AN: You would think I have nothing better to do than draw and write but no such luck. No, I have to force myself to study and catch up with my classes. I just got done with my midterms and finally found some time. Huzzah!

Jolli's BL suggestion for the week: Who Dares Slander My Senior Brother. This one is another I haven't finished yet (I was waiting for updates) but love cause of how naive the MC is. Things of note, MC is very young at the beginning (13 years old or so) while ML is like 17 (I think) when he starts his pursuit so be warned. Also, ML is kind of evil if not hilarious in his attempts to seduce this ignorant kid. Basically, do ya'll want to read about an ML who is secretly evil and pretending to be good chasing after an MC who tries to prove it to everyone else? Here's your novel.

*****

Upon arrival in the city, Yao Da and Xinyi were much closer than before. Learning her boss was friends with Xinyi definitely closed some gaps between the two.

Especially when said girl was very willing to tell embarrassing stories about her boss.

"So what's this about his hatred of trees now?"

"Oh, yeah. A-Ren was so silly sometimes." She laughed, making the demoness' heart melt at the sound. "Every time he got bothered by Elder Shao, he'd beat his head against a tree. It was hilarious."

Yao Da couldn't believe this girl, saying such things about her boss. Master Xieren was the most feared man in the darklands. The fact that she spoke so casually about her boss, who would rip people limb from limb when in a good mood, was shocking, to say the least.

Her Xinyi was either an idiot or truly close to her master.

"Also, did I mention how small A-Ren used to be?" She chuckled, recalling how she used to tower over Xieren when they were young. Then those two jerks got taller. 

Ah, at least she had the memories of when Xieren used to have to look up at her.

She tapped her chest, her breasts jiggling somewhat as she did. "He used to be get buried in my chest and complain about suffocating." 

And there it was. That strange feeling Yao Da had been struggling with since the subject of Master Xieren cropped up. At first, it was the intimate way Xinyi addressed him, making the demoness want to snap.

Then she started talking about all the old times they'd shared. The little inside jokes and memories Yao Da couldn't share as she listened in second hand.

She hated this sticky feeling welling in her chest so she changed the subject.

"Speaking of small, I'm surprised by how enthusiastic you were before about those guys."

"Those guys?"

"The ones who attacked us before." She reminded, growling a bit at the memory. 

On their way back, they were attacked by a strange group of cultivators in black robes. They spoke with a disjointed version of the demon tongue and seemed to be disappointed about finding Yao Da.

They wanted a demon but only a specific one. 

While the fight was short, as Yao Da was not just a pretty face, she was unable to get any information off the living ones. They refused to talk, even after her 'gentle' persuasion.

If there were humans acting this blatantly so close to her master's territory, she'd have to tell him soon enough.

"Oh, them." Recalling the incident, Xinyi sighed. "I'm disappointed you didn't let me interrogate them."

"You? What would you do?" Yao Da had deliberately done her interrogation far from Xinyi because she didn't want the younger woman to think badly of her. They had gotten close and her knowing what she did to get her information was sure to scare her off.

Obviously, she couldn't let Xinyi leave yet. Her master's orders were absolute, after all. It wasn't anything personal.

"You didn't manage to get anything from them, right?" She pressed, watching the demoness look away. "Thought so. Ah, if we had used some Harmonic Tune roots, we could have probably gotten a lot done."

"Harmon- what do those do?"

"Ah! I'm so glad you asked, Sister Yao." She chimed, looking excited as she moved in close to whisper. "Harmonic Tune root is a very rare but oh so useful herb. When used in tandem with red root and some black tree oil, it makes a wonderful salve and helps treat burns."

"And how would that have helped us?" An elegant brow rose, curious to hear how this would turn out.

Xinyi smiled so sweetly, even as her words sent chills down

"Oh, and when burned and inhaled, it's a potent poison that causes severe abdominal and joint pain. Supposedly, it's a similar feeling to having your limbs slowly rot away. If we used it on them, surely they would have told us all we wish to know."

"S-should a righteous and upright cultivator like yourself be using such underhanded means?"

"Underhanded?" Xinyi blinked, looking confused. Did Yao Da not know who her master was? If the word underhanded was used on such a tame trick as this, what kind of words would they use when describing her master? His tricks were nothing compared to this.

"Nonsense. Those men chose not to make things easy so why not return the favor." She huffed, looking indignant. "This Xinyi is just a sweet and innocent girl yet they chose to wrong us."

"I'm not seeing a sweet or innocent girl..." She assured her, a subtle growl echoing through her chest. "But neither am I disliking this devious girl. I thought you cultivators would be dull and boring."

If there was anything that appealed to a demon, it was ruthlessness. While most liked grand displays, Yao Da liked the more subdued kind. Cruelty from an unexpected source was like chancing across a rare gem buried in plain stone.

It was very attractive and made her long to dig her claws into the source.

Xinyi chuckled, feeling happy that her companion still liked her despite her hobbies. She liked healing but if she wanted to be useful, learning the poison arts was necessary.

And a bit fun.

"If it'll allow me to get back to Elder Shao and Brother Xieren sooner, I don't mind it either way." She stated, smiling brightly.

Yao Da grimaced, disliking that this human was paying more mind to others. She was right in front of her and yet she thought about others? Was she just air to this silly girl?

"I promised Master Xieren I'd keep you safe but don't think I won't abandon you if become too much trouble." She shot back, hoping for a reaction. She wanted Xinyi to pay attention to her.

"You won't."

"Eh?" Her eyes narrowed, shocked by the confidence in her voice. "And why is that?"

"Sister Yao is too kind to abandon someone in need."

Elegant brows shot up sky high. "Did you go senile?" She snapped, a bit insulted. "I'm a demon. We aren't kind."

"If you weren't, why did you save me?"

"I told you. Master Xieren asked me to." The fact she only learned that after getting her out of that tree was left unsaid. She'd done that on a whim. Not because she was attracted to the soft voice echoing from the leaves.

Kindly, Xinyi chose not to mention it, knowing there was no point.

"And you chose to follow through." She pressed, walking closer. "Even though you could have easily broken your word?"

Her anger rose as she snapped. "I might be of demon blood but I have honor! I won't break my word."

The moment was quick but once Yao Da regained her temper, she saw they were someplace else. No longer were they in the street, instead, they stood face to face in an alleyway. Xinyi was pressed against the wall, Yao Da's hand resting on the wall beside her head.

The demoness loomed over her, her human guise was not enough to suppress her dark aura as she stared down at her. Yet, despite the position, Xinyi looked so calm, her smile as serene and kind as a fairy.

"And that's why I know you are a good person." She said, staring up at her with a gentle look. "You are willing to allow a human by your side despite all the trouble, for your honor."

Ah, this girl was just too cute!

***

The early morning sun was ruthless, shining down upon Liang Fei to illuminate his past deeds. He had hoped last night had been a dream. A strange and terrifying dream.

Yet here he was, lying naked next to Xieren despite his best intentions.

He'd been covering his face, hoping he'd open his eyes to see the other side was empty but after the fifth time, he accepted what was in front of him.

Xieren slept soundly beside him, his soft snores the only sound in the room. His expression was relaxed, peaceful even. He looked content as he held Liang Fei close to his chest. If observed from afar, the moment might even look tender.

Yet all the elder could think of was escaping from this person's grasp.

The memories of the night before were... ah, it was too graphic to even contemplate. If he didn't stop staring at Xieren's damnably handsome face, he'd never get the memory out of his head.

Damn it, why did he have to remember things so clearly?! Wasn't getting drunk meant to wipe away memory!?

Even now, he recalled every gasp, bite and scratch they'd shared and it was killing him. If he didn't leave now, he would kill himself from the embarrassment.

Yet it was easier said than done. Xieren's arm was wrapped around his abdomen, pinning the elder to his side. His grip was firm, making it hard to move even an inch away.

Ah, was he now going to be used like a body pillow after all that playing? Liang Fei was a messy sleeper, as he disliked being touched as he slept. Waking up in the arms of another was making his skin itch.

With great effort and patience, Liang Fei managed to slip from the younger man's grasp, his naked body uncovered. He didn't bother to look at himself, quickly pushing a long pillow into Xieren's arms as he reached out to grasp him again.

Sweeping brows furrowed as Xieren reached around and found his soft thing. He disliked that it had slipped away but now that it was back in his arms, he could relax. He rolled away, pulling the pillow close and snuggling it.

Liang Fei didn't notice any of this, his concern now on moving. He'd reached the edge of the bed but now he faced a new difficulty.

His body felt like it had been battered by a ruthless beast. It wasn't far from the truth but surely it shouldn't be something like this.

Ah, Xieren is a liar! He inwardly cried as he struggled to his feet. The limbs wobbled under his weight. Make me feel good, he said. It won't hurt, he says.

All god damn lies!

It took him a while to wobble out the room, his robes barely even approaching proper. Yet at the moment, Liang Fei had only one goal.

A bath.

Because gods, did he need one! He still felt all kinds of sweaty and he didn't want to think about the wet feeling between his legs. It was best not to question what... 'that' was and just pretend it was sweat.

Thick, sticky sweat.

As Liang Fei tried to distance himself from the reality of his situation, he was spotted by two young men. The two had noticed him fairly quickly and were whispering to one another as he approached.

"Is... is that him?" The first whispered, subtly pointing to Liang Fei as he struggled down the hall.

"Must be." The second nodded, his cheeks a bit flushed. "He came from that room, right?"

"He's not what I expected though. He looks way too handsome to have made all that noise."

"Ah, but look at him." The second looked him over. There were marks all over his exposed skin. "That customer showed no mercy."

"And here I was envying him for having such an energetic partner."

Liang Fei, who was leaning against the wall as he walked, was shocked when he saw the two men stand in front of him. They were dressed in fine clothes and smelled... well, like one would expect in such a place.

Like sex.

Liang Fei felt his face flush, recalling how his own room had shared a similar smell. No no, he had to get that out of his head. Bath! Baths always made those kinds of thoughts go away. Just drown your memories in the warm water and he'd be fine.

"Excuse me." He said, standing up straight. He was slightly taller than the two, who stared up at him with a strange gleam in their eye.

Eh, were these children sick?

"Wow, uncle is tall too!" The first cried out, looking mesmerized. He and his friend had been speculating about what kind of person was entertaining that customer in the VIP room yet to learn that he was tall too was...

Ah, how very cool~

The first young man stared up at Liang Fei like he had done something grand by being tall while the other stared at his companion with dismay.

"Forgive Xiao Na. He's an idiot." The other cut in, pushing his companion aside. "Uncle, are you looking for the baths?"

"Ah, yes." The elder relaxed, turning to the calmer of the two. "Do you happen to know which way?"

The excited youth finally regained his sanity, no longer mesmerized into silence.

"Of course. We're going the same way." He chimed in, getting closer to Liang Fei. "Would you like to come with?"

"Xiao Na." The second man's tone was heavy with an underlying warning.

"Relax, Xiao Ru." He assured, hooking his arm with Liang Fei's. "You are still my favorite. Uncle just happens to be pretty tall and handsome, so I can't not help him right?"

"You are ridiculous."

"Love you too~"

Liang Fei chose not to pay much mind to the two young men. He didn't feel comfortable delving into the matter and it was none of his business anyway. These two intended to help him so who was he to question anything about their relationship.

Besides, he'd rather not think about the notion of these two men together. It would just make him think about Xieren and that was a big no.

When they arrived, Liang Fei was shocked to see they were somewhere different. The night before, the elder had seen the baths and none of them, public or private, looked like this.

"Where are we?"

"Staff bath." The calm man, Xiao Ru, answered, prying his partner off Liang Fei's arm. "It wouldn't be good for you to bath in the customer's baths. If you're seen by the boss, you'll get in trouble."

"I would?"

"Well yeah. The boss is a jerk and won't let any of the prostitutes use the same baths as the customers."

"I see." He nodded, understanding.

Wait, so why was he here? Did they think he was... He opened his mouth to deny the claim when a jar was handed to him. It was bright red and matched over a dozen jars lining the wall.

"What's this?

"Some medicinal oils." Xiao Ru answered, tossing one to Xiao Na. "It helps ease the pain from a long night's work. Really, it's a miracle worker."

"Yeah, it's really the only nice thing about this place." Xiao Na Chimed in. "It smells nice and eases pain like it never existed."

"Truly?"

Liang Fei removed his robes, revealing his naked body to the two young men. What they saw was both frightening and arousing. This uncle's body was covered in love marks and bites, mostly on his neck and shoulders.

It was very clear his partner wanted his claim to be seen by all. The fact the marks covered every part of him that couldn't be covered up made that much clear.

Ah, this uncle's partner really was too possessive~ Xiao Na Thought, eyeing the hand-shaped bruises imprinted onto the elder's hips and wrists.

"Yeah, that customer must have had some deep frustration to use you for so long." He couldn't help but mutter as he watched Liang Fei sink into the water.

"Long?"

"Yeah, you've been making noise for hours." Xiao Ru chimed in, dragging his companion over to the booths to put away their clothes. "I could barely eat my breakfast yesterday with all the shouting."

Liang Fei paled. Breakfast? Yesterday?! What was he-

"The customer was impressive." Unaware of how much anxiety was rushing through the elder, Xiao Na continued. "Going on all night and throughout the day. What a man~" He squealed, feeling excited just thinking about it.

"A-a-all day!?" 

Liang Fei couldn't speak any further, his mind reeling. A day!? They'd been... doing all that, for an entire day?  Sure, he vaguely recalled seeing brightness between the sessions but surely he'd have noticed the fucking sun!

Then again, Xieren had been making sure his attention was on... other things.

"Ah~" He cried, ducking his head underwater. Bubbles covered the surface, hiding him from view. Xiao Na and Xiao Ru shared a look, shrugged and went about their business. This uncle was amusing but they too needed a bath.

This left Liang Fei sitting in the pool, letting the oils relax his muscles and ease the tension he hadn't realized he had. Ah, this stuff truly was a miracle.

But as he'd thought, the bath was what he needed. Here, he could just lay back and forget about the outside world for a bit. It was just him and the water.

No Xieren.

No tasks.

No worries.

Yet as he tried to let his mind wander, a song slipping from between his lips, a sound rang out. A sound only he could hear, though it echoed through the room like a pinball.

[NOTIFICATION FOR: HOST 'LIANG FEI']

[WOULD YOU LIKE TO OPEN?]

[YES]       [NO]

This was the sight that greeted the elder as he opened his weary eyes. Ah, even after all this trouble, that annoying god refused to leave him be. With a sigh, he blinked open the notification.

Yet what he saw confused him.

[CONGRATGULATIONS ON COMPLETION OF FIRST TASK, HOST!]

[REWARD: ONE CULTIVATION MANUAL TO RAISE REALM LEVEL]

[CURRENT STATS]

- CULTIVATION REALM LEVEL: QI REFINING IV

- FLESH REFINING LEVEL: MORTAL FLESH VII

Liang Fei frowned, very confused. Not because of the inclusion of his stats, which was admittedly new. He knew he could regain his lost cultivation by completing the ritual given to him that that so-called god but...

Why was his stats so high now?! Sure, he was barely halfway through a single realm but he should be at level one, right?  So why did it rise so much? Doesn't it take years to get that far?!

All these questions and more would remain unanswered by the time Liang Fei arrived back to their room, his robe still a bit wet. Like the night before, his hair was wrapped in a towel but he paid no mind to it. His mind was wandering, still trying to figure out how his cultivation had risen so quickly.

Yet his thoughts, and his heart, stopped as he felt thick arms wrap around him and press him close to a warm chest. For a moment, Liang Fei panicked, thinking he was being attacked but just a quickly relaxed.

He knew these arms.

"Xieren." He mumbled, feeling the man purr behind him. It was a strange feeling, to say the least, but he knew it well.

Xieren tightened his hold, missing the warmth and comfort of having his master in his arms. To say that waking up, expecting to see his lovely eyes staring up at him, only to find a damn pillow was annoying would be an understatement.

Yet now he had his master back in his arms, where he belonged.

(AN: Ya'll have no idea how much I wish this was a modern story so I could make this a shower scene. The possiblities~ wuwu~)

"Shizun!" He cried, pouting as he laid his chin on the top of the elder's head. He loved how well they fit together. "Where did you go?"

"I needed to take a bath." He muttered.

"You left me all alone. Was I not good enough?" Xieren asked, his tone deepening as his instincts told him he should make sure this person was satisfied. He'd hoped Shizun would be too tired to leave his arms and yet he still woke up alone.

How very mean of him.

Liang Fei froze, Xiao Na and Xiao Ru's words echoing in his head. They spoke of how vocal he was and even he himself couldn't deny how much pleasure he felt in Xieren's arms.

Damn it, the bath was supposed to help him forget!!!

Turning around in his arms, Liang Fei stared up at Xieren, his expression calm. If not for the slight flush on his ears, one would say he was completely nonplussed by the contact.

"That is beside the point." He stated as he pushed against Xieren's chest. "You often oversleep so I left to get clean. I was planning on getting some breakfast after getting dressed."

Perhaps food would make it easier to forget.

Xieren smiled, glad his master had intended to return. If he'd taken much longer, Xieren would have to chase him down and show him how much he disliked his master running away. Ah, but Shizun didn't make that mistake.

"Ah, Shizun is too kind to this disciple." He caressed Liang Fei's cheek, drawing it closer. "It's what I love about-"

A hand covered the younger man's mouth, stopping him in his tracks.

"What are you doing?"

Xieren blinked, confused.

"I was about to kiss you." He removed the hand, leaning forward to do that very thing but was met with a confused look from his master.

"Why?"

Why!? Because he wanted to. Because it was what he'd longed to do since he first learned of his feelings for his master. Because Shizun had kissed him first!

More importantly, because it was the only thing they hadn't done throughout their escapade together. Xieren had kissed every inch of skin but those lovely lips and he wanted to do it now that his master's mind was clear of any mind-altering substances.

"Why not?" He replied instead. "We've done a lot more than kiss already."

"That... that was a mistake on my part." Xieren was pushed away, his master staring down at the floor as if he'd wronged him. "I shouldn't have done that to you."

"S-Shizun?"

Liang Fei might not be the best at reading people but even he could sense that Xieren wasn't intended to let the matter go. The junior wanted to talk about this but...

He just couldn't at this moment. It was too mind-boggling and the elder had no one to ask advice for.

"W-we can speak about this later." He cried, pushing Xieren out of the room. "First, go get cleaned up while I fix the room. It is unbecoming for us to leave it a mess."

"Shizun..." No other word could be said as Liang Fei shoved the other man out the room and locked him out. Liang Fei leaned back against the door, his mind reeling as he was confronted once again with the proof of his blunder.

He had slept with his student, enjoyed it even. Ah, he was a terrible teacher!!!!

On the other side of the door, Xieren was also reeling but his conclusion was quite different from his master. He felt no shame. He'd gotten what he wished for, what he'd longed for years.

Yet was he being rejected after all that had happened?

Xieren had been in a bit of a bad mood when he'd awoken and hoped he could resolve it with a kiss. Yet, his master had rejected him. Again...

Why didn't his master understand?

***

*Two nights before*

After a few more rounds, Xieren came for the first time that night, his roar muffled as he dug his teeth into Liang Fei's shoulder. He felt further satisfaction when he felt the sting of his master's nails scrape across his back.

Ah, Shizun was marking me too~  Xieren pulled away, the buzz of release slowly ebbing away as he stared down at his lover.

The elder was shaking in his arms, his breath labored and loud in the near-empty room. Liang Fei had been clinging to him for the last few rounds, his nails dragging over the junior back. It was probably his way of keeping himself grounded.

There was no need. Xieren would prefer if he let himself go just a bit more. Call out to him more.

"P-please, Xieren..." He panted, tears filling his eyes as he felt his body give up on him. No human could withstand all this.

"Please?" Xieren smiled, his fangs gleaming as he did so. He looked very much like a cat who caught himself a treat.

"Let... Let me rest." The elder pleaded, trying to catch his breath.

Xieren wanted more, his arousal having not even been diminished slightly after one round (on his end) but choosing to grant his master some mercy. He was mortal at the moment. There was no way he could keep up.

Perhaps after he cultivated a bit, he might be able to withstand another round or two.

"Did I keep my word?"

"Eh?" Liang Fei had been close to falling asleep yet Xieren's words brought him back. "What word?"

"It felt good, right? Having me deep inside you, holding you close while you squeeze the seed from me." He growled, feeling his master clench around him. "Ah, Shizun, you are amazing."

Liang Fei covered his face, not wanting to respond because... well, how could he? The evidence of their shared pleasure was splattered all over their stomachs. Even now, as tired as he was, his hole clenched as Xieren spoke.

Seeing his master red in the face and quiet, Xieren felt much happier than he could recall. His master, showing such a face, how could he not tease him?

"Don't you want more?" He chuckled when he saw the elder's eyes widen. He sat up, shaking his head.

"I'll go crazy."

A predatory smile of satisfaction spread across his lips. "Then go crazy for me. I'll still keep you by my side."

"Don't say things like that."

"Why?" He continued, kissing Liang Fei's cheek. "Does Shizun not like me claiming you?"

"You can't claim me." He stated, matter a factly. "I'm not yours."

Xieren froze, the mood chilling in seconds. "Oh?"

Liang Fei had no clue what or when things had shifted but he felt it when his student wrapped his arms around him tightly. 

"Eh?!"

Xieren lifted his master into his arms as he stood up, not bothering to pull out as he walked to a nearby doorway.

Why pull out when he wasn't planning on letting the man sleep after this?

As he walked, he saw that the three women he'd tossed into the corner hours prior had finally awoken, their eyes bulging out from shock. It was unclear when they had awoken but it was obvious they had seen something.

Oh, gods, the things they saw and heard were... Downright tragic!

The desperate pleas that went unanswered were what awoken them. Wet sounds and the broken moans of a beast mating with its mate drew them from their slumber, leaving them to remain silent as witnessed just a bit of this young man's performance.

And what a performance! As if laying claim to the older man's body, Xieren had been ruthless, leaving the poor elder too dazed to recall they weren't alone in the room.

Xieren obviously knew and had wanted the women to see. How dare these wenches presume they could outshine his master? That they could sway him with their bodies like he was some kind of moron.

That's why he made sure to make his interests as clear as possible as he laid his claim on Liang Fei.

Are you still here? His eyes demanded, glaring balefully down at them as they scrambled to their feet. They knew the man had sent them a message and now it was their time to leave. They knew now there was no use trying to seduce this man.

Ah, this man's lusts are crazy and his love is overwhelming! They thought, shivering as they recalled how rough he was with his bedmate. And somehow, they knew he'd been holding back some.

They felt a fleeting moment of pity for the poor elder being so ruthlessly loved by that man. A candle was lit for the man's wellbeing.

When the pests had finally departed, Xieren turned his gaze back to his master, who clung to him so sweetly. His breaths had evened out and he still stared into space.

Ah, he looked so precious like this, wrapped around me. He thought, tightening his arms around the man. Yet even now, his feelings weren't getting through.

He'd just have to show Shizun's body just how much of it could be claimed for his own.

***

Liang Fei was relieved to learn that cleaning the room had actually worked to help clear his head. Erasing the evidence made it just a bit easier to accept what had happened between Xieren and himself.

They had sex. Sordid and messy sex but nothing more than that.

Liang Fei was a modern man, so his view on sex was much more casual than anyone in this world. It was probably why he got along so well with sex workers, never judging them or looking down on them for their life choices.

Truly, the only reason he felt so out of sorts about this was that he felt guilty for doing all that to his student. He was supposed to be a role model yet had jerked off to his student and fallen into bed with him.

His only saving grace was that Xieren was an adult, so at least his conscience was clear. Still, it was a bit awkward now.

When Xieren had returned, Liang Fei had calmed himself down enough to talk to him without getting flustered. He did, however, make sure they stayed a mild distance from one another as they spoke, the subject they both knew had to be broached never being touched.

Every attempt was shot down by the elder, leaving Xieren in a foul mood as they left the bathhouse to get breakfast. He glared at his master, who had chosen to cover up his neck with a damn scarf!

Liang Fei was relieved that is was winter so he could wear a scarf to hide the marks. If others saw it, what would they think? They'd know what he'd done and how active they'd been.

Xieren felt greatly wronged seeing the scarf covering up his marks. Why hide them? It was obvious what had occurred already.

He wanted to snatch the offending fabric from his master and show off the marks. He wanted everyone to know who had made those noises last night and by whom it was made for. He wanted to wrap his arms around his master, pressing loving kisses to every mark, recalling the moment he'd put them there every time. Master was weak to his neck being touched so he knew the man would melt in his arms.

Yet he didn't dare, knowing his master would be mad at him if he did. He didn't like this tension between them. He'd given in to his master offer because he'd hoped things would change between them. That Shizun would see him, not as a student or a child but as a man.

Yet now, despite the fact that things had changed between them, Xieren felt no closer to that goal than before.

When they arrived at a restaurant, the mood remained stagnant. Liang Fei wasn't very good at initiating a conversation and Xieren didn't want to talk about anything else but their time together.

They were at a standoff.

This left the poor waiter standing beside them, sweating as the tension radiated off the two customers. He wondered briefly if he had stumbled onto some kinda gang-related deal.

The taller man looked scary and feral, one step from attacking the elder he was staring holes into. The elder remained calm yet stubborn. Something was going on.

"H-how may I serve you this morning?" He stammered, flinching when he saw the scary man turn his baleful stare toward him.

Ah, I'm innocent! I'm just trying to do my job~

"Don't be rude, Xieren." The elder chided, his even tone soothing the waiter's nerves as the scary man turned away with a huff. "Tell him what you want."

"What I want can't be provided by him." He grumbled, flashing what the young man could swear were fangs but surely not... Right?

"You're hungry, correct?" The elder asked, his eyes not leaving the menu. "You haven't eaten in a while so you must be."

"Oh, I'm hungry but not for food." He snapped back, leaning forward. "Unfortunately, someone refuses to discuss the matt-"

"Then I'll order for us." The elder interrupted, turning back to the confused young man. Hearing the man list off what he wanted, the waiter felt his heart stop.

"Customer, you wish for all this, now?" He couldn't help but ask. The order was large, as if feeding a dozen men instead of just two.

"Yes, please."

"A-as you wish." He nodded, not bothering to write down the order one at a time. This customer basically just wanted half the menu. "Anything to drink?

"Do you have anything for hangovers?" The elder asked, his brows slightly furrowed. His companion frowned, looking a bit concerned.

"Hangovers?" The waiter grimaced, not familiar with the word he'd used.

"No?" The elder sighed, feeling slightly disappointed. "Then I'll just have some water and something sweet, please."

"Right!" The young man wasted no more time and rushed off, feeling the scary man glare daggers into his back until he was out of sight.

He had no clue what that was but screw it! Those two were way too strange for him to deal with.

Meanwhile, Xieren and Liang Fei sat in silence.

The elder was thinking to himself about how hungry he was. Sure, Xieren had made sure to feed him throughout their time together but a meat bun here and there was no meal. Perhaps he'd ordered too much but he recalled that Xieren had a voracious appetite and would surely clear the table.

He worried his student hadn't eaten, choosing to take care of him instead. Despite his feelings on the matter, Liang Fei knew Xieren would keep him well fed yet ignore his own needs.

That was the kind of man he had taught Xieren to be.

At the same time, Xieren had been observing his master, his mood improving slightly after he'd listened to his master order. The food was varied but they were all things Xieren liked to eat, with only a couple that his master preferred.

Shizun was making sure he was well fed. Ah, he was too kind.

When the food did arrive, it was a train of waiters who redirected them to a larger table and laid out all the food. One after another, plate after plate was laid there to be viewed and consumed. Seeing it all there, Xieren recalled that he was starving.

As expected, his master served him food, probably out of habit rather than affection. He always seemed to be concerned about Xieren when they were together in that town. Anytime there was food around, his master would get it for him, saying how worried he was that a boy his age was so small.

Well, he certainly wasn't small anymore, was he?

Yet as he started to eat, he saw his master's eyes on him. Wait, no it was slightly more south. What was he looking at?

Xieren looked down, seeing only the fried shrimp he'd been about to eat. Curious, he lowered his hand, his master's eyes following the movement. He played around for a bit, moving the crustation around as his master watched it move about without a word.

The fact he didn't question it proved his master wasn't truly paying any attention at all.

"Shizun, do you want the shrimp?" He offered, holding out the shrimp. Finally, those lovely eyes landed on him, a dangerous look directed his way.

"Can I?" Liang Fei hadn't realized he'd been staring, so he was a bit shocked by the offer. But, if there was an offer, surely he could, right? How was he to know they both liked fried shrimp? He'd wanted it for himself but if Xieren wanted it, he was willing to give it up to him.

Yet now it was being offered so freely. How could he refuse?

Seeing Xieren absently nod, he leaned forward and bit the shrimp off Xieren's chopsticks, holding the rest in his own. He melted, missing the taste after so long.

Meanwhile, Xieren was trying not to push his master down again. They were eating and he was starving but how could he not be tempted when his master had done that. Not the eating off his own chopsticks though. No, it was the look he gave before.

Shizun had a pleading look.

It was rarely seen by disciples since Shizun held himself as firm and strict in front of them, but sometimes, it would be witnessed by him. It was subtle, as was all of Shizun's expressions. He would slightly tilt his head to the side, lower his chin, raise his gaze and make a small pout.

All of these were very slight, barely a movement at all but all together, it was devastating. The pout was what did it for Xieren. The slight pout brought so much of his focus on his lips, he'd forget everything around him and stare until he was out of sight.

And every time this happened, Xieren's teeth with itch.

When Xieren was a child, he'd always bite at things when his teeth throbs and itches. He'd been told it was called teething but it went on for years. The pressure of a bite was soothing to him, as if the thing in his grasp could not be taken and was safe with him.

He loved that feeling.

Seeing Shizun's pleading look brought back those strange foreign feelings. His mind would fade to white, and he'd just daydream about Shizun.

He imagined biting Shizun, his teeth pressed against his smooth, fragrant skin. Sometimes, his teeth would break skin, bringing with it a tinge of blood but most times, it was never that bad. Just a mark. That small mark of redness would be stark against Shizun's pale skin, dark and visible to all.

All of his imaginings would be centered on that bright mark.

He'd think about how many marks could be made. How close or far apart they could be. Their location. Would he let Shizun hide them under his robes or make them visible to all, so everyone would know he'd been claimed by someone?

By him.

But then, he'd think about how long they'd last. Cultivators were different from mortals, so the marks would fade fast. How long until the marks faded and his claim was erased by time. The thought always had him growling.

Would he have to keep marking Shizun?

Xieren didn't mind that though, his tongue running over this throbbing fangs.

How often would he have to, though? Once a week? Every other day? Every day? He'd much prefer that to anything but when to do it? Night or day?

Would he mark him in the morning, when Shizun was still drowsy from the night before, his skin flushed and warm from the morning sun? Xieren could slip his hands into his robes, bring to attention the sweet peaks hidden beneath as he nuzzled the man's throat. The nip wouldn't awaken him immediately though, it would just make him let out a soft but sweet cry. To hear him grumble and moan as he weakly tried to remain asleep under such a sensual attack. They'd probably (definitely) end up playing around again if pushed.

Should he mark him at night, while taking pleasure in Shizun's body? Have his teeth dig into the soft flesh as he took Shizun over and over again. Hold him close and pin him still with his teeth so he couldn't slip away. Despite his outward appearance, Shizun was a passionate lover, eager and rough. Shizun had marked him too that night, his nails raking Xieren's back as they made love throughout the night and day. Shizun also definitely liked being bitten, if his pleadings throughout the night were any indication. His cries for more still echoed in Xieren's ears.

His shaft throbbed beneath his robes, eager to make his fantasies real, to push Shizun down and take him for all the world to see so they'd stop daring to look at HIS Shizun. Better yet, take him back to their room so he could enjoy Shizun by himself. He definitely didn't want any filthy humans gazing at his perfect Shizun. Especially when he sank his teeth into him.

When this man cried out his name in ecstasy.

Clenching his fist, Xieren let out a breath, struggling to calm himself before he attacked Shizun again. If given the chance, he wouldn't let the man leave his bed until many nights had passed. There wouldn't be an inch of that body that wasn't marked by him if he had his way.

"Hah~" He sighed, staring hard at Shizun.

Damn it, my teeth really itch...

Liang Fei, looking up from his meal, frowned at the intense gaze Xieren. Those eyes were quite predatory and hungry. Unbidden, thoughts of 'that' night flooded his head and he looked away, struggling to control his own racing heart.

He's your student! He chanted in his mind, using it to beat the sense into his own wild emotions. Xieren was young and impressionable so don't think strange things about him. He's just Xieren!

Claiming his heart, he looked up and gave him a gentle expression. "Are you hungry? Would you like some of my pork?"

"I would." He said, his deep voice sending shivers throughout the elder man's body. Seeing the heated look, Liang Fei felt the marks on his skin burn, as if responding to Xieren.

Letting out a breath, Liang Fei shared some of his food, choosing not to look up at the younger man. Xieren had let the matter go, surely, so now it was on him to follow along. They could go on with their lives, never speaking of it again.

Things would go back to normal.

Back to normal.

Normal.

"Shizun, can we..." Xieren started before gathering his courage to take his master's hand. "could we continue to make love to one another?"

Or not.

"Eh?!" Liang Fei jumped, Xieren's grip on his hand the only thing keeping him seated. "W-w-why?!"

"We can't?" Xieren frowned, feeling for the first time unsure. Was he wrong about all this?

"I... I don't understand why you would wish to." Surely, Xieren would prefer a more... feminine partner. Especially not someone as old as he.

(AN: Again, LF is in his mid 30's while XR is about 26 or so. More than a 10-year difference.)

"Did Shizun not feel good then?" Xieren pulled his hand away, feeling legitimately concerned he'd done something wrong. He'd been told before he was good but if his master disliked it... "Was I not good enough?"

"Xieren is amazing, I felt very good!" The elder rushed to say, taking Xieren's hand back. Liang Fei, no matter what, tried to always be honest, so he told him the truth. It was embarrassing to think about but he couldn't deny that he enjoyed himself... albeit reluctantly.

It was very tiring and at times, he thought he might die but that didn't change the fact that sex with Xieren had felt better than.. really anything he could recall. It was strange, to have this beast of a man submit to him so willingly yet still pin him to the bed so often.

It was just embarrassing to think about all the words he'd said.

Xieren preened, wanting to get closer.

"Shizun~"

"But such things should be done between two people who love each other." He continued, attempting to pull his hand away but unable to. Seeing the pout on his student's face, Liang Fei felt his will bend just a bit.

Xieren was young. Having had his first time with a man must have been confusing to him. Perhaps it was just his way of testing to see where his interest lies but Liang Fei didn't want to confuse him further. 

They were close so of course, Xieren might have had strange ideas. Who didn't?

This had to be the reason he was going down this route. Of course!

With this in mind, the elder continued, feeling a bit more sure of himself. "Me being your first lover is one thing and I feel quite guilty for taking that from you but-"

At that moment, Xieren saw a chance and seized it.

"But it's because Shizun was my first that I asked." He said, his expression soft and pitiable. He knew his master's weakness and was ruthless in his exploitation of it. "This disciple isn't sure what he's feeling but it can't be ignored. Perhaps Shizun has claimed something of mine?"

Liang Fei was not the savviest person, not thinking much about things outside his interest. Sex was outside his interest in general, so all his knowledge on the subject was based on his slut of a friend, Xuetian.

'Never sleep with a virgin, Ah-Fei. It never ends well. They get super clingy and attached cause you were their first. Most assume its love but trust me, once they sleep with someone else, they get over it.'

When he'd heard it the first time, it sounded cold and distant but looking at Xieren, he couldn't help but think that the man might have been correct. Xieren was attached to him because he was his first. Why else would he want to be with some old man?

He had to take responsibility.

"I understand. I have taken your purity and caused you distress." He said, nodding solemnly. "My apologies. Then please allow me to make amends."

"Amends?"

Liang Fei nodded once more. "I will leave."

"No!" Xieren jumped to his feet, his expression near murderous. "You can't leave me again. You promised you wouldn't."

Liang Fei looked on, conflicted. He had promised, hadn't he? He couldn't just leave but...

"If I remain by your side, you will grow more confused." He sighed, his tone distant as if he were speaking to a child.

Xieren was not pleased.

"I'm not confused!" He snapped, slamming his hand onto the table. "I want to be with you, Shizun!"

Liang Fei moved away from the table, suddenly thankful they were moved to a more private area. It wouldn't do if others heard all this and misunderstood. He didn't understand why Xieren was being like this.

"Why? Surely someone as handsome, strong and talented as yourself would seek better company." He reasoned. "As your master, I'm fine with staying by your side but I don't want you to fall victim to such whims."

"Shizun!"

"What would others say if they learned of such a thing? The great lord Xieren with some nameless person?" He stated, trying to convince his student to change his mind about this. He was willing to give a lot to Xieren, as he felt guilty for leaving him behind but this was...

"Ah, it'd be such a waste for you to be stuck with this old man. You would only be disappointed being stuck with me." He sighed, imagining all the pretty ladies Xieren would later have. What would he think when he thought back to this moment. Surely he'd be regretful.

All of Liang Fei's previous girlfriends had felt so.

Every time they got to know him, they felt disappointed and dumped him. How could he argue though? He wasn't charming or fun like Xuetian. Hell, he wasn't even very consistent. He'd tried to be but his loyalty was always split between them and his family. His lovers were always left wanting.

He didn't want Xieren to be disappointed in him, to grow weary of him and leave him. He was all he had at the moment. He needed Xieren, as he had nothing else to live for at the moment. 

He wasn't yet strong enough to live for himself.

Xieren looked on, horrified by his master's words. Did he truly think he was unworthy of being loved? This kind and selfless man who treated even the evilest men in the country as a precious person, thought Xieren couldn't love him?

He wished he had told him his feelings before. Perhaps if he'd confessed, his master would... no, his master was an idiot. Shizun was stubborn and wasn't the type to be convinced by words if he thought differently.

Even if he bared his heart to the man now, he was sure his master would spin in such a way to make Xieren sound immature. To him, Xieren was too young and inexperienced to know what love was.

Despite everything, Shizun still saw him as 'just another student.'

But he refused to let that be. If he wouldn't trust his word, he'd have to show his feelings through action. But first...

"Shizun, you made a promise to me before." He said, slamming back down into his seat. Liang Fei's dour thoughts were shoved away, flinching at the sound.

"I did?"

"Yes, a long time ago." He stated, smiling sweetly. "Will you fulfill it for me before you leave?"

Not that he'd let the man leave him.

Liang Fei relaxed, happy Xieren was finally being understanding. "Of course, anything."

"Do you swear you will do it, no matter what it is?"

"I swore to dedicate myself to you, Xieren." He replied, recalling his previous words. "If you wish me to dedicate myself to this promise instead, that's fine."

Though, he would be sad to leave afterward. It was for the best though. The sooner he left, the better off Xieren would be. He'd get married and have children with a lovely woman.

Then perhaps Liang Fei could return and watch over them from afar. He was good at taking care of others after all.

This fantasy playing out in his head, Liang Fei had no means of defense when Xieren pulled his hand close. A gentle kiss placed on the back of his hand was contrasted with the tight grip of Xieren grasp.

"Then teach me how to treat my wife, like you said you would, Master." He proclaimed, staring up at him with predatory eyes. "Be my lover and show me the way to be a good husband."

***

The rest of the meal was a blur. Liang Fei recalled eating but also remembered being fed by Xieren. It was... oh, god it was embarrassing.

He'd said he'd teach the man how to treat his wife? It definitely sounded familiar but to do so from the position of his temporary lover was just crazy. Still, he had made the promise and he had agreed to Xieren's deal so...

This left the elder man helpless as he was dragged down the street, holding hands with his student. Said student was beaming, happily intertwining their fingers and pressing a kiss to them.

"Does Shizun dislike this?"

"I don't" He grumbled, though his words were sincere. He never disliked hand-holding. If anything, he liked it a lot. It's just that doing so with someone else was a new thing and he felt nervous.

"Lovers hold hands, right?"

"They do."

"So we can as well, right?"

"I... suppose so." The elder confirmed, not wanting to admit he liked holding hands like this. It might make Xieren come to some strange conclusion about him.

While Xieren was unable to read his master's thoughts most of the time, the one thing he could sense was the subdued happiness in his master's eyes when he'd first suggested hand-holding. He wanted to start with something easy. Seeing how calmly his master took hold of his hand, Xieren came to the conclusion his master was fond of the practice.

Yet having the man confirm it with his own words was better than anything.

"Shizun!"

Xieren wrapped his arms around Liang Fei, shocking the older man. He hadn't expected to be embraced but couldn't say he disliked it. Xieren was warm and gave him a sense of security. Pressed back to chest, it was comforting to have this man hug him as he had before.

Back when they were purely Master and Disciple.

Except...

"Xieren, may I ask what you are doing?" Liang Fei forced out, his true embarrassment only evident in the slight flush to his cheeks. There was currently something hard and throbbing pressing into his back. How could he come to any other conclusion other than that he was being desired in that way?

"I'm just hugging you." He replied, shamelessly pressing his erection against Liang Fei rear. Even through all the layers of fabric, Liang Fei could feel the outline of his shaft nestled snugly between them. The hard shaft throbbed against him and Liang Fei couldn't help but shiver.

"No, you are not." He countered, feeling ashamed at his own reaction to the display. He shouldn't be getting aroused like this. "Please refrain from doing such things in public."

"I can't touch Shizun?" Xieren whined, pouting as he pressed his cheek to his masters. Their hands remained intertwined

"You can but not in such a way in front of others." He stated, his eyes darting about the area. Xieren's back was to the street but he was sure there were others who could see them.

"I won't!" The younger man proclaimed, turning his lovers face toward him. "Shizun's cute face should only be shown to me."

Eh? What cute face? Don't go calling an old man cute! Despite the words in his heart, Liang Fei just huffed.

"I don't understand what you mean but please be more discreet."

Xieren grinned. "So I can continue?"

"...If you must." He said, shivering when Xieren's hands squeezed his chest. He wasn't sure what he sought though. his chest was flat. There were no breast to fondle yet fondle he did.

And Liang Fei enjoyed every second of it.

***

Liang Fei was tossed onto the bed, bouncing a bit before his partner joined him. After some chastising over being fondled in the middle of the street, Xieren insisted they do a bit of 'exercise' since they ate so much.

"I should have known better than to expect anything else from a young man like yourself." The elder huffed.

"Are you rejecting me?"

"No, I'm fine with it." He grumbled, not wanting to admit he was aroused as well. He thought he'd never be able to get hard again after their time together but apparently his body was determined to try and keep up with his student.

His body was foolish and arrogant.

Then again, his cultivation had gone up on its own so perhaps that was the reason. He hadn't had time to think it over, his mind stuck on the subjects 'sex', 'Xieren' and 'what the fuck was I thinking!?'.

How had his level risen so much in so little time?

Xieren had been removing his master's clothes, unveiling all the marks he'd left with satisfaction. He had expected some protest yet looking up, he saw a familiar expression.

Here he was, about to ravish his master until his eyes did cartwheels yet the man was daydreaming again. Not even sex could keep the man's attention.

"Shizun?"

"Mn." A distracted mummer. As he thought, the man's mind was elsewhere.

He couldn't let that happen.

Having stripped the man of most of his clothes, Xieren had a clear path to his target. With ease, he revealed his master's erection and grasped it, the tip releasing clear precum that tempted Xieren to no end. 

Later, he promised himself.

"Ahh!?" Liang Fei gasped, his eyes darting to Xieren who smiled back him.

"Ah, you're back. Look what I found." He teased, squeezing the hard shaft in his hands. The elder's legs curled up, pulling Xieren closer. "Shizun, you're hard as well."

"Must you narrate everything?" He snapped, shaking as he resisted the urge to move. Xieren's hand was stroking his shaft so slowly, it was driving him crazy.

"I'm sorry." Xieren chuckled, amused by his master's obvious impatience. He wondered how long he could tease the man before he snapped. "I just... never thought I'd see such a thing."

Xieren still couldn't believe he'd convinced this stubborn man to be his lover. Sure, it was technically only temporary but Xieren was still overjoyed that he could freely touch his beloved master like this.

Meanwhile, Liang Fei was shaking with anticipation.

"Is it not your own fault I'm like this?" The elder snapped, feeling embarrassed that he was letting such a thing happen. But he couldn't resist. It had been so long since he'd had someone else touch him like this.

"Shizun... is like this because of me?" He had suspected this but to hear it from the man himself was shocking.

"Who else but you dare touch me like this?"

Xieren tried to keep himself from screaming out into the air with joy at the confession. His master desired him. Even without alcohol or having his neck touched, his master got aroused by him.

This was the best day ever~

"Am I to take this to mean you are okay with this?" He pressed, looming over his master as they stared into each other's eyes. "You wouldn't let anyone else do this, would you?"

He didn't mean to growl at his master but the thought of his beloved being touched by another was enough to have his claws emerged, tearing into the mattress beneath them.

Yet Liang Fei didn't notice this at all, his mind reeling from Xieren's question. Would he let someone else have sex with him like this? And let them know his weakness?! What nonsense! It was already embarrassing enough as it was now.

"Never!" He barked, rolling Xieren underneath him. The junior blinked, having not expected the role reversal but Liang Fei continued. "I'm only letting you do so because you are Xieren. You want me to teach you and act as your lover until you fall in love so I don't plan on cheating on you."

A moment of silence fell between the two before Xieren grinned once more.

"I see."  He chuckled, pulling his master close. "Then if Shizun is like this because of me, allow me to take responsibility."

"Responsi- Mnf!" The elder's words were muffled by Xieren's lips, his tongue taking away all his protests.

The afternoon was spent establishing their relationship. While Xieren wanted to take control, Liang Fei refused to fall prey to the man's charms. To neither man's dismay, Liang Fei took the lead, riding his student well and hard until the sun started to set.

He could only thank his improved cultivation that he'd managed to get through two of Xieren's orgasms before collapsing onto the man's chest. Still, he had already climaxed quite a few times in between each one.

Why did he say yes to being the lover of a demon? Surely, this was what hell was like. Tempting and delicious throughout yet exhausting and painful at the end.

Worse yet, Xieren was still hard, his shaft having not reduced in the least. When his hips pressed deeper into the elder's hole, Liang Fei couldn't keep quiet.

"I already came already." He complained, glaring a down at the smirking man beneath him.

"Yes, you did. You were quite vocal."

This brat! How dare he tease his master like this? How could he not be vocal when his hole was ravaged so fiercely? How could he keep quiet when his sweet spot was struck?

Promising to make him feel good was one thing but you can't go around trying to kill your master like this~

But he couldn't get mad or else he might misunderstand something. Liang Fei was his teacher so he had to act the part. The fact that said teacher was sitting on his student's dick just then slipped his mind as he tried to come up with a good excuse to go to sleep.

"Aren't... Aren't you tired yet?" He tried, stroking the younger man's cheek affectionately. The fact Xieren let him do so was a testament to how much he trusted his master. Surely, he'd have mercy on the man.

"No, I could go again." He said, dashing away those hopes. He rolled the elder under him, smiling as he pressed a kiss to his cheek. "Perhaps a few more times even."

"A few times?!"

"Don't underestimate my stamina, Shizun. I have boundless energy." Especially when it came to his master.

Thinking back, Liang Fei recalled how as a child, Xieren was the only one of his students to consistently keep up with his exercises. Where most were struggling to finish their rounds, Xieren was buzzing past them.

At the time, Liang was impressed and praised his endurance and persistence. The child could go on for hours.

Presently, Liang Fei felt his heart drop. Even without the aphrodisiacs, his Xieren was relentless!

Seeing his master's thoughts broadcasted on his face, Xieren couldn't help but lean down to kiss him. The older man flushed red and Xierens chest felt full of fluff.

Shizun was too cute.

*****

AN: So I got the cultivation info from a mobile game I've been playing called Immortal Taoists. It's fairly simple. In the game, you have to cultivate the body and soul simultaneously so I used that here.

The soul part goes like this:

Qi Gathering - Foundation - Gold Core - Soul Wandering - Nascent Soul – Ensoulment - Nihility - Ascension - Half Immortal - Profound Immortal - Golden Immortal - Immortal Venerable - Immortal King - Immortal Emperor

and the body part goes like this:

Mortal flesh - Soul Forming - Mind Scattering - Sarira - Bone-refining – Nirvana - Golden body - Godly Force - Heavenly being - Heavenly god - Heavenly buddha - Godly Buddha

SLF was at Nascent Soul and Saira. Current Xieren is close to Ascension. But don't worry, this won't come up again. I just felt like sharing the game for anyone curious or wanting to know where to look up info like this for their cultivation stories.