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Chapter Text

“The next time we meet, I will use my real appearance to greet you.”

Those were the last words he had said to His Highness before latter one fell asleep. That was the reason why Hua Cheng was now fixing his beloved's bamboo hat looking as himself, and not as San Lang.

It felt weird. As much as he wanted for His Highness to see him as he is, he was afraid of his reaction. Would his appearance, his ugliness, his monstrosity, his curse, really not matter? He knew Xie Lian wasn't a shallow person, he was far from that. Even back when they were both humans, Xie Lian didn't mind his bandages, his crying, or the warnings of others. Xie Lian stood up for him every single time when someone hurt him. But, as someone who was kicked down and cast away all his human life because of his appearance, he could not help but to be anxious about their upcoming meeting. In the end, some wounds, even death could not heal.

He put a fixed hat on the floor. It was nearing sunrise and he had to go back to the ghost realm to help He Xuan with the intruder who tried to sneak into The Nether Water Manor.

He quietly approached Xie Lian, careful not to wake him up. He took a ring made out of his ashes from one of his pockets. Until now, that ring was placed upon one of the statues he crafted. More precisely, it was in the hands of a statue that depicted Xie Lian as a human, giving away a daruma doll. He put a ring on the chain and carefully put it around his beloved's neck.

He took a few steps back. “I am forever your most devoted believer, Your Highness.”

”Hua Cheng.”
“What is so important that you have to call me at this hour, Xuan?”
”I am giving you a heads up. There is commotion in Heaven. Some strange package appeared and now they are gathering a few gods to deal with the problem. Your beloved will also be summoned. Shi Qingxuan volunteered to come get him. She should be there in a few minutes.”

Hua Cheng broke off connection with a small fuff.

“Gege?” He gently shook Xie Lian’ shoulder.
“Hmph? San..San Lang, what’s going on?” Xie Lian asked, rubbing his eyes.
“Something is up in Heaven. They sent someone to pick you up. They will come soon.”
Xie Lian nodded, his gaze unfocused. Hua Cheng decided that the best course of action would be to light up a candle to get some light.

“San Lang?”
“Yes, gege?”
“Is that… your true form?”
Hua Cheng froze, his back still facing Xie Lian.
“It is.”
“Can I…can I take another look? I…I didn’t get to see you well before.”
“Gege can see whatever he wants.”
“No, you don’t have to show me if you are not comfortable. It was just-” Xie Lian started to ramble nervously, and even though Hua Cheng wasn’t facing him, he could still feel Xie Lian’ frantically moving his hands around.
“I don’t mind.” He said. “I promised gege I would greet him with my real appearance.” Hua Cheng turned around, finally facing his beloved.

Look on Xie Lian’ face was… special. If one didn’t know what he was looking at, they would assume that the most beautiful maiden was in front of him. Or maybe the finest sword. (His Highness did really love swords.)

Xie Lian seemed to have realized that he was staring because he looked away, hiding his cheeks that were burning red. “I like your true appearance.” A pause. “I would not mind seeing it more often if you are comfortable with it.” He continued, still hiding his face.

Hua Cheng could feel his cheeks burning up. He could not help but to smile. His beloved didn’t mind his curse nor his looks. He was about to reply when a loud knock interrupted them both.

“Your Highness! Sorry to wake you up, but there has been an emergency in Heaven!”

—

As Shi Qingxuan led them to Heaven, Xie Lian could not help but to steal glances at Hua Cheng. He switched back to his youthful appearance, one he used to meet him when they were driving in a cart. Hua Cheng was not comfortable with others seeing his real appearance and he respected that.

If my real face is ugly, would you still want to see it?
What if I’m discolored, ugly, monstrous, and horrible; what will you do?

San Lang was serious when he said that. He meant every word. Maybe, he was even afraid. For some reason unknown to him, Hua Cheng believed that he was a monster that needed to hide his true self. Luckily, Xie Lian didn’t believe that. And he will make sure Hua Cheng stops believing that too.

He took Hua Cheng’ hand and gave it a reassuring squeeze. He could not say much in front of Wind Master, so his actions will have to suffice for conveying a message to Hua Cheng.

Judging by Hua Cheng’ smile, Xie Lian assumed he understood the message.

—

“Xianle.”
“My Lord.”
This interaction, albeit short one, made all calmour stop and it diverted all attention to him.

“What is he doing here?” “Why the fuck did you bring him here?” Generals of the South yelled at the same time.
“Xuan Zhen, Nan Yang.” Jun Wu said, his eyes still focused on Xie Lian. “Do you know who the man next to Xianle is?”

Mu Qing and Feng Xin looked at each other and then, to Xie Lian’ surprise, agreed on something.
“While we have no concrete evidence…” Feng Xin started.
“We believe that the man next to the Crown Prince is Crimson Rain Sought Flower.” Mu Qing finished.

As a group of gathered heavenly officials started to get restless (Wind Master even left his side when someone called her over), Xie Lian shook his head.

“Xianle.” As usual, one word from Jun Wu was enough to make everyone stop.
“Yes, my Lord?”
“Are your former subordinates correct? Is he really the Crimson Rain Sought Flower?”

Xie Lian looked at Hua Cheng, who was oddly quiet during this whole ordeal. Hua Cheng smiled at him, squeezing his hand. (Xie Lian did not notice until now that he never let go of his hand. It just felt natural. Good. As it belonged there.)

“Yes.” It was a simple answer, but it was enough for clamor to return. Xie Lian noticed that Feng Xin and Mu Qing looked at him with worried expressions.

“Silence.”

“Xianle, do you realize who is he?”
“I do.”
“So why did you bring him here?” Mu Qing and Feng Xin yelled at the same time, again. Xie Lian could feel Hua Cheng getting agitated. He squeezed his hand again.

“Because I trust San Lang and I want him here with me. If it bothers others, I will simply leave.” He said and turned around, leaving the shocked group behind. He didn't even take more than 3 steps when Jun Wu called out.

“Xianle.” He turned around to face Jun Wu. “Usually, I would not tolerate this kind of behavior.”

Xie Lian kept staring at him, still holding Hua Cheng’ hand.

“But fate has it, we need you to solve this issue. Crimson Rain can stay with you under one condition. You will be responsible for his actions while he is up here. If he in any way, shape or form poses threat to our security or lives, you will pay the price by being banished for the third time. With 2 additional shackles."

Next to him, Hua Cheng was getting angry, so he squeezed his hand again.

“Deal. I trust San Lang.” He stated the simple truth, but the gathered officials still seemed shocked. (Well, all except one who Xie Lian heard say “Ho ho ho.”)

“Gege…”
Xie Lian turned to face Hua Cheng. “Don’t worry San Lang. We will be okay.” He said with a smile.

Xie Lian didn’ know why rest of officials looked at him like a mad man. After all, he was just stating the truth. But also, to be honest, it has been a long time since he was actually in Heaven. He did not know what the latest happenings or ‘important’ people and things were. He knew almost no gods here, and by extension, had no idea of their values and opinions. Not that he really cared about them anyway. So he simply sat on the floor, pulling Hua Cheng next to him.

Goddess whose name Xie Lian didn’t know and the god in black, who looked a lot like male version of Earth Master were first to follow his lead, the goddess sitting next to Hua Cheng and the god sitting next to Xie Lian.

Wind Master got out of god' (possibly her brother’ grip) and sat next to god in black with a big smile on her face. Feng Xin and Mu Qing sat next to the goddess on Hua Cheng’ side. Looking at them, Xie Lian could see shock, anger and disbelief on their faces. To whom they were directed, he did not know. Lan Qianqiu sat next to them. It has been centuries since Xie Lian saw him last, and he didn't carry many good memories from that encounter.

Hua Cheng must have sensed his discomfort, because he glared at Lan Qianqiu while squeezing Xie Lian’ hand.

Ling Wen and 2 other gods sat next to Wind Master. Once all of them were seated, Jun Wu sat at the end of this god (and ghost) made circle, right across Xie Lian.

“Ling Wen.” Jun Wu called, still looking only at Xie Lian.
“Yes, my Lord?”
“We should start now.”

Ling Wen nodded. “Let's go over what we know first.”

“Early this morning, a random box was left in my palace. It contained a letter and this disk.” She raised said disk so the rest of the gods could see it. “According to the letter, it was left by worried heavenly officials who gained crucial intel on one of the Four Calamities.”

Hua Cheng could feel most of the present gods staring at him. So he just glared at them.
”Xuan.”
”This is not my doing. I won’t start my revenge until I get answer from Shi Qingxuan.”
”Then this might be a problem."
”Do you think it could be related to the intruder from earlier today?”
”We should not ignore the option. I will let Yin Yu know, just in case an intruder makes a move again while we are here.”

While two ghosts conversed, Ling Wen continued. “The letter says that all information is stored in this disk. In order to access it, all gods that were listed in the letter have to take a disk and say they consent to this. Only then will the talisman on the disk activate and show us the message.”

This reveal started another discussion amongst gods. Xie Lian decided to use that time to talk to Hua Cheng.
“San Lang?”
Hua Cheng looked at him with a smile. “Yes, gege?”
“This information… it may be about you. Are you okay with it being shared?”
Hua Cheng laughed.
“Don’t worry, gege. I’ve been around for centuries and none of these fools have any useful intel on me. If someone really did get any intel now, then it must be worth watching.”
Xie Lian nodded. “Since you don’t mind, I will give my consent too then.”

Chapter Text

Xie Lian did not know what he expected to happen once the talisman was activated. But seeing smokey images of himself and god he did not know (but he did notice that the same god was sitting between Ling Wen and Jun Wu) was not on his ‘this could happen’ list.

“Xianle, Ming Guang.”
“My Lord, I have no idea what’s going on.” Xie Lian said.
“Neither do I. I pray the Lord will allow us to see this to the end before making any rash decisions.” Pei Ming said. Jun Wu nodded.

“Is this working?”
“It should be. Wait. Yeah, it’s on.”
“Um, hello!” Xie Lian waved.

Next to him, Hua Cheng smiled. “Gege is too nice.”
That sentiment was not shared with the rest of the gods who were panicking because of light blue shackles that appeared around their wrists.

Jun Wu studied the shackles on his arms. They seemed to be imitations of his, the only difference being they restricted flow of the qi and reduced its output. They were meant to only limit ones’ powers, and not control them. He could feel his powers were still concealing the faces of his vassals, meaning while they did limit the flow, they left just enough energy for practicing inedia. It seems like these shackles were imitation of his, albeit benign one.

“Silence.” He said and the gods listened. “These shackles seem to be made as an imitation of mine, the only difference being their capacity is not as big. While they do limit our powers, if you stop panicking, you will notice you can still practice inedia. That means that they were not put on us because of malice. They should pose no trouble for us.”

Gods calmed a little after this, but some still eyed Xie Lian and Pei Ming.

“If our Lord says they are imitations of his, that must mean he helped make them. Or at least he gave inputs to His Royal Highness and Pei-xiong on the manufacturing process. Meaning, we don’t have to worry about them for now.” God that was sitting between Wind Mater and Ling Wen said.
“Shi-xiong is right. Let’s move on for now.” Ling Wen added.
Pei Ming looked at them with a bright expression reserved only for close friends. Xie Lian recognized it, because he used to watch Feng Xin and Mu Qing with the same expression back when they were humans.

God next to him chuckled, but Xie Lian continued. “All of you are probably very confused right now, so please allow us to explain.”
“As of now, it has been 10 years since my third ascension. It may be a little hard to believe, but it’s true. I’m afraid I can’t prove it because this message was made before we started the ritual.”

Pei Ming chuckled. “Seems like a lot of gods lost their bets.”

“We found this ritual a year ago. It allows caster to send messages to anyone, at any point in time. Since then, we have been collecting memories from gods, ghosts and humans in order to tell you what will happen. We hope that you can use that information to prevent, um…”
“Some very bad things that will happen soon.”

Atmosphere changed for the worse. It was evident in the gods' faces. Only ones that seemed unbothered by revelation were Hua Cheng and Jun Wu, who kept neutral expressions on their faces. Some gods even glared at Hua Cheng.
But he didn’t do anything wrong. Xie Lian thought. He pulled Hua Cheng closer to him, locking his arm in a hug. He failed to notice how that action made Hua Cheng blush.

“That’s one way to put it.”
“It seemed like you were stuck, Lian-di.” Pei Ming shrugged. Xie Lian shook his head and muttered something.

Lian-di? Xie Lian looked at Pei Ming, who seemed equally confused.
Are we really that close in the future? They had to be, given the address. But, his last 2 missions resulted in damaging Pei Ming' reputation.

"Well, Your Royal Highness, it seems like you are one of us now." Pei Ming said with a laugh. "When this is over, you are officially one of Three Tumors. Or maybe Four now?”

It made sense, didn’t it? Three Tumors were the most hated and despised gods in Heaven. That is, until Xie Lian showed up. It only made sense for us to get closer. Pei Ming thought.

Feng Xin, Mu Qing and Shi Shi Qingxuan looked offended by that statement.
“General Pei, don’t go around stealing my friends!” She proclaimed. Xie Lian could just chuckle.
“Lord Wind Master, I’m sure me being close with general Pei won’t damage our friendship.” Goddess smiled at that. “And general Pei, I am looking forward to getting to know you after this.” Said general nodded.

Jun Wu did his best to keep an indifferent expression on his face. He made sure to give Xie Lian missions that will damage his relationships with the Three Tumors. Does this mean his plan had failed?

”Some bad things will happen. We managed to deal with them, but not without cost.”

"That's good. Bad stuff was solved. That's good, right Míng-xiōng?" Wind Master said while holding the arm of god next to her, trying her best to hide the unease she was feeling.
"It probably is." He said. "But that stuff didn't happen and if this works, won't happen. So calm down."
"You are right, Míng-xiōng!" She giggled and hugged his arm.

“We hope that you will look at the memories we collected and manage to come up with a way to resolve things more peacefully.”
“Yes. Names that we listed in letters are names of gods that contributed the most in this. You are seeing it first. Afterwards, these memories will be shown to other gods and ghosts. That will buy you time to make necessary decisions after viewing and also prevent possible future conflicts.”

"You thought of everything." The goddess next to Hua Cheng said.
Xie Lian smiled while Pei Ming looked away.
"Gege." Hua Cheng said, gesturing to Xie Lian to come closer. "That is Lady Rain Master, Yushi Huang." He whispered.
"Thank you, San Lang."

“You probably noticed by now that you have shackles on your person. Don’t worry, they are only temporary and will go away a few days after viewing.”
“Some ugly things will be revealed during this so this was the best way to prevent any serious damages that could harm the ritual, that would come from possible conflicts.”

“There is one person that is watching this at the same time as you. They are also really important for the future, but there are some factors that made us separate them from the rest of you. If at any point they wish to join you, they have way to contact you and join you.”

“Is it Shixiong?” God that was sitting between Jun Wu and Lan Qianqiu asked, almost jumping out of his seat.
“General Qi Ying, the message is from the future. I doubt they know the answer.” Yushi Huang answered calmly.
Qi Ying slumped back into his seat, with determined expression on his face. I will find you one day, Shixiong.

“Did we cover everything?”Xie Lian put hand on his face, striking a I’m thinking pose.
“Our goal, shackles, viewers… I think we did.”
“Oh! San Lang!” Xie Lian yelled.

All present gods looked at Hua Cheng, who himself looked surprised.

“You do know that we didn’t put his name on the list on purpose, right?”
“I do. I also believe he went there with me. Well, past me.” He said looking at god, and then turned back. “I saw your artwork. I think it’s very beautiful. I love it very much. In fact, I even worked with you on a project of giving every statue its most treasured companion. So please, do not worry about it when the memories show us seeing them.”

Gods were confused. Just what type of artwork is Ghost King making?
Xie Lian looked at Hua Cheng, who seemed to switch between feeling panic, relief and embarrassment.
“San Lang?”
Hua Cheng looked at him, his face instantly becoming calmer. “Yes, gege?”
“Once this is done, can I see your artwork? Future me seemed to love it.”
“Gege can see whatever he wants.” He replied and Xie Lian smiled.

If he is not in love, I am not god of love. Pei Ming thought.

“That should be all. Good luck to all of you.”

Chapter Text

The image from the disk changed. It showed Heavenly Capital, with Xie Lian and Ling Wen in focus. But that was not the only difference. The image seemed more vibrant, it seemed like it was alive.

If these scenes are from memories, could it be that they give it more of an impact?

“Congratulations, Your Royal Highness the Crown Prince.”

“I see.”
“Care to enlighten us, Noble Jie?”
“Future versions of yourself and Royal Highness used his third ascension as a time determinant. These memories also start from the same event. I am willing to bet that this event is crucial for our future.”
Xie Lian chuckled nervously. It wasn’t like he wanted to ascend again. Nor did he ask for it.
“It’s not gege’s fault that he ascended.” Hua Cheng stated.
“That’s true. However, everything has its consequences. Even if one may not want them.” Shi Wudu said.
“So, what? You will put the blame on him just because he ascended? We don’t even know what will happen yet.” Ming Yi spoke. Since he was a man of few words, this caught the attention of everyone present. Xie Lian bowed his head in gratitude, to which Ming Yi simply nodded and pulled out some snacks from his pockets.
”This month’ fish food is on me.”

“Why did the projection stop?” Wind Master asked. Everyone present looked at it.
“It might be a reach, but we all had to consent to this right?” Lan Qianqiu said. “Maybe it was more than just consent?”
“It is not impossible. When we consented to this, we were connected to the disk. Maybe the disk was also connected to us.” Ling Wen said.
“That would explain how all of us got shackles.”
“And if it’s connected to us, it can probably sense when our attention is not on it.”Ling W en continued, ignoring Feng Xin’ comment.
“So, you are saying the disk got mad we weren’t paying attention to it and stopped?” Shi Wudu asked,
“It’s one way to put it, yes. But it could mean that it will stop every time most of us stop paying attention, giving us time to discuss what we have seen.”

Hearing those words, Xie Lian raised his head and smiled before he spoke, “Thank you. But may I ask what you’re congratulating me for?”
Ling Wen ZhenJun stood with her arms crossed as she said, “Congratulations for getting first place on the list of ‘Heaven’s Officials most anticipated to be demoted and banished to the mortal realm’.”
Xie Lian replied, “No matter how you say it, it’s still first place. But I think that if you’re congratulating me, then it should still be a position worth being happy about?”
Ling Wen stated, “Yes, if you’re first, you can get one hundred merits.”
Xie Lian responded immediately, “Next time, if there’s another list like this, by all means, please put me on it.”

Present gods laughed at Xie Lian’ antics. Hua Cheng was not as amused as they were.
“Gege, you don’t need to do that. Next time, if you need anything, just come to me. Don’t let these fools use you for their entertainment.” He whispered to Xie Lian,
“San Lang, I-I can’t bother you-” Xie Lian nervously stammered, his face blushing.
“Nonsense. Gege is never a bother. Gege will never be a bother.”
Xie Lian hid his red face in Hua Cheng’ arm.

Ling Wen asked, “Do you know who is in second place?”
Xie Lian thought for a moment before replying, “That’s too hard to guess. After all, just based on strength, I alone ought to be able to take the top three places.”
Ling Wen answered, “That’s more or less right. There isn’t a second place. The moment you started, others could only see your dust with no hopes of catching up.”

Most of the present gods could not help but to laugh, again.
“Gege?”
“Hm?” His head was still buried in Hua Cheng.
“I am serious. You are better than what they make you. And you are better than them. Don’t let them convince you otherwise.”
“San Lang!” Xie Lian didn’t dare to raise his head. “Thank you.”

Xie Lin said, “I dare not accept the honor. Who was the first place winner from the previous years?”
Ling Wen stated, “There wasn’t one because this list was created this year. More accurately, it was set up today.”
“Eh,” Xie Lian blanked for a bit before asking, “Based on what you said, this list wasn’t created specifically for me, was it?”

“That’s mean!” Shi Qingxuan exclaimed.
“En.” Ming Yi said.

Ling Wen responded, “You can think of it as luckily winning merely because you were coincidentally in time for it.”
Xie Lian said with a face full of smiles, “Alright, if I think about it like that, I’ll be slightly happier.”
Ling Wen continued to say, “Do you know why you would seize first place?”
Xie Lian replied, “Everyone expects it.”
Ling Wen explained, “Let me tell you the reason. Please look at that clock.”
She lifted her finger to point, and Xie Lian turned around to look in that direction. What one could see there was extremely beautiful. Gazing into the distance, one could see a palace made out of white jade, pavilions and kiosks, immortal clouds curling about with flowing streams and flying birds.

“Jiejie, you didn’t have to tease him that much.” Shi Wudu said, hiding his laugh.
“She already accepted him as one of us.” Pei Ming added.

Xie Lian gazed for a long time before asking, “Did you perhaps point in the wrong direction? Where’s the clock?”
Ling Wen replied, “I didn’t point in the wrong direction. It’s there, have you seen it yet?”
Xie Lian looked carefully again before truthfully saying, “I don’t see it.”
Ling Wen responded, “You’re right not to see it. Originally, there had been a clock there, but it was shaken off when you ascended.”
“…”
“That clock was even older than you. Nevertheless, it had a lively and vivacious character. Every single time someone ascended, it would ring a few times to cheer them on. But on the day you ascended, it rang like it had gone crazy, unable to stop. Only when it fell down from the clock tower did it calm down. However, when it fell down, it smashed into a passing Heavenly Official.”

Feng Xin snorted.
Xie Lian turned to face Mu Qing.
“My apologies. I really didn’t mean to.” He said with a nervous laugh.
Mu Qing just nodded, keeping an indifferent face.

Xie Lian asked, “This… Then, are they okay now?”
Ling Wen “No, they’re still being repaired…”
Xie Lian “I’m referring to the Heavenly Official who was hit.”

So he really was sorry. Mu Qing shook his head. It was before he knew it was me that got hit.

Ling Wen replied, “The one who got hit was a martial god. He turned his hand over on the spot and split that clock into two halves. But now, please look over there at that golden palace hall. Do you see it?”
She pointed again, and Xie Lian’s gaze followed her finger once more. He saw a vast area covered in mist and clouds, before seeing the top of a resplendent palace roof made out of gold glass. Xie Lian said, “Ah, I see it this time.”
Ling Wen responded, “If you see something, that means there’s something wrong. Originally there had been nothing there.”
“…”
“When you ascended, many Heavenly Officials’ golden palaces shook to the point that their golden pillars toppled over, and their glazed roofs shattered. Some palaces couldn’t be repaired in a short period of time. Without any better options, many people improvised and built new and temporary places.”
“I’m to blame?”

“Míng-xiōng was right! You can put all of this on him!”
“His ascension caused this, didi.” Shi Wudu said.
“So he is to blame for Heaven being unprepared for someone worthy ascending?” Hua Cheng started. Few gods tried to make arguments, but he just continued. “You are all gods, lords and princes. Should you not have enough money to fix up minor damages? I for one, know that if this happened in my City, it would be like throwing spare change.”

Not so subtle message was clear. They were either making Xie Lian pay for everything because they were selfish pieces of trash or they were not as powerful and wealthy as they presented.
Knowing his message was received, Hua Cheng settled back comfortably into Xie Lian’ arms that were waiting for him.
“You don’t have to fight my battles.” He said as he hugged Hua Cheng. “But, thank you.”

“You’re responsible for it.”
“Uh…” Xie Lian asked to confirm, “Did I happen to offend many Heavenly Officials the moment I came up?”

“A lot.” Quan Yizhen stated. He was trying his best to keep attention on this, in hopes of finding some clues about his Shixiong. Xie Lian reminded him of his Shixiong. If Crimson Rain liked Xie Lian, maybe he also liked his Shixiong?

Ling Wen answered, “If you can redeem yourself, then perhaps you won’t.”
“What can I do to redeem myself?”
“That’s easy to answer. Eight million, eight hundred and eighty thousand merits.”
Xie Lian smiled again.
Ling Wen said, “Of course, I know even one-tenth of that is something you can’t take out.”
Xie Lian replied in a frank and genuine manner, “How do I say this? Although I’m truly sorry for the inconveniences, even if you requested one ten thousandth of that, I still won’t be able to take it out.”

“Xie-xiong!” Wind Master called. “Did you clear all of it? Do you need help? I can give you the merits you need!”
Xie Lian smiled. “Thank you. Lord Wind Master, but my debt is paid. There is no need.”
“Oh, okay.” She said and then, after some consideration, added. “We are friends now, no need to be so formal!”
“Very well.” Xie Lian smiled. “Thank you for being my friend, Xuan-jie.”

Xie Lian was happy. He was alone for 800 years, with no one but Ruoye as company. Now, in matter of a few weeks, he has made not one, but two friends.
If others noticed that Mu Qing and Feng Xin were drinking vinegar, they did not comment.

After all, I have no temples nor followers. No one to burn incense for merits.

His Highness could not hear any of my prayers? Even after he ascended? Hua Cheng pondered. Just what was the real purpose of shackles?

“Wait, Xie-xiong didn’t say this!”
“I was there, and indeed, he didn’t.”
“I didn't. But, I did think that.” Xie Lian said. “We are hearing my thoughts, I think.”
“But why?” Mu Qing asked.
“I do not know.” Xie Lian answered.
“Maybe so we can get better insight?” Rain Master said.

Jun Wu simply watched discussion unfold. While he also did not know why or how this was happening, it was a bonus for him. If he can figure out how Xie Lian was thinking and what were his reasonings, he could come up with a perfect plan to make Xie Lian his successor. He could even try to separate Xie Lian and that ghost king who seemed keen on following him.

His smile disappearing, Xie Lian seriously asked, “Would you be willing to punt me down from here with one kick, and then give me eight million, eight hundred and eighty thousand merits?”
Ling Wen stated, “I am a literature god. If you want someone to kick you, you ought to find a martial god. The harder you get kicked, the more merits you’ll receive.”
Xie Lian heaved a deep sigh. “Allow me to think about what to do.”
Ling Wen patted his shoulder and said, “Don’t lose your head. When you encounter a mountain, there will always be a way through.”
Xie Lian responded, “In my case, when the boat reaches the pier head, it will naturally sink.”
I have no believers, no incense, and no worship. I only have nothing, nothing, not a single thing! What do I do now?

Hua Cheng turned to face Xie Lian.
“Gege, you know that is not true. You have your shrine in Puqi and your believers there. You have Banyue and that Pei brat.” He cupped Xie Lian’ hands with his own. “And you have me. I would say that is more than nothing.”
Xie Lian could feel tears in the corners of his eyes. Just how long has it been since someone talked to him like this? How long has it been since someone cared about him? Since someone comforted him?
Last one to do so faced cruel death 800 years ago because Xie Lian could not let off his anger on time.
He hugged Hua Cheng, hiding his face in the taller man’ chest.
Would Hua Cheng think the same if he knew the truth? Would he still stay by his side?
But he doesn't ask him that. He fears what he would do if the answer was no.
“Thank you.” Is what he settles on saying.

Not having anything better to do, Xie Lian decided to enter Heaven’ communication array.
“Place your bets, no take-backs! Come bet how long our Royal Highness the Crown Prince can persevere before he’ll have to descend once more!”
“I bet one year!”
“One year is too long, last time he only lasted the time span of one incense stick. Perhaps this time he’ll persist for three days? I’ll place a bet for three days, three days!”
“Don’t ah, you dunce! Three days have almost gone by already. Are you gonna be okay?”

Pei Ming laughed. “I can’t wait to see their faces when they figure out how wrong they were.”

… Xie Lian silently left the array.
Wrong place. It definitely couldn’t be this one. Xie Lian thought, but even he sounded like he didn’t believe it.
After he had retreated from the previous array, he began randomly searching once more. Finally, he casually entered another array again. After entering this time, Xie Lian relaxed a bit as he mentally thought: “It’s so quiet here. This is probably the one.”
At that moment, he heard a voice lightly say, “Your Royal Highness the Crown Prince has returned again?”
This official’ tone is gentle yet cold at the same time. Is he being mean or just shy?

Feng Xin laughed. “He recognized you in a second.”
“...he didn’t.”
“What?”
“He didn’t.”
Xie Lian just chuckled nervously.

Xie Lian quickly replied, “That’s right, ah! Hello everyone! I returned again.”
How would he know that after this one question and response—every Heavenly Official in the spirit communication array at that moment all perked up their ears.
Mu Qing continued to speak in a leisurely manner, “This time, Your Royal Highness the Crown Prince’s ascension made a really big commotion, ah.”
He keeps saying ‘Your Royal Highness’ like it’s an insult. Rest of the gods could probably hear the ill intentions in the other’s voice, but Xie Lian did not want to make a scene. Thinking to himself that he would escape, he replied with a smile, “It was okay.”
However, the Heavenly Official didn’t give him a chance to escape. He spoke in a voice that was neither warm nor cold, “Huh, Your Royal Highness the Crown Prince is okay? My luck was not that good.”

“What are you, a doll? Stop making such a fuss.” Feng Xin said.
“You are one to talk! You stormed into the array, cursing and demanding to know who was the culprit!”
As two of them continued to argue, Xie Lian called over to Quan Yizhen.
“General Qi Ying, can you please sit between them? It will make it a tad bit harder for them to argue all the time.”
Quan Yizhen nodded and simply plopped himself between the arguing duo. This action shocked them enough to stop fighting.
“Thank you.” Xia Lian said, along with a few other gods.

Suddenly, Xie Lian heard a whisper from Ling Wen.
She only said a single word, “Clock.”
Xie Lian instantly understood. So this had been the martial god who got smashed by that clock! No wonder he is angry! Xie Lian had always been extremely good at apologizing and thus immediately said, “I’ve heard about the incident with the clock. I’m extremely sorry, please pardon me.”
Mu Qing snorted once, making it impossible for anyone to tell what he meant by it.
There were many martial gods within Heaven and among those, quite a few were new upstarts who had ascended after Xie Lian left. This was why he was unable to pinpoint which god this was just by listening to his voice. However, one couldn’t apologize without even knowing the other’s name. Thus, Xie Lian went to the heart of the matter and asked, “Excuse me, may I ask how I should address you, distinguished one?”

“You were serious.” Feng Xin said.
“No shit.”

The moment he said those words, the other party became silent.
It wasn’t only the other god who became silent. The entire spirit communication array seemed to freeze as if a puff of stagnant air slapped everyone in the face. On the other side, Ling Wen whispered to him once more, “Your Highness, though I don’t believe you haven’t recognized the other person after talking to him for so long—I still want to remind you. That is Xuan Zhen.”
Xie Lian asked, “Xuan Zhen?”
He choked up in a flash before finally reacting as he sent a message back in slight shock, “This is Mu Qing?”
Ling Wen was also very shocked. “It couldn’t be that you really didn’t recognize him?”
Xie Lian replied, “I really didn’t recognize him. Back then, he didn’t talk to me in this manner. In addition, I can’t even remember when was the last time I met him. If it wasn’t five hundred years then it was six hundred years ago. I almost completely forgotten what he looked like, so how could I still recognize his voice?”

“That makes sense.” Shi Qingxuan said. “Ming-xiong, do not ever stop talking to me. I don’t want to forget your voice.”
“Mhm.”
“Ming-xiong!”
“Okay.”

At the other end, Ling Wen said, “He’s really angry.”
Xie Lian replied, “I guessed that too.”
Ling Wen responded, “I’ll go say some other things. Quickly take the opportunity to leave.”
Xie Lian said, “There’s no need. If we pretend nothing happened then everything would be fine.”
Ling Wen asked, “No need? Just looking at you guys make me feel awkward.”
Xie Lian replied, “I’m still okay ah!”

Any situation is okay as long as I don’t die.

Hua Cheng looked like he was having a stroke.
“Xie-xiong, I don’t think that’s a healthy mindset.”

“Who the fuck dismantled my golden palace?! Come out!”
Mu Qing laughed twice. “Haha.”
Feng Xin coldly said, “You were the one who tore it down? Alright, wait for it.”
Mu Qing faintly replied, “I did not say it was me. Don’t randomly spray blood at people.”

Mu Qing answered, “It isn’t like that. What you’ve just said was funny, that’s all. The person who destroyed your golden palace is currently in the spirit communication array, you can go and ask him yourself.”

“Where they like this as humans too?” Lan Qianqiu asked.
“Insolent brats with bad temper? Yes.” Hua Cheng answered for Xie Lian. He could notice His Highness wanted minimum contact with this god.

He coughed dryly before saying, “It was me. I’m sorry.”
The moment he spoke, the person who came later also became silent. By his ear, Ling Wen again transmitted a message. “Your Royal Highness, that is Nan Yang.”
Xie Lian responded, “This time, I recognized him. However, I think he hasn’t recognized me.”

We both left you around same time, yet you recognize him, but not me? Mu Qing almost said that. Almost. But that would mean admitting he wanted to be their friend. And admitting that while he hurt them, they had hurt him too. So he chose to remain silent.

Ling Wen replied, “No. It’s just, he spends most of his time in the mortal realm and less time in the Immortal City. Thus, he merely didn’t know you had ascended again.”

Chapter Text

Since Feng Xin stayed quiet, Xie Lian collected his tail and beat himself down a bit as he said, “I also didn’t anticipate making a commotion like this. It wasn’t deliberate, I’ve inconvenienced everyone.”
Mu Qing responded in a cool manner, “Oh, then that was indeed quite coincidental.”
This really is too coincidental. How could the clock fall right onto Mu Qing, while my ascension also happened to destroy Feng Xin’s palace? Xie Lian thought.

“Xie-xiong, your luck is really… something else.” Xie Lian just let out an awkward laugh.

“I will try my best to compensate for everyone’s golden palaces and other losses. I also hope you may give me some time.” He said in the end.

***

Ling Wen and Xie Lian entered the Palace of Ling Wen. From the ground to the very top, the whole Palace Hall was filled to the brim with official documents and scrolls. This kind of scene was utterly shocking, one that would make anyone shiver with fear. As Xie Lian walked forward, he saw that every Heavenly Official coming out of Ling Wen’s Palace Hall dragged out an exceptionally tall stack of paperwork. Their faces were pale; and if they didn’t have an expression that looked as if they were about to collapse, then they had a look of numbness. When the two of them finally entered the Palace Hall, Ling Wen turned around and got straight to the point. “Your Highness, there is a matter in which the Emperor would like to request your help. Are you willing to assist him and lend a helping hand?”
Xie Lian stared blankly for a bit before he replied, “What matter?”

“Noble Jie, I think you scared him.”
“Anyone sane would be scared by that amount of paperwork.”
Ling Wen handed him a scroll before explaining, “Recently, the North has a large number of zealous worshippers repeatedly praying for blessings. It can be assumed that they aren’t passing their days peacefully. At present, the Emperor cannot attend to the North. If you are willing to take his place and make the trip, when the time comes, regardless of how many offerings these zealous worshippers make, everything will be allocated to your altar. What do you think?”
Xie Lian received the scroll with both hands as he said, “Many thanks.”

Ling Wen replied, “I’m only responsible for handling these affairs. If you want to thank someone, you should wait for the Emperor to return before personally thanking him instead. Oh right, do you need my help borrowing any magical artifacts?”

“Ling Wen was right. Many thanks to My Lord for helping me by giving me this mission.” Xie Lian said with a bow. Jun Wu nodded.

Xie Lian answered, “There’s no need. Even if you give me a magical artifact, once I go down I won’t have any spiritual power, and so I won’t be able to use it.”

“Xie-xiong, how do you fight then?”
“I use whatever is near. Oh, and Ruoye helps me too!” On mention of its name, Ruoye slithered out of Xie Lian’ sleeve and circled around him and Hua Cheng.
“Interesting weapon you have there, Your Highness. It seems more like a loyal guard dog than a tool.” Shi Wudu commented.

Ruoye nuzzled up Xie Lian’ chest. “Ruoye is more than a tool to me.” He simply said while patting the silk. How could he explain to them what Ruoye was to him? Rouye was made on accident, a consequence of his failed suicide attempt(s). Even if it was a reminder of his darkest moments, it was also, for a long time, the only positive constant in his life. It was his protector during lightless nights. It was his companion in lonliest hours. Ruoye was also a reminder. Reminder of his parents’ death, of his immortality. Thinking about it, Xie Lian didn’t know whether to laugh or cry.

He stopped his train of thoughts once he felt Hua Cheng adjust his hold on him. He looked up only to see Ruoye’ other end wrapping around Hua Cheng’ free arm and pulling it towards him. He laughed.

Jun Wu stared at the silk. During his first banishment, Xie Lian always covered himself in bandages and veil, so Jun Wu could not even estimate when Ruoye was made. The silk itself was a demonic weapon, obviously the same kind as Crimson Rain’ scimitar. If he managed to find out when it was made and what Xie Lian sacrificed, he could use it later to get Xie Lian to join him. Xie Lian will definitely use the silk in future and its actions and origin will sooner or later bring unwanted questions. It is only a matter of time before Xie Lian will have to come clean. He just has to wait now. This is getting too easy.

Ling Wen pondered for a moment before saying, “Then it would be best to borrow a few martial gods to assist you and lend a helping hand.”
“There’s also no need for that. You won’t be able to borrow anyone.”
However, Ling Wen seemed to have taken it into serious consideration and only said, “I’ll give it a try.”

“Noble Jie, you do care!” Ling Wen just sighed.
“It seems like both of you are adamant in making him join us.” Shi Wudu commented.
”He’s a good kid, Water Master-xiong.”
”His heart is in the right place, but gods don’t care about that.”
”And what about him getting Little Pei into trouble?
”We will see the whole truth now. If it really is Little Pei’ doing, it’s not His Highness' fault. I would prefer if he wasn’t dragged into this, but we can’t change the past.”
”Then, we will decide will we ask him to join us after we see what happened in Half Moon Pass?”
”Sounds like a plan.”
”You just want to get close to him so you can embarrass him by calling him ‘didi’.”
”Noble Jie!”

Ling Wen entered the spirit communication array before announcing in a bright tone, “Everyone, the Emperor has an important task to be handled in the North and urgently needs people. Which martial god Highness can lend out two martial officials from their Palace Halls to help?”
The moment her voice faded, Mu Qing’s floaty voice emerged, “I’ve heard that the Emperor isn’t in the North right now, so I’m afraid you’re borrowing people for His Highness the Crown Prince, right?”
Xie Lian thought: Are you keeping guard at the spirit communication array all day long…?

Feng Xin snorted.

I wish I could just slap him to shut him up, Ling Wen thought.

“Oh.” Ling Wen said as most of the gods laughed. “I guess His Highness’ thoughts won’t be the only one we will be able to hear.”
That could be a problem. Jun Wu thought. If he accidentally gives himself away, getting Xie Lian to join him will be much harder.

But instead of doing it, she started speaking with a smile. “Xuan Zhen, why am I always seeing you in the array these two days? It seems like you’ve been stealing time to slack off and now you’re quite idle. Congratulations, congratulations.”
Mu Qing replied in a light tone, “My hand is injured, so I’m recuperating.”

Feng Xin huffed. Mu Qing was purposely making things harder for Xie Lian, that much was obvious. But, on the other hand, he did descend to the Human realm just to help Xie Lian with his task. Just what was his endgame? Why did he always had to act so difficult?

I wanted to get at least 2 gods to help His HIghness, but Mu Qing had to ruin it.

“It’s okay, Ling Wen. I appreciate your help.” Xie Lian said. Ling Wen nodded.

Xie Lian also didn’t believe anyone would come forward, and thus told her, “You see, I said you wouldn’t be able to borrow anyone.”
Ling Wen responded, “If Xuan Zhen didn’t say anything, I would have indeed been able to.”

“You just have to make things more complicated.” Feng Xin muttered, not being able to stay silent anymore.
“Me?”
“Yes, you! His Highness was always kind to you! And how do you repay him? You keep sabotaging him from the moment he ascended!”
“Oh, you are one to talk! What gives you the right to act so high and mighty?”
“At least I-” Feng Xin and Mu Qing’ quarrel was cut short by Quan Yizhen. The martial god of the west shut up the gods of the south by slamming their heads on the floor.
“What? I want to watch.” He said to gods that stared at him. Ling Wen keeps telling me that she can’t find Shixiong in the Human realm nor in the Heaven realm. So, that leaves the Ghost realm and Crimson Rain. Maybe I can finally find Shixiong with this.

Xie Lian smiled. “Those words of yours had been as if you were carrying a pipa, but concealing half its face, beautifully blurring the scene to some degree. People would have thought they were going to help the Emperor with some work, so of course they would come. But when they come and realize they are going to have to work with me, I’m afraid there would be trouble. How could we work together like that? In any case, I’m used to being alone, and I’m not missing an arm or a leg, so let’s just go with this. Thank you for your trouble, I’ll leave now.”
Ling Wen was also powerless. Thus, she cupped her hands in a salute before saying, “Alright. I wish Your Highness’ journey goes smoothly, and may the blessings of Heaven’s Officials be upon you.”
Xie Lian replied, “No paths are bound!” Waving his hand, he left in a confident and carefree manner.

Scene changed. By the side of a major road, there was a small teahouse. There were mountains and bodies of water, there were people and a city. The teahouse’s tea sommelier was exceedingly idle, since he currently didn’t have any customers. Thus, he moved a small stool to the door of the store and began looking at the mountain, the water, the people and the city. He was happily looking when, from afar, he saw a Taoist clad in white walking over. The Taoist was covered in dust, looking as if he had been walking for a very long time. When he came closer, he walked past the small teahouse, before suddenly stopping in his tracks and slowly retracing his steps. The Taoist tilted up his bamboo hat with his hand before raising his head. He only took one glance at the store before he started speaking with a smile. “‘Chance Encounter’ little store, the name is interesting.”

Xie Lian then asked, “Excuse me, may I ask if Mount Yu Jun is nearby?”
The tea sommelier pointed in a direction for him, before replying, “It is in this region.”
I’ve finally arrived, Xie Lian thought.

“Xie-xiong, what happened to you?”
“Ah, nothing much, really! On my way down I tripped on a cloud.”
“Xie-xiong!”
“Gege, please, be more careful.”
“It’s okay, San Lang. Really! The road I landed on was nice, I got to see some really nice flowers!”

Entering the teahouse, Xie Lian picked a table beside the window before asking for some tea and snacks. He finally got seated after his previous difficulties, when he suddenly heard endless wailing and the sound of beating drums from outside the room. Xie Lian turned his gaze toward the street before seeing a group of people from all ages escorting a crimson-red marriage sedan as they walked past the teahouse. This procession was surrounded by an extremely odd air. At first glance, they seemed to be the relatives delivering the bride. But if one looked closely, they would notice how the faces of these people all had solemn expressions—expressions of grief, anger, dread, yet the only emotion that wasn’t present was joy. Whatever the case, it didn’t have the appearance of a wedding. However, contrary to that thought, everyone was wearing red flowers as they played wind instruments and beat their drums. This situation was really too strange. That tea sommelier carried a copper teapot in his hand and raised it up high to pour some tea. He had also seen this scene, but he only shook his head before leaving.

Xie Lian followed that strange, departing procession with his eyes, before pondering for a brief moment. He was just about to take out the scroll Ling Wen had given him to look over one more time, when he suddenly felt something dazzling flit by. The moment Xie Lian raised his head, a silver butterfly flew past his eyes.

“San Lang, I’ve been thinking.”
“Yes, gege?”
“How did you know I was there?”
“I promise I will tell gege the truth once we are in a more private setting. Lots of unwanted ears.”
Xie Lian nodded, satisfied with the answer.

Unknown to them, Ling Wen and gods of the south were wondering the same question.

Xie Lian couldn’t help but reach out a hand toward it. This butterfly was extremely intelligent. Not only was it not frightened, it even temporarily stopped on his fingertips, both wings glittering and beautiful to the utmost degree. Under the sunshine, it looked as if it was a fragment of an illusion. After a moment, however, it flew away. Xie Lian waved at it, something that could be considered as his goodbye. But when he turned back, his table had two more people sitting there.

“Jiejie, I thought you said you failed to get helpers.” Shi Wudu commented.
“I did. These two officials contacted me afterwards, separately. Apparently, they heard my request and decided to volunteer.”

This table had four sides. One person sat on the left and another sat on the right, each taking one side. Both people were teenage boys who looked around eighteen or nineteen years old. The one on the left was taller, with facial expressions that looked quite defined and brightly handsome. Within his gaze was an arrogant and obstinate light. The right side had very light skin. He looked delicate and pretty, yet also refined. However, his expression looked somewhat overly cold and apathetic, an appearance that made it seem as if he wasn’t too happy. In fact, the color of the faces of both people didn’t look that great.

Xie Lian blinked his eyes before asking: “You two are?”
The person on the left replied: “Nan Feng.”
The person on the right responded: “Fu Yao.”
“It’s not like I’m asking for your names… Xie Lian thought.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Feng Xin, Mu Qing and Shi Qingxuan exclaimed.
“It means that your disguises are awful.” Hua Cheng codly said.
“San Lang!”
“Am I wrong, gege?”
“No, but-”
“You knew?”
“And you didn’t say anything?”
“Why?”
“Of course! Just let us act as fools!”
“You went down on your own, just like me, don’t act offended now!”
“Feng Xin. Mu Qing.” Xie Lian called and somehow, the two gods stopped their yelling. Quan Yizhen putting his hands on the back of their heads probably also helped.
“You two came down to help me and I am truly grateful for that. Two of you also came wearing disguises. I assumed that you wanted to keep your identity hidden and decided to respect that. I apologize if I offended you by doing that.” I also feared that if you knew I recognized you, you would leave me again, was left unsaid.
“I… It’s okay, Your Highness. We could have made better disguises anyway.” Feng Xin said.
“Hmph.”

At that moment, Ling Wen suddenly transmitted her voice over. She said, “Your Highness, there are two small martial gods from Middle Heaven who are willing to help. They’ve already gone down to look for you, so they should have arrived by now.”
Xie Lian looked at these two small martial gods. “Ling Wen ah, I think they don’t look like they came down to help me, and instead it looks more like they want to retrieve my good-for-nothing head. Did you deceive them to get them to come?”

“I did not.” Ling Wen said when she noticed that gods were staring at her, waiting for an answer.

Since he got no reply, Xie Lian turned his attention to 2 gods next to him. “Was it Nan Feng and Fu Yao? To be willing to come and help me, let me thank you in advance.”
The two of them only nodded their heads, both appearing to have a somewhat lofty attitude. Xie Lian had the tea sommelier bring two more cups of tea. Picking up his cup, he scraped the tea leaves before casually asking, “Which Highness’ Palace are you under?”

Nan Feng replied: “Nan Yang Palace Hall.”
Fu Yao said: “Xuan Zhen Palace Hall.”
“….”
Image flickered before it showed 3 figures. In the center was a little boy with bandaged face, standing in the cart. Next to him, on each side, were two older boys. One had a broken arm while the other had a few petals stuck in his hair.
“I won’t pull this cart!”
“Who asked you to do it?”
The two boys continued to argue as their voices faded away, like the owner of the memory had issues with recalling the scene.

“What was that?” Yushi Huang asked.
“That happened back when we were still humans.” Feng Xin replied, surprised.
“Their demwanor reminded me of how they used to act before.” Xie Lian said.
“It seems like we will be able to hear thoughts and see memories relevant to the future.” Ling Wen concluded.

Does he remember me or not? Mu Qing thought, ignoring the ache in his heart. He shook his head. He was a god now, he did not need Xie Lian’ pity anymore.

“Who was the kid on the cart? Stories only mention three of you.” Shi Wudu asked.
“That was a kid His Highness picked up on the street.” Mu Qing said.
“Prince Xiao Jing wanted to punish him for ruining His Highness’ act of God-Pleasing Martial Warrior.” Feng Xin added.
“He…” Xie Lian furrowed his eyebrows.
“Xie-xiong?”
Xie Lian stayed silent. His memories were many, and a lot of them were buried deep, almost forgotten. But he did remember saving this boy during the celebration. He also remembered that he met him a few days afterwards, when Qi Rong was tormenting the poor boy. He took the boy with Mu Qing and Feng Xin to Mount Taicang because the boy said he was alone. If he remembered correctly, the boy said that his mother was gone. Goushi read his fate too. He was angry and yelling, his face even turned red.
Red…
Xie Lian looked up only to notice that all of the gods were looking at him. “I think… I think that his name was Hong. His name meant red, I’m sure of it.” He finally said.

Next to him, Hua Cheng straightened. His Highness remembers me?

Xie Lian swallowed a mouthful of tea before asking, “Your Palaces’ Generals allowed you to come?”
The both of them responded, “My Palace’s General didn’t know I came.”
So that’s how we are going to do this? “Then, do you know who I am?”
Nan Feng replied, “You are His Royal Highness the Crown Prince.”
Fu Yao said, “You are the correct path for the human world, you are the heart of the universe.”

“Why did you come if you are going to act like a bitch?”
“You!”
“Ming-xiong!”

Xie Lian choked once, before he asked Nan Feng in an uncertain manner, “Just now, did he roll his eyes?”
Nan Feng responded, “He did, let him scram.”
Fu Yao smiled sarcastically as he stated, “Ling Wen Zhen Jun said that if you were willing, you could come. So, for what reason would I scram and leave?”
Neither of you look like you want to be here.

“See? Even His Highness noticed it.” Ming Yi said.
“It’s still not nice, Ming-xiong.”
Earth Master just shrugged.

“Let me confirm once. Are you two really voluntarily doing this? If you’re not, by all means, don’t force yourself ah.”
The two of them both said, “I willingly volunteered.”
The words the two of you actually wanted to say were ‘I want to commit suicide’, right? Xie Lian hought.
“In short—” Xie Lian began, “Let’s first discuss the real work. You guys already know why we came to the North this time, so I won’t start explaining from the beginning…”
The two of them both said, “I don’t know why.”
“….”

“Noble Jie, you didn’t inform them of the mission?”
“I tried, but they left the moment I told them the location.” She shook her head. “Martial gods.” She exhaled, sounding defeated.

Xie Lian was incapable of doing anything and could only take out the scroll before saying, “Then it would be best if I explain everything from the start. It was said that many years ago in Mount Yu Jun, there was a bride and a groom who were about to be wed. The couple loved each other very much. The bridegroom waited for the procession that delivered the bride, but even after waiting for a long time, he didn’t see the bride arrive. The bridegroom began to feel anxious, and thus began to look for the bride’s family. The result was his father-in-law and mother-in-law informing him that his bride had long set off. The two households reported this to the officials before they began looking in all directions. However, from beginning to end, they never found her. Thus, it was inevitable that people harbored suspicions that the bride herself didn’t wish to marry, resulting in her colluding with the procession before escaping. But who would have known that after a few years, another new couple married and the nightmare repeated itself. The bride disappeared again. However, this time she didn’t leave without a trace. On a small road, people found a foot that something hadn’t quite finished eating.”

Chapter Text

After finishing the story, Xie Lian said, “That’s more or less the big picture.”
As the two martial gods’ expressions looked very uncooperative, he wasn’t sure if they were listening or not. If they hadn’t been listening, Xie Lian didn’t have any choice but to explain the situation once again. Yet contrary to what he had expected, Nan Feng raised his head before wrinkling his forehead. He asked, “Do the missing brides have anything in common with each other?”

Xie Lian replied, “There were some rich brides and some poor ones. There were beautiful ones and ugly ones. Some were wives, and others were concubines. In short, the disappearances completely lack a pattern. One simply cannot determine the preferences of this ghost bridegroom.”

“Mm,” Nan Feng grunted once, before raising his tea cup and taking a sip. He seemed to have started pondering over their problem. On the other hand, Fu Yao didn’t even bother touching the tea cup Xie Lian pushed toward him. He just leisurely and continuously wiped his fingers with a white handkerchief before he asked indifferently, “Your Highness the Crown Prince, how did you decide that the ghost is a bridegroom? That can’t be certain. No one has ever seen it before. How can you tell if it’s a man or a woman, if it’s old or young? Are you thinking of things too simply?”

Xie Lian smiled before answering, “The conclusion written on this scroll was a summary by the Heavenly Officials from Ling Wen’s Palace Hall. ‘The ghost bridegroom’ is just the popular name used among the people. However, what you’ve said really makes sense.”

“I don’t get it, Ming-xiong.” Shi Qingxuan said.
“Hm?”
“They are pretending to be some random officials who have no relations to Xie-xiong, right?”
“En.”
“So why are they then acting in perfect sync? Even if solving the mission is a priority, few hiccups would not cause harm and would only solidify their disguises.”
“Because they are idiots.” Earth Master replied matter of factly.
Xie Lian tried to hide his smile, while Hua Cheng laughed.

Soon, the night fell and the three of them temporarily left the small teahouse. Xie Lian put on his bamboo hat before he started to walk. After walking for a bit, he suddenly became aware that the two people behind him hadn’t followed. Bewildered, Xie Lian turned around to take a look, before realizing that those two were staring at him in bewilderment as well. Nan Feng asked, “Where are you going?”
Xie Lian replied, “I’m going to search for a place to stay. Fu Yao, why are you rolling your eyes again?”
Nan Feng asked again in bewilderment, “Then why are you walking toward the mountains and the wild?”
To find a cave- Oh, right. They are martial gods, they can use their temples. They don’t need to sleep outdoors in the wilderness.

Xie Lian smiled and ignored the looks that were sent his way. He turned to face Hua Cheng and a smile left his face. Over the last few days, Xie Lian liked to think that his understanding of Hua Cheng got much better than it was when they met. But still, he could not completely identify the emotion that he now saw on Hua Chneg’ face. It looked like worry? Sadness? Maybe even guilt? But why?
“San Lang, is everything okay?” He asked, taking Hua Cheng’ hands into his.
Hua Cheng looked him in the eyes, the unnamed emotion never leaving his face. “Gege, please promise me this: next time you don’t have a place to sleep or rest, please call me. You don’t deserve… You deserve so much better.”
Xie Lian’ heart skipped a beat. He wanted to say that there is no need, that he could handle it. But look on Hua Cheng’ face, the tone of his voice… He buried his head in Hua Cheng’ robes. “I…I promise. Thank you.”

The three of them found a worn-out and damaged local shrine. The plate holding the incense was broken, and the whole place gave the feeling that it was rarely frequented. The Earth God’s name was engraved on a small, round stone plaque. Xie Lian called out to him a few times. It had been many years since someone had called or made an offering to this local Earth God. When he suddenly heard someone calling him, his eyes widened. He saw the three of them standing in front of him. Even the area around their bodies was covered with a rich layer of divine light. It was simply impossible to see their faces clearly. Jumping up with great alarm, the Earth God trembled and shivered before asking, “Do the three Heavenly Officials have any orders for the humble me?”
Xie Lian nodded his head in greeting before speaking, “There are no orders. We merely wanted to ask if there are any General Nan Yang or General Xuan Zhen temples in the vicinity?”
The Earth God didn’t dare to slight them, and thus replied, “This, this, this…” He calculated on his fingers before saying, “Around five li from here, there is a temple to provide offerings to, to, to General Nan Yang.”

Xie Lian pressed both of his hands together before replying, “Many thanks.” Xie Lian fumbled around before finding some coins to use as an offering to the Earth God’s shrine. Then, upon spotting the incense sticks scattered to the side, he straightened them before lighting them up. During this process, Fu Yao had rolled his eyes so many times. Do his eyes ever get tired?

“Earth Master is right. You really are idiot.” Feng Xin said.
“At least I had enough brain to come up with a plausible pseudonym.”
“Generals, please.” Shi Wudu cut them off before a new fight could start.

As expected, five li later, they really spotted a temple. It was erected beside the roadside, and it looked to be popular and prosperous. Although the temple was rather small, everything one would need was there. Still, the place bustled with unusual excitement and noise as people came and left. The three of them concealed themselves before entering the temple. And sure enough, a Godly statue of an armored Nan Yang Martial God holding a bow was precisely what was located on the altar for offerings.
The moment Xie Lian saw this Godly statue, he went Uh huh…It looks nothing like Feng Xin.

“It’s not that bad!” Feng Xin yelled.
“It is.” Mu Qing said.
“Hey, at least I don’t demand-”
Any further argument was stopped by Xie Lian’ laugh. He was laughing so hard, his shoulders were shaking. Wind Master also joined him and soon. Most gods followed their lead. Hua Cheng just smiled sadly as he offered a handkerchief to Xie Lian, noticing tears that were silently going down his face.

Fu Yao continuously found fault in the details of the Godly statue. It was either “the shape was distorted”, or “the colors of the paint were vulgar”, or “the technique the artist used was of inferior quality”. He even commented on how the artist’s tastes were too strange.

“So, general Xuan Zhen is basically saying that general Nan Yang looks handsome and that these statues don’t do him justice.”
“I AM NOT!” “THE FUCK HE IS!”
“Lao Pei, please don’t start a new fight.”

Soon, yet another young lady came inside to pay homage to Nan Yang. As she piously kneeled, he began to talk warmly. “All things considered, Nan Yang Zhen Jun’s home ground is in the Southeast. I didn’t expect the incense burning for Nan Yang to be this strong in the North as well.”
Fu Yao stood to the side and smiled faintly before saying, “Not bad, not bad. General Nan Yang receives no small measure of love and respect.”

“Don’t you even dare.”
“Noble Jie!”

Xie Lian responded, “Although, I have a question. I don’t know…”
Nan Feng cut him off. “If you wish to say ‘I don’t know whether it’s something suitable to ask’, then just don’t say it.”
Xie Lian thought, “No, I wanted to say, ‘I don’t know whether anyone could answer it’.”
“I know what you wanted to ask. You must have been wondering, out of so many believers who had come here today, why were there such a large number of women, right?” Fu Yao spoke.
That was precisely the question I wanted to ask. I had many female believers only because I was good-looking.
The girl in the temple slowly turned around.
Fu Yao yelled, “Too ugly!”

“General, that was unnecessary.”
“If she’s ugly, she is ugly.”

Hua Cheng stilled. Girl looked average, just like any other girl her age should look. No scars, no curse marks, no disfigured face. If she was ugly, then what was he?

Xie Lian choked for a moment before he managed to speak, “Fu Yao, you can’t say something like that about a girl.”Even if it’s objective truth.

If my real face is ugly, would you still want to see it?
What if I’m discolored, ugly, monstrous, and horrible; what will you do?
Hua Cheng’ words echoed in Xie Lian’ head. It made him feel guilty for reasons he could not understand.
“San Lang?”
“Your Highness?”
“I…” Xie Lian paused for a moment. Outer appearance was obviously something Hua Cheng was not confident about. He was scared when he showed it to Xie Lian, whom he trusted. And Xie Lian was not going to lose that trust. He raised himself up, putting his arms around Hua Cheng’ neck. He put his mouth close to Hua Cheng’ ear. This way, he could talk to him without unwanted listeners.

“Does San Lang remember what I told him before we came here?” He whispered.
I like your true appearance. I would not mind seeing it more often if you are comfortable with it.
“This San Lang remembers everything gege says.”
“I think that San Lang should hear it again. San Lang looks really handsome. I like it. I would like to see it again someday.”
Xie Lian knew his words could not just make Hua Cheng’ fears go away. But maybe, just maybe, by being with Hua Cheng, he could help him overcome them. So he hugged the ghost tightly one more time.

“Ho, ho.” Pei Ming quietly said while elbowing Ling Wen.

Three gods soon noticed a gigantic hole that could be seen at the back of girl’ skirt. It was truly impossible to pretend they had not seen it.
Fu Yao was shocked at first, but he quickly calmed down. On the other hand, the pulsing veins on Nan Feng’s forehead disappeared without a trace.

“He looks so scared, Ming-xiong.”
“En.” Earth Master said as he took the snack from sleeve.

When he saw how their complexion changed, Xie Lian hurriedly said, “Don’t fret, don’t fret.”
After that, young girl retrieved her incense and she kneeled down once more. Then she began to pay her respects as she started to talk, “Protect us, General Nan Yang. Female believer Little Ying prays that the ghost bridegroom will be captured as soon as possible. Don’t let innocent people suffer his evil…”

Xie Lian felt a headache as he asked, “What should we do? We can’t let her leave like this, can we? She’ll be seen by everyone on her way home.”
Fu Yao replied indifferently, “Don’t ask me. The one she’s worshiping isn’t my General Xuan Zhen. There wasn’t harassment, I didn’t see anything.”
On the other hand, Nan Yang’s handsome face just alternated between green and white. He could only wave his hand around, but he couldn’t say anything. After all these years, he still…

“Would Your Royal Highness like to share the story with us? It seems like an interesting one.” Pei Ming said.
“No!” Feng Xin yelled while Mu Qing outright laughed.
“Maybe some other time, if general Nan Yang allows it.” Xie Lian said with a smile.

Xie Lian took off his outer robe and dropped it. Following a breeze, that robe floated toward the young girl’s body before blocking that indecent hole on her skirt. With that done, the three of them released a sigh of relief.
However, that gust of wind was really too perceptible. It scared the young girl and made her look around in all directions. She then took off that robe, hesitated for a moment, before placing it on the stage of the statue. She was still completely unaware of her own situation. As her incense had finished burning, she began to prepare to leave. If they really allowed her to walk out and about, Xie Lian was afraid that this young lady would no longer dare to face people because of her shame. When Xie Lian saw the two people beside him were just stiff and stiffer, both looking completely useless—he sighed a bit. Nan Feng and Fu Yao only felt the space by their sides empty before they realized that Xie Lian had already taken a form mortals could see and jumped down.

As expected, the girl shrieked. Xie Lian was just about to speak, when the girl reflexively threw out a slap as she yelled, “Ah, harassment!”
“Pa!” Xie Lian earned a slap on his face.
The sound of the slap was sharp and clear. When they heard it, the faces of the two people who were still crouching by the Godly statue both began to rapidly twitch in the same way.

“They refused to help him, but they still got mad at the poor girl when he got hurt.” Yushi Huang said quietly, mostly to herself.
“That’s because they are idiots who can and will blame everyone but themselves.” Hua Cheng replied to her, making sure that the said generals heard him.

Although he suffered a slap, Xie Lian was neither annoyed nor angry. He only resolutely passed over his outer robe, before rapidly saying a few words in a quiet tone. Upon hearing him, that girl became shocked. The moment she touched the back of her skirt, her face immediately became red as her eyes filled with tears in less than a split second. One was unable to tell if she was angered to tears or shamed to tears, but she firmly grasped the robe Xie Lian gave her, before she rushed out of the temple and left. Only Xie Lian’s fragile-looking figure was left in that empty temple. When a cool breeze passed through, he suddenly felt a bit cold.

Xie Lian rubbed his face before he turned around. Sporting a red handprint on a cheek, he began speaking to the other two little gods. “Alright. Everything’s fine now.”
The moment his voice faded, Nan Feng pointed at him before asking, “You… Did your wound open?”
Xie Lian looked down before uttering an, “Oh”.

“Xie-xiong, are you sure you just tripped?”
Xie Lian laughed. “Don’t worry, Xuan-jie. It’s just my luck.”

What was revealed after he took off his outer robe was pretty skin as white as jade. However, his chest was covered completely with layer after layer of white cloth, bound extremely tightly. Even his neck and both of his wrists were wrapped with bandages, with countless tiny wounds crawling from underneath the edges of the white cloth. It was truly a shocking sight. After thinking about it, Xie Lian determined that his sprained neck should be fine by now. Thus, he began unbinding his bandages. Fu Yao gave him two glances before asking, “Who was it?”
Xie Lian replied, “What?”
Fu Yao elaborated, “Who was the one who fought against you?”
“Fought? Ah, no one…”
“Then these wounds on your body…” Nan Feng said.
Xie Lian hurriedly explained, “I fell by myself.”
“…”

“It’s okay, really!” Xie Lian said after noticing the looks on the gods’ faces.
“Xie-xiong-” Shi Qingxuan was cut off by the sound of the bell from the clock tower.
“Is someone ascending?”
Ling Wen put her fingers on the temple. “No. It seems that the clock went on by itself.”
“No ascension triggered it?”
“None.”
“That has never happened before.” “Ling Wen Zhen Jun.” Jun Wu called, stopping all guesswork among the gods.
“Yes, my lord?”
“This is indeed an anomaly. Send someone from your palace to investigate.”

Fu Yao muttered something under his breath. Xie Lian couldn’t make out what he had said, but since it was certainly not praise for him trying to be strong, Xie Lian disregarded it. He just focused on unwrapping the cloth around his neck. Yet the moment he finished, Nan Feng and Fu Yao’s gazes became so concentrated, they practically solidified on his neck. A black collar encircled his snow-white neck.

Chapter Text

Sensing their gaze, Xie Lian smiled faintly before turning around. He asked, “Is it your first time seeing a genuine cursed collar?”

“So that’s what it looks like…” Shi Qingxuan quietly spoke.
Earth Master elbowed her. “Don’t be rude.”

Well, this is awkward. “I need a new top.”
Fu Yao rolled his eyes and said, “It would be utterly obscene of you, should you go outside to stroll on the main street with your current appearance.”
Nan Feng mumbled something and grabbed some clothes from the temple for Xie Lian, stopping him from proceeding with his ‘obscene’ plan.
Still awkward.

“You really had to make it difficult, huh.” Feng Xin muttered.
“What did you say?”
Before Mu Qing and Feng Xin could start another fight, Quan Yizhen placed his hands on their shoulders. “Quiet.”

Usually, other gods didn’t really pay attention to the Marital God of the West. As long as he only beat up his own followers, no one cared about what he did or said. But something about his attitude changed when they started watching this. And it made him even more unhinged. So, Mu Qing and Feng Xin decided to drop it. For the time being, that is.

Therefore, Xie Lian took out the scroll Ling Wen Palace Hall had prepared for him before asking, “Do you guys want to take another look at this?”
Nan Feng lifted his head to give him a look before replying, “I’ve already seen it. I think he is the one who needs a better look.”
Fu Yao retorted, “What do you mean I should be the one to take a better look? That scroll didn’t even have any details, utterly worthless. Does it even deserve someone to keep reading it over?”

Wen Ling sighed. No one cared about time nor effort she gave so Heaven could function properly.

“Did you even try to make your disguises work?” Earth Master asked with a blank face. His jab made both gods’ faces go red.

Fu Yao continued, “Ah, where did we leave off at? Oh yes, the reason behind why Nan Yang has so many female worshipers, right?”

“Why do you care so much about that?” The Water Master looked tired as he said this.
“Let him be, Water Master-xiong. Given his vows, it’s only normal that he is curious.”
Wen Ling elbowed him. “Lao Pei.” It was a warning.
“Fine, fine. I’ll stop.”

Okay then. Xie Lian put away the scroll before rubbing that pulsing spot in-between his eyes. If no proper work could be done, then at least this situation could get cleared up.
“You see, the original and correct way to spell his name was Ju Yang. But with a different Chinese character for ‘Ju’. The reason his name had been misinterpreted had been because of a small mishap. Many years ago, a monarch wanted to renovate his temples. To show his sincerity, he personally wrote the words on a plaque for every temple hall. However, when he wrote the inscription on the plaque for Ju Yang Palace Hall, he somehow misspelled the first word.

Feng Xin’ face started going red.

”This time, the official responsible for the temple renovation matters almost worried himself to death. He couldn’t make sense of it. In the end, was His Majesty deliberately changing the name? Or had he not been careful and made a mistake? If it was deliberate, why hadn’t he made a decree and state he wanted to change it to this? But if it wasn’t on purpose, how could he make this kind of low-level mistake? It wasn’t like he could go and say, “Your Majesty, you’re wrong”. Who knew if His Majesty would think he was mocking his carelessness? Maybe His Majesty would even think that he was suggesting his knowledge was superficial and his heart wasn’t sincere! In addition, this was made with his Majesty’s ink treasure. Was it going to become void?” Fu Yao told the story dramatically.

“You are really enjoying this.” Feng Xin muttered, trying to hide his face.

”The hardest thing to guess in this world was an Emperor’s intentions. That official was extremely conflicted. However, after thinking things over, he decided that it was better to cause Ju Yang Zhen Jun some grief rather than making His Majesty feel wronged. One had to admit that the official made the right decision. When His Majesty discovered the mistake, he didn’t say anything. Instead, he invited a whole flock of scholars, before vigorously thumbing through ancient books. After finding countless minor details to justify the reason for the change, they wrote many articles, doing their utmost best to prove that the original spelling was Ju Yang and that ‘old’ Ju Yang had been the wrong way to write it. In short, one night after this event, the whole nation’s Altogether Bright temples turned into Tremendous Masculinity temples.”

“Fascinating.” He Xuan said.
“What is it, Míng-xiōng?”
“How god’ nature can change by something as simple as a story. Makes you wonder.”
“Hm. Never thought about it like that. I guess you are right.” She said, leaning into him.

The Feng Xin who had suddenly gotten a Godly title change didn’t find out about this matter until ten years passed. He had never carefully looked at the signs of his own temples before. One day, he just suddenly felt very gloomy. Why were there so many women who came to worship him in his temples? After he found out what happened, Feng Xin rushed into the summit of the firmament, faced the scorching sun and vast sky, before swearing a round of curses. Unsurprisingly, he shocked all the Heavenly Officials there.

Chuckle escaped Xie Lian.
“They really are dramatic gege. I don’t know how you handled them.” Hua Cheng said, adjusting his arms so Xie Lian could be more comfortable, while still staying in a hug.

”Yin Yu.” Since he already knew the story, Hua Cheng decided to contact Yin Yu and check how their investigation was going.
”Yes, Chengzhu?”
”Any news?”
”Not yet. The intruder didn’t try to break into the Nether Water manor again. I’m still working on figuring out the array they left.”
”Good. What about bell?
”Whatever made it act out is connected to one of Elemental masters. It’s too early to tell which one yet. I left false trails to slow down Ling Wen’ people.
”Good job. A pause. ”What do you want me to do about your shidi?”
”I… I don’t know yet, Chengzhu. I just don’t want to see him now.”
”Understood.”

”After he finished cursing, there wasn’t anything he could do. If they wanted to worship him, then he could only let them worship. It wasn’t like he could make life difficult for these pious and praying women. Thus, he braced himself before listening to their prayers for numerous years. This continued until an honourable monarch felt that this title, Tremendous Masculinity, was simply scandalous, and thus, he changed it to Nan Yang. However, people had not forgotten that other than being a martial god, Nan Yang was also a god who could offer blessings and protection. As long as you didn’t make him curse people out, everything was well!” Fu Yao was very excited as he spoke in a cultured manner, “A lady’s friend, the most effective when praying for a son. The secret booster for the virality of men, Nan Yang, deliverer of children. Ah ha ha, ah ha ha, ah ha ha ha ha ha……”

“You know, it’s not the worst title you could have gotten.” Pei Ming smirked.
Feng Xin just turned around, pretending not to hear him. Last thing he needs is for the Pei Ming to know about his fear.

Xie Lian benevolently resisted the urge to smile. Suddenly, Nan Feng spoke up in an angry tone, “Stop being so weird here. If you feel too idle, don’t panic, you can go sweep the floor.”
Fuck. Xie Lian thought.

Both gods of the south stared at him, too shocked to react. The rest of the gods also looked shocked. Hua Cheng laughed.
“So, that is how gege handles them.”

The moment he said those words, Fu Yao’s face also turned as black as a pot. He smiled sarcastically before saying, “Saying something like that, people who didn’t know would have thought that you gods at the Nan Yang Palace Hall would have aided His Highness the Crown Prince.”
Nan Feng also smiled sarcastically. “Your General is indeed someone who would kick their benefactor in their teeth, what more can you say?”
“Uh…” Xie Lian had just wanted to interfere, but Fu Yao started speaking with a chuckle.
“Ah ha ha, your General is only a pot that calls the kettle black. What qualifications do you have to say these words?”

“What gives you right?” Hua Cheng said slowly. “You both left. What gives you the right to act like that?”
“Is that what he told you?” Mu Qing yelled.
“I… I…” Feng Xin tried to respond, but words failed him. Yes, Xie Lian told him back then to leave. He followed the order and left. But, was that the right thing to do?

“San Lang. “ Xie Lian said, turning to face Hua Cheng. He placed his hand on Hua Cheng’ cheek. “You don’t need to fight my battles.”
“But gege doesn’t have to fight them alone, either.” Xie Lian smiled and then turned to face his old friends.
“I don’t blame either of you for what happened in the past. Let the past stay in the past.”

Jun Wu studied Xianle and his former servants. Hua Cheng seemed dead set on staying by Xianle’ side, it will take time to turn Xianle against him. But maybe, he could use these two to speed up the process. They both seemed to still care for their former prince while simultaneously hating each other. He could probably stage a few missions, cause them to turn Xianle against Hua Cheng and then turn them against each other. While both of them were competent gods, for some reason they were a really awful duo around Xianle. He could use that.

That way, Xianle will be only his.

Xie Lian couldn’t take it anymore as he watched the two of them use him as a big stick that hammered both of their General’s backs. He cut in, “Wait, wait! Stop it, stop it.”Naturally, no one paid attention to him. In addition, they actually started fighting. Xie Lian sighed tiredly. While fighting, one of them hit the bowl and fruits rolled everywhere on the floor.
There is no stopping them.
Thus, he sat down in a corner before sighing, “Ah, how unlucky”. He picked up the small steamed bun that had rolled to his side. Then, he rubbed and removed the skin before preparing to eat it.

He Xuan silently took a bag of snacks from one of his pockets. He reached out to Xie Lian slowly, behind Shi Qingxuan’ back, making sure he wasn’t drawing any attention to himself. Once he got prince’ attention, he silently passed him a bag. Xie Lian studied a bag before realizing what it was. Once he did realise, he looked the ghost king right in the eyes, studying him. After a few moments, he nodded his thanks and turned to face Hua Cheng, offering him some of the snacks.

“Thank you.” Hua Cheng spoke in their array.
”I didn’t do it for you.”
”I know.”

No one should ever have to starve.

However, when Nan Feng glimpsed this out of the corner of his eye, he immediately swept out his palm to hit that bun away. “Don’t eat it!”
Fu Yao also stopped, before he spoke in a shocked and a disdaining manner, “It even fell into the ashes. You can still stomach that?”

“Oh, so now you notice him.” Yushi Huang spoke.
“San Lang?” Xie Lian whispered.
“Hm?”
“When we take a break from this, can you make sure I get some alone time with the Rain Master? I… I want to thank her for what she did for me back… back when I was still a young god.”
“Of course, gege.”

Xie Lian took the chance to wave his hands again. He said, “Stop, stop, stop. I have something to say. First, that Crown Prince you’re referring to is precisely me. This prince hadn’t even said anything, so don’t use me as your weapon to attack each other.” He paused for a moment. “I believe that both of your Generals would never do something like this.For you to lack propriety like this, how would their prestige survive?”

Three Tumors burst out laughing.
“Now he’s just messing with you.” Pei Ming said.

The moment he said those words, the expressions of the two martial gods turned a bit strange. Xie Lian continued and said, “Second, you’re here to help me, right? Then, are you guys supposed to listen to me, or am I supposed to listen to you?”
After quite a while, the two of them finally said, “We’re supposed to listen to you.” Although they said that, their faces looked as if they were saying, ‘dream on, for us to listen to you.’ Xie Lian was already very satisfied with that response. Thus, he clapped his hands and said, “Alright. Lastly, the third and most important point—if it is necessary to abandon something, then please, just throw me away. Don’t ever throw away food.”

“It seems like they will finally now get some work done.” Shi Qingxuan said.

Nan Feng took a bun and yelled, “If it fell on the ground, don’t eat it anymore!”

****

The tea sommelier was once again sitting at the door, crossing his legs as he relaxed. From far away, he saw three figures slowly approaching. The Taoist who wore simple, white garments and carried a bamboo hat walked in front, while two tall teenagers who wore black clothes followed behind him. That Taoist arrived idly with his arms crossed before he idly spoke, looking even more like an idle person than the tea sommelier himself. The Taoist said, “Mister, sorry for the inconvenience but may I get three cups of tea?”
The tea sommelier replied with a smile, “Coming!”

These three foolish big brothers are here again! What a pity. Each one of them looked more respectable than the other, however, each of their brains are sicker as well! Always talking about this god or that immortal, this ghost or that heaven. These people are all mentally ill. No matter how dignified they looked, what was the use when they were like this?

“If he only knew.” Ling Wen said.

Once again, Xie Lian picked a table beside the window. After they all sat down, Nan Feng spoke up, “Why do you want to come here to speak about this? Can you ensure others won’t hear us?” Xie Lian replied in a warm tone, “It doesn’t matter. Even if others hear us, they wouldn’t do anything. They would only think we’re mentally ill.”

“You were right, Xie-xiong!”

“…”
Xie Lian continued to speak, “In order to prevent the three of us from squandering our time like before, let’s get straight to the point. After having calmed down, did you guys think of any plans?”
Fu Yao’s eyes lit up as he responded in a cold tone, “Let’s kill it!”
Nan Feng snorted. “No shit!”
Xie Lian said, “Nan Feng, you don’t have to be this fierce. Fu Yao didn’t say anything wrong. The fundamental way to solve this problem is precisely to kill it. The problem is, where do we kill it? Who should we kill? How do we kill it? I suggest…” Their discussion was stopped by the wedding procession.
“Wasn’t it said that the native people living in and around the Mount Yu Jun region never dared to make a ruckus or throw a big celebration when they married?”

“A bait?” Ling Wen asked.
“Highly likely, they are way too loud, like they want to be noticed.” Pei Ming responded.

A puff of cold wind blasted over. The curtain on one side of the sedan followed the airflow and fluttered upward. ‘The person’ behind the curtain was using a very strange posture to lie crookedly in the sedan. Her head was also crooked, and what was revealed under her veil was a mouth painted with scarlet red. However, the corners of her smile were overly-exaggerated. The sedan jolted and that veil slid down, exposing a pair of round eyes. Eyes that were staring firmly in their direction. This doll clearly looked like a woman who had broken her neck and was currently laughing soundlessly at them. Sedan wasn’t very stable. That doll’s head also followed the sedan’s movements and swayed. It swayed and swayed until it fell with a loud bang.