, filling him once more. He tightened his hold on the bedsheet and the palm against his lover''s chest moved up to wrap behind Wang Li''s neck.


    "Tell me, do you wish for more? Wish for me to fill you again, to be even fuller," Wang Li whispered darkly against his wet lips.


    "Yes."


    He whispered and his mouth was sucked and bitten. The thrusts picked up smearing the cum from earlier to pump out, leaking onto his husband''s shaft. Tears slipping down his face as he turned away from Wang Li to grip the sheets with both hands. A pillow protected his head from the wall with the force his husband was going, or else he was sure he''d have a concussion from every bang against the wall.


    Big hands gripped his thigh and hip for leverage and rammed into him harder, faster, quicker.


    "Ah! Ah Li! Mmph!"


    Ying Yue bit his lips groaning from the stretching of his walls. He panted as his body tightened and coiled like a spring ready to pop. His face was gripped and forced to turn to watch those once silver eyes now red.


    Tears were slipping down his golden eyes and his saliva slid down the corner of his opened mouth. His head was boxed in between lean muscled arms as his husband leaned over him. His back arched and he cried softly.


    Harsh panting echoed in his ear and Wang Li laughed darkly. A bite against the curvature of his neck sent pain nerves to his brain, yet his body exploded with colors.


    The blonde was twitching as he came quietly, breathlessly. Finally, Wang Li came again and stuffed him with more of his seeds. A wet tongue licked his wound and then he felt air.


    His husband pulled away and out of him to stare at his used swollen hole. Ying Yue could feel the cum dripping out, leaking and making him sticky. He bit hard on his lips as a finger pressed into his entrance, pushing the escaped seed back in his sore puckered hole.


    "My perfect beautiful wife," Wang Li laughed and placed a kiss to his bare bottom.


    Ying Yue did not reply as his body shivered and trembled. He was nodding off into unconsciousness as he felt his lover press inside him once more.]


    When Ying Yue woke, he was breathing harshly. That dream brought an emotion that he did not want to relive. Wang Li was¡­ rough and angry because-


    ["You are cursed, Ying Yue."


    "¡­ what?"


    "Did the Heavens not speak with you?"


    "He had twice, but he, he only said that I was wrong. I thought he meant what I''ve done to help Ah Li. Are you telling me he cursed me?"


    "Ah Yue¡­"


    "What was the curse? I need to know. What does it have to do with Wang Li? I¡­ please tell me."


    "You are the curse."


    He snapped his head to look at the redhead. What did his older brother mean by that? Brows furrowed and forehead creased, as he thought about it.


    "Ying Yue, you said your husband had gone to see the demon. Was there any advice?" His master questioned gently.


    "I''m not sure¡­ sometimes he seemed normal, then other times he isn''t. I don''t think there was much changes, but Wang Li is trying to see if it was the need to create chaos. Madame Yun told me¡­ she told me to let Ah Li fall, let him give in and create chaos but I cannot do that. I cannot leave him and watch him give up all his goodness. I can''t."


    When he was done speaking, Ying Yue was breathing hard and his heart was having a hard time going back to beating normally. Pressing his hand against his heart, the blonde squeezed his fingers, as if to settle the thumps pounding his chest.


    "Ying Yue. Your choice to stay with the Ghost King was not in the Heaven''s plan. Therefore, Jade Emperor had done what he felt was needed."


    "To put a curse on me?!"


    "¡­Yes."


    "What is the curse? Master, please be honest with me."


    "The longer you stay with your husband, the more goodness you take from him, the quicker he gets to being true evil¡­" his master cupped his shoulder and looked at him sadly, "Do you understand, Ying Yue, what you must do?"]


    ''NO!'' He shut his eyes and scrunched his face. He was not going to do it. He wasn''t!


    He curled his small body in the bed alone.


    ''He wasn''t.''


    The sound of light plucks filtered in his ears and it calmed him, soothed his throbbing heart.


    ''Ah Li?''

 Chapter 123 - Hurry And Become An Adult

    As he focused, he could hear a sad song being played. He laid there for a moment, not wanting to interrupt the playing of plucked threads and the purring of the snow leopard. He took in the smell of something sweet and he felt his lips spread. He could imagine Wang Li with a pastry beside him as he moved his long fingers, lifting and moving along silk strings. Snow would be lying beside his master, relaxed and content.


    He opened his eyes and turned over slowly, to peek over the bed. The only thing he got wrong from what he imagined, was the sadness on his lover''s face. Silver eyes glazed, staring blankly at fingers as they moved. Hair draped down his lover''s back and Ying Yue just stared.


    Why was his husband looking so sad? Was it because he was small? Although Wang Li looked this way, it still did not deter how beautiful his king was.


    "Did you sleep well, Ah Yue?"


    He smiled and lifted himself out of the bed. Heading to his lover, he kissed the man''s cheek and sat beside him. Taking in his husband''s natural smell, he exhaled slowly. He leaned against the arm and watched fingers plucking silken strings.


    "I slept well enough, Ah Li."


    "You were crying."


    "¡­"


    "I did that to you."


    "I¡­ I had a dream¡­" he mumbled, "... of the past. That is all, my love."


    "¡­"


    "..."


    Wang Li sighed and bent down to press a kiss to Heaven''s mark. He paused there for a moment, before letting out a sigh as he sat back. Ying Yue saw that same sadness, the one he wished he could wipe away, clean away, prayed away, but it clung onto his husband like a shadow.


    "I am alright, Ah Li. You worry too much, don''t you think?"


    "As a husband should," Wang Li smiled slowly, "You are my wife... This... sounds different now that you look... the way you are."


    Ying Yue flushed and he smacked his forehead against his lover''s shoulder a few times, before Wang Li held his head in place. The platinum blonde sighed and looked up to see silver eyes watching him. He offered a smile and he was rewarded with a peck on his petite nose.


    "Even as a child, you are beautiful, Ah Yue."


    "Ah Li," he whined out softly, "I wished I can kiss you."


    Ying Yue pouted and felt a hand squeezed the back of his head.


    "You do not know how much I wish it was, my love."


    Wang Li kissed his forehead down to his temple, holding him there for a moment before cleaning them up. Feeling embarrassed, he curled his shoulders inward and pulled up his knees. His husband sighed and sat beside him, placing a cold palm at his lower back. He leaned against his lover''s side and sighed.


    "This song¡­ is it one you wrote?"


    "Mm."


    "It is¡­ so sad, painful¡­ heartbreak. What caused you to write such a song?"


    Wang Li stopped playing and looked at him and smiled, but his eyes were still clouded with sadness that Ying Yue wished he could erase.


    This look of his lover''s¡­ it had never truly left since they were young, did it? What was his king holding in that caused him pain? The blonde ran his small palms across scarred face, hoping to ease what he could of how his husband was feeling.


    "When I killed you."


    Ying Yue''s throat dried up. Lips opened and closed unable to produced words. Silver eyes said so much and the platinum blonde shook his head.


    "It wasn''t¡­"


    "Yes. It was. I killed you and that is a burden I must bear."


    "Ah Li¡­"


    His small wrists were held and his big golden eyes watched as moonlit eyes closed. His palms were pulled to be kissed by thin lips and breathed in. Ying Yue saw his lover''s eyes opened and Wang Li moved to lay a kiss on his forehead.


    "Shall we go to the sectors? We will find you decent clothing there."


    He nodded silently and helped pack what was needed, before he held onto the half mask Wang Li had wore as a painter. He glanced at his lover in blue and the man smiled at him. Kneeling down, the raven-haired man closed his eyes and offered his face. Ying Yue grinned and placed the mask against his lover.


    His husband smiled and wrapped a red ribbon, the one that held up dark hair, around his forehead to hide his mark.


    "People should not know Heaven''s Chosen had become a child," Wang Li finished tying a knot and ran a thumb underneath his eye, "Your eyes would give you away¡­ We should grab a mask as well."


    "I want to pick it," he grinned and Wang Li let out a laugh.


    So hopping onto his lover''s waist, he wrapped himself tightly and snugged in with a smile. A straw hat was placed on his head and he blinked before a grin spread across his face. Letting out a giggle, he hummed happily as they went on their way. Villagers had stared at them and he looked over at Snow who was walking beside them unperturbed. Making sure his eyes weren''t visible, he looked around under his hat.


    They had entered the vicinity of the South Sector where Sect Leader Zhi was located. The South Sector was known for their many supplies of clothing, the place Sheng Shui loved. The seam master had stated he wanted to live in this village but chose to stay with Wang Li.


    Ying Yue understood.


    When one loves another, sacrifices were to be made.


    "Hello Sir Painter," the round elderly man smiled, "Oh, who is this? A child?"


    "I would like clothing for him. Would you prepare one?"


    "Of course! Which would you like for her?"


    Ying Yue grimaced.


    ''Does everyone just see me as a girl even when Wang Li said ''him'' and not ''her''?''


    "Hm, red."


    "Alright. Please place her down so I can measure her correctly."


    Wang Li placed him down and whispered for him to close his eyes. Ying Yue followed and let his arms be lifted and the long fabric pulled up until his feet was shown. Then, it was over and Wang Li had picked him up once again. this time he was wrapped around the side and not the back.


    "It will be ready soon, Sir Painter."


    "I thank you, Sir. I shall pay you-"


    "No, no," the man waved him off, "You had painted my beautiful daughter without payment. This is nothing compared to it. Come back soon."


    Wang Li bowed and continued down the street and smiled at people who greeted him.


    "Ah Li, red? Do you not want any other color? I¡­ would like the blue you wear now. We can match, Ah Li."


    "Hm, but you look beautiful in red, Ah Yue."


    Ying Yue flushed and grinned widely.


    "You look more beautiful."


    "I know."


    He laughed and his husband tickled his side, making him squirm happily. He cupped his lover''s face and leaned in, but Wang Li turned so his lips touched his cheek. His king reciprocated by kissing his smooth cheek.


    "Hurry and become an adult, my love. I will please you, eat you, pleasure you truly."


    He inhaled sharply and tucked his face into his lover''s cold neck, helping to cool his heated skin.


    "Your fault," he mumbled against pale skin.


    "I will forever regret it," Wang Li sighed and rubbed his back.


    He saw the masks stall and walked over. His silver eyes rolled over each mask and the woman who made it brightened seeing him.


    "Ah! Sir Painter, you have returned! I made something special for you. Look."


    The woman picked up the mask under the stall to reveal a red laced mask with golden jewels and emeralds. Wang Li was pleased with such intricacy, as much as he was pleased with his seam master''s robes.


    He saw small arms pointing at a mask with two koi fishes around each eye.


    "This is beautiful, Miss. I would like this as well," Wang Li smiled and reached into his pouch of coins he received for painting clients, "20 gold coins enough?"


    "Oh, you bless me, Sir Painter. Please, only 10 is enough."


    Wang Li nodded and exchanged the coins for the masks. He took them to an area where wandering eyes would not see their faces. He placed Ying Yue down to the ground and placed the mask on him.


    Smiling, he handed his mask to the child and bent down. Small hands removed his current one to trade for the red one. He felt a kiss to his cheek and Wang Li returned it, before standing and holding his lover''s small hand.


    "Ah Li, thank you for the mask! I feel super cool. This must be how you feel, right?"


    His lover chuckled and looked at him from above, tightening his hand. Ying Yue swooned and moved closer to the raven-haired male and walked with light steps. He looked over at Snow to see the big cat casually beside them and hummed.


    "Ah Li, Snow is big now, but no one is worried about him like before¡­"


    "Before?"


    "Mm, when my brothers and I started traveling, the villagers feared him, so Ah Mo had given me the pink candy to give him. That was why Snow was a kitten and¡­ now me."


    "How long did it take for Snow to return big again?"


    "Mm, many moons Ah Li. Almost as long as you were gone."


    "I see," his lover said and there was a pinch at the corner of his silver eyes.


    ''Must I wait that long?''

 Chapter 124 - Sneaky Child

    That was all Wang Li had commented as they continued walking and looking at stalls. His eyes caught the shimmering of silver and gold. He tugged at his husband''s hand and headed over to the stall filled with jewels.


    "Look, Ah Li," Ying Yue had pointed at the necklace adorned with silver and gold, "Looks like our eyes."


    "They do."


    "Would you like to purchase this, Sir Painter?"


    The young woman asked as she leaned closer with her cleavage exposed. Ying Yue blinked at it and moved closer to Wang Li.


    ''How shameless¡­''


    "Yes, miss. How much would you offer?"


    "Oh, how about lunch and a painting from you? That would be all the payment I would need."


    "I accept. Where would you like to meet?"


    "My home, Sir Painter. It is not far, come."


    "Let me dress my child first, then I will return to follow."


    Wang Li bowed and Ying Yue felt the pat on his head from the female as they left. The blonde frowned and looked at his lover. He wondered if Wang Li accepted many offers to survive all these times.


    "Is this what you''ve been doing, Ah Li?"


    "Yes."


    "Oh."


    Ying Yue wasn''t sure what else he wanted to say, but they arrived at the man who had his clothes ready.


    "Ah, Sir Painter! It is ready. Child, you may change in here."


    The blonde nodded and changed feeling the fabric slid nicely over his body. Sheng Shui, once the master of seam, was pleased with the fabric and sewing. Ying Yue walked out with his adult robe folded in his hands. He saw Wang Li smile softly at him and reached for him. He went willingly.


    "Thank you, sir," Ying Yue bowed.


    "Not a problem, princess. Take good care of our painter, okay?"


    "Okay!" He laughed and earned a candy pop from the man. His golden eyes glitter from behind the mask and took the offered sweet, bowing as he did.


    "Thank you!"


    "Ah, what a sweet child. You take care of her too, Sir Painter."


    "I shall. Thank you, sir."


    "No worries! Come back anytime."


    Wang Li bowed reaching for the blonde''s hand and Ying Yue wrapped them together. He tucked the candy away and pet Snow as they went back to the female earlier. She had closed her shop and was holding the boxes in her hands. She waved at them and Wang Li offered to carry some of her jewelries.


    "Oh, what a gentleman," The female pressed her voluptuous chest against the raven-haired male and moved a finger down his chest, "Thank you, Sir Painter."


    "It is my pleasure, miss."


    "Please, call me Jia Le. No need to be so formal."


    "Lead the way, Miss Le."


    Ying Yue frowned and tightened his hands around Wang Li''s as they followed. The female was chattering and he moved closer to his husband. Once they reached the home, it smelled of perfume and sweets. The table already had the brushes, ink, and parchment papers. Beside the items, a plate of pastries coated in sugar laid.


    ''Are they¡­ close? Had Wang Li been here before?''


    Ying Yue wondered and felt a pinch on his cheek. He turned to see breasts before him and he squeaked, flushing as he stumbled back. The female laughed covering her lips before winking at him.


    "Such a cutie," she cooed, and Ying Yue moved to hide behind his lover, "Awe, so shy."


    "Shall I paint first, Miss Le."


    "Ah, let me heat up tea and have the rice cooking. I will be right back."


    The female singsong as she headed into the kitchen. Wang Li was settling himself at the table with painting items and sweets.


    "Ah Li, are you sure that is okay to eat?"


    "It smells delicious."


    "Just because it smells good, it doesn''t mean it is good for you," Ying Yue whispered as he sat beside him, while Snow stayed outside.


    "Hm? Would you like to taste it first then?"


    Wang Li tore a small piece and pressed the sugar covered bread against his lips.


    Ying Yue figured if he were to be poisoned, he would heal much quicker than his lover. Opening his mouth, the pastry slipped into his mouth, along with a long finger. He looked at Wang Li innocently as he sucked the finger lightly, and received the slight redness against his king''s ears.


    Finger slipped out of his lips and he giggled, chewing the pastry.


    "You are right, Ah Li. Delicious."


    "You sneaky child," Wang Li smirked and pinched his side, making him squeal with a laugh.


    Wang Li ate the sweet slowly and stared at him with a slow smirk. Ying Yue flushed and turned away, but his chin was held and a white cloth wiped his lips of sugar. He licked his lips and stared at the white cloth with golden lining.


    "Ah Li¡­ is that¡­"


    "Sheng Shui''s handkerchief."


    "¡­"


    "You never made me one, my love," Wang Li whispered and Ying Yue frowned at himself.


    "I can''t believe I forgot¡­"


    "I distracted you."


    "Yes."


    Wang Li laughed softly and finished his pastry, Licking each finger slowly. Ying Yue bit his lip and had to stuff another pastry in his mouth to not kiss his lover. The female returned to the room and he choked on his sweet seeing the outfit on her body.


    The shiny pink robe was too small, looked like a child''s, and barely wrapped around the female''s body. He choked on the pastry in his mouth and felt the patting against his back. He could hear the female giggling and when he glanced up, he felt his face flushed deeply.


    "Shameless!" He cried and tucked his face against his lover''s side with his ears red.


    "Oh child¡­ should she be outside while you work, dear painter?"


    Ying Yue held on tighter to Wang Li''s blue robe and he felt a hand to his head.


    "He will be fine, Miss Le. Let us begin. Please be still."


    He kept his head tucked and felt the movements of his lover''s arms as he worked. He leaned in closer, relaxing his tense muscles and sighed with closed eyes. He smiled and leaned out of his husband''s arms and reached for a pastry, but he forgot about the female. When his golden eyes glanced at Jia Le, he flushed deeply at such a display.


    He quickly turned to look at Wang Li who had a smirk on his lips.


    "Miss Jia Le is a beauty, is she not, Ah Yue."


    He made a noise between indignant and upset.


    "Ah, you have taken the last sweet. Will you share, Ah Yue?"


    He pouted and picked at the pastry as he looked down.


    "I will paint faster, sweet child," Wang Li smiled at him before continuing to make strokes.


    Ying Yue bit his lips and crawled into Wang Li''s lap, earning a surprised noise from his lover. Flushing, the blonde ripped a piece of the pastry and fed his husband. He earned a soft laugh and a hum. He waited until thin lips part before placing more sweet bread. When he was finished with the pastry, he wrapped his arms around the raven-haired male and leaned against cold chest.


    His eyes looked over at the straw hat he had taken off beside his lover and found himself smiling as a memory flooded his mind.


    ["Ah Li, where did my hat go?"


    Wang Li tilted his head holding back a grin and shrugged. Green eyes, before they turned gold, narrowed with a frown. Letting out a huff, he looked around the room for his hat.


    "Why is it important, Ah Yue. We could always get you a new one, a better one."


    "I don''t want a new one."


    He sighed and sat on the floor with a frown. Wang Li joined him and he looked at the floor in between their knees.


    "It was my master''s."


    There was a quietness around them before the straw hat was placed on his head. Blinking, he touched his head and let out a relieved sigh. He looked over to receive an apologetic smile.


    "My apologies, Ah Yue."


    "It also reminds me of you¡­"


    "Me?"


    "The first time we met was because of this hat."


    He smiled and received the softest of smile from his best friend.]


    Ying Yue sighed happily as the memory reinforced how much he loved his lover. The strokes stopped and he felt the light vibration against his husband''s chest. The baritone voice made him melt and he nuzzled against the man he was holding.


    "I am finished, Miss Le."


    "Oh, let it dry, Sir Painter. Let us go eat then! I shall prepare us a fantastic me-"


    "Jia Le! Why did you clos-"


    A man stormed in and paused, glancing at the indecent female and them. Blue eyes widened and a flush deepened against his face, before a scowl and a growl escaped those lips. The man turned and stomped out of the room.


    "Wait! Oh dang it," Jia Le stood up covering what she could and rushed to the man.


    "Let us go, my love," Wang Li whispered and grabbed the hat. Placing the straw hat on his raven hair, he lifted Ying Yue still wrapped around his front. Walking out of the room with the child, Wang Li saw the female and the man arguing with one another. Letting out a deep sigh through his nose, he cleared his throat.


    "I apologize, Miss Le. I must decline lunch. My child is not feeling well, but I hope he enjoys your gift to him."


    "Gift?" The man looked at the female for an explanation.


    "Uh, yes. Yes, a gift," she looked over at Wang Li. "Thank you for your time, Sir Painter! Goodbye child. Do not forget to grab the necklace as payment."


    Wang Li nodded and went over to the table and grabbed the jewelry. Leaving the home, his husband placed the necklace over his head. It shined and dangled down his neck. Grinning, he held onto his lover tighter.


    Ying Yue let out a deep sigh and leaned back smiling at his lover. His golden eyes roamed the scars, the dips, the beauty of his husband. Wang Li smiled back and placed a kiss on the mask covering his forehead. He watched as Snow joined them with a yawn and he looked at the sky to see it darkening.


    "Were we there for that long?"


    "It is getting dark sooner than it should."


    Ying Yue heard the serious tone and searched his king''s face. He opened his mouth to say something, but Wang Li had smiled at someone behind him.


    "Sect Leader Zhi."

 Chapter 125 - He Deserves To Be Happy Too

    "Sir Painter! Ah Yang was right! You''ve finally came out of your inspirational cave huh? How have you been, my friend?"


    "I am doing better."


    "Hi Sect Leader Zhi," Ying Yue greeted and the man in blue blinked at him.


    "You¡­ oh! No wonder you were gone for so long! You had a child! Who is the mother, Sir Painter? Don''t tell me it was Jia Le or Zhao Chi."


    "Ah Zhi. Please."


    "Ah, sorry. I must collect myself," the man laughed and reached for the ravenette''s arm, "Come. Let us eat and speak together! Do you need a place to sleep? You may stay with me in the palace, you and your child."


    "Thank you, Ah Zhi. We will not stay long."


    "Stay as long as you wish, dear friend."


    Ying Yue watched as the sect leader spoke happily with Wang Li and his lover doing the same. He also noted the hold on his husband''s arm stayed even when they reached the palace. He bit his lips and pressed a light kiss at the side of his king''s neck.


    He heard a hum and felt a hand ran up and down his back soothingly.


    "Eh?" The leader looked up at the sky slowly covered with rain clouds, "Is the Ghost King alright?"


    Ying Yue pulled back to look over at the frown on the man''s face. Glancing up to see his lover''s reaction, the thinned lips and slightly narrowed eyes at the sky confused him.


    "What do you mean, Sect Leader Zhi?" He asked and the man looked at him.


    "Oh, have you not heard the story, little child?"


    He shook his head and the leader was about to speak, but water droplets fell lightly against them before it picked up. Rushing into the palace and into a candle lit room, Sect Leader Zhi was bombarded by his people trying to dry him. Looking over at Wang Li and the child, he shrugged with an amused smile as he was relieved of his tunic and replaced with a new one.


    "Of course, brother is still being babied."


    "Ah Chou, could you not?"


    The older man let out a laugh and headed to them. He had short dark blue hair like the sect leader, but had bright purple eyes and tanned skin. Ying Yue stared at them and smiled finally getting to meet him.


    ''So this is the brother. He looks so carefree¡­ I am envious.''


    "Sir Painter, looking dashing as always."


    "You are still a charmer, Mo Chou."


    "The mask maker did great. The red fits you, Sir Painter. A beauty. You, of course, not the mask."


    "Ah Chou," Wang Li breathed out a smile and shook his head amused.


    The man laughed and glanced at the blonde, eyes softening.


    "I did not know you had a child, dear painter. Hm, blonde?"


    ''Hm.. into blondes my dear painter?''


    "Ah Chou, stop flirting with Sir Painter, don''t you have another conquest to achieve?"


    Sect Leader Zhi teased with a grin as they went to sit down at the table. Ying Yue noticed Snow was not with them and he assumed the big cat had found his own safe place away from the rain. Maybe the snow leopard ran off to the temple for his master.


    Sitting beside Wang Li, he took his teacup and blew on it.


    "Actually, dear brother, you are the one who will need to find a woman soon."


    "I have time."


    "You are getting older," the purple eyed man gave a slow sly smirk, "Unless you are waiting for Sir Painter?"


    Sect Leader Zhi felt his eyes widened and his mouth opened and closed. His older brother was wiggling his brows with a knowing look and he found himself flushing.


    "What?! Brother! What are you insinuating!"


    "Hm? That you find Sir Painter exceptional and beautiful."


    Ying Yue watched the brothers play fighting as they grabbed one another, fighting for dominance.


    "Sect Leader Zhi is a handsome man, just, kind, compassionate. Anyone will be honored to be by his side."


    Eyes went to look at his lover smiling softly as he sipped his tea. Ying Yue wondered if Wang Li had¡­ feelings for the sect leader too.


    ''Why must everyone love you, Ah Li?''


    "Eh, you are speaking to kindly of me, Sir Painter. I do not see a reason to share my space, especially when my brother takes up most of it," the leader laughed, causing everyone to join.


    "That is kind of you as well, little brother, but you and I know why you are the leader and not me."


    "Brother, you know that does not matter. You are not my true blood, but you are my brother."


    Ying Yue nodded quietly understanding why Sect Leader Zhi had became the leader instead of Mo Chou. He lit up when he smelt the delicious meal, making his mouth water. He felt a hand on his head and he turned to the man with purple eyes.


    "Why don''t you remove your mask, child? Are you hiding your beauty like your father?"


    "I am not beautiful like him," Ying Yue smiled.


    "It would be hard to match, but I am sure you could. Beauty such as the both of yours should rival the Heavens."


    The blonde ended up laughing and leaned closer to Wang Li, who wrapped an arm around him.


    "I assure you, this child is the most beautiful. I am honored to stand beside him."


    Ying Yue flushed and hid his face against his lover''s arm.


    "Ah, then his mother must be beautiful as well. Please tell us about her," Sect Leader Zhi spoke up as he began eating.


    "I do not know who his mother is."


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "She¡­ she just left him at your door? How could you not remember?" Mo Chou furrowed his brows.


    "Brother¡­ do you remember all you lay with?"


    "¡­"


    "Let us not speak of that, Ah Chou, Ah Zhi. I saw the charms around the sector and village."


    "Oh yes," the leader nodded, "Heaven''s Chosen had came with his brothers, the cultivators. There was a demon that had killed Sect Leader Bo. We still do not know if the demon was the one who brought demons to the North for Ah Bo to torture. I am not sure who else would."


    "What if the Ghost King was the one to do it?"


    "What?!"


    "Think about it," Mo Chou spoke up, "All of this is happening recently. The demons and ghosts showing up and the change in weather¡­ you know the Ghost King is involved."


    "No, the Ghost King would not just do something irrational. Something must have gone wrong."


    "Yes. He became crazy!"


    "Why must you speak about him in such ways! He is a just king. He would not willingly-"


    "Why are you taking his side?!"


    "Because he had always been kind. He saved you. That is something I will always owe to our king," He smiled and looked at his tea, "To have the responsibility of death is a daunting task, brother."


    The brothers stared at one another with glared and fisted hands. Ying Yue was about to speak up, but he felt the tightening of fingers at his hip.


    "It is his fault."


    "Sir Painter," the leader frowned disappointed.


    "He is a selfish man. You may think he does what he does for the sake of others, but he chooses to take advantage of what he could. If he was doing his job, demons and ghosts would have not hurt anyone, killed parents, children, families. So I agree with Ah Chou, the Ghost King is at fault."


    The navy haired man nodded in approval, but Ying Yue frowned.


    "No," he stared straight at Wang Li.


    "The Ghost King had to take care of the whole sectors, this whole world for many, many centuries. He protected us from ghosts and demons for many moons and he was stuck in his home, his village. He couldn''t leave and he grew up knowing his role. It is not selfishness if he¡­ if he wanted something. I say he deserves it. He deserves to be happy too."


    Silver eyes softened and fingers wiped at his cheeks spreading the tears. His head was pressed against cold chest and he clutched to his lover, hoping what he said got through. When will Wang Li understand that he had done so much for everyone?


    "I agree with your child, Sir Painter. See, even children care for the Ghost King. It is a sad life to live and we could empathize with him."


    "Alright, I give. How can I continue to speak ill of the Ghost King when the young one spoke so kindly of him?" The purple eyed man sighed.


    "Are you alright?" Wang Li asked quietly holding his head in cold hands. He nodded and his lover kissed his bare cheek and kept his hand on his.


    They ate quietly after that.


    When they were finished, they said their goodnights and was brought to the room where they would stay. As they settled in bed, he curled closer to his the platinum blonde and took a deep breath. Arms wrapped around him and was brought to place over the adult, while Ying Yue laid on Wang Li''s chest. As he settled to be wrapped by sleep, he realized Snow was not there.


    "Snow?" He mumbled against scarred skin.


    "Sleep, Ah Yue. He is alright."


    The lulling of rubbing against him made his eyes fluttered slowly before he fell asleep. Wang Li continued his soothing long after Ying Yue had fallen asleep. His eyes staring at the ceiling lost in thought before he felt his throat constricting.

 Chapter 126 - I Will Find You

    Quickly slipping out from under the child, he turned over to the side and coughed. Hand covering his mouth to muffle his noise, his body shook and convulsed as he tried to catch his breath. After a moment, he finally pulled his hand away and wiped the blood with the handkerchief. Lying still on his side, he breathed and blinked slowly. Small arms wrapped over him and warm small body pressed against his back. He could hear and feel the soft snore against his skin.


    He closed his eyes and memorized the beating of his lover''s heartbeat, memorized the feel of arms around him, memorized the sound of his wife''s breathing. Slowly turning, he made sure to keep the small arms around him. Pressing a kiss to smooth forehead, he closed his eyes and waited until the sun rose, bringing them closer to the final chapter.


    ==


    Ying Yue opened his eyes and yawned to see he was alone. He got off the bed, dressed, placed the koi mask on his face, and put on his straw hat on his head. When he opened the door, he saw Mo Chou speaking with a few men from afar.


    He looked serious and his lips were curled into a frown.


    Ying Yue saw purple eyes turned to him and the frown lifted into a smile. He smiled back and waved, but he sensed something wrong. Turning to his left, he was quickly thrown into a sack and was being carried away.


    "Let me out! Ah Li! Ah Li! Someone help! Help!"


    He shouted and was about to call for his sword, but he remembered Wang Li telling him to stay hidden. No one should know he was a child.


    He continued to push against the sack and scream for his husband, but he was thrown into the wall and fell unconscious.


    When he came to, he was still in the sack, but it wasn''t moving any longer. He took a deep breath and tried to listen out. The sound of drips nearby, the coolness against him, the smell of fresh rain told him he was outside.


    ''But where?''


    He reached up to the opening, but he was unable to open it on his own. He wondered if he should use his qi. Would he reveal himself if he did?


    ''Why am I taken¡­ again?''


    He sighed and wondered if Wang Li would be able to find him this time. He touched his face and resettled his mask. A thought came to him and he wondered if Snow would be able to hear him from where he was. Taking a deep breath, he whispered softly and sent it out into the air.


    He heard footsteps nearing him and he held his breath.


    ''Mo Chou saw it happened. He will tell Ah Li and they will find me. They found me before, they can find me again,'' he told himself as the sack opened and he was tossed out.


    His hands and legs were quickly bounded, but he screamed and turned to try to bite skin. His hair was pulled and slammed onto the floor with his face forward, bloodying his nose. He let out a groan and the kidnapper left him on the floor.


    Ying Yue looked around him to see where he was located. He was outside, but the area looked different.


    ''The mountains?'' He wondered, ''We are far from the South Sector¡­''


    He slowly turned to see a man with a purple beard and bald head. The man just stared at him as he cleaned his weapon. Ying Yue slowly sat up and looked around some more, but the man pointed his sword at him.


    "Try to escape and you will die, child."


    "Why did you kidnap me? I¡­ I did nothing to you."


    "It is not you, she wants."


    "She?"


    The man just stared at him and cleaned his sword once more. Ying Yue continued to roam his eyes around the area and concluded they were outside a small cabin in the mountains. From the mountains he saw during his travel with his family, this mountain was in the East.


    He looked at the sky to see it burning down at them, making his milky skin burn. His straw hat was gone and he hoped Wang Li or Snow or someone could find him.


    ''Who was this ''she''? Who does this person want, and why grab him?''


    His eyes widened when the answer glared at him.


    They wanted Wang Li.


    He fisted his hands and pursed his lips. Why did someone want to get to his husband? What was the purpose of this? Ying Yue glanced at the man again to see his black eyes staring at him. He didn''t look familiar to him from anywhere. He stayed quiet and slid hesitantly to lean against the wall of the cabin. He stared at the drip of water slipping off the shingles of the roof.


    He counted each drop until someone came for him.


    "So you caught him."


    Ying Yue turned to the voice that appeared after the 314th drip. He could feel the hairs at the back of his neck stood up, watching the woman walk over in a suggestive manner. Eyes as dark as coals and hair as dark as the midnight sky, the female took a hold of his chin. The grin on her face looked pleasing to many, but to Ying Yue, it was the grin of capturing a prey.


    "You''ve become a child, Heaven''s Chosen, how touching."


    The female grabbed his mask and removed it, leaving him feeling more naked. His golden eyes narrowed as the woman crushed the ceramic mask into dust with one hand. She tightened her hold and he felt a pierce against his chin, drawing a trickily of blood. He tightened his lips and pushed the female away.


    "What do you want with him?"


    "With the Ghost King? Well¡­ the former one at least. I just want him to see how weak he is now. He deserves pain for putting us through lifetimes of humiliation and caged like a beast!" The female''s nose flared as the human skin pumped with black veins.


    "He will come for you, his dearest love, and I will kill you before him."


    Ying Yue felt his throat dry and he bit the inside of his cheek. Swallowing, he glanced at the man once again to hear the laughter from the female.


    "Oh, he is my warrior, aren''t you my love?"


    "Anything for you, my queen."


    "Heh, see? So easy," the female grinned and turned to him once more, "It''s okay to be afraid, blondie."


    "Who are you?"


    She laughed loudly and tsked as she stared at the harsh wind blowing with the bright sun above them. She crossed her arms and looked at him from under her nose. Ying Yue felt something clicked in his mind and he fisted his hands.


    "You are¡­ Ye Wu''s sister."


    "Smarter than I thought," the female smirked.


    "But-"


    "But what?! My brother should keep me locked up like an animal?! That I should not leave the prison of the Netherworld? You do not understand what life was for us. It is our time now, child."


    Ying Yue pushed himself up and frowned at her.


    "Ye Wu promised. What have you-"


    She laughed loudly, cackling and wiping a fake tear from her eye.


    "I have done nothing. That stupid boy thought he was smart, thought he could control everything."


    "We will stop you. You must return."


    "How do you think to win? You are a child and your lover is weak. He will die soon and you will join him," She laughed and Ying Yue could not deny what she said, but he had to fight. So doing the only thing he could think of until someone came to assist him, he called for his blade.


    "Sword."


    ==


    Wang Li stared blankly, but the cold chill was emitting from him like vengeance of death.


    When Mo Chou had rushed to his brother and himself to announce the kidnapping, he found his entire blood drop. He clutched to the straw hat tighter as he listened to who might have done it, what was seen, and where they could have been taken.


    "I am sorry, Sir Painter. I could not stop it in time, but I will find him."


    He turned to the man with purple eyes and he looked down to the map where lines were marked.


    "He should be around this area, according to our warriors. They lost the man here."


    "Brother, let me gather our troops to save the child."


    "You?"


    "You are needed here, to protect the sector. I will gather our best to find him. It is my fault. I was not fast enough!"


    Mo Chou fisted his hands and turned away in shame. Sect Leader Zhi cupped his shoulders and nodded.


    "Bring him back to Sir Painter."


    "I am going as well."


    "But, Sir Painter. It will be dangerous-"


    "Ah Zhi. I am going."


    The man in blue nodded slowly and called for his chancellor. Wang Li had to wait for Mo Chou to gather his men, but the silver eyes man felt his skin crawl with need for his lover. Clenching his teeth, he tried not to scream for them to hurry. He fisted his hands to not shake them ready.


    A familiar whistle sounded, one only he could hear.


    ''You are alright,'' he sighed slightly relieved.


    "Snow, go find him. Do what you must to protect him."


    He whispered and watched as blue eyes peered from the shadows and left. He took a deep breath trying to calm his nerves. Mo Chou looked at him and nodded, stating they were ready. He was handed a spear and followed after them, hoping his wife was not hurt.


    ''Ah Yue. Stay alive. I will be there soon. I will find you.''

 Chapter 127 - I Will Kill You

    Wang Li and company arrived at the mountains and there was a man with a curved sword, glinting under the setting sun. Wang Li narrowed his eyes behind the mask and tightened his hold around his weapon. The bald man stared and pointed at him, making a move for him to come forward.


    "You know him, Sir Painter? He was the one who took your child," Mo Chou stated.


    Wang Li took a few steps forward to stand before the warriors and thinned his lips.


    "Where is he?"


    "She is playing with him."


    The creaking of wood in his hand sounded as he huffed out of his nose.


    "Where?"


    The man stretched his lips into a grin.


    "When my brother told me you gave him your core, I thought he was speaking of a dream. Now I see it is true."


    "You should have stayed."


    He laughed and swung his sword easily before him, like waving his hand to rid a pesky fly.


    "My brother no longer listens to you, child. You no longer control him!"


    The man rushed to him and Wang Li fought back. Mo Chou had side stepped into the fight and forced the enemy back.


    "Sir Painter! Go find your child. My warriors and I will hold him back."


    "He is strong-"


    "Don''t worry, we can handle ourselves."


    "I would never imagine humans protecting you, Ghost King. Knowing you are the one who killed their ancestors," the man grinned revealing sharp teeth, "Oh, they do not know. How disappointing."


    Wang Li rushed forward and attacked the man who blocked him easily. He continued to fight and he could hear Mo Chou calling out for his warriors to attack.


    "No. Ah Chou. He is too strong for-"


    "Enough! We will fight."


    Purple eyes glared at him and he shouted as he ran forward, followed by his warriors. Wang Li tightened his hold and took a step forward, but he started coughing.


    ''Dammit!'' His body wreck and trembled as blood escaped his lips.


    "Sir Painter!" One of the warrior called out and rushed to his side. He was being held up, but he quickly pushed the young fighter away as an arm shot toward them. He stumbled back with a groan, but his leg was caught and dragged. He reached for a fallen sword and twisted over in time to block the curved blade of his enemy.


    The demon''s human skin was gone and the form of glowing red eyes, lanky stature, and face cut by sharp teeth was replaced. Wang Li struggled with pushing the demon back and the man snarled at him.


    "Why he would choose you is pathetic!"


    The demon''s other hand crushed the neck of a warriors before swiping to clear the space. Out of the five warriors, only Mo Chou survived.


    Wang Li lifted his lips into a smirk.


    "Are you jealous he chose me instead of his own blood? The pathetic one is you."


    The man growled and lifted the sword to strike him harder, but he twisted and stabbed at the demon''s skinny leg. It did not deter the monster from adjusting his strike and it caught his shoulder. Grunting out, Wang Li made sure to twist the sword and used his strength to cut through the leg.


    The demon howled and caught himself on his sword, aiming a death glare at him.


    "You! I will kill you!"


    An arrow, two, five shot at the demon and Wang Li quickly moved back to give him distance. Breathing hard, he looked over at Mo Chou who was holding the bow and arrow pointed at the demon. He felt the tug against his skin and his eyes widened.


    ''Snow!''


    "How pathetic, the both of you, Ghost King."


    The female voice sighed and he looked to where she was. Higher up on a ledge, she had her arm outstretched and dangling from her hand was-


    "Ah Yue!"


    The blonde was bleeding and unconscious. He boiled with rage and scowled deeply in hatred at the female. He tightened his hold on the sword in his hand.


    "Do not worry, he is alive¡­ for now. Your pet barely put up a fight. It was quite sad."


    "What is it you want!"


    "Hm? Oh, to kill people and to kill you, torture you, lock you in a cage. Oh, so many things," she said gleefully and her red eyes, once black, looked over to see the purple eyed man. She quirked her brow and the arrow flew at her. Her fingers loosened.


    Ying Yue fell.


    Wang Li''s eyes widened as he rushed to his lover. Would he make it in time? He had to run faster dammit! Ying Yue cannot die! He would not-


    He felt his face slammed into the ground.


    ''No!'' He shouted as he was being dragged back and his silver eyes watched as his wife, still a child, got closer and closer to the ground. Summoning whatever strength he still had, he cried out for his loyal cat.


    A shadow flashes, caught the child, and was gone.


    He fisted his hands and coughed deeply as blood colored the dirt underneath him. Footsteps neared him and his head was yanked up. He felt his mask removed and he looked into purple eyes.


    "Ah Chou," he whispered through scratchy throat, "Go back to Ah Zhi. They want me, please, go."


    He tried pushing the man away, but in his weakness, he fell against him instead. He heard more footsteps and he covered the man as he looked over to see both demons staring at him.


    "What to do?" The female tapped her chin and opened her mouth, but a blizzard suddenly blew by. He took advantage of the confusion and obstructive snow.


    He grabbed Mo Chou with him and used the adrenaline to pushing them away from the mountain.


    "Ghost King."


    He ignored him and continued to pull at his wrist to continue, because the demons would come soon and they needed to leave!


    "It is truly you¡­"


    "Ah Chou. Go warn your brothers and other sectors. If they had escaped, more will join. We will need the cultivators. They are at the cabin on the hill in between sectors."


    He was sweating and panting as he was having a hard time breathing. He felt fingers on his face and he turned to see those purple eyes looking at him sadly. His face was cupped and he furrowed his brows.


    "I always envied you, my king. You told me once I was meant to do special things¡­ I am sorry."


    "What are you apologizing for?! Why are you wasting time! Ah Chou-"


    "Forgive me."


    The man whispered and pressed his lips to his. Wang Li tried pulling back, but the man was stronger than him currently. He felt a fire burning in him, swirling inside him as if he was a furnace. He blinked confused when lips parted and he was about say something, but the sound of annoyed voices from the demons made him shut it.


    Grabbing the man with him into the water, he made sure they were hidden behind the foliage as the demons appeared.


    "Where the hell did that blizzard come from?!"


    "From our dear brother," the female hummed, "He will be lost to us soon."


    "Good, that idiot had ruined everything for so long."


    "Now, now, dear, we still need him around. Our other brothers had not been able to escape quite yet, but a bit more prodding will definitely unlock their chains."


    "How are we going to do it?"


    She waved the mask Wang Li wore and laugh cynically.


    "Our brother adores him. If he knew something had happened to his heart, what do you think will happen?"


    "Ah, sister. This is why you should have been the leader."


    "Heh, do tell me more."


    The voices faded and Wang Li was glaring holes at the dirt. This was his doing again. Quickly getting out of the water, he helped the purple eyed man out and stared at him.


    "Your spiritual energy¡­ I didn''t recognize it before."


    "It was hidden. A tale for another time, my king. Let us get to my brother. Do you have enough energy or did you¡­ need more?" There was a flush on tanned skin and Wang Li shook his head.


    "Do you know where your child went? The shadow-"


    "He should be with your brother and¡­ Thank you, for sharing your energy."


    Mo Chou smiled and nodded. They headed back to his brother''s sector, while his mind went back to lips that he just kissed.


    ''Would you believe me, my king, if it was for you? What I did¡­ Would you believe me?''


    When they arrived, they found Sect Leader Zhi screaming at people around him and the chancellor writing on the scroll frazzled with a frown. When frantic eyes saw them, the leader quickly went to them.


    "Your child is recovering with the healers. We are preparing to send out messages to the other leaders. Our charms are gone, all of them."


    "Go to him, Ghost King, I will inform my brother of what is needed."


    "Ghost¡­ Ghost King?"


    "Where is he, Sect Leader Zhi?"


    "Uh¡­ um¡­" the man flustered and pointed out to a servant, "You, bring Sir Pai- our king to where the child is."


    The servant bowed hesitantly and Wang Li followed.


    When he arrived, the blood was wiped off and the scars were still seen on milky skin. Taking a deep breath, he walked in closer and reached for his lover''s small hand. Warm, that was more than enough for his tension to release. The mark of heaven was bare and he glanced over at the healers who was watching him.


    They shyly looked away and exited the room, but he spoke up.


    "How is he?"


    "He¡­ he would need lots of rest. He was stabbed multiple times and he bled a lot. He¡­ since he is chosen from the heavens, I am sure he will heal quickly, Sir."


    He looked at the healer who answered him and bowed in thanks.


    When they were alone, he ran his palm over the side of his wife''s face. Reaching into the sleeve of the child''s, he pulled out the medicinal healing liquid of Han Mo. He parted Ying Yue''s lips to pour some liquid into the child''s mouth. There were not much left in the bottle, so with the last drop falling into his wife''s mouth, he placed the bottle into his sleeve.


    He went to his knees and placed his head against the bed, still holding his wife''s hand. His silver eyes glanced at the shadow that pulsed and moved slowly and he relaxed further.


    "Snow, rest. When we wake, we will go see Ye Wu. It is time."

 Chapter 128 - I Wanted More Time

    Wang Li closed his silver eyes and saw a field of rice before him, swaying in the breeze. His hair blew with the wind and he hummed. Tilting his head off to the side, it confirmed his suspicions. Turning back, he watched the wind moved and danced with the wheat.


    "Do not worry, I will do as I promised."


    "Yet you took it upon yourself once more to do as you wish."


    He fisted his hands for a moment before relaxing as he breathed slowly.


    "I wanted more time."


    "You want many things child¡­ you had created your own river of blood. You must bear the consequences."


    "Yes."


    The presence stayed after another breeze, before he was left alone. Opening his eyes, he stared at the wall before him.


    There was warmth against him and he felt the head resting underneath his chin. He sighed and ran a hand up and down his wife''s back as his arm held him tighter. He could hear the beating of his lover''s heart against him and he relaxed.


    "How long have you been awake?" He whispered placing a kiss to the top of blonde''s head.


    "For a while."


    Ying Yue replied quietly. He was wrapped in the bedsheet since the child''s robe would look indecent on him. He was still in pain, but it was nothing compared to the knowledge of what transpired.


    They wanted to kill Wang Li. They were going to kill him.


    He felt cold hands cupped his face and tilted his head up so he could look into moonlit eyes. He felt cold lips kiss his bare forehead before they moved to kiss his temples, then cheeks, then nose, before lips. With eyes closed, Ying Yue placed his palm against his lover''s curved neck, while his other hand was against the hollowed chest.


    When he opened his eyes, Wang Li ran his thumbs underneath his eyes.


    "I continue to hurt you, my love."


    He offered a smile, but he couldn''t hold it and he let out a deep sigh. He held onto his lover''s wrists and made sure Wang Li was listening to him when he spoke. Made sure his husband would not look away.


    "You do not do it purposefully, Ah Li."


    "Yet it still happens."


    "Yes¡­ It does¡­"


    He whispered and held his lover''s wrist tighter as he let out a small laugh.


    "Whatever happens, my husband, I will always be yours."


    He saw the soft smile appear on his king''s face and he melted into the kiss. Memories of smiles, laughs, touches, and tears filled his heart. He deepened the kiss and moved to straddle his lover. He felt a cool palm slide down his bare back and he shivered, pressing closer. The palm moved up to bring fingernails grazing over his nape and he tightened his thighs.


    The sun was slowly growing over the hills as the lovers kissed and touched. Back to his age, he moved his hand down to palm the bulge growing in his husband''s pant. He swallowed the moan in his mouth and gasped feeling fingers dig into his ass.


    "I need you, my husband."


    He whispered against his lover''s lips and Wang Li lifted him over his hardened cock. Ying Yue slowly entered and let out a deep breath when he was fully seated. He slotted his lips with his husband once more as they moved against one another, feeling the tug and pull. Lips moved to nibble down his neck to his perked nipples.


    A bite and pull made his breath hitch and hips twerked.


    "My love," he panted out softly as his back arched, pushing his chest into those deadly lips.


    "Mm¡­ more, Ah¡­ more."


    Wang Li flattened his feet on the floor and thrusted up, causing him to bounce onto the hardness inside him. Ying Yue''s thighs were trembling and he bit his bottom lip, feeling his hard penis leaking. Mouth took over his panting one, slotting them perfectly for Wang Li to devour him. Ying Yue clenched his hole tightly as the need for release built up. His husband groaned and thrust up harder and he cupped his lover''s face.


    "Come with me, Ah Li. Ah, come."


    "My wife," Wang Li breathed out before the thrust and pull against his skin, the pressure against his prostate, and the mouth sucking love bites on his exposed throat made him climaxed mouth wide with a breathless scream.


    His husband came shooting his cum into him, filling him further and he whimpered, rolling his hips. The throbbing cock in him twitched and spurted more cum, as both panted staring at one another.


    "Ah Yue, do you feel better?"


    "Mm, I always feel better after we lay together."


    Wang Li laughed softly against his lips, recognizing his own words from the blonde''s lips. They kissed slowly, like they had all the time in the world, but they both knew they didn''t.


    ["Oh child, you truly do not know what he is capable of," Ye Wu''s sister, the demon that kidnapped him tsked.


    Ying Yue ignored the female demon as he rushed forward to attack once again. In a small body, he tried to adjust himself, but he was having a hard time keeping up with the demon. She was fast, strong, and sharp. A smack to his face, as if he was nothing but a fly, threw him against the wall with blood dripping from the scratch of the claws.


    "Hm, he used your stupidity against you," She cackled, "What a true demon."


    The blonde narrowed his eyes and he felt a heat against his forehead, as his eyes warmed up in gold. He slashed out his power through his blade, forced to use more of his qi so quickly. The female demon cried when his hit landed. Before he was able to get excited, the female demon growled and appeared quickly before him.


    Hands wrapped around his throat, and his blade thrown aside, the female bared her fangs.


    "You will know soon, child. How truly evil he is."]


    Ying Yue sighed, and his fingernails lightly ran up and down his lover''s chest.


    "What more aren''t you telling me."


    He whispered softly and searched in silver eyes. He felt fingers move up and down his thigh and back.


    "Ah Yue," Wang Li began softly, "I-"


    The clearing of throat was heard.


    They pulled apart and he slid his golden eyes slowly over to see who had witnessed them. Eyes widening and flushing deeply, he quickly pulled the sheet tighter around him. His husband pulled him in closer and he tucked his head away from their audience, burning with embarrassment.


    "It seems you are not as in bad health as the message stated."


    "Cultivator."


    "Ghost King, there is much that needs to be discussed."


    "Yes. Your brother?"


    "Unknown."


    Ying Yue sat up with furrowed brows.


    "Unknown? What does that mean, big brother? Is he alright?"


    "Get decent," the redhead frowned at him and shook his head, "Shameless. We will discuss with the leaders. Be quick."


    Ying Yue''s ears redden even more as his brother walked out closing the door behind him. He attempted to stand, but his lover kissed him deeply. He felt like a feast for his husband as he just clung to the blue robe. He mewled and felt his head dizzy as he was pressed closer to his husband. When Wang Li finally let him go, his lips were bruised and his legs were wobbly.


    The cock in him twitched with interest. He laughed softly licking his lips, pulling off slowly.


    His lover lifted him up easily and he stood in a daze as the sheet pooled at his feet. He felt fabric cover him and he slowly blinked at his husband, feeling the pull to kiss those lips more, longer, deeper. He could hear the sash slid around his waist and tightened. Cold hands smoothed up and down his robe before running into his blonde hair.


    He watched Wang Li smiled at him lovingly and reached for the red ribbon. He was turned and felt Wang Li kissed the back of his head as fingers pulled long strands. When his lover was finished putting his hair into a ponytail, Wang Li tightened the hold with the red ribbon. Arms wrapped around him and lips touched his exposed neck. He smiled and leaned more to expose his neck.


    "Ah Li¡­ we should join them."


    "I know," Wang Li sighed and tucked his head against his neck, "Just a little longer."


    They stayed like that for a few breaths before the pressure against his back was relieved. Fingers interlocked with his and he walked out of the room with Wang Li following.


    When they arrived at the hall, he saw the 4 sect leaders, Xu Ling, and Mo Chou.


    "Heaven''s Chosen, Ghost King," Sect Leader Jing bowed.


    "Let us begin," his brother spoke up, "Level 3 demons are now free."


    "The highest level?! Are you certain, cultivator?" Sect Leader Yang questioned with wide eyes and breath quickening with panic.


    "I was ambushed in my home. My family was taken. My brother''s treasured gift was tossed at me. The demon called for the Ghost King or my family would die."

 Chapter 129 - I Am Already Dead

    Golden eyes narrowed intensely at Wang Li and Ying Yue stepped to cover his lover, as if to protect him.


    "It must be Ye Wu. Do you know where he is, Ah Li. We can stop him together, all of us."


    "Ah Yue," his husband''s voice was soft and he turned fully to face his lover. He felt trembling fingers cupped his face and his golden eyes widened. Wang Li was trembling¡­ his husband had never trembled even from being hurt, so feeling the slight shakes against his cheeks...


    He inhaled sharply.


    "They want me. No one needs to get hurt."


    "No! I won''t let them kill you! We will protect you."


    Wang Li watched as his sweet wife looked at him with big worried eyes. Tears hanging at the edge of his tear ducts and he found himself smiling. No matter where they were, they will always sacrifice for one another like a never-ending cycle.


    ''When will you learn, my love. You cannot save me.''


    "You should let me go," he let out a small smile, "I am already dead."


    Ying Yue''s legs let out and he tumbled forward, clutching tightly to his lover in tears. Shaking his head, he kept saying no over and over again. He felt a hand on his chest and a pained scream escaped his lips. It felt like a searing knife cutting him open and he realized what was happening.


    The dark energy unwrapped itself from his own core and Ying Yue tried to hold onto the only thing he still had of his lover, but it continued to pull away.


    "Thank you for holding onto it," He heard Wang Li whispered, "Now you will no longer hurt."


    "No! Ah Li! Please!"


    He was shouting and crying, but he felt so tired and weak. Wang Li shushed him, rocking him and humming the song, their song. His cries softened and his eyes fell heavy, until all he could hear was the baritone voice of his lover.


    The Ghost King kissed his wife''s temple longingly, before placing him gently on the floor.


    "My king¡­"


    Mo Chou spoke quietly and he closed his silver eyes as he stood.


    "Do not let him come find me," He stated quietly, "I''ll make sure they are not harmed."


    "My brother may not join you, but I will."


    "We will also-"


    "No."


    Wang Li said sternly and looked down at his arm where his energy was pumping strong inside him with a golden tinge. He glanced down at his lover''s sleeping form and clenched his hand, dispersing his power throughout his body. He reached out and called for his sword.


    "Reaper."


    The room chilled as the thin black sword crackled in the hold of her master. Wang Li relaxed feeling the reunion of his blade in his grasp. Looking at the people before him, he glanced back down at his wife.


    "He would not forgive me if any of you were hurt."


    Wang Li paused and glanced at his fingers where the ring appeared, gold etched in the name of his lover. He closed his eyes and pulled the ring off. Handing it to the redhead, he turned and headed off on his way.


    "My king-"


    Sect Leader Zhi cried out, but the redhead stopped him with an arm as his golden eyes stared at the retreating back of the Ghost King. His eyes slid to his brother''s sleeping body and he held up the ring with his fingers.


    "Are we really¡­ letting him go alone?" Sect Leader Yang questioned with furrowed brows.


    "Cultivator," Sect Leader Jing spoke up, "What is your decision?"


    He let out a deep sigh with a frown gracing his face.


    "We will fight. My brother will do everything he could to rush to him. This is how it had been. This is where it will end."


    "You will let him go?" The female questioned, "Even when the Ghost King state not to let him go."


    "I am not his babysitter, what he wishes to do will be done. It is in the prophecy. I will go after my family-"


    There was a knock on the door and the guard spoke up.


    "Cultivator Zhang Han Mo has arrived."


    Xu Ling''s eyes widened and saw his brunette brother walking in, but something wasn''t right. The way he was walking looked languid and his middle brother never slouched in his stance. He noted the twitching of fingers and how pale his brother''s skin looked.


    ''Did the Ghost King knew my brother would arrive?''


    "Brother, where were you?"


    He watched as the brown-haired man turned with his head still lowered to find the blonde on the floor. The redhead narrowed his eyes and stepped to block the view of his vulnerable young brother. He glanced over at Sect Leader Yang who went to drag his blonde brother away.


    This only led to the brunette to laugh slowly, before it turned into a hysteric one. Xu Ling quickly grabbed his charm and smacked it against his brother''s crown.


    The brunette paused abruptly in his laugh and the redhead glanced at the others in the room to find Sect Leader Zhi''s brother was no longer in the room, along with his little brother and Sect Leader Yang. He felt his tension loosen slightly, knowing that if any harm were to come, he knew Mo Chou was a warrior.


    Sect Leader Yang¡­ he doubt the man knew his way in battle.


    His brunette brother snapped his head up suddenly and they finally were able to see golden eyes no longer there. It was covered with inky black ooze and he could see it moving, living inside his brother. Xu Ling reached out and cupped the man''s shoulder, gripping it tightly. He sent his spiritual energy out like bursts into his brother to cleanse the brown-haired cultivator.


    This only resulted in a loud screech from the man. Head thrown back, the black ooze shot out of the eyes of his brother splattering around them. Some were caught on their robes and it slowly was burning holes.


    "Avoid it!" The redhead shouted and he heard screams from warriors who ran in to assist. The inky ooze was burning through their skin and Xu Ling quickly pulled out 3 different charms: freezing, sleeping, and warding. The ooze stopped shooting out and he quickly bound his brother into a barrier of his own.


    "Big brother¡­"


    He did not respond but was intently listening to see what else would be said. He had to make sure this was his brother, not some demon or ghost taking over the brunette''s body.


    "Torture¡­ I was tortured¡­ you weren''t there¡­ you weren''t there!"


    "You are not a child."


    "But you are my big brother! You are supposed to protect me!"


    "You are responsible for getting caught."


    "What!" His brother glared at him, "You! You are rude and mean and nothing of what should be Heaven''s choice! You care for no one! You think Lady Nuying does not know?!" The man laughed as the ooze slipped down his eyes like inky tears,


    "You think she does not know you do not love her? That you only laid with her because you only care for her beauty? She told me! Hah! She could careless because she had your child and the Heaven''s would need to bid her wish or she will kill him. Did you know that?! How perfect you two are, so deserving with such heartlessness!"


    Han Mo laughed and laughed, wheezing as he was on his knees staring at the floor. It was just so funny to him. Everything was funny! He could not stop his grin or the way he felt giddy and angry all at once.


    ''Hate! Hate! Hate! Funny! Laugh! Happy! Hate! Laugh! Hate!''


    "Fu Shen."


    The redhead heard the sharp inhaled of breath. He watched as ink trailed face stared at him with wide eyes. He observed the tension on the once relaxed shoulders, and he narrowed his eyes.


    "Who is he?"


    The redhead waited for an answer from the brunette and he watched the slow blink from his brother.


    "Ah Shen¡­"


    "Who is he?"


    "Ah¡­ Shen¡­"


    "Who is he?"


    "Ah Shen¡­ Ah Shen. Ah Shen! AH SHEN!"


    He saw his brother grabbing his head and a deep scream echoed into the room. He stepped forward, but the bright golden light covered his brother. When the glow left, he could hear the panting from the brown-haired male and he took a cautious step forward.


    "Ah Shen¡­ he¡­" his brother started before he frantically touched around him, "Where is it?! Where is-"


    A small purple perfume bag that weaved to hang under the white crane was held before Han Mo.


    He reached for it and let out a relieved breath. Closing his eyes, he grounded himself and glance up to see his brother kneeled before him. Xu Ling''s warm hand cupped his shoulder and searched his face.


    "I apologize for not being there."


    He let out a soft laugh and wave it off.


    "I can''t believe I got caught. Ah Ling¡­ what I said¡­"


    The redhead shook his head and helped him up. He looked over at the sect leaders and saw some of the warriors with holes in their outfits and burns on their skins.


    "Forgive me."


    "It was not you, cultivator. You were abused," Sect Leader Zhi walked over to him, "Are you well?"


    "Where is Ah Yue or our king? I must tell them what I saw."


    "The Ghost King had left to save you and the others," the female leader stated with creased forehead, "Yet you are here. Did you escape?"


    "He went-! Is Ying Yue with him?"


    "No, he is unconscious," the redhead stated and the brunette swallowed hard.


    "He is walking into a trap. They will kill him. That demon, Ye Wu¡­ brother," his golden eyes stared, "¡­ too strong."


    "What?"


    "He¡­ I felt like I was suffocating being near him¡­ his power is immeasurable. I am unsure how we could defeat him. His siblings¡­ they want him to release their youngest, the only one left in chains, but he refused them. Ah Ling¡­ Lady Nuying and your child¡­"


    "Are they well?"


    "They are not chained."

 Chapter 130 - Fight Together

    The redhead just nodded and the brunette tilted his head with a quirk of his brow.


    "You¡­ knew?"


    His elder brother did not reply and watched the man crossed his arms.


    "Stay with our brother. I will go find them."


    "They are too strong-"


    "Where are they?" Sect Leader Zhi questioned.


    "¡­ I¡­ am not sure."


    "¡­"


    "I was tortured and then all I remembered was darkness. Then I woke up here," Han Mo explained with furrowed brows.


    "Maybe tell us the surroundings, cultivator. That should help us identify the whereabouts," the female leader in gold spoke up.


    He turned to the Sect Leader Jing and closed his eyes to think. What did he remember?


    "No need," the redhead stated, "It is the palace of the Ghost King. Everything leads there."


    As the elder cultivator finished, the floor and roof shook around them. They could hear a shriek from afar and Han Mo''s eyes widened. He quickly turned to the leaders and shouted.


    "He will escape soon! Gather your people and leave, sect leaders!"


    "We will not-"


    "Sect Leader Jing, Sect Leader Zhi, Sect Leader Long, you are all strong leaders, but none of you are needed in battle. Gather your people, protect them," Xu Ling stated gripping his blade.


    "But-"


    "Evil is already on its way to infect the sectors. Once this demon escapes, many more will join."


    "Wait¡­ are you speaking of-"


    "Yes."


    Another shriek sounded and their skin jumped, as the walls shook once again. They rushed out of the room to see a swarm of low-level demons rushing to them.


    "Ready your weapons!" Sect Leader Zhi cried out and looked over to the others, "Your sectors are vulnerable! Do you think-"


    "They would be under attack as well," Sect Leader Jing gritted out and pulled out her sword, "I will fight for all of our sectors, Ah Zhi."


    The leader in blue stared at the female in gold and found himself smiling. Years of knowing one another and she had never changed. He cupped her shoulder and squeezed softly.


    "Then let us fight together again."


    She sent him a smile and nodded. After grabbing a few of his warriors to tell them to escort the villagers, he rushed to the outer edge of his sector with his warriors, his friends, and the cultivators. Shouting out a war cry, he tightened his blade and rushed forward as arrows few above him to the enemies.


    They fought even when the barrier the cultivators placed upon them broke. Then, they bled by claws, teeth, and blades. There were too many demons, too many to stop as they weaved through killing, slashing, eating any person they reached. Sect Leader Zhi felt his back hit his friend''s and he panted with his shoulder bleeding. He reached his hand and grabbed hers, feeling fingers tightened on his.


    "Ah Jing," he said softly as blood splattered around them and screams surrounded them, "It is an honor to fight alongside you."


    "Would it not be more of an honor to stand beside me instead?"


    He slashed a demon with three eyes and six legs, before turning to his good friend. She shook her sword of gut and turned to him. He searched her eyes and found himself flushing from the memory of those same words.


    ["Ah Jing, why do you want to be a warrior? You are a lady and an heir to lead your sector."


    The female looked at him and placed her chopsticks down as she looked at the people walking by. This question was often asked to her. Her father, her teachers, and even her people would question, but her answer remained the same.


    "What should I do if not be a warrior?" She questioned her friend instead.


    "Hm¡­ I don''t know. I guess learn to cook and how to lead your people."


    "That is not the life for me, Ah Zhi. I will not be a ploy in my father''s web any longer. I already have blood on my hands. What more would it change?"


    "Ah Jing. You did not know your father would force Sheng Shui-"


    "I do not wish to speak on that any longer."


    He shut his mouth and saw the regret cross the female''s pretty face. It was a long time ago when she was still young. He remembered He Jing speaking to him of all her regrets of that day. Her father had told her it was time for them to sacrifice a female to the Ghost King. She didn''t understood why. Their king had not done anything, but kept to himself in his palace.


    Her father had told her to get the infamous Sheng Shui drunk, frame him, and they will finally send the shameless man to be dealt with by the Ghost King. She didn''t want to, but her father had power of her decisions.


    He could still see the deep worn regret etched into He Jing''s entire being.


    ''It must be tough being you, Ah Jing. How unlucky are we both to have terrible fathers.''


    "Do you want to be a warrior?"


    The female questioned with her warm brown eyes looking at him.


    "Of course."


    "Why?"


    He hummed and leaned forward with a grin.


    "To protect my people. That is obvious."


    "I wish to protect them as well."


    "¡­"


    "Did you forget your words, Ah Zhi? I never thought I would witness the day you stop talking."


    He watched her laugh as she lifted the teacup to her lips. He leaned against an elbow propping his head up. He saw her eyes looked at him and she quirked a brow.


    "Something on my face?"


    "You''re pretty."


    He saw her eyes widened and the slow redness spreading across her features. Blinking for a moment before his own eyes widened, he sat back and waved his wands before him.


    "No, I mean¡­ you would have scars and you won''t be as pretty, Ah Jing. It would be difficult to find a man to marry if you were a warrior."


    "Then the man who will be my husband must accept that I am a warrior and future leader. He must see me as an equal," she paused and tilted her head to the side, "Do you not want someone who will stand by your side, instead of behind you, Ah Zhi?"


    He just stared at her in silence at that time and watched her return to her father who called for her.]


    But, now¡­ out on the battlefield of where death clung to them like a second skin, he found his answer.


    ''He Jing, I¡­ were you asking for my hand back then?''


    Opening his mouth to answer, he caught sight of a figure aiming a downward slash at them. He pushed Sect Leader Jing to the side and took the slash across his chest. She quickly took care of the demon''s death, before kneeling beside him.


    "Poisoned," she cried out and quickly blocked more attack their way. He struggled to help, but the bubbling of his insides was excruciating. He twisted to the side to cough out thick red blood and heard the joy from a nearby demon.


    It was small and ran toward them with his thick limbs and small neck. He reached for his blade, but realized it was out of his reach. Fisting his hands, he readied himself to use his fists if needed.


    The sound of a crash landed before him, a few feet away, trembling the space around him. The demons paused as if compelled to look at who had arrived. The white robe swayed with the burst of crackling energy around him. They watched as a hand lifted and Sect Leader Zhi felt his talisman tugging from where it laid against his waist.


    ''Is he calling for it?'' The sect leader in blue questioned as he felt the way the air changed.


    He glanced to his side to see the talisman glowing. His eyes glanced over at the incomer and he untied the gift passed down from his ancestors.


    He watched as it flew into the air like a rocket before the sky shook. A veil seemed to cover them and he blinked feeling the air around him calm. The sound of an upset scream sounded and he forgot the demon that was headed his way. The demon jumped but was wrapped up by a thick rope. The man in white tightened the rope and the demon turned into dust.


    He tightened his hand on the female beside him as the strong man lifted a bright sword above him. The crackling of gold and blue surrounded it before it shot out.


    His eyes were not able to follow the lightning, but Sect Leader Zhi saw the aftermath of demons littered along the floor before they turned into dust. Not one of the warriors were hurt, only the evil that fought against them. The blade returned to its owner before shooting out into the sky.


    The blade brightened and crackled loud like a thunder. Then silence before a piercing sound rained as the sword quickly flew away.


    Platinum blonde held together in a ponytail by a red ribbon swayed with the strong energy surrounding him. Golden eyes turned to them and they gasped seeing the glow surrounding the eyes, a straight face, and the full mark of Heaven across milky forehead.


    "Chosen One..."

 Chapter 131 - Block It All Out

    [Earlier- Ying Yue''s POV]


    "Thank you for holding onto it," He heard Wang Li whispered, "Now you will no longer hurt."


    "No! Ah Li! Please!"


    He cried and cried, trying to hold onto his lover just a little longer, but he failed and fell into unconsciousness.


    ''Why? Why does this always happen?!''


    "Ah Yue¡­"


    He opened his golden eyes to see the man with topaz eyes staring at him. He sat up and wiping his eyes and saw he was in a field of flowers, one that belonged to Sheng Shui. The weather was calming with the sun warming their skin. He saw the seam master just staring off into the distance beside him.


    "Have your mind finally cleared, Ah Yue?"


    He looked away and fisted his hands.


    "My mind has always been cleared, Ah Shui."


    He heard the laugh from the man beside him before sighing.


    "I am a part of you, Heaven''s Chosen. I see and feel what you hide¡­" Orange eyes looked at him with pity as fingers ran across his cheek. They grabbed his strands and pulled lightly, tugging the blonde from his lies.


    "I will leave you soon, Ah Yue. Will you be sad?"


    "No," he frowned shaking his head, "You won''t leave. I won''t let you."


    "Eh? What happened to the kind innocent Ying Yue?" The seam master laughed, "Afraid Ah Li will not love you any longer?"


    "I know he loves me, Ah Shui."


    "Then you know what must be done."


    Ying Yue gritted his teeth and held firm as he tried not to think about the outcome of this day. However, his emotions were in turmoil bringing a past to appear before them.


    ["Master¡­" he hesitated, "I¡­ I know something is wrong with him."


    "With the Ghost King?"


    Ying Yue nodded.


    "He''s colder¡­ gets angry easily."


    "He hurt you," the redhead stated with narrowed eyes.


    "I¡­ yes, but! But I still love him. We spoke and he told me he is seeking assistance on understanding what is happening to him. I''m trying my best to help. I fear it is not enough. I need help. Please. Anything to assist me in helping him."


    There was a quietness in the room and the brunette poured them the heated tea. He drank the tea and exhaled a deep breath. Looking at his family, they all seemed to be avoiding his eyes and that worried him.


    "What is it?"


    "Ah Yue¡­" his kind brother spoke up gently, coddling him with his tone, "You should stay here with us again."


    "I''m not leaving Ah Li. He''s my husband, brother."


    "You asked for help, right? Staying here with us, with your family, will help your king."


    "I don''t understand?"


    He saw his brother glanced at their eldest brother and their master, as if asking for permission. He tilted his head to his master who placed his teacup down on the table. The green-haired man sighed and looked at him with sadness and grief.


    "You are cursed, Ying Yue."


    "¡­ what?"


    "Did the Heavens not speak with you?"


    "He had twice, but he, he only said that I was wrong. I thought he meant what I''ve done to help Ah Li. Are you telling me he cursed me?"


    "Ah Yue¡­"


    "What was the curse? I need to know. What does it have to do with Wang Li? I¡­ please tell me."


    "You are the curse."


    He snapped his head to look at the redhead. What did his older brother mean by that? Brows furrowed and forehead creased, as he thought about it.


    "Ying Yue, you said your husband had gone to see the demon. Was there any advice?" His master questioned gently.


    "I''m not sure¡­ sometimes he seemed normal, then other times he isn''t. I don''t think there was much changes, but Wang Li is trying to see if it was the need to create chaos. Madame Yun told me¡­ she told me to let Ah Li fall, let him give in and create chaos but I cannot do that. I cannot leave him and watch him give up all his goodness. I can''t."


    When he was done speaking, Ying Yue was breathing hard and his heart was having a hard time going back to beating normally. Pressing his hand against his heart, the blonde squeezed his fingers, as if to settle the thumps pounding his chest.


    "Ying Yue. Your choice to stay with the Ghost King was not in the Heaven''s plan. Therefore, Jade Emperor had done what he felt was needed."


    "To put a curse on me?!"


    "¡­Yes."


    "What is the curse? Master, please be honest with me."


    "The longer you stay with your husband, the more goodness you take from him, the quicker he gets to being true evil¡­" his master cupped his shoulder and looked at him sadly, "Do you understand, Ying Yue, what you must do?"


    Tears slipped down his face once more and he stood up quickly. He bowed and headed to the door, pausing as he stared at the ground.


    "I understand," he whispered and left the cabin.]


    "No! I don''t! I don''t understand. I don''t want this," Ying Yue clutched his head shaking it vigorously, as if his fate would change.


    Hands held his and pulled it away from his head. He watched as the other blonde shushed him quietly, softly like a child.


    "Since he found out about his purpose, our king had been working hard finding ways to keep you here."


    He blinked his golden eyes at the man and turned to see a memory of Sheng Shui''s.


    Both the seam master and the Ghost King was looking through scrolls and books, engrossed in their task.


    "Are you certain this is what you want, my king? The Heavens¡­ they will not like this."


    "They may punish me, Ah Shui, but if they punish you, I will not let them."


    "Ah, so kind of you, my king," Sheng Shui grinned before sighing, "I will accept my punishment for helping you. It is my decision, dear friend."


    Ying Yue watched as his husband cupped the seam master''s cheek with the softest of smiles. His heart squeezed seeing the intimacy before he saw the man winced. Furrowed brows, golden eyes blinked and blinked and blinked some more. Turning to the man beside him, he looked at the blonde with big golden eyes.


    "He¡­"


    "Mm, a smart king we have, wouldn''t you agree?"


    "But¡­ how would he-"


    "- know that his beautiful kind wife would offer his own soul to merge with mine?" Sheng Shui smiled and he felt his nose tickle as heat raised to his cheeks, "When our souls parted during reincarnation, we always knew you would return to complete your part."


    "Ah Shui¡­ I don''t want to¡­ I can''t¡­"


    "Ying Yue," a baritone voice, the one of his dreams sounded and the platinum blonde turned to the owner of the sound.


    The man in red was smiling at him and his heart hurt even more.


    "It is time. I have waited for many years," the voice sounded sad and he felt like he couldn''t breathe, "Will you not return to me?"


    Sheng Shui stood up and turned to their king, smiling with acceptance and relief.


    "You must pull my soul out, Ah Yue, so it may be returned to him."


    "You will die¡­"


    "I accept all punishment. I regret none."


    Topaz eyes did not wavered and Ying Yue hiccupped as tears fell down his golden eyes. Hands wrapped around his and placed over the seam master''s chest. He could feel his husband''s power flare and danced to his touch.


    "He¡­ he said he gave his core to Ye Wu. Why¡­ I don''t understand!"


    "Neh, dear Chosen One of Heaven, you truly wish to block it all out, don''t you," the man said softly with a shake of his head. He heard his husband''s voice and he turned to see an image of them lying on red sheets, playing with one another''s skin. Sheened with sweat of their lovemaking, Wang Li had a light flush on his skin and relaxed features.


    ["There will come a day, when we must make decisions we do not want. Will you be able to do it?"


    "Mm, as long as you are beside me, my husband. I will be able to surpass anything," Ying Yue leaned in for kisses and Wang Li gave.


    "Hm, what if that decision meant me? To do something you do not want against me."


    "I will not do anything against you, Ah Li. Why are you asking these questions?"


    His king kissed his pout and leaned over him. Ying Yue stared up at his lover as the man cupped his face and stared so deeply, it felt as if Wang Li was etching his face into his mind. The blonde smiled and ran his fingers down his king''s sides and saw a smile curled up.


    "When that day comes, Ah Yue, do not be afraid. I will always be beside you. Do you trust me?"

 Chapter 132 - Bring It Back Safely To Him

    "No," he frowned and slapped his lover in the chest when he felt a bite against his cheek.


    "I see."


    His cheek was licked and kisses were placed all over his face, causing him to laugh. Wang Li kissed him once more and he sighed into it. Silver eyes watched him with those sad eyes, sadness that he could never seem to remove.


    "When I die, my love. Do not be sad."


    "I will be sad, devastated, lonely."


    "Even the Heavens will never keep me from you, my love. I will always return to you."]


    Then they kissed once more, multiple times as if to tattoo their lips to skin. Fingers roamed and touched naked bodies, leading them to another round of expressing their love. Ying Yue turned away when he felt the squeeze against his wrist.


    "Bring it back safely to him, won''t you, Ah Yue?"


    "¡­"


    "Ying Yue."


    "I¡­ why me? I am just-"


    "Ah Yue," the seam master shook his head with a sigh, "Ah Li is not the only one who had to face hardships. Being a chosen is a hard burden to bear."


    Ying Yue cried once again and closed his golden eyes as his words came back to haunt him.


    "Being chosen is an honor, Ah Li."


    "I will never leave you Ah Li, unless you tell me too."


    "I might be an idiot, but Wang Li is smart. Does that not mean we are perfect for one another?"


    "I want you to only love me."


    "I don''t want to sleep alone."


    "Ah Li, I missed you."


    "I don''t want you to be lonely."


    "I love you, my husband."


    "I will do everything to save him."


    "I will protect him."


    "Come back to me, Ah Li. Come back."


    "My dearest husband."


    Then the voice of the Jade Emperor floated through his mind.


    "With your return, you must do what you were chosen for. Bring balance."


    Then the voice of his master returned.


    "You are to kill him. You know what you must do."


    Then the voice of Madame Yun.


    "The heavens will see to it that the prophecy is uphold. Do not make him struggle, Heaven''s Chosen."


    Then¡­ his husband''s voice echoed in his mind.


    "You will be the death of me."


    Ying Yue shook his head and clutched the man before him as he shut his eyes. He cried and cried, but the truth burned in his soul. His heart felt like it was stabbed so deeply, hitting him deadly over and over again. He choked on nothing but lack of air and Sheng Shui held him closer.


    "You should see him, Ah Yue. He prepared and worked really hard for you. He used a lot of his power to create this welcoming world for you, like before."


    "Stop," he mumbled out and cried harder.


    "Don''t be upset," the seam master laughed patting his back, "It is romantic, don''t you think?"


    "No! None of this is romantic! Does he not think about me? How angry I would be? He''s selfish! Selfish¡­ I¡­"


    He heard the sigh against his ear and Ying Yue opened his watery golden eyes to peer over his friend''s shoulder. He was angry that all this was happening, and Wang Li never once told him about his plan. He was upset that his husband never thought about his own feelings and could have left him alone.


    Yet, Ying Yue knew that it wasn''t at all true. Wang Li had told him, but he would never listen. Wang Li was selfish, but so was he. Wang Li did think of him¡­ still was.


    "I am so tired, Ah Shui. I really am."


    "Hmm," Sheng Shui leaned his head against his own head before pulling back. He searched the sad look on the platinum blonde and he sighed. Breathing out a smile he held onto soft cheeks.


    "You''ve dreamed of him for so long, Ah Yue. Be beside him a little longer, before it is too late, won''t you?"


    He could tell Heaven''s Chosen would rather avoid returning back to reality, so he did not need to do what he had to.


    ''Forgive me, Ying Yue.''


    Smashing his lips into the blonde, he could feel Ying Yue trying to pull away. Sheng Shui held onto the face tighter, and then he felt hands on his chest. He pulled away when the fighting stopped and he let out a soft laugh.


    "Bring it back safely to him, Ah Yue."


    Golden eyes blinked widely at him and Sheng Shui smiled to the Chosen One.


    "I will," Ying Yue whispered shakily.


    "Goodbye, Ying Yue. Thank you, for letting me live longer than I should. To let me love him a little longer."


    Sheng Shui whispered and pressed their foreheads together. Ying Yue shut his eyes as his emotions flooded and pushed his hand through, clutching his lover''s essence in his palm. The warmth of Sheng Shui faded and all Ying Yue heard was the man in red''s voice calling to him, as his tears fell.


    "I''ll be waiting."


    ==


    [Earlier event- Sect Leader Yang and Mo Chou POV]


    The redheaded cultivator looked at Sect Leader Yang and he nodded. The young leader went to drag the blonde. He groaned pulling Heaven''s Chosen to the adjacent room. Grunting, he couldn''t believe how heavy the man was.


    ''Shouldn''t he be light like air?'' He frowned reaching the threshold of the new room.


    Leaning the freckled face man against the wall, he sat before the Chosen One and tilted his head. His eyes dragged down from head to toes before back to the sleeping perfect face. The walls shook and the beautiful man fell forward against him. The young leader hummed and wrapped his arms around the blonde with a smile.


    Footsteps neared him and he looked up to see Mo Chou staring at him with narrowed eyes.


    "What are you doing?"


    "Nothing," he smiled but saw the blade pointing at him as the man narrowed his purple eyes.


    "Move away from him."


    "What are you doing?" Sect Leader Yang frowned and glared at the tanned man.


    "Move away from him," Mo Chou stated again and stepped forward, bringing the tip of the blade closer to his neck.


    The sect leader placed Heaven''s Chosen down to lay on the floor and stood up slowly. He hummed with a frown and placed a finger on the blade aimed at him. Moving it, it did not budge and his eyes narrowed further.


    "Do you plan to attack me, Mo Chou. I suggest you reconsider your actions."


    "And I suggest you reconsider yours, Sect Leader Yang."


    "What do you mean?"


    Mo Chou let out a laugh as his brows dipped down low. He stepped forward making the man bred in wealth to step back. He continued until he was before the blonde on the floor.


    "Do you truly think no one will know what you have done, Ah Yang? Playing innocent never suited you."


    The man in green''s brows dipped down low as a smirk spread across his youthful face.


    "I am quite innocent, Ah Chou. Whatever you are accusing me of, I did not do and if I did, you had no proof."


    The young man tilted his head and tapped his fan on his cheek, as his brown eyes assessed the man before him.


    "To accuse the higher class, Ah Chou," he tsked, "Have you not learned from the last time?"


    Mo Chou tightened his hilt on his sword and gritted his teeth. Brown eyes twinkled as Sect Leader Yang''s lips spread wider into a grin.


    "Do you think no one know where you came from? A poor mother with nothing to offer. Instead of being honored for your lord, you spit on his feet and left only to crawl back when he was on his deathbed," the brunette opened his fan to laugh menacingly, "Definitely something a lowlife would do."


    The man in blue laughed and tightened his grasp around his hilt.


    "A lowlife, yes. One who was taken in by pity, but Shu Yang, I at least am unafraid of leaving the palace. Your obsession with Heaven''s Chosen is despicable. Do you think no one speaks of the statues of his naked form in your room? To request such a thing from one of the Heavens," he stepped forward with a slow grin, "You should be honored my king did not kill you where you stood."


    The one in green scowled and stomped his feet, like a bull ready to rush forward.


    "It is all his fault! He stained my beloved Chosen One. No one is to have him!"


    "No one but you?" Mo Chou laughed, "Hah! He would not choose you in any lifetime, Ah Yang. My king would never let you get close to him again."


    A growl sounded from the young man as the air around the man in green rise. Purple eyes widened before they narrowed. Shu Yang attacked with his fan raised to smack against his blade.


    "Do not think me weak, Momo," the young leader mocked out, "The Heavens had rewarded me."

 Chapter 133 - He Will Never Love You

    Mo Chou could feel his footing not holding and so did the sect leader. Purple eyes stared at brown ones with an amused smirk.


    "Heh, they rewarded a little freak like you? What did you do to get that? Lay naked with his statue? Hm? Maybe playing with it instead?"


    The boy''s face flushed red with anger and he was thrown against the wall, causing him to feel his heart tug hard.


    "Do you see me as deplorable! You! You are nothing but dirt under my feet! How dare you insinuate-"


    "Eh, I prefer you hiding behind your stupid fan. You talk way too much, Yangyang."


    A scream and the young leader ran toward him again. Mo Chou did his best to avoid where the blonde laid as he avoided the blows from the brunette. Eyes blazing with the tint of gold, he could feel his arms straining to hold. This close, he could see the small scar at the leader''s neck.


    ''So it was true!''


    His purple eyes blazed and he used his borrowed energy to push the brunette away.


    "What-?!"


    "Do you think you are the only one who was gifted by your faith?"


    Brown eyes searched his face before eyes widened and mouth caught into a scowl once again.


    "You- You! You were the ones to make those despicable temples for the Ghost King?! How dare you come to my sector and place those things!"


    He quirked his brow and it irked the brunette.


    "You say it like I was the only one who played with evil. That mark, Ah Yang, where''d you get it?"


    "What? What scar? I have no scars you stupid man."


    "Your neck, child."


    "I am not a child!" The one in green gritted out and covered the scar on his neck, "I do not need to tell you anything!"


    "Ah, you don''t have to, I already know who gave it to you," Mo Chou straightened his lips and narrowed his eyes.


    They fought once again ignoring the howling of the large demon far away. Their attacks caught robes and skin, leaving blood and fabric in the room. Mo Chou, having more practice in battle, gained the upper hand after kicking the brunette.


    Sect Leader Yang groaned as he used up his temporary power. Pushing himself up, he glared at the purple eyed man.


    "This is not over. I will have him!"


    The brunette jumped throwing anything his hands could grab, anything to give him the upper hand. Mo Chou avoided most of them as he moved forward, itching himself closer and closer to the sect leader. When he got close enough, he reached out to grab onto the front robes of the youth, but his hand was bitten hard.


    Teeth broke through skin as if Shu Yang wanted to tear him apart like a demon.


    He took the hilt of the sword and smack it against the brunette. The young man let out a shocked gasp and Mo Chou stumbled backwards wincing at the gash. Sect Leader Yang was breathing hard, but his teeth were jagged and sharp, eyes were slitting and black.


    "You gave in," Mo Chou stated.


    The brunette grinned and laughed harshly. Licking the blood on his lips, he continued to smile widely.


    "Is it my fault that Sect Leader Bo was so convincing? But who was the one to bring them to our leader?" Black eyes narrowed with a snicker, "Can you imagine your brother''s look of horror and disgust when he found out it was you?"


    Purple eyes narrowed at the man before him. Mo Chou rushed forward swinging, uncaringly of the fact Shu Yang was a sect leader. Blade and claws met, causing a clang from the movement. Blood from wounds inflicted upon one another seeped into their clothing, causing their torn robes to stick to their skin.


    Both were panting, but Shu Yang was grinning, laughing as if what they were doing was funny.


    "Ah Bo had always wondered why you would create such a scheme, but I found out why!"


    "Heh, I am surprised. You are quite stupid, Ah Yang."


    The younger man huffed like an angry bull and pointed a clawed finger at him.


    "You dare again! No one will love you so you go and grovel at the Ghost King''s feet! You are the stupid one! He does not love you!"


    "And Heaven''s Chosen does not love you."


    Shu Yang screamed and fought Mo Chou again until the wounds were too deep, pain was too much, and breathing was too hard.


    "I will¡­ I will go to the Heavens!" Sect Leader Yang laughed, but the cough of blood interrupted his joy.


    Mo Chou was in no better condition on his knees as his eyes blinked slowly. He turned to the blonde on the floor and his purple eyes widened slightly when he saw Heaven''s Chosen awake. He watched as the man stood up, almost like he was possessed. Purple eyes followed the blonde walking toward Shu Yang.


    Black eyes, once brown, stared at his obsession before him.


    "Chosen One," Sect Leader Yang breathed out breathlessly, as if the man before him was all the only air he needed.


    "Sect Leader Yang, you have been poisoned by evil," the blonde spoke softly with his face apathetic, "I will send you to the afterlife."


    Fingers touched his forehead and Shu Yang sighed with his eyes closed. He hummed as he felt himself lighter, like he was floating up to the Heavens. He opened his eyes and remembered those beautiful golden eyes before he saw nothing else.


    Mo Chou coughed and groaned as he sat back on his bottom. Those golden eyes turned to him and he watched the blonde man walk slowly to him. He saw a small smile grace those plumped lips when the blonde bent down to him. Soft fingers pressed against his forehead and he felt a rush of relief overwhelmed him.


    "I''m going to rest for a bit. I am sure you are needed out there."


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "Ah Chou."


    "¡­ Yes?"


    "He gifted you¡­"


    Mo Chou grinned and let out a soft laugh, leaning against the wall.


    "Yes. He did."

 Chapter 134 - For Us

    ["Ghost King! I have returned."


    "I am in no mood, child."


    He watched the king looking out at the moon in the dark of the night. The palace felt empty and he could see dried blood around the area. His king had smears of blood still on his robe and skin, uncaring of the mess. He walked away and reached into his sleeve to pull out a cloth. He found a pail of water beside a dead body.


    He froze for a moment, before he swallowed down the fear and dunked his handkerchief.


    Returning to his king, he began wiping his king''s bloodied hands. Silver eyes turned to him and watched him clean off the blood caked on pale skin. He was just as tall as his abdomen now, not quite an adult, but matured enough to know what happened.


    He looked at his king with his brown eyes and reached up to wipe at the silver eyed male''s neck. The Ghost King grabbed his wrist and stared at him for a moment. He stared right back with a frown.


    "The sad child with the scar on his brow. The one who cried."


    "I am no cry baby, my king. I can fight now!"


    He heard a soft laugh, almost unable to hear if he weren''t so close.


    "Are you not afraid?"


    "No."


    His king wrapped a large hand around his neck and he froze. He forced himself to calm down and watched his king staring at him. His airway squeezed and he opened his mouth to breath. Hands kept in place for a moment and he tried to focus on the breeze blowing past his skin. The Ghost King removed his hold and pursed his lips.


    "You are afraid."


    "Of course I am! You were trying to choke me!" He blurted out frowning and rubbing his neck.


    His king bent down so their face were at the same level. The Ghost King''s large hands wrapped around his to place on strong neck. He blinked widely at his king who closed his silver eyes. The Ghost King wanted¡­ wanted him to squeeze? His small hands tightened, but he pursed his lips.


    Removing his hands, he grabbed the cloth once again and wiped his king''s face. He saw silver eyes blinked at him softly and he pouted.


    "Child, what is your name?"


    "My grammy and papa calls me Momo."


    He continued to clean the beautiful face before him and pulled away with a grin.


    "Your family name?"


    "I¡­ don''t have one."


    "¡­"


    "I just¡­ my grammy and papa said they found me and took care of me. I don''t know where I came from and grammy and papa never told me their family name."


    "I see¡­ are they¡­"


    "No."


    He looked away, but turned back when his king kneeled before him. His brown eyes blinked away his wet eyes. His king reached to cup his cheek and he saw sadness in those silver eyes.


    "It is my fault they are now gone and you are alone. Are you just here to receive your wish to be strong? What would you do then?"


    "I¡­ I will help you."


    "Me?"


    His king''s eyes widened and the beautiful man''s head tilted. He smiled widely and held his king''s hand with both of his.


    "Mm," he nodded, "I¡­ don''t have a home anymore and you¡­ you need help. I will help you."


    "I do not-"


    "I promise, Ghost King! I will help you not be lonely. We are both lonely, aren''t we?"


    He declared and he saw his king let out a laugh.


    "Being my friend, caring for me, you will regret it, Momo."


    "I promise I won''t."


    He heard his king hummed and pressed a finger to his chest. He inhaled sharply and felt a burning in his inside. It itched up to his skin and he scrunched his face, before he gasped in a breath. Blinking to clear himself, he looked over at his king who was watching his reaction.


    Sending a grin, he bowed, thanking his king.


    "Are you certain?"


    "Yes. Whatever you want, my king."


    "Then we will no longer be lonely, will we?"


    "Mm," he nodded and his king stood and grabbed his hand.


    "Thank you, Mo Chou."


    "Did you¡­ did you call me Mo Chou?!"


    His king did not reply as he took him to the kitchen. They walked by decaying bodies and dried blood, but Mo Chou did not care. He will help his king be happy again.


    ''Free of loneliness. It suits,'' he thought with a grin. Wang Li smiled at him and entered the kitchen.


    "Thank you, Mo Chou. You have given me a reason once again."]


    "Heaven''s Chosen, you have half his core. He will need it to gather his power once more."


    Ying Yue searched the tan man''s face.


    "You¡­ you are also part of the plan."


    "You can''t be too shocked," Mo Chou looked to the other side of the room, "He cares so deeply for you, not one person can leave a lasting imprint in his heart."


    "I¡­ I am sorry."


    "Don''t be. I am happy. He gave me a purpose again, helped me reunite with my brother, and gave me a gift I can never repay."


    Ying Yue looked to the wounds on the man''s body, to see the blood pooling, but Mo Chou didn''t seem bothered. A smile on his face and eyes still alive, Mo Chou looked comfortable leaning against the wall.


    His golden eyes blinked slowly as the puzzle pieces fitted into place. Sending demons to Sect Leader Bo- a man already full of pride, creating temples for the Ghost King, and spreading dislike toward Wang Li...


    "You did it¡­ for him, for us. I¡­"


    "You''re welcome. No need to thank me."


    Ying Yue felt conflicted. He was thankful it wasn''t Wang Li who was creating chaos, but he was worried and upset that Mo Chou did. People had died. People got hurt. He shut his eyes and knew in his heart that the fault lied with him.


    All these could had been avoided if he-


    "Thank you, Mo Chou. You''ve given me time to be with him but forgive me for the weight placed on you."


    "Heh, no wonder he loves you," he sighed with a smile, "Stay kind, Heaven''s Chosen. The world needs it. Now, let us go join the war outside."

 Chapter 135 - My Husband Is Waiting

    He struggled to stand and the blonde held him steady.


    "You are hurt."


    "Don''t worry. Come, let us ride over. You know how right?"


    Ying Yue stared at him blankly, before his lips spread into a smile. Helping the purple eyed male outside, they rode his sword to the battlefield. On the way, he could see so many deaths and blood. His lips thinned and his face blanked.


    All these deaths were on his hands.


    "Go, Heaven''s Chosen. I will get off here."


    Mo Chou jumped off before he could say anything, but he was glad the man did. Eyes glowing brightly, he rushed to the midst of battle and called forth his power. Landing loudly, a shockwave of his aura caught the demons off guard. He lifted his hand up to the sky and call forth the talismans gifted to the leaders of each sector.


    ''Ah Li, you knew¡­ even back then.''


    ["Ah Po," Wang Li spoke up and handed the man in gold four talisman, a phoenix etched in each as the crisscrossed ribbon tied around it.


    "Oh, for me?" The young leader smiled happily as his chancellor breathed out a relief.


    "I trust your judgments, Ah Po. You may give it to the others if you feel they are worthy."


    "Are you certain?" Sect Leader Po questioned worriedly. The young leader ran his thumb over the phoenix and glanced up at his king.


    "Believe in yourself, Ah Po. You will become a greater leader than your father."]


    Closing his eyes as he called forth the talismans and they shot into the air forming a strong barrier upon each sector. He could feel the strong dark energy slowly dissipate from his aura. The sound of a growl behind him alerted him of an attack. Quickly pulling out the golden string, a thread of heavens, he shot behind him to wrap it around the demon''s ankle. Ying Yue send his spiritual energy through the thread and pulled hard.


    The demon turned into dust.


    Glowing with his excess power, he ran his fingers over his blade to capture his qi. Calling his blade to the sky, he sent it to aim for all the demons within the sectors. He heart was heavy and his mind was foggy. Taking a deep breath, he watched as the demons screamed and fell from his blade.


    He heard his brother call to him and he turned.


    Xu Ling took steps toward the blonde and searched the stoic face. This look had never been a part of the youngest face before and it unnerved him.


    "Heaven''s Chosen."


    He handed the ring to him, the one the Ghost King had left with him. The face did not change. There was no sadness, no tears, no questioning. What remained was the face of a stranger. Narrowing his eyes, he quickly pointed his sword at the blonde''s neck and frowned.


    "Who are yo-"


    "I am your brother," the blonde finally spoke and it sounded like the ripples of the water, "I understand now."


    "What?"


    His blonde brother looked up at the sky, ignoring the pained scream from afar. The reds covering blues as warm rain fell, before the wind blew them dried. Glowing eyes closed for a moment before he looked down at the ring in his palm. He slipped in on his middle finger beside his ring and held his hand out as his blade returned.


    He flicked his sword to rid of the blood and organs of demons, before stepping onto it.


    "Where are you going? We still have-"


    "My husband is waiting."


    "Are you going to stop him?"


    Ying Yue looked away and nodded.


    He got on his sword and left to the place he first met his best friend, the first place he kissed his lover, the first place they were wedded, the first place they made love.


    He closed his eyes feeling the breeze flew by, pushing him hard to keep him back. The howling of the demon that embodied his brethren echoed into the air and Ying Yue forced his qi to surround him. With a burst of speed, he neared what once was his home.


    ==


    [Wang Li POV- Palace]


    When Wang Li left his lover, unconscious and safe, he was ready to do as he promised.


    Snow appeared beside him and he reached to hold onto the fur coat. They rode through the darkness until they arrived at his palace. Demons and ghosts turned to him with scowls and growls, knowing once he was their king, their capturer, their leader.


    However, they could smell his weakness, but there was a sliver of strength as well.


    One with claws and a snout, resembling that of a wild wolf, tested before them all. Thinking the weak looking man was no longer their king, he attacked only to be cut swiftly and cleanly in half. A rumbling sounded through the crowd and many looked on with interest. They watched as the man and the big cat, the king''s loyal pet, headed to the doors where their new king sat for many days.


    The doors opened and shut loudly behind them as the monsters waited for their turn to kill.


    Wang Li could feel the energy that once belonged to him screaming in anger, untamed and crying. His silver eyes caught the hand shooting out to him and Snow caught the arm in his large mouth. The tear of skin and bones could be heard and the demon howled in pain. The large cat chomped harder and ripped out the arm, scattering blood with the movement.


    "You stupid-"


    "Ah Li."


    The sound of the eldest demon, many centuries old, spoke up like a whisper. Red eyes looked at him and Wang Li steadied himself.


    His old friend stood from the makeshift throne and walked slowly to him. Fingers reached out and caressed his cheek as the face neared him. Silver eyes caught the purplish black veins running up temples, jaws, and eyes.


    The fingers wrapped around his neck swiftly and he winced.


    "What have you done to me?!" Ye Wu seethed out.

 Chapter 136 - I Trust You

    The hand wrapped tighter and Snow growled waiting for his master, but the former king did nothing. The female demon sauntered over laughing and placed and arm around her brother''s shoulder. Her red eyes slid to him with a grin.


    "He does not speak because he knows, dear brother. He played you, used you, and will destroy you."


    Hand tightened around his neck and he gripped the hilt of his sword but did nothing. Wang Li did not struggle, nor did he fight. His silver eyes continued to investigate red ones that were laced with anger.


    "Release the little one, brother, and we will show them all that we cannot be controlled."


    Wang Li felt the air leaving him and he closed his eyes for a moment, returning to when he asked for the demon''s help.


    ["This amulet¡­ it holds your power, your core¡­ and you wish to gift it to me?"


    Ye Wu stared at the artifact that Wang Li had been sweating over for many years. The Ghost King held the bronzed amulet wrapped in dark energy and stared at him. He nodded to the demon and Ye Wu hummed as he thought.


    "Why?"


    "I wish to be with him, Ah Wu. If it means to give up my powers to be with him, then I will. Ye Wu, I made a promise to you that I cannot complete. If I give you the power to, then you can do as you wish, but I ask only that you do not release your siblings. No one is prepared to battle them right now. Do I have your promise?"


    "Who said I would accept?"


    Ye Wu frowned, but his eyes kept glancing at the amulet as the power continued to call to him.


    "I hear them, Ah Wu, what they call you."


    He looked at his king for a moment, before narrowing his eyes. Letting out a laugh, he shrugged as if to say it didn''t bother him. A hand touched his bicep and he looked over to the man in red.


    "You are not weak. You never were, Ah Wu, and I do care about you. You are my family."


    Ye Wu watched the small genuine smile on the youth''s face and he sighed. Taking a hold of the amulet, he thumbed it and observed it. The form of a phoenix in the middle of a ring with its wings spread out.


    "How long do I get to play with your power?"


    "As long as you do not free your siblings, you may have it for centuries."


    "Huh¡­ this is your core, Ah Li. Are you certain you trust me with it? I may just never give it back even if I let my siblings free."


    He looked at the demon and let out a small laugh.


    "I trust you."]


    "I trust you," Wang Li reminded the demon and reached his fingers out, trembling as it went. The fingers around him tightened more and he fought back the unconsciousness that wish to take him under. Fingers touched the demon''s mark under the demon''s left eye and ruby eyes widened.


    Fingers removed from his neck and Wang Li fell to his knees coughing, as he tried to intake air.


    He heard the groan from his friend and looked up, only to have hands around his throat again. This time, he was staring at the female who tsked at him.


    "I will kill him for you, brother."


    "No!"


    Ye Wu pushed her clear across the room through the wall.


    "Brother! Don''t you dare choose him again! He abandoned you, imprisoned you, and you still go to him?! We will be free with his death!"


    The demon with one arm and one leg tried to balance himself. He reached out wanting to attack, but the growl from the beast made him thought against it. He looked to the side and found his sister tossing away the woodchips off her.


    "You dare put your hands on me?! You pathetic weak nothing! I cared little that you care, but to still wish to protect this one!"


    The female demon growled and rushed to them with long claws and teeth, but Ye Wu lifted his hand and tendrils shot up from the ground to wrap around her. She struggled against it and screamed as the spikes dug into her skin, piercing her deeper.


    "Be lucky you are my sister or else you would be dead."


    "You-"


    "Actually¡­ you were never my sister, were you?"


    Ye Wu grinned and with a movement of his wrist, the tendrils snapped the female into parts as she screamed. The sound of gurgling blood made Wang Li fist his hands and gripped onto the demon''s wrist. Red eyes turned to him blinking innocently as if he did not just killed his own sister. The scream and distraught of the other demon reminded them of his presence.


    This only led to Ye Wu doing the same to him.


    "Ah Wu, what are you doing?!"


    "Hm? They were getting annoying and-"


    A groan sounded aloud and the demon perked up.


    "Ah! That is right."


    The shrieking was louder and more painful before it was silent. The walls and floors no longer shook, but a strong odor of decay could be smelt through the walls of the palace. The demon grinned at him and cupped his face.


    "My dear Ah Li, look at you. You look as though you have died¡­ oh wait! You are!"


    Ye Wu laughed loudly as if what he said was the most humorous of all.


    "Ah Wu, return it to me."


    The humor on the red eyed demon fell and eyes narrowed into a glare.


    "No."


    "You broke your promise-"


    "Heh, I told you, child," Ye Wu patted his cheeks and shrugged stepping back, "I may never give it back to you."


    "You promise-"


    "Promises, promises," the man waved away and twirled around with his arms outstretched, "Who needs those? People are pathetic. Come, my dearest, tell me about your journey."

 Chapter 137 - Youve Done Enough

    "Ah Wu, you are unable to control my power. It is killing you."


    He walked cautiously toward the red eyed demon to see the curl of lips twitched. Sweat was building up across the forehead, veins pulsing on his face, and the paleness of his skin told Wang Li that Ye Wu will not be able to handle it any longer.


    However, the demon growled and the wind around him was thick, pushing Wang Li back toward the wall. He slitted his eyes to search for the amulet and found it hanging low off the neck of Ye Wu.


    The human skin of the demon''s was being eaten by the dark clouds wrapping around him. He held up his blade before him and called for his power to return. As if it knows their true master, the evil power headed to him. The energy flowed around him, recognizing his blade, but it continued to circle him.


    ''Dammit!''


    A growl was heard from Ye Wu as a long scythe swung toward him. Catching his arm and ripping his sleeve, Wang Li barely avoided the blade. Blood trailed down his arm, but the silver eyed man was unbothered.


    He stared intensely at Ye Wu and slashed out his power. The energy forced through the darkness toward the red eyed man and the demon shot out the dark energy against it. Wang Li forced the control of his power to join his attack.


    Ye Wu''s eyes widened as he was trying to block it with his weapon, but the push forced him to stumble. Wang Li took that advantage and sent out Snow to swiftly claw at his friend and the demon fell backwards.


    Growling, Ye Wu''s eyes glowed and caught the big cat in tendrils and attempted to rip the leopard apart for daring to harm him. However, Wang Li had gotten close enough to stab him in the shoulder.


    "Ah Wu, this is enough. You''ve done enough."


    His silver eyes reminded him of a time when Wang Li was a child, so na?ve and willing.


    ["Ah Wu," Wang Li looked at him from where he laid, "Do you have brothers and sisters?"


    He hummed and turned to the child who''s eyes always stared at him with empathy. He quirked a brow and leaned on his side with his elbow propped up. Twirling the child''s long lock around his finger, he grinned.


    "Eh, you worried about me child?"


    "Are you lonely?"


    His grin fell and he tugged the strand around his finger and leaned closer. Moonlit eyes did not waver, and he gritted his teeth. He felt warm palm on his hand and he saw the small smile grace the youth''s face.


    "We shall be lonely together."]


    "Ah Li¡­" he whispered as the child, now an adult, watched him with soft eyes, "What¡­ what has become of me?"


    "I am sorry, Ah Wu. Return the amulet to me. I did not think thoroughly."


    He reached out to touch the scarred face and ran his thumb over the mark he placed.


    The demon mark, his kind, his family.


    [Pain. The pain was as if he was dunked into the freezing cold and doused in fire. He could feel his left side numbing like the Ghost King''s energy was burning through his veins. He gritted his teeth and fisted his right hand forcing a grin to his face. Wang Li was watching him with furrowed brows, so he continued to force the darkness to stay within him.


    "Are you alright?"


    "Hm, your power is quite overwhelming, Ah Li."


    It itched him and made him want to claw out his skin, but he kept it sutured together by his will. His heart was being covered, abused by the evil energy of the man before him, but he refused to show his weakness. He finally held the power to use however he wished.


    Gritting his teeth harder, he felt the searing of the amulet against his palm.


    "Maybe I overestimated¡­"


    Wang Li frowned and reached for the amulet back, but Ye Wu stepped away from reach.


    "You wish to take it back? Heh, no, my dear child. I have not gotten the chance to play with it yet."


    "It won''t be long, Ah Wu."


    "Yes, I know."


    Ye Wu saw the relieved breath of Wang Li and an appreciative smile. He grinned away the pain as it numbed his insides, clutching at his heart.


    If it wasn''t black before, it was now.]


    "You lie. You thought thoroughly. You just didn''t care!"


    Ye Wu gripped Wang Li''s shoulder and pierced his claws into him. Blood gushed as the once king screamed, pushing away from him. Skin tore and splattered against his face. Wang Li gripped his wounded shoulder and he smirked. Using his long tongue to lick the blood on his face, he hummed with arousal at the taste of Heaven.


    Eyes darkening, he rushed forward shooting out the evil energy like sharp shards. Needle points aimed at the raven-haired male as they flew.


    Wang Li used his sword as a shield and felt his energy in him lessen. Gritting his teeth, he swung his sword to give him some clearing, but they continued to pierce him.


    ''Snow!'' He cried inwardly and the big cat disappeared from the hold of tendrils to appear behind Ye Wu. Large teeth bit into the demon''s shoulder, causing the aim to falter. Wang Li tried to reach for his power once more.


    He had to pull it back to him and grabbed the amulet before the red eyed man was overcome with evil.


    ''I may not have my core, but you are still mine!''


    Wang Li glared at his own power, before he felt his head slam through the wall. He landed with a bounce on the ground outside, where demons waited for their new king. Wang Li coughed as blood slipped off his lips and he struggled to sit up. Snow stood before him, protective of his master, while watching the new king stomped toward them.


    "You dare!" Ye Wu shouted angrily, "This is my power now, not yours! You had always taken advantage of what kindness I ever had. This time, there is no more."

 Chapter 138 - Hello My Husband

    The evil energy flared out and each demon around him growled as they became stronger. He pushed himself to stand and stared sadly at his friend. The man only sent back a scowl and shouted.


    "I do not need your pity! Go! Kill him."


    The demons howled and crowded him. He stabbed, slashed, avoided, missed, and fallen but he continued to fight.


    Snow did his best to keep his master safe, but he also struggled with so many without his master''s true power. Yet, he was not going to give up, just like his leader.


    The sky brightened like lightening and flashed in colors.


    ''Ah Yue. You are coming,'' his heart sighed.


    Wang Li fought through the crowd with Snow to give them breathing room. He found himself smiling even when Ye Wu rushed to him. He kept smiling as a blade pierced his chest and blood painted his lips. He kept smiling when red eyes widened and shook, before struggling to pull the sword out. He held onto the blade and lifted his sword to pierce into his old friend.


    "Ah Li¡­"


    He pushed harder and broke the amulet, as the demon struggled.


    "Thank you. You have done much for me, Ah Wu."


    He could feel his core slipping back into him, beating, pulsing inside him. His darkness cried and screamed, before it swayed happily. They entered him, filling his body and limbs, and he breathed it in. The familiarity of it relieved much of the tension he was feeling.


    Pulling the sword out of his friend, the demon groaned and rubbed his head.


    "Ah Li?"


    "Are you alright, Ye Wu?"


    The demon shook his head, trying to clear his head, before blinked staring into silver eyes.


    "You back?"


    "Mm."


    "Your power is itchy," the demon groaned and rolled his shoulders, "Did I hurt you?"


    "It is healing. Do not worry," he glanced at the sky, "He is on his way."


    "Are you certain this is what you want, Ah Li?"


    Wang Li did not reply and walked into the hall with the monsters bowing to their rightful king. He sat down and waited for his wife to enter the halls, confront him, fight him. Closing his eyes, he felt the presence of his pet beside him. Reaching out, he ran his fingers through those spotted fur and heard another voice.


    His wounds were closing up slowly and he didn''t bother wiping the blood off his scars.


    "My king."


    He slid his silver eyes to the female holding the child''s hand. Pink hair and black eyes stared at him, waiting for his words. He curled his lips slightly as he looked at the child.


    "Child," he spoke up and big black eyes stared at him, "Go play with Snow."


    The big cat got up and walked over to the boy with sparkly eyes and nuzzled against the pet. Once they were away, the female took steps closer and sat beside her king.


    "What more do you wish of me?"


    "Lady Nuying, you''ve done well. Your wish, I will grant it."


    "I¡­ I thank you."


    "Ugh! Really?! Why?!" Ye Wu shouted with hands on his hips, "She should be stuck in a cage for her sins!"


    "Ah Wu! How many more times must I apologize to you?! You have tortured me for many centuries. Is that not enough? Is capturing his heart not enough?"


    "His heart was always mine."


    Ye Wu growled and his red eyes blazed, but Wang Li sighed and held out his hand to stop the male demon. He felt tired, so very tired.


    Wang Li looked at the entrance, waiting for his wife to enter. There was nothing more to do, but for his wife to finish his duty. There was no more time left, no more days for them to live, and yet he still wished for more.


    ''What change would occur? The Jade Emperor wishes for the prophecy to complete, and so it will.''


    Wang Li turned to the female and he touched the female''s forehead, releasing her of her chains to the Netherworld. The female took a deep breath, as if she was able to take in clean air once more. Tears welling, she bowed to the floor over and over thanking her king.


    "You are ready to go reincarnate, Lady Nuying."


    She kept her head lowered before lifting slowly, still staring at the floor.


    "My child¡­"


    "Will stay with the cultivators."


    "I¡­ Ah Ling¡­"


    She shut her eyes and clenched her fingers into her clothed thigh. Tears welling up, she could feel her face warming up with the need to cry.


    "I¡­"


    "I told you not to fall in love."


    She looked away as her nose twitched, holding back the tears.


    "My apologies."


    "There is no need to apologize, Lady Nuying. My brother cares for you deeply."


    They looked over to the man they were waiting for. The platinum blonde walked in with confident and his face determined. Golden eyes glanced at all present before staying at the head of it all. He tightened his hold on his handle and stared into silver eyes.


    "Hello, my husband."


    "Hello, my wife."


    Ying Yue just stared at his king, his handsome lover sitting and staring coldly at him. His heart still beated happily for his husband, but he felt his face crestfallen. Taking a deep breath, he clenched his jaws.


    "Why?"


    "Why?" Wang Li grinned with his brows dipped, "Why not?"


    "Because I love you, Ah Li. I love you. I will always love you, my husband."


    He said softly and silver eyes continued to stare at him in that coldness as the room begun to freeze like icicles.


    "I know you love me. I know you are doing this for me. Sheng Shui told me what you''ve done. I¡­ in my ignorance, I did not see or care for all those foreshadowing. I only wished to be by your side and in doing so, I forced your hand. Made you create chaos. Please, forgive me."

 Chapter 139 - You Are A Fool

    Ying Yue felt his eyes watered and he dropped to his knees. He bowed lowly, not caring that his husband could end him right there. All he wanted was his lover, even now in his selfishness, he just wanted more time together even if it was hurting them more. He cried softly and drowned in his sorrow.


    Footsteps neared him and rough fingers lifted his head, curling under his chin.


    "This love of yours, only causes you tears, pain, sorrow. You are a fool to love me. It is hopeless."


    "No," he whispered, "Hopeful."


    Silver eyes widened slightly and the grip on Ying Yue''s chin tightened before he roughly pushed the blonde away, taking back the rest of his core. Wang Li turned away and walked back to stand where he was, breathing in the connection of his broken core, now whole once more.


    More footsteps entered and Wang Li noted the others had arrived. An army of all sectors gathered before them, ready to fight as they should. He was the enemy, the evil entity living and ruining their lives. The demon who killed their brethren, children, family.


    Silver eyes glanced back at the blonde who was still crying, hiccupping with tears.


    ''Hopeful and everlasting, my beloved. Do not forget that.''


    So, closing his eyes, he accepted his role. His eyes turned red, the mark no longer hurting under his left eye. Wang Li felt calmed.


    Playing his part, he looked over at Ye Wu who rushed forward, armed with nothing but sharp claws and excitement for blood. He glanced at the female beside him to see she was staring at the redhead.


    "Xu Ling," He called out and the redhead turned to him with a glare, "Watch closely."


    Ye Wu''s tentacles wrapped around bodies to rip apart, but the one that caught the redhead''s leg, kept the cultivator from running to the pink haired female.


    "Yingying!"


    "Please forgive me, Ah Ling," he heard her say before the Ghost King smacked a palm at her back, making her stumble forward. Xu Ling reached out, as if to catch his lover, only to receive nothing but air, as the dust slipped through his fingers.


    "NO!!!" Xu Ling cried and turned to hack the tendrils around his legs.


    Ying Yue turned from his battle against the horde of demons that entered the palace to hear the scream.


    Lady Nuying was gone.


    Heart dropping he finished slashing and stabbing the lowly demons to rush to his elder brother. The roar many meters away sounded and Ying Yue knew more demons were on their way. Stabbing the tendrils multiple times, it finally released the redhead, but then he heard screams when tendrils ripped warriors apart.


    Xu Ling ran forward in anger, ignoring the limp from his captured leg, to attack the Ghost King. However, as his sword swung, the large cat caught it in his mouth with a growl. Jumping back, Snow let out a loud roar that echoed the palace.


    "Snow! Stop!" He cried, but the snow leopard swiped its large paw, taking down multiple warriors.


    More fell and he heard the scream from Han Mo, as the sharp claw caught his brother''s arm. Another round of demons entered and Ying Yue placed a barrier over them to keep the new horde at bay. Yet, they were hungry, ready for battle and blood.


    He glanced over with blood stained robe at his husband to see Wang Li just staring at him coldly.


    ''Is this truly how it will end, Ah Li?''


    Ying Yue felt a pierce against his bicep and stabbed the demon away. Hissing from the pain, he saw Ye Wu happily ripping the warriors, Snow fighting with Xu Ling, and Han Mo warding off the demons.


    He wished Mo Chou, Sect Leader Jing, and Sect Leader Zhi were fighting alongside them. They did not have enough warriors for this fight and so many will die. He could send his blade out and kill the demons coming, but he would not have a weapon against the ones now. They were cramped inside of the palace throne room like sitting ducks.


    He finished his slash and paused.


    ''This was what he wanted.''


    His hands trembled and his heart shook.


    ''He just keeps watching, waiting¡­ for me. This won''t end until¡­''


    He looked over at his husband with big sad golden eyes. Voices of those he knew echoed in his mind, vibrating into his heart.


    ''Remember, Ah Yue, he loves you.''


    ''There will come a time you will have to make a choice. That decision is yours.''


    ''You know now. You know what you must do.''


    ''Since you returned, does that not mean you will finish your job?''


    ''Stop being selfish! How many more will die? Han Mo, me? Was master not enough?''


    ''You were chosen to bring balance, but you chose selfishness. With your return, you must do what you were chosen for, bring balance.''


    ''My nephew will fall. Do not make him struggle, Heaven''s Chosen.''


    ''Do not worry, Madame Yue. My king will always come back to you.''


    Clutching tightly to the hilt of his blade, those words from people around him blared like neon lights in his mind. Tears slipping down his face, and he rushed to his king, his lover, his husband, his best friend.


    ''You do not need to be cold, Ah Li. I cannot take it.''


    Their blades clashed and static electricity shot through the room as his golden eyes stared into red ones.


    ''I do not like these eyes, Ah Li. They are not you. I want to see those eyes that I''ve dreamt about, those eyes of the moon, warm and calm. My husband, please.''


    Wang Li looked sadly at him before his eyes glowed redder. Bleeding with skin torn and ripped, The Ghost King looked as though none of it bothered him. The Ghost King swung his blade and a burst of strong dark energy aimed toward him. Ying Yue blocked it quickly and his husband attacked again.


    His face was cold like the weather and he stayed on the defense.


    They fought around the palace, up on the roofs, and through the empty rooms. Dust and papers flew around them, like the closing of a chapter. Landing at their favorite place where the plum blossom trees bloomed, Wang Li narrowed his eyes.


    "You are holding back."

 Chapter 140 - Last Dance

    "I¡­ I don''t want to, my husband. You are everything to me."


    "Everything never lasts, my wife, even love."


    "No, my love will forever grow for you."


    Wang Li''s lips curled into a soft smile as the red eyes flickered.


    "Then you are an idiot."


    "Then it is a good thing I have you, right Ah Li?"


    Wang Li laughed like what he said was hilarious and incredibly stupid. Mouth wide in laughter and hand gripping the deadly sword, Ying Yue wondered how long his lover was acting. How good he was at hiding.


    "You are a fool. The biggest fool," Wang Li laughed loudly, "All this time I had played you in a game that I easily won."


    "What? S¡­ Stop it. Ah Li! I know you are lying!"


    The laughter died down and Wang Li looked at him with such pity in those blood colored eyes. It made everything in Ying Yue froze as his face became pale.


    "Since the day I knew I was chosen, I made friendship with the strongest demon, Ye Wu. I seduced him into making me a part of his clan. Got into his heart so he could do no harm to me. I used him. Made him give me everything I wanted, even his dark heart. He killed anyone I ask him to. Those 40 nights I was gone, my wife, do you know what I did? I planned. I killed. I enjoyed it."


    Ying Yue shook his head, disbelieving what he was hearing.


    ''No, no, no! This isn''t true!''


    "I always known there was another chosen when my mark moved. I brought you to me, Heaven''s Chosen. I played your heart and mind. You were so easy, so innocent and na?ve. You gave me your heart so quickly and your body so easily. I made you crave me, obsessed with me, made me your world. Even now, you are trying to find a way to forgive me, aren''t you, Ying Yue."


    Wang Li grinned when he did not reply.


    "I played a doting lover, one warped with pain and a curse, only wishing for your love. You easily fell into my trap, gave me time to set up everything. Your death should have been all that I needed to bring this world into disarray, force the hands of the Heavens and it did for some time. No one could stop me even if they tried."


    Ying Yue shook his head and tightened his hold on the hilt of his sword.


    ''This isn''t true. Wang Li just wants me to be angry. He is lying.''


    "My silly wife, you still don''t believe me, do you?"


    "You think I am not honest still? I placed my own power within you to stroke your love for me, to do no harm to me. Why would you care for me so much if not for that? You do not give the same treatment to your own family or the people who pray for your protection. You are Heaven''s Chosen, the one to bring balance and treat all with equal fairness."


    Ying Yue gritted his teeth as his nose flared from holding back the tears in his eyes. The stillness in the air only made the words his husband was spewing like knives against his skin.


    "I had Ye Wu killed your master, even when the demon loved him. I made Sheng Shui hold my core even when I knew I was killing him. I knew Mo Chou would be loyal to me, do whatever I asked of him. Such stupid, stupid fools. Even now they still love me even when I am their death. Just. Like. You."


    The grin on his lover''s face made his heart drop and he swallowed hard.


    "Don''t be afraid, Ah Yue. I have never lied to you before."


    ''He¡­ is right. I¡­''


    "You told me you love me. I am your purpose. I am your path. You will always find me and that I hold your heart. Those were not lies then, is that correct, Ah Li?"


    He saw the grin flattened into a thin line and Ying Yue squeezed his hands.


    "I am not the most intelligent person, nor am I the most of anything, but I know this," he stared at his lover dead in the eyes conveying his confidence in his words, "You brought me back. You found a way to return me to you. You love me and I love you. Our hearts are intertwined and no matter what you do or say, I know you are good, Ah Li.


    Even if this was all a lie to you, even if this was all created just to make me look like a fool, for me to resent you, hate you¡­ I believe in what I know and it is this: our paths will always cross no matter where we are. We may be fated to complete the prophecy, but we are also destined to love. Even if you¡­ even if you did use our friends, use me, I know you have purpose in doing so and that purpose is good.


    It may be for a selfish cause, but I can feel it in my heart and soul that all these reasons are to save this world. Ah Li, my husband, you are just a big of a fool as I am, aren''t you? Let us be fools together."


    He finished with tears prickling the corner of his eyes as he grinned.


    "You are a fool."


    "Ah, the biggest, I know. You made me obsessed after all."


    He said lightly back, as if they were back to those days where light jabs and playing games were entertaining. He let out a quiet laugh and saw the incredulous look on Wang Li''s face.


    He watched the chill of the night played with his husband''s raven hair and the beautiful blue robe stained in blood. Ruby red eyes gone for moonlit silver. He wished to reach out, hold his husband once more, but the look in Wang Li''s eyes told him everything.


    Acceptance.


    Rain fell on them like the time before.


    "It was not a lie, Ah Yue."


    "I know."


    "All of what I said."


    "I know. You deserve to be loved, Ah Li. Please let us. Please let me."


    "Ying Yue¡­"


    Wang Li searched his face and he only smiled back. He saw silver eyes softened and a small shake of raven locks caused his golden eyes to follow the movement. The colors around him, the brightness of the trees, the palace and buildings, and even his lover''s robe was fading.


    "Let us dance one last time, my wife," Wang Li whispered, and he inhaled deeply. Ying Yue steadied his stuttering heart and nodded.


    "Alright, Ah Li. As you wish, my love."


    The rain slowly turned into snow as they danced with their blades like old lovers. Memories of the first time they crossed blades came to their minds.


    ["Ah Li!" He said excitedly at the front of the palace, "Feel!"


    "You''ve gotten stronger," Wang Li nodded with a smile.


    He pressed his own palm against the boy''s chest and grinned when he felt the raven-haired boy was also stronger.


    "I brought my blade if you want to spar," the blonde smiled happily.


    "You are excited today, Ah Yue," the boy in red invited him in, "Okay. Let me grab my sword."


    "Ready whenever you are!" He called out to see the smirk on Wang Li''s lips.


    "This would be the first of many, is that right, Ah Yue?" The boy in red readied his sword.


    "Here in your palace?" He questioned with glittering eyes.


    "As much as you''d like," the chosen one nodded and the blonde couldn''t fight the excitement rushing in his blood.]


    Snowflakes covered them as they twisted and twirled in a song of their own.

 Chapter 141 - The Petal Fell

    [Ying Yue watched as Wang Li went behind him to place those large hands over his to grip the sword''s hilt. Lifting it up, he moved along with the Ghost King and he found himself smiling.


    The swing of the blade, the stretch of his arms, and the twists of his body seemed to spark something in Ying Yue. It felt almost like¡­ it was natural for him, like this was what he was meant to do. When they finally stopped, he was breathing hard, but the smile did not leave his face. Sweat slid down his temples, but it did not deter the blooming of his happiness. He had not felt this alive in so long¡­ he wasn''t sure if he ever had before.


    They moved in sync as if they were part of a whole, unified into existence. The warmth against his back and the beat of melody harmonized with their breathing. Turning so he could face his king, he smiled wider and opened his mouth to thank him, but the press of those thin lips touched his.


    Lips that he would remember for all his life.]


    They parted underneath the darkening sky and their eyes met, taking them into a deeper state of just the two of them.


    ["So, you are Ying Yue," Madam Yun looked suspiciously at him with narrowed eyes and a frown, "What do you want with my nephew."


    "I don''t want anything," he said looking over to Wang Li, who smiled over to him.


    "That is a lie," the silver haired female stated, "Everyone wants something in life and from people. Let me ask you again. What do you want from my nephew?"


    Ying Yue looked away and down at his lap for a moment. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath before facing the older female.


    "I apologize, Madame Yun," he bowed, "You are right. I do want something from Wang Li," he moved his green eyes to silver ones, "I want him to love me, I want him to care for me, but more than that¡­ I want him to be happy."


    He saw the raven-haired male smile and he returned it, but Yun was not finished with her questions.


    "And if his happiness is not with you, what would you do then?"


    "I would be heartbroken, but¡­ I would love him from afar," he admitted looking away because if it were to come to that¡­ he really felt that what he said was true. He loves Wang Li so much that sometimes it hurts knowing he was away from the man. He heard footsteps neared him and he looked up to see the king kneeled before him. Lips touched his and he closed his eyes as fingers cradled his face.


    "I love you too, Ah Yue," the raven-haired beauty confessed, and the blonde felt himself tearing up.


    "Ah Li," Ying Yue found himself laughing in happiness as he wrapped his arms around his lover, his best friend, his special person.]


    Blades slid and clanged as fingers danced lightly against one another''s body, as if not touching was too difficult to do. Golden eyes and silver ones continued to watch the other, taking in everything.


    ["I am not dating anyone, Ah Yue. No one else holds my heart but you," Wang Li watched him with a smile, "was it not obvious?"


    "But... I saw¡­" he could feel his ears burning across his cheeks, "I saw you with that man and¡­"


    "We are not lover."


    "You and the man? The one with red eyes?" Ying Yue asked for clarification and saw the king nodded slightly amused, "Are there¡­ anyone else besides-"


    He stopped his words feeling the coolness of his lover''s forehead against his. Closing his eyes, he leaned closer with a smile.


    "I only love you this way," Wang Li said deeply and it touched his very soul, brightening it like the shimmering stars.


    "In what way?" He bit his lips, but soon sighed when he felt his lover kissed him, slotting their lips perfectly in place. Ying Yue could kiss Wang Li all day and drown in the man''s taste, swim in his warmth, and live in his caress.


    "Don''t move," his lover panted against his ear, pressing a kiss there.


    Ying Yue was in the same condition, wanting more kissing and touching. He rolled his hips forward and Wang Li squeezed his hips, teeth holding his shoulder.


    "Ying Yue," the man in red warned and he pressed his chest closer.


    "Ah Li," he whined softly and he heard a moan from the king.


    "If we continue, I won''t be able to hold back."


    The blonde paused for a moment and wondered what Wang Li meant, until he really thought about his position.


    "Ah Li," Ying Yue bit his lips and looked into silver eyes from under his lashes.


    "You are going to be the death of me," Wang Li groaned tapping his forehead against his.]


    Plum blossoms surrounded them as it danced in the wind, fuzzed by the snow. They watched as the petal fell before them. Silver eyes trailed his lover''s form and smiled softly.


    ["Ying Yue," the Ghost King smiled sweetly at him and he felt his heart constrict, "You hold my heart, my soul, my mind. You are everything to me and I will forever love you."


    He watched the man in red grab an item inside the bell and rubbed the snow leopard''s head. Silver eyes looked at him once again and he was captivated, always had been. He felt the warmth from his lover''s palm against his cheek and his throat felt tight.


    "I am yours, Ah Yue¡­"


    Ying Yue saw the item held in between Wang Li''s fingers. Two thin bands twisted against one another, one black and gold like yin and yang. They shined as much as the raining flowers around him. His eyes watered and his mouth opened.


    "Ah Li¡­"


    "Will you be mine, my love?"


    Tears slipped down his golden eyes and he felt the rush of warmth spread throughout his entire body.


    "I love you."


    Wang Li pulled back and captured his lips like the embrace of comfort, of safety, of love.]


    Tears continued to fall from golden eyes as the snow continued to cover them, burying their feet. Petals danced with them in a synchrony of melancholy.

 Chapter 142 - I Am Not Ready

    ["Ah Yue, one day I will not be by your side. What will you do then?"


    He paused from playing with his lover''s fingers, pressing their rings together. Arms around his from behind as he leaned into the warmth. Sitting as they watched the plum blossoms bloom, emitting their natural scent.


    "If you are not by my side, I would rather die than live without you."


    He felt a kiss to the back of his head.


    "I need you to live on."


    "Ah Li, why do you ask me this? Do you not wish to be beside me any longer?"


    Wang Li pressed closer to him and wrapped his arms tighter.


    "There is no lifetime that I do not wish to be beside you, my love." He turned and kissed his king who deepened it. Large palm cradled his face and he blinked softly at his husband.


    "My heart is forever yours, Ah Yue," Wang Li whispered, "No matter what happens or where I go, you are my only path."


    "Why does it sound like you would leave me¡­?"


    Ying Yue whispered back and Wang Li let out a soft smile.


    "Wherever you go, I will follow my wife. Did I not tell you how much I am obsessed with you?" The raven haired man pecked his lips over and over as he spoke and the blonde let out a small giggle.


    "Please remind me."


    "As you wish, my love."]


    "Enough, my husband. I¡­ Ah Li," he whispered softly and he stared at the wounds on his husband, "Why¡­ all these times. You''ve been planning this¡­"


    Even covered in snow and blood, his king looked magnificent.


    "Why? Why didn''t you tell me? Why weren''t you honest about this?! I would have-"


    "-tried to find a way? I know¡­ but my beautiful wife," Wang Li sighed with a smile, "I do not deserve you."


    "Do you not?"


    He questioned desperately as each petal of his heart fell like the flowers around them.


    "I am not special, Ah Li."


    "You are."


    "Not without you! You¡­ you are everything to me, Wang Li. Please¡­"


    He could hear the crunching of snow leading to him and his lover moved closer. Cold hand cradled his face and he leaned into it with his golden eyes closed.


    "We must do what the Heaven wishes of us," thumb caressed under his eye, "We must complete the prophecy."


    ["You don''t wish to be the chosen?"


    "I wish to live my life freely, Ah Yue, don''t you?"


    He saw silver eyes investigated his golden ones, searching for the truth. The blonde frowned as he thought about an answer. Letting out a sigh, he looked straight at his best friend and spoke from his heart.


    "I do. I want to do as I wish and love who I want, but¡­ but to be chosen from the Heavens is an honor, Ah Li. We must do what is asked of us."


    Pulling his hand out of the soft caress of the blonde''s fingers, Wang Li looked at the moon and sighed.


    "You should not return here anymore and we should no longer meet, Ying Yue."


    "What?!" The blonde shouted and he turned his silver eyes to see watery golden eyes, large with anger.


    "No."


    "No?"


    "No, I will not stop seeing you just because¡­ just because you are with that man and you two are¡­ together¡­ we could still be friends and we could still meet. I know maybe we can''t meet a lot because you will be with him more, but¡­ but¡­ please don''t leave me."


    "Ying Yue-" Wang Li tried softly, but he wouldn''t¡­ he couldn''t!


    "I love you Wang Li! I will only leave you alone if you don''t love me back, but I know you love me too," he finished shouting and had crawled onto the king''s lap during his daze. Breath coming in and out in stutters, he blinked quickly to not miss the man before him, afraid that he would just disappear from him.


    "If you wish to cry, Ah Yue, then do so," the raven-haired male held his wrists as his hands shook against the man''s cheeks.


    "No," he shook his blonde locks steadying himself, "I won''t."


    His nose was twitching and his eyes watered, but he refused to let tears drop down his eyes. He told himself to remember the long dark lashes bordering the moonlit eyes, silvered with a slight red hue that he could see from how close he was to his lover.


    "Breathe, Ah Yue."


    The calmness of the king''s honeyed voice softened his heart and Ying Yue''s shoulders dropped.


    "I thank the Heavens for bringing you to me," Wang Li breathed out a smile against his wrist, and he fell harder for him.]


    Ying Yue shook his head tightening his hold on his husband and he stared teary eyed. Dark lashes lined with puffs of white as the moon watched the two of them on the brink of goodbye.


    ["I see," the elder closed his eyes for a moment and sighed, "You cannot see him any longer."


    The blonde pouted and shook his head stubbornly.


    "Did he not tell you?" His master looked at him with saddened eyes, "You were chosen to kill him."


    Ying Yue felt his entire world turn bleak as the blood dropped from his face. His heart was hurting. His master never lied to them and this¡­ he¡­ he couldn''t do it. Wang Li¡­ he must have known what he was destined to do then.


    ''You are the death of me,'' Wang Li whispered to him under the stars and he felt bile rising from his throat.


    ''You should not return here.''


    ''Do you know why they call me king?''


    ''You think too highly of me.''


    ''I cannot leave, Ah Yue.''


    "Why? Why should I kill him? I don''t understand," he cried.


    "He is the Ghost King, Ying Yue," his master whispered and sat at the edge of the bed, "He is the ruler of the dead."


    Covering his face with his hands, Ying Yue cried loudly feeling his heart breaking.]


    Lips pressed to one another as snowflakes dusted tears slipped down his cheeks to merge with the snow below.


    ["Ah Yue is very kind to me, from the first time we met to now, I am honored to be in his heart."


    Wang Li finished and ran his thumb over his cheek and Ying Yue looked at him with so much love.


    "That is enough," the redhead stated with a glare, "what is your purpose, Ghost King?"


    "My purpose is to create chaos."


    "You mean deaths."


    Wang Li did not reply, but the narrowing of his silver eyes made fear trickled into his bones. Ying Yue grabbed the king''s hand and spoke up.


    "Do you have to do it? Create chaos?"


    "Someone told me being chosen is an honor. We must do what Heavens ask of us."


    Ying Yue felt the blood in his face dropped. Those words were his own and though he still felt that way¡­ a part of him wish he never spoken those words aloud.


    "Why? If you create chaos, then-" the brunette questioned but stopped immediately with his eyes widened.


    "What is it?" Ying Yue questioned leaning forward.


    "Ah Yue," his lover whispered and his golden eyes looked to silver ones, "¡­ for you. I must create chaos and death."


    He shook his head and held tighter to the hand in his. His heart was beating faster as he thought about what Wang Li had to do, what he had to sacrifice for him.


    "No, no, there is no need to do that. There is¡­ there are already problems in our world. You don''t need to do anything."


    "You don''t understand," he felt fingers touched his face as gently as feathers on his skin.


    "Please, Ah Li," he murmured fingers shaking against his lover''s hand.


    "My purpose, Ah Yue, is you."]


    "I¡­ I am not ready, Ah Li. Please¡­ Please. A little longer," he cried clutching to his lover, pressing himself closer hoping to merge within the cold body.

 Chapter 143 - Dont Leave Me

    All the words that Wang Li had said throughout the many years were like a string of information, red flags, that should have told him what was to come. That this would be the end result, but Ying Yue refused to listen, refused to pay attention, because Wang Li¡­ his husband was strong, powerful, and perfect.


    And yet¡­


    "I am happy to be with you once more, my love."


    Ying Yue cried harder as snow piled around them. Cold hand moved to place the hilt of his weapon back into his hand. He shook his head wishing this was a nightmare, one he would wake up to soon, but his husband''s hand wrapped over his.


    "I will join you, Ah Li! I will."


    "No, my love. You will live for us, for the good of this world."


    Ying Yue''s knees buckled, no longer able to hold himself up as he clutched to his husband. Memories of Wang Li just staring at his face with solemn eyes, telling him how much he loved him, leaving trailing glances his way. All those times his touches said more than his words, whether it was with a mask or not. So many moons Wang Li would look to the sky as if searching for something, only for Ying Yue to realize after so long¡­ it was him.


    Wang Li had always known the ending.


    "Was my death planned?"


    He whispered and arms held him closer, stroking his hair comfortingly.


    "I was supposed to be the one to die, not you," Wang Li lifted his chin and kissed him gently, "We were never supposed to love and yet, you are everything to me."


    "Can we just not do this? Can we just run away? We can go anywhere Ah Li," he tried only to have his lover kiss the new tears on his face.


    "We cannot run from fate, Ah Yue," he whispered and it pained the blonde deeply, "This world still needs you long after I am gone."


    "But I need you!" He cried loudly as hiccups broke his words apart like his heart.


    A kiss to his cursed mark and Ying Yue couldn''t help taking in his husband, before the man coughed. Head turned away, Ying Yue saw the blood trickling down his lover''s lips. Helping Wang Li to sit against the trunk of the plum blossom tree, he kneeled before him. Snow rubbed against him, but all the blonde felt was air. He smiled at the big cat who slowly disappeared into Wang Li.


    The sound of the demons screams echoed into the night as they returned home. The howling no longer shook the ground.


    The plum blossom fell.


    He watched as his king took a breath and lifted his head. He took out the red handkerchief and wiped the blood from his lover''s lips, earning him a smile.


    "Now that it is complete, you will succeed."


    Wang Li whispered and reached out to trail fingers across his cheeks, up the bridge of his nose, across the mark and lips. Palms smoothed down his neck and followed down the shoulders to trembling hands.


    "Ah Li¡­"


    "I have done many wrongs, Ah Yue. You know this. I cannot be forgiven for slaughtering them. I refuse."


    "It wasn''t-"


    Hands squeezed tighter on his and Ying Yue shut his eyes. The image of scarves wrapped around his husband''s family necks reminded him of what his husband committed. The way they would run their fingers over the wrap unconsciously. Even Snow would rub his paw over the red ribbon around his neck.


    "It was. My own family, Ah Yue. If you had stayed, the same result would happen. Even when you left, I still sought you and killed you in the end."


    "No. I would-"


    "Enough," his lover said softly and sighed with his eyes closed, "I will return to you, my love. Would you save it for me?"


    His hands were lifted and Wang Li kissed their rings, but Ying Yue could barely feel it. He moved closer, leaning against his lover and kissed him, reminding him to live. He wanted to speak more on it, argue just to keep his husband with him longer, stay beside him more, but his lover would not let him pull away. Fingers wrapped behind his neck and the thumbnail lightly scratched his skin.


    A pull forward brought him back to the present.


    His blade pierced into skin and Ying Yue gasped. He broke the kiss and tried to pull his blade back when the raven-haired man pulled to pierce more. His heart was racing and his mind was frantic. He could hear the gasp and felt blood splattered against his robe.


    "Wang Li! Stop!"


    His husband did and stared at him and tears finally slipped down silver eyes. Finger moved against his cheek.


    ''Will you give me one last kiss, before I go in peace?''


    Ying Yue cried because he understood what he had to do. He cried because it meant to sacrifice his lover. He cried because-


    Ying Yue granted his lover''s wish. He kissed hard and deep. He kissed dirty and lovingly. He kissed and kissed so Wang Li would remember even after he was gone.


    The sword pierced through the newly returned core.


    Ying Yue cried harder as he kept kissing and kissing, but all he tasted was blood. He fell against his lover and held tightly against him, not wanting him to leave. Fingers carded through his hair and ran soothingly up and down his back.


    "You are free, Ah Yue."


    "I don''t want to be! Please, stay. Don''t leave me."


    "I keep making you cry¡­"


    Ying Yue cried harder and held tighter. He started to notice the dust floating into the air and his golden eyes widened. Pulling back, he cupped his lover''s face as he noticed Wang Li was fading away.


    ''No¡­ no! No!''


    "Wang Li, Ah Li¡­ husband, don''t¡­ I can''t¡­ please¡­"


    His mind was screaming and his heart was breaking. Everything in Ying Yue was shaking and ringing, refusing to believe that his husband, the love of his life, was fading away.


    A palm cupped his cheek, but he barely felt it. His heart was hurting and this pain was worse than anything he could have felt. He blinked to get rid of the tears so he could look at his lover, hope to the heavens when he blinked, his lover was still there.


    Dust sparkled as his lover''s arms faded away up to strong neck. Ying Yue panicked as he tried to hold onto his husband. Each time he tried to hold tighter, golden dust fell leaving less and less of Wang Li.


    "No amount of time will make me forget who I belong to, Ying Yue."


    He watched as his lover faded into dust, shining under the moonlight.


    "No! No!"


    He tried to hold onto some of what was left of his husband, but that too slipped away toward the moon. He tried to catch it, grab what belonged to him, but he stumbled and fell onto the snow. He cried harder as he curled into himself on the ground. The palace was quiet and he shivered in the cold snow, but he did not want to leave.


    The cold was not the thing that numbed him.


    Footsteps neared him as the shadow returned home. Things had changed. Nothing will be the same without his husband.


    The golden dust flew into the air and danced around the moon before it moved away. The silver of the moon watched the lonely child crying for a lover no longer there and watched as the world quieted from the howls of demons. The palace was in disarray and the colors that once filled this world unsaturated into a dull gray.


    The moon lighted the brothers mourning for their loss.


    This night was stained in blood.


    ==


    When Ying Yue woke, he was no longer at the abandoned palace. He got up quickly in a panic, but a hand pushed him down. He angrily pushed it away as he got up stumbling, only to be pulled back onto the bed.


    "Stop."


    "No, I have to-"


    "He is dead. He is gone."


    He looked down and cried, as he covered his face. Arms wrapped around him and he leaned in crying harder. Wang Li was gone and now¡­ his world¡­


    "No, no, no. NO!"


    He cried out hysteric covering his ears as if the truth was burning his ears. He was pulled into strong arms and he fought against the hold but ended up crumbling into it. He cried until his heart was dried and his muscles loss feelings. He stayed leaned against his eldest brother and stared at nothing. Face showing no emotion like his empty soul.


    "Ah Yue, here. Drink this. Calm yourself."


    Ying Yue took the tea and drank it. Ginger tea. His heart clenched at the taste and he handed the cup back but noticed his rings. This only lead to his red puffy eyes to scrunch as he cried softly. Pulling his hand to his chest, he curled up into it with his head on his knees.


    "I am sorry, Ah Yue. I cannot imagine how you must feel."


    "But you do."


    "What?"


    "Ah Shen."

 Chapter 144 - No One Can Escape Fate

    There was a silence and he turned to look at the brunette and Ying Yue saw the look on his brother''s face.


    "When I returned to him¡­ you knew they were just ghosts, but you never said anything. You just¡­ None of you even told me!"


    "Ghosts?" The redhead made a noise of confusion, but the brunette did not react the same.


    "Yes. I knew," Han Mo turned to him with dipped brows, "Is it my fault that I wanted to be with him longer, even if he was a ghost? If I told you, the Ghost King would have stopped and I wouldn''t have seen him again. Do I not get to be selfish too?!"


    "¡­"


    The room was quiet and they heard a slight whimper from the child. Xu Ling held onto his son and shushed him quietly. Ying Yue sat up and stared at his brother with deep seated eyes. He was just so tired.


    "Ah Mo¡­ you helped him."


    "¡­"


    "Han Mo," Xu Ling narrowed his eyes with a frown, "Had you?"


    "I do not know what you are speaking of."


    Ying Yue laughed softly, then it raised up to a loud obnoxious laugh that caused everyone to stare at him, before he laughed while crying dry tears. Pressing his palms to his eyes, he stopped laughing suddenly and stared coldly at the teacup.


    "You went to him, before I returned. You knew he killed Ah Shen. You fought him, trying to avenge Ah Shen and maybe the others too, but you lost and bartered with him."


    Ying Yue stated and his brother stared at him apathetically. A quirk of his brow, he heard his brother hummed.


    "You knew he wanted me. He knew you wanted Ah Shen. At the end, you both got what you wanted¡­"


    Han Mo sighed and ran his fingers through his hair. He pulled out his perfumed gift with the crane pendant. Sitting down, he let out a laugh and tilted his head at the blonde.


    "Have you ever played chess with the Ghost King, Ah Yue?"


    "Yes."


    "Had you ever won?"


    Golden eyes looked tiredly at him and his youngest brother shook his head.


    "Neither have I," Han Mo whispered and glanced back at his gift, "Your husband knows how to use one''s heart for his purpose."


    "He wouldn''t-"


    "Ah Yue. You really are blind when it comes to him. Every single one of us is a pawn in his game," the brunette glanced away, "Saving Lady Nuying''s imprisonment leading to the birth of Xu Ling''s child. Giving me time with Ah Shen, even as a ghost. Being around you even when you were away from him. Keeping you near so you would never forget him," Han Mo let out a breath as he stared at the ceiling.


    "He truly is a king who knows how to command his pawns. Even now, after he showed his hand, you still protect him so loyally."


    "Stop. Do not speak about my husband in such ways!" Ying Yue glared at his brother, "You do not know him. He would not play everyone as if it was a game."


    The brunette shook his head sighing.


    "When we found out of your death, we did not have time to mourn. There were still demons around that needed to be sent back, so elder brother and I fought hard. You remember, don''t you Ah Ling?"


    "My memories are not as clear as yours, Ah Mo, but I remember fighting endlessly. There were many demons still. Was that when you confronted the Ghost King?"


    The redhead narrowed his eyes at Han Mo.


    "Yes. I was angry about Ah Yue''s death and my heart was broken even further when I arrived at the palace to save Ah Shen, only to see-"


    The brunette cut himself off as his hand tightened around the gift of his crush.


    "It was a massacre and the Ghost King was just standing in the middle of the courtyard staring at the sky. I took my chance and fought. I wasn''t as strong or quick as him, but I was so angry."


    Ying Yue saw the defeated look of his brother''s face and he turned away from the sadness he saw.


    "Yet, he didn''t kill me. I was just being played by him and he just stared at me. Then¡­ then he offered me a deal," golden eyes glanced at golden ones, "It was an intricate plan he had weaved for many centuries, long before you were both eloped."


    Ying Yue nodded.


    The sunlight lighted the room and brought shadows in the corners. All he could hear was his pounding heartbeat at such accusation. Yet, the words of his lover''s voice echoed in his mind and he wavered in his resolved. His brother notices this and sighed out a smile with a shake of his head.


    "He is smart, handsome, strong. Was that not what you said, Ah Yue?"


    The platinum blonde gritted his teeth.


    "Lady Nuying was placed to take care of the knight, Ah Shen was given to distract the bishop, Ye Wu was your husband''s tower, and you were the queen, Ah Yue. I am sure he had many who were his pawns, his pieces."


    Han Mo shook his head and ran his fingers through his hair.


    "I apologize, brothers. I should have not been selfish. If I spoke up sooner, maybe all of this would not come to fruition."


    The brunette laughed and covered his eyes as tears slipped down.


    Xu Ling shut his eyes as he thought of what he lost as well. Looking down at the child sleeping with furrowed brows, clutching at his tunic, he thought of Lady Nuying. Exhaling through his nose, he pulled his child closer to him, protecting him.


    "No, Ah Mo," the youngest shook his head, "No one can escape fate. The prophecy was to be completed. Jade Emperor made sure of it, even if you told me¡­ I could not say for certain I would leave him."


    Han Mo laughed desperately with sorrow.


    "How depressing¡­ none of us had gotten a happy ending. I suppose we were never meant to love with what we are."


    Ying Yue did not comment because he did not know what to say. What his brother stated was true and yet¡­ they did love, were loved for a period of time.


    ''Was that not enough?'' Ying Yue questioned himself, but his answer came with no hesitation.


    ''No, never enough.''

 Chapter 145 - Phantom Touches

    He softly fisted his hand against his chest, feeling the aching hole once more. Just like before he returned to Wang Li, his heart was no longer strong, was hollow, empty. Not wanting to delve deeper into his hole of darkness, he cleared his throat.


    "Are the people¡­ are they safe?"


    "Many were able to escape. Recovering would be difficult, but doable."


    Xu Ling stated as he rubbed his child back to sleep.


    "Sect Leader Long did not make it. Sect Leader Zhi was badly poisoned, but Sir Chou had a medicine that saved him. I had not seen what type of herb was used, so I asked for a sample."


    "Were you able to replicate it?"


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "If you have the Ghost King''s energy, then yes."


    "I¡­ see."


    "Mo Chou, as well then."


    Ying Yue saw Han Mo frowned before looking at him with a look that said, ''See, I told you.''


    "He said Sect Leader Yang had turned into a demon and you released him."


    The blonde nodded.


    "Ye Wu¡­ what happened to him?"


    Both brothers stared at one another before turning to the blonde.


    "He escaped."


    "What do you mean?"


    Han Mo sighed and rubbed his forehead.


    "Without the Ghost King¡­ the Netherworld has no king. Someone must replace your husband, Ah Yue."


    Ying Yue stared at his rings.


    "With the Ghost King''s death, Ye Wu returned to his realm," the redhead stated, "His parting words was ''Be sure to tell your master, I did as I was asked.''"


    The blonde took that in and glanced at his brothers to see their faraway look. Nodding to himself, he absentmindedly rolled the rings, rubbing it as if it made his worry eased.


    "Sect Leader Jing is doing her best to help with the rebuilding of all sectors. Now that the Ghost King is no longer¡­ preparations for weather changes, weaponry, and charms are needed," Han Mo added offhandedly.


    "Just because your husband is dead, does not mean all the demons left with him. The ones that lurks will still lie in wait, little brother."


    Ying Yue sighed and stared at his rings.


    ''The world will need you far after I am gone.''


    ''Live for us, for the world.''


    ''Now that it is complete, you will succeed.''


    ''No amount of time will make me forget who I belong to, Ying Yue.''


    Looking at his brothers, he offered a smile.


    "We have all been through a lot. Thank you, brothers for being by my side. I will go help with the recovery. Rest if you need it."


    "You going to leave us behind?" Han Mo forced a grin and stood up with a stretch, pocketing his gift safely.


    "I will join as well. Then I shall speak with the Heavens."


    "But your child¡­"


    Xu Ling grabbed the sheet and wrapped it around himself, cradling the child to press against his chest. Both his brothers blinked at him and he stared back. Ying Yue found himself laughing and followed the redhead out of the cabin. He glanced at the rising moon in the distance as the sun began to settle.


    ''Then come back to me, Wang Li. I will be waiting. May the Heavens bring you back to me.''


    In the distant, there was a spark of gold shimmering near the moon.


    Watching. Waiting.


    ==


    Many moons had passed since the world recovered from the battle between demons and... the Ghost King. He had not been here since he was a child with his husband. Everything still looked the same, as if they only stepped away from their home minutes ago. Taking a deep sigh, he rolled his thumb around his rings- his husband''s and his own.


    Ying Yue stared at the shack that he had spent with Wang Li. He blinked away the constricting feeling in his chest and pushed the door opened. He walked in as the sun shined into the room, lighting the dusty floor and dark woods. He just stood in the middle of the room and closed his eyes, feeling the ghost of his lover beside him.


    Phantom touches against his skin as intangible hands cupped his face. He felt like he could still feel his lover''s lips, taste his mouth, and smell his scent. The touches left and all he felt was coolness, even with the warmth of the sunlight on him. He opened his golden eyes and just stared blankly at the wall.


    He looked at the paintings on the walls once again, each one he took in slowly. He found himself smiling as he pulled down each painting to collect into a small pile. He let out a sigh and glanced over to where his husband kept the pastries. He could still see his ghost standing there, smiling at him with a sweet in his mouth. He let out a soft laugh as tears welled up in his eyes. His heart stuttered and he walked over to the crate.


    Opening the lid, he sighed out a smile.


    "Ah Li, you and your sweet tooth," he said softly and reached in to lift some of the candy bags. Some of the pastries were moldy, so Ying Yue pulled them out to toss later. He saw the lollipop that he received from the man who made him clothing. He picked it up, twirling it in circles as his mind went back to when he was a child, gifted a beautiful mask from his husband, and was cared for so lovingly.


    Placing it into his pocket, he moved his hands around and noticed a box wrapped in the familiar red. He sucked in his bottom lip to quiet the grin. Ying Yue lifted the box out of the crate and placed it on the floor before him. His fingers roamed over the red fabric and he smiled with the memory it brought.


    The box was wrapped in his wedding veil.


    Untying it, he saw a wooden box lying underneath the fabric. He ran his fingers over the smooth wood before lifting the lid. Silver-white blinded him for a moment as he felt the light flapping near him, around him, on him. The shimmering dust made for a scene that made his heart ache and beat helplessly against his chest. He could hear his husband''s voices surrounding him like little kisses against his skin.


    He closed his eyes and cried softly, rubbing his rings.


    Arms wrapped around him and he felt the pressure of warmth against his back.


    "I missed you, my love."


    He cried harder.

 Chapter 146 - Aftershow With Ying Yue, Han Mo, And Xu Ling

    Host- "Hello everyone to the 2nd Aftershow party! What an ending! I am still wiping my eyes!"


    The audience was crying, wailing, as they wiped their tears holding one another.


    Host- "It''s a good thing we have the beautiful Ying Yue and his brothers, Han Mo and Xu Ling here to answer some questions we all have."


    The audience clapped with sniffles, as the three guests entered. Han Mo waved and smiled, Xu Ling nodded, while Ying Yue offered a small smile. They settled down and Ying Yue sat between his brothers.


    Host- "After reading that last chapter... how are you three doing?"


    Han Mo- "Ah, we could be doing much better."


    Host- "Right..."


    There was a silence that encompassed them as a heavy sorrow fell upon them. Ying Yue closed his eyes and sat up straighter. There was no need for him to act this way. Wang Li wouldn''t. So taking a deep breath, he exhaled slowly through his nose and smiled.


    Ying Yue- "We... We have learned a lot so far. My husband, Wang Li..."


    Han Mo- "Ah Yue..."


    Ying Yue shook his head and offered a smile.


    Ying Yue- "After all this... He loves me very much. I know... I know there are things I wished he didn''t do, but I know his heart. He chose what he thought was right."


    Host- "So... Wang Li, your husband, created this elaborate game, used you along with your brothers and others, just to get you to kill him was the right choice? Many people had died. Even when you were gone, right?"


    Ying Yue pursed his lips and looked away.


    Ying Yue- "Yes. Innocent people died in the process. Although I wished no life was taken..."


    Host- "He knew you wouldn''t kill him, so he forced you too. Even then, you still were fighting it in the end."


    His golden eyes shut and he nodded. He felt a squeeze to his shoulders and he looked to his eldest brother.


    Xu Ling- "I do not like the Ghost King but I know he loves my brother deeply. What was placed upon them both is a choice the Heavens made. His death had caused my brother much grief, Host. Be kind."


    Host- "Ah... yes, but Xu Ling. Your lover turned into dust right before your eyes because of him."


    Xu Ling- "Do not remind me."


    Golden eyes narrowed as red brows dipped low. Ying Yue touched his brother''s arm and looked over at the host, offering an apologetic smile.


    Host- "And Han Mo, didn''t you plan this with the Ghost King?"


    Han Mo- "Mm, not everything. I just put some things into place. I never really got the full extent of the plan. I don''t think anyone did really. Wang Li kept to himself, held it close to his heart. Sometimes... I think it was to protect us in a way."


    Host- "Protect you?"


    Han Mo- "Mm. I think if we end up knowing the entire plan, it would make us more as an accomplice or something. If I knew every detail of the plan, I think I would had given up and let him kill me."


    Host- "You knew enough though, but still went through with it. Why?"


    Han Mo sighed and leaned toward the host.


    Han Mo- "Fu Shen is someone I care deeply for and the Ghost King offered his presence once more. The only thing that was asked of me was to not tell my brothers, to be sure to find Nuying and her child, and to bring the shrinking candies with me to visit the sectors."


    Ying Yue furrowed his brows and touched the brunette''s arm. He searched his brother''s face and Han Mo offered a sighed smile. A hand patted his, as if to say it all worked out in the end.


    Ying Yue- "You didn''t know he would... give me the candy to eat?"


    Han Mo- "He did? When did you go small?"


    Ying Yue- "I found Ah Li in the North Sector as the painter. Then we... So, uh, when you were searching for your candies."


    Ying Yue flushed and Han Mo ah.


    Han Mo- "Did he touched you when you were... small?"


    Ying Yue- "What?! No! He refused."


    Han Mo- "Oh, thank heavens."


    The brunette breathed out and the redhead shook his head with his arms crossed.


    Xu Ling- "The Ghost King is dead. There is no need to question anymore."


    Host- "But is he? We all know what he kept saying  to Ying Yue. He said he''d be back, so... please tell us, will he return?"


    "Papa! Papa!"


    The sound of a child ran through the audience who stared at the fluffy bunny tail on bare bottoms. Curly pink hair bounced as the little child tried to crawl up the steps. The redhead stood up and picked up his child.


    Xu Ling- "Where is your clothes?"


    Child- "Gone!"


    The single black eye crinkled and a toothy grin showed. Xu Ling sighed, but a smile was in place as he took off his outer robe to wrap around his child.


    Host- "Oh my gosh! He is so adorable! Have you named him?"


    Xu Ling- "Yes."


    Host- "... the name is...?"


    Xu Ling- "Find out in the next volume."


    Host- "Ah! I guess we will have something to look forward to in the next chapter! What else should we expect?"


    Han Mo- "Hm... There is quite a lot actually. This child would be grown up and quite handsome. Also, let''s just say... there will be returns of characters."


    Host- "Like Wang Li?"


    The audience perked up and the guests smiled.


    Ying Yue- "Our love is great. It would be hard to tear us apart."


    Host- "Ah~ I cannot wait! Can you?!"


    The audience screamed with joyous tears.


    Host- "We are running out of time! Okay, let''s go to the audience. We have a question from Blovechu3. Go on dear. Ask you question."


    Blovechu3- "I''m curious about where you think you should be? You died, that''s something you seem to have accepted but what did you expect to happen after death? Where are you "supposed" to go according to you?"


    Ying Yue- "Thank you, Blovechu3, for your question. I¡­ When I died, I assumed I would just go to the afterlife and wait to be reborn. It took me awhile to realize this wasn''t a dream, this wasn''t Hell, that this was real, that Wang Li¡­ he was real."


    Ying Yue closed his eyes and took a deep breath. Wringing his hands, he felt a hand cupped his shoulder. Smiling over to the Han Mo, Ying Yue smiled to Blovechu3.


    Ying Yue- "I hope that answered your question."


    Host- "Ah, death is simple but the aftermath is all questionable. Let''s see who else has a question. Oh, Bonnie_Hopper_RN has a question¡­ more like a comment for you, Ying Yue. Bonnie?"


    Bonnie_Hopper_RN- "I''m sorry Ying Yue, honey. I didn''t mean anything by it. I''m a southern girl and we often address others with baby, honey, sweetheart, and so on. I''d much rather watch your love grow than tear it apart. Forgive this southern bell?"


    Ying Yue laughed and nodded with a smile


    Ying Yue- "Of course, Bonnie. I forgive you. It caught me off guard and¡­ a lot of people love Wang Li so¡­ please forgive me for assuming."


    The platinum blonde bowed and the audience were animated and the host hummed nodding.


    Host- "Thank you Bonnie! Looks like those are all the questions! Thank you to our guests for taking the time after such a tragedy. The last Aftershow will be the end of Volume 4 where we will have all the lovely characters here on the show! How exciting! Any questions you have for them, be sure to write in the comments anywhere. Have a wonderful day everyone!"

 Chapter 147 - Centuries Had Passed

    Hundreds of centuries had pass and he was still waiting for his husband to return to him. He had watched the sect leaders grow old, watched their children grow old, and watched them die. He closed his golden eyes and exhaled deeply. Still looking in his prime and yet his mind was so old, so very tired. His brothers and he sent many demons back, but some still remained on the surface.


    However, the world had been peaceful for many centuries.


    The Jade Emperor, in all his glory, agreed that others should receive his gift of cultivation. Relying on just the brothers were not conducive when demons erupted onto the human realm. So many bloods were spilled, so many losses. He still remembered in his past the look in his husband''s eyes. Shaking his blonde locks, he pressed his fingers against his heart. He rubbed it absentmindedly as he looked out into the scenery before him.


    Clear air, a light chill, and the morning sun rising over the hills made him calm, at peace. He heard footsteps nearing him and his lips tugged into a smile. They were shushing as they neared him, as if he hadn''t heard their small feet. A clearing of throat before a young female voice spoke up.


    "Grandmaster Yue, Master Zhang is asking for you. He said," the female lowered her voice, "''Tell my uncle to stop reminiscing about the past and hurry up so we can get started.''"


    Ying Yue let out a laugh and shook his head, as he turned to the three young ones before him. Their faces, the way they spoke and looked reminded him of them.


    "Master Zhang should tell me himself instead of sending you three to me. It is unkind to have you retell his blunt words."


    "We apologize, Grandmaster Yue," the brunette female bowed.


    "It is not your fault, child. I know today is an exciting day, is it not?"


    "Yes!" The female from before shouted excitedly, "It is finally here!"


    Ying Yue felt his heart softened at how young they were, how innocent and happy. The boy sighed with his flat look and glanced at him for a moment. White silver hair like the boy he remembered from so many centuries ago. Sending a smile, the boy nodded.


    "Then let us go."


    The children followed him as he headed into the school his brother and he created.


    A school for future cultivators.


    ==


    He stood with the masters overlooking the young pupils sitting on their heels and looking at the adults with big wide eyes. Ying Yue smiled back to have some students giggling and blushing. He glanced over to his brothers who nodded to him, smiling from how far they''ve come to now. Then his golden eyes fell upon the child, half of heaven and half of demon. Black eyes looked over at him and the grin along his face was of excitement and joy.


    Taking a deep breath, Ying Yue spoke out.


    "Hello everyone and welcome to our school. Be sure to follow the rules and do as your masters ask. In order to hon your qi, always do your best for good. Put all your efforts in each activity but be kind to one another. It is up to all of us to be successful and to help those around us. Do you all agree?"


    He saw heads nodding and not far away were the parents of these children, also nodding their heads.


    "My name is Master Xu," the redhead spoke up sternly, "Repeat the oath after me. I will work hard to fulfill all my duties."


    "I will work hard to fulfill all my duties," the children repeated.


    "I will not behave indecently, nor blame others for my mistakes. I will take responsibilities for my actions and accept punishment. I was chosen to be good and assist those when needed. I will not stray from my duties. I will always do my best. I will behave. I will be kind to all, no matter the circumstances."


    Each sentence, the children repeated with vigor and some of the parents joined in, shouting out happily. Zhang Xu Ling smiled and nodded, before Han Mo spoke up.


    "This is extremely exciting, right?"


    The children were hopping and nodding in agreement.


    "Alright! Then let''s get started! I''ll call out who I have, then Master Xu, then the rest will join Master Zhang. Understood?"


    Seeing the nods, Ying Yue couldn''t help laughing into his sleeves as the names were called out. Parents walked over to him, thanking him for this opportunity an he thanked them in return for their trust. His golden eyes saw a blue butterfly flapping its wings as it flew by. His eyes softened as he lowered his head remembering the butterflies at his disposal. Silver white butterflies holding memories of his past.


    "Grandmaster Yue! Grandmaster Yue!"


    He looked over to the talkative young girl, whose two friends followed. The same three from earlier and he couldn''t help the smile on his face.


    "Yes."


    "Why don''t you have student?"


    "I¡­"


    He let out an apologetic smile. If he was honest with himself, he would say he was too busy staying in the small shack listening to his husband''s voice. He would say he was far too lonely to handle helping young children evolve their spiritual energy. If he was honest, he would say he had gotten used to drinking plum wine to forget his mourning.


    "I am busy checking in with the sectors. I will not have time to help anyone."


    The children hummed and he wondered if they knew of his troubles like their past life.


    "Are you children bothering our Grandmaster?"


    A female with white hair and purple eyes walked over with a soft smile, as she stared at her children. Ying Yue found his smile softened at seeing the four of them interacting.


    ''Family. Ah Li, if you were here¡­ they are together, just like before.''


    "We weren''t annoying him, big sister. I promise!"


    "Alright, no need to be upset," she patted the talkative blue haired child as her twin spoke up.


    "We are under Master Xu!"


    "Oh! What about you, Ah Shen?"


    The white-haired boy glanced over at the brunette master and looked back at his sister.


    "Master Mo."


    "I see¡­"


    "Ah Yun, he is nice and funny. I am sure Ah Shen will learn to loosen up with Master Mo."


    "Ah Chu, I do not need to loosen up."


    "Sure, brother. You always think too much, right Ah Hien?"


    Yun shook her head hearing the banter and looked over at Ying Yue. The blonde smiled back and held up a hand, stating it was fine the children were speaking ill of his brother.


    "Thank you, Grandmaster Yue. Please care for them as if they were your own."


    "I will."


    As the parents and adults say goodbye to their children, he watched peacefully as the adults waved before they were gone. Now they were alone with 30 students and 4 adults. Nothing wrong was going to happen, right?


    "Come! Let us show you where you are sleeping!"


    Master Zhang, the pink haired man, called out and rushed into their school with his apprentices rushing after him. This led to all the children rushing in excitedly. Han Mo laughed loudly as he cupped the redhead''s shoulder.


    "That son of yours is going to be an issue brother."


    "Whose fault is that?" Golden eyes narrowed at the brunette, only earning another laugh and pat against his shoulder.

 Chapter 148 - I Trust You

    Han Mo grinned and skipped inside leaving the oldest and youngest brother. Xu Ling looked at the blonde who was smiling with a far away look. He had been this way since the war that the Ghost King created. His brother was rubbing the rings like a safety net to ease his mind, and there was nothing he or Han Mo could say to relieve their youngest brother of his sadness.


    "Fu Shen is back. I should have him as my pupil."


    "Then you would need to fight Ah Mo for him, brother."


    "He is but a child! If Han Mo dare to even think about it, I will knock sense into him."


    Ying Yue laughed and nodded as they both entered.


    ==


    Ying Yue really should have thought of this better. Xu Ling and his son could cook, but for 30 children¡­


    They were not prepared for how much their stomach can take.


    "More please!"


    "Another serving?"


    "I''m still hungry."


    "Food is so good! I want more."


    The cafeteria was loud with their chatter and all Ying Yue could do was stare in wonder. He had never been a situation as this before. Even when he was living in the palace with Wang Li, in the bustling villages, and even fighting in the war was it ever this loud.


    ''I have gotten too used to the quiet!''


    He looked over at Han Mo who seemed to be enjoying the chaos and glanced over at the sweating father and son in the kitchen. Clearing his throat, Ying Yue spoke up.


    "Children, please quiet down."


    No one heard except his brunette brother who looked at him with a grin.


    "You have to shout it, Ah Yue."


    "You know I don''t like doing so. Can you?"


    "Nope. This was your idea," his brother grinned and he frowned.


    Letting out a deep sigh, he raised his voice.


    "Children!"


    All eyes widened and the sound of plates and bowls plonked onto the table. Every eye was on him, including his brothers and nephew.


    "What was the rule about kindness?"


    The room was deadly silent and Ying Yue waited with a frown. A hand shot up and the child stood. He felt the corner of his lips twitched.


    "I will be kind to all, no matter the circumstances."


    "Well done. Thank you."


    Ying Yue watched the brunette female smiled, bowed, and sat back down.


    "I do not know everyone''s home circumstances, but here, we are family. You have all eaten your fill and yet still asked for more. Master Xu and Master Zhang had not even gotten the chance to eat because of your demands. I am disappointed."


    He could hear some of the students crying, saw many with their heads down, and others frowning with a pout. Yes, he did not think thoroughly.


    Shen left his seat and walked over to them. He knelled down to bow with his forehead on the floor.


    "I apologize masters and Grandmaster. I will take responsibility for my action and accept any punishment you wish to give me."


    Han Mo sighed and looked warmly at the boy. Nothing had changed since the past to now and it just made his heart danced thinking of his crush. He bent down and placed a hand on the boy''s head.


    "Why are you apologizing? You were quiet the whole time and only ate a small bowl."


    Ying Yue saw Fu Chu sliding in her seat before she stood up sharply.


    "I take responsibility, masters. I had taken advantage of Master Xu and Master Zhang''s hard work. Ah Shen, you don''t have to apologize for me. I will accept punishment."


    The female went into the same pose as her brother.


    Han Mo pulled his hand back to fist under his cheek as he turned to his youngest brother.


    ''They certainly haven''t changed, have they Ah Yue.''


    Standing back up, they waited to see if anyone else were to join. Some did and others didn''t. The punishment was given and those who accepted punishment received cleaning duties. Those who tried to get out of it had to fetch water, clean clothing, and joined Master Xu to tell their parents. Now that the day had ended, Ying Yue was getting ready to head out when his nephew called out.


    "Uncle Yue, are you leaving again?"


    "Yes."


    "Why must you always leave? I don''t get to hang out with you anymore."


    "Another time, nephew."


    "You always say that," the pink haired young man mumbled before standing tall, "Today went well. I would like to suggest something, if that is alright?"


    Ying Yue nodded.


    "We should start them with running around the mountains to gain stamina, then meditate, and after practice with wooden swords."


    "Like your father did with you."


    The man flushed and rubbed the back of his neck with a grin. Ying Yue laughed and nodded.


    "I trust my brother and I trust you nephew. I know I am not around long, it''s just¡­"


    The pink haired male sighed. It was always the same and he understood. He missed his mother every day, but his father always shared stories when he asked. When he would ask his uncle about his loss, the blonde always looked as if his entire life ended.


    "I know. I know. You miss your husband, but don''t forget we are here too, uncle."


    Ying Yue felt guilty and he hugged the bubblegum haired master.


    "Tomorrow. I will stay the night tomorrow, Lan-er."


    The arms around him squeezed tighter before pulling away and waving him goodbye. Ying Yue stood on his sword and flew to the shack at the edge of the north sector. When he arrived, he felt relief washed over him as if he was now home. Entering the room, he smiled as he saw the book near the bamboo mat, held together by a thin red ribbon. He went to the crate and pulled out the small wooden box and brought it to the mat.


    He made sure the windows were closed before he sat down and relaxed.


    His fingers glide over the book of their paintings, before moving over to run over the wooden box. He laid down on his side and opened the box. The butterflies flew around him, leaving shimmering silver glitter along its wake. He closed his eyes and listened to the sound of his lover''s voice touching his very soul. A small smile lifted his lips as he drifted to sleep, lulled by the voice that was no longer there.

 Chapter 149 - I Miss Your Touch

    Ying Yue played the seven strings instrument lightly to the dance of his husband and their pet. Each swirl and hop coincided with each plucked string. His golden eyes curved into crescents as he watched joyfully at the entertaining pair. After a moment and the tune slowed down, so did the big cat and his king. He smiled as Snow ran up to him, licking his cheek in happiness. His husband sat beside him, reached for his face and kissed him.


    He sighed into the kiss and felt warm hands moved down his neck and paused at his heart. It was racing with anticipation as the kiss deepened and tongue swirled. He pushed closer to his husband who held him closer, until Ying Yue was straddling Wang Li. Moaning into hot mouth, Ying Yue moved forward and back, rubbing their bulge together.


    "Mm, my dearest wife," Wang Li whispered clutching his ass as they continued to move "Not so shy anymore."


    Ying Yue reached down to remove his lover''s robes and moved his hand down to dip into his king''s bottoms. Wang Li moaned and Ying Yue felt nails dig into his ass. He just watched as he brought his lover to pleasure. The way his king''s breath quickened, face reddening, and muscles flexing told Ying Yue his husband was going to come.


    "Just watching you in pleasure, my husband, I could come with you."


    He panted into his lover''s mouth and Wang Li laughed pulling his lover''s ass closer, bringing Ying Yue''s hardness up against the pumping hand. He bit his lips as he rubbed and pumped, observing his husband. They moved and breathed and licked and kissed.


    "Ah, Ah Yue," Wang Li thrusted up and pressed their lips together. Tongue dug and licked his upper pallet, making his body tremble. Twirling his hips and pumping faster, he swallowed his lover''s groan.


    Ying Yue pulled away so he can watch his husband climaxed.


    ''So beautiful,'' Ying Yue thought as Wang Li came with breathless pants and he soon followed. Foreheads pressed together, their lips were barely touching as they breathed into one another''s mouth.


    "Naughty, my love."


    A smack to his ass had him jump before his mouth was being sucked. He felt breathless and loved and so, so good.


    "I miss you."


    "Hm, I can tell."


    Wang Li smirked rubbing his thumbs over his cheeks. He laughed and kissed his husband, who gladly kissed back.


    "How much longer, Ah Li? It had been so long. I missed your touch."


    "I am touching you."


    Ying Yue shook his head and sighed.


    "You know what I mean."


    Wang Li kissed him gently and softly as his words began to fade. Each time, the same words were uttered and each time his heart stuttered.


    "No amount of time will make me forget who I belong to, Ah Yue."


    And every time he would wake up alone, put away the butterflies, and grab the plum wine from the crate and drank. It numbed him enough to just feel nothing, no pain, no loneliness, no reminder that Wang Li was not alive.


    ==


    Xu Ling was the first to wake up and left his room. He glanced up to see his little brother sitting on the rooftop alone. The morning sun peeking over the mountains brought with it a light mist that casted over the school, over his lonely brother. Ever since the Great Death, Han Mo had coined it, Ying Yue had slowly become distant, preferring to be alone, to daydream, to stare at the moon.


    He remembered all three of them on the roof, reminiscing of those they lost.


    Shaking his red hair, he joined the platinum blonde on the roof.


    "You brought a bag with you."


    "I promised Lan-er I would spend the night this time. I have neglected him."


    He could see the tiredness in Ying Yue''s face and the constant rolling his the rings on his brother''s fingers.


    "How do you do it, Ah Ling? How do you¡­"


    Cupping the thin shoulder, much thinner than before, golden eyes turned to his. The sounds of footsteps entered the grounds, signifying multiple people were now awake. He squeezed his brother shoulder before standing up.


    "We must believe the Heaven''s would follow through on their promises, Ying Yue. You offered a home for cultivating students, to better this world. You only asked for him to return to you."


    "We also asked for Lady Nuying as well. Do you think¡­ do you think they will show soon? Like Fu Shen and the ladies?" He looked to the redhead with hopeful eyes. So many centuries they had waited and though Fu Shen was young, he was here. His brother''s heart may be filled once more.


    ''Maybe Wang Li will be young as well¡­ or¡­ of age¡­''


    He found his face warming as he patted his cheeks from such shameless thoughts.


    "Brother, you must understand the differences of deaths between Lady Nuying and your husband," Xu Ling stated making sure his young brother understood, "Lady Nuying was sent to reincarnation. The Ghost King-"


    "Was sent to death."


    Ying Yue said quietly shutting his eyes. Letting out a sigh, he stood up and nodded at his brother. He understood the differences. He understood why Wang Li''s family was here before his husband. He understood that his lover''s deed was worse that Lady Nuying''s.


    He also understood Wang Li will return to him.


    He had to.


    He must.


    Turning away from the rising sun, he jumped off the roof with his bag and greeted the excited apprentices. He smiled, he laughed, he told them stories, but his mind was always elsewhere. A place where his heart wandered.


    "Heaven''s Chosen, is that true?! My ancestors are the best then!"


    "What? Mine is!"


    "They all worked together."


    "But there were more of my people and they fought the hardest."


    "What about my ancestors? If it weren''t for them-"


    A fan smacked the top of the arguing children''s heads. Ying Yue found himself grinning like his contagious brunette brother. The children rubbed their heads and bowed to the adults in apologies.


    "Listen, your ancestors were able to work together and helped in the fight against the Ghost King and his horde of demons and ghosts. You all must do the same. Do you understand?"


    "Yes, Master Mo."


    "Good. Now go run 4 laps around the mountain."


    "¡­"


    "Why are you all still here?"

 Chapter 150 - Even In This Life

    "We¡­ we don''t know where to start¡­ and¡­ what part of the mountain," Li Hien said slowly and Han Mo laughed into his fan.


    "Ah¡­ Fu Shen, you will come with me to lay down a path. Lan-er, I''ll let you know when we are finished."


    Purple eyes from the white haired boy widened and blinked over at his sisters. With their eyes urgently telling him to follow, Fu Shen slowly joined Master Mo to gather ropes. Once that was done and they were carrying bundles of ropes, Fu Shen followed the brunette man''s instructions. Tying an end to a tree, circling another, and around until he ran out of ropes.


    "Here, Shen-er."


    He felt his cheeks warmed and darted his eyes to the smiling man was warm golden eyes.


    "You shouldn''t call me that, Master Mo. Please call me Fu Shen."


    "Do you not like it when I call you Shen-er? You are my favorite, Ah Shen. I shall treat you as such."


    Shen just stared at the adult with an incredulous look, but the brunette had already returned to his side to continue a path. Ignoring the heat at the tip of his ear, he focused on his task. With the last ropes used up, they did not make it around the school, so Han Mo tied the roped together and made sure to have the students run here then return. He turned to the white haired boy, no older than 16 and stared at him.


    Nothing had changed about Fu Shen. With burnt scars on pale skin and pale purple eyes, Han Mo still saw a beautiful man. He reached out and felt the softness of the boy''s skin, only to have the youth step back. Han Mo can see the tension along the shoulders, the clenching of jaws, and the face staring at the ground in defiant, fear, confusion.


    "Here," Han Mo produced a white handkerchief from his sleeve, "You got dirt on your hands and some on your face."


    Fu Shen searched Master Mo''s face for a moment before thanking the adult. He wiped his face and hands, but not before noticing the small crane at the corner of cloth. The stitching was nicely done and the cloth was silken white. However, it was now dirtied by him.


    He startled at the fingers gliding across his cheeks and pulled his hair to the back of his neck. He blinked at the adult and clutched the handkerchief in his hands.


    "You should tie your hair, Ah Shen. No need to cover a pretty face like yours."


    Master Mo''s voice was soft and gentle, but¡­


    He pulled away and held the cloth out to the brunette with a blank stare.


    "Thank you for lending me your handkerchief. I think we should return, Master Mo. I would not want to miss what Master Zhang is teaching."


    Han Mo offered a smile and nodded. Taking back the cloth, he watched the boy turn and walked away from him. His smile dropped and he sighed with his eyes closed.


    ''Even in this life, I still can''t have you, Ah Shen.''


    He ran his thumb over the embroidered crane, before heading back to the school with a pasted smile.


    ==


    Ying Yue swung his sword and twisted, dancing to the melody in his head. His hair pulled up high, moved with his momentum. He jumped and spun, before finishing with his sword aimed forward at the students. Pulling it back, he sent his sword away and smiled to the crowd. Eyes were wide with awe written all over his audience''s face and Ying Yue grinned.


    "Uncle Yue! Do it again!"


    The pink haired master shouted clapping and the youths followed. Ying Yue laughed and shook his head at his nephew.


    "Why don''t you come show our students your move?"


    "But you look so cool! Right everyone?"


    The agreement from the young students were like a choir, singing in tuned.


    "Master Xu is much better with his blade than I."


    "Father!" Zhang Xu Lan stood up excited, "Please show!"


    The redhead stared at his son and held his sword before his audience.


    "Master Zhang, are you really a master or a student?"


    A flush cross over the pale cheeks as the man grinned, earning a smile from his father.


    "Come. Let us show the future cultivators what a battle may look like."


    Black eyes twinkled and Xu Ling was reminded of the boy''s mother. A beautiful demon who wished for reincarnation, forgiveness, and a new life.


    ''You would be proud of what he had become, Nuying.''


    Zhang Xu Ling could hear the cheers from the young ones and he saw the calmness on his son''s face. Letting out a breath, he rushed forward.


    Ying Yue watched and saw the spar between father and son. He was envious and proud that his brother was happy. Zhang Xu Lan had grown up strong, excited, and filled with joy. However, they knew the pink-haired boy had the energy of the demon within. Would it cause his nephew any issue? Would the demon blood overwhelmed the pinkette?


    He saw Fu Shen glanced at him before turning his face quickly. His golden eyes watched the white-haired boy sit quietly beside his sisters. He looked over to the side where the road up the mountain was and saw his brother''s face revealed. Golden eyes looked at one another and Han Mo waved at him, but Ying Yue knew something had happened. The brunette walked over to him and stood beside him to watch the spar.


    "Are you alright?" He questioned softly.


    "No," Han Mo replied with a soft sigh.


    Ying Yue glanced over at the purple eyed male to see a stoic face staring at the battle and he rubbed his rings.


    "Should we move Fu Shen to Ah Ling''s team?" He whispered and Han Mo was silent for a moment, before he saw brown hair swishing back and forth.


    "Do not worry, Ah Yue. Just seeing him alive is enough for me."


    "Liar."


    Ying Yue whispered and earned a smile that did not reach his brother''s eyes. The sound of clapping and shouts brought him back to the two men. They bowed to one another and Xu Lan began instructing each student to be a few feet apart. Each were given a wooden sword to practice with and followed the movement of the pinkette.


    However, Ying Yue wondered if Wang Li was here now with no memories of their past... would he be happy just being able to see his husband? He closed his golden eyes and felt his heart aching. He already knew the answer to his own question.

 Chapter 151 - I Am Your Dream

    After sword practice, running laps around the mountain, and cleaning the grounds, the students were tired. Li Chu felt her head falling into her meal from how tired she felt. Her twin was no better as the brunette pressed to her side like a sticker. Her eyes stared at her silent brother to see him eating mechanically.


    "Ah Shen."


    "¡­"


    "Ah Shen."


    "¡­"


    "Fu Shen!" The blue haired female raised her voice slightly and purple eyes blinked to her, "What is wrong with you? You are quieter today."


    "I am tired, Ah Chu."


    "Pssh, aren''t we all? I can only imagine what studies will be like," she moaned and heard the soft snore at her side, "Eh? Ah Hien, are you sleeping? Wake up."


    She pushed the brunette away from her, but arms wrapped tighter around her and she sighed. Patting her sister''s head, she glanced over at the masters before looking at his brother. His eyes were on Master Mo.


    ''Why were they on Master Mo?''


    "Fu Shen," Purple eyes turned to her as her voice quieted sternly, "What did he do."


    Her brother did not reply or say a word, only stared at her. She deadpanned and frowned deeply from the lack of response. Her brother always was like this since her sister adopted him: quiet, respectful, yet filled with sorrow.


    "Big sis," her twin mumbled, "No more congee."


    She patted her sister''s head and saw the grandmaster heading to them.


    "Grandmaster Yue," She smiled and nodded to him from her seat.


    "We worked you all very hard, please go rest."


    "Okay. Thank you, Grandmaster Yue. See you tomorrow," Li Chu smiled and she watched golden eyes glanced at her brother for a moment, hesitantly, before walking away. Fu Shen was staring at his bowl and looked embarrassed, but of what?


    ==


    Ying Yue sat on his bed at the school and listened to the stories his nephew told. For the last decade of the pink haired man''s life, the blonde chose solitude. The guilt gnawed at him as he listened to how Xu Ling had listened to his son after ten failed attempts at making honey cake. His golden eyes just stared at once large black eyes became shaped like his father''s. He observed the sparkle and the excitement in the boy and he wondered if his nephew remembered his mother. He wondered how he could be this happy if he did remember.


    "Enough. Go to bed, Xu Lan. Let your uncle sleep."


    "I am not a child anymore, father."


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "I¡­"


    His black eyes looked innocently at his father, but the redhead only stared back with a stoic face and a frown. Feeling awkward, Zhang Xu Lan picked at his cheek and dropped his head.


    "I''ll go to bed," he mumbled, "Goodnight, Uncle Yue. Sleep well. Father," the pink-haired man hugged his father, "Goodnight."


    His heart dropped when his father did not return the hug. Swallowing down his regret, he left and went to his room. Xu Ling watched his son and crossed his arms with a sigh.


    "He is right, big brother."


    "I know."


    "Would you like to stay? I brought wine."


    The redhead turned to the blonde sharply, before huffing out unapproved.


    "You are drinking again."


    "It helps me sleep."


    Xu Ling pursed his lips. He did not want an argument again like before, or his brother would go into isolation once more, deriving his son of his uncle. Gritting his teeth and bidding the blonde good night, he closed the door with a glare. When will his brother stop living as if he had nothing left? How can he protect the blonde from his brother''s own heart?


    Ying Yue''s smile dropped as the door closed and the footsteps receded. He stared at the door before taking a swing of the wine from the bottle. He swallowed it down wincing from the burn and did it again.


    "Ah Li," he spoke softly as his eyes tired and his head lolled, "I hate you."


    Tears reached his eyes and he wiped at them lazily. Crawling to his bed, he grabbed the wooden box in his bag and called forth a specific butterfly. Not bothering to remove his outer robe, he lied on the bed and placed the butterfly on his forehead. Blinking slowly as the view of the ceiling faded, the sound of his lover cleared.


    ["I hate you," he whispered, only to feel the pinch at his side from the grinning man in red.


    "Lying is not a good look on you, Ah Yue."


    "It''s true."


    Those silver eyes searched his face for a moment, and the grin fell. Wang Li looked away before bowing to him.


    "My apologies. I should return home."


    Ying Yue watched as the raven-haired male turned away from him. He watched as the man in red took a couple steps. He watched as his heart was being pulled further from his chest.


    "Then why haven''t you?"


    He spoke up and Wang Li paused, glancing at him with a blank stare. His lover turned away and began walking again, but he called out once more.


    "Why haven''t you returned to me?"


    Again, Wang Li paused.


    "I hate that I have to wait so long. I hate it. I hate you for making me wait. I hate you for not being here. I hate you, I hate you, I hate you!"


    Ying Yue cried and covered his face as the pain in his heart spewed out of his mouth.


    "I hate only seeing you when I sleep."


    Wang Li stared at him and if this was his husband, his lover would had held him, comforted him. If this was his husband, there would had been whispering words of love. If Wang Li was not just a dream, his heart wouldn''t be hurting so much.


    "What you ask of me, I cannot give you, Ah Yue. I am your dream. I do as you wish."


    Ying Yue inhaled deeply and walked over to hug his lover in his arms. He took in his husband''s scent and exhaled with a trembling heart.


    "Remind me how much you love me."


    Wang Li smiled in that softness that he remembered and leaned down to kiss him.]

 Chapter 152 - Painful And Lonely

    Ying Yue was listening to Han Mo reading a passage of stories he had written, to the chagrin of Xu Ling. Ying Yue enjoyed them. There were many that were based off their life and what they had witnessed.


    "A female begged for your assistance and you agreed. When you arrived to the place the female stated had dark energy, you saw something floating in the distance and when you turned, the female disappeared. She asked for you help to walk her through the forest, but she was not there.


    "So, students. Write down what you would have done in this situation."


    Li Chu blinked and glanced at her sister who was writing down what she would do. She then glanced over at her brother who was doing the same. A small smack against her head had her eyes widened as she stared at the brunette master.


    "Li Chu. Are you having trouble deciding what to do?"


    "Uh¡­"


    "Li Chu will have an answer. She is my student. She will not disappoint," Xu Ling stated and the blue haired female sweat with nerves. A book was slowly inching to her and she inwardly thanked her twin for saving her-


    "After all, cheating would be punished."


    Li Chu cleared her throat and stood up trying to figure out what to say.


    "I¡­ I would search for the female, to make sure she was safe."


    There was a silence and she glanced at the masters to see them staring at her.


    ''Oh crap, did I mess up?''


    The sound of the waterfall not far away from the school sounded louder than it should due to the silence. Everyone''s eyes were on hers and though she was fine with garnering attention, the silence was stretching far longer than she liked.


    "Masters, may I add to what Li Chu said?"


    Eyes glanced over at the white-haired boy who stood. A nod from Master Mo made Fu Shen hesitate, before speaking out.


    "Because the reason you arrive at the forest is to help the female through it, finding her is important. I would clear the forest of darkness, so it is safe for everyone. The possibility of finding the female in the forest is a high percentage."


    "And how would you clear the forest?" Han Mo questioned.


    "By using my blade."


    "And if your blade is missing because the female had swiped it off you?"


    "¡­"


    "In that time, the forest demon can smell heaven''s touch on you and attack. What would you do?"


    "I-"


    "You only have your hands and feet and wits to survive. How will you use it?"


    "M-"


    "And if you are wrapped up and staring the demon straight in the eyes, do you show fear or courage?"


    "Ah Mo."


    The brunette turned to his younger brother to see worry in golden eyes. Blinking, he let out a laugh and returned to the front of the class, ignoring the concerned eyes of his brothers and nephew. Ying Yue glanced at Fu Shen to see the boy staring at the floor with fisted hands and he exhaled deeply.


    "Master Mo asked great questions. One must be able to think on their feet, be courageous in the face of the enemy, and understand your client. Fu Shen and Li Chu, you may both sit. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. They are both correct. Finding the female is important and clearing the forest as well. I know these are hard to understand when you have not experienced it, but we will do everything we can to prepare you for cultivation life to protect your family and this world."


    "Master Zhang, would you share what you did?" Master Xu questioned and the pinkette stood with a smile.


    "My fath- Master Xu and I was in this situation. Master Xu decided to let me handle it and so I was at the forest with this female. The example Master Mo stated was true. I saw the dark energy in the forest and the female did vanished. My first thought was she was taken by a demon, but there were no tracks or whereabouts of where she would be. Like Fu Shen, I focused on clearing the forest, but the land was long and wide, so clearing it would take time. The scream of the female sounded in the forest and I ran, disregarding the fact that a demon was reaching for me. I lost my blade and did not restore my charms and talismans beforehand, so all I had was what Master Mo stated: hands, feet, and wits."


    "What did you do, Master Zhang?" A student questioned worriedly.


    "I used my flare."


    "Flare?"


    "Every cultivator will be given a few beads that can break into a flare in the sky, signifying for assistant from fellow cultivators. The Masters before us had their own master who created this idea, but Master Mo was able to curated it into these small beads," the pinkette held up a blue bead, "My fath- Master Xu came to assist me and we were able to send the demon back."


    "What about the lady?"


    "I could not save her."


    Ying Yue saw the crestfallen face on the students and even some had tears in their eyes.


    "There will be time when you can not protect the innocent, so harden your hearts with that knowledge," the redhead stated, "It is important to know not every person you help will be good, helpful, alive, but know you did your best to complete your task and uphold Heaven''s mission."


    There was a quiet understanding that befall upon the students.


    "That is enough for today, let us take the rest of the day off. If you were part of the cooking chore, you may assist Master Xu and Master Zhang if you would like, but you do not have to."


    Dismissing the class, he then turned his attention to Han Mo who had been acting differently. It was just the two of them in the classroom filled with tables and books. The brunette frowned at him and shook his brown locks.


    "I am fine, Ah Yue."


    "You are not."


    "I am."


    "Ah Mo."


    He heard the disbelieving laugh from his brother who covered his face and cupping his shoulder for leverage.


    "This must be how your husband felt when you returned with no memories," Han Mo looked at him with lonely eyes, "It is painful and lonely."


    Ying Yue felt empathy for his brother and hugged the brunette against him. He heard the light chuckle and felt the pat against his blonde head.


    "Thank you. I will be alright. Will take some getting used to, but¡­ I am still happy to see him."


    Han Mo pulled back and stretched his limbs with a sigh.


    "Let''s go make them smile."


    Ying Yue smiled, but his mind went back to what his brother had just told him.


    ''Painful and lonely¡­''

 Chapter 153 - Im Bringing Him Back

    Ying Yue waved goodbye to the students and his family as he returned to the small shack by the lake. Falling asleep, he dreamt of a field of roses and the scent calmed his heart. A presence appeared before him enveloped in a golden glow.


    "Jade Emperor," Ying Yue greeted with a bow.


    "Chosen One. You and your brothers are doing as I asked. Therefore, I will give you what you asked."


    His eyes widened and he quickly stood straight staring at his visitor.


    "You will bring them back? Truly? Thank you. Thank you."


    He bowed multiple times with his heart bursting with tears of joy.


    "Only one."


    The tears of joy became tears of blood.


    "One, you will bring one back?"


    "Yes."


    Ying Yue shut his eyes and clutched his heart, feeling the rings like an anchor. Only Lady Nuying or Wang Li can return. Only one.


    "You already know this would happen and you already know which I would choose."


    "Yes."


    Ying Yue turned away from the golden figure and dropped his shoulders in defeat. Then the presence left and he was alone once again. The figure of Wang Li appeared and cupped his face. Silver eyes stared at him lovingly and a soft smile on thin lips.


    "I am proud of you," his lover whispered and Ying Yue shook his head, "Selfless, my love. The world needs you, Ah Yue. Such a sacrifice you continue to give¡­ I will still be here for you, my wife. Always."


    Lips pressed against his, but Ying Yue''s heart was still bleeding tears.


    Wang Li will never return to him.


    When he woke, the sun had not risen, and the sky was still as dark as his lover''s hair. Ying Yue just laid in the dark and rolled the rings around his fingers. Tears slipped down his eyes, across the bridge of his nose, and connected with more tears down to the temple.


    He reached for the wooden box, only to freeze when he recognized an energy from his past. Quickly grabbing his sword before him, he heard a chuckle in the corner of the shadows. Red eyes revealed and a grin plastered across the demon''s face.


    "Ye Wu."


    "I had been here for awhile watching you toss and turn, Ah Yue. Nightmares?"


    "Why are you here?"


    The demon sat at the table and poured himself some wine. Ying Yue slowly got off the mat with his hands still wrapped around the hilt of his blade. He watched as the demon drank the wine quickly and refilled the cup once more.


    "I''m bringing him back."


    "Who?"


    Ying Yue''s heart beat faster as the demon drank the wine.


    "Who else?"


    "Ye Wu," he warned quietly, "Don''t. Don''t lie-"


    "Wang Li."


    He searched the demon''s face and saw the darkness beneath those red eyes. Ye Wu sighed and drank from the bottle, chugging the rest of the alcohol down his thin neck.


    "I can''t even kill you if I wanted to. I promised your master and I regret it," the demon mumbled wiping his lips with the back of his hand, "What? You gonna kill me? You can try."


    "You are not lying. You truly wish to bring him back? How? Why?"


    "You are not the only one who misses him, Heaven''s Chosen and I doubt the Heaven''s will bring him back. It would risk the balance once again."


    Ying Yue''s hands trembled holding his blade and he shouldn''t, but he sat down before the demon in hopes that his lover will return to him. His heart jumped at the thought that soon he could have Wang Li in his arms again, not just in his dream.


    "You¡­ you can bring him back?"


    "Yes."


    "How?"


    "His ring."


    "No."


    "Give me his ring."


    "No."


    The demon''s red eyes narrowed at him and Ying Yue clutched a hand over his ringed fingers, specifically his lover''s. He couldn''t just give it away. He promised he would keep it safe. He promised to return it to Wang Li. He promised. He promised-


    "Let me tell you something child," Ye Wu said with spite, "Wang Li gave up everything for you. His life, his soul, his core. He created an entire fucking world just for you, to make you happy, even when everything was against the both of you. You should know none of us, not even your master, truly approved of your relationship. We all know death was to come, but none of us could deny you both love one another. We cannot sway Wang Li''s decision before your death and after. Everything was for you, stupid child. Now give me the ring so I can bring him back!"


    "No!" Ying Yue shouted clutching his hand, "I promised him I would keep it safe. I promised to hold it for him until he returns to me."


    Ye Wu laughed loudly and Ying Yue gritted his teeth as his golden eyes glared at the demon.


    "Did you not listen to what I just said, dummy? Wang Li had done everything for you. Why do you think so? What do you think the reason was for?"


    The platinum blonde just stared at him for a moment and Ye Wu was not a patient demon, but he waited as long as he could. Wang Li did not fall in love with an idiot¡­ at least he hoped so.


    Ying Yue could hear his lover''s voice, like etched memories in his mind.


    ''I would do anything to make you smile.''


    ''You make me very happy, Ah Yue.''


    ''As you wish, my love.''


    ''I thank the Heavens for bringing you to me.''


    ''I love you, Ah Yue.''


    ''Take care of it for me, beloved.''


    ''No amount of time can keep me from you, my wife.''


    Ying Yue stared at his husband''s ring and cried softly as he pulled it off his middle finger.


    "He knew then, that you would try to bring him back?"


    "Mm," the demon nodded, "You know how stubborn the Ghost King is when it comes to you."


    "What do you want in return?"


    Ye Wu let out a soft smile, a smile he had never seen on the demon''s face.


    "Company and maybe a little¡­" Ye Wu wriggled his brows and Ying Yue frowned deeply.


    "Ye Wu! You are his mentor! Do not think such shameless-"


    The demon laughed loudly and tapped his forehead.


    "Come on, give me the ring."


    "If¡­ how long? How long will it take and¡­ why now?"


    "Do you think creating his body was going to be that simple?!"


    Ying Yue blinked at him wide eyed.


    "Those rings have his energy. If I call it forth to settle inside him, then Wang Li will be able to return. As you know, he is unable to reincarnate. I found his soul within the realms of the Netherworld extremely broken. Once the energy enters Wang Li''s body, his soul will join."


    "You hope it would. You do not know for sure."


    "No. I don''t."


    Ying Yue closed his eyes and pulled off his own ring as well. He held it tight before him for a moment, praying that it would bring his husband back to him. He opened his eyes and handed them to the demon.


    "Both of them? I only asked for his."


    "You said he had his energy in both rings. I¡­ Wang Li trusts you, Ye Wu. I only hope you are successful in bringing him back."


    Red eyes stared at him for a moment before taking the rings and fading into the shadows. Ying Yue felt his fingers too light, felt his heart too heavy, and his mind running with thoughts of possibilities.


    "Ah Li, please come back to me, my love. Come home."


    ==


    (2 years later)


    "Fu Shen, I am so happy you are our resident chef! Your meals are divine," Zhang Xu Lan grinned eating the porridge with a pleased hum.


    "I agree, thank you Fu Shen."


    Grandmaster Yue smiled and the Master Xu nodded in agreement. Fu Shen glanced over at his master to see an offered smile that did not reach warm brown eyes. Bowing, he thanked them and continued cooking, ignoring the confusion like guilt gnawing at his heart.


    "Ah Yue," Han Mo spoke up, "There''s been sighting of a low-level demon. I think we should bring along our students to experience it."


    "They''ve been itching to test their knowledge and I am excited to see how my students compare to yours father and uncle," the pinkette said excitedly.


    "A challenge," the redhead smirked, "Very well. I accept."


    "Yes! Then the first team to capture the demon wins!"


    "If you lose?"


    "Who said I would?"


    "This isn''t a competition," Ying Yue started but the brunette grinned.


    "Whoever wins can receive the best student from the losing teams," Han Mo said with a twinkle.


    "You''re on!"


    Ying Yue was happy they had comradery between family, but to make this a competition seemed to lose the importance of teamwork. Sighing with a smile, his golden eyes glanced over to the white-haired boy in the kitchen. There was a frown upon the lips and a slight dip of white brows. Ying Yue could not see Fu Shen''s eyes due to the shoulder length hair blocking the view.


    ''Ah Shen is Han Mo''s best student. Is my brother willing to part with him or is he confident he will succeed?''


    "Uncle Yue! You be the judge since you have no apprentice."


    Ying Yue laughed and agreed with a sigh.

 Chapter 154 - Nuying

    Ying Yue¡­ should have known this would not be a simple competition. He felt empathy for the poor demon who nothing more than a lizard the size of an adult hand. It was slithering and jumping away from reaching hands. He itched to just pick the demon up and send him away before he was stepped on or even squeezed to death.


    His nephew, Zhang Xu Lan''s team were setting up traps and when it seemed they would have caught the little demon lizard, Han Mo''s team scared it off. When it looked as though his brunette brother''s team would catch the prey, their big brother''s team interfered.


    This went on for hours and Ying Yue was the audience watching it all.


    They had ran after the lizard into the village, up the roofs, up the trees, and even to the outskirts of the village. A woman who was staring at the sea had became protection for the little lizard as it crawled up her leg, hidden behind the pink fabric. She had a straw hat with a covering to keep the sun away and Ying Yue wondered why she was standing at the bank of the sea alone.


    "Where did it go?" Some of the students questioned and Ying Yue did not answer.


    "Check the sands," Xu Ling instructed, "It may be hiding in there."


    Han Mo stared at the female as the wind moved, pulling her fabric with her and his golden eyes widened. Running over to the female, he quickly reached for the demon. It crawled up and around and Han Mo followed patting and grabbing.


    He heard the screech from the female and managed to capture the demon, only to have the female push him hard into the water.


    Ying Yue watched as his brother was dunked and the female fell. He watched as his big brother went to help the female up. He saw the hat fell. They witnessed who it was.


    "Nuying?" Xu Ling whispered and the female looked up at him. Those black eyes followed the redhead as he dropped to his knees.


    "How do you know my name?" She said back pulling her arm away, but her eyes continued to stare at the redhead.


    "I apologize," Xu Ling said holding his hand back out, "Let me help you up."


    She hesitantly took his hand and he squeezed for a second, before lifting her up to her feet.


    "Awe man, we lost," The losing teams groaned, while the winning team cheered happily.


    "Master Mo is the best!"


    The brunette master grinned holding up the wriggling lizard. He pushed a finger against the head and the demon returned to the Netherworld. Dripping wet, he pushed his hair back and turned to apologized to the female, only to have his jaw drop.


    "Nuying?!"


    The female turned to him, before moving to hide behind the redhead. His golden eyes looked to his older brother and Xu Ling stared back with a sad frown. Shaking his thought away, Han Mo bowed low and apologized to the pink haired female, who was still eyeing him cautiously.


    "Were you waiting for someone?" Xu Ling questioned and the female looked away.


    "I am not sure. I only remembered holding a child beside a lover, I believe¡­ and now I am here," she finished before stepping away, "Are you¡­ are you here to hurt me? I¡­ I will scream. Don''t think I won''t!"


    Han Mo had called for the students to return with him and Master Zhang. Ying Yue walked over to the female and couldn''t help smiling. This was Nuying, the redhead''s lover and his nephew''s mother. It sounded like she still retained some memories of her past, even if they were fuzzy. She remembered a child and a lover.


    "Miss, my name is Ying Yue and I am the Grandmaster of the school for cultivators. This is Xu Ling, my brother and a master. Those children who were just here are our students. I apologize for Han Mo''s behavior, but I assure you it was not will ill intent. There was a demon on you and he just released it back to its world. I hope you can forgive him and those involved."


    Black eyes stared at him before sliding over to his eldest, still staring at her with hidden happiness at being reunited.


    "I offer you a place to stay and meals to eat, miss. You may stay as long as you''d like. We will not ask anything of you, but to be kind and respectful," Ying Yue added and hoped she agreed. He hoped the longer she stayed, the more she would recognize his brother and nephew.


    Nuying had nowhere to go and no memories of recent times. The blonde seemed nice and the redhead looked familiar. Was it possible they would be able to help her?


    "You are certain you ask nothing of me? Will I be protected if something were to happen to me?" She questioned with a frown.


    "I promise. Xu Ling will protect you always."


    She turned her black eyes to the redhead and he stared right back, confident in his words.


    "As long as you will have me, I will protect you."


    She searched his face before feeling a slight warmth to her cheeks. Looking away, she went to pick up her hat, but the redhead had already done so. He shook the sand off, before placing it gently on her head.


    "Okay."


    Xu Ling smiled. Nuying flushed. Ying Yue felt he made the right decision.


    ==


    Han Mo sneezed and groaned into his covers. His body shivered slightly, but he did not regret capturing the lizard. His team won and now he could get Xu Ling and Zhang Xu Lan''s best students. He hummed trying to remember who were the ones he was interested in.


    A knock sounded and he called for whoever it was to enter, as he sat up in bed.


    Fu Shen entered with a warm bowl of soup.


    "I apologize for waking you."


    Han Mo stared at the young man who was not looking at him. Sighing through his nose, there had been a strange distance between them after he touched the white-haired boy''s face years ago. He made sure to not do so again, to put distance between them, and only speak or be near him when needed.


    "Thank you, Fu Shen," he offered a smile, "I''ll drink it in-"


    He sneezed and rubbed his temples. Han Mo had not remember ever being sick before.


    "Here."

 Chapter 155 - Come Back To Me

    Fu Shen was standing before him, holding a spoon before his lips and Han Mo found himself laughing. Taking the spoon in his mouth, he hummed with approval.


    "Are you going to stand and feed me?" He only received the spoon against his lips again, "Here, sit beside me if you are forcing me to eat."


    Han Mo patted beside him on the bed and there was a hesitancy, before Fu Shen sat down. Purple eyes did not look at his eyes but was focused on feeding him. They were quiet and he silently ate until there was nothing left in the bowl.


    "Fu Shen, what is wrong."


    "Nothing."


    "Are you upset we won? Did you want to join Master Xu''s team? I could understand since your sisters are there."


    "No. I am fine being on your team."


    "Then what is it. Something is bothering you for some time. If you wish to speak on it, I suggest we do it now."


    The candle was already out in the room and the only light was from the moon. Fu Shen''s hair looked as if was glowing, illuminated by the light. He smiled and couldn''t help reaching out. Fingers lightly dragged across the soft cheek to feel the young man''s stillness. He yanked lightly on the ponytail, letting out a soft laugh.


    "I see you took my advice, finally."


    He pulled his hand back and purple eyes finally looked at him, searching his face for something he didn''t know.


    "Am I still your favorite?" Fu Shen whispered quietly and Han Mo''s eyes widened, before he laughed.


    "When have you not been?"


    "You don''t¡­ you call me Fu Shen."


    "Do¡­ do you want me to call you something else?"


    Fu Shen was quiet and Han Mo felt his heartbeat quickened. He knew Fu Shen was shy, but he also held himself in a certain way in front of others. He leaned in and rub the tip of their nose together. Han Mo held onto the young man''s shoulder and thumbed the curve.


    "I will call you Ah Shen and Shen-er when we are alone, okay?"


    Fu Shen didn''t say anything but those pretty purple eyes closed. Han Mo pulled away and yawned, pinching the boy''s cheek.


    "It is late, Shen-er. Thank you for your soup and visit. Sleep well, Ah Shen."


    Han Mo saw the relaxed shoulders and the nod, before the door closed softly. He smiled happily and felt his heart sighed.


    "Ah Shen, have I won your heart this time?"


    ==


    Staring at the moon, Ying Yue hummed a soft tune. Taking a drink of the bottle, he listened to the small waves against the bank of the sea. Wrapped in the red coat, the one Wang Li gifted him centuries ago, he snuggled into the fabric more. He closed his eyes and laid on the roof staring at the twinkles of the stars.


    "Wang Li, Nuying seems to be enjoying herself at the school. I think she will fall in love with my brother again. Lan-er is still too shy to speak to her, but he will. Fu Shen¡­ Ah Li, if you don''t come back in time, I am afraid Fu Shen will fall in love with my brother."


    He drank more.


    "I miss you."


    "Awe, I miss you too dearest Ah Yue."


    He turned to the side to see the demon grinning and Ying Yue sat up, his head clearing.


    "Is he¡­ are things going well?"


    "Mm," Ye Wu sounded and sat before him, taking his bottle, "Something is happening. Here," the demon tossed his rings back to him and he noted it was fully gold.


    The red eyed demon swallowed down some wine.


    "His soul is having trouble merging with the body."


    "What¡­ what did you use to make the body? Maybe that''s the reason?"


    "¡­"


    "Ye Wu¡­"


    "Did Wang Li tell you how he pulled himself back together?"


    Ying Yue shook his head and he felt fear crawl up his spine. Ye Wu was watching him, observing his reaction and he swallowed with worry.


    "He said¡­ he had to go through trials to¡­ come back to me. I¡­ he said he would go through all the pain again¡­ Ye Wu¡­"


    "Stop sounding like a baby," the demon huffed, "I told you. He would do anything for you. Besides, he wasn''t alone. I took care of him until he was completed."


    "I¡­ I thank you, Ye Wu," he bowed lowly, smacking his forehead on the ground, "Thank you."


    He cried quietly and the demon just drank more of the wine, staring at the moon before him. Lost in the memories of the past, Ye Wu didn''t realize he finished the bottle until he pressed it to his mouth to receive nothing. Sighing, he turned to the blonde who had sat up to stare at the moon as well.


    "Did you go through the trials to put him together?"


    "Yes, but it was not painful like it was for him. He had Heaven''s blood."


    Ying Yue pursed his lips and rolled his rings on his fingers. He closed his eyes for a moment and jumped down from the roof. He went into the shack and held the red laced fabric for a moment. He pressed it to his lips and whispered a prayer, before exiting. Ye Wu had also jumped down and glanced at him with a quirk of the brow.


    "I hope this calls to his soul," Ying Yue handed the demon the veil.


    "Hm¡­ and if it doesn''t?"


    "Then I will part with more items. I can come as well, if it would bring him back."


    Ye Wu blinked at him before laughing loudly.


    "An idiot," the demon shook his head and waved the red wedding veil before disappearing into the shadows.


    Ying Yue didn''t care what Ye Wu called him. He didn''t care about much but the thought of his husband back in his arms¡­ It motivated him and made his heart beat anxiously. He rubbed his hands and took a deep wavering breath. Wang Li could return.


    No.


    He will return to him.


    ''Come back to me, Ah Li.''

 Chapter 156 - The Only Thing Missing

    Zhang Xu Lan stared at the pink-haired female who seemed to be taking all of his father''s free time. She seemed to pull a smile from his father and even make him laugh so easily! His father doesn''t give in so easily! What did she had that he didn''t. His father would bring her along to their father-son time and he hated it.


    He did not like her.


    "Lan-er," his father spoke up and he glanced at him, alone surprisingly, "Why are you glaring?"


    "I''m not," he pouted and his father flicked his nose.


    "Nuying had been here for some time now. Why do you continue to avoid her?"


    "Why do you trust her so?"


    He retorted back crossing his arms. Letting out a sigh, his father cupped the back of his neck and his black eyes stared into golden ones.


    "She is your mother."


    "¡­"


    "Lan-er."


    "What?!"


    The hand around his nape tightened and he stared wide eyed.


    "She lost her memories. She does not remember you or I, but I believe she will love you as she did before."


    "You¡­ I don''t care."


    Xu Ling''s brows shot up with surprise and Zhang Xu Lan held onto his father''s arms.


    "We did fine without her. Me and you. We have Uncle Mo and Uncle Yue. We don''t need her. We just need us."


    "Lan-er."


    He shook his pink locks and felt his father''s shoulder pressed against his face. He hadn''t had a hug from his father in a long time. It was usually he who would hug his father and the redhead would either stand there or pat him awkwardly. On rare moments would the hug be like this: warm, comforting, and safe.


    ["Lan-er, what is wrong?"


    "Nothing."


    "Xu Lan."


    He kicked the rock and it smacked against the tree trunk. He crossed his arms and frowned deeply, still kicking the ground below him.


    "Why¡­ why don''t I have a mother? They have mothers but I don''t. Did mine not want me, us? Where is she?"


    His father''s stern face softened and he felt a hand on his head, grounding him.


    "Do you need a mother?"


    "If I say yes, are you going to find someone?"


    He saw the slight grimace as his father nodded.


    "No. I don''t need any mothers. I just need you and my uncles. No one else!"


    He heard his father''s laugh and the hand on his head pulled away to tap his nose, a loving gesture his father does. It always made Zhang Xu Lan grin.


    "Come, it will just be us then."


    His father picked him up in his arms and he relaxed into the hold.


    All he needed was his father.]


    "You said it would just be us," he murmured holding his father tighter.


    Golden eyes lowered and he rubbed his son''s back soothingly. He looked over to Nuying who was watching them, before looking away. Xu Ling sighed and closed his eyes.


    ''With a gift comes a curse.''


    ==


    Ying Yue watched Li Chu spar against one of his nephew''s team. His golden eyes sparked with interest and he nodded when he spotted good points during the battle. The bell sounded as Han Mo rang it, signifying the end of the duel. Both bowed to one another as the next group took their stand. This went on and he noted Li Hien was more reserved than her sister in battle and Fu Shen¡­ Fu Shen was a force to be reckoned with.


    He did not know what or when Han Mo and Fu Shen reconciled, but the white-haired young man was the top of the entire student body. Ying Yue covered his grin with the fan Wang Li had painted with Snow, as he saw the apprentice glance to his master. Nuying had brought over water for everyone and they were grateful. Yet, Ying Yue saw the slight narrowed of eyes his nephew was sending to the female. It lowered even more when his nephew saw the pink-haired female placed a hand on the redhead''s bicep.


    Ying Yue would have to speak with his nephew.


    Once the battle was finished, they sent the students to complete their chores. Ying Yue called over his nephew and they took to the roof.


    "Lan-er, give her a chance."


    "What? Who?"


    "Nuying. It is not difficult to see you dislike her."


    His nephew looked away and watched the students'' chit chatting and doing their chores studiously. Ying Yue placed a hand on his nephew and black eyes looked at him. He smiled and gestured him to sit down.


    "Had your father ever tell you the story of how he met your mother?"


    "He does not speak much of my mother. I mean¡­ until now when he told me she is my mother."


    Ying Yue could hear the bitter anger in his nephew''s voice, and he offered a smile.


    "Your mother was beautiful and captured your father''s heart, a heart that was guarded only for the Heavens. When I first met you, Lan-er, you were so cute, babbling and calling for your father. You only calmed the most when you were with him. Your mother loved you both and she had returned. Your father loves her and you, Lan-er. Would you not try for him?"


    Black eyes looked over to the redhead who was tucking pink locks behind the female''s ear. Golden eyes glanced up to catch his black ones, and Zhang Xu Lan saw his father stepped away. The female reached out, probably confused, and his father shook his head. He felt his stomach coil as his heart dropped.


    His uncle was right. His father loves her.


    "Okay, Uncle Yue. I¡­ I will try."


    Ying Yue sighed happily and could not help feeling like things are going well. The only thing missing was Wang Li. When his husband returned, his world would be complete.


    ==


    Ye Wu observed the body with the veil over bare chest. He glared at the souls starting to gather over the fabric, but they were not connecting. He walked around the body over and over as he paced. Should he bring the child here? Would that wake Wang Li up? He frowned and shook his head. Heaven''s Chosen cannot be brought to the Netherworld. Doing so would hurt the blonde and he promised Pang Xi, the green haired master of Ying Yue, that he won''t hurt them.


    Then what other choice does he have?


    "Ah Li, what am I missing?"


    ["Why must you plan this whole thing? Would it not be easier to tell your lover clearly?"


    Wang Li wiped his face as he held the demon mask. Ye Wu could see the strain on the unfinished body. Scars needing stitching again and unhealed littered along the Ghost King''s body.


    "I do not want him to see me this way. He would worry."


    "Always him, Ah Li. You and that child live in one another''s world. You both forget others."


    Wang Li''s silver eyes stared at him for a moment, before placing a hand on his shoulder.


    "I cannot say that is not true. I only wish to be with him always, but I will never forget how much you have done for me, Ah Wu. You are my brother."


    Ye Wu placed his hand over the one on his shoulder and stared into those moonlit eyes.


    "Then are you ready?"


    Wang Li nodded and the head demon watched the Ghost King screamed, echoing into the entire Netherworld. The cages rattled and the floor shook, as skin stitched itself together and blood leaked as an offer. When the moment was paused and Wang Li''s body spasmed, Ye Wu was there holding the boy in tears.]


    His red eyes stared at the face of the Ghost King, before glancing over at the soul refusing to do anything more than hover over the veil. Pulling out a red handkerchief with the etched uneven golden blossom, he placed it over the soul orb and stepped back.


    Nothing happened. Letting out a groan, Ye Wu rubbed his face thinking he''d need to return to the blonde for more items. Just as he was preparing himself for another visit, the pieces of Wang Li''s soul glowed golden. It rose from the bottom where the wedding veil laid, moving in one direction. His dark energy, soaked within the gifted handkerchief, seeped into the soul and moved the opposite direction of the golden light. His red eyes watched it swirl and his face brightened.


    Did he finally do it?!


    The cloth slowly fell against the laced veil, as the soul entered the body below.


    One breath. Two. Another.


    Ye Wu stepped closer and placed a hand over the cloth, staring at the beautiful face of his king. There, a beat and another, and another. The demon found his smile stretching into a grin as he waited with bated breath for Wang Li to wake. He didn''t need to wait long as silver eyes revealed.


    "Welcome back, my king."


    Ye Wu whispered with glee before he fell over from lack of food and sleep. After all, bringing Wang Li back was more important. He could hear footsteps neared him in his sleep addled brain and paused before him. He felt warmth near his cold body and fingers cupped his cheek.


    "Thank you, Ye Wu, my brother."


    ''I did it! This was Wang Li! Hah! I am definitely the best demon there ever is!''


    He welcomed the comfort of sleep, as arms wrapped around him.

 Chapter 157 - I Am Home

    Ying Yue was currently meditating with all the students. Some did well and others¡­ others would end up falling asleep or moving in their seats. Exhaling deeply, he cleared his mind and rested his tension. The presence he called for appeared before him.


    "What is it, Chosen One."


    "Jade Emperor," he bowed, "I¡­ I would like to know if my master, Pang Xi¡­. If he was reincarnated."


    There were no response and Ying Yue closed his eyes with his head lowered.


    "You wish to exchange him for the one Ye Wu brought back."


    "Yes."


    Another silence amongst the white room.


    "Pang Xi has reincarnated into a farmer with no touch from the Heavens. He is living a common life."


    "Thank you, my lord."


    Head still bowed, Ying Yue felt his heart beating excitedly. His master was alive! He had missed the green haired mentor and he knew his brothers did as well.


    "Be careful what you wish for child. Everything has a consequence."


    Then, the golden light was gone and he was alone with his thoughts. The Jade Emperor knew his wish and what he wanted, but still divulge him answers. He understood there will be flaw in his selfish desires, but¡­


    ''Wait! Did he¡­ Did he say Ye Wu brought back?! Not trying to bring back, but brought back?''


    Ying Yue opened his wet eyes as he breathed hard like he was breathless. Grinning, he stared up at the sky and exhaled deeply.


    ''Soon, my love, I will see you once more.''


    ==


    Xu Ling and Nuying were speaking quietly as their fingers touched one another''s arms lightly.


    "Is he still upset with me, Ah Ling?"


    "He will come around, just give him time," the redhead touched her face gently, as if she was an exquisite art and she couldn''t help leaning into the touch.


    "I do not know what I have done to him, for him to think so ill of me," she frowned and felt lips pressed to her forehead, causing her cheeks to flush.


    "He only worries."


    "Of what?"


    "That you''ll steal me from him."


    Her black eyes widened and her mouth parted, before understanding dawned on her. Of course that was the reason. Since she came, Xu Ling doted her and cared for her so easily as if he knew all of her. The redhead was strong, attractive, and made her stomach filled with flapping butterflies. Every time his fingers touched her, she felt an electric current racing to her heart.


    Yet she had seen the looks from the pink haired boy.


    "Then we¡­ we shouldn''t do this any longer. I should leave."


    Golden eyes closed and a sigh escaped his lips.


    Nuying pulled away and covered her mouth as she quickly left the redhead to himself. Xu Ling placed his head against the cool wall for a moment, before leaving the hallway to the cafeteria. Entering, he heard the students greet him with a bow and he returned the greeting. He sat beside his talkative son and ate silently.


    "Father, I was thinking we should take our teams to fish. We can see who''s can catch more fish!"


    "Another competition?" Han Mo perked up, "I haven''t chosen who I wanted from the both of you yet."


    "You took too long, Uncle Mo."


    "Hey! There were no time limit we spoke of!"


    Ying Yue laughed and added, "It is a great idea, Lan-er. We would be able to save coins if we fish ourselves."


    They laughed and Xu Ling was glad they had a separate table away from the students. If the children heard of every competition his son threw out, they would surely want to do them all. He glanced at the students to see how calm they were, how inexperienced at life still, even at the age of 15 or older. His golden eyes turned to his son. He already started the pink haired boy young. By the time Zhang Xu Lan was 19, he already accomplished everything Xu Ling could teach his son.


    "Father?"


    Black eyes blinked at him and Xu Ling did not realize he carded his fingers through his son''s hair like when the boy was just a child.


    "You''ve grown, is all. You are no longer a child."


    His son looked at him with furrowed brows before looking around the cafeteria.


    "Where is Nuying?"


    "She is leaving."


    "What?!"


    "You must not worry, Lan-er. I will keep my promise to you-"


    His son stood up and rushed out of the cafeteria leaving him blinking in confusion. He glanced at his brothers who were staring at him with the same expression. They left their table along with some of the students to witness Xu Lan pulling Nuying''s bag from her hands. Xu Ling stepped forward wanting to intercept, but Ying Yue pulled him back.


    "Ah Ling, let them speak."


    The redhead watched his son''s expression to see dipped brows and a frown. He saw tears in the female''s eyes. Then his son dropped his shoulders as his brows relaxed. Zhang Xu Lan looked over at him and there was a small smile upon his son''s lips. Nuying was crying and she looked at him for a moment, before walking over to him.


    "Ah Ling," she whispered softly and the redhead stepped forward, "Master Zhang¡­ he gave his blessings¡­" she smiled nervously and he turned to his son who nodded with a smile.


    He returned the smile, thankful that the pink haired boy was willing to give his mother a chance. Cupping the tear faced female, he leaned forward and kiss those lips before everyone. He heard the gasp from Nuying before the female returned the kiss. When they pulled away, she was blushing, tucking her face against his chest.


    He could hear the students cheering and some were making gagging noises, including his son.


    "I gave my blessings but I don''t want to see any of that," Xu Lan frowned, but it itched up into a grin.


    Xu Ling let out a chuckle and pulled his son to him, placing a kiss on his forehead. This caused the audience to laugh, while his son flushed embarrassed.


    "Father!"


    ==


    Ying Yue stared at the water. They were fishing for quite some time and there were no fishes to be seen. This lake was known for abundance of fishes and he remembered that to be true a century or two ago. Frowning, he glanced over at his brothers to see them also thinking the same. In addition, there were something strange in the air, like a blanket of heaviness.


    "Master Mo," Fu Shen spoke up, "Something is strange about this place."


    "Ah, you feel it too?" Han Mo saw the nod and he grinned, "That''s why you are my favorite, Shen-er," he whispered to the boy and was graced with a small shy smile.


    "Does everyone have their items with them?" The brunette questioned and many nodded, but some just stared at him with wide fearful eyes.


    "Everyone stick close to one another," Xu Lan spoke up as he stepped back from the edge of the river.


    "Do you sense something, Lan-er?" Xu Ling questioned and his son nodded. The pink haired boy could sense them much easier than he could, so he trusted his son.


    Ushering the students and placing a barrier, they waited. Their students were not ready for something stronger than the weakest demon. They knew whatever it was, was not a low-level demon from how much it hid itself from them.


    The water moved and rocked.


    Each master held their weapon and prepared themselves for a fight as the rings in the water grew. Then it was silent once more.


    "Have your talismans ready," Han Mo instructed and some of the student had it ready, some struggled to keep their shaking hands steady, and others were too frozen to move.


    Just as suddenly, something popped out of the water twisting. The roar rattled their nerves and some of the students had fallen over from the sheer fear of the creature. Ying Yue just stared at the water dragon, one he had never seen before.


    It moved to him, quick and fast, but his nephew swung his twin blades at it. Another roar echoed in the lake as the water dragon swung its tail, sending waves of water at them. By the time the splash slipped off, they watched the dragon slinked down the river.


    "It''s running away!" "We must grab it!"


    Ying Yue agreed they needed to capture the water dragon or else it would eat all the fishes in the river. This would only lead to lack of meal for the people in all sectors.


    He took to his blade as the others ushered where to go on land. He could see the dragon demon just underneath the surface of water and blue eyes watching him. It twisted underneath some water homes from the village in the south before appearing once more just below the surface.


    ''Is it playing with me?''


    Ying Yue wondered as he followed closely. Another twist around the corner and the light blonde knew he caught the water dragon. It was heading to a bank, a pocket of water, a dead end. Jumping off his blade, he turned the corner only to find his breath pulled out of him.


    Raven hair and red robe.


    The man had his hand up like he was petting the dragon who cooed at him. Heart in his throat, Ying Yue stepped forward and the man stopped. He licked his lips and touched his rings, swallowing his nerves as he opened his mouth.


    "Ah Li?" He whispered like a prayer at night.


    The man in red turned and Ying Yue was brought back to before they parted for centuries. Ye Wu certainly made his love looked just like he did. There were no scratch on him. He looked as smooth as their first lives together.


    The man smiled and Ying Yue''s heart fluttered.


    "Hello my wife. I am home."

 Chapter 158 - Uncle Li

    "This¡­ this is no dream?" He had to ask. He had imagined this moment for years, for centuries, for so many moons he lost count. He watched his lover walk to him, wrapped his arms around him, and whispered loving words in his ears.


    "I apologize it took me so long, Ah Yue. But I am here now. I shall make up every day I was gone to you, however you wish of me."


    He laughed and cried and laughed some more as he held his husband tighter to him. This was Wang Li. This was his Wang Li! Wang Li was warm. Wang Li was holding him. Wang Li was kissing him. Wang Li was here. He was here.


    Ying Yue let out a quiet whimper when those delicious lips pulled away. He heard the soft laugh from his husband, who was wiping his face of tears. He will thank Ye Wu and he would-


    ''Master. I have to find him,'' he thought and was determined to bring the demon and the green haired man together again.


    "My king?!"


    The voice of Han Mo sounded and silver eyes glanced over. The brunette was staring in confusion, the redhead was frowning deeply, and his nephew was staring in awe. Ying Yue bit his bottom lip as he held his lover''s hand.


    "Where is the water demon?" Li Chu questioned looking around.


    The blonde turned back to see no water dragon, but a big wet cat. His eyes widened and he glanced at his husband to see a soft smile on those thin lips.


    "Sn¡­ Snow?"


    The snow leopard shook itself of water and bounced over to him, nuzzling his body. He laughed and nuzzled back, causing the students to asked if they could pet it too. He nodded and pulled Wang Li with him to speak with his brothers. His nephew was still staring wide eyes at Wang Li, who also stared back with a concentrated look.


    "I¡­ You¡­ Uh¡­"


    "Lan-er, this is Wang Li, my¡­ my husband."


    Those black eyes widened even further and the pinkette bowed, covering flushing cheeks.


    "I¡­ I am Zhang Xu Lan, my father is Xu Ling, and I am¡­ It is nice to meet you, Uncle Li."


    "Xu Lan," the raven haired man whispered and lifted the pinkette''s chin, "Ah, I remember now. You have grown well."


    "Th¡­ thank you," Xu Lan squeaked out and Xu Ling pulled his son away from the Ghost King.


    "Lan-er, go pet the cat."


    "But-"


    Golden eyes stared at his son''s black ones and the boy slowly went to where his father told him to go. The redhead glared at the man in red, who stared back with a blank look. He glanced at the blonde to see big golden eyes staring at him.


    "You died."


    "Obviously."


    "How did you return?"


    "By my wife''s love."


    Xu Ling''s frown deepened and Ying Yue squeezed his lover''s hand tighter. His eldest brother searched his face and he saw the veins pulse at the redhead''s temple.


    "Who else."


    "Ah Ling¡­"


    "The demon. He brought you back, not the Jade Emperor."


    Ying Yue stepped forward with a frown and furrowed brows.


    "How did you know the Heavens didn''t bring him back?"


    "He came to tell me the choice you made, little brother. I am thankful and I owe you for the sacrifice you made, but this¡­ to bring the Ghost King back through the means of that demon will only spell trouble. What was pass may occur again."


    Xu Ling stated with a sigh, "Would you both be able to survive it again?"


    "Yes," Wang Li said confidently as he glanced over at Snow behaving, "The prophecy was completed. There should be no curse, but I must return to give Ye Wu company as well."


    "Which are?" The blonde questioned.


    Wang Li rubbed his cheek, "That depends what time of day you wish of me, my beloved."


    "Every time I wake to when I sleep," Ying Yue mumbled before sighing, "When the sun is highest to when the sky is darkest, I would like you here with me."


    "As you wish, my love," Wang Li whispered and leaned down. His eyelashes fluttered and he waited for the kiss, only to fell a long lick across his face. Surprise color him before he laughed petting the snow leopard.


    "Pardon my interruption," the white-haired young man bowed, "Do you know where the water dragon had gone, sir."


    Wang Li stared at the boy he remembered and found a smile covering his lips. He touched the boy''s head and moved his palm up the scarred cheek. He saw purple eyes staring at him with slight fear and interest.


    "I am glad you returned, Ah Shen."


    "Thank you," Shen looked down shyly.


    "Have you lived well?"


    "I¡­ yes. Sir, please answer my question."


    Wang Li removed his touched and laughed lightly as the students joined in to listen.


    "If I say that it was I who was the water dragon. What would you do?"


    Purple eyes widened and glanced over at his master while the students all murmured and stared at their grandmaster. Ying Yue glanced at Wang Li to see silver eyes staring at the white-haired boy.


    Fu Shen took out the yellow talisman, marked to ward the demon, and forced his shaky hands to steady. Wang Li smiled softly and grabbed the small wrist to press the demon charm against his chest.


    "Go on."


    The hand trembled in his grip and Wang Li spoke softer.


    "Try it, Ah Shen. It is alright."


    Shen stared at him and his eyes, so clear, wavered. Wang Li offered a smile as the talisman burned away. The sounds of the children commenting that he was not a demon due to the burning of the charm.


    Wang Li pulled Fu Shen to his chest and held the boy he missed. The boy melted into his hug like he always had centuries ago and his silver eyes looked over to see the twins he grew up with.


    ''How lucky of me to return now when life had reset.''


    His silver eyes slid to his wife, and he squeezed the hand in his.


    ==


    "Are you upset that he returned, Ah Mo?" Ying Yue questioned quietly as everyone gravitated toward his husband.


    The two of them were currently watching Snow and Wang Li dancing to the sound of the children''s drumming against their knees. Even Nuying could not help but watch the spectacle, to Xu Ling''s chagrin.


    "I am happy you are happy, Ah Yue, but I hope my relationship with Ah Shen will not change as before."


    Ying Yue nodded in understanding and he was sure the redhead felt the same.


    "Ah Yue," Wang Li''s voice called out, "Come, my love."


    He felt his ears burn as he joined at his husband''s side and flushed even more when lips pressed against his cheek. He heard his lover chuckle against his ear at his shyness.


    "You must be hungry, Ah Li," Ying Yue cleared his throat, "Shall we eat?"


    His husband smiled amused with a nod. The children followed Wang Li like a flock of ducklings to its mother. That made Ying Yue laugh as his thoughts tickled his heart.


    "What do you find amusing, my wife?" Wang Li whispered as they entered the cafeteria.


    "Nothing¡­ ouch-"


    Ying Yue felt the pinch at his side, and he punched his lover lightly and heard the laughter. They sat at the table for the masters and Ying Yue felt an arm wrapped around his waist, with fingers dragging up and down his hip bone.


    He was thirsty.


    "My king," Han Mo spoke up, "I know we have not had the best of relationship, but you should know I will not stop wanting Fu Shen."


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "I know you care for him deeply, Zhang Han Mo. You confuse him, interest him, worry him," Wang Li stared at the brunette, "But understand that Fu Shen belongs to me. He will stay at my side for every life he lives."


    "Then I will continue to fight to be by his side."


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    Wang Li''s lips curled and there was a twinkle in those silver eyes.


    "Challenge accepted."


    "Wait¡­ what?"


    Wang Li drank his ginger tea, hiding the grin across his face. Fu Shen brought their meal to the masters while the students all went to grab their own bowls. The white haired boy placed the last bowl down and was about to return to grab himself a bowl, but stopped when he felt fingers around his wrist.


    "Ah Shen, grab yourself a bowl and sit beside me."


    Purple eyes blinked at the raven haired man before glancing at his master, his sisters, then back into silver eyes.


    "Would you like me to grab you a bowl?"


    "N¡­ no. I shall grab it myself."


    Han Mo frowned glaring at the Ghost King as the boy listened and sat beside his king. Xu Ling, Xu Lan, and Nuying joined the table.


    "Uncle Li," the pinkette started nervously, "You¡­ why did you make Uncle Yue wait so long? He cried a lot and drank and didn''t want to talk to anyone an-"


    A bread was stuffed into his mouth from the embarrassed blonde. Silver eyes turned to him, searching his face but Ying Yue looked away to eat quietly.


    "For how long?" Wang Li whispered.

 Chapter 159 - I Excite Easily

    *Disclaimer: there will be sexy smuts here on out in Vol. 4, much of it due to Ah Yue and Ah Li and their constant need to please one another after so long. Please enjoy.*


    Ying Yue did not reply, but his nephew had as much as a big mouth as the brunette brother.


    "Since I was 10, right father?"


    "It was before that, Lan-er. More like a week after they were separated," Han Mo added.


    "What? That long?"


    "Yup. Your uncle is a bit of a crybaby and-"


    A bun was stuffed into Han Mo''s mouth to stop his gossip. He blinked at his little brother''s red face and couldn''t decipher if it was anger or embarrassment.


    "Uncle Yue is a-"


    "Master Zhang," Nuying spoke up, "It is disrespectful to speak about your uncle in such ways. Being away from someone you love is painful. A pain one should not wish to bear."


    "Nuying," Xu Ling spoke softly and she blinked in surprise as she glanced at the redhead.


    "Ah, I¡­ I apologize."


    Ying Yue continued to feel the thumb running over his hipbone and he leaned a little closer to his lover. Wang Li kissed the top of his head and he laughed quietly.


    "Nuying," his husband spoke up and he glanced at the female, "I sense your memories are blocked."


    Black eyes widened and she leaned forward.


    "You¡­ You can? Can you unblock them? I¡­ I want to know where my child is and¡­ and my lover."


    Wang Li glanced at Xu Ling and Xu Lan.


    "Would that be for the best? You are happy here. You have people who care for you, a man who loves you. If you were to learn who your child and lover was, would you wish to know the truth? If they had grown up without you, made a life of their own, would you assume you can just take your role once more? What would you do if your child called another mother?"


    Nuying was quiet as she looked down with tears in her eyes, slipping down her cheeks.


    "What if your lover and child is here, Nuying. Trust your feelings. Things will be clear soon."


    Wang Li finished and she furrowed her brows in confusion. Xu Ling''s hand was comforting against her hand and she stared at him. Would she leave him once she knew who her lover was? Was this her second chance? There had to be a reason she could not remember her past, right?


    She squeezed that hand and felt a soft cream pink handkerchief against her cheeks. A female''s cloth. Perhaps a gift that was given to the redhead. She had to remember to ask Xu Ling later when they were together in bed.


    "Ah Mo? Where are you going?" Ying Yue called out and the brunette waved.


    "Tired. Good night everyone!" Han Mo waved and the students bowed.


    The blonde glanced to see a mischievous smile on his lover''s face. A part of him worried about this game his lover plays, but it also brought a sense of familiarity. Fingers moved to glide over the top of his ass and he choked the meat in his mouth. He felt the light pat against his back and he wiped his mouth.


    "Shall we go to bed, my wife?"


    He flushed and nodded quietly.


    "I will meet you there in a moment. I wish to speak with Fu Shen."


    Ying Yue tilted his head, before nodding slowly. Saying his goodbyes, some students joined him to the sleeping quarters. When he entered his room, he looked around and bit his lip. He quickly cleaned and hid his bag, the one with the wooden box and plum wines.


    He almost jumped when he heard his door opened and closed. Turning around, he saw his husband and his heart stuttered against his ribs. Silver eyes took him in as those eyes dragged lewdly down his body and up again. Ying Yue covered his hardness and for a moment, Wang Li just stared at him with blinks, before letting out a laugh.


    "Are you still shy, my beloved?"


    "It''s just¡­ it''s been a long time and I excite easily with you here," he mumbled and fingers touched behind his ear and he gasped.


    "It is as if I never died¡­" Wang Li whispered staring at his face, "You look just as beautiful."


    Lips neared and his heart melted when they touched. Fingers trailed down his neck to move down his robe to his belt. Too lost in the feel of Wang Li''s hot mouth and wet tongue, he felt the cool air prickling his naked skin. His husband pulled back to stare at him. His lips were wet and bruised from the suckling, robes falling off his shoulders, and the tenting of his bottoms made a deep groan escape from his lover.


    Wang Li kissed his neck, leaving love bites on his way down to hardened nipples, down abdomen, to the covered pelvis. He pulled the rest of the clothing down to reveal the blonde''s hard cock.


    "Ah Li?" Ying Yue panted out as he glanced down. He stepped out of his bottom and then¡­ and then it was hard to think.


    His husband did not tease him with tongue and light kisses. His cock was sucked, entering wet hot mouth. He moaned loudly and Wang Li lifted a leg to throw over his shoulder, and Ying Yue chocked out a sharp inhale. A hand grabbed onto the black hair and the other on his king''s shoulder. His hips were bucking and the sucking got tighter.


    "Mm, ah! My¡­ ah¡­ husband¡­ I¡­" Ying Yue''s hair swung with his thrusts and his body ignited when he felt a finger pressed against his rim.


    "Yes. Please¡­ please, Ah Li," he begged and Wang Li slowed his movement and slowed his sucking. He lifted his fingers for Ying Yue to suck. His wife did. Wet, flushing, and half lidded golden eyes stared down at him. Wang Li rolled his tongue and sucked quick and hard, earning a buck of his wife''s hip and more saliva dripping down his fingers.


    Pulling his fingers out of Ying Yue''s lips, he moved back to press against the tight entrance. A finger entered and Ying Yue moaned moving against the finger and his mouth. Wang Li continued moving the fingers as Ying Yue used his mouth. He could feel his lover was coming from the fingers clenching his hair and the slight shiver running up his wife''s body. He pushed in another finger and sucked hard.


    "Ah!" Ying Yue cried curling his back inwards, over his lover''s head as he came.


    He breathed hard as the buzzing in his mind slowly cleared. The fingers stayed inside him as his lover kissed up his leg, removing it from his shoulder. Wang Li licked a strip up his sensitive penis, before it dipped into his belly button. The drag of wet tongue moved up to play with his hard nipples, making him squirm in want.


    "Hm, tell me what you want, my love."


    "You. I want you."


    Ying Yue kissed Wang Li deep, hot, sensual. He felt the bed against his back and the fingers in him moved faster. His mewls were drank down by Wang Li, enjoying his squeals and moans. His prostate was pressed with every thrust of the curled fingers inside him. His sensitive penis filled from the lack of sexual relationships for centuries. Just as he was about to come once more, his lover pulled away from his mouth and ass hole. His pucker clenched and winked from emptiness.


    "Husband."


    Wang Li chuckled and removed his clothing. Ying Yue watched the reveal of beautiful smooth skin. His eyes drank in the naked form as his golden eyes trailed down the tattooless chest to the thick dick before him, one he remembered brought pleasure inside him. He bit his bottom lip in anticipation as Wang Li moved to hover over him. His husband did not move, letting him feel the weight of his hard cock over his hardening one. Silver eyes just stared at him, as if to memorize his face.


    "What is it, my love?"


    "Your beauty, my wife. I still cannot believe you are mine."


    Ying Yue felt his face heating up with even more warmth than pleasure.


    "You still know how to speak," he mumbled with a smile.


    "It is the truth."


    Lips kissed him again and Wang Li''s large shaft pressed against his entrance. The tip slowly pressed in and Ying Yue gasped loudly. Moaning, he rolled his hips and felt the thick girth pushed in more. Panting out, he arched his back with need and hands moved up and down his sides.


    "So tight, just for me," Wang Li laughed softly, breathlessly against his face.


    "Mm, yes," he moaned when fingers wrapped around his weeping hardness.


    "My perfect beautiful wife," his husband thrusted all the way in and Ying Yue screamed with pleasure. His walls clenched and contracted as he came with his hair toss around below him. His body shivered and he whimpered feeling his sensitive cock being pumped pass his orgasm.


    "So willing," Wang Li groaned rolling his hips, "How I missed you."


    Ying Yue laughed breathlessly and kissed his lover, "Show me, my husband, how much you missed me."


    Wang Li did just that.


    He moved fast, thrusted deep, pulled his strong tight walls. He teased, touched, and pounded into his prostate, bringing Ying Yue into blissful peace and tears. When Wang Li came the first time that night, he had climaxed three times prior.


    At this moment, sitting on his lover''s lap with his back against hot chest, he was heading to his fifth orgasm.


    "Ah, ah, Li¡­ Li¡­ mmph," Ying Yue panted as he bounced on Wang Li''s hardness inside him.


    "Feels good, doesn''t¡­ it, Ah Yue," Wang Li nibbled his sensitive nape and his hips squirmed.


    "Y¡­ yes. Love it. Love you."

 Chapter 160 - They Deserve Death

    Wang Li thrusted up and Ying Yue mewled, tightening his hole. This earn him a deep moan from his lover and the speed picked up. Higher and higher he reached his peak as he shut his eyes breathing through with his mouth slacked. The slick and slaps of skin echoed in his room where they reunite with their bodies, their hearts, their mind.


    Ying Yue came in tears and shivers, panting loudly in his room. Wang Li tightened his hips and after a few stuttered thrusts, the thick cock inside him pulsed before flooding his insides with his lover''s sperm once more. Fullness. He felt so full and needed and loved.


    Kisses were pressed against the back of his ear, neck, and shoulder. He laughed breathlessly and leaned back as arms wrapped around him. Closing his eyes, he felt whole again.


    When he woke, Wang Li was not there and he sighed. Stretching his arms, he could still feel the bruise Wang Li left on him and his lips spread into a smile. He dressed and brought clean clothes with him to the bath. The water in the mountains were cold to bathe, which meant they needed to boil it first.


    Normally one to like the warmth, he needed the cold to chill his heated bruised body. He entered the water and his body shivered from the cold morning air. Ignoring the chill, he sunk deeper before reaching for a soap bar lined at the edge of the pool. Cleaning himself, he hummed softly, but he quickly stopped when he heard a sound. Blinking over to where the sound came from, it was further in the pool and with the morning mist, there was a slight fog.


    Ying Yue could not see anything, but the moan sounded and he found his mouth gaping. Quickly putting the bar back with as little sound as he could, he dunk himself to clean the soap off. Another moan and he felt his face hot walking out of the pool and wrapping himself quickly.


    "Ah! Puh¡­ please!"


    Throwing his outer robe over him, he did not bother wrapping his belt because he had to leave.


    ==


    When Wang Li returned, he told his husband what happened and the man laughed.


    "It¡­ it isn''t funny, Ah Li."


    "Do you know who it was?"


    He flushed and turned away, only to have his lover boxed his face against the wall.


    "Are you jealous we haven''t done it there? We can remedy that."


    "Ah, Ah Li!" Ying Yue covered his cheeks, shyly looking away.


    "That wasn''t a no, my beloved," Wang Li whispered and licked his ear, licking inside his ear like he would his entrance. His pucker tightened with the feel of that devious tongue. A nibble at his lobe and a pull of his skin caused him to clutch his husband''s collar.


    "You have students who are growing up with one another. It is bound to happen."


    "Y¡­ yes, but- Ah! Ah Li, don''t-"


    "How will you be able to stop them from exercising in sex when you, their beautiful grandmaster, could not stop wanting to make love with me?"


    The thigh continued to rock up against his hardness and Ying Yue bit his lips. He felt Wang Li kissing him, opening his mouth and digging in looking for treasure. He moaned and panted against his lover''s lips.


    "I ¡­ I don''t just want to make love with you, Ah¡­ ugh¡­ Ah Li."


    Wang Li smiled and kissed him softer, slower, more intimate than before. He whimpered as he was reaching closer to release. He suddenly felt his husband pulled back and dropped to his knees. Ying Yue''s eyes widened and his mouth opened to speak, but all that came out was a moan.


    Flushing, he covered his mouth as they hid in the alley. It didn''t take long before he came in his lover''s eager mouth. His hands still covered his mouth as his lover pulled his pants back up and fixed his clothing.


    Wang Li let out a soft laugh licking his lips. Removing the blonde''s hands from pretty red lips, he kissed his wife lovingly.


    "Go, they will be waiting for Grandmaster Yue to teach them how to be good," Wang Li tucked his hair and wiped his face.


    "Are you not coming?"


    "I''m going to take care of myself first," Wang Li said and Ying Yue''s golden eyes moved down to see the tent in his husband''s pant.


    "I can¡­ I can help you."


    "Later my love, tonight," his lover whispered and smiled, kissing him.


    Ying Yue bit his lips and nodded, glancing behind him at his beautiful husband, before returning to his students. Wang Li sighed and leaned against the wall, staring at the sky. He closed his eyes and smiled, happy that he was with Ying Yue again.


    ''For how long?''


    The voice in his head repeated to him every single day since his returned to his wife. He did not know the answer and he hope there was no answer, but the world was unfair.


    All he can do was love Ying Yue for as long as he could. Whatever happened after, he will handle it. No one can keep Ying Yue from him.


    Silver eyes flickered red.


    ==


    Ying Yue was currently walking around the lecture hall, the classroom for their students. There were snickering once in a while and his golden eyes looked at the group of giggling students confused. He glanced over to see the redhead also noticed.


    "Alright, times up. Come hand your work. Go practice your swordsmanship while we look it over," Zhang Xu Lan smiled and the students were happy to return to the outside air. Ying Yue, his brothers, and his nephew divvied up the work. Lost in correcting the works, they suddenly heard screaming from the students. Rushing outside, Ying Yue felt his heart stopped.


    Wang Li was holding his blade at a trembling student and his eyes¡­ they were not fully silver. Quickly rushing over, he looked to see Li Chu and Li Hien were slightly behind his husband and¡­


    ''Fu Shen?''


    "I had hoped you learned to change your ways, child. Yet, you continued to hurt what is mine. For that, you shall be punished," Wang Li said with the same coldness that Ying Yue felt so many centuries before.


    "Uncle Li," Zhang Xu Lan spoke up cautiously pulling the trembling child back behind the pinkette, "We must hear both sides before-"


    "I had witnessed all the trouble he had put Fu Shen through. His sisters would tell them to stop and they continued. This was not the first and it will not be the last."


    "Fu Shen¡­?" Han Mo felt his heart heavy seeing the white haired boy with a blank face as blood dripped down his lips.


    "Go on. Tell your masters what you all have done."


    The four students kneeled and begged forgiveness, but Wang Li just laughed coldly.


    "The first time I found out, I had hoped as future cultivators, you would take responsibility like your masters taught you, but no one did. Then it became worse than just humiliation. The only punishment for such act of shameless disgusting pathetic unrighteousness deserves death."


    Ying Yue held his lover''s wrist, feeling the pop of veins from how hard the raven haired man was holding back.


    "Master Zhang and Master Xu, please take these four and keep them in one room. Master Mo, please escort Li Chu, Li Hien, and Fu Shen back to his room. Anyone who had witnessed any of situation, please follow Master Mo."


    "No," Wang Li stated, "Fu Shen will stay with me."


    Han Mo opened his mouth to argue, but the look on the white-haired boy''s face made him shut his mouth.


    "We will stay with him," Li Chu stated, but Ying Yue asked that they followed the brunette and the twins reluctantly joined.


    Ying Yue watched as his lover wiped the purple eyed boy''s face from the dirt and blood. He watched as Wang Li fixed the white hair tightened at the nape of his neck. Hands cupped the child''s face and purple eyes blinked blankly into silver eyes.


    "I should have intervened earlier. Forgive me, Ah Shen. You are hurt once again."


    Fu Shen just stared at the Grandmaster''s lover and he didn''t understand why the man cared for him so deeply. He didn''t understand why Master Mo was interested in him. He didn''t understand why people were angry with him. He didn''t understand his classmates would humiliate him. He didn''t understand why they would-


    "You belong to me, Ah Shen. I will not let anyone hurt you again. They will die."


    "Why?" He questioned quietly.


    "Do you not wish for their deaths?"


    "Why do you care for me? I am not special."


    He saw the handsome man smile at him softly and felt thumbs rub his wet cheeks. He couldn''t understand why this man looked at him in such warmth or even touched him so gently. He felt lips against his forehead before he was pulled against warm chest.


    "You do not need to be special for me to care for you, Ah Shen," Wang Li rubbed the boy''s back, "But you and I both know you are far more special than you think. Who could cook like you here? Even Master Xu and Master Zhang cannot compete with you."


    Fu Shen let out a soft laugh against the red robe. Lifting his arm, he hugged the man back and closed his eyes for a moment.


    ''Is he related to mother?''


    "Sir- I apologize, my king," Fu Shen pulled away and wiped his face with his sleeves, "Do you¡­ do you know my mother?"


    He saw the man tilt his head with an amused smile.


    "Am I your king?"


    "Master Mo calls you so, am I wrong?"


    "Not wrong," Wang Li rubbed his warmed ear, "Just reminds me of old times."


    Fu Shen was starting to feel his face heat up with the constant rubbing of his ear and he looked down shyly. Wang Li laughed and pulled away.


    "Why do you ask of your mother?"


    "I¡­ Are you related to her?"


    Wang Li hummed and glanced over at Ying Yue, who was just watching with interest.


    "I know of her, but I have never met her," Wang Li stated to see the frown on the boy''s face, "Did you wish that I was?"


    Fu Shen did not reply and continued to look away, but the lift of his chin brought his pale purple eyes to stare into silver ones.


    "I will be whatever you wish. I only wish to protect you, Shen-er."


    Fu Shen felt his face heat up and he turned to be faced with Grandmaster Yue''s observing eyes. Clearing his throat, Fu Shen pulled back his expression as his heart beats happily.


    "Thank you, my king."


    Wang Li grinned and turned to his wife, reaching out to hold those soft hand, "Now, can we kill them?"

 Chapter 161 - What Is Your Purpose For Me

    Han Mo was upset. No. furious. How the hell did all these things happened without him knowing! He was pacing the floor as the females explained all the issues that occurred under their noses.


    "Why had none of you came to us?"


    "Because Fu Shen would feel embarrassed. He does not want any of the masters to worry," Li Chu frowned.


    "He keeps to himself a lot. Ah Shen does not want attention on himself. But¡­ we should have said something sooner. What they did¡­" Li Hien covered her mouth as tears welled up her eyes.


    He covered his face and exhaled deeply. He agreed with the Ghost King. They should die.


    ==


    "It¡­ it was just for fun!"


    "We were just joking."


    "He didn''t care."


    "Can we just leave?"


    "Enough!" Xu Ling shouted and the children sat still, "You four thought stripping a fellow student of their clothing and hitting him was fun and joking? Instead of stopping there, you all decide to go further and-"


    The redhead fisted his hands so tight, the whites of his knuckles were prevalent. They could hear the grinding of teeth from how hard the older man gritted his teeth. The pink haired master was staring at them with a blank face, before lips spread into a grin.


    All four students trembled from the evil grin.


    "I know what we should do for punishment, father."


    ==


    In the end, the four students were not killed. They were stripped of their clothing, completed all the chores naked, had to stand in the courtyard with their hands tied behind their backs for all to witness.


    "They should be killed and show your students something like this will not be tolerated," Wang Li stated staring deadly at the abusers who avoided his silver eyes.


    "Ah Li," Ying Yue frowned and really do not know what to do.


    "Fu Shen agrees with me."


    "Whatever my king wishes."


    "Fu Shen," Ying Yue aimed his frown at the young man, "Master Li isn''t always right. He has been wrong before."


    "Hm? When?" Wang Li quirked his brow at the blonde.


    "Well, when you thought the honey filled cake was still good when it was moldy."


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "It wasn''t my best moment."


    Ying Yue laughed and felt his lover leaned down toward him. He felt a kiss on the tip of his nose, as lips trailed to his ear.


    "No sweet can replace the taste of you, my love. You are what I crave," Wang Li whispered licking his ear. Ying Yue flushed and covered his lover''s laughing mouth. He looked over at Fu Shen who was just staring at the four boys with a glare.


    "Fu Shen, I apologize for what had happened. I think the best thing to do is to kick them out of the school," Ying Yue offered and purple eyes turned to him with a nod. He smiled and glared at his lover with burning cheeks, when his mischievous husband licked his palm. Pulling his hands away, he wiped it on his lover''s robe and stuck out his tongue.


    A pinch to his ass made him jump and he was about to¡­ to¡­ he was about to do something, but the white-haired boy blinked at him innocently. Clearing his throat, he looked over to Han Mo who was staring at Fu Shen with hesitancy.


    "Ah Li, can we speak in private," He saw his husband opened his mouth, "Han Mo will stand beside Fu Shen for the moment. Is that alright, Fu Shen?"


    The boy nodded and Wang Li frowned with dipped brows. Ying Yue called the brunette over and Han Mo joined them.


    "Is something wrong, Ah Yue?"


    "I just need to speak with Wang Li for a moment. Han Mo, is it alright for you to stay with him. Li Chu and Li Hien will be joining you soon as well. Is that alright?"


    "Oh, yes. Of course," Han Mo nodded and glanced at the purple eyed young man, "Take your time."


    Ying Yue pulled a glaring Wang Li away and to his room. He sighed and fell against the bed with his face to the ceiling.


    "Ah Li, why didn''t you tell me? I could have done something. Ah Shen¡­ he¡­ I will not forgive myself."


    The bed dipped and Ying Yue felt his lover''s forehead against his. He cried softly and Wang Li just listen quietly. When his tears slowed and the hiccup stopped, his lover wiped his face dry and held him close.


    "You think to highly of others, my love."


    "You think to lowly of them."


    "¡­"


    "Well¡­ unless they have a purpose for you."


    Wang Li pulled away and stared at him. He felt the large hand moved behind his ear and tugged at his hair. He winced slightly and blinked up at his husband.


    "Then what is your purpose for me."


    "¡­"


    "Your body, perhaps?"


    Tongue licked his lips and he opened his mouth, but Wang Li pulled away. He made an upset noise, but his king let out a deep laugh. His robe opened to reveal his bare chest and he felt nails lightly digging down his abdomen. Moaning, he spread his legs for his lover, but Wang Li pulled away and turned him over. His husband lifted his hips and pulled down his bottoms to show his bare ass.


    "Maybe your purpose is for me to punish."


    A smack sounded and Ying Yue gasped feeling the burn. Another and another and Ying Yue gritted his teeth. Fingers lightly touched the reddened skin, before he felt wet kisses on the marks.


    "Ah Yue," he heard Wang Li sighed, "Is this what you want? To be punished?"


    He felt Wang Li laid beside him and cupped his face.


    "It is not your fault, Ying Yue. Fu Shen is strong. He also has me, you, his sisters, and that brother of yours. He will be fine and you, my beloved, did the best you could. Is this not what you and your brother''s have been teaching those students?" Wang Li smirked as he felt fingers ran up and down his spine.


    Ying Yue sat up and kissed his lover. Removing the rest of his outfit, he straddled his lover and wrapped his fingers around Wang Li. He heard the pleased moan and kisses down his neck. His husband wrapped around both lengths and Ying Yue thrusted up. They moved and kissed and tasted each other''s mouth. Panting out, he could feel the coil in his stomach as his balls rose ready to shoot his load-


    Knock knock


    They both stopped and Ying Yue glanced at the door, but bit his lips hard when his lover continued to pump.


    "Ah Li! Some¡­ ah."


    "Who is it," Wang Li called out stroking them and continuing his kisses against his lover''s skin.


    "It''s me uncle. Uncle Mo said we should go speak with the parents of the children since it is getting late."


    "Lan-er, please go with your father to speak with them. You both are logical in your speak. If I go, I would kill them."


    The pumping quickened and Ying Yue bit his lover''s shoulder.


    "What about Uncle Yue? Is he there with you Uncle Li?"


    Wang Li slowed down and Ying Yue tried to catch his breath.


    "Yes. I, ah!"


    Ying Yue dug his fingernails into his lover''s skin as the fist moved faster.


    "Are you alright, Uncle Yue? Do you need help?"


    "N¡­ No!" Ying Yue said quickly, shaking his head as his hips twerked and stuttered.


    "Do not worry, Lan-er. I will take care of him," Wang Li said breathlessly and watched his lover cover his mouth from sharing his pleasurable noise. He stopped pumping and his wife stared at him beggingly. He let out a soft laugh and lifted the blonde.


    "Well, Uncle Yue. What do you want us to say? Can I just come in?"


    "N... no," Ying Yue held back his moan as he sunk into his lover''s hard cock, "Be honest, bu¡­ but without¡­ without revealing it was¡­ Fu¡­ Fu Shen."


    "Okay."


    Ying Yue relaxed a bit as his lover kissed the moans from his lips. He bounced on the long hardness pressing against his prostate with every thrust. He pulled away from the kiss when a particular thrust had his body trembling like a candle flame in the wind.


    "Mmff¡­ Ah, Ah Li," he panted arching his back and Wang Li gripped his ass, thrusting up into him deeper, faster, harder.


    "What are you doing in there?"


    The heat of his body turned cold as Ying Yue''s eyes widened. He thought his nephew had left, but he was right outside¡­ listening¡­ to them¡­ to their voices¡­


    "Xu Lan, why are you still here," Wang Li stated as if he was not sweating and moving into him even more.


    "Father said Uncle Yue should join us."


    Wang Li looked at his wife who was back to covering his mouth and clutching his shoulder. He can feel the drip of blood dripping down where nails dug in, but just watching his beautiful wife lost in pleasure was worth all the scars.


    "I see. Give him a moment, Xu Lan."


    "A moment for what?"


    Wang Li laughed and saw Ying Yue''s head lowered, body bouncing like he was vibrating. Wrapping his hand around his wife''s leaking penis, the blonde threw his head back as his back curved. Wang Li groaned feeling the constricting walls around his throbbing cock. He quickly grabbed the back of his lover''s neck and brought the blonde''s face back to his. He kissed and sucked the moans, before he came inside his lover.


    "You are needed my love," Wang Li panted leaving light kisses on his wife''s face.


    "Mm," Ying Yue sounded with heavy breath before pulling back. He pulled off and felt the cum slipping down his crack. He stumbled a bit as he grabbed his clothes. His body was still buzzing and his husband wiped the cum slipping down his leg. He was helped and dressed by his husband, making him feel loved.


    His hair was retied and once Wang Li nodded, he opened the door to find his nephew chewing on a candy.


    "Ah, uncle, what took you so long?"


    "I¡­ I was busy," he cleared his throat and Xu Lan looked inside to see Uncle Li reading a book smiling at him.


    "We will be back soon Uncle Li!" The pinkette waved bye and the raven-haired man waved back, laughing behind the book.

 Chapter 162 - I Have A Purpose

    The talk¡­ went as well as he thought it would. The parents were upset with their children and the school. The students were upset they cannot return, but Ying Yue stated they had broken the rules and done it more than once. Returning to the school, he checked in with Fu Shen to find Wang Li was with the boy and the twins. Smiling, he laughed quietly when Snow jumped onto the chessboard messing up the game.


    "Snow," Li Chu whined, "I was winning!"


    "Meow," Snow''s ears dropped and blue eyes became bigger.


    "I''m still mad," the blue haired female crossed her arms and pouted, but the nudging from the big cat made her let out a laugh, "Alright, alright."


    She received a lick from Snow and the big cat''s blue eyes twinkled when he was noticed. The snow leopard rushed to him and jumped, causing him to fall backwards. Laughing, he felt the wet licks of his pet.


    "Snow," a few students called out, "Come, let''s play!"


    Snow perked up and bounced to play with the other students. Sitting up, he looked over at Wang Li to catch amused eyes.


    ==


    "I was thinking," Wang Li snapped his hips hard against his ass, dragging the thickness snugged inside him further up.


    "How much you love me?" Ying Yue let out a laugh only to moan when Wang Li rolled his hips.


    "I don''t need to think of how much I love you, my wife," Wang Li wrapped his hands on his and pulled it over his head, "I know how much I love you."


    The drag of the hard shaft inside him was slow, agonizingly so. Laid down on the bed with his lover''s weight over his back, it should had made him feel suffocated, but it just made him feel safe. He was at the mercy of his lover and he tightened his pucker to feel a light slap against his thigh.


    "I love you too, my husband," Ying Yue sighed as he felt kisses peppered at his temple to his ear.


    Nails drag down his spine and he squirmed as much as one can with weight on top. Then, Wang Li moved and he clutched the sheet below him. His ass bounced with every smack of balls and pelvis. His hard penis was nestle between the bed and his stomach, rubbing with each thrust from his husband.


    "Ah! There! Please, please, husband¡­ ah!"


    Over and over he was brought to the edge until he fell releasing his cum against his stomach. The pounding continued and he groaned into the sheets, as he listened to the panting of his lover''s breath against his ear. His body was a current of electrical waves causing him tingles all over his body.


    "Ah Yue," Wang Li moaned and pulled out to the tip and thrusted back in a few times, causing him to jerk up.


    "Mm, Ah Li, come. I want to feel it," Ying Yue tighten his hole and heard the groan. A few more pushes and pull before he felt the semen shooting inside him.


    Sighing pleased, he heard the soft laugh from his lover as nose nuzzled him. Humming, Ying Yue lifted his head to capture his lover''s mouth. They kissed slowly and tiredly.


    "I was thinking how you can be shy and yet demand so much of my cum."


    Wang Li pulled out slowly and Ying Yue frowned with a whine. His husband laid beside him and he turned onto his side to face his lover. His king lifted his leg over his hip and pressed two fingers in his entrance. Ying Yue let out a moan and Wang Li kissed him with a chuckle.


    "I am obsessed, remember," Ying Yue mumbled tiredly. He felt so full of his lover cum inside him, four times and counting.


    "Hm, you are."


    "So are you."


    "Once I have your innocent, I will find another, my love."


    "Ah Li!"


    "Hm?"


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "What is it?"


    Ying Yue searched his lover''s face for a moment, finger lightly scratching his husband''s bare chest.


    "Fu Shen is innocent."


    "¡­"


    "I know you love him, Ah Li."


    "Oh."


    "Oh?"


    "Are you jealous of Fu Shen, my love?"


    "No."


    Wang Li Laughed and kissed him deeply as his finger pressed further in. He moaned and patted his lover''s chest to make him stop. The cum inside him was leaking out and Wang Li bit his lips.


    "I only love you this way, my wife," the fingered thrusted in and out hard. He could hear the squelching of the semen and oil against skin. He arched his back, pressing his chest against his lover as he panted.


    Oh, how he love his husband. He craved all his touches.


    ==


    Ying Yue was smiling nervously. Here he was needed to perform a few sword exercises, but his ass was burning and his entrance was sore. Every step he took was like a memory of Wang Li''s love. Normally, 3 times in one night his body would still be able to heal, but¡­


    His face heated up as he thought about Wang Li and him¡­ every night¡­ since he returned¡­ so much-


    "Get yourself together," Xu Ling frowned at him and he covered his bottom half of his face in embarrassment, "No wonder the students think it is fine behaving in such acts."


    His golden eyes widened as he looked over at the students, many seemingly idle.


    "They¡­ they know?! You know they¡­" Ying Yue turned away from those young eyes.


    "You are loud."


    "Forgive me, big brother," Ying Yue whispered covering his face, "I have embarrassed you and everyone."


    "I soundproofed your room with a charm, be sure to remember when you are not in your quarter, Ying Yue."


    Xu Ling walked away and the blonde groaned softly as he patted his hot cheeks. This was his fault. The students are still young and they are learning from them.


    ''But I did not mean for them to learn about¡­'' He shook his head and cleared his throat. He turned around and pushed passed the winces, pushed passed the soreness. He was the grandmaster, although he still stared at his brothers like the title was not meant for him. He had to set an example. A good example.


    Well, that was until Wang Li returned to him, just to suck the breath out of his body. They were not in his quarter, they were not in the alley, they were not in hiding and that¡­ that shouldn''t make him arouse but-


    "W¡­ wait! Husband, please. Ah¡­ Ah Li," he panted out as he was pressed against the tree, one of many that the children ran pass, like they were going to do very soon.


    "Hm?" Wang Li questioned suckling his pulse point.


    "I¡­ We, we should talk. Please, Ah Li."


    His husband pulled back and placed a soft kiss on his lips. He was still trying to catch his breath and his cock was straining to be freed, but he pushed those thoughts aside. He had to be a role model and not a¡­ not a¡­


    "I am not good or pure. I should not have this title when¡­ when all I can think about is you."


    He whispered clutching to his lover''s robe, as his eyes shut with his head lowered. Wang Li held him close and placed a warm palm at the back of his head, anchoring him to the ground.


    "Should I come less?"


    He shook his head and wrapped his arms around his husband, pulling him closer. The sound of laughter was close, but not close enough for them to need to part yet.


    "Ah Yue, look at me," and he followed, "You have so much goodness in your heart and I have corrupted it. You know this is true," fingers held his chin in place so he could not look away, "Just as you cleared mine. I think of you always as well. What would make you feel better, my love. I shall do it."


    "Don''t leave me."


    "Never... unless I must be with Ye Wu."


    "¡­"


    "It is contractual beloved. You were there."


    "He said he wanted company."


    "Yes."


    "I can¡­ I can give him more than that."


    Wang Li stared at him with confusion as brows furrowed together.


    "Pang Xi is alive."


    He felt the hold on his chin tightened.


    "What are you planning, Ah Yue?"


    "I will¡­ introduce them. I had already went to visit him when you were away. He lives alone."


    "Ah Yue¡­"


    "If they fall in love, then Ye Wu will have company and you will be with me and stay with me and I won''t have to wake up alone and-"


    The rest of his words were kissed out of him as fingers trailed up and across his cheeks. When they parted, he was blinking heavily at his husband who continued to pet his face. Wang Li let out a smile and shook his head gently.


    "You do not know, Ah Yue. Ye Wu already knows."


    "He knew¡­ about my master?"


    A kiss to his forehead and then Wang Li removed his touch all together. Ying Yue looked at him questioningly with a slight frown as he stepped toward his lover. The sound of footsteps entered the clearing.


    "Grandmaster Yue!" Some of the students said excitedly and he smiled at them.


    "Alright! Whoever is the first one to finish will get to hold the blades of any master they choose," Han Mo grinned and the gasps and sparkle in the students eyes made Ying Yue laugh.


    "What about Grandmaster Yue''s blade? Are we able to hold it if we win?" A young boy with dark hair and blue eyes questioned.


    "Of course!" Han Mo looked at him and he nodded, "On the count of 3. 1¡­ 3!"


    "Xu Lan!" The redhead called out as the pink haired master ran to join the fun before staring at the laughing brunette who followed. Letting out a sigh, he looked over to the Ghost King and his brother.


    "Are you still the Ghost King?"


    "Hm."


    "¡­"


    "I am unsure."


    Ying Yue grabbed his lover''s hand and played with the golden ring around the ring finger. Wang Li''s ring.


    "So you have no purpose," Xu Ling stated.


    "I have one."


    "Which is?" Ying Yue questioned.


    Wang Li lifted his face and the smile, so clear and bright, did things to his body.


    "You."


    Ah, even Wang Li''s words made him mushy.


    Truth was, everything about Wang Li made Ying Yue melt. This was bad, so bad, but he just wanted to live inside his lover.


    ''You mean you want him to live inside you,'' the shameless voice in his head snickered and he flushed bright as day. Wang Li''s smile turned into a smirk and Ying Yue had to stay still or his legs would give out.

 Chapter 163 - I Accept Your Hate

    "Xu Ling. When did Nuying joined your stay?"


    "Why does that matter?" The redhead crossed his arms.


    "There is a block in her memory. One that meant she did not reincarnate correctly."


    They stared at one another as the trees swayed and the receding laughter of people faded.


    "What do you mean? What is it you are not telling us?"


    ''He¡­ he was hiding things again?'' Ying Yue looked sadly at his lover and tugged his hand so silver eyes moved to his.


    "No more games, Ah Li. No more hiding. I cannot take it if¡­ please, my husband," he whispered and silver eyes softened.


    "It is no games, Ah Yue. I stated so when I saw her, but now I see it more."


    "What do you see?" Ying Yue searched his lover''s face.


    "Interference. When I sent Nuying to reincarnate, she was to go straight to the wheel. No memories. No past life. Fresh and clean, like your master."


    "Master?" Xu Ling uncrossed his arms, "What of him?"


    Wang Li looked at Ying Yue''s eyes and squeezed the hand in his for a moment, before pulling away.


    "Your master''s death will come soon."


    Ying Yue''s eyes widened as his brows shot up to his forehead. He grabbed his lover and gripped his hold. Shaking his head, he cannot believe his master would die again. He can''t! Ying Yue went to see him and he was fine! A simple lonely farmer who ate what he grew and planted what he wanted. Pang Xi was young still, not old enough to die.


    "Are you the reason?" Xu Ling accused and Wang Li did not reply.


    "Answer him."


    "¡­"


    "ANSWER HIM!" Ying Yue shouted as his nails dug into his lover''s arm, refusing to look at those moonlit eyes.


    "¡­ yes."


    That broke the bottle he hid so well behind his heart and mind. He punched, kicked, scratched, anything! He had tears streaming down his face, but all he cared about was the pain. Again and again and there was nothing that could change this cycle no matter how much he wished to. Wang Li love him, had passionate sex, stay beside him, made him feel loved and then rip his heart and stomped all over it.


    "I hate you! I hate you! I hate you!" He screamed as he felt his body being pulled away from the man in red. He squirmed and twisted trying to let out his pent-up rage, but his brother continued to hold him back.


    "Why?! Why can''t I make you happy? Why must you kill? Must you be my opposite, Wang Li? I hate you for this. I hate you for all of it! I cannot do this anymore!"


    Ying Yue cried and cried. He was scratching the arms around him trying to break free. He just hated his husband, hated everything, hated-


    A strange feeling overwhelmed him before a sense of peace. He blinked and blinked widely to see his lover standing far from him. Was Wang Li not standing beside him a moment ago? Red eyes bright like rubies was staring at him as his lover''s hand twisted around a dark energy, before it disappeared into the fist.


    Ying Yue''s golden eyes took in the scratches, the blood, the bruises on his husband and he reached out. In doing so, he saw blood slipping down his fingers to his elbow, already dirtying his sleeves.


    Mouth opened in shock, he stared at the hold around him to see nail marks and Ying Yue trembled.


    ''What¡­ what did I do?''


    "Ying Yue, are you better?"


    His brother asked and he nodded slowly. His brother released him cautiously and Ying Yue just stared at what he had done to his lover.


    "I¡­ I am sorry. Forgive me, Ah Ling. Forgive me, Ah Li," his voice shook as he spoke.


    Wang Li just stared at him as those red eyes returned to silver, but there was a sadness¡­ one he recognized so long ago.


    ''No, no! This is not happening again. I am not Wang Li''s curse any longer. The prophecy is completed! Please! Don''t do this again. Don''t¡­''


    "Xu Ling. You should return. There may be more hidden inside of your students."


    The redhead glanced at his brother and placed a hand on the blonde''s shoulder. Ying Yue flinched and looked at his brother before nodding. Reluctantly, Xu Ling left the couple to their issue as he relayed the information to Han Mo and his son.


    "I¡­ I don''t know what happened, Ah Li. I don''t remember anything, but I¡­ I know I hurt you and my brother¡­ I made you bleed," He was crying. Ying Yue wanted to hold his husband, but he was afraid he''d hurt him again. He had no control of what happened moments ago. He would never hurt Wang Li! Never!


    "You said you hated me and wished I was not here."


    "No! No, I want you here, Ah Li," Ying Yue shook his head as he stepped forward, "You are everything to me. I love you. I love you so much I could drown in you! Please, Ah Li, do not leave me! You promised! You promised," the blonde finished in a whisper as he hung his head with fisted hands.


    Wang Li closed his eyes and let out a deep exhale through his nose. His beautiful wife, his Ying Yue, the purest golden light in this world, had given in. The parasite demon had pulled something out of his sweet wife, one who loved all. Rage. Anger.


    For him.


    "Ah Yue," He spoke softly and the platinum blonde lifted his head to aim his watery tear-filled eyes at him, "I always make you cry."


    "Then make me feel better," his wife countered wiping his face, only to smear the blood on soft hands over soft cheeks, "Please. Whatever you want, Ah Li. I hurt you. I never want to hurt you."


    "I know," Wang Li whispered and stepped toward his trembling lover, "You are also angry with me."


    His wife looked away and he reached out to touch his lover''s face. The blonde leaned into his touch with sad eyes aimed at him, worry etched in every line of his wife''s face.


    "Pang Xi should have died due to malnourishment. He could not grow his crops well nor did he have any money. He had a family, but they perished many years prior. That was how Ye Wu found out about your master''s rebirth. His wife was the reason for his illness and when Ye Wu found out, he showed up dressed in female clothing.


    He appeared every day, just watching, speaking, and laughing at your master. But Ye Wu was not stupid. He knew the effect his being would cause, he will not do so again."


    "How is it your fault then?"


    Wang Li ran his thumb over his lover''s parted lips and felt the tip of a tongue licked his pad. His lip curled into a smirk and he pressed the thumb into waiting mouth. He felt the light suckle and he let out a soft laugh, pinching his lover''s waist.


    "Focus, my love."


    "I am."


    He pulled his hand away, but Ying Yue caught his hand and held onto it. His wife pulled out the red handkerchief and began wiping the blood off him. Silver eyes just watched silently as Ying Yue cleaned him up as best one can without water. He caught his wife''s hand and kissed where the ring was, the one that said he belonged to Ying Yue.


    "Ye Wu said there had been a ghost when he showed up to visit," Wang Li stated and golden eyes caught his silver ones, "It was sucking your master''s life force. Even vanquishing the ghost back to the Netherworld, it was already too late. He had lost much of his life."


    Ying Yue nodded and pressed his forehead against his lover''s chest.


    "Then Ye Wu saved him¡­ gave him more time. Is that what you are telling me?"


    "Yes."


    "And it is your fault because?"


    Wang Li cupped his face and made sure he was looking, paying attention, and Ying Yue clutched his husband''s wrists.


    "It would not be alive if I had not released them. This ghost had survived through centuries by attaching itself to a person and once they are finished, they go to another. Do you understand, Ah Yue? My sins will continue to hurt those around you and the innocent people you protect. It will continue to hurt you," Ying Yue felt the exhale from his lover blew over his face and he fluttered his lashes, "I accept your hate. I deserve it."


    Wang Li could feel how long the parasite sat with his lover, his dear wife. It sat with the blonde for years, perhaps, and now that he was here, it only made the demon clutch onto his wife stronger. His beautiful Ying Yue...


    "I don''t hate you-"


    "Ye Wu told me you''ve cried many nights, mumbled my name, whispered your hate for me, drank to sleep or until the sun rose."


    "He¡­ I¡­ I don''t hate you Ah Li. I just¡­ I just don''t like being alone or apart from you. I just want us to be happy. I just want you to be happy."


    Wang Li smiled softly and kissed his lips gently. It was slow, shy, like his husband was experimenting in the kiss. It confused him, ignited him, and brought back the very first time they kissed. When his eyes opened, silver eyes were taking him in, sliding slowly over each portion of his face. He smiled and his husband smiled back.


    They just stared at one another for a moment as the warm breeze flew by, ruffling their hair and sleeves.


    "You do make me happy Ah Yue."


    "Sometimes I do not believe so."


    "I feel the same."


    "We are hopeless."


    Wang Li chuckled and leaned in, "No. We are hopeful."

 Chapter 164 - Ride Me

    Once each student and masters were checked to only find one other student caught with the parasite. The demon did not have the chance to bring forth the rage from the teen, before it was sent away. Making the decision to ward the school, Ying Yue hummed and stated he will be visiting the sectors.


    "Are you certain that is a good idea?" Han Mo questioned, "Letting them know demons are running amok again would only cause them fear."


    "What do you suggest? We must prepare them in case."


    "Of course I agree with you, little brother. You should bring some of our students," Han Mo suggest and Ying Yue agreed.


    "I will bring Fu Shen, Li Chu, and Li Hien with me."


    "Why them?"


    His golden eyes slide over to his lover, his beautiful husband, surrounded by teens and young adults. They listened to him so completely that Ying Yue was sure if he spoke up, the children would not even hear him. They gravitated toward Wang Li, immersed in who he was, and he could not blame them.


    Wang Li was a beautiful force.


    "Can I come too, Uncle Yue? I want to know who they are."


    His nephew asked and stared at him openly. The pinkette glanced at his father who looked at him and he smiled with a nod.


    "Yes!" Xu Lan shouted happily and ran toward his raven haired uncle, "Uncle Li, Uncle Li! I will be joining you tomorrow!"


    Ying Yue laughed at the excitement of his nephew and saw Wang Li smiled, before his silver eyes glanced at his golden ones. For a second, all he saw was his lover with healing scratches and a smile, a smile that was slowly stretching. He watched those lips part to speak, but Ying Yue couldn''t hear anything, but suddenly the entire group of students were running toward him.


    "Ah Yue, you should run," Han Mo advised.


    Snow weaved through the crowd and was reaching him soon, so¡­ he ran.


    After running and avoiding any touch, he was on the roof watching his students lying on the floor huffing and panting out exhausted. Even his pet was lying on the floor with his tongue sticking out. He felt fingers run down his spine and paused at his lower back. He turned to his husband who was laughing to himself.


    "What did you tell them?"


    Wang Li''s lips stretched in an amused grin.


    "I told them if they can catch you, I will let them ride Snow."


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "Snow¡­ flies?"


    "Snow is a part of me, Ah Yue. Do you wish to ride him?"


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "What is wrong, Ah Yue?"


    "N¡­ nothing."


    Wang Li saw the red tips of his wife''s ear that ran down cheeks to hide underneath his lovers collar, but he knew the blonde''s chest would be flushed as well. He rolled over what he asked to cause his lover to react in this way, before a smirk appeared on his face. He slid the palm lower to grope his wife''s ass, as he leaned close to the cute reddened ear.


    "You would rather ride me, Ah Yue? I shall accept it more than willingly. I would welcome it," he heard the inhale of breath and saw the light bit on plump bottom lip, "Is that what you want, beloved?"


    "Yes," Ying Yue whispered and Wang Li squeeze his wife''s soft ass.


    Wang Li let his beautiful blonde do as he wished when night came. Making sure to activate the soundproof barrier, they can be as loud as they wish and Wang Li was glad. He loved the way Ying Yue sounds in the throe of pleasure.


    Like now.


    "Ah, ah, Ah Li¡­ mm, love you," the blonde bounced with hands dug into his shoulders.


    "Show me, my wife," Wang Li gripped the light skinned thigh.


    Ying Yue bounced harder and faster on his knees with his husband''s hard girth inside him. He tightened his entrance as his legs began to tremble. Wang Li groaned and thrusted up, causing his body to fall with gravity. He inhaled sharply when he felt his husband''s tip pounding into his prostate perfectly. His entire body ignited and his nipples hardened. His cock shot streams of his cum over his chest and his husband''s stomach.


    He forced his body to calm from the shivers as he continued to twerk his hips. Large hands pulled his upper body forward and he felt mouth on his chest. He gripped the back of Wang Li''s head and gasped when his husband sucked like he would his cock.


    "Ah! Husband! Ah, ah, puh¡­ please."


    He whined as he slammed his ass harder, moaning as he felt the balls slapping his cheeks. Hands grabbed his ass and spread his cheeks wider, making him whimper. Teeth pulled his hard nipple and nails scrapped his ass to his hip, making his mouth hang and eyes rolled back. When he came back to the present, he felt Wang Li groaning and slapping his ass as cum spilled inside him.


    He sighed and fell against Wang Li. He felt the vibration of the chuckle and the nuzzling in his hair. Fingers lightly press against his back, massaging his already relaxed skin.


    "I love you."


    Ying Yue smiled and bit his lip. A smack on his ass made him gasp and he laughed, curving his back to face his lover.


    "I hate you."


    "Ah Yue¡­"


    "I hate you for making me obsessed. I hate you for making me love you. I hate you," Ying Yue smiled, wiping the strands from his husband''s face, "But I love you so much more. I love the way you make me feel. I love the way you touch me. I love how much you care for others. I love the way you talk, the things you say. I love you. I love you more than I hate you, so much more."


    "I will never hate you, Ah Yue."


    "You¡­ aren''t making it easy for me here¡­"


    Wang Li chuckled and his breath ghosted over his face like phantom touches.


    "I love every part of you. There is nothing to hate."


    "But¡­ you said you hate me when¡­ we fought the first time¡­" Ying Yue reminded softly and he clutched the bedsheet between them.


    "I was not myself, my love."


    "¡­"


    "I hate¡­" Wang Li looked him over and grinned, "Your skin."


    "What?"


    "Your face. Your heart. Your smell. Your kindness. Your empathy. Your hair. The way your golden eyes shimmer. The way your pupil dilates when I touch you. I hate the way you scream for me, the way you love me. I hate you."


    "Husband¡­" Ying Yue bit his bottom lips.


    "All the hate I have for you, my beautiful wife, know my love is 100 times more."


    "You still know how to talk," the platinum blonde flushed, "And to you, my husband. Every breath you breathe, everything you see, I envy It all, my love. How I wish to be with you always, everywhere until we both no longer live."

 Chapter 165 - I Love Everything

    Wang Li kissed him openmouthed and deep. He could feel his lover''s interest growing hard inside him and he groaned. Hands at his hips moved him forward and back with a roll of his hips. He panted out a smile and licked his lips, staring at his husband.


    "Want me¡­ to continue," Ying Yue breathed out continuing his slow roll of his hips, dragging the shaft to fullness. He heard his lover groan and he rolled his hips once more. His walls tugged and sucked the shaft tightly, earning gasps from both men.


    "Yes," Wang Li flipped them over and smirked, "Tell me more, my beautiful wife."


    Ying Yue laughed and kissed his husband''s lips.


    "I love you so much I wou- Ah!"


    Wang Li thrusted hard, dragging his already weak walls from his recent orgasm. Tingles ran up and down his body like a ping pong machine, bouncing all around his nerves. He panted out, trying to tell his lover more about what made him love the strong man so much, but every tug against his walls made him gargle his words.


    "Go on," his husband laughed breathlessly knowing fully well what he was doing to him. He felt crazy and numb, light and heavy.


    "You¡­ ah, love¡­ your, ah, ah, ah. Your f¡­ ace¡­ ah!"


    Ying Yue could barely think as Wang Li picked up pace, laughing deeply against his ear. God, Wang Li''s voice made him so hot and hard. He clung on as the bed bounced and the sheets pulled away from their love making. Just when Ying Yue thought he could last longer than Wang Li this time, his husband breathed hot air against his ear. A groan, deep and gravelly, sounded right against his ear and his entire body shivered, whining for his lovely husband to please.


    "My baby, Yue-er," Wang Li said breathlessly and Ying Yue felt his eyes rolling back with a drawn out moan. His body arched and hips bucked, as his mind blanked out.


    That should not hit all the right buttons on his entire body, but it did. His entire body felt like it was floating and the only thing holding him down was the connection of Wang Li. Even the palms running over his chest and abdomen did not immediately bring him back. Not until the constant thrusts pushing more cum into him leaked out of his hole, dripping down his lover''s length.


    He whimpered with a trembling body, but Wang Li pushed all the way in him and turned them to the side. Kisses and arms held him tight, relaxing him with touches. Ying Yue hummed and smiled softly enjoying fingers running over his sweat slickened skin. He was so hot, burning even, but his skin purred at his lover''s every touch on his body.


    "I love your heart, your soul, everything my love. I love everything," he mumbled and he heard Wang Li whispered, laughing softly, before he drifted to sleep.


    "Thank you, my wife, but I love you more."


    ==


    Ye Wu watched the green haired farmer from afar. Dressed in a black dress and a red hat, he observed the man''s small frame. Once filled out with lean muscles and sharp eyes, the farmer was thin and eyes were full of tiredness. Golden eyes, once bright and fierce, were pale as they turned to him. A smile lifted on the farmer''s face as the man stood.


    Ye Wu walked over to join the green haired man.


    "Ye Wu," the farmer greeted, "Are you staying this time?"


    "Do you want me to?" He grinned and felt fingers touched his cheek, causing his heart to jump.


    "Yes."


    "I cannot stay," the demon said quietly and the green haired man sighed and pulled his fingers away.


    "Is there something you need of me? I do not have much."


    "Just your company, Ah Xi."


    ''Just a little longer before you leave me again.''


    Pang Xi smiled like he always did, motioning for him to join him at the table. Like always, Ye Wu joined him.


    ==


    "I cannot believe we are joining Grandmaster Yue!" Li Chu said excitedly double checking to make sure she had enough talismans and charms.


    "Do, do we have everything?" Li Hien questioned recounting the items.


    "Don''t worry sister, if you don''t have enough warding charms, I have enough for us!"


    The blue haired female grinned opening her other robe to show she was covered in them. The brunette female laughed and they looked over to their brother, standing with his back straight. The blue haired female rolled her purple eyes and shook her head.


    "Ah Shen, no need to look so serious," Li Chu grabbed his shoulder, "This would be fun! Fresh air and we get to tell big sister all about it."


    "Ah Chu, this is important work for Grandmaster Yue."


    "Eh? I know that."


    "Don''t get distracted."


    "What? I don''t get distracted!"


    Li Hien laughed at her sister and brother before her purple eyes turned to see the blonde master heading to them. Grandmaster Yue looked as he always had, but Li Hien could see how happy he was now that his husband returned to him.


    ''One day, I would like to have the love they do,'' she smiled and caught her siblings still arguing.


    "You just don''t get all nervous when Master Li joins us!"


    "I do not."


    "Mmhmm."


    "Li Chu!"


    "Fu Shen!"


    "Grandmaster Yue, good morning," Li Hien said loudly to break her siblings from their squabble. Both turned sharply, before bowing in greeting.


    "Ah, you all look well dressed."


    "We wish to be presentable, Grandmaster Yue. I hope that is alright?" The brunette female questioned glancing at her outfit.


    "Yes. Shall we go?" Ying Yue smiled and they nodded. Stepping onto his sword, he lifted and waited for his students to join him in the sky. When he saw his students just staring at him, he realized they haven''t gifted them swords yet.


    ''Something to note for later.''


    "My apologies," Ying Yue pulled his sword back, "Let us go visit the East Sector first."

 Chapter 166 - Always For You

    Each Sector did not mind and welcomed their help easily. Ying Yue remembered when speaking with the Sect Leaders were not easy nor did they all care for his work. Now, every sector worked with one another. Such efficiency brought a smile to his face.


    ''It took centuries for this to happen, but I am glad people are happy and safe.''


    As they said their goodbye to their last sector, the sun was inching closer to sleep. Ying Yue was worried as to why his lover had not arrived.


    ''Did something happened? Was Ye Wu doing something that Wang Li had to fix? Was Wang Li¡­ did he just not want to come?''


    Shaking the thoughts away, he listened to the students chattering away. Smiling, he turned to them and thanked them.


    "I know this is not the best part of what we do, but it is important to build community between all sectors."


    "We understand, Grandmaster Yue," Fu Shen nodded and shut his mouth quickly. Ying Yue furrowed his brows, but the twins gasped had him turning. Golden eyes widened to see his lover before them on the road. Wang Li''s hair was braid, pulled behind his neck as 3 cloud white butterflies hung to his strands. In his husband''s hand were food boxes and on his lips was a soft smile.


    "You all must be hungry," Wang Li said, "Come. Follow me."


    They followed to see a large mat over green grass under a large tree. Snow laid staring at them with his tail wagging, happily waiting.


    "Snow!" The twins rushed over and joined the big cat while Fu Shen looked over at the raven haired man.


    "Master Li, thank you for the meal."


    "Set it for me, Ah Shen," the white haired boy was handed the boxes and nodded. Before he was able to pull away, Wang Li smiled at him softly.


    "You look beautiful, Shen-er."


    Fu Shen''s cheeks warmed and he bowed, letting out a meek thank you before heading to the mat.


    "Ah Li," Ying Yue grabbed his lover''s arm.


    "You look the most beautiful," His husband kissed his lips and he flushed.


    "Not in front of the children," the blonde reprimand softly, but only earned a peck on his cheek.


    Wang Li held his hand and Ying Yue relaxed into the touch, joining the others at the mat.


    "Tell me, how is your sister?" Wang Li questioned as they ate.


    "Hm? Ah Yun? She works hard to care for us. Our parents died when Ah Hien and I were babies and so big sister had to take care of us. We met Ah Shen when he was¡­ uh¡­ five?" Li Chu questioned staring at her brother.


    "Seven."


    "Seven. Big sister said he was hungry and¡­ he never left."


    "Why must you retell it as such."


    "It is true."


    "I owe Li Yun my life. I am indebted to her."


    Wang Li hummed and Snow nuzzled each student who let out a smile.


    "I have a gift for you."


    "A gift?!" Li Chu cried happily.


    Wang Li smirked and the butterflies in his hair flapped. Each butterfly flew around, leaving glittery shimmers before landing on a student. Ying Yue saw their eyes widened before a grin spread across their faces, even Fu Shen.


    "Thank you, Master Li!" They bowed and Wang Li only waved it off, tightening his hold on Ying Yue''s hand.


    ==


    The lantern glowed, blanketing them in warmth as they laid on the white sheets. They laid on their sides and their hands did not touch, and legs did not lock. Only a sliver of space was between them, parting them like a stream among lands. Silver eyes observed golden ones, and golden eyes watched silver ones.


    Ying Yue just stared at Wang Li and his husband did the same.


    "Are you upset with me?"


    The blonde blinked.


    "Do you wish to just sleep?"


    Ying Yue looked away and his toe inched closer.


    "Ah Yue¡­"


    "I just¡­ I want to see if I can stop myself. I miss you and I love you, but I do not want us to just make love. I do not want that to be all we are."


    "Why stop something you enjoy? I love you and I love bringing you pleasure."


    Ying Yue bit his lips as he looked at Wang Li from under his lashes.


    "Do you¡­ does it feel like this is all we are?"


    Wang Li laughed and touched that sliver of space between them.


    "If all I want is to have sex, Ah Yue, I would find it elsewhere."


    "I¡­ I am not your first choice¡­"


    "Do you not understand how high you are for anyone to reach, my love? You are always my first choice, but I wouldn''t dare taint you," Wang Li''s voice was soft against his face and he fluttered his lashes, "But I reached for you, beloved, and you reached back. Now," lips moved closer to his, "Now I want more than your body, Ah Yue. I want everything. Your heart, your soul, your beauty, and your world."


    "Is it not wrong to want you so much?" Ying Yue whispered.


    "If it is wrong, then I shall live in wrongness for you."


    Ying Yue laughed and finally, finally kissed his lover. They touched like their fingers were memorizing each pore along their skin. They kissed as if tasting wine for the first time. They were slow in their lovemaking, slow in the drag of nails. Each thrust was an agonizing drag of his walls, wrapping around his lover''s penis snuggly. Breaths mingled and tongue licked one another until breath quickened. Hips bucked and hands tightened, they came quietly.


    The quietest they ever had done. It was strange, but there was an incredible intimacy of it all.


    "Ah Li," Ying Yue breathed softly as Wang Li hummed pressing their foreheads together.


    "With me."


    "What?"


    "You will live in wrongness with me, not for me."


    "No, my love," Wang Li nuzzled their nose, "For you. Always for you."

 Chapter 167 - Ghost King

    Weapons. There were so many that each students'' eyes could not stay at one. Their eyes roamed and their lips grinned because today they will receive their weapon.


    "It''s a good thing Jade Emperor was fine parting with so many weapons," Han Mo whispered.


    Zhang Xu Lan stared at his twin blades and back over at the rack of heavenly touched weapons. He wondered if his blades were also gifted by the Jade Emperor, or if this was just ordinary ones. His black eyes looked over at his father, who was currently explaining the different kinds of weapons. He remembered receiving them when he was only 15 and he remembered the weight it carried.


    ''But father never told me where he received them,'' the pink haired man thought.


    "Xu Lan," the voice of his raven-haired uncle spoke up near him and he stood straight.


    There was something about this uncle that made him fearful, excited, and preened from his attention.


    "Uncle Li."


    "What do you call your blades?"


    "Blades."


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    He watched the amusement in silver eyes as his uncle laughed, covering his lips for a moment.


    "Just like Ah Yue," Wang Li mumbled before holding his hand out for the blades, "May I?"


    The pink haired boy nodded and handed him one of his twin swords. Wang Li hummed as what he thought came to fruition. His eyes slid over to the redhead for a moment, before placing the weapon back into the pinkette''s hand.


    "I knew from the moment you were born, that you were different, Lan-er, special."


    "Uh, thanks," Xu Lan flushed a bit.


    "You know this, do you not?"


    He didn''t reply. Of course, he knew he was different. His father coddled him, made sure to steer him in the right path, the righteous one. But his father didn''t know the itch he had since he was seven. His father did not know of the thoughts plaguing his mind. No one did. He hid it well, but Uncle Li¡­


    "When you wish to, Lan-er, you may come to me," he felt fingers tucked his fallen strands, "I will understand."


    "You mean¡­"


    "I will not tell, nephew, but I can see it festering."


    Zhang Xu Lan dropped his head in shame, but his uncle lifted his chin and smiled like he understood, he knew.


    "Is something wrong, Lan-er?"


    Xu Lan turned to his father with a grin, "Nothing is wrong father. Do you think they are ready for blades?"


    "Your uncle thinks so," the redhead glanced over at the blonde walking over, "I think they are still inexperienced."


    "No one is of Xu Lan''s status. You should not compare," Wang Li stated and the pinkette grinned widely, while the redhead frowned deeply.


    "I know no one compares to my son, Ghost King."


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "Ghost¡­ Ghost King?" Xu Lan questioned blinking with widened eyes.


    Ying Yue, who was nearing them, only heard the last part of what was said. Quickly standing beside his husband, he looked around to make sure the students did not hear and let out a relieved sigh.


    Han Mo had immersed them in a tale and he was glad.


    "Lan-er¡­"


    "You¡­" the pinkette stumbled on his words and Xu Ling wanted to slap his own forehead for forgetting his mouth.


    "Son-"


    "The Great Death¡­ that was your fault? Uncle Li¡­ you¡­"


    "If you continue, I will kill your father."


    Zhang Xu Lan''s eyes widened and he stepped before his father with shaky arms, but his feet were firmly pressed on the ground. He held his blades before him, ready to fight if he had to.


    His uncle, Uncle Li, was a murderer, a killer, the one that brought the world to death.


    He felt the hands on his shoulders, heavy, grounding, but he was on edge. He had to stop his uncle. Why wasn''t Uncle Yue stepping away from his husband? Why wasn''t his father pulling out his blade? He didn''t understand. Wasn''t the Ghost King the enemy? Wasn''t Uncle Li the bad guy?


    "Lan-er, breathe."


    The platinum blonde said softly and he tried, but breathing was hard. Everything felt like it was closing in and he just¡­ he just had to leave! Taking a step on wobbly legs, he stumbled against his father and suddenly felt heat rushing through his forehead. He tried to move away, but he was held firmly. He could hear his students calling out to him with worry lacing their voice, yet all he could focus on was the palm on his forehead.


    When the palm moved, he moved with it before the searing heat was gone. He felt heavy, tired, and dizzy.


    "Master Zhang! Master Zhang!"


    His black eyes stared into eyes and he hummed his acknowledgment.


    "Are you sick?" They crowded him but his father told them to give him space. He heard light footsteps neared him and he watched the female crouched down.


    "Master Zhang, some tea to help."


    He didn''t take the teacup. He didn''t thank her. He didn''t tell his students he was fine. All he did was stare at his uncle''s silver eyes, too afraid death may come to those near him if he were to speak up. Wang Li watched the pinkette''s wide black eyes staring at him, as he finished pulling some of the boy''s darkness inside him. Exhaling slowly through his nose, he looked over to his wife to see worry etched along his beautiful face.


    "Lan-er," Wang Li spoke softly and the pinkette flinched, "I will tell you of my past tonight. Your father may join us if you would like."


    He turned and headed to the roof, putting distance between the grown boy. Ying Yue looked at his nephew, still wide eyed in fear of his husband, and kneeled at the child''s level.


    "Ah Lan. Everything will be alright. I promise."


    "But Uncle Yue¡­"


    Ying Yue shook his head and offered a smile, "Tonight we shall speak."


    Snow had meowed softly, pushing through the crowd of students to nuzzle against the pink haired man. Xu Lan watched the big cat rubbing against him with big blue eyes staring up into his black ones. He wrapped his arms around the snow leopard and stuffed his face against the thick fur.


    "It looks like Master Zhang isn''t feeling well," Han Mo spoke up and then lowered his voice at the students, "What do we plan to make him feel better?"

 Chapter 168 - Demon Blood

    "We could play him a song! That always makes me feel better."


    "Bake him the most delicious meal!"


    "Dancing."


    "Oh, he likes fighting! We should have duels before him."


    "Eh? Who said he likes fighting?"


    The voices of the children were a good distraction from the way his nephew was curled, stuffed against the big cat. Ying Yue pet Snow, who purred and nuzzled closer to the pinkette. He glanced over at Wang Li up on the roof with his silver eyes closed. What was his husband thinking right now? Was he upset at his nephew or his eldest brother?


    The night came too soon.


    Wang Li was drinking his ginger infused tea quietly and Ying Yue moved until he was pressed up against his lover''s side, staring at his door. Soon, the redhead and the pinkette will arrive and he worried it would not end well. He barely had his husband with him and he didn''t want to be apart from his lover once again.


    He felt a warm palm slide down the back of his head to lightly grip his nape. He turned to Wang Li and his husband leaned in to kiss his lips.


    "All will be fine, beloved," his king whispered against his skin.


    "How are you certain? I cannot help but worry, Ah Li. I do not wish to be apart again."


    Wang Li rubbed his ear as his silver eyes softened.


    "No amount of time-"


    "-can make me forget who I belong to... I know, my love."


    "I see you remembered."


    "It is all I hear for many centuries."


    They kissed again and again, before Wang Li kissed across his cheek to chuckle darkly against his ear.


    "Then I should give other words for you to remember."


    "W¡­ What?" Ying Yue had a hand on his husband''s thigh and another against the beating organ.


    "Remember this, my beloved wife," his husband''s free hand ran up and down his inner thigh, "The time I spent with you, touch you, and taste you will never satisfy me enough. I am not whole without you."


    Ying Yue flushed bright red and he covered his face. His husband really knew how to talk and though he loves it very much, it always made him feel weak and malleable. He heard his lover laughed and pulled his hands away from his face to place on his king''s.


    "I belong to you, Ah Yue. Always."


    "I as well," Ying Yue breathed out vulnerable and feeling naked.


    "You belong to the world."


    His golden eyes blinked at his lover before frowning. He was Wang Li''s wife, so that meant he belonged to his husband. Opening his mouth, he was about to speak when the knocking sounded at his door. He glanced at Wang Li and they stared at one another for a moment before he sighed.


    "Come in."


    Xu Lan and his father entered. He was cautious of his raven-haired uncle, and opted to sit beside his good, kind, blonde uncle. He held onto his uncle''s arm, not once removing his eyes from the Ghost King. Ying Yue felt the tightening and he laid a hand to pat his nephew''s head, but the pinkette did not even blink.


    "Lan-er. You have questions. Ask them," Wang Li drank his tea and Ying Yue felt fingers dig into his arm.


    "You are the Ghost King."


    "¡­ yes."


    "You caused the Great Death."


    "Yes."


    "You killed many innocent people."


    "Yes."


    "You¡­ you were stopped."


    "¡­ yes¡­"


    "You were dead."


    "I was."


    "Why are you here? How are you here? Why would you come here when we are supposed to stop you?!"


    Wang Li placed his cup down and turned to the pink haired boy.


    "I came to be with my wife. Ye Wu brought me back from the dead. If any of you were to stop me, I will welcome it, but know I will continue to return to him."


    Xu Lan slammed the table and shook his head in disbelief.


    "Those stories, the ones Uncle Mo would tell me, are they true? Any of it?"


    "Yes, but your uncle has a tendency to exaggerate," the redhead stated and his black eyes turned to him.


    "Father! Why are you not upset? Why are you not stopping him?"


    "From what? What has he done to be stopped?"


    "He killed people! He will do it again!"


    "Xu Lan," Xu Ling spoke quietly, "He paid his dues and your uncle had too. We mustn''t judge him of his past sins. It died with him," the redhead''s voice hardened, "But if any harm shall come to anyone, Ghost King, no matter how much love my brother has for you, I will do what is needed."


    "So will I!" Xu Lan moved to sit beside his father before the man in red. The Ghost King just stared at them blankly, before there was a slight nod of agreement.


    "I accept."


    "I do not."


    They turned to the blonde who was looking down, clutching his knees.


    "I will not let any harm come to Wang Li. I cannot bear to be apart from him again for so long. Brother, nephew, if I must, I will protect him with my life."


    Ying Yue stared with determination in his golden eyes at his family, to have them look back with widened eyes. He felt fingers tug his hair and he turned to his husband. Silver eyes searched his face, before he leaned into the kiss on his forehead.


    "But¡­ Uncle Yue-"


    "What happened, during the Great Death, was my fault, Lan-er. I am to blame," Ying Yue admitted and he heard the pink-haired man inhaled sharply.


    "What?! No. That can''t be true. Father?" Black eyes turned to look at the redhead who was staring with a deep frown.


    "The blame is mine, Ah Yue," Wang Li pulled away and interlocked his fingers with his wife''s, "Do not take what is my responsibility."


    Ying Yue opened his mouth and Wang Li shook his head.


    "Xu Lan. I will tell you the story and you may decide what you wish to do."


    The pinkette nodded, the redhead closed his eyes, and the blonde squeezed his hand.


    "I was chosen by the Heavens to become the Ghost King, to bring forth chaos, be the barrier between Netherworld and the Surface realm where humans live. When I found out my mark was moved, I did not understand the purpose of it. Ye Wu, the demon I befriended, explained to me more than what my purpose was. I made the promise to be a part of his family, to let the Netherworld and Surface world combine," he closed his silver eyes.


    "But there was a pull against my heart every so often and I thought about what it was. So when I felt it again, I pulled harder and your uncle arrived at my door."


    Ying Yue furrowed his brows. That wasn''t right. He understood Wang Li had told him he knew about him, forced him to love his king, but Ying Yue never needed to be forced. Loving Wang Li was as easy as breathing for him.


    "I knew from the moment I saw him, he was a chosen. Ying Yue was gifted to stop me and I was not willing to lose," Wang Li thumbed the ring around his wife''s finger, "What I did not realize, was how strong our connection was and although Ying Yue loves me, he would never be truly mine."


    "Ah Li¡­"


    "So I held on, gripped him to me as long as I could. Took him away from his family, took him away from his purpose, taint him in many ways and when I could no longer have him, when he slipped away from me," Wang Li''s hand gripped tight, "I completed my task. I killed everyone, even my own family, my wife, even your mother."


    Xu Lan''s entire body screamed like his heart. He punched the Ghost King and felt arms around him, but in his blindness, he threw whoever it was away from him. His fists continued to connect with skin. This¡­ His uncle was evil! Evil! He was the reason Nuying left! He was the reason his mother forgot about his father. He was he reason his mother forgot him!


    "That is enough!"


    His blonde uncle cried out gripping his wrist. He scowled and turned his glare to look at the Ghost King. The man in red was bloodied and breathing heavy. He pulled wrist away from the blonde and though he was still angry with the raven-haired man, he cannot kill him. He shouldn''t.


    ''But I want to. I want to kill.''


    "Done already?" Wang Li grinned with bloody teeth, "Pathetic."


    The pinkette screamed and stood, grabbing a willing Wang Li up. He threw the man in red against the wall, against the table, everywhere he could. He wanted blood, more blood. Calling for his blade, he went for the kill only to be stopped by another. Growling, he pushed harder but the blade was solid and it glowed so bright. He winced and squinted, still fighting for dominance, Xu Lan was knocked to the side losing his balance.


    "Zhang Xu Lan! Get a hold of yourself! Now!"


    The sound of his father''s disappointment, anger, and worry laced together through his mind. His mind jerked to memories of his father being upset with him, memories of hugs and smiles. His father¡­ his father-


    Xu Lan threw up. The bile of blood leeched out of his lips and wrecked his body with coughs. He could hear his father''s voice speaking to him, feel his father''s hand holding him steady, but he couldn''t stop. Just like before, he felt a sense of lightheadedness.


    Palms held his face and he blinked the tears away as the coughing receded.


    "Have you told him."


    "No."


    "Tell me what?" He mumbled as breathing became easier for him.


    "¡­"


    "Father?"


    "You have demon blood."

 Chapter 169 - I Am Like You

    "Wha¡­ no! No! How can I? You are of the Heavens! I have Heavens blood, not demon. You are my father! You are my father... aren''t you?"


    "He is."


    His black eyes stared into silver ones, bruised around the eyes and lips with blood painting his skin. He did that. He did that to his uncle. He¡­


    "I¡­ I''m sorry¡­"


    "There is no reason to lie."


    "I am not-"


    The hand on his face tightened and he saw a flash of red in those silver eyes. He stared with wide eyes at his uncle and felt something strange stirring inside him, bowing to the man in red.


    "Zhang Xu Lan. You have demon blood and Heavens blood. Neglecting your demon side will make you lust for blood more."


    "I hate blood."


    "But you crave it."


    "Stop!" Xu Lan shook his uncle away, "No. I am not. I cannot be."


    "Lan-er," Ying Yue sighed and held his nephew, "We still love you. We will do everything to help you, but please. Listen to Ah Li and¡­" his hands squeezed the pinkette''s arm, "Do not hurt him again."


    He felt his nephew nod and he pulled away wiping the tears from those dark eyes.


    "I still don''t understand."


    "I am like you, Lan-er. I told you before, I understand you. I can help you."


    Can he trust the Ghost King? Can he trust that his uncle would not manipulate him, use him to hurt his family?


    "Ghost King," Xu Ling stared at the raven-haired man, "Do not make the same mistake as you did your past life."


    The pink haired man stared at his father and nodded. If his father trusted the Ghost King, then he would too. Maybe.


    ==


    Wang Li groaned and Ying Yue rubbed slower. He watched the exhale and the sigh, as his husband''s silver eyes parted to look at him. His lover''s palm moved to his nape and scratched lightly.


    "Ah," Ying Yue moaned and kissed his husband.


    He moved his agile wet fingers up the naked skin and pressed, earning another groan from his king. Ying Yue let out a soft laugh and bit his lover''s lips playfully. He pushed again and Wang Li growled gripping his hip.


    "Are you teasing me, my love?"


    "I am putting medicine on your skin, my husband. It is not my fault if you enjoy it."


    He saw the twinkle, the mischievousness in his lover''s eyes before he was flipped over and kissed like he was the sweetest nectar. His lover''s hardness rubbed against his own and he shuddered with pleasure.


    "I will show you how much I enjoy it."


    Oh, did his lover show him.


    He could still feel the imprint of Wang Li''s handprint, like it seared through his healed skin. He could still feel his hole stretched wide to fit his husband''s cock, sucking every drip of cum his lover gave. He could still feel tongue inside him and lips against his tingling ones.


    "Grandmaster Yue?"


    He blinked away the memory and cleared his throat softly.


    "Yes?"


    "How do we know which weapon to choose?"


    Wiping his clothing down, Ying Yue smiled and headed to where the weapons racks were. His face reddened when he saw the knowing look on Han Mo''s face and the sigh on Xu Ling''s.


    Did he forget to activate the soundproof charm?


    "Wipe the drool off your face, Ying Yue. Such shamelessness."


    The blonde quickly did as the redhead asked staring at Xu Ling wide eyed. The redhead shook his head with a sigh and Han Mo laughed, while Xu Lan glanced confused.


    "Master Xu and Master Mo had spoken to you about the importance of receiving one of Heavens weapon. It will call to you once you are ready," Ying Yue explained as he mentally wiped away his embarrassment, "Sometimes, your weapon may not call to you, and that is okay."


    "But it is better if it did, right?" One of the students perked up and Ying Yue tilted his head in thought.


    "Well, mine was gifted to me. It took me awhile before I was able to wield it properly."


    "Really?" "What a relief." "No pressure."


    Ying Yue laughed and looked over at his brothers.


    "Master Mo and Master Xu''s weapons were called to them. Master Zhang and I were gifted ours."


    The children all spoke at once wanting to hear more stories and he shook his head. They get distracted so easily that they would end up not handing them their weapons again.


    "Who would like to get theirs first?"


    "Me!" Li Chu stood up quickly and rushed to the blonde.


    "Go on, Li Chu. Call forth your power to your fingertips and see," Ying Yue instructed and the female nodded.


    Once every student had a weapon, they were excited and playing with one another. Some were unable to call forth their weapon and it caused them sadness, but his nephew had a knack of pepping the children. Smiling, he looked over to his brothers who were speaking with those who were asking them questions. He felt a palm at the small of his back and he jumped slightly.


    "All the touching I do, your body still reacts this way," his lover whispered and wrapped arms around his waist, "How many times until your body gets used to my touch?"


    Ying Yue flushed and the tip of his ears reddened. Wang Li''s chest was warm against his back and he bit his lips.


    "We are outside, Ah Li¡­"


    "Yes. If I please you here, do you think you can quiet yourself enough, my love?"


    "Wang Li!" He reprimanded with his face red and he heard his lover laugh, before kissing his cheek.


    "Hm, they all have weapons. Is that a good idea, Ah Yue?"


    "Yes. They will be able to travel faster when trouble arises."


    "Hm," Wang Li wrapped his hand around his, "What else is planned today?"


    Ying Yue glanced over at the students and his family for a moment, before looking up at his husband. Silver eyes were watching him, waiting patiently for him to take charge of their day, their relationship. His cheeks warmed and covered his freckles as he thought about the change. Wang Li was usually the one who chose where to go, what to do, how to pleasure him-


    Swallowing hard, he licked his lips and cleared his throat.


    "We should go visit my master. I have been meaning to see him."


    "Now?"


    "Yes?"


    Wang Li just smiled and nodded. Ying Yue pulled his husband along to tell everyone and off they went riding on his sword. This was wonderful. His lover holding him, trusting him, loving him.


    "Ah Li?"


    He called out feeling fingers drag up and down his sides. They were hovering slowly over the sky as they headed to their destination. He let out a gasp when fingers rolled down his hips then back up, before rolling down further.


    "Ah¡­ Ah Li," he gasped and the sword rattled, causing him to stumble back against his husband.


    "Concentrate, beloved," Wang Li pressed close and Ying Yue closed his eyes.


    "I won''t be able to concentrate, Ah Li, please," he whined feeling teeth glide up the curve of his neck.


    He heard the sigh against his ear and fingers moved back to wrap around his waist. Ying Yue let out a sigh as he steadied himself and continued to toward his former master''s home.


    "Are you¡­ Are you upset?"


    "With you?"


    "Yes."


    "Never."


    Wang Li peppered kisses on his head, temples, cheeks, and ears. He laughed softly and placed his hand over his lovers, feeling their rings overlay.


    "I love you," he whispered and felt nose nuzzled against his temple.


    "I love you as well, Ah Yue."


    Warmth blossomed all over him and he sighed content.


    When they arrived, he held his lover''s hand and was surprised to not see the farmer outside. Knocking on the door, they heard footsteps before the door opened to reveal the green-haired man.


    "Hello Grandmaster Yue and¡­"


    "Wang Li."


    "Wang Li. A pleasure to meet you."


    "Likewise, Sir¡­"


    "Pang Xi."


    "It is nice to meet you Sir Xi."


    The man smiled and welcomed them in. Ying Yue watched his old master warm the tea as Wang Li and him went to sit down. Getting comfortable, he saw his husband''s silver eyes glanced over at a door. Ying Yue did the same before looking back at his lover.


    "I believe that is Pang Xi''s bedroom, Ah Li."


    "I know."


    "Huh?" Ying Yue blinked at him confused, as the farmer returned with the tea.


    "Is there something I can help you with?"


    "I''m just checking in, Sir Xi. You were not feeling well before," Ying Yue said concerned as his head tilted, "Hm, you look much better now."


    "Ah, thank you, Grandmaster Yue," the man smiled crinkling the corner of his eyes, "I do feel better."


    "I am glad," Ying Yue smiled and stared at his former master for a moment, "Sir Xi, you seem much happier now too."


    Pang Xi laughed quietly as he drank his tea. Ying Yue was happy his former master, now farmer, was smiling. The green-haired man deserved to be happy.


    The bedroom door opened to see a woman in a robe falling off thin shoulders. Long black hair cascaded down her back and eyes were red as rubies.


    "Ye Wu?" Ying Yue breathed out with his eyes wide.

 Chapter 170 - I Will Help You

    "Hm? Ah Yue, Ah Li? What brings you to Pang Xi''s home?" Ye Wu yawned and walked over to drape over the farmer''s back.


    "You know them?" Pang Xi questioned and the female kissed his temple before plopping beside him.


    "Mm," the demon rubbed his eyes, "Ah Yue is my acquaintance and Ah Li is my family."


    "Oh, this is the Wang Li you spoke of," Pang Xi pulled the robe back over the female''s shoulders.


    "Yes. Is he not handsome?"


    "Yes."


    Ye Wu laughed and drank the cup Pang Xi drank from. Ruby eyes looked over to him and Ying Yue prickled at the stare. Ye Wu was pretending to be a female¡­ why? He remembered Wang Li telling him the demon took the form of a female, but why did he not come in his male form? Was he afraid the green-haired farmer was into females only?


    ''I can''t blame him¡­ Pang Xi was married to a woman. Maybe he assumed my master was only interested in females this life?''


    Then his thoughts halted.


    Ye Wu was in Pang Xi''s bedroom. Ye Wu was wearing a male robe, most likely Pang Xi''s. Then¡­


    "Are you alright, Grandmaster Yue?"


    "W¡­ What?"


    "You are all red. Are you not feeling well?"


    "I¡­ I am fine," Ying Yue tried to cover his red face with a cough, but it only made him flush harder when his eyes saw amused silver ones.


    "Ah Wu spoke of you many times, Sir Xi. He is quite smitten. His talks are always with deep sighs."


    "Ah, has she?"


    "He tells me stories of your times."


    "I enjoy my time with her too."


    Pang Xi was confused why the silver eyed boy kept saying he and his instead of she and her when addressing Ye Wu. He glanced over at the female beside him to see red eyes narrowed dangerously at her brother. Said brother looked unaffected as he drank his tea with a smile.


    "Did you two have sex?"


    "¡­"


    "Ah Li!"


    "It was only a question, Wu-er," Wang Li grinned mischievously.


    "And the two of you?" Ye Wu questioned back.


    "Every day, however many times until we tire."


    "Ah Li!" This time it was Ying Yue who called out the Ghost King''s name.


    The blonde was red in the face from embarrassment and Wang Li cupped his face. He felt lips on his and Ying Yue closed his eyes. When they parted, he had a smile on his lips and Wang Li mimicked it.


    "Gross. I don''t want to know that," Ye Wu mumbled.


    "The two of you are lovers? Hm," the green-haired man hummed as if thinking of this new information.


    "Sir Xi, may we have more tea?" Wang Li asked and the owner of the house nodded.


    They watched Pang Xi moved into the kitchen, before Ye Wu whispered harshly.


    "What are you trying to do, Ah Li?!"


    "You should be as you are, Ah Wu."


    "He likes me this way."


    "But this is not you."


    "¡­"


    "You should tell him."


    "I will do as I please."


    "As you always had."


    "Exactly."


    "¡­"


    "What?!"


    "Be careful."


    "¡­"


    "You cannot keep giving him your life force, Ah Wu. It will corrupt him."


    "¡­"


    "You know this. I only wish for your happiness, Ah Wu."


    Ye Wu frowned and crossed his arms. Pang Xi returned and the demon stared at him to see the green haired man smile at him. Ye Wu sighed internally. When the visitors bid their farewells, Ye Wu and Pang Xi was staring out at the slow growing crops.


    "I must confess something, Pang Xi, before this becomes more than it should."


    Pale golden eyes turned to look into his red ones.


    "What is it, Ah Wu?"


    Fingers were touching his face softly and he fisted his hands.


    "I am not who you think I am."


    "¡­"


    "I am not a woman. I am a man."


    Fingers removed themselves from his face and Ye Wu gritted his teeth.


    "You¡­ Why?"


    "¡­"


    "Did you think this was a joke, that I was a joke? I told you much, Ye Wu and you never once told me of your deceit!"


    Pang Xi stepped back glaring at him.


    "Is there more? Anything else you wish to tell me?"


    "Yes."


    "What is it!"


    "I am a demon."


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "What?"


    "I am-"


    "Stop! I don''t want to hear anymore. I thought you were a gift from the Heavens," Pang Xi looked away from him and fisted his hands, "But you were not from Heavens. You are a curse."


    Ye Wu turned away and kept his head held high as he walked further away from a man he once knew, a man he still loved. When he returned, Wang Li was already in the Netherworld. Great. It gave Ye Wu plenty of screaming at someone, a fight, anything than this heartache he was feeling.


    "Do not worry brother," Wang Li said after they fought and he exhausted himself into tears, "Pang Xi will come around. Give him time."


    "He doesn''t have time!" He shouted at the silver eyed man.


    "Enough time."


    "You make it sound as if you know."


    Ye Wu saw the smirk across the man''s face and he quirked his brow.


    "I have my ways."


    "And what ways or those?"


    Wang Li only laughed and set up the chessboard on the cold floor. The cages did not rattle, souls do not cry, it was lonely without company.


    "If you win, I will tell you."


    "Challenge accepted."


    ==


    Fu Shen was holding the gifted butterfly in his hands and stared at the bright wings. He can still hear the message his king recorded as he closed his eyes.


    ''Fu Shen. When you are stronger, I will gift you another item, one you will enjoy. For now, remember this: You are Fu Shen. You belong to me. Your heart is golden and your eyes see plenty. Trust yourself, Ah Shen. Your intuition will save many lives.''


    ''Trust myself,'' Fu Shen smiled, ''As you wish, my king.''


    He looked up to the sound of footsteps, one he recognized as his master. Han Mo smiled at him and noticed the butterfly, faltering his steps. Golden eyes glanced up into pale purple ones and his master offered a smile.


    "I see you still have the butterfly."


    "I shall never lose it."


    "Ah¡­ you care much for Master Li, Ah Shen. Are you not¡­ why are you so trusting towards him? You have not known him for long," The brunette sat beside him.


    Fu Shen was sitting on the rock with his legs crisscrossed and his spear beside him. The sun was starting to set and he was going to need to prepare meals with Master Zhang and Master Xu. He felt a hand on his wrist and he looked over at Master Mo. The brunette''s eyes were lowered to stare at the hold.


    "Ah Shen, is he in your heart again?" Han Mo murmured with a sadness that Fu Shen hadn''t heard before.


    "It is true that I just met him, Master Mo, but," he paused and looked at his butterfly, "I trust him. He is my king."


    "And if he wasn''t. If he was just a stranger, a commoner. Would you still feel the same?"


    Fu Shen looked over to be caught in golden eyes. He wasn''t sure what his master wanted him to say. Was Master Mo upset that his king was kind to him? Was the brunette upset that he trusted the man in red?


    "I do not know."


    He heard the soft laugh and the fingers around his wrist was removed. Han Mo just stared at the white-haired boy and looked away.


    "You will always choose him, Ah Shen. I can accept that, but that does not mean I would not fight."


    "Fight?"


    Fu Shen tilted his head confused before his eyes slid to the man they both spoke of. The Ghost King had entered the grounds and was wiping dirt off him. Quickly pocketing his butterfly, Fu Shen stood up and was about to head to his king when he felt a hand on his arm.


    "Must you go greet him each time?"


    "Why do you not?"


    The fingers dropped away and the white haired boy frowned slightly at his master. A king was to be respected. The man in red, was strong, powerful, and kind. So, walking up to Master Li, he bowed in greeting.


    "Ah Shen," the warm tone of the raven-haired man said softly, "Have you been eating more? You look well."


    "Yes."


    "Good," Wang Li smiled and cupped the boy''s face, "Not a day go by that I do not regret it, but I am pleased you are with your sisters."


    Fu Shen does not understand what or why his king always said something as such. Each time, Master Li would always touch his face, glance at his neck, then say something strange like he did now.


    "Grandmaster Yue is at the training grounds, Master Li."


    "Mm."


    Silver eyes continued to watch him before a curl of thin lips formed.


    "You will be preparing the meals soon for everyone with Master Xu and Master Zhang."


    "Yes."


    "Go tell the masters you do not need assistance."


    "¡­ okay."


    "I will help you."

 Chapter 171 - I Will Feed You

    His eyes widened and he stared at his king.


    "There is no need, my king-"


    "Shen-er, let me help you."


    Fu Shen flushed lightly at the tip of his ears and he nodded. When he cooked with Master Xu and Master Zhang, they flowed easily in the kitchen. Yet with his king¡­


    "My king, they need to be smaller."


    "Okay."


    "And¡­ even."


    "They are even."


    Fu Shen stared at the different chunks of carrots and onions. Offering a small smile, he prepared the soup. Master Li may be strong and intimidating in battle, but he was neither in the kitchen. Fu Shen spoke evenly and clearly as his king tried to follow. Flour poof into the air when his king dumped it too high into the bowl. The oil popped and screamed when the dumplings were too wet. His king¡­ his king was out of his element.


    "My king, please rest if you need to."


    "Ah Shen," his king laughed, "Are you kicking me out?"


    "No, no. I would never do such a thing," Fu Shen said quickly and felt a light pinch on his cheek.


    "Good. Now, what else?"


    They plated the meals and garnished the ones for the masters. Nuying who was preparing tea and just entered stared in shock.


    "Master Li¡­ you are¡­ you are cooking with Fu Shen?"


    "Yes."


    The pink haired female blinked and blinked until the shock faded away. Shaking her head, she helped set the table. When the students and masters arrived, they were all tired and hungry from practicing flying on their weapons.


    "Fu Shen, are you not joining us?" Han Mo questioned and the white-haired boy shook his head.


    "I will join my sisters, if that is alright."


    Han Mo saw purple eyes looked to silver ones and left when the man gave a nod. Frowning, he sighed and ate staring at the man in red. Silver eyes turned to his and a smirk landed on thin lips.


    "Is there something you wish to speak to me about, Han Mo?"


    "I dislike you."


    "I know."


    "Good."


    Wang Li''s smirk turned into a grin that made the centuries old man look like a child getting his way.


    "Are you giving up?"


    "Never."


    "Good."


    Wang Li felt a head land on his arm and he looked over to see his wife exhausted.


    "Are you alright, my love?"


    "Tired."


    "I told you not to, but you did so anyways," Xu Ling stated spooning his soup.


    "They were so happy. I couldn''t say no."


    "That is your problem."


    "¡­"


    "I agree with father, Uncle Yue. Helping each one fly with your energy is too much," the pinkette stated stuffing a dumpling in his mouth.


    "But they were happy," Ying Yue whined with a sigh, "I will try to say no next time."


    That earned an unbelieving huff and a laugh from his brothers. Frowning, he stuck out his tongue at them and laughed quickly after.


    "Xu Lan, tomorrow, I will work with you on tuning your powers," Wang Li spoke up, recognizing his lover was not eating.


    "Uh¡­ alright."


    "We will retire. Come, Ah Yue. You need rest."


    "Mm fine."


    Ying Yue mumbled, but quickly felt himself jostled around and he blinked his golden eyes widely. When he realized his husband was carrying him bridal style, he flushed coloring his freckles.


    "Grab the meal, my love. I will feed you in bed."


    "Gross!" his nephew covered his ears and Nuying laughed in her sleeves. Ying Yue felt his face warmed with each second as the students'' eyes began to look over at the pinkette''s voice. Quickly grabbing the plate with the dumpling soup, he did not dare to look up from it.


    By the time they got to their room, Ying Yue was slowly placed down onto the bed. Wang Li pulled the plate away and placed it on his knees.


    "Want me to feed you, Ah Yue?"


    He smiled and nodded as his lover spoon fed him. Such domesticity made Ying Yue''s heart full of happiness and love. When he finished, Wang Li moved to place the plate and bowl at the table. He watched his husband removed his robe and then moved to remove his. Once that was done, Ying Yue slid his fingers up and down hard muscles that felt so good pressed against him.


    "Are you not too tired?"


    "Not anymore," Ying Yue whispered, "Not when you look this way. Not when you treat me so well."


    Wang Li chuckled and leaned forward. Spreading his legs, his husband fit perfecting in between him, pressing their hips together. Still with their bottoms on, they rubbed and rolled and moaned and groaned.


    "Ah, hus¡­ husband," Ying Yue panted out as his lover''s hips twerked, dragging along their hardness. He was leaking through his pants as his cock twitched with the friction. He tightened his thighs and crossed his ankles behind his king''s back. Each push forward led to his ass lifting above the bed, and it just made him more needy.


    "Ah Li! Mm, I need you, please," he begged and the thrusting moved faster and his back arched further.


    He tightened his hold on Wang Li and came with heated breathes against his ear and face and lips. The movement slowed and Ying Yue licked his husband''s lips, ensuing another kiss. Hands landed on his thighs and squeezed lightly. Wang Li pulled away and Ying Yue followed.


    "You are dirty, Ah Yue," Wang Li smiled kissing his lips.


    "We should have taken off our bottoms," Ying Yue mumbled before tasting his lover''s lips again. They kissed deeply for a moment before he gasped when his body bounced. Wang Li had stood up with him still wrapped around strong hips. He could feel his king''s hard cock pressed against the bottom of his balls and entrance.


    "Let me clean you, Yue-er."


    He flushed and felt hands moved down his sweaty back to dip into his bottoms to grab his ass.


    "Okay," he bit his bottom lip and looked down shyly.


    Ying Yue tucked his head against his lover''s hair and heard the laugh vibrated through his husband''s chest. He felt his tunic thrown over him before feeling the coolness of the night. Blinking confused, he pulled away to look at his lover.


    "Do not worry. The children are all asleep."


    "But¡­ where are we going?"


    "To the bath."


    "It would be cold, Ah Li."


    "Do not worry, my love," Wang Li''s voice dipped low and it rattled his brain useless, "I will keep you warm."


    Thankfully, his husband was right. No one was out when they arrived at the bath. He could feel his skin prickle from the cold and he held his lover tighter to soak the heat. Wang Li placed him down and he shivered from the cool night''s air. He felt his husband''s palm rolled down his sides to the elastic on his pants. Down Wang Li went on his knees and Ying Yue inhaled sharply, still not used to the beauty in this position.


    His penis twitched with interest and he swallowed hard.


    His husband smiled coyly as he helped him out of his pant. Ying Yue jumped when he felt tongue swipe up his growing hardness. Wang Li chuckled and moved up to kiss his lips. He watched his husband removed the last clothing before nakedness stared back at him. Ying Yue licked his lips as his eyes drank in his king, before staring at the hard cock, fully erect and thick.


    "Ready?" Wang Li asked moving into his space and he fluttered his lashes with a nod.


    He should have remembered how sneaky his husband was.


    He felt the cold-water splash against his back, before it soaked his entire body. He pulled up quickly, shivering and chattering. Aiming a frown at his lover, he soon felt heat pressed against him. Wang Li kissed him deeply as tongue deepened and moans eaten. He felt himself being pushed back and he didn''t know where Wang Li was taking him, but he would go anywhere his husband wanted without questioning.


    "I want you," Wang Li chewed his bottom lip gently, "May I?"


    "Always," Ying Yue breathed out rubbing his lover''s bulb earning a thrust, "My husband."


    He was moved to place his hands on the wall of the bath. This area was more private, smaller, but still connected to the main bath. He was thankful his lover knew his worry of public¡­ touching. Especially when Wang Li was thrusting his fingers inside him. He gasped and pushed back when his husband curled the thick fingers just right, hitting his bundle of nerves.


    "Ah, please, my love," Ying Yue begged with a whine and Wang Li kissed his cheek.


    "As you wish, beloved."


    The blonde was breathing hard, trying to calm the heat in his heart. The water was no longer cold and Wang Li was too hot, but he wanted-


    "Ah! Mmph¡­ Ah Li! Uhh ahhh."


    The push into him was slow as his ass was held apart for Wang Li to watch. His hole sucked and caressed the hard cock inside him. His husband bucked his hips and he gasped with his back arched. Then, Wang Li moved, rolled, and pounded into him. The sound of balls slapping his skin and the hands gripping his hips only brought a deep moan from his chest. He pushed back into his lover, enjoying the way the penis throbbed inside him.


    "Shh, someone might be up."


    ''Wait¡­ Children are up right now?!'' Ying Yue''s body tensed from the thought, but it earned a groaned from his husband.

 Chapter 172 - They Heard You

    Ying Yue blinked over to the sound, but he had to bit his lips when Wang Li thrusted right where his prostate was. Again and again his husband thrusted, ignoring the whispers and causing him to cover his mouth from moaning too loud.


    "What if we get caught? The masters will punish us."


    "Well, don''t be too loud then."


    Ying Yue clutched down on his lover tightly as he came with his husband still fucking him through it.


    "So good for me, my love," Wang Li whispered and his whimpers muffled by his covered mouth.


    Finally, he felt his lover cum inside him and he closed his eyes, rolling his hips. Palms ran up and down his stomach and chest bringing heat with it. He dropped his hand from his mouth and tilted his head for his lover''s lips to attach to it.


    "Are¡­ are you sure we should do this? I¡­ I''m scared."


    "Eh? It will be fine. Hisao and Hime said no one heard them and it felt good."


    "If you are certain¡­"


    Ying Yue was trying to understand what the children were talking about, but he lost his train of thought when Wang Li continued to move inside him. He could feel the spread of the cum inside as his husband thrusted and pushed up into him.


    "Ah," he moved one hand away from the wall to clutch his lover''s arm.


    Wang Li covered his mouth from moaning too loudly as the water splashed against their skin. His mouth was opened and saliva was dripping down his mouth as the pleasure and pain of overstimulation trembled across his body. It was quiet except for the water moving with their thrusts and the huffing against his ear.


    ''So good. I need¡­ I need¡ª''


    Wang Li''s hand gripped his hard cock and his eyes rolled back, as his husband came inside him once more. He turned to catch his lover''s lips. They kissed tiredly, yet passionately as fingers rubbed over his hardened nipples before nails dragged down his abdomen.


    "Ah! Stop! That¡­ That hurts!"


    "Just stay still and-"


    Ying Yue let out a surprised scream when Wang Li thrusted hard into him.


    "Did you hear that! We need to leave!"


    "Shut it. It might¡­ it might be nothing."


    It was quiet for a moment and the two children glanced at one another. A loud moan echoed in the bath and their eyes widened. Quickly grabbing their clothes and fixing it on them, they rushed out to leave whoever it was alone.


    Ying Yue was barely holding himself up against the wall as his lover continued to bring pleasure throughout his entire body. Fingers pinched and squeezed his nipples and bit playfully against his pulse point.


    "More," he panted, "More."


    Wang Li did not disappoint. He felt the thrust like a pulse, a vibration against his walls and prostate to knock against his heart. The fingers that covered his lips had parted for his moans and whimpers. His lips were wet from his drools and he unconsciously caught a thick finger in his mouth. He sucked and moaned as the finger moved in his mouth. A squeeze against his hip bruised his skin as his lover came inside him again.


    "Mm," he moaned rolling his hips, before he bucked up into the fingers that wrapped around his hardness. The pumping was quick, heavy, hard, leaving him so high with his eyes rolled back. When he came to, he was still sucking his husband''s fingers. When Wang Li pulled his fingers out, it was wet and slicked with saliva. Capturing his husband''s mouth again, he dug into the hot crevices and tasted everything of his wife.


    "Ah Li," Ying Yue panted out breathlessly, "I don''t think I can walk."


    Wang Li laughed and held his wife against him.


    "You don''t need to walk right now. I will carry you, my love."


    Ying Yue leaned back into him and sighed pleased. His husband was too perfect. As he relaxed into the hold his lover held him, he realized what had happened.


    "Ah Li¡­ were they¡­"


    "Yes."


    "¡­"


    "They are gone."


    "But¡­ they heard us."


    "No. They heard you, my love."


    Ying Yue flushed and groaned covering his face as if he could hide.


    His sneaky, sneaky husband. He should have known better. Maybe he did and he didn''t care.


    ==


    Li Chu was watching her sister floating on her blade, looking happy and ecstatic. She was happy for her twin, she really was but-


    "Sister! Come join me!" The brunette smiled down at her and she smiled back.


    Li Chu stared at her blade, a blade that did not call to her. She took a deep breath and stepped onto her blade. It trembled and lifted, before it fell and she growled upset. Li Hien''s excitement shimmered away and she saw the scowl on her sister''s face. The brunette quickly went to the floor to comfort her sister, but the Li Chu pushed her and stomped away.


    "Ah Chu!" She called out.


    "Don''t follow me!" Li Chu shouted and Li Hien watched her sister''s retreating back.


    They have done everything together. Grew up together, slept in the same room together, shared laughs, tears, everything. Watching Li Chu upset made her upset. They were twins, they felt the same like sharing a soul.


    ''Sister, do you hate me?''


    Ying Yue followed the blue haired female and understood her hindrance. When the female finally stopped stomping away, he saw Wang Li was saying something to her. As he neared, he heard Li Chu''s voice filled with anger and frustration.


    "Why can''t I get it! Ah Hien and Ah Shen got it so easily. Why is it me?!"


    "Ah Chu," Wang Li placed a hand on the female''s head, "You have always been the most vocal, the liveliest, the most distracted."


    "That isn''t helping, Master Li," Li Chu pouted with her arms crossed.


    Ying Yue smiled when silver eyes glanced over at him.


    "Hello Li Chu."


    "Grandmaster Yue," the blue haired female bowed, "Am I taking Master Li''s time from you?"


    "Wha¡­" he flushed and saw the sly smirk from his lover, "I, I came to see you. I wanted to make sure you are alright."


    "Oh, I''m fine."


    "You screamed at your sister, Li Chu."


    "So."


    "It is disrespectful to scream at your family, Li Chu. Even if you are upset, you-"


    "What? You are protecting her now? Everyone loves her and thinks she is perfect and she is! She does everything right and I don''t! Master Li even said it. I am too loud, can''t pay attention, and can''t stop moving. I am not like my perfect sister!"


    Li Chu looked away huffing as she scowled angrily. She felt a hand on her shoulder before she was pulled into red robe. Her eyes widened and she stilled against the body.


    "Ah Chu, what I said is not flaws of yours. Your sister is like a plum tree: sweet, beautiful, and calming."


    "Of course that was what she is," the blue haired female mumbled.


    "And you are like the waves: strong, beautiful, and captivating," Wang Li pulled Li Chu''s face away so she was looking at him, "You are not your sister. You are Li Chu, a rare pearl in the ocean."


    Li Chu felt her cheeks warmed as Master Li held her face.


    ''This is¡­ unnerving and too intimate. No wonder Ah Shen always turns red when Master Li is around.''


    "I can see how you won Grandmaster Yue''s heart," she mumbled and Master Li grinned, pinching her cheeks.


    "Is that so?" Silver eyes turned to look at golden ones.


    "I have told you multiple times, Ah Li. You know how to talk."


    Ying Yue laughed softly and then placed a gentle hand on the blue-haired female''s shoulder.


    "I can help you, Li Chu. I told you all that my blade was gifted to me and I struggled to fly on my blade. If you trust me, I will help you."


    "I do trust you Grandmaster Yue. If you have time now, can we start?"


    He nodded and Wang Li smiled at him in the kind of warmth that touched his soul.


    ==


    (In the mountains)


    Xu Lan was sitting cross legged before his Uncle Li. The raven-haired man was staring at him with such piercing eyes that it unnerved him. His father was sitting not far away and he quietly thanked him for the moral support. He didn''t fully trust his uncle, not anymore.


    "When you meditate, Xu Lan. What do you see?"


    "See? I see nothing."


    The man in red nodded and he watched fingers reached out slowly to place on his forehead. He flinched, but then forced himself to stay still.


    "Xu Ling. I will pull it forward. Be prepared."


    "Huh? Pull wha-?" The pinkette started, but then he felt the burning again, the itch scratching through his skin.


    "Do not fight it, Lan-er. Accept it."


    ''It hurts. It hurts. IT HURTS!'' Xu Lan screamed inside feeling the burn up his throat.

 Chapter 173 - Brain Hurts

    (Netherworld)


    Ye Wu, stubborn as ever, huffed and held his nose up and away. He felt the grip tightened and Ye Wu refused to answer. That bitch deserved all of this for belittling him, fighting him, making Pang Xi think it was his fault. He suddenly felt the air shifted and he fell against his back, causing him to gasp.


    "Owwww," Ye Wu cried as he turned over rubbing his back.


    "My apologies, brother. I pushed too hard."


    "Liar! You did it on purpose."


    He pouted and saw Wang Li offer an apologetic smile. He refused to accept it, but the silver eyed man helped him up and patted the dirt off his clothes.


    "If you tell me how to lift the curse, I will tell you how to win Pang Xi''s heart back."


    His ears perked and then he looked suspiciously at his king.


    "How do I know you are not lying, Ah Li?"


    "Have I ever lied to you before?"


    ''He had a point,'' Ye Wu thought with a frown, still eyeing his initiated brother.


    "I want her to suffer."


    "But you want Pang Xi more."


    Wang Li stated and Ye Wu groaned out with a pout. He does want Pang Xi. He had for so many centuries, far longer than Wang Li wanted his wife.


    "Nuying is already suffering from memory blocks, Ah Wu. She will never remember her lover or child as she did before."


    Ye Wu grinned at the news and his mind went to images of a depressed Nuying, a crying Nuying, a lonely Nuying.


    "Wait¡­ did you not say she is living at that pathetic school?" He questioned his king to see a nod, "That meant she is still with her lover and child. Wang Li! She is not suffering!"


    "I said she suffers not knowing, brother. I never said she is suffering living."


    "Who taught you to talk around circles like this," Ye Wu mumbled and heard the chuckled from the raven-haired man, "Don''t you dare say it was me."


    "Then I will not say it."


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "Fine. I will tell you," the demon crossed his arms, "He must pray 2 times to me every day for 69 moons for the curse to be lifted."


    "69? Why that number?"


    "That is how many moons I suffered at her hands. She forced me to do so at her feet, at her mercy for protection, for meals, for discharge."


    Wang Li frowned and pulled the demon into his arms. He could feel the anger shaking through Ye Wu''s body and he tried to soothe it away. No matter how many times they spoke of Nuying, the red eyed demon always reminded him of all the pain he had endured at her hands.


    When Wang Li met Nuying, he wanted her to suffer for what she had done to Ye Wu, but he could see the guilt wrapped around her like a blanket.


    "That had long passed, Ye Wu. If you wish for the last days of your life with Pang Xi, you mustn''t think this way."


    "I will think how I please."


    "Listen to me," Wang Li pulled the demon away to look him in the eyes, "Pang Xi may not be touched by the Heaven''s this life, but will still help those in need. Go to him as you are, as how I see you. If he refused, stay no matter if it rained or snow. He will not stand to see you suffer, Ye Wu, I know this is certain."


    Wang Li sighed and pulled away to look at the throne.


    "He does not have long left, Ah Wu. Time here is different than time on the surface."


    "I¡­ I cannot leave for that long. Who will stay here?"


    "I will."


    "For how long?"


    "As long as it took."


    Ye Wu stared at Wang Li like he was just jostling with him. The Ghost King was willing to leave his wife for however long he needed to take to be with Pang Xi. This did not seem right.


    "Ah Wu. You''ve sacrificed so much for me, I should return it, don''t you think?"


    He did not reply and the silver eyed man smiled at him.


    "Let me spend one more night with my wife and tell my nephew of the curse. Then I will stay as long as you need."


    "You sure Heaven''s Chosen will let you?"


    "Ah Yue is kind, Ah Wu. He will know you and Pang Xi do not have much time together. He will understand."


    "If that is your wish, my king."


    Ye Wu murmured still staring at him suspiciously, but Wang Li only smiled back with a nod.


    ==


    (Surface Realm)


    Rushing through the crowd, the demon jumped into the water. It swam deep into the lake and Ying Yue floated above it with his students. Lately, more demons were appearing and though many were manageable, some were not.


    Like this demon.


    It was elusive, cunning, and fast. It had landed blows on his students, on him, and on innocent people.


    Catching him was a priority and although the demon jumped into the lake, he was glad it was away from the villagers.


    "Be ready," he called out and his students nodded.


    Calling forth his spiritual energy, his body was enveloped in golden light. Shooting out a strong beam into the water, there was an illumination that casted shadows and one of them were moving.


    "There!" Li Chu called out and readied her arrow, "Keep steady sister."


    "Okay," Li Hien nodded as they stood upon her blade.


    The blue haired female watched the movement in the water, and she shot her arrow, laced with her energy. It cut cleaned through the water and caught the leg of the demon. A scream could be heard as the water rose in waves.


    "Create a barrier," Ying Yue called out as they formed a circle around the demon.


    As the golden threads formed creating a dome-like cage, the demon quickly launched up snatching Li Hien into the water. Her blade fell and Li Chu screamed from falling and from her sister being taken. Thankfully, another student caught the blue haired female and they were off trying to catch the demon and the brunette female.


    Ying Yue followed but knew his student would not be able to hold her breath for that long. She would die and it would be his fault! He rushed faster, harder, trying to catch up to the demon, but then the movement in the water stopped. The sound of another scream and he turned to see another of his student was dragged into the water, no matter how high they were.


    He quickly dropped down into the water and sent energy into his blade. Glowing with light, he sent it to attack the demons, but hesitated. What if he ended up hurting his students? Upset with himself, he tried looking around but saw nothing. His eyes were hurting and his heart was beating quickly. Getting out of the water and back on his blade, he took out his flash bead and tossed it into the air.


    He wasn''t sure if his brothers were even done on their side fighting off their own demon with their students, but he didn''t know what to do. All he knew was that Li Hien had been underwater for over 5 minutes and the student who was just taken had been underwater for 1 minute. The only thing he could do was part the lake.


    "Students, move away from the water. Get to the grounds!"


    They followed his instruction and Ying Yue was glad. Taking a deep breath, he sent as much of his spiritual energy as he could into the blade on his feet. Once it was done, he bent down to pull the blade from his feet and slash the lake as he fell, but there was a fast movement underwater. The demons hiding underneath were screaming and some were jumping out of the water but was caught by large sharp teeth.


    ''Another demon?''


    Ying Yue went to his students on the ground and stood before them. Losing two students was already hard, but anymore would just break him. The sound stilled and the water calmed. His golden eyes moved around him as he waited for anything to come. It did.


    A wet cat dragged something as it walked backwards out of the water. Ying Yue recognized the big cat and called out to it.


    "Snow?"


    The snow leopard continued to pull, and Ying Yue saw that it was body. Running to it, he helped his pet pull the student the rest of the way out of the water. The child coughed and glanced at him with big round eyes, before crying. Smiling in relief, he held the student and looked at Snow who shook his fur, wetting everyone around him.


    "Snow, go find Li Hien. She must still be in the water, but be careful of the demons."


    "No need, she is right here."


    Golden eyes looked up, along with all the eyes, to see Wang Li holding the brunette, who was staring wide eyed, in his arms. He looked at the female, one who showed incredible kindness to him since his birth. He smiled at her in his arms, shaking slightly, but fine nonetheless.


    "You are safe, Ah Hien," Wang Li whispered and the brunette smiled up at him, "I will protect you."


    ''Safe. Master Li...''


    "Thank you."

 Chapter 174 - Anymore Would Just Break Him

    (Netherworld)


    Ye Wu, stubborn as ever, huffed and held his nose up and away. He felt the grip tightened and Ye Wu refused to answer. That bitch deserved all of this for belittling him, fighting him, making Pang Xi think it was his fault. He suddenly felt the air shifted and he fell against his back, causing him to gasp.


    "Owwww," Ye Wu cried as he turned over rubbing his back.


    "My apologies, brother. I pushed too hard."


    "Liar! You did it on purpose."


    He pouted and saw Wang Li offer an apologetic smile. He refused to accept it, but the silver eyed man helped him up and patted the dirt off his clothes.


    "If you tell me how to lift the curse, I will tell you how to win Pang Xi''s heart back."


    His ears perked and then he looked suspiciously at his king.


    "How do I know you are not lying, Ah Li?"


    "Have I ever lied to you before?"


    ''He had a point,'' Ye Wu thought with a frown, still eyeing his initiated brother.


    "I want her to suffer."


    "But you want Pang Xi more."


    Wang Li stated and Ye Wu groaned out with a pout. He does want Pang Xi. He had for so many centuries, far longer than Wang Li wanted his wife.


    "Nuying is already suffering from memory blocks, Ah Wu. She will never remember her lover or child as she did before."


    Ye Wu grinned at the news and his mind went to images of a depressed Nuying, a crying Nuying, a lonely Nuying.


    "Wait¡­ did you not say she is living at that pathetic school?" He questioned his king to see a nod, "That meant she is still with her lover and child. Wang Li! She is not suffering!"


    "I said she suffers not knowing, brother. I never said she is suffering living."


    "Who taught you to talk around circles like this," Ye Wu mumbled and heard the chuckled from the raven-haired man, "Don''t you dare say it was me."


    "Then I will not say it."


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "Fine. I will tell you," the demon crossed his arms, "He must pray 2 times to me every day for 69 moons for the curse to be lifted."


    "69? Why that number?"


    "That is how many moons I suffered at her hands. She forced me to do so at her feet, at her mercy for protection, for meals, for discharge."


    Wang Li frowned and pulled the demon into his arms. He could feel the anger shaking through Ye Wu''s body and he tried to soothe it away. No matter how many times they spoke of Nuying, the red eyed demon always reminded him of all the pain he had endured at her hands.


    When Wang Li met Nuying, he wanted her to suffer for what she had done to Ye Wu, but he could see the guilt wrapped around her like a blanket.


    "That had long passed, Ye Wu. If you wish for the last days of your life with Pang Xi, you mustn''t think this way."


    "I will think how I please."


    "Listen to me," Wang Li pulled the demon away to look him in the eyes, "Pang Xi may not be touched by the Heaven''s this life, but will still help those in need. Go to him as you are, as how I see you. If he refused, stay no matter if it rained or snow. He will not stand to see you suffer, Ye Wu, I know this is certain."


    Wang Li sighed and pulled away to look at the throne.


    "He does not have long left, Ah Wu. Time here is different than time on the surface."


    "I¡­ I cannot leave for that long. Who will stay here?"


    "I will."


    "For how long?"


    "As long as it took."


    Ye Wu stared at Wang Li like he was just jostling with him. The Ghost King was willing to leave his wife for however long he needed to take to be with Pang Xi. This did not seem right.


    "Ah Wu. You''ve sacrificed so much for me, I should return it, don''t you think?"


    He did not reply and the silver eyed man smiled at him.


    "Let me spend one more night with my wife and tell my nephew of the curse. Then I will stay as long as you need."


    "You sure Heaven''s Chosen will let you?"


    "Ah Yue is kind, Ah Wu. He will know you and Pang Xi do not have much time together. He will understand."


    "If that is your wish, my king."


    Ye Wu murmured still staring at him suspiciously, but Wang Li only smiled back with a nod.


    ==


    (Surface Realm)


    Rushing through the crowd, the demon jumped into the water. It swam deep into the lake and Ying Yue floated above it with his students. Lately, more demons were appearing and though many were manageable, some were not.


    Like this demon.


    It was elusive, cunning, and fast. It had landed blows on his students, on him, and on innocent people.


    Catching him was a priority and although the demon jumped into the lake, he was glad it was away from the villagers.


    "Be ready," he called out and his students nodded.


    Calling forth his spiritual energy, his body was enveloped in golden light. Shooting out a strong beam into the water, there was an illumination that casted shadows and one of them were moving.


    "There!" Li Chu called out and readied her arrow, "Keep steady sister."


    "Okay," Li Hien nodded as they stood upon her blade.


    The blue haired female watched the movement in the water, and she shot her arrow, laced with her energy. It cut cleaned through the water and caught the leg of the demon. A scream could be heard as the water rose in waves.


    "Create a barrier," Ying Yue called out as they formed a circle around the demon.


    As the golden threads formed creating a dome-like cage, the demon quickly launched up snatching Li Hien into the water. Her blade fell and Li Chu screamed from falling and from her sister being taken. Thankfully, another student caught the blue haired female and they were off trying to catch the demon and the brunette female.


    Ying Yue followed but knew his student would not be able to hold her breath for that long. She would die and it would be his fault! He rushed faster, harder, trying to catch up to the demon, but then the movement in the water stopped. The sound of another scream and he turned to see another of his student was dragged into the water, no matter how high they were.


    He quickly dropped down into the water and sent energy into his blade. Glowing with light, he sent it to attack the demons, but hesitated. What if he ended up hurting his students? Upset with himself, he tried looking around but saw nothing. His eyes were hurting and his heart was beating quickly. Getting out of the water and back on his blade, he took out his flash bead and tossed it into the air.


    He wasn''t sure if his brothers were even done on their side fighting off their own demon with their students, but he didn''t know what to do. All he knew was that Li Hien had been underwater for over 5 minutes and the student who was just taken had been underwater for 1 minute. The only thing he could do was part the lake.


    "Students, move away from the water. Get to the grounds!"


    They followed his instruction and Ying Yue was glad. Taking a deep breath, he sent as much of his spiritual energy as he could into the blade on his feet. Once it was done, he bent down to pull the blade from his feet and slash the lake as he fell, but there was a fast movement underwater. The demons hiding underneath were screaming and some were jumping out of the water but was caught by large sharp teeth.


    ''Another demon?''


    Ying Yue went to his students on the ground and stood before them. Losing two students was already hard, but anymore would just break him. The sound stilled and the water calmed. His golden eyes moved around him as he waited for anything to come. It did.


    A wet cat dragged something as it walked backwards out of the water. Ying Yue recognized the big cat and called out to it.


    "Snow?"


    The snow leopard continued to pull, and Ying Yue saw that it was body. Running to it, he helped his pet pull the student the rest of the way out of the water. The child coughed and glanced at him with big round eyes, before crying. Smiling in relief, he held the student and looked at Snow who shook his fur, wetting everyone around him.


    "Snow, go find Li Hien. She must still be in the water, but be careful of the demons."


    "No need, she is right here."


    Golden eyes looked up, along with all the eyes, to see Wang Li holding the brunette, who was staring wide eyed, in his arms. He looked at the female, one who showed incredible kindness to him since his birth. He smiled at her in his arms, shaking slightly, but fine nonetheless.


    "You are safe, Ah Hien," Wang Li whispered and the brunette smiled up at him, "I will protect you."


    ''Safe. Master Li...''


    "Thank you."

 Chapter 175 - Give Time

    "Master Li!" The students were relieved and so was Ying Yue. No one died. Looking back into the lake, he turned his eyes to stared at Snow. His brows furrowed and he tilted his head as his mind continued to piece together his thoughts.


    Wang Li had joined them on the grounds by the lake and placed Li Hien onto her feet. She was embraced as well as the other student. On their way back, Ying Yue moved close to his lover and held onto Wang Li''s arm.


    "The demons¡­"


    "Are stopped."


    "Snow¡­"


    "Yes."


    "I see¡­"


    ''So Snow was¡­ Snow was the water dragon.''


    "My love," Wang Li placed a kiss on his head, "Snow is a part of me. I could not let you or your students get hurt."


    "I¡­ thank you."


    Wang Li pulled him in closer and he sighed content. When they arrived at the mountains, his brothers and the rest of the students were there. No one was harmed and he was thankful, but he could tell Wang Li was staring too hard at the pinkette boy.


    "What is it?"


    His husband did not answer but squeezed his hand as they calmed down from the high of battle. Ying Yue was still upset at himself. If Wang Li was not there, he would had lost 2 of his students and more innocent villagers. He would need to speak with the sectors about the up rise in demons. They will not be happy, but he hoped his husband would join him. He always felt calm around his lover in times like these.


    "We must speak, Ah Yue."


    Ying Yue nodded his head and followed Wang Li over to his family.


    "Snow will distract the children while we speak," his husband stated and Ying Yue felt worry claw at his heart.


    "What is the matter, husband?"


    "Xu Lan is cursed."


    "Wh¡­ What?!" The pinkette''s eyes widened into saucers.


    Xu Ling stood before his son and glared at the Ghost King. Far enough away to have eyes on the students with the big cat, they did not hear his son''s shout. The redhead stomped into the man in red''s space and scowled.


    "You cursed him! I knew it was a terrible idea for you to even lay hands on my son! Was tainting my brother not enough for you?"


    "Big brother!" Ying Yue raised his voice upset and flustered.


    The redhead seethed out and turned away sharply, making sure he was still standing between his son and the Ghost King. Han Mo was staring with furrowed brows and glanced back and forth at his nephew and his king.


    "How?" He questioned and Wang Li glanced over at the pink haired female, currently passing the water to the students.


    "Your mother did many wrongs before you were conceived, Xu Lan. Those wrongs she committed were against the Head Demon in the Netherworld."


    "Ye Wu¡­ he put a curse on Lan-er?" Ying Yue questioned and Wang Li nodded.


    "It was to punish Nuying for the many slights she took upon him. To release the curse, Xu Lan would need to pray to Ye Wu 69 moons, twice each day."


    "How do we know the demon is not lying?" Xu Ling gritted out, "How do we know he does not just want my son to be humiliated?"


    Wang Li did not reply back and the redhead growled and grabbed his son''s arm to leave the conversation, but the pinkette pulled back. His golden eyes looked back to his son and he deepened his frown.


    "You said my mother, Nuying, the one over there with her memories blocked¡­ You said she did things that the Head demon can never forgive?"


    Zhang Xu Lan spoke quietly, trying to understand it all. Whatever his mother did must have been bad, terrible, for a demon to react with a curse. What could his mother have done? What slights did she do to incur the wrath of Ye Wu?


    The blood ran cold in his body as he looked over to the man in red.


    "Was¡­" he swallowed, "Was it because¡­ Is he my father?"


    "What are you talking about? I am your father, Xu Lan!"


    "Then how did I get demon blood in me? It had to be because Ye Wu was angry with mother and casted her aside for the wrongs she committed to him. Being casted away, she met you and fell in love then I was birthed and¡­ You have Heaven''s touch father, but not demon. I¡­ I have to know," the pinkette turned to the Ghost King, "Please, Ghost King. I must know if it is true."


    Xu Lan trembled with the thought. If he was the demon''s son then¡­ would he have to leave and live in the Netherworld? He could not imagine how terrible it would feel to miss the redhead who raised him or the family he had made. He felt a hand land on his head before it moved to lift his chin.


    "Zhang Xu Lan. Your father is Zhang Xu Ling, a respected cultivator, chosen by the Heavens. Your mother is a beautiful woman who fought to survive the best way she knew how. She is a demon, but should not have less of your respect," Wang Li stated sternly, "You have the gift of both realms. No one in this world have the amount of powers you possess, not even I. If you wish to protect your father, your uncles, your friends and family, then listen well. Get rid of the curse. Accept your blood. Train your powers as one and protect them. Protect them all."


    "Did¡­ did you say I am stronger than you?" The pinkette murmured and Wang Li grinned.


    "I said you possessed more power than I."


    "But I can be."


    "¡­"


    The pinkette grinned and pulled away with a sparkle in his eyes.


    "I will pray to him and I will do as you say, Uncle Li. I will be strong enough to beat you, stop you if I must."


    Wang Li laughed and nodded, patting the Xu Lan''s head.


    "Very well, Lan-er."


    "Eh? Don''t call me that when I am trying to, trying to say I am better than you."


    "You are."


    "What?"


    "You are better."


    "¡­"


    Xu Lan opened and closed his mouth, before he just laughed. Wang Li saw the tension bleed off the boy''s body, even Xu Ling''s as well. Han Mo offered to help set up an altar for Ye Wu so they can start the prayers. Ying Yue was about to help, but Wang Li held onto his wrist. Turning, he was pressed into his husband''s strong chest.


    "We must speak alone, my love."


    "Is it about Lan-er?"


    Ying Yue glanced up and he saw sadness in those silver eyes, the same type of sadness that he remembered for so many centuries.


    "No."


    "I have not said anything."


    "No. Ah Li, you said you wouldn''t leave me."


    Wang Li''s eyes widened for a second, before he quickly grabbed Ying Yue and threw him over his shoulder. He heard the slight protest from his wife, but he continued to their rooms smiling and waving to the students who glanced over. It was still light out when they entered their room.


    Kicking the door close, he threw the blonde off his shoulder and onto the bed. Boxing his wife in between his legs and holding the wrists down on the bed, he could see the anger simmering behind golden eyes.


    "I need you to listen."


    "No."


    "Ah Yue."


    "No! You can''t- I told you, Wang Li. If you leave me again, my heart will not be able to take it! Don''t do this again, Ah Li. Whatever the reason is, it isn''t worth it! Do you want to leave me so much? Do you not care for me any longer? I can''t-"


    Wang Li kissed him and he tried to move his lips away, but his husband was insistent. If that was how Wang Li wanted to do things, then he will have to play his lover''s game. Ying Yue kissed back hard, banging their teeth against one another and biting his king''s tongue and lips. They kissed and kissed, while the rest of their body was still and tensed.


    "Ah Yue," Wang Li panted out and placed his forehead against his marked one, "It will not be long. Not as long as before I returned. I promise."


    Ying Yue turned away and cried upset tears, staring at the wall.


    "Do not be upset with me, my beloved. I would do anything to be beside you, Ah Yue."


    "No. You will do everything to hurt me."


    The hands on his wrist tightened before they were removed and Wang Li got off him. The bed lifted from the removal of weight and he continued to stare at the wall.


    "Do you wish for me to leave?"


    Wang Li questioned softly and Ying Yue jumped up and punched him on his arms then his chest, not hard, but enough to ease the pain he was feeling.


    "Of course, I don''t! I want you to never leave me, but you are. You already made up your mind!" Ying Yue covered his face and cried into it, "Why?"


    Wang Li sat beside his wife and moved the hands away from the beautiful face. He took out his handkerchief, white with a golden koi fish, and wiped at Ying Yue''s face. He offered a smiled and a kiss on both cheeks, before rubbing them gently.


    "Pang Xi will die soon. I wish to give time for Ye Wu to be with him again. Will you not agree?"

 Chapter 176 - I Will Mark You

    "So, this is for Ye Wu, the demon who cursed my nephew."


    "The curse could be worse, Ah Yue. You know this."


    "Yes, I know. This¡­ this is our last day together?"


    "For a while, yes."


    He understood why his husband would want Ye Wu and Pang Xi time together. He had watched Wang Li died and it was extremely painful. Letting out a deep sigh, he nodded.


    "Okay."


    He closed his eyes and kissed his husband slowly this time. Fingers tugged at his ribbon and it fell away, letting his platinum blonde hair cascade down his back. He did the same to his lover and the dark braids fell away. He let out a moan when Wang Li used his tongue just right, making his hips thrust up into air. They pulled away, connected by a string of saliva on wet lips.


    "I will miss you deeply," Wang Li whispered and licked his lips.


    "And I you."


    They spent the rest of the day and through the night touching, pleasing, loving one another. His husband pulled the keen from deep in his chest as the throbbing cock inside him brought him to ecstasy. Lips, oh he loved Wang Li''s lips on his own lips, his neck, his skin, everywhere. Never once removed from one another, they maneuvered effortlessly from different positions.


    Currently, Ying Yue was bouncing on his lover''s hard cock.


    Those incessant lips were on his, pulling a moan from his mouth. He shut his eyes when a particular thrust felt like he was being smack against his heart. His breathing stuttered and his legs were weak, but he continued to move up and down. He felt the pinch to his chest, groping as if to call forth his blood to swell there. Then a hand wrapped around his leaking penis and he inhaled sharply with a groan. His movements stuttered when the fist pumped harder.


    "Ah, ah, Li¡­ ugh! Li, Li!"


    His back arched as he threw his head back. His spent shot tiredly landing on Wang Li''s fisted hand and his already sticky stomach. Teeth grazed over his already love bitten skin to his pulse point and nibbled on it, before biting down harder. Ying Yue''s eyes rolled back as whatever cum he had left leaked out of him. His body shivered uncontrollably as his hips bucked repeatedly for a moment, before he felt he could breathe again.


    Panting loudly, he just sat against his husband''s strong thighs as he sucked every drop of his lover''s cum, adding to the load inside him. Ying Yue tried to catch his breath and when he felt he was able to move his numbed nerveless limps, he lifted and moved back down. His husband was gripping bruising hips and moved them to fall to their sides. His leg was held up as Wang Li thrusted into him, panting hot breath against his head.


    "Ah Yue, no matter how much pleasure I give you, how much of my cum is inside you, I can never get enough," Wang Li rolled his hips, "You are my everything."


    "You¡­ ah! You¡­ you know¡­ how to talk¡­ ah! Ah!"


    "It is the truth," Wang Li groaned as he moved the lifted leg over so he was bracketed by his wife''s thighs, "I will mark you so you can remember, my wife. You belong to me."


    Ying Yue dragged his fingers hard against his lover''s chest, leaving raised red skin over already bite marked skin.


    "As do you, my husband."


    Wang Li pressed deep into him and kissed his lips in the dirty, sensual way that made Ying Yue''s toes curl. Each thrust felt even deeper, carving a hole inside him that fit his lover''s cock snuggly. His hole felt raw, even with all the cum slipping through with each buck of his husband''s penis. Ying Yue watched Wang Li groaning above him as sweat dripped from his beautifully bruised bitten skin. He watched as his husband''s shoulders tensed and the blonde tightened his hole.


    "My wife," Wang Li stuttered out breathlessly and pounded into him quicker, faster, deeper.


    "Mmph! Ah! Hu¡­ hu¡­"


    Ying Yue could not finish his sentence from the feeling of pain and pleasure short circuited his mind.


    "My wife, my baby."


    The blonde cried in pleasure as tears slipped out of his eyes. His hips bucked up and rolled while Wang Li continued his rhythm inside him. Drools continued to slip out of his lips and he felt as if his husband was trying to knock against his heart with his hard cock. Wang Li came and his hazy eyes caught the way Wang Li curled with his wet mouth opened. He watched as silver eyes shut in the throes of pleasure as his head rolled and hips pushed even deeper.


    "My love," Ying Yue mumbled out and wanted to reach out to wipe the sweat from his husband, but his arms felt too heavy for him to lift.


    "You make me crazy," Wang Li''s pleasured heavy deep voice whispered and kissed his lips sloppily, tiredly.


    "That makes the both of us."


    "Hm? You make yourself crazy too?" His husband teased as he turned them to the side, face to face, still connected.


    "Sometimes," Ying Yue breathed out a laugh and gasped when he felt a smack to his already used ass, littered with welts and bruises.


    Placing their foreheads together, Ying Yue leaned in with a sigh. He placed his hand over his lover''s chest and felt comfort in hearing the pumping of a strong heart. He felt fingers run through his sweat soaked hair from his face. His heavy golden eyes stared at the beautiful face before him and captured exactly how his husband looked at this moment.


    "I will come as soon as I can, Ah Yue, my beloved wife. I will not let you wait too long."


    "I know."


    They kissed again, both remembering every breath, every movement of tongues, lips and fingertips.


    They will be apart again, but this time, it was their choice.


    Wang Li will return. Ying Yue will be waiting.


    ''Always.''


    When Ying Yue woke, he was sore and bruised, but he did not use any medicine to heal them. He just basked in the pain, the memories of pleasure, of love. Wang Li had returned, and he was alone once again, but this time he knew his husband would come back to him. Pushing himself to sit up, he looked over at the side table to see a book that was not there before. He opened it and found himself smiling with laughter.


    "Ah Li¡­ thank you my love."


    Getting out of bed and dressing, he hid the love marks on his skin and left his room with the book in hand.


    ==


    Pang Xi was just a farmer, one who had lost his family, could barely save what crops he had left, and was burdened by a man who was a demon. Every day he thought of her¡­ him since they departed. The green haired man thought maybe he had been cursed by this demon. Why else would he continuously see red eyes in his dreams, red eyes following his every move, red eyes beside him at night. He ignored it, disbelieved it, and shook all of it away.


    When he thought he could finally lie to himself and believe it, the demon returned with that same ruby eyes that haunted him. The demon would just stand a few feet from his front door and begged for his forgiveness, a mere mortal. Why? Was the demon indebted to him somehow? Could the demon not just kill him, force him to its will?


    He ignored Ye Wu, the red eyed demon, but the raven-haired man was still there, night and day just waiting for his forgiveness. It rained, it snowed, it was sweltering hot, but the demon remained unbothered.


    Pang Xi thought back to when Ye Wu came to him as a female, cunning and mysterious. He thought back to when they were in bed together and how those fingers ran over his face with featherlight touch.


    ["Why must you be mysterious, Ah Wu?" He had questioned the demon, human at the time when he asked.


    "Some things are meant to be a mystery, Ah Xi."


    "Why must you hide from me?"


    Red eyes looked at him and a small smile formed on pretty lips.


    "You''d hate me otherwise."


    "I don''t think that is possible, Ah Wu. You brought me happiness again. I thank you."


    Then he made the first move and kissed the white skinned female and-]


    The sneezes from outside broke him out of his thoughts. It had been raining for three days straight and the demon was outside in a thin robe. Pang Xi had not seen the demon eat or drink and he could feel the slap of guilt against his heart. He was no better than a demon.


    He watched Ye Wu swayed before the demon fell over. Pang Xi waited and waited, but the body did not move as rain splashed against the raven-haired man''s body. Quickly leaving his home, his safety, he went to gather the demon in his arms and brought him inside. He stripped the light body and wiped Ye Wu down so he was not so cold. Grabbing one of his robes, one that Ye Wu preferred to wear around his home, he dressed the demon before tucking him into his bed.


    ''Ye Wu, you stubborn demon. Don''t die.''

 Chapter 177 - I Wish All Of You

    (Pang Xi''s home)


    Ye Wu as a man did not look much different from when he pretended to be a female. The only change Pang Xi could see was the flat chest instead of the mounds and a penis instead of a vagina.


    The demon still had long dark lashes, high cheekbones, kissable lips, and smooth white skin. He placed his warm palm against the cold cheek to hear a moan from the demon. Ye Wu leaned toward the warmth and Pang Xi quickly pulled away.


    He went to the kitchen to heat water for tea and prepared soup. He ignored the way his heart jumped with the thought of Ye Wu in his home again. He ignored the anxiety leaking into the air, covering the space between him and the demon. He ignored how much he missed this, missed Ye Wu.


    ''But he is a demon,'' he reminded himself, ''When you die, he will eat your soul and you will not be reborn.''


    ''Is that so bad? Ye Wu loves me, this much is certain and I¡­ I care for him deeply.''


    Wiping his face, he sighed and scooped the soup into a bowl and placed it onto a tray with the prepared tea. Bringing it to the room, he placed it on the side table and stared at the sleeping figure on his bed. Ye Wu looked peaceful and Pang Xi''s heart swelled with the notion the demon felt relaxed with him, but another part feared that it was due to his weakness. Ye Wu could easily overpower him if the demon wished it.


    He touched the demon''s face. He slid his fingers along the high cheekbones and pushed away wet raven locks. He pulled up the blanket and tucked Ye Wu in before he looked back at the face of the demon.


    Red eyes were observing him.


    "Ah Xi," Ye Wu''s rough voice said softly, "Am I dreaming?"


    Pang Xi gritted his teeth and swallowed the way his heart wanted to jump out of his throat.


    "You dream of me?"


    "Every day," the demon sighed and pushed himself up groaning, "Ugh, my head hurts."


    "It should. You didn''t eat or sleep for awhile out in the rain."


    "I was waiting for you to invite me in," Ye Wu pouted and rubbed his face before sliding his hair back, "Are you still upset with me?"


    "Yes."


    "¡­"


    Ye Wu looked away and sighed. He listened to Wang Li and had been waiting for Pang Xi''s forgiveness for many moons. To be honest, he didn''t think the green haired man would hold the grudge so long. He thought he would only be begging and waiting for 3 nights but it was over 30 moons. The only reason he had lasted was the prayers he felt from Nuying''s child.


    Though it made him giddy and sometimes grinned when he heard the prayers, he had to remember that the child was part of Wang Li''s family, which meant part of his own as well.


    The rain had been harsh for quite some time and the cold air never bothered him much, but the lack of food, water, even blood weakened him. If any demon attacked him, he might not be able to fend for himself. No, that''s a lie. Ye Wu could always fend for himself.


    "Here," Pang Xi placed the spoon against his lips and Ye Wu gushed with the thought the green haired farmer wanted to feed him.


    Opening his mouth, he moaned content as his stomach cheered. This continued until there was nothing left and Ye Wu was handed a teacup. Drinking it, the demon licked his lips with a pleased hum.


    "Thank you, Pang Xi. Are you going to kick me out now?"


    Pale golden eyes watched him for a moment in the lantern lit room. They searched his face for an unknown question and Ye Wu wondered what the question was, what was the man trying to find.


    "Why me?"


    "Huh?"


    "Ye Wu, why me?" Pang Xi gritted out.


    "Why not you?"


    "I am just a man. Am I part of your game? Have you cursed me?"


    Ye Wu laughed and his red eyes crinkled. Reaching for the man''s hands, Pang Xi did not flinch or pulled away and that made him preen.


    "You are just a man, one I have longed for, for many centuries. There are no longer games that I play in such a way as this, Ah Xi. If I had known you returned, I would have come much earlier to see you."


    "You have been waiting for me? Were we¡­ lovers before?"


    "No," Ye Wu laughed quietly, "You were too clean for me to taint, Ah Xi, but¡­ we kissed nonetheless."


    ''So, we had a past. This is why Ye Wu had not harmed me,'' Pang Xi thought and watched the way those red eyes just stared at their hands.


    "Did you curse me?"


    "No. Another had done so, but they are gone now. I made sure of it."


    The grip on his hands were almost bruising, and he leaned forward to knock his head against the demon''s. Red eyes looked up to his golden ones.


    "What do you want, Ah Wu?"


    "Your forgiveness."


    "Why did you come to me in a female form when you take the form of a man?"


    "I do not know if you were interested in men, Ah Xi."


    "I see."


    "Are you¡­ interested in men?"


    "¡­"


    "I see."


    "I forgive you," Pang Xi sighed, "Is that all you wish of me?"


    "I wish all of you, Ah Xi," Ye Wu laughed with a grin, "Let me take care of you for a little longer."


    "Before I die."


    Ye Wu''s eyes widened and Pang Xi let out an amused huff. Hands moved to cup his face and he blinked big red eyes at the green haired man.


    "I have known for quite some time, Ah Wu. I thought you were the one to finally take my soul into the afterlife," Pang Xi sighed, "Are you going to eat my soul if I accept your wish?"


    The demon laughed and kissed him. It felt like life was brought back into his dampening soul, lighting it up with a glow. He was pulled down onto the bed and he smiled as Ye Wu pulled back straddling him.


    "I will do what you wish for your soul, my dearest Ah Xi. Besides, I do not need to eat your soul to know how delicious you taste," Ye Wu licked his lips and rolled his hips forward.


    Pang Xi gasped and gripped the slender waist.


    "Go on then, take care of me, Ah Wu," he panted out softly and the demon leaned down to capture his lips once more.


    "As you wish, master."


    Groaning, he kissed back hard and thrusted up to earn a moan from the red eyed demon. Ye Wu knew what to say to make him crazy, but he knew what to do to make the demon beg.


    ==


    (Cultivation School)


    Fu Shen did not understand his master. Master Mo was currently holding his hands in the comfort of his room, holding them as if he would run away. titling his head, he frowned lightly as he thought about what reason his master would look so sad. Did the brunette miss his king like he did?


    "Ah Shen," Han Mo sighed, "Is it possible that there is room in your heart for another?"


    "I don''t understand."


    "Ah," the master rubbed his face as he collected his thoughts. His dear Fu Shen was oblivious as he was aware. Rubbing the hands in his, he leaned forward and rested his head on his crush''s shoulder. This was the closest he had ever gotten with Fu Shen and he worried if he confessed, would it pushes the white haired boy away? He had thought of this for sometime as he laid awake.


    Each time that darn Ghost King came, he could tell Fu Shen was more alert, more willing to bend to Wang Li''s every will. Sighing, he wondered if he would even truly had Fu Shen''s heart.


    "Are you giving up?" He could hear Wang Li''s voice asked with that stupid knowing smirk.


    Taking a deep breath, he pulled back and looked into furrowed brows and pale purple eyes.


    "Are you sick?" Fu Shen questioned and he let out a laugh.


    "Yes," he nodded.


    "Let me make you soup and bring you tea," his white haired apprentice was quick to get up, but he held him to sit back down on his bed.


    "Ah Shen," Han Mo touched the boy''s burnt marks, "Who do you love?"


    Purple eyes widened and a light flush covered the boy''s cheeks. Han Mo smiled defeated because he already knew who the boy loved and it was not him. Taking the defeat like a champ, he puffed his chest and grinned, patting the boy''s shoulder.


    "That is good, Ah Shen. I hope whoever it is knows your love, for surely you deserve everything in this world."


    Purple eyes searched his face for a moment before Fu Shen turned away.


    ''If I cannot have your heart, then I will take as much time as he would give me,'' Han Mo told himself, comforting himself with those words.


    "Master Mo," Fu Shen spoke softly, "I do not think it is right for me to have these feelings."


    "Eh? Why not?" Han Mo frowned and cupped the boy''s arm, "Ah Shen, it is alright to love whoever you wish. Why should there be a problem?"


    "It is wrong," the white haired boy whispered, "He is... older than I, but he cares for me even when he does not need to."


    Ah, his heart felt like it was stabbed.


    "You should tell him then, it would be good for you and I am certain whoever it is feels the same."


    Fu Shen stared at him and that blush seemed to settle on pale cheeks.


    "Do you, Master Mo, love anyone?"


    "Yes," Han Mo said with no hesitation, "I too am afraid of the outcome of our relationship."


    "I know who you love, Master Mo," Fu Shen looked down thinking, "I believe he feels the same as well. You two stare at each other as if lovers."


    Han Mo blinked and blinked with furrowed brows. Fu Shen... was not talking about himself... was he? Shaking his head, he titled his head to stare into purple eyes.


    "Who do you think I love?"


    "The Ghost King."


    "..."


    "..."


    "What?! You- You- What?!"


    Han Mo stood up with eyes wide and mouth dropped. What the heck?! Why would Fu Shen think he was in love with Wang Li?! Wang Li was Ying Yue''s! Not his!


    "You two, you two stare at each other for so long some times. There is fire in them," Fu Shen also stood trying to explain himself, "I have seen you two speaking alone away from everyone. I apologize if I... If I assumed it. Please forgive me Master Mo."


    Fu Shen bowed and Han Mo smacked his forehead laughing. This was ridiculously hilarious to him. Wait until he told his brothers, they would die with laughter. He caught his breath and smiled adoringly at his crush.


    "Ah Shen, I do not love the Ghost King. I don''t really like him, but I know what he means to my brother and to you. I understand confessing to him would be scary, but my brother cares for you too. Do not be afraid," Han Mo smiled at the white haired boy to see widened purple eyes, "Yes. I know."


    "..."


    "..."


    "Master Mo... You are wrong."


    "I do love my king," Fu Shen quickly said with a frown and narrowed eyes, "But... but... Why would you think it was him? I will not be so bold as to confess to my king when he belongs to the grandmaster."


    "I told you, Fu Shen, my brother wo-"


    "Stop. You..." Fu Shen walked toward him with anger simmering in those purple orbs, and Han Mo could do nothing but stare, "You. It is you."


    "..."


    "I know you are my master and I am your favorite apprentice. Please do not let my feelings come between our partnership. If you wish for me to-"


    Han Mo did the one thing he had wanted to do for so long. He grabbed Fu Shen''s face in his hands and kissed the boy. He heard the gasp, but quickly felt lips pressed against his. Pulling back, Han Mo laughed and laughed. Holding Fu Shen tightly, he fell on the bed with the boy in his arms.


    "Ah Shen," he mumbled staring with all the love dripping off his touches, "It is you as well."


    "Me?"


    "I love you."


    "..."


    "Are you not going to say it back?" Han Mo''s heart wavered, but burst into bright colors when his longtime crush smiled that rare gentle smile at him to answer.


    "I love you too."

 Chapter 178 - He Will Do It All Again

    Zhang Xu Lan had always pride himself to be like his father: strong, in control, intelligent. Yet, right now, all he wanted was to leave and break something, someone with blood preferably. His skin was itching again and he squeezed his hands until nails bit into his palms. He forced himself to walk and not run to his blonde uncle. He tried not to show he was struggling before his students, his father, and Uncle Mo.


    "Uncle Yue," he whispered and golden eyes turned to him with a smile.


    "Lan-er."


    "Where¡­ where is Uncle Li?"


    "He is away for a while, nephew. Is everything alright?" Ying Yue noted the sweat slowly building at the pinkette''s hairline.


    "When¡­ when will he be back?"


    "I do not know."


    "I¡­ I need his help, uncle. Can you call him back? I don''t think¡­ I can''t hold it back," he shut his black eyes and his body shook from the need for release.


    "Go to the mountain. The one where you worked with him. Now."


    The pink haired boy nodded and left quickly, and he went to his redheaded brother who was working with a group of students in their postures.


    "Master Xu, a moment please."


    "What is it, Ying Yue?" Xu Ling questioned when he joined him at the side away from the students.


    "Xu Lan is reaching his need again. Ah Li cannot leave the Netherworld at the time."


    "Where is he?"


    "At the mountains. Ah Ling, I will go. He would never forgive himself for hurting his own father."


    "But-"


    "No. You stay brother. We will return when he had his fill."


    Ignoring the call to his name from his eldest brother, they could not waste more time. Reaching the mountains, he could already feel the darkness slipping in the air. Quickly settling down, he could see the curly pink hair swaying with the swirl of darkness. Ying Yue called forth his energy and saw black eyes targeted him before his nephew rushed forward.


    When their blades clashed, Ying Yue was reminded of the times he and his husband fought. He huffed softly as a smile curled at his lips. The crackle of golden light with dark purplish black flashed around them. Ying Yue winced when a particular sharp dark lightning cut through his skin. They continued until his nephew tired and they were covered in light bloodied scars.


    "Lan-er, are you alright?"


    His nephew was sitting on the ground with his back to the trunk of the tree and head lifted to the sky.


    "Thank you, Uncle Yue," Xu Lan breathed out with his eyes closed, "I know the Ghost King said I needed to accept it and I am, but¡­ it is so hard to control it."


    "Nephew, maybe that is the problem."


    "Huh?" Black eyes turned to him.


    "I know you do your best to stay in control, to show there is nothing bothering you, but maybe that is the reason it calls to you so incessantly. Maybe you should come here every day once you feel it calls to you, even slightly. The more you catch it early, the easier it will be."


    "Do you think so?"


    "To be honest, I do not know, Lan-er. I only have Heaven''s touch like your father and uncle. Wang Li is the only one to understand your predicament."


    Xu Lan sighed and frowned looking at him.


    "It had been many moons since he left, Uncle Yue. Is he going to make you wait for centuries again? Why must he always leave? Will I have to do that too?"


    "He is the Ghost King, Ah Lan. He has responsibilities that he must uphold like we as cultivators must follow."


    Ying Yue looked away and rubbed his ring. He answered his nephew softly and although he understood why his lover must return, he also understood what Xu Lan asked. He disliked waiting for his husband, but he would rather wait then to never see him again. He just hoped he wasn''t waiting forever.


    "I apologize, uncle. I know it makes you sad."


    "Lan-er, let''s focus on calling forth your dark energy to one hand and your light energy to the other," he instructed and watched his nephew nod.


    He waited as black eyes closed to concentrate. Soon, Ying Yue could sense and see the task being completed. Smiling, he watched the grin split across the pinkette''s face.


    "Now, Lan-er, send them to your blades."


    "Okay!"


    ==


    (Netherworld)


    Wang Li meditated most days as he waited for Ye Wu to return. He could feel his spiritual energy swirling inside his core, but it was less than before. He sighed and opened his silver eyes to the cold walls around him. Standing and leaving the cavern, he walked around the quiet grounds. Ghosts and demons roamed around the mockup village. He was thankful Ye Wu listened to him.


    After seeing ghosts being happy to live a life again in his village, Wang Li released certain demons and ghosts to walk around with no fear. There were still some in cages, but much less now since the battle, the one Han Mo coined Great Death. He did what he did, sacrificed whoever, whatever, for Ying Yue.


    He will do it all again.


    The prophecy was completed, so him being with his wife should be perfectly fine.


    ''Then why are demons acting up now,'' Wang Li frowned as he stood on the roof of the village in the Netherworld. Crossing his arms, the Ghost King looked out into the crowd below and watched a child looking up at him. He offered a smile and the child returned it, before running off. A presence joined him on the roof, and he glanced over.


    Dark blue hair and mirthful purple eyes on the grinning face of a tanned man.


    "My king."


    "Mo Chou."


    The man was still a boy in his eyes, a boy who came to him as the end of the war neared. Blood was on his hands and death reeked into his skin, but the young Mo Chou showed little fear. The boy cared so much for him when he had done nothing but take the boy''s family. He did not understand it, but he was grateful for the company.


    "My king, it had been a long time. How are you?"


    "I am well, Ah Chou," he reached out and pulled the blue strand, tugging the laughing man.


    "Eh, no need to be rough."


    "I did not tell you, Mo Chou," Wang Li cupped the tan face, "Thank you. You have done well."


    The navy haired man grinned and bowed with the tip of his ears red.


    "Did you enjoy your life before you came?"


    "As much as I could before I died. My brother made sure to keep your temple from being ruined. I don''t know if this is still true, though. Haven''t been to the surface in centuries."


    "You haven''t asked Ye Wu to let you up?"


    "Last time I spoke to him, he tried to kill me."


    Wang Li furrowed his brows and his lips thinned.


    "Why?"


    "You know why, my king. He doesn''t like to share."


    "But you are mine, Mo Chou. He should know this."


    The purple eyed man laughed and nodded.


    "I''m sure he doesn''t care."


    Wang Li frowned and cupped the back of the boy''s head. He stared at the once brown eyes, now purple, and hummed.


    "I shall remind him when he returns. For now, Chou-er, join me."


    "I am not a child anymore," the man flushed murmuring his words.


    Wang Li laughed and jumped down from the roof and the boy followed.


    ==


    (Surface Realm)


    Li Chu still struggled on her blade as they flew through the sky, but it was steady enough for her to follow, not to add another weight. She and her classmates were following Master Xu through the sky to their mission in the North Sector. The team settled and she joined her sister on the grounds. Master Xu held a finger to his lips to quiet them. Sounds of zips through the sky was like echoes in their ears.


    Xu Ling narrowed his eyes and pointed at certain points. His students, being studious, followed his lead and moved quickly to their spots. He pulled out a marked talisman and his students did the same. Slamming it to the ground, they all sent their energy into the charm and the zips in the air revealed 3 female ghosts. They looked human with wings and colorful skins. Their hairs were longer than their small body, wispy like smoke. When they notice eyes on them, they giggled in a high-pitched tone, as if they were happy they got caught.


    "Time for you to return," Xu Ling stated and the fairy-liked ghosts laughed as if what he said was humorous.


    They fluttered around and he observed the ghosts split nearing the students and himself. Their unearthly face was soft and inviting, but Xu Ling knew these ghosts could be deadly. Reaching out to place a tag onto the ghost nearest to him, she fluttered and gasped. The other two ghosts heard their struggling of the one tagged and they tossed out particles into the air.


    When they saw their audience still on their feet with set eyes on them, they panicked shouting at one another in high pitched squeaks. Xu Ling nodded to Li Chu and Li Hien to complete the capture. The twins nodded back and quickly moved their fingers, sending their energy through it to create a small cage over the ghosts. They worked in tandem as the bluette and brunette weaved and tightened the barrier.


    When they were finished, the ghosts looked up at them with wide big eyes, scared and fearful of harm.


    "Not falling for it," Li Chu smirked, "Time for you all to return home."


    One of the fairy-liked ghosts squeaked at her, like she was begging, but Li Chu reached forward to send them back, but her master held her wrist. Golden eyes were looking in a direction with his blade before him.


    "Master?"


    "Something else is here. Hold the barrier."


    Li Chu looked over at her sister and they focused on keeping the cage locked. Xu Ling could feel the prickling on his skin and it felt like it was Ye Wu, but he knew it couldn''t be. Ying Yue had already told him who was occupying the demon''s time, though he did not need that information. It still made him squeamish inside.


    ''Then who is this?'' The redhead frowned searching the sky.


    Just as he finished his thought, a large claw came at him. Catching it with his blade, he came face to face with a large wolf. Its teeth were overcrowded and sharp, drools were slipping through growling lips, and the blackened fur felt as if heat was emitting from it. Sending the large monster back, the wolf jumped back and howled. More wolves appeared surrounding himself and his students. He could hear the whimpering of the ghosts as they closed in. He tapped one of his student and wide scared eyes looked at him.


    "What should you do when you feel you cannot win?"


    "I¡­ get, get help."


    The redhead nodded, not once removing his eyes from the wolves around them.


    "Do it."


    The student nodded and dug into his robe with trembling hands. The flash entered the air, signaling his brothers and his son.


    "Do not be afraid. You were all chosen to walk the path of the Heavens. Gather your strength and ready yourself."


    "Yes, Master Xu."

 Chapter 179 - Li Hien

    He heard the echo from his students, and he glanced over at the twins, "Send them back and join us."


    While he was finishing his words, the large wolf howled loudly and rushed forward along with its brethren. Send out a golden slash from his sword, he kept on the defense, making sure to be close to his students. Catching a claw on his blade, the redhead swung his leg and caught the hind legs of the wolf. It stumbled back and Xu Ling strike his sword at a wolf demon near a student.


    He just had to keep these wolves at bay until help arrived. He stabbed into a wolf who cried in pain, but he felt as if it did nothing to deter the others. It only made them angrier. He heard the screams from his students and he turned to where it was. Quickly twisting his blade, he cut through the neck of the wolf attacking him and slashed another on his way to his wounded students.


    Those who were unharmed, placed a barrier together around them and the wolves rammed into it over and over. Xu Ling''s golden eyes saw the wounds, some that would leave scars if healed and some that were too deep¡­


    "M¡­ Master¡­ Xu," LI Hien stuttered out as the gash across her back seeped out. The redhead quickly bent down and pulled out the medicine bottle. Her twin was holding his sister''s hand with tears streaming down her face.


    "Li Chu, hold the barrier with the others," he ordered as he poured it onto the wound, causing the female to scream.


    "Sister," Li Chu trembled as she squeezed her sister''s hand, but the brunette offered a smile.


    "Master told you¡­ to protect the barrier, Ah Chu. Go. I will be okay."


    She glanced at the redhead and slowly pulled herself away. Turning to face the monsters, she dipped her brows in anger and reinforced the shield. She was going to kill them. Every single one of them.


    "M¡­ master," Li Hien said softly as she laid on her front with her wound exposed.


    "Stop speaking."


    She smiled and she could feel the numbing warmth against her back.


    "I am happy that you are my master," she said softly and blinked away the tears, "Please take care of her, Master Xu."


    "Why are you not listening to me?!" Xu Ling huffed upset as he pulled off his outer robe to wrap around the bleeding female.


    "My apologies, Master Xu," Li Hien stared at her sister''s back and saw their shield cracking. Her body was moved, and she winced and gasped from the pain. Clutching to her master''s robe, she cried against his chest.


    "I am scared," she whispered and her body shivered from lack of blood.


    "Do not sleep, Li Hien. Do you hear me?"


    She nodded, but her eyes were so tired. She tried to look around, keep her mind awake, but everything was becoming hazy. She felt the light slaps against her face and she stared into worried golden eyes. She saw his lips moving, but Li Hien could not hear anything. Then another face came into her view and it was her twin. She was crying and Li Hien tried to reach out to wipe her sister''s tears, but her arms were so heavy.


    Then she saw her brother, white hair and purple eyes looking at her in the same state as her twin. She blinked slowly and each time she blinked, things looks more and more blurry. Then, soft fur pressed against her and her head lolled to see Snow, nuzzling her with blood tainted fur. The large head licked her face with kisses and pressed his forehead to hers.


    Li Hien closed her purple eyes as tears slipped down her cheek.


    "No! No! No, no, no, no!" Li Chu cried flinging herself onto her sister, shaking her blue hair. Xu Ling shut his eyes tight in anger of himself for not being able to save his student. The sounds of the wolves screaming and the darkness lifting from the space around them, he knew his family took care of them.


    "It¡­ it''s might fault!" A female student cried out in tears, "I am so sorry!"


    "What do you mean?" Fu Shen narrowed his eyes at her.


    "I¡­ she saved me. I¡­ I was scared and¡­ and she saved me! It is all my fault," the female fell onto her knees and cried.


    "You''re right. It is your fault."


    Fu Shen said coldly and Ying Yue covered his mouth as tears welled up his eyes. He looked to see Snow, who had been away for so long, sitting and staring at Li Hien. Inhaling deeply as his breath stuttered, he went to ward the area.


    "Come. Let us return home," Ying Yue spoke softly once he was finished.


    The way back to the school was filled with dread and tears. Many students were shaken by the strong opponent, the blood, the death. Snow had joined the redhead''s blade, focus on the female in his brother''s arm. When they settled in the school, no one knew what to do, but Ying Yue had to hold himself together.


    "Han Mo, let us prepare."


    The brunette turned to him and nodded slowly. He had to focus on taking care of the aftermath. He can''t focus on what just happened. After, after he can cry.


    ''I need to tell Ah Li¡­ He, he needs to know.''


    "Snow," he called softly and the big cat stood slowly and walked toward him, "Go tell Wang Li. We will¡­ we will send her out tonight."


    "Meow," Snow replied in a murmur with big teary eyes.


    Ying Yue ran his fingers through the spotted fur and shut his eyes. Letting out a deep breath, he pulled away and went to speak with Nuying, Xu Lan, and the students. He needed to be strong. He had to.


    ==


    (Pang Xi''s Home)


    Ye Wu moaned and tilted his head to the side, revealing his long pale neck. Licking his lips, he stared down at Pang Xi with heavy lidded eyes. The green haired man smiled amusedly as he fed another piece of loquat into the demon''s mouth. Pang Xi laughed softly as he chewed the fruit and leaned down to share the taste. They kissed slowly as he sat straddling the mortal man. The hands on his thighs rubbed up and down, before wrapping around to press on his ass. Pang Xi didn''t push him closer or moved against him. The hands just grounded him, kept him warm.


    The knock on the door sounded and he hummed confused. Pang Xi stared at the door and tapped his hips for him to get off. Sighing, Ye Wu moved away and watched the green haired man open the door. His red eyes stared at the blonde as brows furrowed up.


    "Hello Pang Xi. I¡­ I''d like to speak with Ye Wu, if that is alright?"


    "Of course," Pang Xi nodded and turned to the demon. Ye Wu joined him at the door, staring at the blonde.


    "Thank You. Ah Wu, can we speak alone?"


    "No, we can speak right here," Ye Wu frowned crossing his arms.


    He knew the demon wouldn''t be happy being interrupted, but Ying Yue knew Wang Li would want to be there when they¡­ when they send Li Hien off. Swallowing and trying to gather his voice, he looked straight red eyes.


    "Li Hien had died. We will be sending her off tonight."


    "I see."


    Ye Wu sighed and looked at the green haired man. Grabbing the pretty face, he kissed his lover deeply and pulled away with a sigh.


    "I must go, Ah Xi. I will return tomorrow."


    "Alright," Pang Xi smiled and placed another kiss on those red lips. He watched the blonde bowed to him as he followed Ye Wu. Closing the door, Pang Xi covered his forehead with his hand and slid to the floor. He had been holding back because he didn''t want the red eyed man to worry, but it was coming nearer. Letting out a sigh, he closed his pale golden eyes hoping he would still be here when Ye Wu returned.


    ==


    (Lake)


    Ying Yue observed Fu Shen''s fisted hands and straight face, Li Chu''s swollen eyes and red splotches against her cheeks from constantly crying, and Xu Ling''s avoidance of their eyes. He does not know how many times he could hold them, tell them Li Hien will be with the Heavens, comfort them as much as he knew how until they felt better. The student who felt she was a fault for Li Hien''s death did not eat or speak and he worried for her.


    ''I should have prepared for this,'' he reprimanded himself.


    Xu Lan, his pink haired nephew, and Nuying did their best to comfort the children and the redhead. Han Mo did his best to help Fu Shen and Li Chu, but it was as if they closed themselves from the world.


    ''This¡­ this worry must be how my brothers and nephew felt when I¡­ when Wang Li was gone from me.''


    ''Ah Li... Where are you?''

 Chapter 180 - Until The Flames Died Down

    Ying Yue stared at the lake where his husband smiled at him for the first time, where he kissed his lover a second time, where Wang Li told him-showed him how much he loved him. The stars looked like glitter on the water''s surface, welcoming his student. Trying to calm his stuttering heart, he looked at the lotus in his hands and walked to the boat.


    Li Hien looked peaceful and beautiful as she floated near the surface. Lying on the boat with her eyes closed, one would think she was sleeping.


    "May you be at peace, Li Hien and¡­ thank you for always being kind in every life I have met you," Ying Yue whispered and placed the lotus in the boat. He moved back and Han Mo moved to place his lotus into the boat. This continued until everyone had placed their flower into the carrier, but Fu Shen, Li Chu, and Li Yun.


    The white-haired female had her eyes closed and was whispering something that only she and her siblings could hear. Li Yun stepped forward first and the two followed with their heads low and tears falling from their eyes. She kneeled beside her little sister and touched the cold face.


    "My dearest Hien," she smiled and stroke the brunette''s cheek, "May your heart be as pure in the next life as it was here. I love you. Be at peace."


    Li Yun wiped her eyes as she stood and stepped back for her siblings to say their words. Fu Shen did not say a word but held the brunette''s hand with his head low. Li Chu, this was the first time she had ever been silent. The blue haired female sobbed for awhile with her head on her sister''s shoulder. She had always done everything with her twin. This... now, now her sister isn''t there and it¡­ what was she going to do without Li Hien?


    Fu Shen stood up and joined their white-haired sister. Li Chu finally stood covering her face as she turned to pressed her face against Li Yun''s chest. She cried softly and her sister held her close, rubbing her back soothingly.


    "We should send her out now," Han Mo said quietly and Ying Yue rolled his ring.


    He closed his eyes and swallowed the lump of tears, of scream, of a breakdown back into his stomach. He nodded his head and walked down to the boat but paused when he saw Wang Li from afar.


    His lover dropped down from his blade and wide silver eyes stared at the female in the boat. His husband dropped to his knees and cupped Li Hien''s face. He saw Wang Li placed his forehead against the brunette and Ying Yue took a few steps back to give them space. He looked away with his eyes closed because if he were to look any longer, he would start to cry. He can''t. He had to be strong.


    "May you live a happy life, Ah Hien. I owe you much of my happiness to you," Wang Li whispered dropping roses onto the body below. Snow cried and nuzzled Li Hien as if she would wake soon, but the big cat knew it was not going to happen.


    "Did everyone say their goodbyes?" Wang Li asked with a solid voice.


    "Yes, Uncle Li. We''ve all¡­ we''ve all paid our respect," Xu Lan sniffed as he wiped at his eyes.


    Silver eyes closed for a moment, before looking over at Ying Yue. The Ghost King nodded at him and then the blonde watched his husband pushed the boat out into the water. Han Mo moved forward and swung his fan, causing the boat to rock forward down the lake. The stars sprinkled over the boat and Ying Yue fisted his hands and gritted his teeth to not cry.


    Fire blazed when the arrow Xu Lan shot landed on the boat. Ying Yue was taken back to when Sheng Shui died. He wasn''t able to save Li Hien, a person Wang Li loved. His nose twitched with the need to cry, but he refused. He looked over at his students who were crying, a family who was mourning, and his brother who was angry with himself. His golden eyes caught the movement of his husband going to speak with Li Yun, Li, Chu, and Fu Shen. There were whispers, quiet words exchanged, before his lover was wrapping his arms around all three of them.


    Ying Yue turned back to the burning boat and he stayed until the flames died down. He smiled to his students and ushered them slowly to bed. He agreed when they asked if they could share beds. He agreed when they asked if they could stay up. He agreed to whatever they needed to get them through the night. He went to his redheaded brother and wrapped his arms around Xu Ling.


    "No one blames you, Ah Ling. You did the best you could."


    "No, I didn''t. She died because of me. I will never forgive myself."


    The eldest brother pulled away and frowned. Ying Yue reached out again, but the redhead stepped back, avoiding the comfort.


    "Zhang Xu Ling," Wang Li''s voice pierced through quietly like the sharpening of a blade.


    Ying Yue stepped in between his brother and his lover. He searched his husband''s face to make sure there was not going to be a fight. He did not want to have to fight his lover, never again.


    "Ghost King," the redhead replied when Wang Li was close enough to hear.


    They stared off and Ying Yue just focused on staring at his lover''s posture and his face. The chilly air made the blonde shiver slightly from the cold. Silver eyes glanced at him, before he watched his lover''s shoulders dropped.


    "It is not your fault, Xu Ling. I was told Ah Hien fought hard, protected a fellow cultivator, and loved you as her master. She died a hero."


    "Yes."


    Xu Ling turned away and Wang Li looked at the moon.


    "Would you tell me about her, Xu Ling? Tell me what I missed."


    The Ghost King spoke quietly and looked at the redhead. Ying Yue saw his big brother stare at his husband for a moment before nodding.


    ''They are¡­ getting along?'' The blonde smiled and felt the warm palm at his back.


    "Is it alright, my love?"


    Wang Li questioned rubbing his wife''s ear and Ying Yue smiled.


    "Yes."


    Ying Yue closed his eyes as his husband kissed his lips, before walking away with Xu Ling. He smiled and looked over to Xu Lan and Han Mo.


    "We should sleep and¡­ we have much to do tomorrow."


    "I worry for the students," Han Mo hummed in thought looking over at Fu Shen, "This is their first death."


    "I worry for my father as well," the pink haired man mentioned with his eyes still on his father''s figure.


    "We will¡­. We will find a way to help them and us. It will be hard, but¡­ they will push through," they nodded in agreement and he sighed, "Forgive me, Ah Mo, Lan-er, for¡­ for being patient with me when I¡­ when Wang Li was away. I now know how hard it is."


    He felt arms around him and he soaked in the warm comfort of his family. When they pulled away and said their goodnights, he saw Han Mo walk over to the grieving family. Xu Lan joined his father and Wang Li.


    He just watched them for a moment, before he entered his room and took off his outer robe. Slipping into the cover, he curled up and cried.


    He gasped quietly as his heart stuttered with remorse.


    Li Hien, a sweet kind girl, now dead and gone. His body shook from the rippling of tears and pain in his soul. The brunette female was special. She always made him feel cared for, reminded him of Wang Li''s love, did everything with a kind smile. To have someone so pure die because of him, only brought a onslaught of regret.


    If he never created this school, she would still be alive.


    He fell asleep crying and was roused awake when he felt fingers carding through his hair. He felt kisses on his temple then his cheek.


    "My love," his husband''s voice filtered through, "I must return soon."


    Ying Yue reached out and Wang Li joined him in bed. They wrapped around each other and kissed, but his husband was not participating as he would before. Pulling back, his lover squeezed his robe.


    "I apologize, Ah Yue."


    Wang Li said quietly avoiding his eyes and he could feel the slight shaking of his husband''s. Ying Yue pulled Wang Li''s head to his shoulder and his husband tightened his hold. He rarely saw Wang Li cried or had the chance to hold him through his pain. The first time he saw his king cry was when Sheng Shui died, then he had died. The last, when Wang Li died.


    Now¡­


    He rubbed his lover''s back and did his best to soothe his king, as his own tears slid down his freckled cheeks. He didn''t know how long they were clutching onto one another, but the soft snores from Wang Li relaxed his muscles. He kissed his husband''s forehead as he wiped the tears from pale cheeks.


    ''Ah Li, forgive me.''


    Ying Yue closed his eyes and stayed close to his lover, as he fell asleep.

 Chapter 181 - Always Forgive You

    Wang Li woke up as the sun was rising. The sunlight filtered through the room and he took in the beauty of his wife. He smiled and reached out to feel the blonde''s smooth milky skin. His fingers ran over the freckles, so rare in this world, and he smiled when Ying Yue mumbled something softly.


    He continued his movement and pushed strands behind his lover''s hair. His digits ran down to the curve of the blonde''s neck and paused over the beating heart against his palm. He closed his silver eyes and followed the beat with his breathing. Smiling, he opened his eyes and observed Ying Yue''s sleeping face.


    ''My angelic beauty.''


    He softened his face and slipped his fingers into the loose thin robe of his lover. His fingers touched bare chest and he heard the intake of breath from the sleeping form. Wang Li continued to leave featherlight touches on his lover''s skin and pushed the robe off the thin shoulder.


    "Mm," Ying Yue sounded leaning forward with his eyes still closed in sleep.


    Wang Li rubbed his thumb over his wife''s nipple and watched as the blonde reached over to throw a leg over his and an arm over his shoulder. Ying Yue was draped over him, while Wang Li was still on his side. His lover''s beautiful face was breathing softly over his chin and he leaned forward to press lips over the full mark of heaven.


    He slid his hand to the back, underneath the robe, and rolled it down to his wife''s ass. He ran his fingers in between his lover''s ass, lightly pressing up into the crack. He heard Ying Yue moaned softly as hips thrusted up slowly. Wang Li squeezed his lover''s ass and the groan sounded against his collarbone. He rolled his hips, pressing his cock against his wife''s hardening penis.


    "Ah," Ying Yue curved his back and nuzzled into his neck, "Ah Li."


    Wang Li smiled slyly knowing that his perfect kind wife was dreaming of him. He groped the blonde''s ass and leaned down to capture pretty plumped lips. He slipped his tongue inside gasping lips and moved his tongue to taste all that he could inside hot mouth.


    When he was finished and pulled back, he saw hazy golden eyes blinking slowly at him. He smiled and rolled his hips forward. His lovely wife reacted beautifully with head tilted back and mouth parted in a gasping pleasure.


    "Ah Li," Ying Yue moaned clutching the back of his raven hair and rolled his hips, "Do you¡­ not need to leave?"


    "Do you want me to?" He questioned and leaned over, bringing him to hover above his wife.


    "You know I don''t," Ying Yue cupped his face, "My heart hurts each time you leave."


    He sighed and pulled his lover''s hand to kiss the palm, then the ring on slender fingers. Wang Li kept his lips pressed there as he closed his silver eyes. He felt the blonde''s free hand touched his face and brushed the strands away from his face.


    "I love you, Wang Li, my beautiful husband. Would you not forgive me?"


    "For what?" He whispered and his lover smiled up at him.


    "For wanting you this much and¡­ for her loss."


    Ying Yue looked at him worriedly and he shook his head, leaning up to kiss his wife.


    "I will always forgive you, my love," Wang Li kissed the blonde again and Ying Yue hummed pleased.


    Their lips slotted perfectly in place, just like their hearts. They''ve always been connected, always in need of the other as if to fill a hole inside. Ying Yue belonged to Wang Li. Wang Li belonged to Ying Yue.


    This was how it was to be.


    "Ah, husband," Ying Yue moaned and his husband sucked his lips.


    He felt his lover''s hands moved down his body to pull him forward. Wang Li removed his robe and their bare chests touched, searing into his skin to mark underneath it. His husband kissed down his chest and sucked the hard nipple. He pressed into his lover''s mouth by arching his back and turning his head away.


    He missed his lover''s lips on him and all over him.


    "Still the sweet I prefer the most," Wang Li murmured as he moved his lips lower.


    Ying Yue laughed breathlessly as his husband''s hands rolled up and down his thigh. He felt tongue dragging down his abdomen to his erection. He inhaled sharply and bucked up when he felt his lover''s deadly tongue slide up his erected cock. It slid, rolled, and dragged up and down his shaft making his already hard penis throb.


    Then hot mouth engulfed him and he inhaled sharply with his head thrown back. He couldn''t help himself as he thrusted up into Wang Li''s beautiful, deadly, addicting mouth. Fingers groped and played with his balls, kneading them to fullness. Hands slipped under his thigh and pulled his legs apart when all Ying Yue felt was pleasure as his legs closed in on his husband''s head.


    "So good, my love. Mmph, ah, ah, Ah Li," he mewled as his thrusts twitched inconsistently.


    Wang Li sucked harder and the hands holding his legs apart tightened. Ying Yue gasped and panted out loudly with his hands clenching the sheet below them. When his lover pressed a finger in his entrance, the blonde was taken into pleasure-filled bliss. His body bucked and he moaned feeling the back of his husband''s throat bob as Wang Li swallowed.


    Lips slowly removed itself and he pushed himself forward to pull his lover to him, connecting their lips once more. He never liked the taste of his own cum, but when it was mixed with his lover''s saliva and hot mouth, all Ying Yue could do was groan with want.


    The finger became two and now three.


    His penis was leaking again as his wet lips panted after a second release with just fingers inside him. Wang Li continued pumping his thick digits, pulling and caressing his walls. His nails bit into his king''s bicep as a whimper was pulled from his lips. His husband pressed all the way into the knuckles with his fingers curved.


    He inhaled deeply and panted with his chin lifted toward the ceiling. He wanted to move, to thrust into thick fingers inside him, but Wang Li held him still. He blinked away the sweat dripping to his eyes and whined. His husband had been teasing him for too long and he came without the fullness of his lover''s thick cock deep inside him.


    "Ah Li," he squirmed as much as he could and bit his lip, "Please. I want to feel you. No more teasing."


    Wang Li chuckled deeply and kissed his lips softly, but Ying Yue wanted more. He pulled his husband''s lips to him again, kissing his lover as if to lick his soul.


    "Ah!" he cried with a whimper as he held tighter. His husband thrusted into him over and over, bringing him closer to the edge again. He bit into Wang Li''s neck and cried softly as his hole stretched for his lover.


    "My lovely wife," the raven-haired man whispered and pushed fast, then hold his fingers all the way in, before going back to repeat his movements.


    "I- ah! Ah! Mmmm, Ah Li," Ying Yue cried as he tightened his thigh around strong hips and bit harder, breaking skin.


    He moaned as fingers wrapped around his twitching cock. He bit harder tasting blood as he came bucking with a low groan. He pulled his teeth away and placed his head on Wang Li''s shoulder. He licked the open wound and felt fingers pulled gently out of him.


    "Apologies, my husband," he said breathless and his lover turned to capture his lips, bringing him back down onto the mattress.


    "Did you just wish to mark me, beloved?"


    Wang Li left more sucking red marks on his milky skin and Ying Yue chuckled.


    "Maybe."


    His husband laughed and rubbed their noses together. He sighed pleased and felt a light kiss on his lips, before the raven-haired man pulled away. He felt the head of his lover''s cock press into him and he bit his lips with a smile.


    Finally, his husband filled him fully.


    "Hm, you like me inside you that much?" Wang Li questioned as he maneuvered the blonde''s legs over one shoulder.


    "I always want you inside me, my love," Ying Yue breathed out with a grin, laughing softly with soft golden eyes.


    Silver eyes widened before they crinkled mirthfully. Ying Yue moaned as the hardness inside him moved, pushing in and out. He felt kisses on the outside of his calves before teeth nibbled at the edge of his feet. Ticklish there, he wiggled, and it only made the thick long cock inside him jostle. He gasped as the blunt head pressed into his prostate.


    "My silly wife," Wang Li laughed as he moved faster with determination to bring him into another orgasm, "I am always inside you."

 Chapter 182 - He Called To Him

    Ying Yue''s body was vibrating, trembling, shivering from sensitivity and pleasure. His husband continued to pulse inside him, wrought out his needs deep in his chest that no one else could. Tears slipped down his eyes as he watched how lovely his lover was.


    Sweat slipping down hard chest and lean muscles. Braided hair loose and bouncing behind the silver eyed man''s back as his husband continued to pound into him. Ying Yue knew he would always open the door for whatever, whenever, wherever Wang Li knocked.


    "Mm, Ah Li," the blonde panted out.


    "So good, my wife. Perfect, so perfect."


    Wang Li groaned and leaned forward, twisting his bottom half to the side. Then, his husband moved faster, stronger, harder into him as mouth sucked his panting and breath away. Mixed saliva slipped down his lips and he shut his eyes, feeling his ass being smacked over and over by his husband''s pelvis.


    "I am ready, Ah Yue," Wang Li panted out and Ying Yue nodded capturing thin lips.


    He heard the groan against his mouth and he pulled away to watch the redness on his lover''s face.


    "Come for me, baby," Wang Li''s hips slowed and he felt the cum filling him more, "My wife, my Yue-er."


    Hands wrapped around his penis and he inhaled sharply with a keen. When he came with his eyes rolled back and his pucker tightening, his entire body was malleable. He was nothing but a moldable clay for his husband to use however he wished.


    Wang Li laid back down behind him, keeping them connected, and placed a palm against his chest. Smiling, he felt kisses to his head, ear, and temple. He heard the inhale and exhale against his ear.


    "Ah Yue, creating this school is needed to train those with golden souls. Ah Hien''s death is not your fault. No one blames you¡­ or your brother."


    He didn''t reply to his husband but held the palm against his heart.


    "I am proud of you, my beloved wife," Wang Li nuzzled into him, "You truly are Heaven''s Chosen."


    "So are you," Ying Yue murmured with his ears reddening.


    "Mm," his king sounded and nibbled the tip of his red ear, causing him to bite his lips, "Yet your role is the most important."


    "Ah," he breathed out and wiggled his hips, "My role, mm, is nothing¡­ nothing without you."


    "Is that so?" Wang Li breathed darkly still nibbling the cute ear of his wife.


    His beautiful blonde was squirming, squeezing his cock into hardness. He bit harder and thrusted his hips, earning him a gasp from kiss bitten lips.


    "Ah Li," Ying Yue held onto strong thigh, "Mm. Yes."


    He heard the deep laugh from his husband, before he felt tongue trailing down his neck as the cock inside him brought him back into ecstasy.


    ==


    (Netherworld)


    Ye Wu stared with narrowed eyes at thenavy haired boy before him. Picking up a piece, he moved it on the board and frowned deeper. The boy grinned and hummed rubbing his chin. His red eyes watched the tanned boy reached for his piece and moved it.


    "You should pay attention, Ye Wu, or you''d end up losing again."


    His eyes narrowed dangerously and he crossed his arms. What was it about this tanned boy did Wang Li even liked? The navy haired boy was not special or useful, just annoying and ugly to look at!


    "Let''s play a different game."


    "Hm? What game?"


    He grinned mischievously.


    "Who knows our dear king the most. The loser will get stabbed in the heart."


    "¡­"


    "Scared?"


    "Who''s asking the questions?"


    "Me."


    "No."


    Ye Wu laughed with his brows dipped angrily, "You have no say, child."


    The tanned man with purple eyes, the obvious touch of the Ghost King, glared at him before lips stretched into a lazy smile.


    "How about we each tell something about our king. The person with five more knowledge wins. Loser will-"


    "Get stabbed. Perfect. I''ll go first," Ye Wu grinned and already knew he won. He had known the Ghost King for centuries. This boy only knew him for a short time.


    "Wang Li stitched his own handkerchief."


    "¡­"


    The navy haired boy quirked a brow with a smirk. The demon''s grin slid off his face and he narrowed his eyes in suspicion.


    "How did you know?"


    "My turn," the man grinned and ignored the question, "Our king kept his family''s bodies covered in plum blossoms and roses for ten moons before burning their bodies in the river."


    Ye Wu''s frown deepened and the boy grinned.


    "Do not lie, demon. If you do, you forfeit, and I win Ah Li''s heart."


    "Don''t you dare, Mo Chou! You are nothing to him!"


    The tanned man smirked and held up a finger.


    "One point for me."


    Ye Wu growled and thought back to his time with the raven-haired king.


    "Wang Li loves piggyback rides."


    "¡­ What?"


    "Oh, you don''t know?" The demon grinned with a sparkle in his eyes, "One point for me."


    Purple eyes narrowed and Ye Wu grinned.


    He was back in the game.


    When Wang Li finally pulled away from Ying Yue and left kisses on those addicting lips, he arrived in the Netherworld to see Mo Chou and Ye Wu screaming at one another with a certain number of fingers held up. Furrowed brows, he cautiously entered the throne room and heard the words being said.


    "He loves sweets."


    "He loves plum wined rice."


    "The mark was from me."


    "He loves ginger in his tea."


    "He loves looking at the moon."


    "Smelling dandelions make him sneeze!"


    "What? That''s a lie!"


    "No, it is true!"


    "No, it''s not!"


    "You''re only saying this because you don''t want to lose!"


    Wang Li cleared his throat. Ruby eyes and purple eyes looked at him before they sent matching grins his way.


    "What were you two doing?"


    "Oh, we were just playing," Ye Wu grabbed his hand and rubbed his cheek on his shoulder.


    "My king, welcome back," Mo Chou bowed and Wang Li smiled, placing a hand on the patch of navy hair.


    "I am glad you both are playing well with one another," he went to the throne and sat down.


    "Ye Wu, while you are on the surface, send back any demons and ghosts you find. There are many hiding, some low-level demons that had become more threatening."


    "Alright," the demon paused, "Are you well?"


    He nodded and offered a smile. The demon hesitated for a moment before leaving through the portal. Wang Li watched as Mo Chou, the young child that still wish to stand by him, walked up to him.


    "My king, if you wish to be alone, I will be close by."


    He shook his head and looked at his loyal child.


    "Ah Chou, I need you to go to the surface, protect them."


    "Hm? What worries you, my king?"


    Wang Li sighed and leaned his head on his palm. His silver eyes looked around at the empty cages where it once held the strongest demons.


    "I have underestimated what I caused, Ah Chou. What I said to Ye Wu, same for you. Go to the surface, return any evil you find. If you have trouble, take this."


    Wang Li placed a pouch in the man''s hand, and he squeezed the loyal child''s shoulder, before returning to his throne.


    "Protect them Mo Chou. When you meet Xu Lan, be nice."


    "My king¡­" The navy haired man whispered and saw the offered smile from his king.


    "Go, my child."


    Purple eyes searched his king''s tired face. He bowed to the Ghost King and grabbed his blade, before leaving to the surface. He had not been there for centuries and honestly, he would rather be with his king, but he was asked to return to protect the innocents.


    "For you my king, I will do anything."


    Wang Li watched the navy haired boy leave as he instructed.


    Alone, he let out a scream so loud it shook the cages, the clinking of metals, and the darkness fell onto the Netherworld. Those who could roam felt the sharp chill and ran to take cover. Those in prison moved further back into their cages and their king''s dark energy filled the space, almost suffocating so.


    Wang Li''s body trembled and he clutched the armchair, nails digging in scratching the concrete limbs. Angry tears slipped down his eyes and merged with the mark of blood created by the demon mark. Silver eyes are now red and lips pulled into a scowl, Wang Li gripped the arm harder. Pieces of concrete broke with his hold and he stared at them. Crushing them into dusts, he let out a deep sigh and stared at the ceiling.


    He had hoped that his sacrifice would had removed it, but he could still feel it warping him, hitting him harder than it should. His soul... His core was still-


    The voice of his aunt returned to him, haunted him for many centuries.


    "When will you learn you cannot go against fate, child. The Heavens is just as stubborn as you, nephew, and with more power than you possess," his aunt reprimanded him, but he did not listen.


    Even now, he still did not listen, but he was so tired.


    He would do everything for his wife, for his dear Ying Yue.


    ''Have I made a mistake, Ah Yue. Am I hurting you again?''


    Shutting his eyes, he finally called to him. One he only called once before.


    "Jade Emperor, we must speak."

 Chapter 183 - Less Trouble

    Ying Yue pushed his students harder since the loss of Li Hien. Some had returned home, choosing to be with their family, and he understood. He did not blame them for wanting to protect those close to them. He scanned the faces of those still with him, still willing to learn and grow under his family''s instruction.


    "Lotus formation!" Li Chu, the blue haired female called out.


    Her fellow mates, Fu Shen and five others, moved quickly to surround the pink haired master. His golden eyes watched closely as Fu Shen rushed forward with his spear aimed at Xu Lan, who avoided and blocked the attack. His nephew held back slightly, but not enough to not give a challenge for the purple eyed man.


    Han Mo swung his fan, sending strong waves of wind toward the children. Some of the students broke their concentration, but they quickly returned. One of the students held her fan and mimicked the brunette master, sending her own wave toward Han Mo. Both students and masters battled.


    "Now!" Li Chu shouted and both students who were keeping their masters busy, returned to their spot and golden strings quickly wrapped around Xu Lan, tightening around him so he was immovable.


    Ying Yue looked over at his brunette brother who was rushing forward, but suddenly was caught as well. Surprised filled both their eyes and he grinned, looking over at the children. The blonde saw the serious faces, determined etched into their skin, as each student did not move. They held their position for some time, before Fu Shen went to each master and pressed against their forehead. Xi Ling sent a proud stare and Han Mo... Ying Yue was sure that stare was the stare of lovers.


    ''Did they... Are they... Finally?" He questioned and had to ask his brother later about the relationship between them.


    "May you be at peace," Fu Shen said both times and Ying Yue felt his heart filled with proudness.


    He clapped and walked over to them with a smile.


    "Well done everyone. No one hesitated and moved with ease."


    "Thank you, Grandmaster Yue," they bowed.


    "After all that, I am starving," Han Mo spoke up wiggling out of the hold and stood up, "But I agree. You''ve all have been moving like a unit. It is almost hard to break your formation."


    "Next time, please do not hold back Master Mo and Master Zhang. We should be prepared for everything, even the strongest demons," Fu Shen stated bowing to the masters.


    "But I must, Shen-er, or you''d kill me," Han Mo whispered in the white boy''s ear. Fu Shen''s ears reddened and he sent a pout at the brunette.


    "I agree," a student nodded and everyone agreed.


    "I also agree," Ying Yue nodded, "After we eat, each master will spar with each of you."


    "Really?" Li Chu''s eyes sparkled holding her twin''s blade, "Great! Can''t wait to see how strong I have gotten since last time."


    "You''ve gotten stronger not just physically, Li Chu, but mentally and emotionally. You are a role model," the blonde spoke softly and purple eyes widened. The female looked down and bowed, thanking him. He placed a hand on her shoulder, squeezed it gently, and went to the cafeteria. As they entered, they saw Li Yun, Nuying, and Xu Ling in the kitchen.


    "Ah Ling, I¡­ uh¡­ is this right?" Nuying questioned and the redhead turned from the pan to see the garnishes cut like they were confused.


    "Smaller, my peach."


    The pink haired female nodded and tried to cut the items smaller, while the white haired female plated the dish for the masters. Her purple eyes looked up to see her sister and brother sent her a smile. She returned it and went to grab the garnishes. Once the plates were finished, she went to bring them to each master.


    "Thank you, Li Yun," the platinum blonde smiled at her and she nodded.


    Since her young sister passed, the grandmaster had offered a room for her to stay. She agreed to it, so she could be close to her grieving siblings. They had slept in the same bed, same room, for multiple moons until they were ready to mourn alone.


    ["Sister," Li Chu had spoken out for the first time that night as they laid in bed together, "I will live for her."


    "Would she not want you to live for yourself, Ah Chu?"


    "Probably," the blue haired female shrugged, "But still. I will live the life she had wanted."


    Li Yun hummed and sat up, moving so her back was against the wall.


    "And what was it that she had wanted to live as?"


    She watched her young sister blinked at her before gracing her with a frown. The blue haired female looked down in thought, but the movement on her right caught her attention. The white haired boy sat up and mimicked her position.


    "Ah Hien would live happily. She would want to do her best in protecting others, bring happiness and peace, find good in others. She would want us to be happy."


    Fu Shen finished and Li Yun smiled. She grabbed his hand and squeezed it, before reaching for her sister to sit beside her. Holding both her siblings'' hands as they leaned their head on her shoulder, she smiled with her eyes closed.


    "Ah Hien would be proud of you both. I am certain she is taking care of us even in the Heavens."]


    Seeing her siblings now, no longer angry or regretful, but filled with determination and heart made her smile.


    ''Thank you, my dear sister, for watching over them,'' Li Yun''s face softened and went to the kitchen to prepare for when the students come to retrieve their plates.


    At the masters table, Han Mo spoke up.


    "Oi, little brother, when is your husband coming back?"


    "Hm? Why do you ask, Ah Mo?"


    "Well," the brunette chewed the chicken meat, "Ever since¡­ we faced a few stronger demons and ghosts, they seemed to be less now. You know, like in the past."


    Ying Yue heard the insinuation and understood what his brother meant. When he chose to live with Wang Li in the palace, his brothers had mentioned there were less trouble, just like now. He wondered if his husband was doing something to prevent more stronger demons and ghosts. It had been many moons since the last time they faced any negative energy as strong as the wolves.


    "I am not sure, Ah Mo. I just know Ah Li will not return until Pang Xi passes."


    "How is he?" Han Mo questioned as Nuying and Xu Ling joined them, while Li Yun joined her siblings.


    "He is happy with him."


    "With Ye Wu," the redhead frowned, "I still do not like this, Ying Yue. He is trouble."


    "He is lonely, Ah Ling," he replied softly, "He loves our master and in this life, Pang Xi loves him as well."


    "Was that why you would not tell us where he lives? You don''t want us to interrupt them?" Han Mo smirked and shook his head, "Then I am happy he is happy."


    Ying Yue nodded with a smile and ate his meal, looking over to see the small group of people, where the cafeteria was once filled. It was strange. He got used to all the chatters and noises, but now it was a bit too quiet. He made a note to visit his former students, their families, and check in with the sect leaders. No matter how many warding charms and barriers, some demons still were able to get through.


    ''They could already be there, living and hiding,'' he reminded himself.


    "Uncle Yue," his nephew spoke up, "I''m getting the hang of my other power. Can''t wait to spar with Uncle Li and beat him!"


    "Master Zhang will be sparring with Master Li?"


    "When?"


    "It would be a great battle!"


    "Can''t wait to see this."


    The children, no¡­ young adults chimed in and Ying Yue could not help but laugh.


    ''Ah Li, will Lan-er be strong enough to defeat you now?''


    ==


    Ye Wu watched the green haired man breathing softly beside him. His thin fingers smoothed over the sunspots, the dry skin, and over lackluster brows. He leaned down to kiss chapped lips, before pulling away to grab some tea. Standing in the kitchen naked, he heated the tea and stood staring blankly at the wall.


    He knew it was coming soon.


    The ruby eyed demon heard the dry coughing from the room and he shut his eyes. The wheezing coughs slowed down and Ye Wu clenched his teeth. Grabbing the heated tea, he brought the kettle to a tray with two teacups. He walked to the room and stopped at the door to stare.


    Pang Xi wiped his mouth with his handkerchief, the one he had given the green haired man in their past lives.


    Pale golden eyes looked tiredly at him, but the man offered up a smile that did nothing to ease the pain against his beating heart. Letting out a sigh, he placed the tray down on the floor table and went to his lover''s side. He helped the farmer to sit before the table as he poured them tea.


    Pang Xi was too tired to sit up on his own, choosing to lean on Ye Wu instead. He felt the cup pressed against his lips and he opened it, drinking the warm liquid down his throat. He closed his eyes and relaxed into the fingers running through his hair.


    "Forgive me, Ah Wu."


    "No."


    He let out a breathless laugh before another cough wrecked out of his lips. He felt arms wrapped around him and a hand placing his head against thin shoulder. His body shivered and Ye Wu rubbed his back soothingly until his trembles left.


    ''Soon, I will no longer see you,'' Pang Xi closed his golden eyes, ''Will you mourn for me, Ye Wu? Could you live on without me?''

 Chapter 184 - We Havent Even Kissed Yet

    Mo Chou, the loyal servant of the Ghost King, had sent plenty demons and ghosts back. However, it did not mean it wasn''t a challenge to do. He wrapped his shoulder wound as best he could with his ripped sleeve, before going about his way.


    That was until a certain pink haired man felt he needed to be protected.


    How did this happen? Well, Mo Chou did not know either.


    The navy haired man just finished sending a humanoid lizard, twice his size, back when a needy ghost jumped in. It thought he would be too weak to fight back, but the ghost was wrong. Holding his blade, one given to him by his king, he prepared to strike the enemy only to have this pinkette jump in.


    His purple eyes narrowed slightly, but Mo Chou was more interested in why this man felt he could defeat a ghost. To his surprise, the pinkette finished the enemy off quickly and sent it back to the Netherworld. Black eyes stared at him before it zeroed in on the wound on his shoulder.


    ''A cultivator¡­''


    "My apologies, sir, I did not bring medicine for your wound," the man neared and looked at the makeshift wrap, "Let me fix your wrap."


    He grinned and quirked his dark navy brow.


    "I have lots of wounds, my lovely hero. Shall I just remove all my clothing?"


    Black eyes widened and blinked at him confused, before there was a suspicious gleam.


    "How did you get so many wounds?"


    "Ah, well¡­ besides getting rid of monsters, some were from those I bedded," Mo Chou smiled slyly. The pinkette frowned and he grinned.


    "Why are you fighting theses monsters? You should be careful and take care of yourself, sir. Please let the removal of demons and ghosts lay on us cultivators."


    "Who says I am not a cultivator?" The navy haired man moved into Xu Lan''s space, "Maybe I am just waiting for my hero to come save me," the man leaned closer to whisper, "Dear cultivator."


    Xu Lan placed a hand on the weird man''s chest and push him away, removing the dark haired man from his space. A deep frown was on his lips as he searched the grinning face. There was something strange feeling with this man that spiked up his suspicions. Why was this man so wounded and why was he fighting evil? Why was the man not part of the school and why did he not know of him?


    He could feel the growl, the itch to reach out and feel blood in his nails. He shut his eyes and fisted his hands to push it away. He had been working so hard and done so well, but it seemed this man was stirring up his blood. He didn''t understand why, not until the man was in his space again. A hand gripped his shoulder and he heard the statement.


    "You are a demon."


    His black eyes shot opened and Xu Lan attacked the supposed cultivator. He couldn''t suppress it and he hoped his Uncle Yue could sense him. He was far from the school, but he hoped someone could reach him and stopped him in time from killing this man.


    Their blades clashed and Xu Lan pushed his demonic energy more into the blade, wishing it would ease his anxiousness. His body felt inflamed and he did his best to hold back, but the navy haired man was staring at him with narrowed eyes.


    They slid and fought without a break. The trees were being cut apart and some even fell to the onslaught of blades. Their swords continued to dance, defending and attacking until Mo Chou had his sword knocked out of his hands. Xu Lan was breathing heavily as sweat dripped down his temples, holding the demonic blade.


    "I defeated you," the pink haired master panted out, but the man rushed forward catching him off guard.


    He did not hold his blade up in time to block the punch to his face, before his wrist was smacked into the tree trunk, loosening his hold on his sword. Growling, Xu Lan dropped his blade and punched the man back. They wrestled onto the ground until the man had him pressed down onto the floor with his heaving chest to the sky.


    "What is your name?"


    Mo Chou questioned breathing heavy from the excess of the fight.


    "Get off me," Xu Lan gritted out and moved his legs, but went shock stilled.


    "Ah, maybe I like this position," the navy haired man laughed breathlessly, "You are quite pretty."


    The pinkette''s black eyes widened even more as redness covered his ears to his cheeks.


    "Pretty?!" Xu Lan shouted and tried to pull his arms away from the strong grip, "Is this what you do? If you dare do this to innocent peop-"


    "Oh, jealous already? We just met, my hero. We didn''t even kiss yet," Mo Chou leaned closer and Xu Lan turned to the side shutting eyes.


    The loyalist of the Ghost King felt the tremor on the young man''s body, and he grinned mischievously. He licked the bead of sweat at the jawline to the earlobe, receiving tension on the pinkette''s body. Mo Chou hummed and stared at the scrunched face and locked jaws. He had not bed anyone in so long and to see this man not fighting back, giving in to him, just made his entire body ignite with want.


    "What is going on?"


    A voice entered their space and the pinkette''s eyes quickly opened to see the blonde with furrowed brows.


    "Un¡­ Uncle Yue," he cried meekly as if he was caught doing something he shouldn''t have.


    Mo Chou turned and his eyes widened, before he let out a laugh.


    "Heaven''s Chosen, it had been a long time. I am just enjoying myself with this pretty man."


    "Get off me!" Xu Lan screeched flailing and pushing him off. The pinkette quickly ran to hide behind the blonde, who stared at them both with furrowed brows.


    The navy haired man laughed, crinkling the corner of his eyes, and stood up wiping the dirt off him. He grabbed his blade and bowed to the blonde.


    "An honor, Heaven''s Chosen. I shall go now."


    "Mo Chou," Golden eyes searched his face before a smile was sent his way, "You have been sending them back, haven''t you."


    "I have per the request of my king," he smiled.


    "I knew it," Ying Yue said softly looking down at his ring, rubbing it with a smile, "You must be hungry. Come join us."


    "Uncle Yue," his nephew whispered harshly, "This man is bad. We should not let him come to the school. The students will be in danger of all his-! All his shamelessness!"


    "Lan-er, we must be kind to all, walk the path of the Heavens," Ying Yue smiled amusedly, "Besides, you could have broken away from Mo Chou''s hold."


    The pinkette flushed and the navy haired man laughed. Ying Yue grinned and nodded at Mo Chou to follow them. Riding their blades, with Xu Lan eyeing the newcomer only to receive a blinding smile, they arrived back at the school. Ying Yue introduced Mo Chou to his students and his brothers looked warily at the navy haired man.


    "Can we trust him?" Han Mo questioned watching the purple eyed man looking around.


    "No! He is bad, uncle, father. He is shameless!" Xu Lan frowned crossing his arms.


    "Did he do something to you, Lan-er?" Xu Ling, the redhead questioned glaring at the newcomer.


    "He¡­ he-" the pinkette couldn''t finish from how flustered he felt.


    "Mo Chou had the upper hand over Lan-er. I believe he is upset because of that," Ying Yue mentioned.


    "No! He cheated! I could have defeated him if I wasn''t-"


    Xu Lan quickly shut his mouth and realized he should had stopped talking already.


    "Wasn''t what?" His father questioned and he bit his lips.


    "Hm, you did well in this place," Mo Chou walked over and hummed, "Looks legit. Your kiddos certainly are a pretty bunch, Heaven''s Chosen."


    "Don''t you dare touch them, you¡­ you!" Xu Lan pointed a shaky finger at the purple eyed man.


    "Call me Mo Chou or Ah Chou or even Momo, pretty Lan-er," Mo Chou grinned and the pinkette flushed trying to grab his throat, but the blonde pushed him away.


    "Mo Chou, please do not rile up Xu Lan. Come, let us eat. Li Yun and Nuying have prepared our meals," Ying Yue smiled.


    "Wait¡­ did you say Xu Lan?" Mo Chou questioned quietly as he glanced at a fuming pinkette speaking with the redhead, "Xu Lan is Xu Ling''s child?"


    "Yes. They certainly act similar," he laughed and looked over at a pondering face of the navy haired man, "What is wrong?"


    "Ah, nothing, Chosen One. Just thinking."


    Mo Chou wondered what his king meant by being kind to the pinkette. Did his king think he would be angry or rude to the boy?


    ''Ah, maybe my king knew I would rile the cultivator up. Maybe my king knew Xu Lan was my type, pretty and strong,'' he grinned, ''My king knows me so well.''

 Chapter 185 - Never Once Not Think Of Him

    Ying Yue stared at the moon. Up on the roof, he rubbed his ring and smiled softly. His husband, his beloved Wang Li was still taking care of him. His blonde platinum hair looked like it glowed under the moonlight, as golden eyes closed to feel the pickup of wind.


    He swayed with the thought of his lover caring so deeply for him for so many centuries, time, space between them. He certainly was spoiled rotten and he felt his heart full for his husband.


    Never once did Wang Li not think of him. It filled him with an abundance of so much love that Ying Yue willingly drowned in.


    The piercing sound caught his ears and he opened his eyes, sidestepping in time away from the red rope slashing toward him. Quickly calling for his sword, he narrowed his eyes and blocked the swipe of the whip. He could hear the scream, low but screeching near his ear from the weapon.


    The whip was pulled back to its owner, before a female popped up from the bottom of the mountain. She grinned in excitement as her golden eyes, similar to his, sparkled. She swung her whip hard and strong at him, but he fought back.


    The enemies whip smacked onto the roof, causing the wood to break. Ying Yue gritted his teeth knowing that talking would not work with this female. He also wondered where she came from or how she even got there. Something he would need to ask once she was contained.


    They continued to fight with her laughing and he lightened his blade with his energy. Swinging harder at the whip slashing toward him, he cut through the red weapon. The piece screamed loudly in a high toned voice and wriggled in the air. It landed on his shoulder and he felt the burn-like bit through his robe. Shaking it off him, the broken whip sizzled and burned through the roof.


    Before Ying Yue could get his bearings, the female aimed the whip once more at him, surprisingly as if brand new with no cut.


    "Ahhahahaa!" The demon laughed, "My whip is indestructible stupid fool!"


    The female smacked the whip so easily with such strength that Ying Yue felt himself back pedaling at times. Frowning at himself, he thought back to the book Wang Li had left him. It was filled with demons and ghosts, like a glossary of how to defeat them.


    ''Whip, female, horns,'' Ying Yue thought to himself avoiding another blow, ''That leaves 2 demons. One does not talk, but this one does," stopping a hit, his eyes glowed.


    ''Get rid of her whip. It is the source of her power. Without it, she could not fight.''


    So quickly cutting through the whip before the female could pull it back, he smacked the hilt of his blade to the demon''s chin. He knocked the weapon out of her grip, and she screamed but he already wrapped her up in golden strings.


    "Ah! Let me go!" She cried.


    "May you be at-"


    "Mo Chou! Help me!"


    Ying Yue furrowed his brows and glanced down to see everyone had awaken from the commotion. The one the demon called out for sighed and jumped up to join him. Shaking his navy hair, the man frowned at the female.


    "You are an idiot. Why did you even come up here attacking Heaven''s Chosen of all people?"


    "Why shouldn''t I?! He stole our king from you. I am merely going to kill him for you!"


    "Idiot," Mo Chou shook his head, "Even if the Chosen One dies, our king will never be mine," the man gave a sly smirk, "I know this was not just for me. You wanted a reward, didn''t you?"


    "W... What? N¡­ no!"


    His fingers grabbed the female''s chin and she quickly shut her mouth and blinked golden eyes at him.


    "How many times must I tell you? Neither our king nor I will give you the pleasure you wish for," Her eyes widened and she opened her mouth to speak, but the navy haired man already sent her back.


    Mo Chou wiped his hands as if to get rid of the dirt on his palms. He turned to the blonde to see him staring at the ring on his finger.


    "Chosen One," he started.


    "Mo Chou, please. Just call me Ying Yue."


    "Ying Yue, he loves you very much. Do not worry."


    "I do not worry about that, Mo Chou," Ying Yue looked at the man, "I know he loves me and what you say¡­ I know it is true."


    "But?"


    "I worry. For the same thing as the past repeating once more."


    Ying Yue answered softly and stared up at the moon. If stronger demons were walking amongst the living, Wang Li being apart from him, would that mean one of them must die again?


    He shut his eyes and sighed.


    "Ah Yue, are you alright brother?" Han Mo called out and he turned to look down at worried eyes. Nodding to Mo Chou, they jumped down and joined the others.


    "I should head out. Gotta complete my task for my king," the loyalist of the Ghost King stated with a smile as he headed to the entrance of the school.


    "Huh? So soon?" Xu Lan questioned and Mo Chou turned around with a grin.


    "Awe, Lan-er, you miss me already?"


    "Don''t call me that!" The pinkette shouted, "Shouldn''t someone join you, in case you got hurt again?"


    Xu Lan had stepped forward as he spoke and Mo Chou moved closer with a soft laugh. He cupped the pinkette''s face and tilted his head.


    "I knew you cared, dear Ah Lan," he pecked the boy''s nose to earn a shriek. He jumped away from the swings of the blades and bounced backwards to the exit.


    "I will be fine. If I need any help, I''ll be sure to use this," Mo Chou shook the bag, and turned to leave.


    "How¡­ did he get those? Xu Lan?" Han Mo questioned.


    "What? I didn''t give that¡­ that¡­ shameless man anything!"


    "Son, calm yourself," Xu Ling stated and turned to the blonde, "Ying Yue."


    "Ah Li must have¡­ taken my pouch."


    "Did he ask you?"


    "¡­"


    "He can''t just take your things, Uncle Yue."


    "It''s just¡­ I can''t remember if he did or not."


    "Why? You spent all day together before he left again. Were you both not talking this whole time?" Xu Lan questioned with brows furrowed.


    Ying Yue flushed embarrassed and glanced over to see his students also waiting for an answer. Clearing his throat as the memories of what exactly they did that day crossed his mind, he smiled.


    "We¡­ we did speak. I was tired as well. I don''t remember much of it."


    "But Grandmaster Yue, we heard lots of screaming and crying when we walked by your door. Did Master Li hurt you?" One of the student questioned and he felt like if the ground could break to eat him whole, he''d gladly accept it.


    "Yes, Grandmaster Yue, what were you and Master Li doing?"


    Li Chu questioned with a smirk and the platinum blonde glanced over at Fu Shen who was holding a knowing smile, Han Mo who was covering a grin behind his fan, Xu Lan who was staring at him confused, and Xu Ling who frowned deeply at him. He laughed nervously and was grateful that Nuying and Li Yun spoke up.


    "It is late children, let us sleep," the white-haired female smiled.


    "I agree with Li Yun," Nuying laughed softly into her sleeves and reached out for the redhead''s hand.


    "We can rebuild what is broken tomorrow, but I will go ward the area," Ying Yue said quickly and left to do as he said.


    Xu Ling frowned before telling everyone to head to bed. Joining Nuying in his room, he removed his outer robe and she followed suit. Lying in bed together, his lover touched his face and kissed him gently. His large hand slide down her back, pulling her closer to him. Turning them over so he hovered above her, Xu Ling stared at the beautiful demon¡­ no, the beautiful human underneath him.


    "Ah Ling," she whispered smiling up at him as soft small hands wiped the worry lines from his face, "What bothers you?"


    "I have called for the Jade Emperor, my brothers and my son as well, but he had not replied to us. I worry something dark may be coming."


    Nuying searched his face and leaned up to kiss him, as her delicate hands moved up and down his chest. He leaned in more, laying her on the bed and explored her soft lips and hot mouth.


    "I cannot offer you much but myself, LingLing, forgive me," she whispered when they parted.


    He smiled and kissed her deeply as she wrapped her legs around his waist.


    "There is no need to forgive, my peach. Forgive me for not caring for you as you should be."


    Nuying laughed and kissed him amusedly.


    "Depends how well you please me, my dearest Xu Ling."


    He laughed softly and kissed her lips. His lips moved to kiss down her neck as hands pulled the inner robe away from her chest. Her breasts felt the cool air and she bit her lips. Hot mouth moved down her collarbone to suck on a mound. She bucked her hip and gasped with a moan when she felt the redhead''s interest pressed, filling, against her wetness.


    "Ah, Ah Ling," she breathed out with fingers in her lover''s hair.


    Xu Ling thrusted his hips forward and she bit at her knuckles with her head to the side. He did it a few more times and she whined softly. Just as things were starting to get hotter, the door flew open. She quickly covered herself and Xu Ling sighed against her neck.


    "Father! ¡­ Gross!" Xu Lan, his clingy- never knocking on his door- son groaned, "Father I need to talk to you, please," the pinkette said with his hands covering his eyes.


    "Is it important?" The redhead questioned pulling away from the female.


    "Father!" Xu Lan whined, "Didn''t you tell me what I say is always important?"


    "I regret saying so," he murmured and his lover hit him playfully with a smile.


    "Go," she whispered and sat up.


    He nodded and kissed her forehead, before grabbing his outer robe and pulling his son with him.

 Chapter 186 - Make Me Not Leave You

    (Pang Xi''s House)


    Pang Xi smiled amusedly as Ye Wu was trying and failing to keep himself from moving. He quirked a brow at the raven haired man, gaining a pout and large red eyes. His heart swooned and clenched at that look, but he didn''t give in. He ate the strawberry slowly, the way he had seen his mischievous lover do.


    Ye Wu whined and squirmed on the bed, wanting to reach out, but he was tied to the bed.


    "Ah Xi," the demon licked his lips, "Mm, my handsome perfect master, please."


    "Hm? You must be punished, Ah Wu, for teasing me."


    "Mm, I learned my lesson, master. I will be good and¡­ I''m so hard," Ye Wu whined and bit his bottom lip, moving his hips to emphasis his standing erection.


    Pang Xi laughed amusedly and licked his lips before taking another bite. This only earned another whine from the demon and he laughed. Maybe he should release Ye Wu, since the red eyed man was doing well in not breaking the bonds. He brought a piece of strawberry with him and sat beside his lover.


    Pressing it onto willing lips, Ye Wu looked at him with half lidded eyes and bit into the fruit. The juice slipped down the demon''s mouth and Pang Xi licked it, before capturing his lover''s lips with his own. His fingers moved down pale chest to wrap around the hard cock.


    "Mm ah, mm, Ah Xi," Ye Wu breathed out in between kisses.


    Then a noise caught the demon''s ears through his aroused brain. His eyes hardened and looked over out of the window to see they were being surrounded. He quickly broke the bonds and pulled Pang Xi with him to the floor.


    "Stay here," Ye Wu told the surprised green haired farmer, "I''ll take care of the trouble. Don''t leave here no matter what, Ah Xi. Do you understand?"


    "Alright," Pang Xi nodded and he kissed his lover deeply for a second, before leaving the house.


    When the demon saw what surrounded them, he scowled and dipped his brow. His red eyes glowed and he held his scythe, readying to slash every single one of these damn ghosts that thought they would dare attack them. They ruined the mood!


    "You damn leeches! Come here so I can kill you!"


    Ye Wu shouted and the ghosts stopped, tilting their heads as if they were speaking with one another.


    "What? Scared now you fucking ghosts! Hah!" He laughed shortly and grinned, "Too late to run."


    The tilting stopped. Then, one by one the ghosts rushed in moving like a stroke of ink. They moved like wisps of smoke, weaving side to side as if drunk with blood.


    Ye Wu growled and attacked.


    Each swipe released ghosts, but more and more surrounded him. They were reproducing quickly and the red eyed demon, the Head Demon, roared loudly.


    "Fine. Then so be it."


    Ye Wu held up his blade and the ghosts near him were all caught in the inferno of fire. Face stern and hair flowing, his ruby eyes glowed brighter with flames beneath them. His blade grew and he swiped his weapon in an arc, sending blazing fire toward the ghosts. He grinned menacingly and rushed quickly to the other end as if he flew there. Slicing and releasing the ghosts, his fire blade threw sparks and blazing flames everywhere.


    "There you are," he grinned wrapping his hand around the main ghost''s wispy neck, "You dare try to defeat me?"


    "I did not recognize you, my lord," the ghost cried with multiple voices.


    "You ruined my fun and so you shall die."


    Ye Wu tightened his hand around the ghost''s throat and killed it. The black smoke dispersed and he wiped his hands together, as if to remove the dirt of the enemy away from his skin. Turning, he realized what he had done.


    Blazing fire burned down hard grown crops. Flames licked the grass around him and caught the few trees around the house.


    The house was burning.


    Rushing in, he heard the flickering of burning wood as smoke filled the space. He ignored the heat against his skin, undeterred from the fire as he ran to the bedroom. His eyes widened and his heart quickened.


    "Ah Xi!"


    He crouched down and picked up the weak green haired man into his arms. The demon ran out of the house with burnt skin and singed hair, but all his mind focused on was his lover. Placing him on a patch of untouched space, he wiped the smoked face.


    "Ah Xi! Ah Xi!" He cried shaking the man and he felt his heart sighed when pale golden eyes blinked open slowly.


    "Is it done?" Pang Xi questioned softly and the demon pulled his lover close to his chest, nodding quickly.


    "Forgive me, Ah Xi, I ruined everything! I always ruin everything."


    "Kiss me, demon," Pang Xi whispered and he did as the green haired man asked.


    He knew. He could tell by the slow movement, low participation from Pang Xi that the time was now. So, he kissed harder, deeper, as his tears mixed in with their saliva. He didn''t want to pull away, but his lover turned his head to take whatever breath he still could.


    "Thank you," the green haired farmer whispered and Ye Wu gritted his teeth.


    Pale golden eyes blinked slowly at the demon and he curled his lips. He lifted his shaky heavy hand up to touch the tears along burnt cheek.


    "Don''t be sad."


    "How can I not be?! You will leave me again!"


    "Then¡­ make me not leave you."


    Ye Wu held onto the hand against his face and stared into soft eyes. Was Pang Xi telling him¡­ Was his lover really going to¡­ just to be with him?!


    ''Ah Li¡­ this must be how you feel.''


    He breathed out a soft laugh and leaned down to place a gentle kiss on chapped lips.


    "Are you certain, my master? Your soul will be mine."


    "I am yours, Ye Wu."


    He could not believe that this was happening, that Pang Xi was finally his. Still naked knelling on the floor over his beloved master, Ye Wu pressed a fingernail against the man''s skin. He searched his lover''s face to see eyes closed and relaxed.


    "I love you," he whispered and pressed his nail in, biting underneath the left eye of the green haired master.


    ''Mine.''


    ==


    Ying Yue sat drinking the tea in front of the four sect leaders. Each one donning their sector colors with their chancellor. He found himself smiling as he listened to the calm words and cooperative play from each one. It took him back to the leaders he first met: Sect Leader Po of the North sector- rude and angry, Sect Leader Yang- obsessive and manipulative, Sect Leader Jing- calm and strong, and Sect Leader Zhi- welcoming and loyal.


    ''They would be proud of their offspring for living in such harmony,'' Ying Yue nodded as he listened to the sect leader in blue, ''This was what the Jade Emperor had wished for. I understand now.''


    The sect leaders chimed in, offering support, offering advice, offering their hands.


    ''This¡­ we are at peace. Low numbers of demons left on this realm, people living in harmony¡­ Will I finally receive my wish, Jade Emperor? Will I finally be with my husband again with no factors between us?''


    "Heaven''s Chosen," the sect leader in yellow spoke up, "What do you suggest?"


    Up at his table, a level above the others, he smiled at them with softened eyes.


    "I thank you all for being kind to one another," he started, "I would like to reinforce your talismans, the ones from your ancestors. If you could spare some of your warriors for the East sector, that would be kind of you. We must always prepare for any trouble, even when it seems peaceful now."


    They agreed with nods and words.


    "My brothers and I have charmed these. Please hand them to your villagers to hold on to wherever they go. I will go visit your sectors tomorrow to reinforce the talismans. Would that be alright?"


    "Thank you, Heaven''s Chosen," the one in purple bowed, "I do not wish to be nosey, but how is my child doing?"


    "Gong He works well as a team and is strong with his blade. I am proud he stayed."


    "Wonderful! Thank you."


    "Come," Ying Yue grinned, "Let us go see them. My brothers and my nephew are currently pushing them harder to prepare them for stronger enemies."


    He brought the sect leaders and their chancellors to the training grounds. They watched, close enough to see the students broke up into two groups. Three were fighting against Xu Ling, the other three were fighting against Han Mo. They watched as the pink-haired master looked as if he was helping, but suddenly grabbed a female student against him.


    "Enough!" Zhang Xu Lan shouted holding the student with his blade underneath the girl''s neck.


    Li Chu glanced over, distracted by the change in the plan. She felt the punch to her face and she winced, turning with the movement. She scowled and rushed toward her master, only to halt when the hostage screamed.


    "You were working with them," Fu Shen gritted out, making sure to keep his purple eyes on each master.


    "Did you really think I would work with you weak kids? You could barely do anything alone!" Xu Lan laughed manically, "Stupid!"


    "Funny," the male student, Gong He, smirked, "I believe you are speaking about yourself."


    The laughter on Xu Lan stopped abruptly before the pink haired master''s brows dipped. He pulled his blades closer, but realized he could not move. His eyes widened in surprise and his hostage quickly slipped away and slammed her palm against his forehead.


    "May you be at peace."

 Chapter 187 - Take What Is Yours

    Han Mo and Xu Ling rushed to the children, but the smirking male student grinned. With a movement of his fingers, he cried out, "Now!"


    Both masters stumbled slightly, but caught themselves as they sidestepped away from the yellow talismans. Then, they felt their legs close in and they fell with grunts.


    "May you be at peace," the students uttered and each master stared at their students in awe.


    Cheering could be heard from afar and the children turned to see the sect leaders, the chancellors, and Grandmaster Yue watching them impressed.


    "Gong He! My child! I am so proud of you! How did you trick your masters?" The sect leader in purple questioned.


    "Father!" The man turned into a child in front of his father, "We worked really hard! We discussed the fact that our strings are normally bright from our spiritual energy, so how do we lessen it, so it looked almost invisible."


    "So smart!"


    "Yeah!"


    "How did you do it, though?" The sect leader in blue questioned.


    "Lots of practice in leveling our energy," the boy explained with a sigh, "So much practice."


    "But worth it!" Li Chu chimed in and bowed to the adults, along with her peers, "Greetings sect leaders and Grandmaster Yue."


    The students chatted away, showing their best skills to the sect leaders and their chancellors. Before they knew it, the sun was setting, bathing them in hues of oranges and pinks. He turned to see Snow covered in shimmering butterflies. Ying Yue''s eyes brightened as the butterflies flew surrounding them, flapping its cloud-like wings. The insects landed on his platinum hair, sitting delicately like a hair pin.


    "Master Li!" Li Chu waved up at the roof and Ying Yue followed her direction.


    His husband was back.


    Wang Li flowed down and opened his arms welcoming him. Ying Yue ran. He moved so quickly that he smacked himself against his lover''s chest with his own. The butterflies on his hair fluttered their wings, as if to help him to reconnect with his king.


    "My love," Ying Yue smiled and Wang Li leaned down to kiss him.


    He sighed into the kiss and really wanted more when his husband pulled away, but he understood they had an audience watching.


    "Come, Ah Li. Let me introduce you to the new sect leaders."


    ==


    They kissed like there never were distance that separated them. Tongues danced like old lovers, experienced and skilled.


    He missed his husband''s taste in his mouth and fingers in his hair. He missed the way Wang Li''s breath stuttered and hips bucked up into his opened lips. He missed the breathless panting way his lover says his name.


    Oh, he missed the taste of his husband''s cum.


    He sucked the hard cock in his mouth and swallowed the spent down his throat. Finishing with a thorough lick of the twitching penis, he pulled away licking his lips free of any stray cum. Silver eyes watched him aroused and hazy with pleasure.


    "My wife," Wang Li''s chests heaved, and he wetted his lips with a smirk, "Hm, you''ve taken me twice in your mouth already, do you not want me elsewhere?"


    "I want you everywhere," Ying Yue breathed out wrapping his fingers around the half erection and his lover leaned up to kiss him.


    "Mm, my beloved," Wang Li''s fingernails dragged the back of his neck and he shivered with a moan, "Although I love your mouth, my love," he breathed out dragging his thumb over red wet lips, "I want to please you."


    Ying Yue took the thumb into his mouth and sucked, lightly nibbling the pad. The raven-haired man chuckled and smacked his ass. His hands moved on his husband''s chest as Wang Li pulled his thumb out of his wet mouth. His lover sucked and nibbled down his neck to his chest.


    "Ah Li," Ying Yue was pulled into his husband''s lap, as his lover sucked at his nipples.


    When Wang Li did this, it always made him squirm because he just felt his stomach curling and heart spreading. Hands gripped his hips and he moaned.


    "My husband, I want you inside me."


    Lips removed from his chest, wet and red. He felt tongue drag up to bite lightly on his collarbone, before licking up his throat to his lips. Grinding into the harden erection pressed to his pucker, they both gasped and groaned into each other''s mouth. Hands moved from his hips to grip his ass, massaging it, before spreading his ass cheeks. His entrance clenched on air, before a finger pressed in.


    "Ah, mm," Ying Yue closed his eyes as his toes dug into his bed.


    Another finger pressed in, spreading his hole as Wang Li took his mouth again. He participated, but moaned with his tongue hanging when his lover press in four finger, two from each hand and spread his pucker even more. His husband sucked his tongue and pushed those fingers as far in as it could, earning a groan from him.


    "Ah Li," Ying Yue twerked into the thick fingers in him and whined, "Please."


    The fingers pulled out and was replaced with his husband''s thick throbbing cock. Ying Yue''s eyelashes fluttered with his eyes rolled back. His back arched and he mewled rolling his hips in circles. Nails dragged up his back, then back down to smack his ass.


    "Go on, my love. Take what is yours," Wang Li said deeply with his baritone voice that made his entire body tremble.


    Pushing his lover back down, Ying Yue licked his lips as he moved his hips up and down. Hand''s on Wang Li''s chest, he twerked his hips faster, bringing the thick cock deeper into him. Oh, how he missed everything of Wang Li.


    "I missed you," Ying Yue panted out as he bounced on his husband''s erection.


    "Are you talking to my penis? Should I be jealous?" Wang Li joked as he thrusted up, scattering any reply the blonde had.


    Head bowed and panting, he looked down at his lover and bit his lips. Ying Yue nodded and earned another hard thrust into him, punching out a low groan.


    "Then let me remind you, that you belong to me, Ying Yue," Wang Li whispered darkly and his body shivered.


    Wang Li flipped them and did not hold back on digging himself into Ying Yue. His nails dug into his Wang Li''s biceps as his back arched. His face scrunched up with his mouth parted in breathless pants. Faster, deeper, harder his king went and Ying Yue reached down to wrap around his leaking member.


    "Don''t," his husband laughed pulling the hand away, "I will make you cum without any touch to your delicious cock, my love."


    "Mm, Ah Li!" Ying Yue squirmed with his back arched, panting with every buck of hips, "I need¡­ I need to-"


    "Then come, Ying-er, my sweet baby."


    Wang Li said in the tone that made his legs feel weak all the way to his stomach. The thrusts were harder, pressing perfectly against his prostate that made his mind blanking and body trembling. Gasping and gripping, digging nails into skin as his skin vibrated from the motion his lover was creating. He came shouting and crying for his husband, whether to stop him or have him continue, he wasn''t sure.


    All he knew at that moment was the blissful peace of pleasure and love.


    "Mmphshu," Ying Yue mumbled out with a groan and eyes closed.


    His husband kissed him, sticking his tongue into his mouth and traced every dip. Saliva mixing and dripping down the corner of his lips, the blonde could do nothing more than give everything to his lover. Hips bucked hard and sharp into him, before the pulsing cock inside him shot streams of cum, filling him fully.


    Hot panting breath against his ear, his lover''s strong body over his, and the sweat mixed with Wang Li''s fragrance was overwhelming him. He kissed his husband''s jawline before Wang Li turned to capture his lips again. His fingers ran through long black tresses and he sighed relaxed.


    "I love you," Wang Li stated with devotion, quiet and sweet.


    "I love you more," he replied with a soft laugh.


    "That is true."


    "¡­"


    "I am only agreeing with you, my love," his husband grinned slyly, "Is that not what you wish?"


    Ying Yue moved his hands from his lover''s hair to slide down strong neck to pause over his husband''s collarbone. He felt Wang Li cupped his face and lifted his chin so his golden eyes were looking at silver ones. Thumb ran over his bottom lip, spreading the saliva that slipped.


    "My beautiful Ying Yue, I will love you as long as I am alive and even in death. You are my light and I am your shadow. If we are graced with a new life in a new world, I shall find you and love you all over again."


    "You aren''t my shadow," he breathed out as he bit his lip, running his palm down hard chest muscles.


    "But I am," Wang Li whispered and kissed him again.


    Another round they went, and another. Another.


    He did not know how many times he came, but he can feel his husband''s semen sloshing inside him as he bounced on his lover''s thick cock. His mind was hazy and his body was tingling, but all he want was more of Wang Li, more of his cum inside him.


    More of his addicting husband''s touches and love.

 Chapter 188 - You Can Watch

    Kisses were placed to the back of his neck and he tilted his head to the side to give his lover more room. Mouth attached itself to his pulse point, nibbling and sucking it, causing his bouncing to stutter. Fingers wrapped around his leaking cock, already wet and dirtying the sheets even more, and he gripped his lover''s knees.


    "So beautiful," his king groaned and rolled up into him, "So delicious."


    "Ah! Ah, ah," Ying Yue panted out open mouthed, "Mm, Ah Li, more. Please, please, please."


    Wang Li groaned deeply and reached his arms behind him for leverage, then he thrusted up. The sound of Ying Yue was something he loved, especially when his wife came shaking and crying in pleasure. He watched as his lover''s ass smacked with each buck, each push, every pound. He watched as blonde hair bounced and moved side to side with the shake of his wife''s head.


    "Mm, ah! Ah! Oh, husband," Ying Yue groaned as he rolled his hips, "Please."


    Wang Li lifted his leg to position himself and gave his wife exactly what he wanted. He could hear the moaning from those plump red lips, one that signaled Ying Yue was going to finish once more. He pulled the blonde''s trembling body against him as he continued to pound into his wife, he reached down to stroke the weeping cock.


    "Ah!"


    Ying Yue shouted through strained voice, weak from all the shouts through their many intercourses. Mewling and whimpering from the fisting on his sensitive penis, he leaned against his husband and rolled his hips more incessantly. He could hear Wang Li''s panting quicken and the groan against his ear.


    "Please," Ying Yue turned his head to kiss his lover''s jaw to earlobe, "My king."


    The hard pounding caused him to gasp sharply, as his body was thrusted up. A few more and Wang Li came inside him with a long deep moan. Ying Yue bit his lips with a grin, humming please as he felt his lover''s spent added with the others. His husband moved down his chest to rub his slightly rounded stomach.


    "Ah Yue," Wang Li breathed against his ear, "You''re getting bigger. Could you be with my child?"


    "Ah Li," Ying Yue pouted with a hand over his lover''s on his stomach, "You know I am a man. I cannot carry your child."


    "Mm," his husband sucked the curve of his ear and he felt the pinch to his hardened nipple, "Then you shall hold my cum until you do."


    Ying Yue groaned and nodded, earning a beautiful chuckle from his lover. Still connected, they kissed as the sun began to rise, bathing them in the morning light.


    "My wife, you''ve never called me king when we make love before."


    "Ah, yeah¡­ Sheng Shui¡­" he flushed and tucked his face under his husband''s jaw, "He told me¡­ he gave me a¡­ uh¡­"


    "Is it that embarrassing, Ah Yue?"


    "It''s just¡­ different."


    Wang Li ran his fingers down the nape of Ying Yue''s neck, causing him to shiver and moan. He was pulled back by his hair and lips caught his. His handsome husband smiled softly at him as fingers ran up in down his thigh.


    "Tell me what Ah Shui told you, my love."


    "Um, well¡­ he said I should try¡­ I should try being¡­ being inside you," Ying Yue finished into a whisper as his big golden stared up at his lover.


    "Oh," Wang Li furrowed his brows searching his face, before Ying Yue saw that brilliant smile on ethereal face.


    "If you wish to try, my beautiful wife, I am willing."


    "You¡­ you want to?" The blonde flushed biting his lips.


    Wang Li chuckled and kissed his lips, before pulling away. His husband lifted him off and some of his lover''s cum leaked out of his pucker. He whined and earned a slap to his ass, making him yelp. He sat and watched his king moved to position himself against the top of the bed. Silver eyes looked at him half lidded and licked his lips.


    "Husband," Ying Yue breathed out and his husband spread his legs, kicking him gently to have him move in between.


    His eyes were still wide and his heart was beating hard against his chest. He never thought he would ever be in this position. He enjoyed his husband inside him very much, like amazingly so. Yet, to be in this position¡­ before Wang Li¡­ going to enter his Godly lover¡­ his husband!


    His entire body flushed as he watched Wang Li rub his half-erect cock to wet his fingers. Ying Yue watched as a thick finger rubbed over the pucker. His face felt so hot as he continued to observe the finger pressing into the willing hole.


    "My love," Wang Li breathed out, "Do you wish to just watch?"


    He forced his eyes away from the pink pucker to amused silver eyes. Ying Yue swallowed hard and looked back at the finger slowly penetrating his lover''s entrance. He licked his lips and leaned down to remove his husband''s finger to replace with his tongue. He heard the gasp from his king and he closed his golden eyes.


    He enjoyed the taste of his lover. Every lick was like the taste of plum wine. Every taste was like drowning in addiction. He dragged his tongue over the clenching pucker and press in. Wang Li moaned and he felt fingers dug into his hair.


    Him making his king pleased with need sparked an immense pleasure through his entire body.


    He licked the tight walls and thrusted his tongue. It felt weird feeling the walls tight against his tongue and his nose pressed against the large balls. He pulled away, wiping his drool and glanced up to see silver eyes watching him.


    "You can watch, my love."


    Ying Yue nodded slowly and sat on his heel. He watched thick finger press into wet slicked hole. Soon, another and another. His cheeks were burning and he had to press his hands on his hardening cock. Wang Li inhaled sharply as he pressed his fingers deeper, with his eyes still on the blonde.


    Ying Yue looked at his husband''s face, reddened with arousal, then back at the stretching hole and erect thick cock. Then, Wang Li stuck two fingers from both hands and spreading his entrance making Ying Yue''s mouth dry.


    "Go on, my wife. Enter me."


    Ying Yue nodded and pressed his tip to the welcoming hole. He hesitated, but the smile on Wang Li''s face erased his fear. He pushed in and inhaled sharply as he felt the warmth, the tightness wrapping around his shaft. It was similar to his lover''s mouth, but so different.


    "Oh, Ah Li," he panted already feeling his throbbing penis twitching.


    "Mm, you feel good, Ah Yue. Come, fill me baby."


    Ying Yue''s hips bucked and he pressed all the way in with his breathless pants. His body trembled and he moaned when his lover rolled his hips. He looked at Wang Li and watched the way his seductive husband licked his lips.


    "Take me. Please, Ah Yue. Move," Wang Li breathed out.


    Ying Yue did. He pushed in and out, groaning and sucking his lips. Being inside Wang Li was different and amazing and so tight. He leaned down to capture his lover''s lips and moaned into it. They panted against one another''s mouth as he continued to pound into his husband.


    His body shivered and teeth gripped at his pulse point. He bucked and came with his mouth wide, eyes rolled back, and breathless gasps. He whimpered against his lover''s neck as he nuzzled with a sigh.


    "Feels good, huh?"


    "Mm¡­ you¡­ you haven''t cum," he mumbled and pulled away, feeling the long hard cock against his stomach.


    "I will, inside you my love."


    Ying Yue''s face brightened and he nodded quickly. Wang Li chuckled and Ying Yue pulled out slowly. He stared at the cum leaking out of the tight hole for a moment.


    ''That¡­ I¡­ I came inside Ah Li¡­''


    He flushed and quickly looked away, as he moved to straddle his husband. Pressing the thick cock inside him, he moaned deeply as he was filled once more. He leaned back down to kiss his lover, tonguing one another as the cock pushed up into his willing entrance. Hands groping his ass, he bit his lips with his back curved.


    "Yes! Yes! Please, Ah Li! Ugh! My king! My king! Ah!"


    Wang Li grunted and gripped his ass so hard, he could feel those fingers pressed against his muscles. Semen swished inside him as his husband came, thrusting and bucking deeply into him. Panting out, they stared at one another with dopey smiles.


    "My husband," Ying Yue sighed with a smile, relaxing on his lover.


    "Mm, my wife," Wang Li sighed and ran his hot palm up and down his sweat slicked back.


    The Ghost King continued to rub slowly, calming, relaxing, even after the light snores from the blonde occurred. He closed his eyes and knew he would need to speak with his wife soon about what the Jade Emperor had offered. He knew Ying Yue would be upset, maybe hate him, but this world needed his wife.


    ''Forgive me, my love. I keep hurting you.''

 Chapter 189 - We Created You

    Wang Li ran his fingers through his lover''s hair as Ying Yue sat before him. He combed it before parting it into large strands. Braiding his wife''s hair, each fingernail dragging lightly across scalp, earning a low moan.


    "Hm, maybe I should do this more often," he chuckled and kissed his lover''s temple.


    "Please spoil me," Ying Yue sighed and he tugged the strands to have his wife''s head bent to face the ceiling, giving him a perfect space to kiss his lover.


    "Am I not keeping you from your duty, my love?" He whispered to the platinum blonde.


    "You are a terrible distraction, my husband."


    He laughed against his beautiful wife and sighed, rubbing their noses, then placed a kiss to the tip. Moving back to his task, he hummed a tune they both recognized while he finished tucking and pulling on the light strands.


    Ying Yue joined in the hum and ran his thumbs over his king''s knees. Closing his eyes, he could still remember him playing for Wang Li, which ended with them having sex. Then he remembered when he returned from a different world, fell in love with his king, and was very nervous to play it for his husband. That led to some of his memories unblocking and their separation once more.


    "Ah Yue," Wang Li kissed his pulse point at his neck with arms wrapped around him, "I have finished."


    "Thank you, my love."


    Ying Yue did not move from his spot and Wang Li did not speak after that. They sat on the floor staring at nothing, just enjoying one another''s scent. No one interrupted them as they spent 3 full moons in their room wrapped around one another.


    Ying Yue was not stupid. He knew something was going to happen, something always does when his husband was with him for more than one moon. Letting out a sigh, he spoke up with his eyes closed and heart squeezing.


    "You are leaving again. You always have to leave¡­"


    The arms around him tightened and he clutched them like an anchor in the rolling sea. Always, always, always leaving him. He could never keep his husband with him. It must be him. There were no curse left holding them back.


    "Is it Ye Wu?"


    Wang Li planted kisses on the back of his head and his temples. His body was turned to face his husband and kisses tried to distract him, but Ying Yue needed to know. If Wang Li were to leave him again, he really would not be able to heal his heart, or wrap it in bandages any longer.


    "Ah Li, please. For how long? For whom?"


    "¡­"


    "Ah Li¡­"


    His handsome husband parted his lips and before words escaped, blood wrecked out of his throat. Ying Yue''s eyes widened watching his lover turn away to cough blood once more. His mind was shouting at him and he clutched his lover tighter to him.


    "No. No. No, No, NO, NO, NO!"


    The platinum blonde shouted as tears pricked his eyes. Quickly reaching for the handkerchief he was working on, he pressed the light blue silk against his lover''s lips. Sweat dripped from the raven man''s temples and dripped down his prominent chin. All Ying Yue saw was a repeat of the past. One he thought they long passed.


    Wang Li turned to him and pulled away from the hand on his mouth, offering a smile, but it did nothing to ease anything from Ying Yue. His wife, beautiful, kind, perfect Ying Yue looked terrified. Wang Li sighed and grabbed his hands, rubbing them gently.


    "You''re making me a handkerchief..."


    "Yes."


    "A beautiful color, my love."


    "Ah Li..."


    "..."


    "..."


    "Jade Emperor," the Ghost King spoke quietly and closed his silver eyes.


    Ying Yue furrowed his brows before he was graced with the golden light from Heavens.


    "Chosen Ones."


    "Jade Emperor," he bowed with his hands still in his lover''s.


    "While you were wasting your time with your husband, you''ve forgotten your path."


    "My path is to bring balance, balance is here. I do not see an issue with me spending my time with Ah Li. Whatever is wrong with him, tell me how to fix it, please."


    He heard the Jade Emperor scoffed and he glanced at Wang Li who was staring at their hands.


    "You do not understand how entwined we made of you both."


    "Please explain. No more lies or misinformation, Jade Emperor. Speak the truth, please," Ying Yue said sternly and tightened his hold on his husband''s hands.


    "Very well," the Jade Emperor spoke in a regal tone as always, but there was a somber tint within his words.


    "When we blessed the Ghost King with his gifts, we were certain he would complete what we wish of him, but we soon realized the boy, birthed from a mortal, would have evil thoughts, corrupting the good we gifted him. So, we created you."


    "What?"


    Ying Yue furrowed his brows with a frown.


    "You have no parents in this life, your past life, not even in the new world."


    "That¡­ that doesn''t make sense. I must be birthed from a woman. How else could I-"


    "You were created, Chosen One. Birthed from the ground, solidified through fire, and bathed in the water of the Heavens. You were pure, no evil touched you¡­ at the time. You, the one we gifted far more powerful than the man beside you, to bring forth balance when the boy becomes evil. You know this."


    "I did not know I was¡­ created by the Heavens, but¡­ yes. I know of my mission, but that was completed. Wang Li should be able to stay with me freely. He is not stuck anymore, Jade Emperor. He died!"


    He could not believe the Heavens were going to separate them once more!


    His husband leaned forward, pressing soft kisses on his temple and cheek.


    "Why aren''t you upset, Ah Li?" He sent his furrowed brows to his lover and his king sighed.


    "Did you not realize it, my love? When I am with you, the demons are stronger, appears more¡­ it costs Ah Hien''s life and your students to leave," Wang Li cupped his shaking face, "And your need to be please by me when I am here¡­ It is the truth, my love."


    "No!" Ying Yue pushed his lover and removed the touch on his face, "It cannot be the truth. There must be another reason, Ah Li. I am tired of you being away from me because of them! I only wish for you not only to please me. You are my husband, we should stand beside one another, not apart! The¡­ the increase of demons can be taken care of and I know¡­ I know Ah Hien would wish for us to be together, not apart."


    "My wife-"


    "Don''t, Ah Li. Don''t tell me otherwise. I am tired of this. You belong to me as I belong to you. They cannot stop us anymore. You told me! You told me we will create our own fate!"


    He was huffing and panting from his speech. Wang Li''s eyes tightened and lips thinned. It was a look that Ying Yue recognized, one that said he should stop speaking nonsense. Ready to force his husband to listen and believe him, the Jade Emperor spoke up.


    "Chosen One. Your purity is corrupted and the world is unbalanced. In order to fix this, the Ghost King must return."


    "How is it unbalanced? It IS balanced! I have students who are strong and prepared to face any enemy. I have my brothers and nephews who can lead and send ghosts and demons back. The sectors are all on good terms with one another. There is harmony. The world is balanced!"


    "The world will never be in balance."


    "What?! It is! You just don''t want us together! You keep taking him away from me! I won''t let you do it again, Jade Emperor."


    "Child! Do you not understand?! This anger, this incessant need to be with the Ghost King, these are all increased the more he is here. Listen to me," the golden light said sternly like a father reprimanding their child, "In order for you to stay pure in mind and soul, you have no need for anger or hate. Only love, compassion, hope.


    We knew you could be tainted by the human realm, so we connected you to the Ghost King. Any impure thoughts, feelings, will all go to the Ghost King. Do you understand now, Chosen One, this anger you are feeling will be released to your husband ten folds."


    Ying Yue''s eye widened and he glanced at Wang Li in question. His husband stared at him with sadness but offered a smile to him.


    "That¡­ that can''t be true," he whispered.


    "Let me remind you," the Jade Emperor spoke in a strong tone, "When you met the Ghost King as a child, you were starting to develop thoughts, feelings that led to your obsession. This only strengthened the Ghost King''s obsession for you."


    Ying Yue felt his eyes widened and he stared at his lover who reached for his trembling hand.


    "Your shameless thoughts, your unending need for him, only pushed his mark to release."


    "No," he shook his head.


    "Yes. You were his curse, but we did not factor in how strong your feelings would become."

 Chapter 190 - My Soul Is Broken

    The hand squeezed his and he turned to his husband, walking closer, needing to be near him.


    "Did you know?" His voice wavered.


    "No, not until recently or else I would have told you beloved. I promised I would be honest with you. I intend to not break it."


    Wang Li spoke softly and he squeezed the hand in his.


    "How¡­ how do I know this is the truth?" He turned his golden eyes at the golden light, "You were not honest with my master, you were not honest with us. How do I know this is true?"


    "I assumed it was not needed after the Ghost King died, but then the demon gathered the broken soul. The Ghost King had returned and you have became the way you are once more¡­ but worse," Jade Emperor paused for a moment, "He must return to release himself, Chosen One. If he stays, this world will not survive another war, even with your students trained for battle."


    Ying Yue stared blankly at the heavenly being.


    "Fine. Wang Li will return to me every 2 moons."


    "No."


    "Why not?"


    Ying Yue dipped his brows, staring angrily at the Jade Emperor. Arm wrapped around his head, pulling him to press his face against his lover''s shoulder.


    "My soul is broken, Ah Yue. If it weren''t, I would agree every 2 moon I shall return, but with my broken soul, the cracks are forming. It would be harder for me to release it quickly. I have to recover in the Netherworld," he heard the deep sigh against his ear, "If I didn''t, I would be here always."


    Wang Li whispered and pulled the hand gripping his to place on his heart. Ying Yue closed his eyes and sent his energy through to feel what his lover was saying. He felt the chipped edges, the cracks spreading inside of his lover''s soul core. His heart stuttered and his throat closed up.


    This¡­ this was going to break him.


    Ying Yue tried to pull his anger back. He did not want to add to all the other things his husband had to carry because of him. Letting out a deep breath with his eyes closed, he tried to clear his mind and let what was said wash over him.


    "Forgive me, my husband. I continue to make you worse," he whispered, but quickly felt hands cupped his face.


    "I won''t. There is nothing to forgive, beloved."


    He nodded and smiled when he felt lips pressed against his. Wang Li moved to kiss his forehead and he sighed.


    "Tell me, Jade Emperor, there is nothing else. My heart cannot take anymore loss. Ah Li''s soul may be broken, but so is my heart."


    "Nothing."


    "Then, how long would he need?" He looked at the Jade Emperor before looking at his husband, "Ah Li?"


    "Ah Yue¡­" Wang Li closed his silver eyes and sighed, "Many moons."


    Ying Yue bit his lips from crying and he pressed his face to take in as much scent as he could from his lover. He was going to miss his husband all over again.


    ''Why must it be this way?''


    "Once a year."


    "What?" Ying Yue pulled away to stare at the heavenly light.


    "One day each year, the Ghost King is allowed on surface."


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "Autumn Festival."


    "¡­"


    "Wang Li will return to me on that day. He is strongest during that day."


    Ying Yue turned to see widened silver eyes, before they crinkled with a grin on those lovely lips.


    "Very well."


    "Really?" Ying Yue blinked surprised.


    "When the sun begins to rise to when the moon begins to set, you both may be together. If you stay longer or show up too soon, there will be no visits and we will remove the Ghost King''s power."


    "That is f-"


    "He is only alive because of it, child."


    The blonde thinned his lips.


    "He is dead. You are tainted. This world will tip and death will occur once more."


    "Do not threaten us, Jade Emperor. Wang Li already sacrificed himself for your prophecy to be completed. If you take away his power, then I will not hesitate to bring him back to me or force myself into Heaven itself to get his powers back."


    "Ying Yue," Wang Li said gently and pulled his face to face him.


    "It is true. Even if my mind and soul is clear of any anger or hate, even if I block my memories of you, even if you were thrown to a different world without me, I will find you. It is my turn, Ah Li. I will not make you wait any longer."


    His husband''s eyes watered as he laughed so beautifully that there was no way Ying Yue would ever let his lover go. Even blocking his own memories of Wang Li, his heart was still yearning for the silver eyed man. They were connected. The Jade Emperor and the Heavens were at fault as well for creating him, for connecting him to such a beautiful man, for his indiscernible need for his husband.


    "I know your love for the Ghost King, child. We all do. Do not think we do not regret many actions we took," the golden light sighed.


    "Then release the curse, please Jade Emperor. I beg you," Ying Yue went to his knees and kowtowed in agony.


    "My child," there was a softness in the heavenly being''s tone, "What is written will stay. You both tried to overwrite it for many centuries. Staying together, sacrificing Heaven''s Chosen, killing the Ghost King, faking his death."


    "It was not a fake!"


    Ying Yue shouted crying and he felt Wang Li kneeled beside him.


    "I stabbed him and watched him die in my arms, then watch him leave my fingers. I broke him, shattered his soul! He died! It was not a fake! It wasn''t!"


    Wang Li pulled him into warm arms and warm chest. He cried loudly with his entire heart and he clutched his lover''s robe tightly. His mind provided him with the events of the past. Memories of that fateful day, the day he wished to drown himself in wine to forget, flashed back brightly in his mind.


    "The prophecy, my children, always ended with the Ghost King''s death, your Wang Li. Do you understand what this means? No return."


    Wang Li leaned down to kiss his wife''s lips and held the platinum blonde closely.


    "For true balance, the Ghost King must die for good, but we in Heaven know this is not an option for either of you. You are both stubborn and selfish."


    Wang Li tightened his hold around is wife for a moment, before removing his lover''s warmth. He closed his silver eyes and bowed lowly, kowtowing to the Jade Emperor. This startled the golden light of heaven to see their first chosen, one who only demanded and caused them trouble, bowing to him.


    "Jade Emperor and those in Heaven. I apologize for all that I have done. I know I have caused you much trouble and it is not a lie that I would do so again. You''ve connected Ying Yue to me. You cannot sever this bond. But, I am willing to sacrifice myself for my wife and this world."


    "No! Ah Li, you cannot."


    Ying Yue threw himself on top of his lover, still with his forehead to the ground. He shook his head as he cried, wiping his tears on his husband''s robe. Hiccupping and holding his lover tightly, he knew he was selfish. He kept choosing Wang Li over the world in this life and the other.


    "Very well."


    "No! Please, please don''t-"


    "Once a year, the Ghost King will be allowed to the surface world. It does not complete the prophecy, but you will see one another. Return to your realm, Ghost King, by the time the sun rises. As for your death Ghost King and your pain Chosen One, I will speak with the others."


    The golden light faded away.


    Wang Li, still bowed lowly, did not speak a word. The only sound in the room was his hiccups and crying. His husband wrapped his arms around him as he sat up, bring him into his lover''s lap. He continued to cry, tucking his head against his lover''s neck, just wishing and praying that they could stay together. That was all they wanted. Why couldn''t they have that?


    His husband pulled his face away and wiped the big droplet of tears off him cheeks. Wang Li smiled at him and kissed his lips, smoothing his worries away. Yet, all he could think about was that he would be away from his husband again.


    Ying Yue kissed his husband hard, deep, pressing himself to his lover. He pushed Wang Li onto the bed and reached down to unbuckle the belt. He quickly pulled his lover''s robe away and slipped his hand into the bottom. Wrapping the thick cock, he pumped it still with his lips sucking and drinking everything of his husband.


    He was on a frenzy to take all of his lover while he still could.

 Chapter 191 - This Is Not Goodbye

    "Ah Yue," Wang Li moaned and panted against his lips, "Slow down, my love."


    "No, must not waste time," Ying Yue pulled back to remove his own clothing and pulled at Wang Li''s bottoms.


    He quickly climbed onto the bed and straddled an amused husband, who pulled him closer. He wanted a deep kiss but got a slow dirty one. He wanted fast and hard but received slow and needy.


    "Ah Li," Ying Yue tried to thrust up when his husband flipped them, but Wang Li was pressed hip to hip.


    "I know you wish to rush, my love," his husband spoke softly and pushed his strands away from his face, "I wish to remember you like this. Would you let me?"


    The blonde shut his eyes as his heart hurt and his eyes watered.


    "I will miss you," he whispered, "Please do not forget me."


    "Never, my beautiful wife," Wang Li kissed his lips gently and smiled down at him, "You are mine. Any world, any life, any time, we will always find one another. My heart is yours."


    His husband rolled his hips and Ying Yue breathed out a slow gasp. The bed squeaked with the thrusts and he wrapped his arms around his lover''s neck. Legs hiked up to place over strong shoulders, the blonde could not stop his eyes from rolling back in pleasure.


    "Ah, ah, ah," he panted over and over, before he keened when a particular thrust hit his bundle. It felt like every thrust was knocking his prostate over and over again. His wet cock was rubbing his own abdomen, ready to release.


    "Mm, please," Ying Yue pulled Wang Li down to kiss him and gasped when his lover rolled just right that pushed his body to shiver.


    He came with breathless pants and soft lips kissing all over his face.


    Wang Li continued to roll his hips and watched every detail of his wife. From the way the blonde''s breath hitched, the way fingers clenched, the way mouth parted, tongue licked, the way legs tightened, and the way Ying Yue said his name, Wang Li will remember it all.


    He came into the clenching hole, marking his wife as his once more.


    "I love you," he breathed out and golden eyes opened, blinking at him slowly.


    "I love you more."


    "Yes."


    "Ah Li¡­ I will forever wait for you."


    "You are too good for me, my beloved."


    "I know," Ying Yue kissed Wang Li and held him close as he cried softly, "Do not forget me, Ah Li."


    "How will I do that?" His husband chuckled and kissed his cheek to his lips, "You forget, my love. You are the only one to hold my heart. I will think of you always."


    "Promise?"


    "Yes."


    Closing his eyes, he kissed his husband deeply.


    "Come my love, let me feel you inside me," Wang Li whispered when their lips parted and he reddened looking away shyly.


    "If that is what you wish, Ah Li," Ying Yue whispered and bit his bottom lip, listening to the deep chuckle that sent shivers down his body.


    "Oh, I wish for a lot of things, my beloved wife. You shivering under me, screaming my name, begging for me."


    "Ah Li!" Ying Yue laughed and flipped them over so he was over his husband, "You did say my voice was your favorite song."


    "Yes, I wish to hear you always."


    Wang Li kissed him and dug his tongue into his mouth. Moaning, he relished in the feel of his husband''s every single twitch and breath. His tongue licked and tasted his lover''s pucker and his fingers, not as thick as his lover, pushed in. He watched as his husband made a pleased moan when he had three fingers thrusting inside.


    His mouth sucked and licked the thick girth, earning a loud groan from Wang Li. His husband''s hips thrusted up into his mouth and into his fingers. He sucked harder and thrusted faster. Wang Li gasped and moaned, clutching his platinum blonde hair.


    "My love, ah, ah, I love your mouth," Wang Li groaned out trusting his hips into hot wet mouth.


    Ying Yue moaned and moved his mouth deeper. He could feel his throat tightening around the thickness and he felt as if he was suffocating with his husband''s cock, but he did his best to please his lover. He swallowed and earned a twitch of hips.


    Wang Li thrusted up and pressed so deep he choked with his nose pressed against thick coarse hair. The semen filled his throat and he swallowed moaning, as he humped the sheet below him.


    "Ah Yue, inside me, my love."


    He pulled off and licked his swollen lips and hollowed throat. Wang Li¡­ oh Wang Li looked delicious with his flushed skin and wet lips. Moaning, he pushed into the tight hole and thrusted. His husband kissed him and tongued him as if his lover was tasting his ass.


    Oh did he love it when Wang Li did that.


    "Ah, Ah, mm, my love," Ying Yue panted and Wang Li bounced on his dick, joining him in the rhythm of his movement.


    They breathed and panted into one another''s mouth, before Ying Yue felt his eyes shut tightly and his hips bucked up. He slowed his hips and he sighed filling his lover with his semen.


    "Mine," he mumbled dazed with pleasure and delicious lips.


    "Yes," Wang Li chuckled, "Forever."


    ==


    Saying goodbye was never easy for them.


    Ying Yue watched as Wang Li said his goodbyes to Fu Shen, Li Yun, and Li Chu. They looked sad and even the white-haired boy had tucked his head against the man in red''s chest. Then, his lover said goodbye to the rest of the students and Nuying. There were whispers exchanged and the female bowed to her waist, wiping her face.


    Next, his pink haired nephew.


    Though Zhang Xu Lan was upset that Wang Li was the Ghost King, he knew how much his nephew loved his husband. Ying Yue watched as Wang Li placed a hand on the young adult''s shoulder, before the pinkette walked into the space and held his husband. Silver eyes widened slightly, before they closed. Wang Li hugged back and placed a hand on the pinkette''s hair.


    Then his husband went to his brothers.


    Ying Yue watched as Han Mo bowed and Wang Li smiled. Words were exchanged and a grin spread across his brunette brother''s lips. Then, Xu Ling also bowed and that surprised him. His redheaded brother had never once acknowledged his husband in such way and it brought tears to his eyes.


    Finally, it was his turn to say goodbye to the Ghost King.


    He watched his husband step into his space with that look, the one Wang Li had when he died, and the one Wang Li always had when they were to part.


    "I will miss you every second I am away," his husband whispered cupping his face, "Know that I love you truly."


    "I will think of you always, Ah Li. Not a day will go by without my thoughts on you," he whispered back softly and he was graced by the brilliant smile of his lover''s.


    They kissed and he held his husband tightly to him, making sure to rub the plum scent onto himself. When they pulled apart, his fingers clutched his lover''s red robe tighter. As if knowing his thoughts, Wang Li pulled his outer robe off to drape over him.


    "Red always looked beautiful on you," his husband tightened the robe as he pushed his hands through the sleeves.


    Fingers pulled his hair out of the robe, wiping strands away from his face. His eyelids fluttered and another kiss was placed gently on his lips.


    "I will see you soon," Wang Li said softly and pulled away with their hands still in one another.


    His king stepped backwards and turned, but the hand on his gripped tighter. His silver eyes glanced back at his wife to see big golden eyes sparkling with unshed tears. Smiling quietly, Wang Li lifted the hand and kissed the ring. In his other hand, he whispered to the closed fist.


    A butterfly fluttered out of the opened palm and landed on Ying Yue''s grip on his lover. It didn''t move and waited until he forced himself to pull his hand away from Wang Li. It sat on his ring as he lifted his finger with the butterfly to his ear.


    "My beautiful wife," his husband''s voice sounded and his face scrunched up as he bit his lips, "No time can keep me from you. We are destined, fated, connected."


    Ying Yue watched as Wang Li continued to step back, smiling at him lovingly, before his husband turned away.


    "You are my world, Ah Yue. Be the embodiment of all you are, the light to everyone''s darkness. I will be waiting for our reunion. Then, I shall take all of what is mine."


    He could no longer see Wang Li, but he could still hear his lover''s voice, smell his scent, and feel his touch. Laughing as tears slipped down his face, he smiled softly.


    "Uncle Yue¡­" Xu Lan, his nephew of both light and dark, spoke hesitantly, "Are you¡­ going to leave again?"


    He turned to look at his nephew and shook his head.


    "Not this time, Lan-er. I will stay."


    Ying Yue looked out to where Wang Li had long gone and closed his golden eyes, listening to the last words of his lover.


    "This is not goodbye, Ah Yue. It will never be goodbye, my love. Never."

 Chapter 192 - What About Me

    Years. So many moons and time went by in this quiet world. Wang Li and Ying Yue followed what the Jade Emperor said. His husband would come visit him early in the morning as the sun was rising when the Festival arrived. Then, he would leave late in the night.


    Yet, when Wang Li was away, Ying Yue went through different stages whenever his lover was no longer with him.


    Some days, Ying Yue would stare at the moon and smiled, being reminded of his husband''s eyes. Some days, he would cry himself to sleep due to loneliness without his lover. Some days, he would laugh and sigh listening to Wang Li retell stories-some fictitious- through the messenger butterfly.


    Other times, he would play his guqin, play their songs as memories flowed through each pluck of the silken strings. Other times, he relived the paintings, the drawings from centuries before and even new ones that his husband had drawn.


    "What are you looking at Grandmaster Yue?"


    He looked over to see Li Chu bouncing over to him with her brother, Fu Shen. He smiled at them, happy to see their relaxed face and smiles. He turned the paintings toward them to show them what he was looking at.


    "Wow! Is that Snow?" The blue haired female awed with a grin.


    The siblings looked through the pages and he saw his other students joining. He answered their questions and even painted an image of his husband for them to witness. This led to him teaching his eager students how to paint.


    "How does this look, Grandmaster Yue?"


    "Am I doing this right, Grandmaster Yue?"


    "Grandmaster Yue, can you show me what to do again?"


    Laughing softly, Ying Yue helped each student who needed it. This was nice. Demons and ghosts still roamed, but they were not as challenging as before. Then again, it was probably thanks to Mo Chou who had been showing up more often.


    Some days, Mo Chou would enter with a scroll, a butterfly, a painting, or all of them for him. Other days, he received nothing but an apology. Sometimes that hurt him, but it only made him send his lover''s loyalist three gifts.


    "Wow, that is pretty good."


    "Ah, I have no talent in art."


    "The eyes are too big!"


    "Ugh¡­ I quit."


    "Fantastic work!"


    His heart sighed with contentment as he watched his students chattering with smiles. He looked out of the doors to see his nephew speaking with the tanned skinned man. A grin split across his face and he mentioned Mo Chou had arrived. Every student perked up, ready to receive a gift from his husband.


    ''Ah, my love, you are spoiling them.''


    Outside, Xu Lan was having a hard time keeping his face from reacting, but Mo Chou really made his skin itch and crawl. Why? The navy blue haired male was blinking at him innocently, but his words were¡­ were shameless!


    "Lan-er, my beautiful bubblegum, how I thought of kissing you and making you the same color as your hair."


    "Mo Chou, what did my uncle gift me," he gritted out with his eye twitching.


    "Me, my body," Mo Chou blinked at him and the pinkette flushed lightly.


    "Stop playing games," he mumbled.


    "Eh? Who said this was a game? It is the truth."


    "Mo Chou," he gritted out lowly losing the calm fa?ade he held up.


    Before he could continue, his students had ran toward the tanned man. He watched as his uncle''s follower turn to them with a bright smile and crinkled purple eyes. He observed the lilt in his tone and the kind words sliding off those mischievous tongue.


    What an actor this man was.


    "Ah Chou," his blonde uncle smiled at the man and Xu Lan couldn''t help the stretch across his lips into a smile. His uncle was always the happiest when Mo Chou was here.


    "Ah Yue," Mo Chou finished passing out the candies Wang Li had given him to share, "Hm, you look better and better when I see you. Should I tell my king?"


    Ying Yue let out a chuckle with a grin and nodded.


    "Tell him, Ah Chou, so he will never forget me."


    "He couldn''t even if he wanted to, Ying Yue. I have a story that you are going to love," the blue haired man grinned, "Without the students, of course," he finished with a whisper.


    The blonde brightened with a slight blush covering the tip of his ears and the loyalist laughed. He handed candies to everyone else: Xu Ling, Han Mo, Nuying, and Li Yun. Looking in his bag, a silver butterfly flew toward Heaven''s Chosen and the platinum blonde closed his golden eyes.


    Mo Chou smiled softly and waved Li Chu and Fu Shen over.


    "My king said it took him a while to get it made, but gifts for you."


    He handed Fu Shen a pipa and Li Chu two flutes. She tilted her head with furrowed brows and he sent a soft smile.


    "One for Li Hien," he said softly and purple eyes widened before the blue haired female placed it against her chest.


    "Ah! Also, this so you can practice. My king is not the strongest in learning music, but he did his best in writing down songs he remembered from his past."


    He handed both student the music books handwritten by Wang Li. They clutched it tightly with their mouth dropped and eyes wide. Bowing, they thanked Mo Chou for bringing them gifts from their Master Li and said they will send back a letter.


    ''This feels good,'' he hummed to himself and suddenly saw a hand in front of his face.


    "What about me?"


    Zhang Xu Lan, little Lan-er, half of Heaven and half of Demon frowned with his hand out waiting for his gift. He looked in his bag and produced a rolled-up scroll and waved it before him. The pinkette''s eyes brightened and he reached for the item, but Mo Chou held it back.


    "Tsk, tsk, my dear Lan-er," he shook his blue hair, "This is for your uncle."


    Ying Yue thanked Mo Chou and looked over to see his nephew stomping his foot.


    "But! Where is mine?! Uncle Li wouldn''t forget me! He promised me he won''t."


    "Maybe he got busy," Mo Chou shrugged.


    "He didn''t forget everyone else."


    Xu Lan bent at the waist to look into the bag to find it empty. Not believing his uncle would ever forget him, he shook the bag. It was tugged out of his hold and the back of his hair was gripped. His black eyes stared into purple ones.


    "You should not touch what isn''t yours, Zhang Xu Lan."


    He felt his cheeks warming and his breathing quickening. His eyes were watering, and he felt his heart dropping feeling forgotten. A slice of betrayal of a broken promise from the Ghost King.


    "Why don''t you give a kiss and I will tell you?"


    Mo Chou leaned in and paused seeing the look on the pinkette''s face. Black eyes looked away and Mo Chou could see the redness, not of embarrassment, splotchy on pale skin. Letting go of pink hair, he watched as Xu Lan bit his lips and looked down, defeated and upset.


    ''Did he push too far?''


    Reaching into his sleeves, he procured a small bag.


    "I was only playing with you, Ah Lan. Do not be upset. My king made sure I kept your gift safe."


    Black eyes, watery and reddened looked at him, before looking at the bag. He reached for it and walked away, leaving his uncle''s loyal follower behind. Mo Chou watched the pinkette''s retreating figure and he looked over to the platinum blonde with his shoulders dropped.


    "I hurt him."


    "Lan-er is sensitive. I am sure my husband already told you."


    "He told me not to tease him too much, but I cannot help it. He is so adorable when I do," he whined and crossed his arms. Sighing he looked back at Heaven''s Chosen to see golden eyes staring at him. He quirked his brow and the platinum blonde did the same.


    Rolling his eyes, he felt his king''s wife placed a hand on his shoulder.


    "Be gentle with my nephew, Ah Chou. He misses my husband. Ah Li is the only one who knew what burden he carries. One with Heaven and Demon blood. Please do not tease him when it comes to Wang Li."


    "My apologies, Heaven''s Chosen."


    Mo Chou sighed and rubbed his face with a frown. No wonder the pinkette always got so angry when he teased him. Heading to where the pinkette disappeared to, he saw the redhead narrowing golden eyes at him. He sent an apologetic smile to the cultivator and saw his king''s nephew sitting under a blossoming tree.


    He sighed and walked over to sit before the pinkette male. Xu Lan did not acknowledge him or even look at him. Black eyes stared at the poured content from the bag. He reached out to touch an item, but the master gripped his wrist tightly.


    "I hate you."


    He felt those words burned his skin. His wrist was let go and he pulled his arm back. Reaching into his sleeve, he pulled out the letter and placed it on the mat. Black eyes stared at the letter for a moment, before they blinked tiredly at him.


    "I apologize, Ah Lan. I do not mean to hurt you."


    "Liar," was whispered and Mo Chou sighed deeply.

 Chapter 193 - How We All Feel

    "I want you to be flustered, upset, but not hurt."


    Xu Lan took the letter and read it quietly to himself. Mo Chou waited and observed the pinkette to see the pale face scrunched up. He heard the hiccups and saw the tears slipping down splotchy red cheeks. He reached out and cupped the master''s face, thumbing the tears away.


    "If it makes you feel any better, Ah Lan, he sometimes calls me your name."


    "We aren''t even alike," Xu Lan hiccupped.


    "I know! You''re prettier than me," Mo Chou laughed with a grin.


    "Stop it," the pinkette frowned and pushed him gently away. Mo Chou followed and sat back before reaching back into his sleeve. A white clouded butterfly revealed and the pinkette wiped his eyes.


    "He said if you ended up crying, to give you this."


    The butterfly spread its wings and flew over to the pale man.


    "Lan-er," his uncle''s voice entered his ear and he scrunched his face feeling more tears coming, "I miss you nephew. If you are hearing this, then you are in tears and Mo Chou felt you needed this. Remember that you carry much on your shoulders. Share the burden, dearest nephew."


    Xu Lan sniffled and saw the red handkerchief with a gold plum blossom handed to him. He had seen this before. His Uncle Yue had the same one.


    "Wipe your tears, Lan-er. When you would cry in my palace as a babe, I would play you a song. Would you like to hear it?"


    He nodded.


    Xu Lan closed his eyes and felt his lips curled to the melody his uncle was playing. He wished he could watch the raven-haired man play this before him. He wished the man in red was here helping him with his powers. He wished his uncle was here.


    Opening his black eyes, he saw Mo Chou just watching him. Clearing his throat, he looked back down at the items and felt his body calmed. With his uncle''s music playing against his ear, he picked up a talisman with a golden phoenix.


    He then reached to a round beaded bracelet. It was clear, but when he touched it, it bled into black. Holding it up, he turned the item and stared at it with furrowed brows.


    "It would clear if your powers are balanced, Ah Lan."


    He looked over at the navy-haired man and glanced back at the bracelet. He slipped it through his hand and he called forth the power of the Heavens to see the wrist lightened gold. The pinkette pulled it back and saw his bracelet colored half black and gold.


    "Wow."


    "He wanted you to be able to see when you are unbalanced."


    "He really makes it hard."


    "Hm?"


    Xu Lan let out a short laugh and looked at his uncle''s loyalist.


    "To be able to stop him when he goes bad again. Ugh! This is how Uncle Yue feels."


    "No, Xu Lan," Mo Chou sighed with a small smile, "This is how we all feel."


    ==


    (Netherworld)


    Red eyes looked amusedly at his lover and his brother. They both had been working hard building another set of homes for more of their people to roam freely. The demon ate a piece of bun with a grin as he watched the beautiful men sweating. Chests and backs bared for his ruby eyes to drown in.


    "Ah Wu, stop staring. Bring us those bricks."


    He laughed and dragged the bricks to them. He kissed the green haired man and sighed feeling his lover kiss back. He pulled back and ran his fingers under the left eye.


    "Ah Wu, do not distract me or I could not help our king."


    "It is alright, Pang Xi. I will finish this wall."


    "Are you certain?"


    "My brother in insatiable, Ah Xi. Please him enough so he doesn''t bother us again."


    "Ah Li!" Ye Wu shouted red in the face, but Wang Li only smirked at him.


    Pang Xi nodded with his ears red and dragged the head demon with him to the palace. Wang Li laughed and sighed relaxed. Down in the Netherworld, he could not see the sun or the moon. He could only tell time from the light in the sky. Staring up at it, he closed his eyes and imagined the moon, his wife, his beautiful lover.


    Exhaling a deep breath, he returned to his work. It kept him busy, kept his mind at bay, and his heart at peace. He would smile every so often when he felt a slight tug of anger, of lust, of sadness, of pain. It only proved to him how much his wife was trying to not let it affect him.


    ''How I miss you, Ah Yue.''


    "Ah! Yes!"


    Wang Li sighed shaking his head amused. Reaching his hand out, he sent out his energy to cover the palace into silence. No one needed to hear Ye Wu and Pang Xi making love. Although he was happy for his brother, he did not want to hear any of it.


    ''Hm¡­ were we too loud as well, beloved?'' He wondered for a moment before his lips curled into a deep smile.


    "Mm ka-ing."


    His silver eyes turned to the conjoined twins.


    The ones his dear wife almost killed due to his power warping in the blonde. He was glad he stopped his lover. He knew Ying Yue would never forgive himself. His wife certainly blames himself for many things and Wang Li would forever try to lessen his lover''s blame.


    His eyes softened seeing their big eye staring up at him, reminding him of his nephew. They held their hands out with grabby motions and he squatted down quirking his brow.


    "Candy." "Candy."


    "Did you two do good today?"


    They nodded quickly, bobbing their heads like it was on springs. He smiled amusedly and hummed, placing his fist under his chin.


    "Tell me, children, what did you learn today with your teacher?"


    They looked at each other for a moment and held out two fingers in one hand and two in the other.


    "Chu! Chu puhsh chu," they moved the fingers together, "Por!"


    Their eyes shined at him and he felt his heart melted. Pulling out two candy on the stick from his pocket, he handed it to them. They gave him a quick hug before their black tongues wrapped around the sweet. Wang Li patted their heads and returned to completing the wall for homes.


    His smiled when the children went to sit where Ye Wu had occupied earlier, blabbering sounds at one another. He welcomed it. It filled the space so he didn''t feel so empty, so alone, under the realm where his lover lived.


    ==


    Sitting on the throne, Wang Li listened to the ghost pleading to be among those who are free to roam. He glanced at Ye Wu who quirked a brow at him. His silver eyes caught the pale golden ones and he smiled.


    "What do you think, Pang Xi?"


    "Me? My king¡­ I don''t-"


    "Your opinion is important to me as Ah Wu''s. You are my brother, after all."


    The red eyed demon perked up with a grin and the green haired man chuckled softly with a nod. Golden eyes assessed what the ghost had stated and he hummed. This ghost was an elder, one who had done horrible things to children. The elder had been locked up for fifty centuries and had not been able to leave the confines of his cage since.


    The elder looked pleadingly at him and Pang Xi sighed, returning his eyes to waiting silver ones.


    "I believe everyone deserves forgiveness, my king. What this elder had done is unimaginable and terrible. But¡­ a trial of freedom, perhaps?"


    Wang Li listened and a part of him could not help seeing his wife in the green haired man. The kindness, the hope that only one of the Heaven''s could possess. Silver eyes slid to the elder demon bowed lowly.


    "You are free to roam and we will assess after the 70th nights. If you have done nothing wrong, you will be free, but listen closely elder. If I find out you lay any part of you on my children even after assessment, then I will rip you soul apart just to put it together and do it all again! Do you understand."


    "Yes! Oh I thank you, my kind king. Thank you!"


    The ghost kowtowed and Wang Li dismissed him with narrowed eyes. He called forth a demon snake to follow the ghost, monitor the elder''s movements. If the elder were to do anything against what he stated, the snake would eat him whole, just to bring the ghost to his palace to be tortured.


    He looked over to see pale golden eyes staring at him, searching his face.


    "Eh, Ah Xi, keep looking at Ah Li like that and I will get jealous."


    Golden eyes blinked and turned to the red eyed demon to see a frown on those pretty lips. He let out a quiet laugh and placed a kiss on his lover''s temple. He pulled Ye Wu to stand with him and he turned to his king.


    "My king, may I return to work on the walls?"


    "As long as my insatiable brother works as well."


    "Ah Li," the demon pouted before sighing, "Alright, fine. I hate you," Ye Wu mumbled.


    "And I love you, Ah Wu."


    Red eyes widened before a bright grin covered the demon''s lips. Wang Li was embraced and felt Ye Wu rubbing against his temple with his cheek. He tapped his brother''s arm with a laugh and the demon pulled away to place their foreheads together, smiling softly at him.


    "I am happy that you are mine again, Ah Li."

 Chapter 194 - I Pray You Are Well

    "Remind me, when you both return to share the song I wrote for you two."


    Ye Wu pulled back with brows up to his hairline.


    "You wrote us a song?!"


    "Mm, now go. I expect the walls to be a quarter way completed."


    Pang Xi smiled and bowed, but Ye Wu was already pulling him away. Wang Li watched them leave and smiled at their retreating backs, before he sighed out. He relaxed his face for a moment, before straightening it into the cold king he was.


    He made a wave gesture and another trial for freedom appeared.


    Yawning, Wang Li stared at the empty room after finishing another ten trials. Placing his elbow on his arm rest, he leaned his head against the fist and closed his eyes. His mind drifted and he found his lips curling when the image of his beautiful Ying Yue appeared.


    ["Look! Ah Li," the platinum blonde at the age 13, called out.


    He watched as his friend waddled out of the lake, wet and soaked holding a small pool of water in his hands. Ying Yue¡­ this was the day before his best friend had disappeared for five years, the memory he had to hold onto for so many moons. His young self walked over to meet the pretty blonde.


    In the pool of cupped water was a tiny golden-orange fish moving from one end to the other.


    "A koi fish."


    "Mm! It is amazing, isn''t it?"


    Wang Li nodded and moved to the lake wanting to also catch a koi fish too. To his surprise it did not take long before a black one with red underbelly swam around his cupped hands. Ying Yue stepped into the lake to where he was and they stared into their hands. Without words, they cupped each other''s hands to form a bigger pool, so the black koi and the golden one swam around one another.


    ''This¡­''


    He glanced up to stare at the platinum blonde who was staring at the fishes with a soft smile. He tugged lightly and green eyes glanced at him. They bent down to release the fishes back into the water and watched them swam around them, before leaving them to bathe under the sunset sky.


    Hands still wrapped around the other.]


    His silver eyes parted ,opened slowly and he lazily slid over to the presence beside him. Navy hair slipping down tanned skin, as the head leaned against his leg. He smiled gently and ran his fingers through the child''s hair. A mumbled escape his loyalist''s lips, but none he could make out.


    "My king?" Mo Chou yawned.


    "Mm."


    Purple eyes blinked up at him and he watched the tanned man rubbed his eyes.


    ''His eyes were brown once,'' he remembered and his heart softened when he remembered back to the days with this child.


    Reaching his palms to clutch the man''s cheeks, he took out his handkerchief to wipe the drools from the child''s lips.


    "Eh? My king. I am not a child anymore," purple eyes looked at him and a pout formed on Mo Chou''s lips.


    "You will always be my child."


    A flush covered the boy''s cheeks and the pout turned into a grin. He nodded and stood up stretching, before dragging the heavy bag to where his king sat. He saw silver eyes widened and he let out a laugh with a shrug.


    "Guess they miss you even more than you thought."


    "Chou-er¡­"


    Mo Chou laughed and shook his head.


    "Do you want them here or in your room, my king?"


    Wang Li did not reply for a moment searching the child''s face.


    "How is my nephew?"


    Purple eyes shifted away before a grin pasted itself on the Mo Chou''s face. Silver eyes searched his loyalist''s face to see the tension along the eyes and a small twitch at the corner of the right lips. Letting out a sigh, he shut his eyes and rub his face.


    "He wrote you a long scroll worth of lectures. One of the reasons it took me so long."


    "He is upset with me."


    "He is always upset with someone," the grin dropped and the words were mumbled out of the child''s lips, "He is rarely happy."


    "I see."


    Wang Li stood up from his throne and went to pull the child into his arms. Placing his forehead against tanned skin, he closed his silver eyes for a moment.


    "Go rest, Chou-er. I will need your help when you wake."


    "Alright."


    Placing a kiss to the child''s forehead, Mo Chou always got red in the ears. He smiled amusedly as the tanned man headed out of the throne room and he picked up the heavy bag. Entering his room, he sat down with the bag and wondered why it was fuller than it normally would be. He opened the large pouch and a grin immediately caught his lips.


    How he missed the surface world.


    He pulled out well baked sweet buns, biscuits, and strawberry filled rolls. Then there were letters upon letters and a few small boxes. He pulled out scrolls, paintings, and books from those at the school. He felt his lips curled into a smirk when he saw the letter from Han Mo.


    ''Are you going to tell me you finally won his heart, cultivator? You''ve wished for it for centuries.''


    Opening the letter, he read the words written and found himself laughing.


    "Ghost King," it said, "I despise how deep your hook is in Ah Shen. Why can''t you just keep Ah Yue and give me Ah Shen!" Wang Li could hear the groan and see the defeated look, "He talks about you like he always had in all his life. Even with the treat you gifted me to give him, he knew it was from you! Did you know! I will win his heart, Ghost King!"


    Wang Li shook his head with a grin as he read the last line.


    "Although I want you to stay there until I win Ah Shen''s heart, I cannot do that to my brother. He misses you."


    "And I miss him," he sighed out a smile, "Han Mo, you really are blind. Ah Shen already cares for you more than the others," Wang Li chuckled to himself as his mischievousness colored his words, "Never more than me. Keep fighting, cultivator. Ah Shen will always be mine."


    Laughing softly to himself, he saw a medium sized wooden box, similar to the one he left for his wife. Wang Li held it in his hands for a moment, before placing it down.


    Opening the lid, he saw a golden hair pin with a silver gem.


    "My dear wife, how you spoil me," he whispered with a smile.


    A letter was folded under the pin, so he slipped it out and read it.


    "My dearest husband-"


    Closing his silver eyes, he folded the letter back and placed it under his nose. He can smell his wife''s honey rose scent. Pressing a soft kiss to the note, he placed it gently aside. Reaching for the two small boxes, he opened on to find a golden butterfly. It fluttered its wings before flying to land against his ear.


    The sound of music entered his ears and he found himself relaxing. The notes were not perfect and there were pauses from time to time, but the sound of the flute brought back old memories. Once the music ended, he opened the next box. Another golden butterfly flew to land against his other ear.


    This one was the sound of the pipa strings being plucked.


    His silver eyes stared at the large scroll and unrolled it to read what his dear nephew wanted him to know.


    ==


    (Surface Realm)


    Ying Yue had just met with the Sect Leader in the East and was walking through the forest between East and South. He had not gotten the chance to check to see if the temple Sect Leader Zhi and Mo Chou built was still erected. Entering the rocky clearing, he looked around and saw the temple.


    Still up and still lighted.


    Walking to it, he expected it to be unkempt because of the Great Death. Many hated his husband and some do not wish to speak of him. He didn''t blame them, he understood. It still saddens him to think people did not know the truth.


    Shaking his head of his thoughts, he wondered who was caring for this temple for the Ghost King.


    "Hello?"


    There was a noise at the other side of the altar and he walked over, only to see a broom stick pointing at him. Blinking his golden eyes, he stared at the man holding it. The man suddenly dropped the broom stick and bent down to his knees.


    "Apologies, Heaven''s Chosen. I thought you were others."


    "What¡­ what is your name?" He whispered and the man with navy hair hesitated for a moment.


    "It is Feng Zhi."


    "Feng Zhi¡­" Ying Yue smiled and looked at his husband''s statue, "You''ve kept this temple lit?"


    The man stood up and nodded.


    "I only discovered it recently when I was in hiding. At first, I thought nothing of it, but then¡­ I just¡­ I don''t know. I just felt like the Ghost King could protect me. I didn''t have the chance to pray or have anything on me to purchase any. All I can do is keep it clean and people trying to defame it."


    "You are a good man, Feng Zhi," Ying Yue looked at the man with blue eyes and dark navy hair, "Wait here. I will return with items to pray."


    "Huh? Really?"


    "Yes."


    "Thank you, Heaven''s Chosen. Many thanks to you."


    Doing as he stated, Ying Yue went to the village and purchased the items he needed. When he returned he saw Feng Zhi kneeling on one of the pillows, staring at his husband. Smiling, he walked in and saw blue eyes lit up happily. They placed the items in their rightful places, placed the offerings, and burned the incense. Kneeled in prayer, Ying Yue closed his eyes.


    ''My beloved husband, Ah Li. I pray you are well, happy, and at peace. Please protect my family and yours, bless us with your beauty, your love, your smiles.''


    Ying Yue smiled and pictured his lover, his beautiful husband smiling back at him.

 Chapter 195 - Only You Can Touch Me

    When he opened them, he placed it in the bowl and stepped back to stare at his lover a little longer. Feng Zhi finished his prayer and went to stand beside him as they both stared up at his husband.


    "Why are the bad guys always so handsome?"


    "He is not a bad guy."


    "I know."


    "Do you?"


    Ying Yue turned to the man beside him.


    "If he was bad, he would have come here and kicked me out to live in the cold or punish me."


    "He wouldn''t."


    "Heaven''s Chosen, you are protecting the Ghost King. Should he not be your enemy?"


    "Never," he whispered and the look on the man''s face made a laughter escaped his lips.


    "Feng Zhi, do you have family?"


    "Just my father. He''s pretty strict and could careless that I am gone."


    "You can come stay at my school, Feng Zhi."


    "But," the navy haired man frowned slightly, "Who will care for this temple."


    "¡­"


    "I will stay."


    Ying Yue could not help the grin covering his face or the way his heart just bled happiness. He nodded and said he would visit when he could. Leaving Feng Zhi with his money bag, he went to the shack, their home, at the lake. Sitting on the flat roof, he settled down and watched the sun dip below the water. The sky darkened and the moon brightened above him, making his hair glow under the light.


    Pulling out the recent message from his lover, he made sure to send his energy into the insect, so it did not fly. Placing it against his ears, he smiled listening to his husband''s voice filter through his ears.


    "Ah Yue, I love you."


    Closing his golden eyes, he sighed wanting nothing more than his lover with him.


    "Soon, my husband, I will see you again."


    Ying Yue whispered into the night air and stared at the moon that once protected his husband now watched over him.


    ==


    The world was decorated in red and the prepped meals were ready to be cooked, fried, and baked in the morning. Bamboo shoots were filled with gunpowder for fireworks and banners flowed with the light autumn breeze.


    The moon witnessed it all.


    She witnessed one lone man waiting at the entrance for his lover as everyone slept. She witnessed the man in red dropped down from his blade. She witnessed them both embraced, kissed, reunited at last.


    "Ah Li," Ying Yue grinned as tears slipped down his eyes, "I have missed you my husband."


    "And I, beloved."


    Wang Li kissed him again and again like their lips would not pull apart. They quickly entered the school, enter their room, and rid their clothes so their bare skin touched. Fingers touches and trailed along warm skin, bringing blazing fire with it. Ying Yue'' body singed, bumped as if to connect itself to his husband.


    "Ah Li, make love to me, my love."


    An oiled up finger pushed into his hole and his breath stuttered. He moaned and shut his eyes, forgetting how it felt. Lips captured his and he opened his mouth to taste his lover. Another finger joined and his hips squirmed as whimpers escaped his lips. He heard the deep chuckle from his husband and he opened his eyes to watch the beauty of his lover.


    "This reminds me of the first time," Wang Li said softly as his fingers moved slowly inside him.


    "It, it had been a while my love."


    "Do you not touch yourself this whole time, beloved?"


    "No. I am yours, Ah Li. Only you can touch me."


    Another finger joined inside him and his breath hitched. Fingers pushed in as far as they could and paused there, making him feel full, but it was not enough. He licked his lips and stared into silver eyes that was staring at him intensely.


    "Ah Li?"


    "How long do we have until they wake, Ah Yue?"


    "Mm, they will wake earlier than before because of the festival. Maybe when the sky began to lighten?"


    Once he finished speaking, he groaned and his mouth stayed open. The fingers thrusted into him quickly, harder, and oh so, so good. His hard cock entered hot mouth and he gasped bucking into it. His fingers clutched the sheets and he came with his chest heaving and panting breaths. Fingers pulled out and Wang Li, finally, entered him.


    Groaning and arching his back, he wrapped his arms around his lover''s neck. They stared at one another, nose pressed together, as their moans mingled. Hips moved pushing the hard thick cock in and out, tugging his tight hole repeatedly. The bulb and shaft pressed against his prostate bringing him into ecstasy.


    "Ah, Ah, Ah Li," Ying Yue panted and whined with whimpers, "Please, inside. Mm, oh, hus¡­ husband!"


    Wang Li kissed those noises, ate it all to keep inside his stomach. He moved harder, thrusted deeper, and rolled his hips causing his lover to shoot cum against their stomachs. He sucked the moans and relished in the way his beautiful wife shivered. The tightness of his lover''s walls made his climax hit and he groaned and bucked in long trusts, filling the blonde with his sperm.


    He opened his silver eyes and pulled away from his wife''s lips. They both stared at one another with their foreheads pressed together. He turned them, still connected, so his Ying Yue was lying on him. The trembles continued to flow through Ying Yue''s skin and he smiled, running his fingers through soft platinum blonde hair and sweaty back.


    Ying Yue lifted off his chest to kiss him again and again. They made love until the sun rose and the sounds of footsteps could be heard. Running fingers along one another''s face as if to memorize it once more, Wang Li placed a kiss to the ring on Ying Yue''s finger, before placing a long kiss on red lips.


    Ying Yue watched Wang Li dressed and he sighed with a smile. This day brought happiness and sadness all at once, but¡­ Wang Li was here with him. He will make the most of it.


    His husband helped him off the bed and dressed him. Letting out a laugh, he kissed Wang Li once more and interlocked their fingers. He stared at his husband for a moment longer, before heading out of their room.


    The first person to see them was Nuying who shouted his husband''s name with a bright smile. Then, everyone else came quickly surrounding his lover, wanting answers to many questions. Wang Li let out a soft laugh and held up a bag full of candies for this day.


    "After dinner," Wang Li stated when the children- technically young adults, asked for some.


    "Come, let''s get everything ready for today!" Han Mo spoke up and looked at the man in red, "And welcome back, my king."


    Wang Li nodded with a smile and watched the students bowed to him, then went to join the brunette master. Fu Shen stared at him and he smiled at the boy. Opening his arms, the purple eyed man entered his space and pressed against his shoulder. He looked at the blue haired female and opened his other arm for her to join. A grin split across her face as she ran into his chest, jostling her brother.


    "We missed you so much Master Li! I''ve been practicing a lot on the flute and Li Yun had too. Can we play it for you?"


    "I''ve been practicing too," Fu Shen mumbled.


    "I would be honored to hear you all play today," Wang Li placed a kiss to their temples and pulled back to smile softly at them.


    "Awesome! Come Ah Shen, let''s tell big sister. She will be excited!"


    Wang Li turned to look at his beautiful wife and his entire body relaxed. He took a step to his lover, but suddenly felt the wind knock out of him. He groaned feeling the ground at his back and a heavy body on top of him. He let out a chuckle and cupped the back of the head full of pink hair.


    "Lan-er, if you wish to fight, warn me first."


    "I thought you were the feared strong Ghost King?" Xu Lan murmured with a frown, arms still wrapped tightly around him.


    "Hm, maybe you''ve gotten stronger than me, or maybe I am old," Wang Li sat them up, "Or maybe I gave you a chance to best me."


    "Pssh! I caught you off guard, Uncle Li. If I can do that, then I can definitely defeat you."


    "Challenge accepted, dear nephew."


    Black eyes sparkled and a grin stretched across the pinkette''s lips.


    "Then prepare yourself! I will do it again!"


    "Lan-er, telling him will only heighten his awareness, son."


    Xu Lan''s smile faltered and he stood up laughing to clear up what he said. Wang Li smirked and accepted the redhead''s offered hand. Nodding to Xu Ling, his silver eyes looked to see his gifted bracelet around his nephew''s wrist. His lips curled slyly and he made a surprised noise.


    "Lan-er! Behind you!"

 Chapter 196 - Youre It

    The pinkette''s black eyes widened and he quickly turned. Looking left and right, he didn''t see anything. Fingers quickly tickled his sides and he squeaked, squirming from the digits.


    "S¡­ Stop!" He laughed trying to get away.


    "Nope."


    "Fa¡­ father! H¡­ Help! Un¡­ uncle¡­!"


    Ying Yue laughed and went to his nephew''s front. He glanced at his smirking lover who paused his tickling behind the child, but fingers still hovered the sides of the pinkette. His golden eyes watched as his nephew caught his breath before his lips split into a grin.


    "Prepare yourself, Lan-er."


    "Huh?"


    Ying Yue joined Wang Li in tickling his nephew to tears, laughing tiredly on the ground. Xu Ling watched as they played and a small smile curled at his lips. His son was getting too serious lately and this¡­ hearing his son''s laughter again calmed his mind. Nuying joined his side, touching his bicep as they watched the writhing pink haired boy laughing and trying to tickle his uncles, but failed.


    Later, Wang Li and Ying Yue was holding hands as they sat listening to Li Yun, Li Chu, and Fu Shen play. A plate of mooncakes and sweets were plated on the Ghost King''s lap. Ying Yue couldn''t stop the smile on his face as he fed his husband. Silver eyes softened and mouth accepted the pastries pressed against thin lips.


    He accepted the offered sweet bun against his own lips, smiling and biting lightly. He preferred sour meals, but he will accept the sweets his lover gave him. He saw a sparkle in his lover''s silver eyes, twinkling with mischief. He shook his head laughing quietly, knowing what his husband was thinking.


    Pushing the mooncake into his lover''s mouth so words would not be whispered into his ears, he took advantage and leaned toward his husband.


    "I prefer you, my husband."


    Wang Li coughed and Ying Yue laughed rubbing his lover''s back. The Ghost King waved away the worries from the eyes aimed at him. Wiping his lips, the king narrowed his eyes with a sly smirk at his giggling wife. He leaned toward the platinum blonde and bit lightly on pretty earlobe.


    "My sneaky wife," he pulled back and placed a kiss on freckled cheek.


    He sighed seeing the bright grin on Ying Yue''s face and it reminded him of a time so long ago. Cupping the milky skin, he slid his thumb pad back and forth over the freckles. His lover touched the hand and his heart lived in the loving stare of his wife.


    "Uncle Li," their nephew spoke up and he blinked over to the pinkette.


    "Can you, can you play the song to me?"


    "What song?" "I wanna hear!" "Master Li know how to play too?"


    Wang Li nodded. He settled in front of everyone and smiled at their brightened faces.


    ''This was nice. This was family, a different kind, but a family nonetheless,'' he thought quietly.


    "Where is your instrument, Ah Li?" Ying Yue questioned, "Do you wish to use mine?"


    "Chou-er."


    His nephew''s eyes widened and looked toward the entrance to see the tanned man grinning. The navy haired man waved at them and the students perked up happily. Mo Chou placed the guqin before his king and went to stand beside Nuying.


    Closing his eyes, he began plucking the lullaby for his nephew.


    Ying Yue felt his heart melt and he had to sit down, or he would just faint from how beautiful his lover was. Black hair, unbraided, flowed effortlessly down his lover''s back and a soft smile on the lips. Silver eyes opened and his heart jumped as warmth spread across his entire being.


    ''My heart even wishes to be with you, my husband.''


    The music slowed until the last plucks entered their space. When Wang Li finished, Xu Lan was already running toward him. Quickly pushing the guqin away, he let out a sigh when his nephew wrapped around him tightly.


    "Lan-er," Xu Ling sighed shaking his head, "So clinging," the redhead mumbled.


    "Lan-er, you are losing," Wang Li said softly and the pinkette pulled back with furrowed brows.


    The Ghost King quirked a brow and the boy frowned. He cupped the pinkette''s cheeks and could feel the dark energy calm within his nephew. Smiling, he pinched pale cheeks and earned a squeaked whine.


    "Uncle Li!"


    "Your it."


    "I''m what?"


    Wang Li grinned and pushed the pinkette away and rushed to his wife. Grabbing his lover''s hand, he turned to see the young master stand with a confused look. Grinning, he looked to his students and addresses them.


    "Master Zhang is a monster. If he touches you, you will become one too. Last survivor will receive a wish granted."


    "Wait! I don''t even get a chance?!"


    Xu Lan frowned and Wang Li laughed.


    "You already received your gift, nephew. Do not be selfish."


    With that said, everyone ran off and avoided the pink master''s touch.


    The look on the pinkette master''s face made Ying Yue laughed and tugged his lover to run. They could hear Xu Lan trying to catch everyone, but he wouldn''t mind if he were caught. As long as his students and his family were enjoying themselves, that was what really mattered. He looked over at his husband to see a look he hadn''t seen in so long.


    Wang Li looked relaxed, peaceful, and young.


    ''So carefree,'' his thought provided with a pleased sigh.


    Silver eyes turned to him and he was pulled into his lover''s space, embraced in warmth and the smell of plum blossom. He was lifted and he felt the wind flow by him ruffling his sleeves. Laughing, they landed on the roof, hiding low. Lips pressed against his and Ying Yue welcomed the taste of his husband.


    "My husband, is Lan-er not going to find us?"


    "Look," Wang Li whispered and they both propped their head up to see the pinkette chasing after the students.


    Ying Yue saw everyone but Fu Shen was captured. Li Chu was cheering for his brother and the white haired boy smirked, doing his best to avoid the reaches. His golden eyes caught Mo Chou who was sitting against the wall with his eyes closed. The usual grin or smirk on the navy haired man''s face was not there.


    "Ah Li, Ah Chou¡­ he hadn''t been caught. Why does Ah Lan not just touch him?"


    "Mm, Ah Lan is upset with him and Ah Chou does not know what to do."


    Furrowing his brows, Ying Yue nodded and looked between his nephew and his husband''s loyal follower. Glancing at his lover, he kissed his husband deeply and laughed softly when he felt a light pat on his ass. Pulling back, he stared at his lover, enjoying being in his presence.


    "Are you feeling alright?"


    "I am stronger this day, my love, because of you."


    Ying Yue grinned and stood up, holding his hand out for his husband.


    "Will it be alright, my love, to give Ah Chou the reward?"


    "My wish was for me to be alone with you the rest of the day, my wife, but I agree."


    Ying Yue giggled red cheeked and bumped his lover with his shoulder. Jumping down, Fu Shen was still avoiding Master Zhang''s touch, but his king''s eyes caught his. A small shake of Master Li''s head told him to give up and he did.


    "Hah! Got you," Xu Lan grinned and turned to his uncles, "You two."


    He quickly ran to them and touched them as well. Laughing he placed his fists on his hips with his chest puffed, proud of himself. He looked at his uncle with excitement running through his heated blood.


    "Do I get the wish since I won?"


    "You lost, Ah Lan."


    "Uncle Li! I touched everyone!"


    "Mo Chou."


    His smile fell and he glanced over at the tanned man walking over to his Uncle Li. He watched as the Ghost King cupped the blue haired man''s face and he frowned. Silver eyes glanced at him and at the bracelet around his wrist. Lifting the bracelet, his frown deepened even more to see it was all black. Closing his eyes, he took a few deep breath.


    "What is your wish, Chou-er?"


    ''Cho-er?'' Xu Lan frowned.


    "Well, you don''t have long with Ah Yue, so I wish you both time alone."


    "No."


    Mo Chou''s brows shot up to his hairline and he tilted his head. His king cupped his shoulder and squeezed it softly. This look¡­ This look of his king with a spark in his silver eyes and a slow sly smirk only meant one thing.


    "How will I have time with my wife when everyone wishes to spend time with us?"


    "What are you planning¡­?" He whispered with a pout and his king grinned brightly.


    "Snow is waiting. Go find him. Bring everyone with you."


    "Snow?!" "Ah, where is he?" "I miss him."


    The students got excited and ran toward them wanting their questions answered. Wang Li quirked a brow at his child and Mo Chou laughed.

 Chapter 197 - I Imagined Your Hands

    "Come everyone! Let''s go find Snow. He is hiding somewhere in the village."


    "Yes!"


    Watching them leave, Ying Yue saw his nephew still before them.


    "Uncle Li¡­ Why do you call him Chou-er? Is he¡­ is he your son?"


    "If I say yes, will you treat him better?"


    Xu Lan frowned and crossed his arms before his chest. He looked down and tapped his toe into the ground. Ying Yue felt his lips curled seeing the same behavior from when he was a child. Looking over at Wang Li, they stared at one another for a moment before Ying Yue cupped his nephew''s shoulder.


    "Mo Chou is a good man, Ah Lan. He did much for us and he is doing his best to assist you. I know, I know he can annoy and upset you, but I know you care for him. Please, Lan-er, be kind to him."


    "Besides," Wang Li grinned and patted the child''s head, "He has a lot of experiences and can teach you many things, Lan-er."


    "Ugh! Fine. If, If I find Snow first, then I get my wish!"


    "Eh, how did you become so stubborn."


    "And spoiled."


    "I am right here," Xu Lan frowned and sighed dragging his feet out of the school. His father and his mother was waiting for him.


    "I am not stubborn and spoiled," he mumbled.


    The redhead sighed shaking his head and glanced at the couple smiling at one another, he held his lover''s hand and walked away.


    "Ah Li, did you plan this?" Ying Yue bit his lips and blinked slowly at his husband.


    "It was an opportunity and I took it."


    Wang Li kissed him so gently, so sweetly, so deliciously that he clutched the red robe tightly. Leaning closer and opening his mouth, he welcomed the wet tongue, the hot breath, the hands on his body. Ying Yue pulled back and smiled at his husband. Cupping his king''s cheek, he took in the loving look in silver eyes.


    "Hello."


    "Hello."


    His husband placed his forehead against his and they held each other under the burst of colors in the sky. A press of lips against his forehead and he was pulled to sit before the guqin. Wang Li sat behind him, hands on top of his as they began plucking the song he made for his lover.


    ''Our song,'' Ying Yue smiled and leaned against his lover with his golden eyes closed.


    By the time everyone returned, the sky was dark with littered of stars above them. A kiss to his cheek was felt before the warmth against his back pulled away. He looked at the offered hand of his husband and his mind returned to the day he was brought back to his husband.


    He was a nervous wreck thinking all those gossips and rumors were true about his king. Then the hand, this same one, reached for him and he took it. That was the day he lived again.


    Letting out a soft laugh, Ying Yue took it and greeted everyone. Snow strutted to him and nuzzled his offered hand. Ying Yue laughed and kissed his pet''s forehead.


    "Was it hard for you to find Snow?"


    "Snow was playing with us," Li Chu frowned and snow''s ears pulled back, "He kept running away."


    "Rawr¡­"


    "No food for you, Snow."


    "Rar?"


    Big blue eyes aimed at the purple eyes female and Li Chu crossed her arms. The big cat nuzzled and rubbed, before lying down before her with whimpers. Dropping her arms, she groaned and kneeled before the pet.


    "You are doing this on purpose, Snow, but Ah Hien loves you so much," Li Chu mumbled and felt a lick across her face.


    "Snow!"


    The big cat sat on her and licked again. Laughing, she called out to her brother for assistance. Once everyone was fine, they went to eat in the cafeteria.


    The day was peaceful to Ying Yue. This, this was how it should be. Everyone smiling, happy, and content proved to him that this was possible. This was balance.


    ''I wonder how much longer until they accept that the world is good. It is balanced. Wang Li should be here with me.''


    As the moon shined brighter in the sky and everyone returned to their sleeping quarters, Ying Yue smiled when his robe was removed. He did the same for his husband. Once they were bare, they laid in the bed moving their fingers along soft skin.


    Ying Yue just smiled softly, living in the attention of his husband. Fingers glided down his side and back up. He hummed quietly as his hand on his lover''s chest curled as he listened to the beating heart.


    "My love," Wang Li smiled softly at him, "I am alive. I am here."


    "I know," he said quietly and the fingers on him slid to his back.


    His king scooted closer to hold him, pressing his ear to listen to the beating organ. The thumps, the beats, the scent of his husband calmed his mind. Warm palm pressed to his shoulder blades and the kiss on his crown melted him. He closed his eyes and wished he could hold him forever. Always.


    However, he knew his lover would return to the Netherworld to heal and he would not see him for another full year.


    "Want to hear a story, Ah Yue?"


    "Is it real?"


    "Would I lie?"


    Ying Yue grinned and let out a soft laugh, before pulling back to kiss his husband. Nodding, he settled with them at the same eyesight. He saw the smile blossomed on his lover''s face and he couldn''t help himself, but to reach over and touched his king''s face.


    "Your master had chosen to be with Ye Wu and I am happy for them, but they are loud."


    "Loud?"


    "Hm, reminds me of you."


    "¡­"


    Wang Li smirked and Ying Yue connected the dots, as his face warmed up.


    "There was one night I heard them and I thought of you while I was on my throne. I was speaking with a group of mid-level demons, but my thoughts were on you and how much I miss you."


    Ying Yue softened his smile and cupped his king''s cheek as his other pillowed his head.


    "Once we were done, I was too aroused to focus on anything else. Images of you, your smile, your body, the sounds you make, and the way you looked in the throe of passion overwhelmed me. I imagined your hands and mouth on me," Wang Li whispered and the blonde bit his lips feeling his body hot with arousal.


    "Pang Xi caught me, Ah Yue, on my throne with my hands in my pants."


    "You¡­ you were caught touching¡­ touching yourself?" Ying Yue bit his grin and Wang Li pinched his cheek, earning a laugh.


    "His eyes went so wide, I thought it would fall off his head."


    "Did¡­ you stop?"


    "Of course. No one can see this but you, my dearest wife."


    Breath ghosted his face before they kissed. Ying Yue moved the hand on his lover''s chest down to wrap around his lover''s length. Teeth bit gently on his lips and he sighed happily. Stroking the already hardening length, he continued to kiss his husband. Wang Li''s hand palmed down his back to grope his ass, massaging it.


    "Mm, Ah Yue," his husband panted thrusting his hips into the blonde''s hold, "My Yue-er."


    Wet mouth sucked his tongue and tasted his cavern. He pulled his lips away and removed his touch, earning a groan from his lover. Laughing softly, he crawled to straddle his lover earning a pleased hum.


    "You wish for me to fill you, my love?"


    "Always, my husband."


    "Do you wish to fill me as well?"


    Ying Yue''s entire body flushed and he covered his face with his hands.


    "It still feels different¡­"


    "We do not have to, beloved. I enjoy every aspect of you."


    Wang Li sat up and pulled his hands away from his heated face. They kissed and he sighed, before a gasping moan escaped his lips. Large hand wrapped around his leaking cock, bringing his breathing to quicken and his hips to rock.


    "Mm, Ah, ah! Ah Li," he panted gripping his lover''s shoulder.


    "Come for me, Ah Yue. Then I will come in you."


    Wang Li spoke so deeply, roughly, like he needed water. The strokes picked up and he smashed his lips into his husband''s again, so his husband can taste the way he sounded. Fingers groped his nape and he shivered through his orgasm with his eyes rolled back closed. His hips continued to rock and his head was pushed back down to kiss Wang Li.


    A wet finger pushed into his awaiting hole and Ying Yue immediately pushed it in him fully. Licking his lips, he stared heavy lidded at his husband, such a beautiful man. Another entered and he bit his lips with his eyes shut for a moment, before joining the thrusts of those digits. Another entered, three totaled inside him stretching his ring of muscles.


    His body singed with the touch and the thought of his husband filling him.


    "I am ready, Ah Li."

 Chapter 198 - The Scars Along His Soul Deepened

    Wang Li smiled and kissed him again before entering his pulsing pucker. Groaning as his lover fill him, he rolled his hips as he went. His king groped his ass and the thrust told him his husband enjoyed being inside him as much as he enjoyed being filled. Biting his bottom lip, he began moving watching the way silver eyes dilated and closed. He twerked his hips and watched his husband''s parted lips as panting escaped that hot mouth.


    "Want to come again, my love," Wang Li breathed out thrusting faster into him.


    "I¡­ I don''t need to," Ying Yue gasped and moaned, "I just¡­ want you to feel good."


    Wang Li stopped suddenly and he whimpered before lips kissed it away. He felt the world tilt, until he felt the bed against his side. Still connected, Wang Li just stared at him with an intensity like a fox to a hen. He blinked his golden eyes slowly at his husband and wondered why they stopped.


    "Ah Li?"


    Wang Li smiled and cupped his face. Fingers glided over his skin so gently and he smiled, living in his husband''s warmth. He felt the throbbing cock inside him twitched and he gasped rolling his hips. Moaning, he closed his eyes and rocked his hips, but Wang Li pressed his ass still. He opened his golden eyes and panted softly before his king.


    "You."


    "Hm?"


    "I love you."


    "I love you too, Ah Li."


    Ying Yue kissed his lover and soon felt the thick cock spurt into his hole, touching his walls and filling him. He moaned and bit his lover''s lip as he pulled away. The hand on his ass smoothed up his goose pimpled skin and back down.


    "You¡­ came."


    "Mm."


    Wang Li smiled and kissed him again.


    "It isn''t just your body that I enjoy, Ah Yue. You, my love, give me so much pleasure."


    "Ah Li," he flushed and tucked his head away under his lover''s jaw, "You still know how to talk."


    Wang Li chuckled softly against him and he sighed happily with a smile.


    "And you my love, still make me crazy."


    Ying Yue dropped his smile and pulled his chest away from Wang Li to look into silver eyes.


    "Is it my fault?"


    "Yes."


    "I apolo-"


    "No. You are perfect and I cannot stop wanting you."


    Ying Yue covered his cheeks and grinned looking away. He kissed Wang Li over and over until he had to part with him once more. Each time, it was like his husband took his heart with him. Each time he would feel empty. Each time he would cry in his room at night.


    Each time he reminded himself that his husband would return.


    However, for the Ghost King, it was different.


    When Wang Li returned to the Netherworld, his body would crumple into the awaiting arms of Ye Wu. A wet cloth would be placed on his head by the green haired man and his tanned child would be sending his energy into him. Sweat dripped down his hair and down his nose as his body trembled with sickness.


    His entire being exuded darkness, covering what light was in the palace, the world below. It did not last very long like the first time, but he still bled. Swallowing and finding his strength once more, he sat up and stared blankly at the wall before him for a moment. He could hear the scars along his soul crack deeper and his mind misted.


    "My king," Pang Xi whispered softly and searched the man in red''s face, "Could you continue this? You have gotten worse."


    "Cause it''s too soon," Ye Wu frowned and swiped sweaty bangs away from pale skin.


    "Didn''t the Jade Emperor say my king could see his wife once a year?" Mo Chou questioned with furrowed brows, still sending whatever energy he had to his king. It belonged to him after all.


    Wang Li shut his silver eyes as his family fretted around him. He could hear words like a whisper in his ear from a voice he came to remember. He felt his lips curled and he opened them to shake his head.


    "I will be fine."


    "Of course, you will! Just like when you had that damn amulet? Like when you came up with that stupid plan? Like when I had to make you whole again? No! You are not fine. This curse will live on until you die for real. It clung to you tightly, Ah Li! You cannot escape it."


    The demon huffed out and pulled his locks, making him turned to look into ruby eyes.


    "Should you had just died¡­ this is torture, Ah Li."


    "Selfish," he whispered and smirked softly.


    "Are we all not being tortured, my dearest?"


    Wang Li''s smirk fell and he closed his eyes leaning against his good friend, his mentor, his brother.


    Agreeing to see Ying Yue every Autumn Festival was something he looked forward to always. Yet, his conversation with the Heavens prior already confirmed what he had thought. Sighing, he was healing in this realm, but it was too slow, too long that when he met with Ying Yue again, he barely healed anything.


    He honestly did not know how long he could keep it up.


    "I know you worry Ah Yue would be upset with you, my king. But he would choose you to heal above seeing you," Mo Chou said quietly.


    "I know."


    Pulling away, he turned to the tanned man and cupped his cheek.


    "The temple you and your brother built for me, Ah Chou, go to it. I would like some sweet buns."


    "Now? I just got back¡­"


    "Bathe first. Then come to my bed. I want to hold you one more time."


    Mo Chou flushed remembering when he was just a child sleeping beside the great powerful king. His small limbs wrapped around the elder and his snores echoing in the chamber. He would wake to see his king wiping his drools off his cheek and running fingers to tidy his navy strands.


    ''Wait¡­''


    "One more time?" Mo Chou questioned with furrowed brows and a slight frown.


    "I want you to stay in the Human realm. Do not return here."


    "What?" Both Mo Chou and Ye Wu said at the same time and blinked at one another.


    "I mean, I thought you like the kid," Ye Wu explained with a frown and crossed his arms.


    "I love Mo Chou."


    "Then, then why are you kicking me out?" Purple eyes watered as petite nose crinkled.


    "I need you to make sure they are ready."


    "Ah Li," Ye Wu started and Pang Xi sat beside the demon.


    "I am truly going to die this time. My next visit will be my death."


    "No!" Ye Wu shouted and grabbed onto the stupid no good selfish king and shook him, "You will not die!"


    Silver eyes softened and warm palms covered his fisted cold ones. That smile, that damn smile that always melted his heart for his king, was aimed at him. Shaking his head, he banged his forehead against Wang Li''s shoulder as if to clear his jumbled mind.


    "I thank you brother. You have always cared for me. I will never forget your love for me."


    "Stop talking you idiot! I will find a way to bring you back again! Your wife will not hesitate to join me in this, you know it!"


    Wang Li knew it was true. Closing his eyes, he pulled away and stood up, heading off to the bath. He called for Mo Chou to join him and though Ye Wu wanted to follow, Wang Li asked that Pang Xi accompany his brother to the far end of the Netherworld to check that end of the portal.


    There was nothing wrong with it, but he needed Ye Wu to clear his head and gave him time with Mo Chou. One last time.


    They undressed and he soaped up the blue hair to see shoulders shaking. He hummed a soft tune only to hear the sniffling from the tanned man. He held the child he raised in his bed to hear the soft sobs against his chest. His thoughts went to a time in the past where Mo Chou was still so young and cared for him so deeply.


    ["Done!" The young boy puffed his chest as he wiped his forehead with the back of his arm. The other hand held the broom and his purple eyes looked at his work he completed.


    The grounds was now cleared of blood, bodies, and looked as good as a child could do. Wang Li was impressed as he sat on the roof drinking ginger tea. Big purple eyes looked up at him with a grin and he nodded his acknowledgement. He watched the boy entered the kitchen only to join him on the roof later with a plate of rice and vegetables.


    It still surprised him to know a child could make meals.


    "My king, when will you teach me how to like, jump onto the roof like you? It isn''t easy climbing with a plate, you know."


    The boy said this, but he was still smiling as if he weren''t sitting before a killer, a murder, an uncontrollable evil. Wang Li still did not understand why he always attracted kind people like Mo Chou, Fu Shen, and¡­ Ying Yue. He closed his eyes for a moment, before reaching out to cupped the child''s face.


    "Soon."]

 Chapter 199 - I Am Proud Of You

    ["Thank you!"


    Wang Li let out a smile and touched the boy''s chest to give more of his power to him. They ate quietly and retired to their rooms, but many nights Mo Chou would knock on his door with eyes red rimmed and sniffling nose. Other times the boy wouldn''t even knock. He would hear soft footsteps near his bed before the child snuggled close to him, crying gently against his body.


    Every time, Wang Li would hold the boy tightly as if it was not him who caused the boy pain.


    It was not him that caused these nightmares.]


    "My king," Mo Chou whispered through his gasping cries.


    "Yes, Chou-er?"


    The arms around him tightened and he did the same.


    "Why won''t you let me stay, stay until a few days before you visit? Why can''t I stay?"


    The tanned boy''s body shook as another cry erupted out of his lips. Why did his king always, always choose to send him away to do duties, missions, and anything else. All he wanted was to have his king''s time like they did back then. A warm palm pressed the back of his head and he cried harder against safe arms that protected him from nightmares.


    "You will always be in my heart, Ah Chou, my child."


    Wang Li kissed the boy''s crown and pulled back the weeping face to kiss tanned forehead. He wiped the droplets of tears and felt his lips quirked seeing the snot. Only his dear Mo Chou looked ridiculously cute with snot on his face.


    "It is not that I don''t want you here, Chou-er. You are very special to me. I asked much of you, I apologize. I know you still do so for me and that is something I can never repay you."


    "B¡­ but?" Mo Chou sniffed and attempted to wipe his snot with his sleeves, but Wang Li already placed the red cloth to his face.


    Gently the silky cloth felt against his face and Mo Chou was reminded of all the times his king would care for him. This only brought another onslaught of tears and he gasped crying. Another kiss was pressed on his forehead and he did his best to capture his king''s face through blurry vision.


    "It is time you create a new family, Ah Chou. You are not a child anymore and I do not need to take care of you any longer. I am proud of you, very proud."


    Wang Li''s hold on his face shook lightly and Mo Chou felt his tears dried up. Why was his king''s hand trembling and-


    Forehead pressed against his.


    "I know you will be happy with Xu Lan."


    "What?"


    "Protect them for me, Ah Chou and¡­ convince your brother to join you."


    Mo Chou''s eyes widened slightly confused, but the soft laugh sounded against his face.


    "Ah Zhi has returned and is at that palace the two of you built for me. I will have gifts for you to bring for everyone."


    "Ah Yue¡­ would expect more¡­"


    "Do not worry, Ah Chou. I will handle it. Now, let us sleep. You may snore, Chou-er."


    "I don''t snore," he mumbled and tucked himself as close to his king as possible.


    "Of course," Wang Li smiled and closed his silver eyes, holding the child that gave him life again.


    ''Mo Chou. I pray for your happiness, your smiles to never leave, and your health.''


    ==


    Mo Chou arrived at the school to receive surprised stares. The students looked at the pouch he carried and their eyes lit up happily. He gave the gifts like his king had assigned and handed the last of the gifts to the platinum blonde. Golden eyes looked at the large box, much bigger than he had received, before looking at Mo Chou.


    Ying Yue had seen that look before: defeated, acceptance, and a pasted smile.


    "Ah Chou," He said softly and the boy shook his head with a smile.


    "Enjoy your gift, Ah Yue."


    Ying Yue nodded and went into his room for privacy and Mo Chou was glad for that. He did not want to see Heaven''s Chosen wrecked with tears. Swallowing the lump in his throat, he went to sit on the bench for a moment. Purple eyes staring up at the sky with his head tilted back, he rubbed the ring around his middle finger.


    ["Chou-er," Wang Li whispered softly as he continued to hold him tight before the portal.


    "Just a little longer, my king. Please."


    His king placed a kiss to his temple and pulled back. A silver blackened ring slipped through his finger and he blinked at it. He remembered finding it one day in his king''s room and asked about it. His king stated it was to strengthen one''s core, but the sacrifice was blood. He had seen Wang Li wore this when he first returned to see his king bloodied staring at the moon, but not after anymore.


    "A gift, my child. I love you."]


    Mo Chou''s eyes watered, but he shut the tears back down. The sound of footsteps neared him and he glanced over to see the pink haired man. Black eyes looked away and a frown graced pink lips before the man sat beside him. Mo Chou looked away and sighed.


    "Do you need something?"


    "How¡­ are you?"


    "Hm?"


    "Uncle Li said for me to¡­ to take care of you."


    Mo Chou stared at the ring on his finger, as his hands landed on his laps.


    "I will be fine Xu Lan. Do not worry about me."


    The tanned man stood up and stretched, reaching high above him. He turned to leave, but fingers wrapped around his wrist and he turned to the holder.


    "Where are you going?"


    "Eh? What is this Xu Lan? Did my king made you a babysitter to me?"


    "What if I say yes?"


    Mo Chou sighed and shook the fingers off him. Xu Lan''s frowned deepened and he searched the tanned man''s face. He knew something was wrong with the navy haired man. He wasn''t acting all flirty like he normally did and he had not called him any stupid nicknames like before either.


    "Then it is a baggage for you. I will be fine Xu Lan. I need to go. See you around."


    Quickly standing up, he grabbed the man''s wrist again to receive a tired glare.


    "I''m coming too."


    "Seriously."


    "Yes! Now, where are we going?"


    Mo Chou frowned and remembered he needed to grab sweet buns for his king. Heading to the kitchen with the pinkette following close behind, his eyes brightened seeing the plate of sweets. Reaching for it, Xu Lan quickly held his arm.


    "What are you doing? That is for the kids."


    "An offering for my king, your uncle."


    Xu Lan stared at him for a moment before calling out to his father when they left the cafeteria. The redheaded man stared at them with a frown and narrowed eyes, but Mo Chou ignored it. Letting out a sigh, he stepped onto his blade. He glanced at the hold and back at the pinkette, who followed his eyes. Quickly letting go, the master cleared his throat and stepped onto his own blade. Up they went to the temple for the Ghost King.


    The air was nice and crisped, with a hint of chill from the autumn breeze.


    He remembered when he first learned to ride his sword. His king held him and trained him, made sure he did not fall. He was doted on and everything his king did only carved a deeper hole for his love for him. Tightening his resolve, he will pray to his king while he could until¡­


    They arrived and they entered the lit temple.


    Mo Chou''s purple eyes softened seeing that everything looked the way it had so many centuries ago. He placed the plate of sweet buns on the altar and stared up at his king''s statue. He remembered arguing with his brother on how their king looked. He smiled and sighed, enjoying the sight before him.


    "Uncle Li¡­ he had a temple? Why didn''t anyone tell me?" Xu Lan frowned.


    "If you knew there was a temple for the Ghost King before you found out he was your uncle, would you had left it alone?"


    The pink haired master looked at him and then looked up at the marbled statue.


    "I probably would try to take it down¡­ but, I am sure Uncle Yue would tie me up and lecture me."


    Mo Chou let out a short laugh and looked at the pinkette who turned to stare at him.


    A man entered a few moments behind them with a broom in hand. Blue eyes searched their faces and Mo Chou could not believe his brother¡­ his brother was here.


    "Ah Zhi¡­" He said softly and the blue haired man narrowed his eyes suspiciously.


    "How do you know my name and who are you?" The man with blue eyes questioned and Mo Chou couldn''t help his heart softening.


    His brother, a bright light in his life, was alive again.

 Chapter 200 - If It Helps

    "The Ghost King sent me and this is Zhang Xu Lan, nephew of Heaven''s Chosen."


    Feng Zhi''s eyes widened and he bowed to them, but Mo Chou let out a quiet laugh holding the man up.


    "He sent me to give you this," Mo Chou said as he reached into his sleeve to hand a phoenix talisman to his brother, "This will protect you or anywhere you place it. He asked that you join the cultivation school."


    Feng Zhi ran his thumb across the etching and the golden bird. He held it in both hands and closed his eyes for a moment. He did not think his king was listening to him, but he was and that made him happy.


    "Then I wish to place it here at his temple. Once I leave, no one will protect this temple."


    Mo Chou nodded and they all prayed for their king before leaving the temple. Mo Chou helped Feng Zhi onto his blade and they rode back to the school where the platinum blonde stood waiting at the entrance. Feng Zhi was welcomed in with smiles and a meal, but Mo Chou could tell Ying Yue had been crying.


    Their eyes met and the smile wavered before the blonde turned away.


    "Who is he that Uncle Li thinks he should join us?" Xu Lan questioned quietly to him.


    "He was my brother in our past life."


    "Oh¡­"


    "Yeah¡­"


    "Ah Chou," the pinkette searched his face for a moment, "You''ve changed and Uncle Li is worried. He shouldn''t have to worry right? Aren''t you the annoying flirty fool that can''t stop grinning?"


    Xu Lan grinned at him and he did not reply. The grin fell off the pinkette''s pale face and a frown graced him, before a sigh. Mo Chou reached out to cup the face, earning wide surprised blinks.


    "People change, Xu Lan."


    "I know," the pinkette frowned feeling the thumb pad swiping back and forth over his cheek.


    "Do you expect me to pretend then?"


    "No, I rather you be honest."


    "Then this is how I feel."


    Black eyes searched his purple eyes and he pulled back his hand only to have it gripped in the pink haired master''s. Blinking at the hold, he looked back up to see the man frowning.


    "Then I will make you feel better."


    "Eh? How?"


    "What would help?"


    "Having sex."


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "Okay."


    Mo Chou''s brows went up to his hairline as his eyes widened and lips parted. Blinking quickly, was what Xu Lan just¡­ did he just say he would have sex with him? Shaking his head, he attempted to step away, but the hold on him tightened.


    "Ah Lan. It was a joke."


    "Where?"


    "What?"


    "Where do you want to, want to do it?"


    "You are serious?"


    "If it helps, then yes."


    "Xu Lan," Mo Chou shook his head with a soft smile, "You do not have to do this. My king''s worries will be no more. I can handle this. You don''t have to offer your body to me."


    "It''s not-!" The pinkette frowned and groaned wiping his face, "We all are worried. Even the students notice your change in attitude."


    "Ah¡­" Mo Chou sighed and nodded to himself, "Are you saying this offer is not to please my king, but your students."


    "It''s for everyone!"


    "Even you?"


    Xu Lan''s face flushed and he looked down with his ears burning. He heard the light chuckle, one he had not heard from Mo Chou in a long time. He glanced up and found their faces so close, they were breathing on one another.


    "Just a kiss is enough for me, Ah Lan. May I?"


    Swallowing down the built up of saliva down his throat, he nodded and lips touched his. Blinking his eyes, he stared at the tanned man''s closed eyes and he followed. Ah, closing his eyes made the kiss feel better and when Mo Chou held his head, tilting it to slot their lips, he felt as if his heart was willing to jump into the man''s hands.


    When Mo Chou pulled away, he leaned in to taste those lips again. He did not know how long he kissed Mo Chou or Mo Chou kissed him, but he enjoyed the fingers running through his curly pink locks. He enjoyed fingers pressed to his lower back, as they stepped closer so their chests were pressed together. His arms wrapped around Mo Chou and he heard the moan against his lips.


    "Zhang Xu Lan!"


    The pinkette quickly pulled away and was panting as he looked over to see his father''s narrowed eyes. Flushing deeply, he bowed, covering his face in the process.


    "Shameless like your uncle," Xu Ling groaned and glanced at the two, "Do so in your rooms, not out in the open. Save some face, son."


    "Y¡­ yes father. I apologize."


    The redhead shook his head as a headache was starting up again.


    Mo Chou heard the redheaded master walk away, but his eyes were on the pinkette now rubbing his head. Black eyes turned to him and his purple eyes moved down to the lips he had just tasted. A tickling of warmth entered his system and he found himself laughing. He laughed and laughed, causing the pinkette to grab him.


    "This is no dream?" Mo Chou questioned quietly once he caught his breath from the laughs.


    "Huh? Of course this isn''t."


    "Then may I kiss you once more with our tongue this time."


    "What?" Xi Lan flushed licking his lips and looking off to the side, "That sounds disgusting."


    Mo Chou laughed and moved in to run the tip of his nose down the man''s temple, across soft cheek, to place the tip to the pinkette''s.


    "Thank you, Ah Lan."


    He placed a kiss to the man''s cheek before making a pleased sound as he puffed his chest. He saw his brother crowded by the kids and he smiled.


    "Ah Chou."


    Glancing behind him, he saw the redness on Xu Lan deepened. His eyes softened and he licked his lips, happy to be given a taste, but he was not going to take advantage of the poor child. The pinkette walked over to him and went to his side.


    "We¡­ we can try tonight, if you want."


    "Try what?"


    "Did, did you forget already?!" Xu Lan narrowed his eyes, but the tip of his ears was so red it could compete with a tomato.


    "Are you certain? I may want to do more than that," Mo Chou admitted and the pinkette glanced at him before turning his face away from him.


    "If it makes you happy," he heard the mumble and Mo Chou grinned.


    "It would make me extremely happy, but Ah Lan. I will not take advantage of you. If you do not-"


    "Stop talking or I would change my mind."


    He watched the pinkette walk quickly away and his grin softened and his eyes trailed where the man went. Turning back to the blue eyed man, he joined in the circle to hear tales of his king from his brother''s lips like centuries before.


    ''My king¡­ so many things will change once they know.''


    ==


    In Heaven''s Chosen''s room, the platinum blonde felt hollow.


    Ying Yue stared at the wine on his table.


    Face blanked and eyes hollowed, his fingers clenched and unclenched on his knees. The butterfly was black, unlike the soft white it once was. The insect against his ear, relayed words his husband did not wish to tell him of all the times they met. He clenched his teeth and shut his eyes, hearing soft words that were knives against his heart.


    He was trying not to get too angry, too sad, too hurt because he did not want Wang Li to hurt, but¡­ but he DOES want his lover to hurt. He told him. He told Wang Li to be honest with him, no more lies, no more hiding from one another again. His husband promised. He promised!


    His body shook and heated tears fell down his cheeks. His hands landed on the table as he took a deep shaky breath. Shutting his eyes, he focused on the words whispered against his ear, reverberating through his chest to dip into his stomach. He parted his lips to exhale slowly.


    "Please forgive me, my love. I am selfish. When I return to you¡­ You may choose what you wish of me. I will do as you ask. I love you Ying Yue, my love, my beautiful wife."


    That was the end of the long message from his husband. He had been listening to it over and over since Mo Chou handed the gift to him. His golden eyes slid to the box to see the wedding veil that he gave to Ye Wu to revive Wang Li lying on the lid. The items inside were paintings, books, scrolls, fans, and perfumes. Underneath all that was the gift he was currently wearing.


    Red like blood and lining of golden plum blossoms and a golden phoenix brooch on the fold of the collar. His fingers ran over the robe, bigger than his size and it made him look thinner than he was. He didn''t care. He would never part with it.


    It smelt like Wang Li. It belongs to his lover. It was his husband''s.


    Now it was his.

 Chapter 201 - No One Is Fully Pure

    He grabbed the wine off the table and sighed. Putting it away, he sat on his bed and stared out at the moon. Rubbing his wedding band, Ying Yue placed the butterfly away and reached for the smaller wooden box. He opened it and laid down as his lover''s voice was not filled with defeat, sadness, and sorrow.


    "I love you, Wang Li. I pray the Jade Emperor visits before it is too late."


    Finishing his whisper, he closed his golden eyes, pushing his tears to slip down to wet the pillow cushioning him.


    ==


    Fu Shen had always been told he was observant and he believed it to be true. Mo Chou had been living with them here at the school for a while now. The navy haired man was usually hanging around Feng Zhi and would head to Master Zhang''s room at night. Master Zhang had been staring at the tanned man twenty times today and he sometimes looked flushed, as if he had been running. This had been happening quite often lately and he wondered what was happening between Master Zhang and Master Chou.


    His purple eyes glanced at his grandmaster and his lips curled downward.


    Grandmaster Yue had not been himself. Fu Shen had seen him tried, but there was something wrong. The platinum blonde looked lost as if his soul had floated away.


    ''Was this a new skill? A form of mediation, perhaps?''


    Whatever it was, Grandmaster Yue did not look well.


    "Ah Shen," the brunette master joined him on the bench, "Cleaning your pipa I see."


    "Master Mo," he nodded in greeting before his eyes went back to the blonde, "Is Grandmaster Yue sick?"


    Han Mo looked over at his brother and he knew something broke the blonde. His little brother only was this way whenever his little brother''s husband-


    He shook his head and cupped the white haired boy''s shoulder. Offering a smile, he shook his head, as if to tell the young man to not think too deeply of his little brother''s heartache. It would only bring the boy pain like it did to Xu Ling and him.


    The fate could be cruel.


    "He is. Something even the grandmaster could not fix or heal back."


    "It is our king, isn''t it?"


    His golden eyes blinked into purple ones and he tilted his head.


    "Why do you think so?"


    "The last time my king came, he looked different, moved differently, and he seemed to stare much more, much longer," Fu Shen said softly and paused in his cleaning, "He is dying."


    The hand on the boy''s shoulder tightened and Han Mo clenched his teeth. Fu Shen was too smart for his own good. Taking a deep breath, he wanted to lie to the boy. Tell him everything was going to be fine. The Ghost King was not dying all over again. He will return to his little brother and him. Yet, the look in those purple eyes were the same from back then, back when they first spoke in his guest room so many centuries ago.


    ["Fu Shen, I just want to talk. Please."


    The white haired boy sat down and poured them tea. Body rigid, but back straight like a regal knight. He stared at the burns and the pouty lips, before his golden eyes trailed across almost silver lashes bordering purple eyes.


    "What would you like to know?"


    ''Ah, what should I ask?''


    "Tell me how you arrived? My little brother had been here before, but he stated he had not seen you before."


    "My king saved me. When I entered, Heaven''s Chosen was not here."


    ''So vague, Ah Shen¡­''


    "Were you sick?"


    "I was dying."


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "Ookay¡­ Well, tell me about your king. Does he have a weakness?"


    "Why do you wish to know this?!"


    Fu Shen gripped the teacup so hard, Han Mo thought he would be feeling the ceramic break against his skull from the way Fu Shen was staring at him. Eyes dipped low like a lion protecting its child and lips pulled into a scowl. Holding up his hands like a surrender, he laughed nervously to rid the tension in the room.


    "I am only curious, Ah Shen. I will never harm our king."


    "Our king¡­" Purple eyes searched his for a moment, then the tension in the boy''s shoulders released slight.


    "Ah Shen," Han Mo sighed, "Ying Yue loves him. I want him to be happy but if our king ever hurts him, I would need to fight him. He is much stronger than I. Can you not tell me something? I am sure our king would be heartbroken to know he harmed my little brother."


    Fu Shen shut his eyes and drank the tea. He joined and waited as the candle flickered in the room. A sigh escaped the boy''s lips and purple eyes turned to look at him intently.


    "You promise not to harm my king."


    "Unless I have to, I promise."


    "My king," Fu Shen paused for a moment, "Does not have much weakness. He trains, he meditates, he is strong in body and mind."


    "And handsome."


    "Yes¡­" Fu Shen agreed and his eyes widened staring at the grinning brunette. His face warmed up and he cleared his throat before continuing.


    "The Ghost King''s weakness is his family. The people he loves. But keep this in mind, cultivator. I do not care you were chosen by the Heavens or that Heaven''s Chosen is your brother. I will fight beside my king and will protect him with my life."]


    "Ah Shen¡­"


    "He is. I can tell."


    Han Mo removed his touch and rubbed a temple with a sigh.


    "Have you told anyone?"


    "Yes."


    "Who?"


    "Master Chou."


    "What did he say?" Han Mo wondered glancing over at the navy haired man chatting beside Feng Zhi and his nephew.


    "It is true."


    Han Mo groaned covering his face. This was terrible. Now things would be worse again and this time, he was certain the Ghost King could not be revived and his poor little brother would break this time. They had already fought against fate three times, a fourth would be unimaginable.


    Fate would only retaliate a hundred folds.


    "Do you believe him?"


    "Yes."


    "Shen-er¡­"


    The white haired boy shook his head as he continued cleaning the instrument his king gifted him. Han Mo sat beside the boy for a moment longer as his eyes glanced at his brother staring blankly at the mountains behind the school.


    ''What are we going to do, Jade Emperor? Can we not save them any longer?''


    "Come to my room tonight, Ah Shen."


    "Master Mo-"


    "Ah Shen," Han Mo placed his hand on Fu Shen''s over the pipa, "Let us cry together," he whispered quietly and purple eyes watered as they stared into his golden ones.


    "I know you are hurting, Ah Shen. Let me hold you tonight."


    ==


    Ying Yue tried to call for the Jade Emperor as half a year passed, but the golden light never came. He was having trouble sleeping, tossing and turning, and reliving nightmares. He would wake in sweats and tears would fall off his eyes. Shutting his golden eyes, he exhaled shakily with furrowed brows as he turned to face his door.


    The Heavens were either considering for a long time, or they did not care at all.


    He was going to see Wang Li in half a year and he knew it would be their last. Sitting up, he touched the red robe he was donning and looked at the fluttering wings of the butterflies. The lone black one was surrounded by the white butterflies, reminding him of the yang- the light side to the yin.


    ''No one is fully pure,'' he thought staring at the black butterfly like the dot within the yang, ''We take some darkness with us.''


    Shutting his eyes and shaking his head, he tugged the gifted robe off his body. He called forth all the butterflies and tucked it all into the wooden boxes. He pulled off the paintings, grabbed the scrolls and books, the perfumes, the fans, everything that reminded him of his lover. Everything that his husband had made, his lover created, even the sheets on his bed and his infamous straw hat.


    He pushed everything into the box and pushed it to the corner of the room. He draped his robe to cover the box and sat on his mattress. His golden eyes looked around the room to see how bare it was and he found himself laughing with tears in his eyes. Covering his face, his body shook and his breath hitched. He shut the window to hide from the moon.


    He would not look at it any longer.


    Opening his palm, he created a butterfly and he closed his eyes. He spoke his message, the longest he ever made for Wang Li.


    "I hate you¡­" he started and the rest of the words tumbled out of his lips.


    ==


    Near the northern forest, he was reminded of the time they first met.


    Mo Chou grinned at the pinkette who shut his eyes tightly. His tanned fingers moved down the thick neck. Purple eyes watched as the pale skin powdered pink wherever he touched. He stared at the pink lips, wet from their earlier kissing and Mo Chou hummed licking his lips.


    "You are beautiful, Ah Lan."


    "Stop speaking," black eyes opened slightly as a pout graced him, but the blush was evident upon white cheeks.

 Chapter 202 - He Is Dying

    "But I am only speaking the truth, would you rather I say you are a despicable, disgusting demon?"


    "No."


    "Then I will tell you honestly," Mo Chou''s fingers trailed down slightly opened collar to trace the collarbones, "I wish to taste you fully. Make you feel the pleasure of the body, of the world. You, Lan-er, is more perfect than you even know."


    Cheeks reddened further and hands thumbed Mo Chou''s knees.


    "Why must you speak in such ways?" The pinkette lowered his head for a moment before sighing, "We should return."


    "Neh, my beautiful Ah Lan, we can touch freely here," Mo Chou whispered and leaned closer to lightly peck his lips.


    He leaned to kiss deeper and his innocent pinkette kissed back hesitantly. Mo Chou moved his hands lower to feel the chest and abdomen, before moving back up to squeeze clothed nipple. Xu Lan gasped and Mo Chou slid his tongue in to taste the young master. Tongue slowly touched his experimentally and he chuckled against the mouth.


    Tilting his head. He pushed deeper and sucked the tongue in his mouth, earning a groan from the pinkette. Hands on his knees moved to touch his waist, anchoring them to the ground below. When they pulled away, Mo Chou pecked the pink lips a few more times before stopping.


    "Still¡­ still weird," Xu Lan panted in a whisper and Mo Chou grinned.


    "Then we should do it more so it doesn''t feel weird."


    "If it makes you happy," the pinkette whispered.


    Mo Chou ran his fingers through curly pink locks and his eyes softened.


    "Just being with you, Ah Lan, makes me happy."


    "Then¡­ we don''t need to kiss?"


    "Although I love tasting your lips," Mo Chou sighed with a smile, "Spending time with you is enough."


    Zhang Xu Lan stared at the navy haired man for a moment, before cupping the side of Mo Chou''s head and slowly leaned in to kiss again. Moaning from the way their lips moved against one another, the blue haired man pressed closer to the pinkette. Their fingers held one another, slide along clothed skin, and brought gasps and light groans.


    Mo Chou can feel his arousal pooling and his hand slid down the chest to land on the young master''s thigh. He rubbed and his fingers itched to just wrap around the pinkette''s hardness, taste it, look at it, want it in him, and cumming with him inside Xu Lan. Groaning, he just made it even harder to deny his attraction for the pink haired man.


    Their mouths parted and Mo Chou hummed pleased when Xu Lan was tasting his mouth. However, his senses cleared for a second as he felt a presence near them. Quickly pulling away, he stood up and scowled. A demon tiger with a female ghost riding it screeched loudly. Birds in the trees flew away, frightened by the sound.


    He rushed in with his eyes narrowed and brows dipped. His purple eyes looked like it was glowing as he slashed, blocked, and attacked. Xu Lan joined him and fought the ghost. Normally one to finish a battle early, this one he knew would be harder. A mid-level demon out and about only meant one thing. His king was closer to death.


    That only made his blood boiled hotter.


    Once they killed the cat and the ghost, Mo Chou quickly grabbed Xu Lan and smashed his lips to his. A surprised yelp echoed, but he just kept kissing and kissing. Even when the pinkette turned away, he continued to kiss cheek, jawline, and neck. Fingers clutched his arms, not pushing him away and not pulling him closer.


    "We haven''t returned them back," Xu Lan glanced at their enemy.


    "Why send them back? They will only escape again to harm the innocent."


    Xu Lan pulled the navy haired man away to see a bland face staring at him. He had seen this face before and he wasn''t sure what happened for Mo Chou to feel like this. Taking a deep breath, he swallowed before speaking.


    "What aren''t you telling me."


    "It would only hurt you."


    "Ah Chou¡­ Is it Uncle Li?"


    "Yes¡­"


    "Tell me, please Ah Chou."


    "He is-"


    ==


    Panting and gasping of breaths were heard in the room. A soft whimper and gentle kisses exchanged with one another. Hips continued to move against one another and she clenched her walls as her back arched up. Her fingers clutched onto his lover''s back as she came with mouth sucking her breast. She rolled her hips with her mouth parted in a moan.


    Xu Ling pulled away from the breast and boxed his lover''s face with his arms, staring at the way pretty pink lashes fluttered. He moved faster, deeper, feeling himself ready to climax. Kissing Nuying, his hips stuttered and his throbbing cock shot out his cum into his lover. They panted against one another as they kissed slowly and gently.


    The door flew opened and Xu Ling groaned.


    "What is it, Lan-er?"


    There were no reply and he furrowed his brows. Pulling away from his wife who quickly grabbed the bedsheet to cover herself, he turned to see his son with tears streaming down his face. Golden eyes widened and he quickly moved out of the bed. Before he was able to wrap himself to look decent, his son had wrapped his arms around him, crying loudly.


    He felt his robe placed over his shoulders and he thanked his peach, who helped him into it.


    "Where is Uncle Yue?" His son hiccupped and cried.


    "He is visiting the sect leaders. What is it?"


    "Uncle Li," Xu Lan tried to breathe, "He is¡­ he is¡­"


    "What is it?"


    "He is¡­ DYING."


    Xu Lan cried and tucked himself into his father. Xu Ling''s golden eyes widened before he let out a deep sigh. Holding his son close, he shut his eyes and knew if that was true¡­


    ''Ying Yue will break, but the world will be at peace and the prophecy will be complete. Is that a risk the Heaven''s will take?''


    ==


    Ying Yue did not smile anymore. He had no energy to do so.


    He went to the shack, the cabin, the place his lover built for them by the lake...


    ¡­ and destroyed it.


    He broke the place he made love with his husband. He ripped the memories of joy and peace. He burned the fingerprints of their touches. Golden eyes stared blankly like what he was doing was not destroying any hold he had left on Wang Li. He felt nothing.


    Only emptiness.


    The temple for his husband was still erected, protected, and beautiful. He avoided it like a curse. He only went straight to the sect leaders, spoke with each of them on managing their sectors, spoke with the villagers, and then went straight to the school. There was no reason to pray for a man who broke him.


    Even if the man was his husband.


    Returning to the school grounds, he nodded to his students who greeted him, but they were acting differently. Their eyes looked glassy with tears and they bowed lowly to him. He glanced over at his brothers who seemed to be observing him, as if waiting for something. He looked over to the tanned man, his husband''s loyal follower and he thinned his lips.


    Pink hair, curly and bouncy, came to his view and he stared at his nephew. His brows furrowed seeing the redness around the eyes, nose, and cheeks. Exhaling slowly out of his lips, it made sense now. They knew Wang Li was dying.


    "Un¡­ Uncle Yu¡­ Yue," the pinkette hiccupped.


    "Stop."


    Black eyes widened and he walked by his nephew to the cafeteria. Eyes watched him as he went, but he continued as if nothing bothered him. He sat down at the table he usually occupied and was joined by his brothers. The students and his nephew did not enter and he knew it was due to his brothers wanting to speak with him alone.


    That was fine. He was fine.


    "Ah Yue," Han Mo started softly like the time when he was told he was the curse, and when he was told the man he was after was just in his dreams.


    His redheaded brother placed the bowl of soup in front of him. Thanking him, he ate slowly ignoring the worried stares from his siblings. When he was finished, he stared at them and his elder brother touched his shoulder gently. He looked over to Xu Ling to see furrowed brows and golden eyes staring at him with deep sorrow.


    "You do not need to worry. I am fine."


    "You are not."


    His eyes narrowed and the redhead sighed. Xu Ling glanced over at Han Mo and the brunette cleared his throat. When his little brother looked at him, Han Mo exhaled deeply.


    "Little brother. We all know¡­ he will die. Mo Chou did not deny it. We know it will hurt you. It is hurting you now. Do you think he is feigning his death once more?"


    "No. This is the end. He will die. The world will be at total peace just like what the Heavens wanted. Fate cannot be escaped."


    Ying Yue stated coldly with a straight face that caused both brothers'' eyes to widen.


    "You are giving up?"

 Chapter 203 - You Think Too Highly Of Me

    "Should you not be happy, brothers? I will not abandon my mission. I will not run to him. I will not ruin everything again."


    "Brother," Xu Ling frowned searching his brother''s face, "What changed?"


    "Nothing. It always ends this way, hasn''t it? Nothing ever changes."


    "Ah Yue, you are not yourself. Everyone is worried and-"


    "I am fine," Ying Yue stood up from his seat and stared out the window for a moment, "I will close this school."


    "What?" Both brothers stood up as well with their brows furrowed.


    "The children should be with their families. There would be no more use for cultivators once peace is here."


    Ying Yue paused at the door and turned to his brothers. He looked away toward the ground for a few breaths, before closing his eyes.


    "Had the Jade Emperor visited either one of you?"


    "No. Why, Ah Yue?"


    Ying Yue clenched his teeth and nodded before heading to his room to hide from worried, sad, pitied eyes aimed at him. Once the door to his room shut, he stared at the golden butterfly on his pillow. Not bothering to even lit the candles, the room was dark but it did not bother him. He removed his outer robe and picked up the butterfly to continue his message to the man he loved.


    ==


    Ye Wu shook his head as he held tighter. His green haired lover sighed and reached to pry his arms away, but he refused and wrapped his legs to hold on even tighter. Pang Xi tried to pry long fingers off, but the demon clutched tighter. A groan was heard and Ye Wu loosened his hold. Silver eyes lifted to look at him and the head demon sucked in his bottom lip.


    His eyes watered again slipping down already wet tear streaks, so he gripped to hold him just a little longer. He wasn''t ready to part with his king, his brother. He needed him here! Wang Li should just stay here and not leave! He can''t¡­ He can''t-


    "It is time brother."


    "No!"


    "Ye Wu, look at me," hands cupped his face, "You are no longer lonely. You can create a new family with Pang Xi, take care of this world with Pang Xi at your side like you''ve always wanted."


    Wang Li smiled and pressed a kiss to the demon''s forehead and sighed.


    "You are loved, Ah Wu. I am happy for you, as your king, as your brother, as your friend."


    The red eyed demon tried to clutch onto him again, but Pang Xi quickly stepped in between, separating them. Ye Wu cried out, hitting his lover''s back and then scratching at arms around him. Silver eyes glanced at pale golden ones to see sorrow within those eyes.


    "Take care of him, Ah Xi."


    "Yes, my king."


    Wang Li stared at the crying demon reaching for him. His own eyes watered, but he turned away and left quickly out of the portal. Leaning against the wall for a moment, he tried to capture his breath as his heart was beating uncontrollably. He stayed still, feeling the cool breeze ran through his hair and robe.


    Pushing off the wall, he rode his blade to the school and walked through the entrance to see all eyes turned to him. Normally loud excitement and cheers welcomed him, but all he gained was sad eyes and quietness. Mo Chou walked over to him and arms wrapped around him. Wang Li smiled and held his child for the last time.


    "They all know, my king," Mo Chou whispered, "My king¡­ Ah Yue-"


    "Uncle Li," Xu Lan had joined in the hug and Mo Chou squeezed tighter before removing himself. The pinkette cried softly against him and he press a kiss to the child''s crown. The other students came to hug him as well.


    Li Yun and Lady Nuying were holding buckets of white lotus, roses, and many varieties of flowers. Their eyes were red rimmed and when they saw him, their face scrunched up as tears slipped down their eyes. Even Han Mo and Xu Ling was staring at him with sorrow. He saw Feng Zhi staring at him and saw blue eyes blinked before the man bowed to him. He smiled and his eyes finally found his wife, his beautiful wife staring at him with a look that he had not seen on such perfect face before.


    Pulling his nephew off him, Wang Li placed a kiss to the child''s forehead before walking over to his wife. There was something off with the platinum blonde. He didn''t feel any dark energy in his lover and it only made him question what was happening more. Just a few steps away, he would be able to hold his lover again and-


    "Stop."


    He did.


    He watched as fingers uncurled from his lover''s fist and a golden butterfly flew to him. His silver eyes glanced at the insect before staring at his wife.


    "Ah Yue¡­" he spoke softly to see plump lips thinned.


    ''He is angry with me.''


    "I hate you," the butterfly relayed against his ear and Wang Li felt his heart ache.


    "You should have told me, but you chose not to again. You knew you were not healing, but you never told me, still hiding secrets from me. You''ve never truly been honest with me. Are you going to tell me that you came to see me, even when you are dying, for me?! You are selfish Wang Li. I hate you. My love for you is dead. I can never forgive you. I sacrificed myself for you. I killed you. Now, I will have nothing to do with you. Return to the Netherworld. Stay away from here. You will die soon and I do not want to witness it. Leave me be, Ghost King. Do not return."


    Wang Li shut his eyes and clenched his fists. Was his wife serious with his words? Did Ying Yue truly gave up on their love? Did his wife hate him that much?


    ''Why shouldn''t he? It is your fault. All that he said was true.''


    Exhaling, his shoulders dropped and he looked at his wife.


    "Tell me not through this. Tell me you truly wish for me to return and die without you by my side. Tell me you no longer love me, Ah Yue. I must hear it now and not through your butterfly."


    "I hate you," Ying Yue whispered and silver eyes widened before his nose twitched, "I don''t want you here. I will not be the cause of your death once more."


    "You will always be the cause!" Wang Li shouted feeling his heart breaking, "Do you not understand, Ying Yue. You were always going to be the one to kill me. It is prophesized!"


    "I do not care!" Ying Yue cried out, "I never asked for this! Go, get out of this realm and returned to the Netherworld! Go die where you should."


    Wang Li felt all the anger dripped off him and his mind was in a jumble. His sweet wife was no longer kind. Had he taken advantage of Ying Yue and this was his punishment? Had he truly corrupted everything good in his lover? He did feel the anger from Ying Yue, but not enough to sway him. That was it.


    Before he would feel all sorts of emotions from Ying Yue, but now¡­ It was as if he was standing on top of the mountain in just his thin robe.


    "Will you not hold me one last time, my love?"


    Wang Li whispered softly and Ying Yue stared at him. Golden eyes closed and he watched as his wife turned away from him and he fisted his hands and walked away. He walked out of the school and left like Ying Yue wanted him too. He went to the shack near the lake to find it gone.


    Everything was gone. He fell to his knees and cried with the golden butterfly clinging to his shoulder.


    At the palace, Ying Yue waited until he could no longer feel his husband before dropping to his knees crying. He cried and cried, crumpling into whatever arms held him. He held on even when he was done crying staring at nothing but the death of his relationship, and soon... his husband.


    "Why do you not want him here?" Mo Chou questioned with a frown standing over him.


    "Don''t be angry at my uncle," Xu Lan stood blocking Mo Chou from him.


    "He is dying! My king will die today and all he wanted was to spend time with us and mostly his wife! But now he is gone and is not going back to the Netherworld. He cannot return. It will take too much out of him. But you, Ying Yue, told him to leave. He will die alone. Is that what you want?! He would never want that for you. How could you treat him so poorly?"


    "Ah Chou. Stop screaming at my uncle! He is heartbroken! He¡­ He did what he thinks is best, okay? If¡­ If telling Uncle Li to leave is to help them both, then I agree with his decision. Uncle Yue would never act selfishly."


    "You think too highly of me, Lan-er," Ying Yue laughed and stood up with a sway, "I hate him. He used me, so I told him to leave. I destroyed whatever home we made, got rid of all the things that reminded me of him. The only thing left is you, Mo Chou. I will kill you."


    Xu Lan quickly turned to now protect the tanned man. His blonde uncle was smiling coldly and the sword appeared in Heaven''s Chosen''s hand.

 Chapter 204 - You Figured It All Out

    "Grandmaster Yue! What are you doing?"


    "You are all dismissed. Return to your homes. No one is welcomed here anymore."


    "What?" "Why would he say that?" "What is happening?" "We are kicked out?"


    "Get your stuff and get out!"


    Ying Yue shouted and everyone stared at him with eyes wide and wavery lips. His brothers stepped to him, but he scowled and rushed forward pushing his nephew to the side. Mo Chou blocked, but he was sliding backwards. The tanned man was not as strong as the platinum blonde, but he would fight for his king. The Ghost King did not deserve to be thrown away like how Heaven''s Chosen treated him.


    Wang Li had been waiting for this day and Ying Yue did not care!


    Letting out a growl, he swung his sword and they parted for a brief moment.


    "If any of you get involved, I will kill you."


    "Uncle Yue! Please stop!"


    Xu Lan rushed in only to have his legs fall from under him as the golden strings wrapped around his ankles. He watched as Mo Chou held his own, but his uncle was quick and deadly. He had never seen this side of his uncle and it was terrifying more than it was exciting. It didn''t fit his kind uncle. It didn''t fit the man who smiled gently, soothed his pain, and was a brightness that they loved.


    ''Who was this person?!''


    "Ugh!" Mo Chou fell on his ass and leaned up to only feel the point of the blade to his neck.


    His purple eyes looked into cold golden ones.


    "Goodbye, Mo Chou."


    Ying Yue swung his sword, ready to rid the only thing left of Wang Li in the Human realm, but a golden light appeared and he stopped his movement. Pulling away, he looked over at the figure with narrowed eyes. He heard bodies fall gently to the ground and glanced to see everyone had fallen asleep except his brothers and himself.


    "You are not to kill the innocent, Heaven''s Chosen."


    "And yet I am."


    "This boy-"


    "Wang Li," Ying Yue stated with narrowed eyes, "I am to kill him again. He is dying because of me once more. Fix it."


    "¡­"


    "I will find a way to bring him back and do this all again even if my heart dies each time. I have already told you. I will not part with him again. If anything, I shall kill myself to be with him in the Netherworld."


    "Ah Yue!" Han Mo looked at him incredulously, "That would tip the balance-"


    "Yes."


    "You said you would no longer be selfish," Xu Ling said quietly with a tilt of his head.


    "I lied."


    "You do not lie¡­"


    "I do now."


    Ying Yue stated coldly and waited for the golden light to speak.


    ''After all these damn time, he finally showed up when I was about to kill.''


    "The Ghost King is too weak to return to the Netherworld. He will die here in this realm. This is a problem," the golden light stated.


    "His darkness, the evil in him will break the portal and every demon confide or hiding will know. The surface world will fall and the balance will be no more. Your prophecy will fail."


    Ying Yue stated and the golden light froze and his brothers, each on either side of him, did the same.


    "You¡­ planned this?" Han Mo questioned like a whisper.


    Ying Yue did not reply, only waited to see what the Jade Emperor would do to get out of this predicament. There were very little the Heavens could do now to avoid this. This was their doing, their mess, and he was tired of carrying their burden.


    "What do you want."


    "For this prophecy to be gone so my husband may be with me."


    "Even if the prophecy is lifted, he will still die. His soul is dying."


    "That is a problem, isn''t it?"


    "Speak clearly child!"


    "Heal his soul and the prophecy will still be there. He dies and the world will fall."


    "Then what-"


    "Bring him away from here. Away from this world that only chained him down. Let him be free."


    Ying Yue finished softly and steadied his heart, waiting for a reply from the golden light. The air was still and he just heard the beating of his own heart. He was waiting for what he knew to be true, but he needed to hear it from the Heavens.


    "You will die as well."


    "What?" Xu Ling frowned, "What is the meaning of this? The prophecy stated for the Ghost King''s death! Why would it lead to my brother''s death as well?"


    Ying Yue let out a laugh and covered his eyes for a moment. He knew it. There was no way to sever their tie from one another. His husband would forever be his.


    "When I sacrificed myself, thinking it would stop the prophecy, I only saw him when I closed my eyes. It was no dream, was it, Jade Emperor. It was his soul that I carried with me."


    The golden light did not reply.


    "When I returned to my body and returned to Wang Li, he was whole again. All those times I was away, he must have been suffering and you did nothing. You wanted him to be the way he was, to be the Ghost King. A true evil that the world will remember and whisper to their children. But I, like all the many times, was changing him again. He was not evil like he once was, and that was not what you all wanted.


    You made him lose control again. You pushed us apart and when I killed him, none of you knew he would return to me. Did you think my husband did not know of our connection? Of what his death would do to me?"


    "No matter! He is dying now!"


    "I know."


    "You will die here, but you wish for the Ghost King to leave this world."


    "Both of our death would end this hold upon us, Jade Emperor. The world does not need me or Wang Li. Please, let him reborn away from here. Live a life free of a prophecy that wish for his death. Jade Emperor, are we all not tired? My brothers, the students, they are cultivators. They will protect this world if Ye Wu were to send demons to this realm. It is time we die and end the prophecy."


    "Ah Yue¡­"


    "I apologize for not telling you both, but the Heavens left me no choice."


    A quietness fell upon them and he heard the deep sigh from the golden light.


    "Go to him. He is-"


    "I know where he is. Please bless us, my emperor, Leader of the Light and Heaven."


    Ying Yue bowed and when the light faded, he felt hands shook him. Explaining to his brothers as the others wake, he explained he had gifts for everyone and he did want the students to return home to be with those they love. He hugged his brothers tightly, before placing a kiss on his nephew''s forehead, stirring him awake.


    Ying Yue left flying on his blade as he watched his pupils and family below with tears in his eyes. The decision he made was selfish but riding the curse of a prophecy was needed.


    He went to the lake where his lover was waiting. When Wang Li saw him, the man in red stood up and he rushed into his arms. Taking a deep breath, he cried softly as they sat before the lake and moon. Legs dangled over the edge to soak into the cold water, they wrapped arms around one another.


    "I''m sorry."


    "You were a great actor, my love."


    "I had to make sure."


    "I know. I am glad I did not crush your butterfly."


    "You¡­ you were?"


    Wang Li cupped his face and kissed him gently. They kissed for a while, just lips pressed to one another, before tongue licked for entrance. Like two expert dancers, they moved effortlessly in tuned. Finally pulling away, Wang Li placed their foreheads to one another.


    "I was upset and heartbroken¡­ Did you destroy my gifts to you?"


    "I wanted to, but¡­ I couldn''t. I had to gather it all to hide away or else I could not go through with this."


    "You are more intelligent than anyone believed, my wife. I did not tell you anything, yet you figured it all out."


    "I was angry with you for not telling me, Ah Li. That was no lie, but I''ve always known that somehow we would be together again even in death. We are connected in many ways. When you said... when you said I hold your heart, you truly meant it."


    Ying Yue laughed softly and kissed his husband again. Lying down on the grass, he placed a palm on Wang Li''s chest and his husband held it in place. They kissed again and he held his lover tightly to him.


    "Were you going to return to me when... you die?" Ying Yue questioned softly.


    "No one can keep me away from you, my love. Even if it takes a millennia this time, I will find my way home."


    Ying Yue smiled adorningly and kissed Wang Li again and again.


    "Are you certain, my wife. I would rather you not die with me," Wang Li whispered and stared at him so deeply, he felt the stare in his heart.


    "I am certain," he nodded, "That we will find one another again."


    His husband smiled and he mirrored it. They kissed again, memorizing their tongues, their breaths, their touches along their bodies. They pressed close to one another, as if they could merge as one in the next life.


    "We will die together then. Is that not romantic, Ah Yue?"


    "Like Romeo and Juliet."


    "Who?"


    "Nothing," Ying Yue smiled and closed his eyes.


    ''This time, Wang Li, you will be free. I pray you find love where you are.''


    He cried softly and they kissed again, mixing their tears as they tasted the saltiness. Fingers danced against one another''s faces and legs tangled along the other. Wang Li''s breath slowed and his eyes blinked slowly. Smiling at his husband, he kissed the ring on his lover''s finger.


    "I love you, Ah Li. May you find peace and love."

 Chapter 205 - It Is Done

    "Anywhere you are," Wang Li smiled breathlessly, "Ah Yue, is where my life will be."


    Ying Yue kissed him again until Wang Li stopped breathing. Darkness spread into the air and he held his lover closer but pulled away when he felt a presence behind him. He could see a golden light at the corner of his eyes before he felt the golden sword pierce through his back.


    Eyes widened and he glanced at the blade holding no blood.


    Footsteps moved around him to face his kneeled form. The golden light appeared and he tried to speak, but he was unable to. He did not feel pain, he did not feel fear. He felt nothing.


    "Chosen One. We have come to a decision," a hand touched his head and he blinked at the light, "You are no longer needed in this world."


    The Jade Emperor pulled the sword out of the child and watched as the golden energy of Heavens cleared the air of the negative darkness. Ying Yue''s eyes fell shut and he landed against his husband below him. The one of Heaven looked at the two chosen and held his hand out over their bodies. Their soul essence turned into golden dust on his palm. He lifted his hand and each bundle flew up into the sky.


    The Heavens agreed that their involvement had only hurt these two in the end for so many centuries. They would learn and do better. Glancing at the bundles that disappeared into the sky, he smiled.


    "May you be at peace now, my children. A new life with no memories of the past. No involvement of the Heavens. I wonder, will you two meet again?"


    The Jade Emperor stayed by the lake for a moment longer as he listened to a sweet melody from the wind, before appearing before the other chosen. The redhead and the brunette were in the Chosen One''s room staring at the box in the corner. They turned to him and bowed.


    "It is done."


    "They''re both really gone¡­ for good this time," Han Mo whispered as his eyes watered and he shut them, taking a deep breath.


    "Will they be together, Jade Emperor. Are you certain?" Xu Ling questioned softly and cupped his brother''s shoulder.


    "His wish for the first chosen to leave this world could not be fulfilled, but they will have no memories of their past, no hold on them. If they would be together, I do not know. We will no longer interfere with their lives."


    Both brothers sighed deeply as their shoulders dropped.


    "The portal is broken."


    "¡­"


    ".."


    "You want someone to maintain it," Xu Ling stated and frowned crossing his arms, "Demons will be escaping soon and they can sense there is no more Ghost King or Heaven''s Chosen."


    "Don''t tell me you want us to hold those title¡­"


    "No brother, he asks for my son."


    "Lan-er?!"


    "Zhang Xu Lan holds both Heaven and Demon blood. He will hold the balance. We will not interfere unless he had made a grave error. Mo Chou will be dead soon with the Ghost King''s passing. His very life is from the Ghost King''s power."


    "Why are you mentioning Mo Chou?" Xu Ling questioned crossing his arms.


    "We will cleanse his soul so he may live."


    Xu Ling shut his eyes and his frown deepened. They finally were able to hand the gifts Ying Yue wanted to give and walked students back to their family. The only ones still at the school was Mo Chou, Feng Zhi, Han Mo, his son, his lover, and himself. This decision was binding and would be a great sacrifice for Xu Lan. The boy had watched both his uncle failed in their duties.


    Would his son be ready to handle it on his own for both worlds?


    Han Mo and Xu Ling quickly ran outside when they heard the scream.


    "Mo Chou!" Feng Zhi cried aloud.


    "Ah Chou! What is wrong? Wake up! Wake up! Don''t leave me! Don''t leave me too!"


    Xu Lan cried shaking the navy haired man, but his friend was not waking up.


    ''Why wasn''t he waking up!''


    "I can''t believe this¡­ How could he just die so suddenly?!" Feng Zhi shook his head and covered his face.


    Xu Lan held Mo Chou close to his chest as he cried loudly. A golden light surrounded him and he looked up to see someone.


    "Zhang Xu Lan, son of a chosen of the Heavens and a low-level demon. I offer you an arrangement. Be the one to bring balance and I will revive your lover."


    "Yes."


    "Lan-er, think before you-"


    "I understand. Bring him back now! Please!"


    A finger reached out and touched his forehead, the mark of Heaven etched itself onto his skin. It felt itchy and burned slightly, but then there was an overwhelming calmness. Black eyes watched the golden touch land on Mo Chou''s chest for a moment before pulling away. Xu Lan stared and stared and waited for anything, but nothing was happening.


    "It isn''t working! You lied! How could you-"


    The body he held convulsed before a large gasp was heard. The blue haired man panted before his breath slowed to an even one. Brown eyes blinked at him and Xu Lan stared at how warm they were.


    "Ah Lan?" Mo Chou whispered and he grinned pulling him into a tight hug.


    "Ah Lan! What have you done!"


    The blue haired man pulled away and he saw wide brown eyes stared at the mark on his forehead.


    "It will be alright, Ah Chou. I have everyone to help me, even you, right? Please say yes¡­"


    "I cannot believe you¡­" Mo Chou whispered before glaring at the golden light, "Jade Emperor! Was this your endgame?! Was this what you wanted! You all keep using people below you like a pawn piece! First my king, then Ah Yue, now you want to use Ah Lan?! I won''t let you! Break the contract, Ah Lan! Do it!"


    "NO!" the pinkette shook his head, "You will die!"


    "I know," Mo Chou placed his forehead to his, "You do not understand the burden you must carry. It pained both of them, and now you will feel it 2 folds. You are the only one with the power. They had each other, but you have no one."


    "I have you."


    "I have no more power. It is gone. I cannot help you."


    "Then be here, with me. Be by my side and I know I can do it. You know the Netherworld and my father and uncle know of the Heavens. Please¡­ Ah Chou¡­ I will do whatever you want, but not let you go. I can''t. Please."


    The pinkette cried and held Mo Chou tightly and the navy haired man shut his eyes. He pulled away and lifted the boy''s wrist to stare at the bracelet. Gold and black swirled, unable to decide the status of the wearer.


    "I broke you."


    Mo Chou''s face was cupped and he felt lips on his. Usually the one to wait to be initiated into a kiss, Xu Lan felt emboldened to do it now. Mo Chou¡­ Uncle Li said to take care of him and Uncle Yue said to find happiness and love. Mo Chou¡­ Mo Chou¡­


    The navy haired man with brown eyes pulled back with parted wet lips and heavy lidded eyes.


    "How can I leave when you kiss me like that," Mo Chou mumbled and he grinned kissing him again and again.


    The golden light faded from behind his lids and he sighed against the tongue stroking his. He deepened the kiss and used all the skill Mo Chou taught him. When he pulled back, they were panting and he saw the tanned cheeks glowed red.


    "Keep kissing me like that and I will suck your cock."


    "What?" He flushed with his ears red, "That¡­ that is gross."


    Mo Chou laughed and saw his brother stirring awake. He looked back at the mark and ran his finger over it, hoping to wipe it away. He stared at the pinkette, searching to only see resolve. This decision was not simple and for Xu Lan to¡­ for him of all people¡­


    "I am only human now, Ah Lan. I will not live long like you do."


    "I know¡­"


    "Selfish child," he murmured but his eyes watched the pink haired master fondly.


    Footsteps neared and the groan from his brother was louder. Mo Chou helped Feng Zhi up and saw Xu Lan''s family step before them. They all stood and the pinkette sighed.


    "I know what it means to wear this mark. Uncle Li had explained it already."


    "What, my king¡­?"


    "He said the mark him and Uncle Yue wore was binding to the Heavens. There was no way to escape the crutch. He had tried for so many centuries, but it was something he did not choose. He said if he was never chosen, then Uncle Yue would have less burden to carry.


    The roles would not split and Uncle Yue would not have to worry about harming him. He would just focus on his task and Uncle Li would be able to assist him, be beside him with no harm.


    So, I chose. I am the only one, but I am not alone. I have all of you to help me."


    Xu Lan finished and he saw his father crying and his eyes widened.


    ''Did... Did I make him cry?!''

 Chapter 206 - Your Uncles Would Be Proud

    Zhang Xu Lan had rarely ever seen his father crying. Actually, he''d never witnessed any. However, to see his strong father shedding tears because of him? His eyes widened and he stepped toward the redhead, worried he said something wrong, but his father cupped his face before pulling him in for a hug.


    "You are no longer a child. I am proud of you, my son. Your uncles would be proud."


    He laughed and hugged his father. He felt a pat to his head and he looked over to see his brunette uncle also crying with a smile.


    "I am an uncle and I am very proud of you Lan-er."


    When they were ready, they picked up the bucket of lotus, the box of Ying Yue''s items, and a boat big enough for two. Han Mo went to gather the students to say goodbye, as the other''s set up. Both Wang Li and Ying Yue''s bodies were positioned with their hand on top of the other. They looked as if they died peacefully.


    Then, items from Ying Yue''s box was placed around them and over them, giving a picture of their lives.


    Each student said their goodbyes quietly, placing a lotus when they were finished. Then Li Yun and Nuying went, each layering roses over their bodies. Feng Zhi kneeled and prayed for a while before bowing lowly to each chosen. Next was Xu Ling and Han Mo. Then it was Mo Chou and Xu Lan.


    Holding one another''s hand, they spoke their peace, their love, their gratitude for the elders.


    "We will love as deeply as you both did," Mo Chou said softly and Xu Lan squeezed his hand.


    "And we will hold our promises to you," the new Heaven''s Chosen stated.


    "And I will make sure Lan-er is always taken care of."


    "Uh, I will make sure to be kind to Ah Chou."


    "I will be sure to please him fully every day."


    "Mo Chou," Xu Lan flushed, "Why must you say that to¡­ to my uncles?!"


    "So they make sure I follow through," Mo Chou grinned and kissed his lips gently.


    "The kids are watching," Xu Lan''s ears reddened and he cleared his throat. Looking back at his uncles, even in death, they looked beautiful.


    "I will do my best to protect this world," he whispered, "May you both be at peace and find one another again."


    The pink haired master finished with his eyes shedding tears and his nose itchy. Mo Chou held him in his arms for a moment, before tugging him further up the shore. Xu Ling pushed the boat into the lake and Han Mo fanned the wind to move the boat further down the stream. Xu Lan pulled the lit arrow and aimed it at his uncles'' bodies.


    The sound of the flute and the pipa floated in the air, singing his uncles'' song for one another. It was fitting, wasn''t it?


    Closing his eyes, he felt his heart aching.


    ["Lan-er," Ying Yue rubbed his cheek, "There will come a time when you have to make a choice alone. When that time comes, do not regret it."


    "Why would I regret my choice? Besides, you are all always with me, I don''t have to decide alone."


    Xu Lan tilted his head with a frown. Washing his dirtied robe, he didn''t understand what his uncle was talking about. He would always have his father and his uncles and his¡­ Nuying and Mo- Did he mentioned his father?


    "Even if we are around, Ah Lan, some decisions you must make alone. Even if we try to sway you, you are stubborn like your father."


    Ying Yue sighed into his teacup, only to have his eyes widened when his nephew blurted it.


    "Uncle Yue! I am telling father!"


    The pink haired boy stood quickly and Ying Yue barely put the cup in his hand down before his nephew already took off.


    "Eh? W¡­ wait Lan-er!"


    His uncle caught him and they fell. Laughing, Xu Lan tried to crawl away, but his uncle lied on top of him like a bear.


    "Uncle Yue!" He laughed, "Get off."


    "Nope."


    "Uncle," he whined only to hear his uncle laughing and pinching his cheeks.


    "Ah! Uncle Yue!" Xu Lan screeched and Ying Yue got off him grinning.]


    Xu Lan''s heart stuttered and he opened his eyes, trying to focus on his task. Fat tears rolled down his eyes and his snot were dripping down. Wiping against his shoulder, he blinked and blinked with his body shaking.


    ["What is wrong, Lan-er?" Wang Li questioned combing his curly hair.


    They had just returned from another practice in honing his powers, but he was unable to let go.


    "I''m¡­ I''m scared."


    His uncle stopped and turned him so silver eyes can search his face. Xu Lan, in turn, looked his uncle over to see healing scars on his face from his bout earlier. He looked down, picking at the seam on his pink tunic.


    "Of your powers?"


    Wang Li held him and he leaned against his uncle''s chest. He knew his Uncle Li was the Ghost King and he hated what his uncle did, but¡­ Wang Li did not sound like what the books said. His uncle was kind and let him beat him up without fighting back.


    Fingers ran through his combed curls and he closed his eyes. He could feel it in him, swirling and fighting for dominance. Ever since his demonic power awakened, he feared for the worse.


    "Will I be evil?" He whispered and he heard his uncle chuckle, "I am serious," he muttered.


    "My apologies," Wang Li hummed, "You, my nephew, is too pure to be evil."


    "I''m not that pure¡­" he pouted and heard the laugh vibrate against his ear.


    "You didn''t want Li Chu to kill the bug inside her room."


    "A bug has a life too."


    "You chastised the kids when you found out they were fooling around."


    "They should focus on their studies."


    "You made sure Chou-er is well-fed."


    "Even that no gooder should eat."


    Wang Li laughed and rubbed the child''s back.


    "You wield your Heaven''s gift easily, but it wasn''t easy the first time, right? Once you get used to it, you would control both forms easily. But if your fear is if you will be evil, a true demon, once you give in¡­ you should have no fear."


    "How are you certain?"


    "Do you think I am evil?"


    He didn''t respond.


    "Do you think Mo Chou is evil?"


    "Mo Chou is-" he huffed pressing closer to his uncle, "Ugh! He is annoying."


    "But not evil."


    "Annoyingly evil," he mumbled and felt a pinch to his side, making him squirm.


    "You have the choice, Lan-er, on which side you wish to take. A choice neither my wife nor I had. I know you will become far better than we are."


    "Really?" He pulled back with his face brighten and wide open for his uncle to see.


    "That is once you control both sides evenly."


    "I will!"


    "Don''t fail, Ah Lan."


    ''I promise, I won''t!" He grinned to have his uncle cupped his cheeks before pinching them.


    "Uncle LI!" He whined pushing the fingers off him to earn a laugh from the Ghost King.]


    ''I will miss you both dearly. I love you.''


    With his eyes closed, he let the arrow fly. It arched in the sky before landing in the boat. Flames spread over the straw hat, paintings, books, scrolls, and the life that both Wang Li and Ying Yue shared. The flames licked up robes and caught strands. Ashes floated into the air as the moon watched from above.


    So many centuries the moon witnessed the lovers'' happiness, their pain, their sadness. Illuminating the flames into a glow, the moon felt peace upon the once sad lonely king who created a family. The moon felt harmony for the guilt ridden no named boy who was loved. Their love had gone through many seasons, yet not once did they forget the other.


    When the flames died, nothing but the leftover ashes floated in the sky before it too dispersed.


    Saying goodbyes to the students and returning to the school, Xu Lan sat on the bench and stared at the moon.


    ''Just looking at her reminds me of Uncle Li''s eyes and Uncle Yue''s name.''


    Mo Chou sat beside him and he looked over to see brown eyes watching him. He offered a smile and Mo Chou returned it with their fingers interlocking. He heard footsteps neared and turned to the direction. His father was holding Uncle Yue''s guqin and Uncle Mo was holding Uncle Li''s.


    "A parting gift," Xu Ling said quietly and handed his brother''s instrument to his son.


    "Same for you, Mo Chou," Han Mo handed his king''s guqin to the navy haired boy.


    Both stared at it, then at one another, then at their gift once more. Mo Chou started laughing cupping the back of Xu Lan''s head. The pinkette''s lips curled into a smile, a grin, to laughing alongside his lover.


    Neither one knew how to play, but they would do their best not to break it. No guarantees though.


    As the night ended and everyone was in bed wrapped in warmth, peace settled upon this world.


    Somewhere in a village, the cry of a child sounded.


    A second later, another followed.

 Chapter 208 - Pang Xi And Ye Wu- You Feel So Alive

    When morning came, Ye Wu stood outside of Pang Xi''s home. He could hear a woman speaking and he wondered if it was Pang Xi''s mother. His red eyes watched as the green haired boy bowed to the person inside and closed the door. Golden eyes looked up and caught his red ones. They stared at one another for a moment, before Ye Wu jumped down from the tree branch.


    "Is something wrong, Ye Wu?"


    "Just curious," the demon narrowed his eyes slowly, "What do you get out of this?"


    "What do you mean?"


    Tilting his head to the side, he touched the green hair and found his eyes blinking it in.


    ''Soft¡­'' he hummed as he eyed curiously with his fingers trailing along glowing white skin, ''Smooth and warm¡­''


    "Ye Wu?"


    "Hm?" He questioned as his fingers continued to trail over the face before him, sliding down the bridge of the nose to the feel of lips.


    "Why are you touching me like this?"


    "Curious," Ye Wu mumbled and his hands ran along arms and chest, felt the pumping of Pang Xi golden core pumping with his blood. He moved his hands lower, but the boy jumped back flushing slightly.


    "You should not touch someone in such ways, Ye Wu."


    "You¡­ feel so alive," he whispered and he tilted his head to the other side, blinking in the rise and fall of chest and the tinge of pink underneath white skin.


    "The villagers are alive as well."


    "Yeah, but they shouldn''t be," his red eyes glared for a short moment, "Also, they never¡­ cared."


    Pang Xi offered a soft smile and nodded.


    "Are you hungry? Did you swipe any food today?"


    "Eh? How you know if I did or not?"


    "¡­"


    "You pretty stalker! What do you want with me, huh?" Ye Wu rubbed his chin.


    "I meant what I said, Ye Wu. I will do my best to protect you."


    "That is a high task for a child."


    "You are a child as well."


    "I am centuries older."


    "Prove it."


    "Eh? How will I do that?"


    Ye Wu questioned as they walked alongside one another to the stalls. The villager they headed to had her eyes widened and her mouth opened and closed a few times. Ye Wu narrowed his eyes and Pang Xi ignored the blatant staring as he ordered two bowls of noodles. Going to sit at the table, he ushered the demon to join him, but Ye Wu stayed put and watched as the female cooked.


    Waking over to Ye Wu, Pang Xi looked at the female and back at the boy.


    "What is wrong?"


    "Just making sure it isn''t poisoned."


    "She wouldn''t do that."


    "Have you been poisoned before, golden one?" Ye Wu asked and the green haired boy shook his head, "I have. It hurts. I don''t want you to feel it."


    Pang Xi dipped his brows as he spoke and stared at the female who was slightly trembling.


    "Ye Wu, let us sit down. She will not wish us harm. She is a kind woman. Besides, you can just taste mine then to see if it is poisoned."


    He watched the frown graced the demon''s face before Ye Wu threatened that the lady to better not poison them or he''d hurt her. Which ended up with Pang Xi reprimanding the red eyed boy.


    "I won''t do anything to her if she doesn''t try to kill us. It''s simple, don''t you think everyone would know that by now?"


    Pang Xi sighed and shook his head.


    "So, tell me, Ah Xi, since you''ve been spying on me, what do you do besides that?"


    The meal was placed before them and Ye Wu narrowed his eyes at the female who bowed and returned to hide behind the counter. Quickly reaching for the green-haired boy''s bowl, he scooped the juice and tasted. Licking his lips, he hummed and stared at the golden eyes watching him.


    "Good?"


    Ye Wu''s lips stretched into a smile as he continued to eat from the bowl. Green brow quirked up and Pang Xi reached for the unneatened bowl of noodles, but Ye Wu held it away. Golden eyes widened and looked behind Ye Wu, causing the demon to quickly turn. When red eyes returned to his, Pang Xi was already eating, slurping the noodles down his throat.


    The demon laughed loudly and his heart was churning.


    ''You, Pang Xi, will be mine.''


    ==


    (Present time)


    "Mine," the raven haired man mumbled snuggling closer and nuzzling the body in his arms.


    He felt fingers ran down his scalp and he purred, rubbing his chin with a pleased smile. Fingers ran down the back of his head to the exposed back. There was pressure, pressed into his skin in its wake, and Ye Wu moaned sucking on the collar of the robe his lover wore.


    "Ah Wu," his lover''s voice was soft over him, like a blanket of safety, "You have a visitor."


    "Mm bsy¡­" he murmured and laid laxed against his lover''s arms.


    A pinch to his ass and he gasped, before groaning and moving up his lover''s seated position to straddle him. His red eyes, half lidded, could not help but to take in his lovely treasure. He licked his lips, leaning down for a kiss, but the green haired man covered his lips.


    "Finish your duty, then we will play."


    "Pway neow," He said through the palm with furrowed brows and a frown.


    "After," Pang Xi leaned in to move to his ear, "And I will punish you the way you like."


    He moaned as his body ignited in so much want, he shook with excitement. His cock was already stirring to hardness and he growled lightly. Not bothering to turn around, he called out to whoever interrupted him.


    "What is it?!"


    "My king, my lord," the demon spoke up, "A letter."


    Ye Wu''s ears perked and he turned to look over his shoulder and recognized this was one of the many who escaped. Why was this mid-level demon, one who looked human, standing before him? Why did Mo Chou not just kill it!


    "From who?"


    "The Ghost King''s Loyalist, my Lord."


    Ye Wu slipped off from his lover and stood, walking to the demon naked and undeterred. Grabbing the letter, he waved it and stared at the demon.


    "Did he put you up to this?"


    "He offered my life if I return this to you. I may be a demon, but I am to my words."


    "Hmm," Ye Wu sounded with narrowed eyes before he sighed and waved the demon away, "Go to the level 3. If you do well, we will consider letting you in the village."


    "Thank you, my lord, Sir."


    The demon bowed to the two and left.


    Ye Wu returned to his lover sitting on the throne. He took a moment to soak in the relaxed look, the slight curl on those lips, and the hand reaching out to him. His heart jumped and shook, trembling with bountiful of lifetimes of love for the green haired boy.


    Grabbing the hand, he sat on his lover''s lap sideways, and opened the letter for both to read.


    "Ye Wu and Pang Xi, I am to be wedded. Please send us your blessings and gifts. Be sure they are useful or I would throw it away. Also, you better not send any demons to the surface unless you want them dead!


    Oh, Xu Lan says "Uncle Li spoke of you both. May the Heavens bless you."


    I told him not to, but he did anyways. Be happy he forgave you, you demon sloth."


    "See!" Ye Wu shook the letter, "That damn stupid child! Ah Li never got to see that brat behave this way! Always so kind and proper when he is around and now that he is gone, that dumb dog thinks he can just call me a sloth!"


    Pang Xi sighed and pulled the letter away before his lover ripped it apart. Tucking it in his coat, he stood, picking the demon in his arms, and leaned down to whisper.


    "Time for your punishment, baby sloth."


    "I''m not a sloth," Ye Wu whined sticking his bottom lip out.


    "You are lazy and wants sex all day."

 Chapter 209 - Pang Xi And Ye Wu- Forever

    **This smut might be too much for you if you do not like punishment play (is that what it is lol) read at your own discretion~**


    "''¡­"


    "Am I wrong?"


    "I am only like this because you are here," Ye Wu wrapped his arms around the green haired man''s neck, "You make me insatiable."


    "I thought no one can make you do anything," Pang Xi laughed as they entered their chamber.


    Ye Wu grinned and placed kisses under his jaw and neck, before being dropped onto the bed. His red eyes dilated with arousal as he watched his lover stripped before him. In just his bottoms, Pang Xi took the sash and tied Ye Wu''s wrists together, before tying the end to the headboard. He ran his palms down the demon''s chest, thumbed the hardened nipple, and down the opened thighs. All while Ye Wu moaned licking his lips.


    Pang Xi sat beside the demon and ran his fingernails up and down the inside of a thigh, causing a jerk of the narrowed hips. His lover whined and struggled to press to him, hiking hips toward him so the leaking hardness could be touched. The green haired man chuckled and continued his ministration on his lover''s inner thigh.


    "Ah Xi," Ye Wu panted out, "Please."


    His nails dug harder as he scraped, earning a hitched of breath and a louder whine.


    "You did it again," Pang Xi stated and smacked the pale thigh, "Dreaming of another man."


    Another slap and Ye Wu whimpered biting his lips. Pang Xi stared at the quickened redness on his lover''s skin, skin that was so easy to mark. He pressed against the mark, leaving his palm hot and heavy there, like a warning if the demon lied.


    "Did I?" Ye Wu questioned furrowing his brows before another smack against his other thigh sounded.


    "The same boy, the same man," Pang Xi smacked again before squeezing the mark.


    Ye Wu winced, but his cock hardened, red and throbbing. Panting out, he looked at his lover to see a flat face, one Pang Xi rarely wore, even during their play. He tried to reach out, but forgot his wrists were tied. The green haired lover flipped him so his chest was to the bed and his ass was in the air.


    A hard smack, and another, and another that made even the demon in him choked on his own spit. Nails ran down his back, scraping hard, digging to break skin, as it grazed down to his ass and thigh. Scrunching his face, he fisted his hands as another round of smacks to his reddened butt was felt. Pang Xi¡­ He was never this ruthless.


    What was it that made his master feel this way?


    "Ah! AH!"


    He screamed and his body shook. Even feeling this degrading and confused, he still came with what minimal love Pang XI gave him. Fingers wrapped around his limp slicked cock and he whimpered. Even with the sensitivity and climaxing, his cock began to fill up with every stroke his master gave him.


    "M¡­ Master," Ye Wu panted out feeling so hot.


    He barely got those words out, when three fingers pushed into his pucker. It dug in and moved fast, making his body trembled and shivered. Moaning loudly, he moved against the digits in him, but they pulled away. Whining, he shook his ass, hoping to entice his lover.


    A thrust in and his lover was fully sheathed, leaving him opened mouth with heart in his eyes.


    Oh, he loves his Pang Xi and his fat cock.


    "Ooooh, Ah Xi," he panted wanting more, "Ah, so, so, so fucking good. I love it master, please. More!"


    Hands wrapped around his throat and he felt the squeeze. Mouth opened to breath, he wheezed when the pounding quickened and it was starting to get hard to breath. Tongue hanging out, he rolled his hips against the pounding and keened loudly through gasps. Cum covered his walls and the hand removed itself from his throat. His head hung as he caught his breath, feeling his cock neglected and pulsing. He just needed one touch and he would be in ecstasy once more.


    "Wait, please, not yet," he cried softly biting his lips as he felt his lover pull out.


    A slap to his ass was the reply and he arched his back needing more, but Pang Xi got off the bed and stared at him. Pale golden eyes watched him closely and Ye Wu furrowed his brows in worry.


    ''Was something happening to Pang Xi?'' He wondered before his thoughts screamed at him, ''Those bastards better not be taking him away from me!''


    "Ah Wu," Pang Xi sighed and touched his face, caressing it gently, "You''ve been dreaming of the past again."


    The sash was removed and kisses were placed on his bruised wrists. His hard cock forgotten at the moment as he watched something similar to pain cross his lover''s face. Red eyes searched the beauty before him, before cupping his master''s face.


    "Does it bother you?"


    "Yes."


    "But¡­ they are of you, Ah Xi."


    "No," green hair shook, "They are not."


    "What-"


    "The one you love is another man, Ye Wu. My name is Pang Xi and I was a farmer, weak, left by my family, starving until I met you. The man you dream of is not me. I am his ghost."


    Ye Wu''s eyes widened and he quickly smashed his lips against his lover. Pulling away, he kissed him again and again, until his lover kissed back. Growling, he leaned back and tugged his lover''s hair hard.


    "You Pang Xi, is the one that ever showed me kindness when I was young. You, Pang Xi, cared for a nobody like me. You, Pang XI, showed me pity, love, kisses that took my damn breath away and made me think of you when I touch myself, the ONLY one I ever want inside me!"


    He banged his forehead against his lover''s.


    "You make me crazy even in death. Do you not understand," he laughed softly, "Even you with no memories of our past still showed me kindness, still gave me love, still takes my fucking breath away. All of you, Ah Xi, belongs to me. You will forever be mine."


    He finished quietly with his eyes prickling with tears. He was getting too sappy and he blamed Wang Li. After meeting that damn boy, he became too mushy and spoiled him to the tee. Now here he was vomiting flowery words and confessions that he would had just stabbed the person instead. No¡­ He could never stab Pang Xi even when they did battle.


    "Good baby sloth," Pang Xi whispered and he laughed kissing the green haired master once more.


    He felt a hand wrapped around his cock and it came back to life, erected and ready to burst. Panting against his lover''s shoulder, he curved his back as the fist moved quicker, bring him over the edge. Moaning loudly, he tongued into his farmer''s mouth and sighed happily.


    "Don''t sleep yet. We have to give Mo Chou and Xu Lan their wedding gift."


    "But mm tired¡­" Ye Wu mumbled leaning against his hold.


    "Then I''m going to give them what our king left for you."


    "What?! No way I''m give that stinky brat my gift!"


    Pang Xi pulled his lover''s face off his shoulder and stared at beautiful red rubies. He saw the dipped brows relaxed and the softening of a smile. He smiled back before tossing his lover off him and heading to the untouched box.


    "Ah Xi! Don''t you dare!"


    Pang Xi chuckled quietly when in the end, Ye Wu ended up making the children a wedding veil with a letter full of anger. Yet, Pang Xi knew better and so did Mo Chou. Within all the rough writing and angry words strewn together, there were proudness and joy.


    Pale golden eyes watched the raven carried the gift and letter, flapping black ghostly wings.


    "Ah Xi," Ye Wu spoke up with fists at his hips, "We should get married too."


    "Huh?"


    "I mean everyone else is. I''m feeling left out," the ruby eyed demon pouted and leaned against him.


    "But are we not married already¡­"


    "When?"


    "When you marked me¡­"


    "Wait¡­ you thought¡­ you thought that meant¡­"


    Ye Wu found his face flushing and he laughed kissing his lover breathlessly.


    "Mine."


    "Yes."


    "Yours."


    "Yes."


    "Forever?"


    "Of course."


    Ye Wu grinned and melted into his lover''s arm.


    ''Now I know what true happiness is, Ah Li. I pray you are happy as well, wherever you are.''

 Chapter 210 - Mo Chou And Xu Lan- First Time

    Xu Lan was happy. Mo Chou was happy. They both looked at one another with flushed face and grins, as they clanked their drink. The wedding veil the demon made for them was long and neither Mo Chou nor Xu Lan could decide who wore it. In the end, they both had it wrapped around their wrists, connecting them like handcuffs. Dressed in red with jewels and merry people to witness, everyone was happy.


    A happy occasion that ended with demons sighted nearby.


    So, their wedding was cut short as they took care of the evil entity that ruined their special day.


    Here Mo Chou was looking forward to finally taking his pink haired lover. Ah, how cute the boy still was from just kissing him! His pale white skin, flushing as deep as his blood with just his fingers trailing down his lover''s bare neck. He hadn''t even seen Xu Lan naked, but oh was he ready to show the young master what his body was needing.


    Although the navy haired man no longer had the gift of his king, he could hold his own. Swinging his blade, he stabbed the demon in the chest and kicked it off. Blood gushed onto his wedding robe and he frowned deeply. A tug to his wrist and he stumbled toward his lover. His brown eyes watched as the pinkette kicked and slashed the demon''s back.


    Blood splashed across pale cheek and eyes glowed gold on his lover. He watched as Xu Lan slammed his palm against the demon''s head, releasing it back. Golden eyes reverted back to the black he remembered.


    ''So fucking hot.''


    "Ah Chou-"


    Mo Chou did not let his lover finish as he smashed his lips to those lovely delicious ones. Licking, tugging, he slipped his tongue inside and played in the heat of the young master''s mouth. Hands gripped his waist before moving to wrap around him. The navy haired man caressed his lover''s clothed chest and slid down to palm the growing bulge.


    "Ah!"


    Every time he barely grazed his lover''s penis, the boy jumped away flushing like a strawberry.


    Every time it turned him on more.


    "What, what are you doing¡­"


    "My darling LanLan, Lan-er, Ah Lan, my beautiful wife," he breathed out moving into his lover''s space once more to press his knee in between the pinkette''s legs, "Damn, you make me horny."


    "Ah, Ah Chou! You, you shameless-"


    Xu Lan gasped and gripped Mo Chou''s bicep, squeezing it in a death grip. Pulling his lover away, he was already breathing hard. Meanwhile, the navy haired man was smirking slyly with eyes trailing up and down his body.


    Mo Chou never hid his intentions. They were clear as when they first met, but now that they were married¡­


    Swallowing down his nerves, he stuck his bottom lip out and furrowed his brows.


    "Why am I the wife?"


    "Cause your beauty rivals even my king and your uncle, like a newborn rose with petals untouched," Mo Chou poet and it only cause Xu Lan''s entire face to redden.


    "Shut up! You, you are handsome too," he pointed at his lover, "You are pretty like, like a bunny with claws cause, cause you are dangerous too and I like that."


    "¡­"


    Xu Lan looked away as his face heated so much, he was sure he was melting under the sun. He was certain he blended in with his red wedding robe. He felt his head cupped into warm palms and he stared into chocolatey brown eyes. He loved Mo Chou''s purple eyes, but these brown ones made his insides churn and twist in a good way.


    "Words are not your strong suit, darling," he saw the exhale of a smile, "But I love you anyways."


    They kissed gently this time, before returning to the school and to their room.


    Mo Chou helped his lover out of the tunic and his lips was itching to attach itself to the flushed skin. Holding himself back, the experienced man stripped as well, so his lover did not feel too vulnerable. Now, both naked, Xu Lan went to sit on the side of the bed with his legs closed and arms across his chest.


    "Do we¡­ just sleep like this?"


    ''The whitest lotus I''ve ever seen!'' Mo Chou''s inner self shook with giddiness.


    "Have¡­ your father not, you know, spoke to you about this?"


    "All he said is to prepare and be careful."


    "So¡­ you''ve never¡­ you''ve never seen others¡­"


    "I have," Xu Lan frowned, "I''ve caught the children touching and kissing, but I stopped them. Uncle Li and Uncle Yue kisses a lot, Uncle Mo and Fu Shen would lean against one another, and-"


    "Ah Lan," Mo Chou smiled, "I meant seen people have sex, make love."


    "My father and my mother."


    "¡­"


    "I caught them sometimes doing things in their room."


    "Uh¡­ Why didn''t you knock¡­"


    "Why should I? Father said I could enter whenever I please."


    ''Oh what an innocent boy! Here I am going to ruin him¡­'' Mo Chou covered his mouth as a flush laid over his cheeks. His cock was stirring, hardening with the thought of taking his precious lover.


    "Knock next time, darling. Being interrupted during love making is not ideal. Especially when he is close."


    "Close to what?"


    "LanLan," he groaned grabbing his young master''s face, "I am going to ruin you."


    He kissed the boy deep and hard, then his lips kissed and sucked down neck and chest. Tongue and thumb dragged over the nipples, earning a quiet gasp from its owner. Lightly biting and pulling on the nub, he delighted in the grip on his shoulders. He moved lower, tasting chest and abdomen to pelvis.


    A drag along the shaft of the thick cock cause Xu Lan to buck his hips.


    "Ah, Ah Chou. Is, is it not disgusting?"


    "Nothing of you is disgusting, my dearest darling," Mo Chou kissed and licked the precum along the slit, "Every inch of you is delicious."


    Then his mouth stretched to fit the penis inside. Moaning as he went down, he missed tasting something this sweet and tangy in him. Massaging the filled balls, he felt fingers clutched to his hair and he sucked harder. It didn''t take long for Xu Lan to climax with his entire body buzzing against his touches.


    Pulling his lips away after licking what was left, Mo Chou looked up to see dilated eyes staring at him in a daze. The fingers that were gripping his hair was now trailing along his tanned cheek. Eyes softening, he turned to place a kiss to the palm, before leaning up to kiss Xu Lan.


    The pinkette felt the bed against his back and Mo Chou above him, warm and kissing him. His fingers trailed along tanned skin, palming down the sides to the back and up again. They continued to kiss for a while and he didn''t mind it. Xu Lan loved kissing Mo Chou because it felt like they were sharing their energy, their core.


    Although Mo Chou had no more power, he can still taste the lingering of it on his lips.


    "Ah Lan," his lover pulled away breathing against his face, "Hard already?"

 Chapter 211 - Mo Chou And Xu Lan- Gift You

    "Is¡­ is it normal?"


    "Don''t worry, darling, I will take care of you," Mo Chou laughed softly and reached down to wrap his hand around the length, "You are of the Heavens and with demon blood. You should be insatiable. It is a wonder how you lasted so long, my love."


    "It¡­ ah, it just¡­ it just didn''t matter," he panted out and kissed his lover.


    "Too bad you married me," Mo Chou chuckled and fisted tighter, "It matters a lot to me."


    He kissed the scrunched face of his lover and the moans leaving kiss bitten lips. He was going to fuck him so good, Mo Chou would make sure Xu Lan felt it in his very core. He pulled back and watched wet lips parted and eyes shut in pleasure. His neglected cock was leaking precum, asking to be touched, but Mo Chou was hypnotized by the look on the pinkette''s face.


    "Oh fuck!"


    Mo Chou stopped his pumping and Xu Lan groaned with heaving chest. Moving to straddle his lover, Xu Lan blinked at him slowly, still coming down from pleasure. Mo Chou positioned his entrance and held his lover''s dick in place, before slowly taking it in.


    ''It''s a good thing I prepared myself,'' he breathed out as the tip entered, ''In case I changed my mind. Fuck!''


    He gasped when Xu Lan thrusted up and then apologized. He shook his navy hair with a laugh and finished moving down until he was seated fully. Ah, it had been a while since he felt this full. He looked at his lover who was breathing hard and head thrown back. Fingers on his hips twitched and trembled.


    "Lan-er, you beautiful child," Mo Chou rolled his hips, earning a gasp and a grip to his hips.


    "Momo," Xu Lan panted out, "I think, I think I am dying. You, you are going to squeeze me to death."


    Mo Chou chuckled and rolled his hips a few more time to loosen his walls. Then, he was moving up and down, twerking to feel his ass hitting skin. He watched curly pink hair swung around the beauty below him, watched as gasps and moans escaped pink lips, and watched as teeth bit into knuckles.


    His Xu Lan would had made the perfect concubine. Now he was just his and Mo Chou preferred it that way. If he ever had to share the young master, he would kill them all, human, demon, even those of heavens just to have this, have Xu Lan writhing and moaning with pleasure by him.


    Tears pricked the corner of Xu Lan''s eyes as the flush continued to grow on his lover''s face.


    He bent down and kissed the tear duct and captured the boy''s lips. He rolled his hips in circular motions as they continued to kiss. He grabbed the hand at his right hip and moved it down to palm over his ass cheek to where they were connected. He leaned forward and back again, so Xu Lan can feel how deep Mo Chou was taking him.


    "You feel so good, my love," Mo Chou panted softly, breathing his lover in.


    "It¡­ I¡­ ugh¡­ Mo Chou¡­ Momo," Xu Lan cried thrusting up and Mo Chou moaned.


    "Ah, yes, LanLan. Again."


    Wrapping his arms around Mo Chou''s hips, he thrusted up harder and faster feeling the need to release. He could hear the navy haired man crying out ''Yes!'' and it egged him on to slammed himself deeper into the tight hole.


    "Ah! Ah! Lan, please¡­ Come inside. Let, let me feel you," Mo Chou panted and whimpered when his prostate was thumped into over and over, repeatedly as if his lover knew.


    His hard cock was nestled in between their bodies, rubbing against abs, slicked by his precum. His head was getting light and he moved his hips to join his darling into blissful ecstasy. Their bodies shook and shivered, but their lips were tasting one another. Rolling his hips a few more time, Mo Chou sighed licking his lips.


    "Enjoyed yourself, my love?"


    "That¡­ I¡­ Wow¡­"


    Mo Chou chuckled and laid light bitten sucks along his lover''s jawline and neck, marking him for all to know. If Xu Lan got upset, he would make it up to the pinkette by kissing him silly or fucking him until they cum. Speaking of which¡­


    "Now, I shall enter you."


    "Right¡­ right now?!"


    "Yes."


    "Are you not, are you not tired?"


    "Kind of. Use to be able to last longer when I had powers, but I made it a promise to please you fully, Ah Lan. I shall do so."


    Mo Chou grinned and pulled up off his lover. He heard the deep groan and he bit his lips feeling his pucker clutch to air. He arms were held and he suddenly felt the mattress at his side. Blinking his brown eyes, he was facing the pinkette who was staring at him intensely.


    "I am pleased Ah Chou. You mustn''t push yourself."


    "Ah L-"


    "We have the rest of our lives."


    "The rest of my life, you mean."


    "¡­"


    "Are you sad already? We just got married, Ah Lan. I am not dead yet."


    "¡­"


    "LanLan?"


    "How¡­ how did Uncle Li gift you?"


    Mo Chou searched Xu Lan''s face and he felt his cheeks glowing with warmth. Ah, his dear Ah Lan was too kind to him. He ran fingers down his lover''s face and pushed sweaty pink locks away from the white face.


    "You wish to gift me too?"


    "Yes."


    "Mm¡­"


    "You don''t want me to?"


    "My dear love," Mo Chou smiled and leaned in to kiss him, "Could you really not live without me?"


    "I could, but I don''t want to. I''ve watched my uncle cry and yearn for Uncle Li. I do not wish to do the same if I can help it."


    Mo Chou laughed and kissed him again, lifting his lover''s palm onto his chest.


    "Which do you wish to give?"


    "Both."


    "Alright," Mo Chou placed his forehead against Xu Lan''s, "Go on then, my husband."


    "Eh? Did you say husband?"


    "And wife. Everything. I love you."


    "I love you too, Momo."


    They kissed once more and Mo Chou felt a warmth enter him, wrapping around his soul like kisses of butterflies. Heart filled with fullness and love, he kissed his darling again.


    ''Forever.''


    "Now, my love," Mo Chou panted breathlessly as his body adjust to his husband''s warmth, "Let me pleasure you in a different way."


    He leaned over and his body slumped. Ah, tomorrow. He was too tired and his Xu Lan''s warmth was rocking him into sleep.

 Chapter 212 - Mo Chou And Xu Lan- My Concubine

    Xu Lan stared at the navy haired man, long limbs wrapped around his body and drools slipping down parted lips. The snore¡­ the snore was loud and echoed in his room. Although he loves Mo Chou, this snore sounded like it should have been from a giant beast then his husband!


    His black eyes looked down the naked body and paused at the cock nestled against his pelvis. He flushed and he swallowed staring at his lover''s face. This¡­ was still weird. He still felt weird just kissing and now he was married and they just¡­ they just had sex.


    He touched Mo Chou''s face, pretty tanned skin looked flawless, and he felt smoothness along his fingers. He could feel his energy inside the navy haired man and he smiled relieved.


    ''Uncles, I hope I did it right. I don''t want to lose Ah Chou.''


    "Mmphur," Mo Chou mumbled and moaned, pressing his hips to his, "Mmm."


    Xu Lan could feel his cock stirring from the movement of his lover''s ass, moving along with hips. He flushed and watched Mo Chou stuck a thumb into his mouth and sucked it. His black eyes was mesmerized by the tongue peeking out of lips to drag along the thumb, wetting kissable lips. Mo Chou groaned and he sucked his thumb tighter.


    "Ah Lan," Mo Chou breathed out with a mewl and Xu Lan flushed deeply.


    ''Was Ah Chou dreaming about me? Having¡­ Sh¡­ shameless!''


    Brown eyes opened and he froze, breath in his throat. A slow smile curled and he saw the half-lidded eyes watching him sultrily. His finger was pulled to Mo Chou''s lips and tongue licked his index finger before wrapping into the heat of the mouth. He gasped and his hips jerked, earning a pleased moan.


    "Ah Chou," Xu Lan looked away, "We should get up. It is late."


    "Mm," Mo Chou pulled his finger out of his lips and slid up to a sitting position, so elegant that Xu Lan felt like he was a snake. A very seductive one.


    His black eyes watched as his lover moved down to lick his hardness. He covered his face when Mo Chou sucked and brought his entire body to burn in flames. His eyes hazed with arousal and he groaned bucking his hips. Mo Chou sucked harder, and Xu Lan reached down to wrap his fingers around dark blue hair.


    "Ah! Ah¡­ Chou."


    His breath hitched and his mouth parted when he felt a finger pressed into his pucker. He squeezed tightly with his hands gripping Mo Chou''s hair. Mouth left his penis, still hard and throbbing, but went to the rim of his hole. The finger left his hole and tongue entered.


    This was just as weird as when they kissed with tongue, but Mo Chou''s tongue was¡­ it was inside his hole! Xu Lan felt strange, but his cock twitched and weeped. Then finger entered again.


    "My beautiful wife," Mo Chou chuckled and licked his lips, "You are so gorgeous."


    "You, you, ugh," another finger pushed in, "Horny, shameless, ah! Ah!"


    "Only for you husband," Mo Chou grinned and pulled his fingers out to ready his leaking penis, "I love you."


    Xu Lan''s eyes and mouth widened when he felt the push in. His walls clenched and tears filled his eyes. A snap of the hip and the bulb entered. He gasped, choking on air, and his body trembled and shook.


    "Shh, LanLan," Mo Chou rubbed their nose together and kissed his lips, "I promise it will feel better."


    "W¡­ when?" Xu Lan cried softly and his eyes softened.


    "The first time I saw you," he said to his pink haired lover, laying kisses on his tears, "I thought you were crazy, but very beautiful. Then you thought you could take me," Mo Chou chuckled and kissed his lover deeply, "Could you?"


    "Of course, I could!"


    "Mm, you submit to me so easily, Ah Lan," Mo Chou thrusted slowly inside the relaxing wall, "You were interested in me then too, weren''t you, my darling?"


    "No," Xu Lan panted and avoided his face.


    He chuckled and nibbled up the neck to his lover''s reddened ear.


    "I love it, you know. I would had taken you right there, claim you as mine."


    "Ah, mm," the pinkette panted, "Momo."


    He kissed his darling''s lips and kissed him dirty. His hips moved more and his thrusts became deeper. Thighs tightened around his hips and he pushed all the way in and waited. He could hear the whimpering and crying from Xu Lan, as the walls wrapped around his cock throbbed.


    "I love you, Ah Lan. Thank you for choosing me."


    He wiped the sweat off pale skin and black eyes blinked slowly at him.


    "I love you too," Xu Lan whispered and Mo Chou smiled.


    ''Maybe I was waiting for you, my darling, all these times.''


    He rolled his hips and the pinkette inhaled sharply with his back arched. Sighing with a smile, he began to move into his lover, punching out moans and groans with every move. Fingers dug into his arms, before they fell onto the bedsheet. He watched as Xu Lan turned to the side, biting into his knuckles.


    That made the pleasure sink even more.


    He moved faster, quicker, and Xu Lan was in the throes of passion. Mo Chou took a mental picture of his handsome husband looking so lewd and wanton. His lover''s wet lips were parted wide and drools were hanging at the corner, eyes with tears rolled back, and pale skin blushed with red. His lover would be the perfect concubine.


    ''My concubine. My husband. My wife. My lover. All mine.''


    Each thought was a quicker thrust, a harder push, and another kiss, led to their climax. He left lazy kisses and licks on his lover''s skin, as his hips slowed and the clenching loosened. He could feel the slick against his abdomen, but he didn''t mind it.


    Anything for Xu Lan.


    Pulling his head back, he watched as Xu Lan''s eyes were closed and was catching his breath. He wiped the curly pink locks away from the beauty and pink lashes fluttered.


    "Feels good darling?"


    "Mm."


    Mo Chou kissed Xu Lan softly and moved his hips to earn a whimper from the pinkette. His fingers trailed down the pale chest to rub the hardened nipple. Mo Chou wanted to please Xu Lan again, but there was a hard knock on their door.


    "Oi, you kids. Why did you not soundproof your room?" Han Mo groaned, "Hurry up and get ready. We are needed."


    "Uncle Mo!" Xu Lan pushed Mo Chou off him and winced feeling his hole clenching air, "W¡­ wait!"


    Mo Chou watched Xu Lan wobbled as he stood, before hurrying to put on his outfit and left the room. Brown eyes blinked for a moment, before his lips spread to smirk slyly.


    Taking his time in getting dress, he waited for his lover to enter, realizing he would be leaking his cum. After thinking that, a few seconds later, a red faced pinkette entered the room.


    He laughed and his darling tackled him.


    By the time they returned to face their family, the sun was beginning to set, and the situation had been taken care of.


    "This is your fault," Xu Lan frowned and stuffed his face at the table in the cafeteria.


    "Hm? You were the one who tackled me, then our clothes got ruined, then seduced me with your body."


    Xu Lan flushed and pinched his arm, making Mo Chou winced.


    "I really would rather not hear that," Han Mo stated blandly, but then laughed seeing how red his nephew was.


    "I shall remember, Uncle Mo," Mo Chou smirked.


    "You are part of our family now, Mo Chou. Save face or I will separate you two," Xu Ling stated with narrowed eyes.


    "Eh? We are married though," Mo Chou frowned.


    "I agree!" Xu Lan sat up straighter and nodded, before his eyes widened when he felt a palm on his thigh.


    "But wouldn''t that harm our marriage, LanLan? Wouldn''t you agree, mother?" Mo Chou looked over at Nuying who giggled.


    "Mm, I believe it could."


    "YingYing," Xu Ling frowned.


    "I mean, Xu Lan may be bothering you more, father. He might interrupt your time with mother. And Uncle Mo is busy visiting Fu Shen," Mo Chou listed off rubbing the inside of Xu Lan''s thigh.


    "What! I¡­ I do, do not- Mo Chou!" Xu Lan cried out when the navy haired man groped his cock.


    "Eh? What?!" Mo Chou feigned surprised, "What is it?"


    "You! You-"


    "Son. What is wrong with you?"


    Xu Lan looked at his family at the other side of the table to see furrowed brows and questioning stare, while Mo Cho blinked at him innocently.


    ''He wants to play?! Then, fine!''


    Xu Lan excused himself and pulled Mo Chou with him all the way to their room. Throwing the navy haired male onto the bed, he boxed him in.


    "Mo Chou."


    "Yes?"


    "I cannot entertain you and complete my duty. I promised Uncle Li and Uncle Yue. I cannot go back on my word."


    Mo Chou stared up at his husband, eyes determined, but brows furrowed. Sighing, he laid and closed his eyes with his arms out.


    "I apologize, Ah Lan. I shall behave."


    "Thank you."


    Mo Chou felt kisses along his neck then on his lips. He searched Xu Lan''s face and smiled.


    "Hm? What is this? A reward?"


    "You touched me," Xu Lan pressed his hips down so Mo Chou could feel what he had done.


    Mo Chou laughed and kissed his lover deeply.


    "Then let me take care of you, my darling."


    "No."


    "Huh?"


    "Punishment," Xu Lan smirked and stood up crossing his arms, "For not letting me do my work. No sex tonight."


    "You can''t be serious."


    "I am very serious," the pinkette''s brows dipped, "I made a promise to my uncles. If you get in the way, Ah Chou, even if we are married, I will put my mission above you. I would sacrifice my love for you if I must, for the lives of others."


    Mo Chou''s jaw dropped and he tried a few times to lift it back into place. Why does his husband sound so much like the redhead? His body shook from the thought and he sighed, patting his husband''s white arms.


    "I understand, Ah Lan. I will stop messing around and let you do your duty, so I have access to your cock and ass."


    Xu Lan''s white skin flushed red.


    "Must you speak in such ways!"


    "What? It is only us, darling."


    "But! It''s just- I- Ugh!"


    "Can I just have a taste? Come on LanLan."


    "Get away from me."


    "You don''t mean it. Just one lick."


    "Ah! Mo Chou!"


    "Please? I love you so much you know."


    "¡­"


    "Please?"


    "¡­ one."


    "One."


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "Mo CHOU! That was- ah! S- Stop!"


    "Mmm."


    The night ended with Mo Chou grinning with his hand over his left eye, and sent to sleep outside.


    ''It was worth it.''


    He laughed licking his lips as he looked up at the night sky littered with stars. He stared at the glowing moon and smile.


    "Thank you, my king. May you find Ah Yue again."

 Chapter 213 - Han Mo X Fu Shen- All My Life

    Han Mo finished tying up the perfume pouch he had made for his sweet Fu Shen. Smiling, he headed out of the school saying goodbye to his family. His smile went into a grin when he heard Mo Chou call out to him.


    "Uncle Mo," the navy haired man grinned, "Don''t rush. Be sure to take you time. I''ll make sure Lan Lan don''t bother you again!"


    "Oi! Mo Chou! I do not bother Uncle Mo!" The pinkette frowned and then found his husband wrapped around him like the golden binds.


    "Better hurry," Mo Chou singsong and Han Mo grinned, waving goodbye to them.


    Leaving the school, he traveled down the village to his lover''s home. He greeted the villagers and spoke to some, before he reached the small home in between other homes. Knocking on the door, he waited and smiled when Fu Shen opened the door.


    "Ah Shen," Mo Chou leaned in and the white haired man stepped back, opening the door wider for him to enter.


    Shaking his head, he walked in with a smile and looked around.


    "Where is Li Chu and Li Yun?"


    "They are out shopping," Fu Shen stated and closed the door, "Are you hungry?"


    "Mm. Did you have food already prepared?"


    "Yes," Fu Shen stated and went to plate him a meal.


    "You treat me so well, Shen-er," Han Mo sighed happily and sat at the table.


    He watched his lover and his golden eyes softened, pleased to know Fu Shen, his long awaited crush, was finally his. Just kissing behind closed doors and light touches on bare skin, he welcomed death each time. He sometimes would stare at his lover when the white haired man was sleeping.


    He still believed it was a dream sometimes.


    "Ah, my favorite," Han Mo laughed and kissed his lover''s cheek, "Thank you my love."


    Fu Shen sent a soft smile and watched him eat. It didn''t bother Han Mo because he reveled in those purple eyes on him. When he finished, Fu Shen brought the plate and chopsticks to the kitchen. Han Mo sighed rubbing his stomach. Before, his dearest Fu Shen only cared about the Ghost King''s favorite meal. Now¡­ Now his sweet lover remembered what he liked and what he enjoyed.


    When Fu Shen returned to him, he was surprised when his shy lover kissed him desperately. He kissed back and moaned when his lover''s tongue pressed through his lips. Fu Shen rarely ever took the initiative and ever wish to kiss this deeply! It made his entire body lit up and he was getting aroused just from the strokes of tongue.


    He was pushed down to lay with lips still on his. His leg straddle the other so their knees were pressed against one another''s hardness. Fu Shen was rubbing and Han Mo gripped the back of his lover''s head. He pressed his knee up and he swallowed the hitched of breath from the white haired man''s lips. They were kissing and rubbing out in the open where, if Fu Shen''s sisters returned, they would see them on the floor making out.


    "Shen," Han Mo breathed out when their lips parted, but their hips continued to rub, "Mm, should we not go to your room?"


    "I miss you," Fu Shen admitted and Han Mo flushed harder.


    "Ah! I miss you too."


    Han Mo kissed his lover deeply and quickly pulled back to pepper kisses along the burn marks.


    "Do you want to be in me or me in you," Han Mo panted rocking his hips, "Oh Heavens, I love you so much."


    "Master Mo," Fu Shen spoke so seriously that Han Mo tried to blink the arousal out of his eyes as they paused in their movements, "You have corrupted me."


    "What?" Han Mo furrowed his brows and grabbed his lover''s face, "How? Let me fix it."


    "Since we¡­ touched the first time. I cannot stop thinking about it since."


    "¡­"


    "Fix it."


    "¡­"


    "Ah Mo."


    "How¡­ How can I take back making love to you?" Han Mo frowned, "I cannot go back in time."


    "¡­"


    "Ah, forgive me, Ah Shen," Han Mo peppered kisses on his lover''s face and neck, "I should have waited and been more aware."


    "¡­"


    "Say something please, my sweet Fu Shen. I will do anything you wish."


    "¡­"


    "Ah Shen¡­"


    "Go to my room and take off your clothes."


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "W¡­ What?"


    "You heard me."


    Han Mo stared at Fu Shen for awhile and the slow smile on Fu Shen''s face made all the tension seeped off him. Kissing his lover''s lips, he stood up and proceeded to remove his clothing as he went to his lover''s room.


    Fu Shen watched his beautiful master enter his room and he tried to calm the butterflies in his stomach. Licking his lips, he laughed softly to himself. Entering his room, he removed his own clothing and joined his naked lover on his bed. They kissed, their fingers ran over their skins, and he wrapped his fingers around their cocks. Stroking, he heard the stuttered groan and watched his master''s eyes closed.


    "Mm, my sweet love," Han Mo panted out softly against his face, "You are beautiful."


    Warm palm touched his cheek and Fu Shen pumped faster, harder, and twisted his hand the way his master enjoyed. They came together, kissing and tonguing one another until they slowed their hips. They sighed and smiled, watching each other with such love in their eyes.


    "In all your life, I will always love you," Han Mo pressed his forehead to Fu Shen''s.


    "You say so every time."


    "Because it is true."


    Fu Shen laughed softly and Han Mo closed his eyes and let the sound of his lover''s voice hug his insides. They kissed a few more times before they fixed themselves and left Fu Shen''s room.


    Holding his dear Fu Shen from behind as his lover chopped to make dinner for his sisters, he placed the perfume on the counter. The chopping stopped and he kissed his lover''s temple before taking those lovely lips again.


    "Thank you, Master Mo."


    "Why do you call me master? Your sisters are not here."


    "A habit. My apologies, Ah Mo," Fu Shen smiled amusedly at him and Han Mo kissed him over and over as Fu Shen laughed against his lips.


    By the time Fu Shen finished making dinner, his sisters had returned. Han Mo smiled and greeted them. They spoke and caught up on what they were doing and how they were living.


    "I think I will go travel," Li Chu stated as she finished eating, "Sister and I have been talking for awhile. It would do me good and maybe I will find someone to love too."


    "I think that is a good idea, Li Chu," Han Mo nodded, "You are one of the strongest we have at cultivation. You control your powers well and who knows, maybe you will have your own apprentice to boss around."


    Han Mo grinned and the blue haired female laughed with a nod.


    "You? Are you thinking of joining your sister?" Han Mo questioned his lover.


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "No."


    "Why not?" Han Mo questioned, "Like your sister, you are also strong and I can see you with an apprentice as well. So many little Ah Shen."


    Han Mo sighed happily.


    "He does not wish to leave you," Li Yun stated and Fu Shen looked at his sister, as if to say it was a secret.


    "What?" Han Mo looked at his sweet lover, "You¡­"


    "Master Mo," Fu Shen turned to him with a deep sigh, "I cannot leave. I will miss you too much."


    Han Mo felt his entire body flush, before his heart flew out of his chest and into his lover''s hands. He pulled his lover to him and kissed so deep, Fu Shen was lightheaded when they parted. He went forward to kiss his dear Fu Shen again, but the loud cough shook him from the undeniable love he had for his lover.


    "My apologies," Han Mo grinned, "I am honored, my sweet Fu Shen wish to be beside me. Will you be alright on your own, Li Chu?"


    "No, brother Mo," Li Yun smiled when she saw the shock color his face, "I will join her."


    "Ah Yun-"


    "You made you decision, sweet Shen," Yun looked at his brother, the child she had taken in, "Brother Mo will care for you."


    Han Mo found himself laughing and grinning, as he kissed Fu Shen''s cheek. Interlocking their fingers, he looked at Li Chu and Li Hien who were smiling at him.


    "I will care for Fu Shen all my life."


    "Master Mo¡­"


    "Hm?"


    "I will as well."


    "Ah! Fu Shen! You make it hard for me to not kiss you," Han Mo whined and tried to kiss Fu Shen again, but the palm stopped his lips.


    "Save face," Fu Shen whispered and Han Mo laughed with a nod.


    "Anything for you," he whispered softly.


    It was Fu Shen''s turn to flush red, but he smiled softly as he looked at the fingers interlocking his. He looked over at his master and caught golden eyes looking at him either the same look he had always seen on the older man''s face. Now he knew what it meant.


    Love.


    ''My king, thank you. Master Mo truly does love me.''

 Chapter 214 - Epilogue Part 1- Call Him Papa

    Xu Lan was making his rounds around the sectors like he had always done since-


    The students were travelling to help all the villages, even those far in at the end of the river and far across the desert. It had been so many moons since- and tomorrow would be the Autumn Festival. With the banners, the red lanterns, and the smell of food in the air, it should make Xu Lan happy.


    It didn''t.


    Every year when the Autumn Festival came, he would visit the lake and go to their shrine. The one that was for the Ghost King now was changed to Uncle Li and Uncle Yue. He would pray to them, offer them mooncakes, and would stare at their statues until the sun had gone down.


    Mo Chou would join him after praying to his brother- Feng Zhi. The navy haired man would hold him, and comfort him when he was in tears. He was thankful for his lover. His husband never complained, just stroke his hair and lay kisses on his lips. Sometimes, Mo Chou would bring their gifted guqins and they would try to play his uncles'' song, but both Mo Chou and he were not musically talented.


    Taking a deep breath, he finished his rounds and made sure to increase the charm''s strengths as he did his patrol. When he returned home, it was dark out and the stars sprinkled the sky. He jumped to the roof of the school and stared at the moon. His lips would pull into a smile and he would remember his uncles smiling down at him.


    Arms would wrap about his waist from behind and he would feel the warmth against his back. Feeling a deep exhale against his ear, he placed his hands on top of his lover''s.


    "Are you alright?"


    "Tomorrow¡­"


    "I know, my darling¡­" Mo Chou sighed and pressed closer, "Wanna know something super weird?"


    "What is it?"


    Xu Lan turned away from the moon to face his lover. He saw warm brown eyes crinkled and felt lips on his. He kissed back and held Mo Chou in his arms. He really loves Mo Chou. He really, really-


    "Ah Lan, my dearest love," Mo Chou bit and pulled his lip, "Let us go to bed. Let me please you."


    It no longer bothered him when Mo Chou spoke in such ways. It made him feel¡­ more loved by his partner, if that even made sense. He was glad he was still attractive to his husband because he had seen people looking at his lover, looking at him with a certain look that he didn''t like. Whether Mo Chou knew about it or not, the navy haired man would kiss him in public, causing him to flush deeply. However, when his lover kissed him in front of those who were lusting after his husband, he had no problem kissing back deeply.


    This only led to the two of them making love in their room and him leaving hickeys where his husband could not hide them. Mo Chou didn''t care. He paraded with them easily, almost proudly.


    "I must speak with my father first."


    Mo Chou left another kiss on his lips, before jumping down to their room. He went to his father''s room, knocking first before opening it. He found his father and mother sitting at the floor table in the corner. They were drinking tea and speaking softly. His mother was aging, while his father still looked in his prime.


    He had told his father to gift his mother or that he could like he did to Mo Chou, but Nuying shook her head and wiped the tears from his eyes. She had told him she wish to die peacefully with them by her side. He still didn''t understand why she would wish it, but his father accepted it.


    He had to as well.


    Joining them, he smiled when his mother''s fingers touched his cheek and his father poured him a cup of tea.


    "Are you alright?" NuYing questioned knowing tomorrow was a day her son mourned the loss of his uncles.


    "Mm, I think I''ll go to the temple early tomorrow. Is that alright? I enhanced all the charms around the sectors."


    "Yes," Xu Ling nodded, "Tomorrow, do not forget to bring the sweets and your uncle''s favorite soup."


    "I won''t."


    After speaking with his family, he returned to his room where his husband was waiting. He disrobed and slipped under the covers to wrap his arms around Mo Chou. Brown eyes watched him with softened eyes and ran slender fingers through his pink locks.


    "What was super weird?" Xu Lan questioned quietly.


    "Oh," Mo Chou sounded before he laughed, "Well¡­ Ye Wu wants to visit."


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "But¡­"


    "Mm."


    "Isn''t¡­"


    "Yup."


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "Does he need a place to stay?"


    "Are you¡­ offering a room for them?"


    "Yes."


    "You¡­ are okay with it?"


    "Yes."


    "Why?"


    "Well¡­ he is my grandfather, right?"


    Mo Chou stared at him blinking wide brown eyes, before his lover laughed loudly and pressed their noses together.


    "Call him Papa Wu."


    ==


    Morning came and Pang Xi and Ye Wu arrived.


    Xu Ling frowned and the demon just grinned at him. Han Mo was with Fu Shen preparing the meals and when the brunette saw the demon and their master, he dropped a plate of prepared meats. Eyes turned to him and Han Mo just stared.


    "Ah Mo?" Fu Shen questioned and glanced at the newcomers, "Are you alright?"


    "Uh¡­" Han Mo blinked and blinked, "I''m sorry. I''ll clean it in a bit. I''m going to welcome the guests."


    "I will too," Fu Shen stated and he was going to shake his head, but the fingers interlocking his¡­ how was he to say no to his beautiful Fu Shen?


    "Stop looking at us like we are evil," Ye Wu huffed and turned to Pang Xi, "See. I told you they would not be welcoming."


    "If you wish for us to leave, we will. It will not be a problem."


    "Why do you even want to be on the surface?" Xu Ling questioned with narrowed eyes.


    "I wanted to meet my king''s family and experience the happiness of this festival," Pang Xi looked over to the red hanging lantern on the shingle, "I never really had an Autumn Festival celebration. The Ghost King was always happiest this day."


    Xu Ling felt his face softened remembering his master. Han Mo and Fu Shen greeted the guests and they heard Ye Wu laughing.


    "So you finally did it! Geez, here I thought Ah Li would never let that child go."


    "I''m¡­ sorry?" Fu Shen furrowed his white brows and looked over at Han Mo.


    "He gave his blessings. Trust me, I thought I would never win his heart," he looked over at Fu Shen and attempted to kiss the boy''s cheek, but Fu Shen stopped his lips with his palm.


    "Save face, Master Mo."


    He laughed and nodded. They could hear an argument nearing them and they turned to see Mo Chou clinging to Xu Lan, who was pouting and stomping toward them. Black eyes brightened and he turned to his husband. Brown eyes looked over, before they fixed themselves to be presentable.


    "Papa Wu and Papa Xi, welcome to our home."


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "Did¡­ Did¡­" Ye Wu stuttered out.


    "Papa?" Pang Xi questioned softly with his cheeks warmed.

 Chapter 215 - Alt. Epilogue: 1 Of 10- Then You Are Beautiful

    "Welcome Papa Wu and Papa Xi," Mo Chou laughed into his grin.


    "Mo Chou," Ye Wu reached out and attempted to choke the boy, "How dare you- you stupid dog! I will kill you!"


    "Papa Wu, if you harm my husband, I will need to fight you," Xu Lan stated and red eyes stared at him with jaws dropped.


    "Oh my Netherworld! You sound just like him," Ye Wu cried and grabbed the pinkette into his arms, "Ah, you''ve controlled both really well," the demon sighed and pulled away, "Ah Li had worried for some time. He would be happy."


    Xu Lan''s face brightened and he grinned, causing Ye Wu to gush over the pinkette.


    "So much like him," the demon covered his ruby eyes, "Ah Xi, I think I will die just staring at this boy."


    Pang Xi laughed and pulled Ye Wu to him and smiled at the pinkette.


    "We thank you, Xu Lan. Our king loves you and speaks of you."


    "He does?! What, what does he say?"


    Pang Xi chuckled and opened his mouth, but there was a screaming from the entrance. They turned and rushed to find their eyes wide and mouth dropped.


    There at the entrance was a young boy with raven hair and silver eyes. From the looks of the marks and scars, they could tell the boy had gone through a fight. What was even more surprising was the other boy, platinum blonde hair and bright green eyes, being piggyback ride by the raven haired boy. This boy had no marks on him like the raven haired boy, but green eyes were wide and staring at them with fear.


    The only thing that kept crossing Xu Lan''s mind was¡­ They looked like¡­ Were they¡­


    ==


    Xu Lan kept staring as Han Mo checked over the raven boy''s injuries. The platinum blonde did not have any, so the brunette focused on spreading the ointment onto the opened wounds and scratches on the raven haired boy''s skin. He glanced at the others to see them all thinking the same thing. Were they¡­ Could they be them?


    "Ah Li?" The platinum blonde questioned with teary green eyes.


    "I am alright, Ah Yue," the raven haired boy said squeezing the blonde''s hand with his silver eyes closed.


    "It is worse. What if they¡­ Just¡­ It is okay Ah Li. I will go with them. You don''t have to protect me anymore."


    "Ah Yue," the raven haired boy stated sternly and the blond flinched from the tone, "I am sorry," the boy sighed, "Cultivators, we have traveled far. I ask for you help. There have been men trying to take Ah Yue away for¡­" the boy frowned deeply, "Will you kill them for us?"


    "Yes," Ye Wu said quickly as he stepped forward and cupped the boy''s face to see surprised silver eyes, "Anything for you, my king."


    "Ah Wu¡­" Pang Xi started unsure what he wanted to say.


    "You can''t have him!" The platinum blonde frowned and pushed himself in between the raven haired boy and the demon, "I won''t let you!"


    "And what is a little child like you going to do about it?" Ye Wu taunted and suddenly felt the punch to his cheek. It didn''t hurt, but¡­ That child had just hit him! Growling, he stepped forward to feel a blade pressed to his neck.


    Red eyes stared into silver ones as the blonde was tucked behind the raven haired boy. That determination, that look, that stance¡­ It had to be-


    "What is your name?" He questioned as his heart was jumping quickly.


    "Do not touch Ah Yue."


    "I won''t if you tell me your name."


    "Wang Li," the boy stated and he laughed so hard, tears were falling off his eyes.


    "And you, blonde one?"


    "Ying Yue."


    This only caused the demon to fall to his knees as his body shook with joyous tears. Ye Wu had thought he would never get the chance to meet Wang Li ever again, but here he was a child. He felt arms around him and he leaned against Pang Xi, crying loudly into his lover''s shoulder.


    "Is¡­ Is he alright?" Ying Yue questioned coming away from Wang Li''s back.


    "Uncl- Ying Yue," Xu Lan smiled so wide, his cheeks were going to hurt later, "He is just happy. For, for the men who are after you, where are they?"


    "Are you going to kill them?" Wang Li questioned returning the blade he had grabbed off Han Mo, "I apologize for taking your weapon, cultivator."


    "It¡­ not a problem," Han Mo spoke softly still trying to understand what was happening.


    "We do not kill, child. We will stop them from harassing your friend and others," Xu Ling stated clearly, "Give us their location."


    "You do not kill, but you can hurt them badly, right?" Wang Li questioned and he saw the slight quirk at the corner of the redhead and he grinned, "Very well."


    Xu Lan wasn''t sure if he wanted to stay and stare at his uncles as children again or beat the crap out of those who ever laid hands on them. His father made the decision to leave with Pang Xi and Mo Chou, while NuYing, Fu Shen, Han Mo, Ye Wu, and himself took care of the children. It still felt weird calling his uncles children, but he was extremely happy they were together again.


    "How did you two meet?" Xu Lan questioned as they ate.


    "Well," Ying Yue spoke softly looking at his meal, "My mother travelled a lot and in one of her travels, I met Ah Li. He didn''t like me. Said I was annoying and to stop following him."


    Wang Li chuckled lightly as the boy continued to eat.


    "Why are you laughing! I was really sad, you know. I wanted to be friends and you just wanted me to go away."


    "You were annoying and following me a lot, even when I went to relieve myself."


    "¡­"


    "But, I also know what they were going to do to you and I could not let that happen," Wang Li cupped the boy''s cheek with a hand, "So we ran and I fought back while Ah Yue hid. I spoke to a wandering cultivator and they spoke with those men, but nothing happened. They chased us harder and fought harder, so I made sure we came here, in hopes to find protection."


    "I will always protect you, Ah Li," Ye Wu stated feeding a mooncake to the boy, "If I had caught you before you entered this school, I would had killed them gladly."


    The demon pouted and silver eyes crinkled biting into the mooncake.


    "I like you."

 Chapter 216 - Alt. Epilogue: 2 Of 10- Im Not Convinced Yet

    Ye Wu preened and his eyes sparkled. Before he could even hugged his dear king, the blonde had kneed up on the seat and sent glaring green eyes at him. A fist before him like a warning and Ye Wu laughed shaking his head.


    "So bold."


    "Ah Yue," Wang Li sighed with a smile, "Stop being upset."


    "I don''t like him," Ying Yue whispered making sure to press close to his friend.


    Wang Li laughed and placed his forehead against the blonde, earning a smile on plumped lips.


    "I am yours, Ah Yue."


    "Truly? You promised, remember?"


    "Mm. I promised. Now, stop being clingy. We are with good people. We will be safe."


    "Okay," Ying Yue smiled brightly and held onto Wang Li''s hand.


    Xu Lan felt his heart beating softly to how his uncles were behaving. Smiling, he closed his eyes and remembered a time when he would see this exact thing from their adult forms. It was as if nothing had changed between his uncles and he wondered if the Jade Emperor had left a little of their love, left something for them to return to one another.


    ''Jade Emperor, if this is your doing, I thank you.''


    "You said you both ran away meaning you left your parents. Are they not worried?" Fu Shen questioned and filled their bowls and plate.


    Wang Li stared into purple eyes for a moment and he smiled.


    "You have nice eyes, cultivator. It suits you."


    Fu Shen startled and he felt his cheeks warmed. This child with the name of his king had just complimented him just like his king had before. It was unnerving and yet his heart was beating against his chest. Clearing his throat, he bowed thanking the child and went to stand close to a sitting Han Mo. The brunette master smirked and placed a kiss to his lover''s temple and glanced over to see silver eyes narrow slightly.


    "My mother is probably worried. I didn''t tell her I was leaving. It was sudden and Ah Li said he was going to protect me and I believe him. He is strong and smart," Ying Yue answered with a grin.


    "Then shouldn''t we speak with her?" Nuying questioned.


    "His mother was pawning him off to the highest bidder, miss. She only worries that she will not receive her payment," Wang Li stated and looked to his friend, "You know this, do you not?"


    Ying Yue had furrowed brows and a pout. Wang Li sighed and shook his head.


    "See. You are innocent, na?ve. That is why you are easy, Ah Yue. My father loves you."


    "He does?" Ying Yue smiled, "I like him too."


    "No, Ah Yue. He loves you in a way he should not," Wang Li stated with a serious tone and face stern, "I wanted to kill him in his sleep for even thinking of laying hands on you."


    Ying Yue''s eyes widened before they watered.


    "My father was Ah Yue''s biggest payer. That was why his mother continued to come to my home. If we had stayed for another day, Ah Yue would had been bought and touched. I could not let my father do something so disgusting and shameful."


    "The wounds you have, there were old ones too. Were they from¡­" Han Mo started.


    "My father. Yes."


    "Ah Li! You, you told me they were from your falls. Why didn''t you tell me?" Ying Yue wiped his tears with his sleeve, "Your father is a bad man!"


    "Yes," Wang Li sighed and pulled the blonde to his chest, "I promise to protect you for the rest of my life, Ah Yue. I am yours."


    Ying Yue pulled back and smiled shyly with a flush over his freckled cheeks.


    "I am yours as well, Ah Li."


    Wang Li smiled and wiped the tear streaks off the milky cheeks. However, he suddenly felt arms around him and he heard the growl. Glancing to the side, the demon had stuffed his face into his nape.


    "I will kill that disgusting piece of trash!" Ye Wu shouted as he stood up suddenly, "No one like him should live! I will tear his soul apart and feed it to the pit!"


    "We cannot just kill-" Han Mo tried, but the demon banged his fist onto the table.


    "He is not innocent, cultivator. You saw the marks, you know what that bastard had done! You are of the Heavens, you cannot permit this to continue!"


    "What is he talking about, Ah Li?" Ying Yue questioned and Wang Li just closed his eyes.


    "Fu Shen," Xu Lan stated coldly, "You and Master Mo will go see Wang Li''s father."


    "Lan-er," Han Mo tried softly noticing the change in his nephew.


    "Uncle. If you do not go, I will ask that Papa Wu go."


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "Alright," Han Mo looked to Fu Shen and he sent worried looks to his nephew. It was rare for Xu Lan to give into his demon side. Glancing at the bracelet wrapped around the pinkette''s wrist, it was filled with inky black.


    Xu Lan was left with the head demon who was eyeing him closely and the two young children seeming to wait for him to speak. He clenched his hands into fists and shut his eyes. He suddenly felt a body leaned against his side and a pat to his arm.


    "Sir cultivator, please do not be angry. You saved us. We are safe. Ah Li said so. He is right, right?"


    He looked down to see his kind uncle, now a child, looking at him with such green eyes and soft smile. A look he remembered and his eyes began to water. Offering a watery smile, he nodded and looked over at his unc- at Wang Li to see silver eyes staring at him with furrowed brows.


    "Since you both have no place to stay, stay here with us. We will protect you and all we ask is to be kind to one another. That is all."


    "Really?" Ying Yue grinned and ran over to embrace Wang Li, "Isn''t that great Ah Li? You won''t need to fight anymore and we could play!"


    "I could protect you too," Ye Wu grinned staring at his little king, "In the Netherworld."


    "Netherworld?" Wang Li said those words quietly and Ying Yue quickly shook his head.


    "No. Netherworld is for the dead, Papa Wu. When you visit, you can protect us!"


    The platinum blonde hugged the demon and Ye Wu went rigid. This was¡­ wait¡­ did Ying Yue just called him-


    "Papa Wu?!" He cried pulling the blonde off him.


    "My apologies," Yung Yue quickly bowed, "Cultivator."


    "Cultivator?!"


    "Sir."


    Ye Wu rubbed his face with a groan. Even as children they were going to kill him.


    "We can visit both," Wang Li stated, "I thank you both for your offer. We accept."


    When those who left to handle the situation came back, Wang Li found his lips curling when he saw a splatter of blood on the redhead''s and the white hair cultivator''s sleeve. He was going to like it here. Looking over at the platinum blonde, his silver eyes softened when he saw the relaxed smile on Ying Yue''s face.


    Green eyes looked over to him.


    "Ah Li, we are finally going to be happy."


    "Were you not happy before?"


    Ying Yue laughed and wrapped his arms around Wang Li, leaning into the warmth.


    "Always with you."


    Wang Li smiled and hugged back, nuzzling the platinum blonde hair.


    "We are finally home, Ah Yue."


    Their foreheads touched and they stood there holding one another under the moonlight.


    For their audience, they were just happy that the fated couple had returned to one another. They were not bound to the heavens or to the demons. They were free and now, safe to do whatever they wish. Xu Lan was sure that when his uncles become old enough, they would marry like before. He glanced to see his father holding his mother, Uncle Mo and Fu Shen with fingers interlocked, and Papa Xi and Papa Wu embracing one another.


    He felt the light shoulder bump and looked to see warm brown eyes watching him amused, before watching the two children holding each other''s hands.


    "This is a gift, is it not, my darling," Mo Chou said softly, "Now it is our turn to watch them grow."


    Xu Lan found his lips stretching into a smile and he nodded.


    "Yes."


    His prayer came true. His uncles found one another again. He leaned against his lover and closed his eyes.


    ''Thank you.''


    [[End]]

 Chapter 217 - Alt. Epilogue: 3 Of 10- Your Natural Scent Is Better

    "My host is here."


    "Don''t you dare hang up you fucking piece of-"


    Wang Li ended the call and offered a smile to the blonde.


    "Your parents are kind."


    "Thank you," Ying Yue smiled, "Are you alright?"


    "Mm."


    "Your fists¡­"


    Wang Li let out a sigh and loosed his hands. Sliding the phone into his pocket, he stared at the furrowed brows and pursed lips. Ying Yue was looking at him, then looked away, before looking at him again.


    "Ah Li¡­"


    "Hm."


    "The person on the phone, was it your mother?"


    "You could hear her?"


    "Not clearly, but she was screaming. Is everything alright?"


    "Do not worry, Ah Yue. I''m going to finish homework before I sleep."


    Ying Yue nodded and joined him. His mother entered to offer blankets and pillows, pleased that her son was getting along well with their guest. Once they finished their work, set the floor to sleep, Wang Li watched the platinum blonde snore lightly beside him. Moving gently out of the covers, he opened his bag and pulled out a sketchpad. Staring at the blonde again, he began sketching his muse.


    Ying Yue woke up to the light peeking through his curtain. Blinking slowly, he saw that the space Wang Li slept was empty. Pushing himself up, he rubbed his eyes and looked around. They would be heading to school in an hour, so he decided to go get a quick shower before making a quick breakfast for them.


    His parents worked early, so he wasn''t worried about making noises. Grabbing his towel, he headed to the bathroom. Opening it, he set the towel aside and reached to pull the curtain, only to have someone do it first.


    His golden eyes blinked and blinked.


    Wang Li, with his naked wet body, stared at him before reaching for the towel he had just brought in.


    "Thank you for the towel. I didn''t know where you had them."


    Ying Yue did not reply, still staring with wide eyes and mouth opened. Wang Li pushed his forehead softly and it woke him up. Milky skin suddenly doused in red and he turned away, running back to his room to hide under the covers. He stayed under even when Wang Li entered dressed and his alarm told him it was time to head to school.


    "I apologize, Ah Yue, if I startled you."


    Wang Li lifted the cover and Ying Yue avoided his eyes.


    "I¡­ I am okay," he offered a smile and quickly threw the covers off and changed his clothes. Wang Li left the room for his host''s privacy and went to the kitchen. Grabbing two bottles of strawberry flavored protein shakes, he joined Ying Yue when he emerged from the room.


    "Oh, good choice!" Ying Yue smiled and thanked him as he locked the door.


    Wang Li got on the bike and he sat on the handles.


    It felt like a routine already. He closed his eyes and leaned back smelling the jasmine scent from the body soap.


    "Ah Li."


    "Hm?"


    "Let''s stop by the store on our way back from school."


    "Did you need to pick something up?"


    "Just non-scented soap and," he tilted his head back to sniff Wang Li''s hair, "Hair products."


    "You don''t like the smell?"


    "I do," he smiled holding the curve of the handle as he smiled before him, "I think your natural scent is better though."


    He heard the chuckle and then felt chest pressed to his back.


    "I like yours as well, Ah Yue."


    Laughing softly, he grinned and watched as they turned a corner where the school was visible.


    "Why did you have so many female products?"


    "Oh, Jia Le was actually the person I was supposed to host."


    "Oh."


    "I am glad though, Ah Li, or else we wouldn''t be friends."


    "I agree."


    They arrived and the rest of the school days went by easily. Nothing strange occurring, the female from before avoided them, and it felt like Wang Li was a part of the school already. But every night while he slept, the silver eyed guest would stare at him, making light sketches on the pad.


    Today was the last day he was going to host Wang Li, so his parents gave him extra money to take Wang Li out one last time. Because it was summer weather, the carnival was open. That was the place he wanted to take Wang Li. So arriving back home, he told the silver eyed boy he wanted to take him out, to enjoy their last day together. They changed out of their uniform into something more comfortable, before heading to the carnival.


    "Is the carnival here different than where you are?" Ying Yue asked as he bought strawberry drizzled chocolate crepes for his guest.


    "I''ve never been to a carnival."


    "Really?! Then, then I will be a good host an entertain you, Ah Li!"


    ''You already are, Ah Yue.''


    Nodding his head, Wang Li followed and ate the sweets he was given. He played the games and rode rides all with a smile beside the blonde. The twinkling of the stars were beginning to sprinkle the sky as the moon peeked through. Wang Li stared at the moon before glancing at the blonde currently trying to fill the balloon to pop.


    ''His name is quite fitting.''


    "Sorry, miss, you lost again."


    Ying Yue dropped his shoulders and sighed, looking longingly at the big snow leopard hanging in the back. He felt fingers slid down his head to ran lightly down his nape. His body shivered involuntarily and he could feel the heat of his guest standing beside his seated position.


    "Ah Yue, there are five other games that have the leopard. Let us go elsewhere instead."


    "But sir, try again! I will give you an extra minute."


    Ying Yue''s ears perked up, but Wang Li shook his head.


    "Give him three."


    "Three? No, no I can''t."


    "Then we will try the darts. Ah Yue, I am good at it. I will win you that leopard."


    "Whoa, whoa, no need to rush! 3 minutes. Go on."


    "Really?!" Ying Yue grinned and readied himself to win this time. That cat was going to be his!


    Wang Li paid this time since he was running out of money. When he mentioned it, his guest only shook his head and said he had plenty, so he should also enjoy his time as well.


    "Ah Yue, focus beside the dot after the balloon looks like it won''t get bigger," Wang Li leaned to whisper in his ear.


    Ah, there went his heart dancing against his chest again.

 Chapter 220 - Alt. Epilogue: 4 Of 10- Will You Miss Me?

    Nodding, he followed the instruction, feeling comfort in the warm palm on his back. The balloon stopped growing so he shot the water slightly to the left and his eyes widened when the balloon continued to grow. Grinning, he could see the red latex expand bigger and bigger.


    "Now, to the other side."


    He followed and he was at the edge of his seat when the redness became translucent. Then, then the balloon finally popped, gushing from the excess of water. Lifting his arms up in the air, he screamed happily as he slid off the chair. Turning to Wang Li, he grabbed him into a hug and laughed with a grin. The silver eyed boy wrapped his arms around him and they were pressed to one another.


    The excitement dulled slightly as his heart slowed. The heat remained, licking and rubbing against his chest, cheeks, and ears. Ying Yue flushed and pulled slightly away to stare at Wang Li.


    Spending so much time together, this was bound to happen to him, right? He did just about everything with Wang Li since his guest arrived. They ate together, went to school together, did homework together, and slept together¡­


    ''Wait¡­ no! Not that.''


    He found his face heating up even more and he pulled away out of the embrace. Clearing his throat, he saw the man in charged of the game watching them with amusement.


    "What would you like? Any in the back or two of the ones hanging?"


    "The Big Snow Leopard," Wang Li stated and the man went to grab it.


    "Ah Li, maybe we should get two small leopards, one for you and me."


    Wang Li shook his head and grabbed the big leopard to hand to the blonde. He found himself laughing seeing the big stuffed animal was just as big as his host. Wang Li took the soft hand into his to steer Ying Yue to the last ride they had not done. Standing in line, he saw his classmates, Fu Meng and Jia Le, were also in the line ahead of them.


    "Ah Yue," a few classmates greeted, "Oh, Ah Li, hello."


    "Wow, what a big leopard!"


    "I won it!" Ying Yue said proudly with a grin and holding the toy closer.


    "Congrats Ah Yue!"


    Wang Li listened in on the conversation and spoke when he wanted to. When it was their turn, Ying Yue and Wang Li sat on one side, while the snow leopard laid on the opposite end. The metals churned and they were lifted around and around until the were stopped in the air. The cool air of the night felt good against Ying Yue''s warm skin. He looked over at Wang Li who was staring at the bright full moon.


    ''He is¡­ truly handsome and kind. I will miss him.''


    He found his heart ached, but he shook it away. A thumb smoother over his and he looked down to realize they were still holding hands. Biting his lips, he wondered if Wang Li knew.


    "Ah Yue," Wang Li said softly, "I won''t see you for a long time. Will you miss me?"


    He felt the squeeze to his hand and he squeezed back, nodding his head.


    "Yes, Ah Li. I will miss you."


    "Good," the moon-lit eyed teen smiled pleased.


    "Eh? What, what about you? Will you miss me?"


    "Everyday," Wang Li said softly and his face bloomed in the color of a rose. He pressed his face against the guest''s shoulder and closed his eyes.


    "Only because you got used to me."


    "Maybe."


    They were silent and they both watched the moon. Their seat moved closer and closer to the bottom before they were released out of the cart. Now, standing before the red bike, Ying Yue realized he should had gotten the smaller toys.


    "Come Ah Yue, just hold it tightly as I ride us home."


    Although it was a struggle, they made it back home. Entering quietly, they slipped off their shoes and entered his room. Plopping down exhausted, he sighed onto his cat and smiled. Wang Li had changed clothes while Ying Yue''s eyes were closed. When the silver eyed teen turned to face the blonde, he could hear the soft snores leaving plump lips. Sighing out a smile, he placed a soft kiss to his host''s forehead, so gentle, Wang Li wondered if Ying Yue would feel it.


    Morning came washing over them.


    Ying Yue woke, fluttering his lashes, and came face to face with the raven haired teen. He watched as his guest breathed softly and his eyes softened. He squeezed the stuff animal he was laying on top of. His golden eyes took in the relaxed features making Wang Li look young. He smiled and he lifted his fingers, hovering, gliding over temple and jawline. Sighing softly, he sat up cautiously and left the room.


    His parents were still there and he smiled to them.


    "Is he still asleep?" His father asked putting the cake into the box.


    "Mm," he nodded and looked at the cake his parents had made for their guest.


    "Will you be alright?" His mother questioned touching his head.


    His eyes teared up, but he nodded, offering a wavering smile.


    He helped tie the bow and looked over when footsteps entered the kitchen. Wang Li wore the clothes he came with the first time. It just proved to him how long ago it felt since his guest came.


    "Good morning, Wang Li. Did you sleep well?" His father questioned.


    "I did. Thank you for hosting me. You have all been very kind."


    "You were a great guest," his father laughed and cupped Wang Li''s shoulder.


    The sound of a car pulled up to the house and Ying Yue felt his heart dropped.


    "Your ride is here," his mother sighed and called for him to bring the gift as they headed outside.


    Holding the box in his hands, he watched as an older man got out of the driver''s side door and opened the backseat door. His parents sent their wishes and Wang Li was now watching him. Silver eyes assessed him and Ying Yue told himself they would still be friends.


    Although they both had phones, Wang Li said he couldn''t share his number. The moonlit eyed man mentioned his mother controlled everything, so it wasn''t possible.


    ["Then, can I send you letters?"


    "No. It would be thrown away," Wang Li touched his wrist, "It isn''t that I don''t want you to contact me. I do, but I know what my mother will do. Ah Yue, we will meet again, I promise."]


    Ying Yue closed his eyes and steadied his resolved.


    He wasn''t losing a friend. He wasn''t.

 Chapter 221 - Alt. Epilogue: 5 Of 10- No Mask, No Entrance

    "Thank you, Ah Li," he walked up to the teen, "I¡­ Here."


    Wang Li took the box and smiled, thanking him and his parents. Fingers moved to cup his cheek and his heart stuttered. They stared at one another for a moment, trying to memorize one another longer.


    "I will miss you, Ah Yue."


    "I will miss you too, Ah Li."


    Ying Yue whispered back and Wang Li smiled and pulled away. The warmth that covered his cheek was now cold as he watched his friend entered the car. His heart constricted and his nose itched as he watched the car pull away. Arms wrapped around him and he cried.


    His parents shushed him and comforted him as best they could. He thanked them and said he wanted to go back to bed. Walking into his bedroom, the blankets were all folded and his room looked like Wang Li was never there. He closed the door with a sigh. His eyes slide along his room and he noticed there was a letter at his desk.


    Walking over to pick it up, he smiled recognizing Wang Li''s handwriting.


    ''To My Gracious Host''


    He ran his fingers over the ink softly. Opening the letter, he pulled out a card and a golden pin. The card was decorated with lace and saturated colors. A mask was on the cover and he hummed to himself. Opening the card, it was an invitation three months from now to a masquerade ball. Requirements: a mask and a formal attire. He smiled and looked at the golden pin, a phoenix etched in holding a silver gem.


    ''Like Wang Li''s eyes¡­''


    "Ah Li," he stared at the date again, "I will see you again on my birthday."


    ==


    His parents approved of him going to the ball, but they made sure to go through the safety precautions with him. He was going to Wang Li''s province this time and he worried he would get lost, but he was determined to see his friend again.


    He had turned eighteen today and seeing his friend again would be the best gift he would receive.


    He took the train with his duffle bag where his suit, the pin, and his nice shoes were perfectly placed. Watching the leaves change color and the sky lightly colored in oranges and reds, he relaxed smiling to himself. Taking out his phone, he looked at the picture they had taken.


    ["What will I have to remember you?" He whispered when the day neared for their goodbyes.


    "You want to remember me?" Wang Li whispered back in the darkness of their room.


    "Of course. We are friends, aren''t we?" Ying Yue clutched his hands to his chest, looking away from the silver eyed teen.


    "Of course."


    Fingers touched the side of his head and slid down to pull strands toward the raven haired male. His golden eyes watched as the teen rubbed his ear, as if to make a wish upon it. The more Wang Li rubbed, the more his eyelashes fluttered and his mouth parted slightly. His head tilted toward the touch and he bit his lips mewling.


    When fingers pulled away, he was flushing.


    "A picture then, Ah Yue."


    Wang Li watched as the flush hid the blonde''s freckles and the tongue wetting red lips.


    "Are you certain you are single?" He questioned aloud.


    "Yes."


    "You are quite beautiful, Ah Yue."


    "Ah," Ying Yue covered his face and sat up, "S¡­ Stop making my blush, Ah Li. My face would look like a tomato in the picture."


    Wang Li chuckled and sat up as well. Ying Yue turned on the lights and took his phone. Aiming the camera on them, Wang Li sat close to him and wrapped his arms around his waist. He leaned against the hold and turned to aim his big doe eyes at the silver eyed boy. His guest looked at him as well, nose close, and the sound of a click filtered through his ear.


    Looking at his phone, he saw there was a picture taken and he heard the light laugh. Smiling, they both took another one, side by side, looking at the camera.


    "Take care of them, Ah Yue. I would like to see them when we meet again."


    "Okay, Ah Li. I will."]


    He found himself chuckling as he stared at the side by side pic. He swiped to the left and stared at the one where their eyes were on one another. He looked caught by surprised with his eyes wide and mouth parted, but Wang Li¡­


    ''Sneaky,'' Ying Yue thought with a smile.


    Pocketing his phone, he made sure to find and reunite with Wang Li.


    ==


    Entering the motel he was staying for the night, he looked at the time and saw he had a couple hours before the ball started. So making himself presentable, he put on his blue suit and pants over his white collared shirt and red bowtie. Pinning the golden phoenix onto his lapel, he stared at his hair.


    What should he do with it?


    "In a ponytail," Ying Yue held his hair up, "Half pony?"


    Sighing, he frowned crossing his arms. In the end, he ended up doing nothing to it.


    As his driver pulled up to the address, his eyes widened to see the big house like those fancy ones he saw in the movies. Thanking his driver, he got out of the car and walked up the walkway to the entrance of the mansion. He could hear people inside already and saw some entering dressed in their finest clothes.


    He looked back at his suit and swallowed down his nerves.


    His family was not rich, but they were kind enough to buy this outfit for his birthday. It wasn''t brand name like he knew these other people wore, but it would do¡­ hopefully. Shaking his nerves away, he walked up to the man and smiled.


    "Uh, I was invited here."


    The man assessed him from head to toe.


    "Mask."


    Ying Yue nodded and reached inside his coat for the mask, a simple foldable one that covered his eyes, but it was not there. Quickly checking his other pocket, he felt empty air. His eyes widened and he could feel sweat producing across his skin.


    ''No¡­ come on. I have it somewhere!''


    "No mask, no entrance."

 Chapter 222 - Alt. Epilogue: 6 Of 10- Hello

    "I¡­ Then¡­ is someone named Wang Li here? Can you get him? I only wish to speak with him."


    "Everyone wants to speak with him. No mask, no entrance."


    Ying Yue''s face dropped and his shoulders slouched. He was not going to see Wang Li because he was stupid and forgotten to bring a mask. He stepped back so the others can enter. Taking out his phone, he went back down the walkway with his head down. He was hesitating on calling for a driver to take him back to the motel and be sad about missing his opportunity to meet his friend again. Maybe he would pick up a cake for himself.


    ''What a birthday¡­'' He sighed for the umpteenth time and gnawed lightly on his bottom lip.


    He turned back to the man who was nodding to some and shaking his heads to others. He wondered if those who didn''t pass¡­ if he could ask them to borrow their mask. Would it be wrong to do? All the man said was for him to have a mask¡­


    "I can''t believe we didn''t get in!"


    "No one told us about a pendant thingy."


    "Shit! Let''s call Trish and tell her to steal some."


    Ying Yue automatically covered his, the one Wang Li gave him, and turned away from those men. Why steal someone''s pin just to get into a masquerade ball? That seemed too extreme to him. He walked around pretending like he was just strolling until those guys left.


    Well, there goes his plan.


    Looking at the large house, his eyes trailed each window hoping maybe he could catch a glimpse of his friend, but the windows were blacked out and he could see nothing. Looking down at his phone, he called for a driver.


    "Hello, yes, can I have someone picked me up?" He said into his speaker and told them the address, "Yes, my name is-"


    "Ying Yue?"


    Ying Yue''s heart stopped for a moment and he turned slowly to¡­


    Not see Wang Li.


    A medium sized box was held out to him and he thanked the person giving it to him.


    "Hello, sir?"


    The lady questioned and he cancelled the ride with an apology. Hanging up the call, he opened the box and his eyes widened. Glancing to where the person left, he stared at the mask. It was white with golden laced trims swirling like vines. It was not a cheap mask from the weight and feel of the ceramic. A small folded paper was underneath it and he opened it to read, ''Happy Birthday.''


    Face blossoming in brightness as his grin spread across his face, he placed the gifted mask on his head and tucked the note into his coat pocket. Holding the wooden box, he walked up to the man with a grin. The door man assessed him for a moment, before his eyes widened slightly. Nodding his head, Ying Yue felt his heart racing.


    ''Wang Li, where are you?''


    Entering the space, he felt so out of place.


    His suit looked like cardboard compared to the silk clothing everyone was wearing. The ceiling was high and the chandelier burned through the cloth covering his eyes. People walked passed him, some bumped him, but no one acknowledge him. Okay, that was fine because all he needed to do was find Wang Li.


    He walked around like a lost lamb in a sea full of wolves.


    He was standing and he was doing his best not to stare to much at those around him. Their eyes assessed him, analyzed his worth and he tried to keep his chin up. He looked for raven hair to see plenty. He looked to find silver eyes, but many were covered. He tried to ask if anyone had seen Wang Li, but all he received were glares and confused stares.


    ''I really don''t belong in this place¡­''


    Music sounded and people were beginning to enter the dance floor. He watched people of all ages dancing and flowing to the music. Smiling, he could hear a female whispering harshly at another woman. Tilting his head, he wondered if this woman was Wang Li''s mother. She had dark hair and though her eyes were not silver, the sound of her voice reminded him of that phone call.


    He took a few steps forward, but he felt a hand on his bicep.


    Turning, he was faced to faced with a man with a red laced mask.


    "May I have this dance?"


    Ying Yue felt his heart race and his face brightened. Nodding his head, he looked around to see where he could placed the wooden box. The man in the red mask took it off his hand and held it to a female to take away. Ying Yue grinned and followed the man to the dancefloor. People step aside for them and he felt like he was a princess. Flushing from that thought, they stood facing one another. He lifted his hands, unsure where to place them.


    "I¡­"


    The man held one hand outward and placed the other on his shoulder. Ying Yue felt warm hand holding his waist lightly and he laughed softly.


    "Hello."


    "Hello."


    "I¡­ Thank you, Ah Li, for the gift."


    "it suits you, Ah Yue."


    He smiled and followed his friend''s steps. He had wanted to meet Wang Li this whole time, but now that he was before his friend¡­ He really did not know what to say or do. The music slowed, signifying the end of the dance. People were clapping and he attempted to join in, but Wang Li was still holding his hand. He looked at his friend to see him facing the direction of the woman earlier.


    "Thank you all for coming," the female greeted with her back straight and her chin high, "As you all know, it is my son''s birthday. He is of age now, so if you wish for his hand, have your parents contact me. If you are able to speak with him, heh, good luck."


    The female finished sending narrowed eyes over at Wang Li.


    ''Son? Birthday?''


    Ying Yue''s eyes widened.


    ''Marriage?!''

 Chapter 223 - Alt. Epilogue: 7 Of 10- I Want To Kiss You

    There were congratulations given to his friend and small talks, but Ying Yue was too busy with understanding that the son was Wang Li, who had the same birthday as him, and was to be arranged into marriage.


    ''Wait! Marriage?! Is he not too young?''


    He felt a tug and he stumbled, following Wang Li through a room to the gardens, to the end of the street.


    "Are you alright, Ah Yue?"


    "Uh¡­"


    A squeeze to his hand had him sputtering out.


    "Today is your birthday too? Why didn''t you tell me? And, and you are going to be married?! Aren''t you too young? What is happening?!"


    "It is," Wang Li turned back to the mansion, "Ah Yue, I will meet you at your place. Where are you staying?"


    "Um¡­" he searched his phone and showed his friend.


    "Wait for me, Ah Yue."


    "Okay¡­"


    Ying Yue was about to call for a ride, but Wang Li did it for him. The man who picked his friend up at his house brought the car around. He glanced at Wang Li and the man smiled at him. So, getting into the car, he was dropped off at the motel. Entering his room, he took off his mask and stripped into his red pajamas with white bunnies his mother bought for him.


    His stomach growled and he realized he hadn''t eaten the entire time.


    He wondered if he could call for food to be delivered, since the motel did not provide meal services. As he contemplated, he then realized Wang Li was going to meet him in his room. Quickly sitting up, he cleaned the area and made sure it was spotless. He brushed his teeth and made sure to place his gifted mask on the table.


    He smiled staring at how intricate and beautiful it was. He knew it was costly and a part of him felt bad Wang Li spent that much money on him, but the other part was extremely pleased and grateful. He heard a knock at his door and he looked through the peephole. His lips stretched into a grin and he opened his door.


    "Ah Li, that was really fast."


    "I missed you."


    Wang Li stated it like it was simple, and that did things to his insides. Clearing his throat, he stepped to the side for his friend to enter. He saw the suitcase rolled by and a pink box in Wang Li''s hand. Locking the door, Ying Yue followed to sit on the bed. He watched as Wang Li rolled his suitcase to a stop by his duffle bag and brought the pink box over.


    "Close your eyes, Ah Yue."


    "Eh? Why?"


    "Please."


    Ying Yue smiled into a giggle and nodded. Closing his eyes, he took a deep breath and relaxed. He could hear shuffling and noises, before the bed dipped. He felt fingers pushed his strands away from his face to tuck behind his ears.


    "Okay, Ah Yue. Open them."


    When Ying Yue opened his eyes, the gold in them sparkled seeing what was before him.


    In the pink box was a cake, on that cake was decorations of plum blossom frostings and his name written in blue. It read, ''Happy Birthday to my gracious host and friend, Ying Yue.''


    "If I had piping, I would add, ''and my respectful guest and friend, Wang Li.''"


    His friend grinned and a spoon was held out to him. They ate the cake silently, with their eyes glancing at one another from time to time. When their eyes caught, they would smile and looked back at the cake. Not wanting to eat anymore, Ying Yue rubbed his stomach and grinned.


    "Thank you, Ah Li. If I had known, I would have given you a gift too."


    Wang Li smiled and his silver eyes softened. Fingers reached out to wipe a frosting at the corner of his lips, before dragging over them. He parted it subconsciously and he felt the frosting at his lips. Licking it, he smiled at his friend who was just staring at him pensively.


    "Is something wrong?"


    "I want to kiss you."


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "Wh¡­ What?" He asked quietly as his face flushed deeply.


    "Ah, I¡­ I apologize, Ah Yue. You just look very beautiful, is all."


    "¡­"


    Ying Yue watched Wang Li put the leftover cake into the small fridge at the corner of the room and throw the plastic silverware away. He watched his friend enter the restroom and was in there for a while. He laid down on the bed rolling over what Wang Li said and he found his heart racing quickly.


    ''He¡­ He wants to kiss me?! What¡­ I¡­''


    He covered his face by pulling his top to cover up his nose. His golden eyes moved to see Wang Li exit the bathroom with his face and hair damp.


    "I''ll sleep on the floor, Ah Yue."


    "You¡­ You are spending the night with me?"


    "Is that alright? I could return if-"


    "No, no. I¡­ the bed is nice and comfy, Ah Li," he spoke softly with a smile.


    "The floor still is a contender," Wang Li smiled back just as soft.


    They stared at one another for a moment and Ying Yue knew since the first time his heart was acting strange when he met Wang Li to now, he knew there was no way his heart would ever stop. He felt his face warming up and he looked away covering his lips.


    "Please, Ah Li. Join me."


    He looked at his friend from under his lashes and the silver eyed male stood hesitantly. Turning off the lights, he slipped under the cover and Ying Yue did the same. They stared at one another, just like in his room on the floor. Fingers touched his face and he sighed with a smile, moving closer to Wang Li. Their faces were close and Ying Yue bit his lips, watching soft silver eyes observing him.


    "Ah Li, I¡­ I didn''t bring a gift with me so¡­ if you¡­ if you want a kiss¡­ we, we can," he stuttered out as his freckles hid behind his flush.


    "You are my gift, Ah Yue."


    Ah, Wang Li and his flowery words¡­ They always made his heart bursts in beautiful colors.


    "Then¡­ I want a kiss."


    Silver eyes widened before they crinkled. He felt the puffs against his face from the chuckle before his lips were covered. Closing his golden eyes, he pressed his lips against Wang Li''s. He never kissed anyone before, so he hoped he was doing it right. Wang Li leaned closer, bring his back flat on the mattress. His mouth parted when he felt lips suckling his own like little massages that vibrated down his bones.


    Tip of a tongue pushed in slowly, tasting his mouth and his fingers clenched onto his friend''s shirt.


    "Mmph," He sounded trembling lightly.


    Wang Li pulled back and Ying Yue panted for breath. His chest was heaving, and his face was warm, no, his entire body was burning. His lips felt tingly and swollen, like he had eaten spicy peppers. He felt fingers pushed his hair out of his face and he blinked away the haze.


    "Did you enjoy your gift?"


    Nodding his head, he sighed and smiled.

 Chapter 224 - Alt. Epilogue: 8 Of 10- I Miss You

    "Ah Yue," Wang Li whispered lying beside him. He turned so he was facing his friend, "I will be leaving."


    "You''re going home now? I thought you were sleeping over?"


    "I meant leaving my home. I am old enough. I do not wish to be bound to another I do not care for."


    "But¡­ can''t you just tell you mother?"


    "She will not listen. We argued before I came to you. She thinks I am useless."


    "You are not!"


    "Ah Yue¡­"


    "Where, where will you go?"


    Ying Yue pressed his face against his friend''s chest and held him tightly.


    "Will we be able to stay in communication?"


    "I don''t know. My mother is cutting off my allowance and trust. I have no money, Ah Yue."


    Ying Yue could not believe Wang Li''s mother would do that. To cut off financial stability of her own child¡­ that made him sad for his friend. Pulling his head back, he searched his friend''s face and held it in between his hands.


    "Live with me."


    "I couldn''t."


    "Why not?"


    "I do not want to be a burden, Ah Yue."


    "You aren''t."


    "Ah Yue," Wang Li sighed and held his wrists, "You will graduate soon, go to college, find someone to love, make a family. Don''t let me weigh you down. I will find a place without my mother''s money."


    "When I get my own place, Ah Li, you will come stay with me."


    "Hm? Not asking?"


    "Nope."


    Wang Li saw determination in those golden eyes and he closed his eyes. To be taken care of by a sweet man like Ying Yue, he was truly blessed. Placing a tender kiss on soft lips, he nodded.


    ==


    Ying Yue gave Wang Li his phone, before he left. He would just get another phone and work a part-time job. From what he knew, Wang Li had sold off some of the items he had in his suitcase to pay for food and a place to stay. Some places were not in the nicest areas and that scared Ying Yue to know Wang Li was there, but it pushed him to work harder.


    He was able to work as a cashier at a local convenient store.


    The money he earned, he would save so he could travel to meet Wang Li. He tried to convince his friend to come with him, but Wang Li refused. The silver eyed man said he needed to prove his worth, whatever that meant.


    Graduation came and he called Wang Li, asking if he would see him walk, but he remembered his friend was also graduating.


    His parents smiled and cheered, they took pictures, ate a nice meal, and slept in a good home. Ying Yue knew it wasn''t the same for Wang Li. A burning fire ignited brighter in him. He was going to succeed and Wang Li would not struggle any longer.


    He applied to the local college to complete his undergraduate degree and applied for more jobs, hoping to earn better pay so he could afford an apartment. Then, he would not have to worry about Wang Li any longer because the raven haired man would be living with him.


    "Ah Li! How are you today? Please be honest."


    "Ah Yue," he could hear the smile, "I am fine. I am looking for a job right now. You?"


    "Oh! I just got hired to be a clerk! I would be able to earn more, Ah Li! Then you can come stay with me."


    "I would love to."


    Ying Yue bit his lips and he tugged the hem of his shirt.


    "Have you applied to college, Ah Li? We should apply together."


    "Mm. Where have you applied?"


    Ying Yue listed the schools and Wang Li agreed to apply to them.


    "Really?! Ah, I hope we get in together, Ah Li!"


    "As do I, Ah Yue."


    There was a silence between them and Ying Yue felt his smile drop.


    "I miss you."


    Wang Li didn''t reply and he tightened his hold on his phone. Did his friend not miss him too? He heard a ding, notifying him that he received a message. Staring at the name of the sender, he blinked for a moment. Opening up the attachment, he felt his face burn as a squeak escaped his lips. He heard the laughter from his friend and it only made him flush harder.


    "Ah Li! This- This! Shameless!"


    "When you miss me, you can stare at that picture."


    Ying Yue covered his eyes but peeked through his fingers at the image.


    "Now send me yours."


    "Wh.. What?! I won''t- Not like-"


    "Any picture will do, Ah Yue. I miss you too."


    Ying Yue thought for a moment before taking a picture of himself the way he was: hair astray and a tired face. He sent it and awaited the verdict from his friend. He gnawed his bottom lip and stared at the screen, as if he could see Wang Li''s face.


    "Beautiful, Ah Yue," Wang Li breathed out and Ying Yue flushed.


    "Goodnight, Ah Yue. Be safe and I will see you soon."


    "Goodnight Ah Li. Sleep well."


    When they hung up, he was still staring at the blank screen. Getting ready for bed, he finished his nightly routine and slipped under the covers. He reached for his phone to make sure his alarms were on, only to be face to face with the image Wang Li sent.


    Fresh out of the shower and bare chest damp with a sheen. Silver eyes sharp and dangerous stared at him and he¡­


    Ying Yue covered his eyes again.


    ''Why did Wang Li send this to me?!'' He cried inwardly, but he still peeked at the image sucking his bottom lip.


    ==


    For the next year, Wang Li had been too busy to speak on the phone. They only had a few exchanges of texts before one of them were busy. Sighing, he looked at the clock to see it was time for him to return to work.


    When he got home, he was exhausted and tired, but his parents were up, eyes bright with smiles on their faces.


    "Honey! You got in!"


    "Huh?"


    "You got accepted! I am so proud of you!" His mother cried hugging him and he found his lips stretched into a grin.

 Chapter 225 - Alt. Epilogue: 9 Of 10- I Really Like You

    They celebrated with a big meal and Ying Yue sent a picture to Wang Li. He laughed when he received a picture of Wang Li''s meal: a bowl of instant ramen with the caption: ''Miss your mother''s cooking.''


    "Mother, Ah Li said he misses your food."


    "When will he come visit? I miss that boy."


    "He said he wants to make a name for himself first. To prove his worth or something."


    His father smirked and cleared his throat, sitting tall.


    "Son, is there something you wish to tell us?"


    "Hm? I haven''t hidden anything from you, father."


    "So, your relationship with Wang Li had not changed since your mother and I saw him last?"


    "¡­"


    "Ying Yue."


    "I¡­ I don''t know."


    "Yue-er, we are fine with you providing Wang Li with a phone and money, but we are concerned that he¡­ We don''t want you to get hurt."


    "Mother, father, Ah Li and I are planning to live together and if he gets in too, then we will go to school together. He said he found a job that paid him well, so I wouldn''t need to help pay for bills. I trust him."


    "My sweet boy," his mother cupped his cheek and proudness shined in her eyes.


    "Alright. Yue-er, then let me tell you about sex and-"


    "Ah! I don''t want to know," Ying Yue covered his ears with his face flushed.


    "I''m just saying. I don''t have any experience with another man, but make sure you use protect-"


    A potsticker was shoved into his mouth and he turned to see his wife covering her lips, hushing her laughter. His eyes caught his son''s burning face and he shook his head fondly. This child was too innocent.


    ==


    He stood at the campus and waited. Wang Li had called him and said he wanted to meet him. He found out his friend had gotten accepted as well and it made his heart soared knowing they could be together again. He ran his fingers down his platinum blonde hair, now down to his waist. Tucking his strands behind his ear, he wondered where his friend could be and if he should call him.


    "Ah Yue."


    Ying Yue turned quickly and he ran, jumping into his friend''s arm. He felt kisses to his cheek and temple. Laughing, the blonde leaned back so their lips could reunite.


    "How I missed you," Wang Li breathed him in and nuzzled his temple.


    "You look well fed, Ah Li," Ying Yue smiled looking him over, "No more ramen?"


    "No," Wang Li laughed, "My employer pays well."


    "For paintings, right?"


    "Mm. Ah Yue, let me show you a place I found. I think you would like it."


    "Eh? When did you come here?"


    Wang Li smiled slyly and took his hand. He was taken to a nice-looking car and he blinked his golden eyes. His friend pulled the door opened for him and he got it. He reached for the seatbelt, but Wang Li grabbed it first, kissing him in the process. He smiled into the kiss and heard the click of the buckle.


    The silver eyed man sat in the driver seat and they took off.


    The music was not on. Only the sound of the car and wind from the opened window was enough for him. His golden eyes just stared at Wang Li and wondered how he was doing, show him some paintings, who were his clients, so many questions and yet¡­


    All he did was stare at his friend.


    "Ah Yue, stare at me longer and I will eat you."


    Ying Yue felt his entire face burning and he quickly turned away to face the opened window. Taking deep breaths from the wind pressed against his face, he bit his lips. Wang Li and his words were too deadly for him, but his heart yearned for them.


    Golden eyes widened when they pulled up to a house, not an apartment.


    The house reminded him of the one he grew up in and it made his heart soften. He exited the car with the raven-haired male and his hand was grasped once more. Walking up to the steps, Wang Li paused at the door and held both of his hands. His silver eyes were searching his face and his lips curled up, before flattening, then back up. Raven brows furrowed slightly and Ying Yue watched his friend''s Adam''s apple bobbed.


    "Ah Yue. I really like you," he whispered and the blonde''s ears reddened.


    "I really like you too," Ying Yue whispered back with a shy smile.


    Wang Li leaned forward and kissed his forehead, making him sighed content.


    His friend opened the door and he walked in, seeing it was already furnished. Furniture, appliances, and mattresses were already placed. There were some paintings on the walls, but that was all the decoration in the home. He felt Wang Li''s hand steered him to their room and he noticed two picture, blown up large to hang above the bedframe.


    The ones they took before Wang Li left.


    He smiled and looked at the end tables to see a picture of him tired, the one he had sent his friend. On the other side-


    "Ah Li!" Ying Yue flushed and quickly laid the photo frame so the image was not showing, "Of all the pictures!"


    Wang Li laughed and tackled him to the bed. He yelped and turned them over, causing Wang Li to do it as well. They rolled around the mattress, laughing as they tried to pin the other. Unfortunately, there was only so much space a mattress had, before they fell onto the floor.


    Hands cushioned him from the fall and he blinked up at his friend. His heart raced with adrenaline and something else, something he did not feel when he was around other people. His mother had spoken to him about his relationship with Wang Li before he came. He wondered¡­


    ["My sweet boy," his mother sighed tugging his hair lightly, "You keep calling Wang Li your friend."


    "He is my friend, mother," he frowned with furrowed brows, "Do you¡­ do you not want me to be friends to Ah Li?"


    His mother tapped his nose and smiled at him.


    "You told me you''ve kissed."]

 Chapter 226 - Alt. Epilogue: 10 Of 10- Will You Marry Me?

    ["Y¡­ yes¡­" he stuttered out with his face warmed.


    "Friends do not kiss, not in the way you told your father and I."


    "¡­"


    "Do you wish for more than that, honey?" His mother placed her hand on his head, "Are you afraid he would not feel the same?"


    "¡­"


    "My sweet boy," His mother sighed and held his head against her shoulder, "He cares deeply for you too."]


    Ying Yue blinked in the touches against his face and the warmth of the body over him. He took in the smell of plum blossom and wood. He observed the soft silver eyes and the light smile on a handsome face.


    "I love you," he whispered without thought and his eyes widened. Panic started to set in as his mind blanked and his heart hammered. He tried to struggle out from under Wang Li, but the man held him in place. Large hands cupped his face, making him look into the beauty above him.


    "I love you too, Ah Yue."


    Wang Li breathed out a sigh of relief as his entire body relaxed. He saw the flush cover freckled cheeks and cute ears. Leaning down, he paused over the blonde''s lips and watched as golden eyes closed. Ying Yue leaned up and their lips touched. Fingers danced across arms and waists, as they continued to smile and laugh into the kisses.


    Placing his forehead to the platinum blonde''s, he took a breath of Ying Yue''s honey rose scent. He stayed there for a moment, living in his lover''s space.


    Forcing himself, he pulled away. Wang Li stood, bringing his sweet lover with him, and stared at the blonde for another moment. His muse was smiling with lightly flushed cheeks and bright golden eyes. Kissing the hand he was holding, they returned to the living room.


    Ying Yue felt as if his heart was going to burst. Wang Li said he loved him too. His heart was swooning and his mind danced with memories of their time together. Turning the corner to the living area, his eyes widened.


    There stood his parents, grinning and bouncing where they stood. At the end of the couch was Snow, the large plush snow leopard he had won at the carnival. Why were his parents here and why didn''t they tell him?


    "Mother? Father?"


    "Congratulations!" His mother cried happily and hugged him, before hugging Wang Li, "I am so happy for you two!"


    "Thank¡­ thank you," Ying Yue flushed and Wang Li bowed.


    "No, the thanks are to you both for raising a kind and beautiful son. I am truly blessed to stand beside him."


    "Ah Li¡­" he breathed out and felt a light kiss to his lips.


    "I love you."


    Giggling and stuffing his face into his lover''s shoulder, he couldn''t stop grinning. His parents ushered them to go sit down at the couch in front of the table. He smiled realizing his parents had made them a cake. He looked to see the writing and he found his face so hot, he could fry eggs with his heat. He glanced over at Wang Li, holding a ring and was smiling at him.


    "Ah Yue, a promise ring that you will always have my heart."


    "That doesn''t say promise ring," he mumbled with big golden eyes as the ring slips down his ring finger.


    "Mm," Wang Li chuckled softly as a redness dusted over his cheeks, "Will you marry me, Ah Yue?"


    Wang Li whispered near him and his heart soared with joy. He looked over at his mother who was in the kitchen grabbing them plates and silverwares. He glanced at his father who was setting up his camcorder to video them. Then, he looked back into silver eyes that wavered and he grabbed his lover''s face.


    "Yes," he laughed and kissed Wang Li. When they parted, he couldn''t help kissing him again and again.


    "Kiss me anymore and I will have to tell your parents to leave," Wang Li whispered against his hot ear.


    "They''re your parents now too," he said back and Wang Li looked at him so lovingly, he could taste the sugar in the back of his throat.


    They just stared at each other, hands in one another imagining their future together.


    Ying Yue never thought the switch in guest would led him here. He would have to thank his classmate for switching, although without his permission, because he met Wang Li. Wang Li, the one who made his heart ache for him, soared for him, and burst into fireworks for him.


    He knew in his heart that his lover, his future husband, would take care of him for all of his life. He internally promised to do the same.


    Wang Li was glad he decided to be hosted one last time. If he hadn''t, he wouldn''t have met this beautiful blonde, his future husband- though he will call Ying Yue his wife because of his beauty.


    He always thought Ying Yue was different, special, perfect. He was welcoming and so opened, that Wang Li could not take advantage of him. Ying Yue was his muse. A beautiful heavenly being that could do no wrong, while he did many wrongs.


    So, he loved from afar, tried to put distance, but his heart always returned to Ying Yue. It belonged to his lover. It belonged to his wife.


    They stayed that way, swimming in each other''s eyes and heartbeats in synced with the other.


    Leaning in, they kissed softly with matching smiles. They pulled apart, only to kiss once more.


    At least, until his mother cooed and cried watching them, while his father struggled to operate the camcorder. They pulled apart to help their parents, but their eyes continued to catch the other.


    ''I love you.''


    No matter how many distance they had, Ying Yue and Wang Li knew where their heart lied, who it belonged to, and who held it for eternity. They would always find one another in the end.


    ''No amount of distance would make me forget who my heart belongs to.''


    Their life was in harmony. Their life was balanced.


    [End]

 Chapter 227 - Extra - Fu Shen X Han Mo - They Are Lovers

    [[This extra chapter is a continuation of the 3 part epilogue. Enjoy ~]]


    Fu Shen stared at the young raven haired boy sitting on his laps. Why was the boy with his king''s name on his laps and why was those silver eyes narrowed at his master? Not only that, the blonde boy was sitting on Wang Li''s lap playing with the long locks. Big green eyes glanced at him and there was a pout on that cute face.


    ''What¡­ is happening?''


    He looked over at his lover and Han Mo only smiled watching him with the two boys. He blinked his purple eyes, hoping to convey his confusion to his master. Golden eyes only sparkled under the morning sun.


    Han Mo wanted to laugh. Ah, the little Ghost King was still attached to his dear Fu Shen and his little brother clung to the raven haired boy everywhere. It just tickled him so much that he was fighting the grin wanting to split across his lips.


    "Ah Li," Mo Chou skipped over with two freshly baked bread, "Oi, stop looking at Uncle Mo that way," The navy haired man covered those silver eyes, "Now, open your mouth sweet baby."


    Wang Li let out a laugh and opened his mouth and bit into the warm soft bread. Mo Chou laughed and held the other bread to the blonde''s lips.


    "Your turn baby Yue."


    Ying Yue opened his mouth wide, excited to taste the delicious bread. He was so happy Wang Li brought them to live here with very nice brothers. He looked at Ah Li to see silver eyes watching him. He grinned and held his friend''s hand in his.


    Mo Chou sighed pleased and pressed kisses on the children''s forehead, before pulling back to stare at Fu Shen. He glanced at Han Mo to see the brunette walking over.


    "Uncle Mo," Mo Chou grinned, "Enjoying the view, hm?"


    "Of course," Han Mo grinned, "My dear Fu Shen with children makes me love him more."


    "Master Mo," Fu Shen flushed and the brunette laughed.


    This only caused Wang Li to stand, bringing Ying Yue up with him. Chewing the last of the bread, silver eyes glared at the brunette male.


    "Brother Mo," he stated with a flat face, "Why do you stay here? Your medicine will help many. The wandering cultivators have not learned skills in medicine as you."


    "Huh¡­ I have not thought about that," Han Mo admitted rubbing his chin, "That''s smart. I should take some apprentices to learn medicine. What do you think Ah Chou?"


    Mo Chou quirked a blue brow and side eyed his once king. Oh, Mo Chou already knew what the raven haired boy was doing. Clearing his throat, he grinned and nodded.


    "That is a grand idea, Brother Mo. Is Fu Shen joining you?"


    "Yes."


    Fu Shen stood up and moved to stand beside Han Mo, who preened happily.


    "Why?" Wang Li questioned with a frown and Ying Yue tilted his head, glancing at his friend and back at the adults.


    "Ah Li," the blonde blinked big green eyes at him, "They are lovers."


    "How do you know?"


    "They look at each other like they love one another. Like, like Brother Chou and Brother Lan and Brother Ling and Sister Nuying. Even Papa Wu and Papa Xi."


    "..."


    "..."


    "Oh¡­"


    "Ah Li¡­"


    Wang Li looked at his friend and fingers unwrapped from his. The blonde took a step back and lifted his head to face him. Eyes watery and a defeated smile was aimed at him.


    "I''m gonna find Master Lan," Ying Yue whispered and turned to walk away.


    Wang Li was confused. Why did Ah Yue want to leave without him? Why did it look like his friend was going to cry? He felt his heart constricting with a feeling so deep, he felt scars along his soul. His body seemed to be crying, screaming at the thought that his Ying Yue was walking away from him. He grabbed Ying Yue and turned the blonde to face him. Green eyes widened and stared at him confused.


    "Ah Yue," Wang Li settled his heart, "Let''s be lovers like them."


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "W¡­ What?" Ying Yue flushed bright.


    At the age of 10, two years after settling in the school, Ying Yue felt as if his heart was singing up to the heavens. He had always loved Wang Li and to... to hear his best friend say-


    "WHAT?!" Mo Chou shouted, "You two are too young! No."


    "Brother Chou-"


    "Nope. Nope. Wait until I tell Ah Ling! He would be upset."


    "But we are 10," Ying Yue spoke up stepping closer to his friend.


    "Too YOUNG!" Mo Chou shouted and grabbed their arms, dragging them to the redhead a few feet away with his wife. Both looked over to see what the commotion was.


    "But! But!" Ying Yue tried and Wang Li, on the other side of Mo Chou, smiled over to him.


    "I love you, Ying Yue."


    "I love you too Wang Li!" Ying Yue grinned with red cheeks, gushing from the admittance.


    Mo Chou found himself laughing as the hands holding the children''s arms went to wrap around each boy''s shoulders.


    "Ah, you two are just too cute! I''m gonna have to talk to your Papas about making something to stop you two from getting it on."


    "Getting it on?" Ying Yue questioned and Mo Chou squealed.


    "White lotus!"


    Fu Shen and Han Mo watched the children and the navy haired man reached the redhead and the pinkette. Silver eyes glanced back at them and Han Mo was ready for a glare, but all he received was a blink, before they softened with the smile. A nod sent their way and he blinked.


    Han Mo laughed and turned to his lover and pulled the white haired man into his arms.


    ''I guess that was approval.''


    "I love you," he whispered and arms wrapped around him.


    "I love you too, Ah Mo."


    He pulled back to stare at the man he had loved for many years. Pulling his sweet Fu Shen with him to his room, he kissed and kissed and kissed some more. Belts and sashes hit the floor along with their tunics. Fingers grazed lightly down burnt scars and a hard nub. Golden eyes took in the flush over his lover''s chest and face.


    "Ah Mo," Fu Shen whispered with eyes closed and Han Mo¡­ He really loves his white-haired beauty.


    Purple eyes watched him half lidded and he was mesmerized by his lover leaning up and kissing along his neck up to his jawline. He moved his hips and they rubbed against one another. He could hear his lover''s gasps and moans against his ear, only causing him to move faster.


    "Mm, Uh, Han¡­ Han Mo," Fu Shen bit his ear, "In¡­ inside me."


    "Oh, Ah Shen, my beautiful crane," Han Mo groaned and kissed his lover''s lips deeply. Bringing Fu Shen down to the bed, he reached his fingers down to graze his lover''s pucker. Wetness touched his fingers and he pulled back from the kiss with furrowed brows. He looked down, worried his lover was bleeding or hurting there somehow. What he found¡­


    Oil. The wetness was oil.


    His lips dried up and his entire body flushed understanding what was happening. He heard the light laughter of his dear Fu Shen and he looked to see purple eyes watching him.


    "You¡­"


    "I love you."


    Han Mo laughed and captured those beautiful lips again. His fingers pushed in the less tight hole and swallowed the hitched of breath. Fu Shen lifted his leg to throw over his shoulder and Han Mo lined himself up. He kept his eyes on his lover as he pushed in, earning a quiet groan from the white haired man.


    His dear Fu Shen was always quiet.


    But to Han Mo, everything Fu Shen did was so loud in his ears, it took all his attention. He welcomed it all.


    "Ah, Ah Mo," Fu Shen curved his back and moved against him, "What is wrong?"


    Han Mo smiled and apologized, kissing his dear lover deeply. Then, he was not holding back. He rolled his hips, pushed in deep, did his best to make his lover feel pleasure. Fingers gripped his shoulders, hips tightened around him, and the pucker squeezed his cock tightly.


    He smacked his hips, rolled and paused for a moment, then did it again.


    "Ah, Ah, Ah Mo," Fu Shen, with his head thrown back and sweat beating all over his skin, "Please. Stop, Stop teasing."


    Han Mo laughed before he sighed, nuzzling against his beautiful lover. Positioning himself for leverage, he thrusted faster, harder, making sure to hit the spot that made Fu Shen gripped harder onto him. His cock tugged against the tight walls and he groaned licking against panting lips. He could feel himself getting ready to fill his lover, so he reached down and fisted Fu Shen''s hard cock.


    "Ah!" Fu Shen cried twerking his hips and kissing him deeply. Cum spurted out and landed on their chests, but they continued to live inside one another''s mouth.


    ''Oh Heavens,'' Han Mo groaned and bucked his hips over and over, gripping the bedsheet beside his lover''s head, until he released himself inside his lover.


    He continued to kiss a panting Fu Shen, who kissed back tiredly. Leaning back, Han Mo wiped the sweat from his lover''s face and placed more kisses all over the beautiful face, scars and all. He still wondered if this was all a dream. He knew it wasn''t, but still... being here with Fu Shen...


    "I love you."


    "I know."


    "Eh? Shen-er, won''t you say it back to me?"


    His sweet lover laughed softly and kissed him gently. Fingers touched his cheek before cupping it.


    "I love you."


    Ah, he loves Fu Shen. Every scars, every stares, every breath, and every touch. All of Fu Shen he loves.


    "More?"


    Fu Shen smiled and opened his mouth to-


    "Uncle Mo!" Xu Lan cried out slamming the door opened, uncaring that both Fu Shen and Han Mo was naked.


    "What the¡­" He blinked at his nephew and Fu Shen pulled away to pull the sheets to cover them.


    "Tell Mo Chou that the children should not learn about sex. They are far too young."


    "¡­"


    "¡­"


    "Uncle Mo!" Xu Lan frowned crossing his arms.


    "Right¡­ Right now?" Han Mo cried glancing at his lover then back at his nephew.


    "Ye-"


    A hand wrapped around the pinkette''s lips from behind. Navy hair popped up and brown eyes looked at them.


    "Zhang Xu Lan! I told you not to bother Uncle Mo! He is busy with Uncle Shen," Mo Chou offered an apologetic smile, "Please, continue."


    The door closed and they could hear the huffing and shouts on the other side of the door. Golden eyes and purple eyes blinked at one another.


    "Did... Master Chou just said Uncle Shen?"


    "Yes."


    "..."


    "..."


    "I... He is older than I."


    "Yes..."


    Han Mo grinned and pecked his lips, making the white haired man chuckle.


    "Ah Mo," Fu Shen leaned against him, "Thank you."


    Han Mo smiled and placed a kiss on his dear Fu Shen''s temple.


    "No, my dear Fu Shen, I thank you."


    "AH! No! Stop Mo Chou! You are terrible! Kids don''t watch! Don''t- Ah! Momo!"


    Han Mo laughed and shook his head.


    His family was a mess, but¡­


    He looked at Fu Shen who began dressing himself.


    At least he had Fu Shen with him this time. He will forever be happy.