AN: I somewhat regret my decision to try and tell two romances in one story. Now I'm forced to find a good spot to fit Xinyi and Yao Da's relationship in between my main two.

By the way, some Yuri is up ahead so those not into that... Well, here's your warning.

*****

"Is this the place?" Xinyi asked, staring up at the building in front of them. She and Uncle had stayed at a nice inn before but the place they stood before now made that inn pale in comparison. It was simply luxurious. "Are you sure?"

"Of course, cub." Yao Da assured, linking their arms as she pulled her forward. "We just spent the last few days trekking through a forest. We deserve a bit of pampering."

The time they spent together was valuable, having grown close since their first meeting. Toward anyone else, Yao Da would have never chosen to show her naked back. Yet Xinyi was a special case.

This silly girl, while just a bit devious, was someone Yao Da felt she could be relaxed around. As such, she felt a desire to pamper her and chose the nicest place she could find to do so.

Realistically, she should be reporting to her master now that they had returned. She could sense her master was still in the city and could easily present Xinyi to him. Once that was done, her mission would be complete and things would go back to normal. But she didn't want that just yet. 

Just a little longer. She wished in her heart as she and Xinyi requested a private bath. The desire to relax outshone any desire to follow orders.

Yet Yao Da came to regret her decision.

While she and Xinyi had spent a lot of time together, she had never bathed with the woman and now found herself confronted by this. They were both naked and alone. While this was normally nothing strange, the demoness couldn't help but stare.

"Is there something wrong?" The human asked, feeling a bit self-conscious. She was still somewhat covered up yet she was being stared at so hard.

Yao Da blankly nodded, rushing past Xinyi. She wasn't sure why the sight of the human's naked back bothered her so much. She had seen hundreds of females naked so why was Xinyi different?

These questions and more circled the demoness' mind as she sat down to clean herself off. Xinyi, figuring the matter had been settled, sat next to her to follow suit.

 The two continued this for a while, their eyes drifting toward the other as silence fell. Neither knew why they felt so awkward all of a sudden. They shouldn't. They had already grown so close over the last few days so why was being naked their tipping point?

The silence continued as both women snuck glances at one another.

Xinyi couldn't help but admire Yao Da's beauty. She was lovely to be sure but her eyes were on her body, specifically how toned her body was. There was muscle under those soft curves. She had the beauty of a warrior, honed from years of hard work and discipline.

How attractive was that!?

Yao Da, on the other side, was marveling at how soft Xinyi looked in comparison. Where she came from, all women were fit to the point there was little to no softness. Before this had never occurred to her but seeing Xinyi, she began to see why men preferred that type. She could see the appeal in sinking her fingers into those soft curves.

Both women looked up at the same time, catching each others gaze. They quickly turned away, neither wanting to say why they were staring nor ask why the other was doing so. It was best not to say anything.

Yet Yao Da's ear twitched, picking up a curious sound from behind her. Taking a peek, she saw the younger woman twisting her body around, trying to wash her back. The sight would have been cute if not for the sounds she was making.

Must her little cub moan like that for something so minor? The demoness sighed, turning and snatching the washcloth from the human's hands.

"Shall I help you?" She offered, voicing her words before she lost her will.

Xinyi blinked. "What?"

"Your back." She gestured in her vague direction. Her eyes kept darting around, landing on certain parts more often than not. "Let me help you wash it."

"R-right." Xinyi spun around, flushed as she offered her back to the woman. Her heart was racing, somewhat excited for reasons she couldn't place. 

The first touch wasn't terrible. The cloth was warm and had Xinyi not been so aware of Yao Da as a woman, perhaps she wouldn't have made a sound.

But she was and she did.

"Eep!" 

"S-sorry!" Yao Da pulled away, reacting much more than she'd like. "Was that too rough?"

"N-no, it's not that." The younger woman stammered, her flushed body shivering. "Your nails were a bit-"

"I'm sorry!"

"No no, it's not-" She tried but stopped herself before turning. With a heavy breath, she moved her hair out of the way to make things easier. "I... I didn't dislike it."

If she was as blunt as Liang Fei, she might have told her that she had really liked it. She had been expecting the warmth and the wetness but the added sting of the demoness' claws was exciting in ways the pure girl couldn't place.

Her untouched valley burned at the feeling, yearning for something more. Xinyi could barely keep from squirming as Yao Da continued, letting herself release little mewls every time she felt the subtle scrape of nails on her back.

Perhaps it was instinct but Yao Da quickly realized what Xinyi liked, using both hands to clean her body. Xinyi openly moaned, pressing back against Yao Da as her hands traveled to her chest.

When those hands caressed her stomach, Xinyi couldn't help but cry out. "That feels..."

"Do you dislike it?"

"No." Xinyi shook her head, grabbing Yao Da's wrist and directing it to her chest. She wanted to be touched more but wasn't sure where she needed it most. Her breast felt heavy and tingly.

Maybe if Yao Da touched them, they'd feel better?

"That- Ah!" The junior cried out, squirming when those hands held her breast like they were fruits to be tested. Would she be bitten into? She felt like she might like that.

Beside Xinyi, Yao Da was panting, her mind drifting elsewhere. She was touching Xinyi, playing with her breast like they were hers to toy with.

In her heart, she felt something confirm her thoughts, saying these beautiful breasts were hers to toy with. That the girl in her arms could be, would be, hers if she just went a bit further. It was fine, it assured her.

Xinyi was very clear on what she was okay with so-

No!

Yao Da's fingers had only just brushed the hardened tip of the younger woman's peak when she pulled away, nearly causing her to fall back. Xinyi, despite not being a warrior, was still a cultivator and caught herself before she could hurt herself.

"What wa-"

"W-we should go!" Yao Da interrupted, clenching her hands as she turned away. If she kept looking, she was sure she'd do more.

This left Xinyi confused as she stared up at the demoness from the floor. Why had they stopped?

"Yao Da?"

"Now!" She snapped, turning on her heel, heading for the door. With a speed that exemplified a demons prowess, Yao Da was half-dressed by the time Xinyi made it to the locker.

"A-alright." Xinyi called out, trying to keep up with Yao Da as they quickly got dressed. She was happy the demoness waited for her outside the door but why won't she look at her? Had she done something wrong?

The two walked in silence, the air tense.

Yao Da was freaking out. What had just happened? No, what was about to happen? She had bathed with women before, helping them wash their back and joking around yet that wasn't what happened just then.

She had never taken notice of how soft a woman's skin was. How her claws felt grazing her skin, eliciting shivers from the younger woman. How pleasant a fragrance someone could have when their body was warm.

She had wanted to touch her more. She had wanted to wrap her fingers around her breasts and tease the unseen peaks that slipped through. She had wanted to hear more moans, knowing she was the source of them.

She wanted to take Xinyi apart over and over again.

That wasn't normal!

(AN: Yao Da going through a gay panic)

While the demoness struggled to settle her newly discovered desires, Xinyi followed silently, going through her own misgivings.

She hadn't expected to be touched like that, especially by another woman. She usually hated people touching her like that, knowing they wished to press for more. Yet, Yao Da's touch didn't feel bad or even scary.

It truly did feel good, her body relaxing in her embrace. She wasn't sure what she would have done had the demoness not put a stop to it.

Her hand had been going to a private place but what lied beyond that was a mystery to both women. Neither had heard of anything like this before. Yao Da knew of men who enjoyed each other's company but never two women. Xinyi, meanwhile, only had an understanding of male-female unions. While she knew of same-sex attractions, she had no idea what happened between them.

It might be better to ask A-Ren/master about this later. They both thought at that moment. Both were sure that that demon had some interests like that.

That certain demon scratched the back of his neck, sensing that someone was talking about him.

Meanwhile, the two women continued on, passing by a pair of men who came to a sudden halt behind them.

"No way!" One of them muttered, turning to stare back at them. The guy rushed forward, grabbing Xinyi's arm. "Is that... Are you?"

The guy stared her down, confusing Xinyi as Yao Da glared at the offending hand. What was this thing, daring to touch her precious Xinyi. If she wasn't allowed to touch, how could someone else? 

Yet Xinyi held out a hand, stilling the demoness as she stared back at the man.

"Do I know you?"

"You're Xinyi, right?" The man asked, his eyes tracing over her face. Xinyi frowned, her expression slowly relaxing as recognition flashed through her eyes,

"Xuejie?"

"A-Yi!" A grin exploded upon the man's face, radiating a familiar energy that had Xinyi mirroring his look. 

Xinyi cried, rushing into the man's open arms. Their embrace was heartfelt, with Xuejie lifting her into his arms and spinning them both. Anyone seeing such a sight would immediately see how close the two were.

Yet there were two people who fumed at the intimacy.

Xuejie had set the smaller woman down, about to shoot off a dozen questions on how his sworn sister had been yet was shocked when he sensed Yao Da rushing at him. With practiced vigilance, he prepared for her strike, knowing she wouldn't stop for a while.

Yet none came.

Opening his eyes, he was shocked to see his companion, Xing He, holding onto the demoness' raised leg. A second later and her heel would have slammed into his chest like it usually did.

Yao Da's eyes narrowed, both surprised and annoyed her strike was blocked. Had she somehow gotten weaker? "Who are-"

"He-ge!" Xuejie interjected, attempting to embrace Xing He but finding himself rebuffed.

"Lord Xing He?" She now recognized the man. He was one of master's high ranking officials. In other words, one of her superiors. "I thought you were at the castle."

"I could say the same for you." He countered, releasing her leg. The subtle squeeze to her ankle was a warning. Whether it was warning against attacking Xuejie or her questioning him, she couldn't say.

But Xinyi definitely made her objections known.

"Yao Da, what are you doing, attacking A-jie?!" She snapped, standing between the two. The demoness wilted a bit, looking aggrieved.

"He was touching you all over!" She argued, glowering at Xuejie. "You shouldn't let this pervert be so free with you."

"A-jie is practically my brother. He wouldn't do anything untoward to me." She stated, rolling her eyes. The thought of Xuejie flirting with her was... ugh, she couldn't even imagine it without shuddering with disgust.

Xuejie nodded, feeling confident now that he had someone on his side now.

"Saying things like that is quite hurtful." He called out, clinging shamelessly to his sister. She would surely protect him. "That's like saying I'd flirt with anyone female."

"Isn't that exactly what you do?" Xing He argued, dragging the troublesome man away. He was like a damn puppy, running off to cling to anyone who was somewhat nice to him.

"Well, yeah, kind of." He admitted with a shrug. He was a man after all. But even he had his limits. "But never with A-Yi! Bro would kill me, bring me back and kill me again if I tried."

"Ah, right." Xinyi stepped up, glaring at Xuejie balefully. "I have quite a few words to say to you, A-jie! How could you just leave me behind like that!? Do you know how worried I was?"

Again, another seasoned and powerful cultivator wilted under her gaze, kneeling down as she chewed him out.

"R-right, sorry. Forgive me, okay?" He tried, tugging on her sleeve coquettishly. "It couldn't be helped."

"Oh?"

Xuejie took this chance, wanting Xinyi to understand and forgive him. Being hated by this girl would be just too sad.

"Bro needed me and I couldn't let him struggle alone."

"But you could leave me?"

"About that..." Xuejie went into his explanation, his circumstances dramatized to the highest degree in order garner sympathy from Xinyi. 

It didn't work and he was subsequently scolded until his ears burned and his will was broken. Xinyi showed no mercy.

Yao Da looked on, feeling pride for Xinyi as she ripped into Xuejie. Her dislike toward the man had grown with each excuse.

"Look at him, making my cub sad yet acting all innocent." She snorted, watching the two talk like a parent scolding their child. "Watch how I make him regret that mistake."

Xing He was equally annoyed, though it was mostly just from a dozen other problems caused by Xuejie than any one thing. The man was a magnet for trouble. Now he had to deal with these two women on top of everything.

Yet he was curious about Yao Da. She wasn't what he'd expected after hearing the rumors about her.

"I didn't think I'd see the day that the infamous human-hating Lady Yao Da defend a human." He noted, his statement just casually tossed out. He didn't really expect an answer.

Yet Yao Da wasn't one to stay silent when pressed. Her glare shifted to Xing He, showing off her fangs.

"Don't push me, human." She growled. "Otherwise, I might start to question why you are here as well."

"Xuejie and I are on a mission. He's my bodyguard." That was partially the truth. Which parts were true were going to remain known only to him.

The demoness, however, wasn't a fool. She wasn't just anyone. Their king didn't choose just anyone to stand by his side.

"Yet I know for a fact that you are leagues stronger than him." She pointed out, crossing her arms. "Moreover, how many charges protect their bodyguard?"

"When you have been assigned an idiot, you learn to take certain liberties."

"Hm." Yao Da couldn't help but think about Xinyi. She might not be an idiot but her silly antics had gotten under her skin. Made her do things she normally wouldn't.

As if sensing an opening, Xuejie interrupted Xinyi's rant to raise his hand. "Oh, speaking of Bro, have you seen him?" He asked, gesturing to the other man. "Me and He-ge have been looking for him. I heard he was coming by here."

"Master is in town. He's not that far from here, actually." Yao Da replied, much to Xinyi's surprise.

"He is? Why didn't you mention it to me before?"

Because I wanted to spend more time with you. The demoness said in her heart. She knew as soon as the two were reunited, the time they could spend together would decrease. Yao Da wasn't willing to let the matter slip but Xing He was technically her superior and she was obligated to assist him.

Outloud, she said. "I didn't think master was going to leave town anytime soon and felt no rush."

If master was still here after so many days, he must have found something to occupy his time. Yet Xinyi looked at her companion, a bit hurt. Xieren, the brother she hadn't seen in over a decade was so close yet Yao Da kept it from her.

"Still, I thought we agreed you'd take me to him."

"And I will." She rushed to cajole the human. "I just-"

"If you know where Bro is, do you mind showing us the way?" Xuejie interjected, frowning at the strange atmosphere between the two women. He hadn't expected them to be this close. They were supposed to be rivals, both vying for Xieren's affections yet it felt like they were a bickering couple.

But that couldn't be right. Maybe it was just his own imagination.

Xing He felt the same, backing up Xuejie as he continued. "I'd rather get going quickly if you don't mind."

Yao Da frowned. "Quickly? Has something occurred?"

Thinking about it, there was no reason Xuejie and Xing He should be here. While he was an idiot, Xuejie was their master's most trusted guard and was usually left in charge of the castle whenever their master was away. Xing He was the face of their kingdom, acting as the liaison between the demons and their human territories.

The fact they were both here looking for their king, meant something must have happened back in the darklands. Something they couldn't leave to a messager.

***

For Liang Fei, a sense of peace had fallen upon him. Despite the change in their relationship, the next few days with Xieren were surprisingly normal.

While the elder wasn't an expert on romance, he did know enough to show his student/lover what to and not do.

One such thing was: No pressing the elder against a wall, kissing the breath from him. While it was somewhat enjoyable, the frequency in which it happened as well as the abruptness of the action was not good for the man's heart.

Outside that, they got along well. Hand holding and shared meals were a frequent thing. There were times where Liang Fei was so comfortable with Xieren, he forgot they were even dating.

No, he corrected himself. They weren't dating. It was just a hands-on lesson on courting. It would be inappropriate to think anything else.

As for Xieren, well... he showed great enthusiasm in learning all of his master's likes and dislikes when it came to sex.

He truly showed himself off as the protagonist of a stallion novel

The worst part about it was that he felt really good doing all that with Xieren. It was mortifying to think about but he couldn't lie and say he didn't enjoy himself. Despite his impatience that night, his student had been nothing but gentle, making it so he wasn't in pain from beginning to end.

Thinking it over, had it been up to him, Liang Fei would have probably pushed things too far in his desire for gratification. To think, Liang Fei was capable of such things was a surprise to not only Xieren but to the man himself.

As was evident from his taste in music, Liang Fei was an inwardly passionate man. His love for things like metal and cute things blazes hotter than the flames of hell yet it is all buried under layers of cold indifference. Whether unconsciously or not, Liang Fei suppressed his passions deep into his heart, almost succeeding in burying it all.

It was because of this suppression that his love life was so mediocre. Dates were bland, sex was as vanilla as can be and his heart rarely raced for anything that wasn't rock music. Yet this suppression, as well as his recent stress over a loss of control, had created a new passion within the man.

The desire to control his lover.

Now, he wasn't a weirdo who liked ball gags and whips but he did find the act of control and making others beg to be quite appealing. Xieren was a powerful and handsome man, so having him look up at his elder with such lustful but submissive eyes, how could anyone resist such a sight?

The best way to classify such a person could only be a power bottom.

But in the light of day, this man could only curl up under a blanket and wish for something to swallow him whole so he wouldn't have to face the realities of his actions.

That's where the elder found himself now, submerged in a bath as memories of their previous night echoed in his mind. He wasn't sure why but his student was very keen on pressing him down as often as possible.

It was tiring but Liang Fei allowed it for two reasons. One was that as a man who'd remained pure for five years, his own desires were satisfied quite well with Xieren. It might feel like he was going to die sometimes but he wasn't one to say no to pleasure in this life.

The second reason being the curious state of his body.

After that first night together, Liang Fei had noticed how much stronger his body got. Not only did he get tired less, but he could last longer with Xieren. It was a pleasant surprise for them both but the elder was keen on discovering why that was.

So he chose to slip out of bed early in the morning to have some time to himself. Xieren was very clingy and liked to hug and cuddle after sex. Liang Fei really didn't dislike it but it was very hard to think with certain parts rubbing against him.

Looking over his status, he noticed he had risen quite a bit, yet still didn't understand why. He should still be a regular mortal yet somehow, within a few days, he'd cultivated quite a bit.

But how? All he'd done for the last few days was eat, sleep, and do that with Xieren. What kind of unfair god would allow him to cultivate while doing literally nothing?

Perhaps Xieren might know but the elder had chosen to sneak away for the sole purpose of being alone. Could he even get an answer from the man? He seemed more interested in gratifying himself with the elder than anything else.

Perhaps this was one of the things that Liang Fei would be learning from Xieren. That virgins were very clingy and lustful.

As if hearing the elder's thoughts, the demon in question burst into the room, his heterochromatic eyes finding Liang Fei in seconds. The dark expression of his face faded, a smile appearing in its place.

He was really getting tired of waking up alone every morning. What was the point of his demonic libido if he couldn't get his partner to stay in bed. Perhaps he was going too easy on the man just because he was mortal.

That would change tonight.

Liang Fei shivered, feeling endangered for some reason. Not sure why though. Perhaps it was his imagination?

"Good morning, Xieren." He said, despite knowing it was well into the afternoon. Perhaps it was some kind of divine retribution but Xieren was a surprisingly sound sleeper. Nothing would wake him up when he was truly tired, which meant that when he inevitably overslept, Liang Fei was free to do as he pleased.

Liang Fei took advantage of that free time whenever he could, eager to walk around freely without his beloved student glaring hatefully at everyone who came close to them.

"It would have been a great morning had Shizun been there when I woke up." He grumbled, feeling wronged. "Perhaps I didn't try hard enough last night if you were capable of leaving our bed."

Didn't try hard enough?! Any harder and this poor old man would have been bedridden. This shameless child was too much!

Despite the objections in his heart, Liang Fei said nothing, his expression static save for a mild eye twitch.

"If you found me, there is no need to be concerned. I promised I wouldn't leave until I fulfill my promise."

Liang Fei had quickly realized that Xieren was very clingy outside of their bed sports, usually convinced that the elder would leave him. Even when exhausted and dead to the world, the junior would hold onto Liang Fei, as if to assure himself he was still there.

It would appear his death had affected the man in more ways than one. His guilt over that was partly why he didn't bother fighting the man over most things. His protests never made it past his lips when he saw those eyes staring up at him, pleading for him to stay by his side.

How could he say no to that?

"I'd prefer to wake up with my lover in my arms." Xieren replied, walking in. He quickly stripped, pouting inwardly as the elder turned his gaze away.

Ah, don't look away. He huffed, wanting to show himself off. Look at the body whose heart belongs to you.

"Shizun doesn't want to look at me?" He teased, sitting down to wash himself. His master sat in the bath, mere inches away with his back turned.

"Have I not seen you already?" Liang Fei retorted, resisting the desire to look. He'd seen quite enough for now.

For now?! Damn his dirty mind. The elder sunk deeper into the pool, hoping to drown his impure thoughts away.

With his back turned, Xieren couldn't read his master, much to his disappointment. He felt like he was missing out on something great. Still, he could at least tease the man just a bit.

"Perhaps so but we were a bit preoccupied, weren't we?" He growled, watching his master's ear burn red. Making Shizun blush was becoming his favorite pass time. Now if only the man would turn around, it'd be even better.

"Regardless, I've seen you before." The elder snapped, quickly regaining his composure despite the slight flush. He felt like he was being messed with and it was annoying. "There's nothing more left to see."

What more was there to see? They had been intimate quite a few times and Xieren wasn't shy about showing himself off like a preening peacock. As to why, Liang Fei had no clue. It's not like there was any doubt about how good looking he was.

Xieren wasn't the protagonist for nothing. How could he not notice how handsome he was. It's just that before this, they were just teacher and student. Now, after all that, it would be hard to act normal when they were both naked.

I swear, if this was some kind of ego trip, I will put him over my knee. He promised himself with a huff. He didn't care how old or powerful this man was. This elder refused to be teased by someone so much younger than himself.

Xieren shivered, feeling like he was close to danger.

Ah, perhaps I had pushed Shizun too much. He thought, minimizing himself. Gone was the confident and whimsical lover, replaced by the obedient yet loving student.

"I'll be good" He mumbled, unsure why he felt the need to acquiesce but instinctively doing so.

His decision proved correct as the elder relaxed his shoulders, his aura a bit calmer. Any longer and his student truly would have been punished in the most 'unpleasant' of way.

(AN: Yes, I know what I'm implying and yes, Xieren is that kind of guy. Anything for his master.)

The air between them cooled, feeling less awkward than before. So much so, the younger of the two chose to break their silence to request his master to help wash his back.

"I was about to come out anyway." Liang Fei said, stepping from the water to join his student/lover. He didn't mind helping him. He enjoyed his time with Xieren.

It's just the teasing he couldn't handle.

As long as Xieren kept his hands to himself, the elder was fine with being caught like this. Washing another man's back was completely normal and wouldn't raise any eyebrows. Being caught with a man's dick in your ass in an open to the public bath was not something one could laugh off.

Liang Fei's skin was not that thick.

After extracting a promise from the junior, the two sat with Liang Fei facing Xieren from behind. It was a unique experience, as the elder had always been in front of Xieren regardless of the circumstances. It was his first time seeing his back.

When dry, Xieren's hair had a blue-black sheen to it, resembling a night sky. Wet, it was deep ebony, like a black hole. When running his fingers through the locks, the elder briefly worried he'd lose his fingers as they were swallowed up by the darkness.

It was beautiful.

Liang Fei kept this in his heart, not wanting to insult the man by calling his hair beautiful. Who would want to be called beautiful by an old man?

On the other side, Xieren was in heaven, shivering as his master washed his hair with such gentleness. He wasn't sure how Shizun kept doing things like this. No one else made him this calm and content just by being nearby.

Shizun, please stop. He begged in his heart. I shouldn't be able to love someone more than this yet you keep proving me wrong~

Yet Liang Fei continued to run his hands through the demon's hair, taming not only the man but the beast within. It purred at his touch, relaxing only for this person.

After rinsing his hair, the elder bundled it up, intending on getting to the task he'd originally been asked to do. Neither bothered to question his decision to wash Xieren's hair. The gesture was one born of affection and neither wished to put too many words on it.

The elder because he feared what his student might think of him and junior because he feared his master would deny the intimacy.

So they both remained silent as the elder continued with his task. Yet a full minute had passed and the man hadn't moved yet. This would have usually made Xieren inquire about it but he didn't say a word.

He knew why his master was silent and smiled to himself with contentment.

Scratches that he himself had placed there.

The elder pointedly looked away, trying to ignore them. Knowing he'd done this, and seeing it in the light of day were very different things and the sight made him flustered.

Must this child be so shameless?

"Do you like the view from back there, master?" He teased, acting ignorant of his actions. The elder didn't buy it for a second.

"Don't be ridiculous." He denied, slapping the wet rag onto the juniors back. His flinch in pain eased the elder's embarrassment just a bit. "It's just embarrassing to see it like that."

"You put them there." He whined, pouting as the washing began.

"My apologies then."

"There's no need to apologize." He grumbled, hating that his master said such a thing. He could never hate anything his master gave him, whether they be presents or scars. "If I disliked it, I wouldn't allow it to remain."

Liang Fei said nothing, not knowing how to respond. Of course, he knew that but why say it? He really didn't understand.

Xieren was disappointed by the silence, hoping his master might get the hint. He had hoped he would see how he felt but his master was clueless. Part of him yearned to confess his feelings, to tell this man just how much he loved him. That he didn't want to marry anyone else if they weren't him.

That he had waited all this time for him, not because he was angry but because he missed him. That he had wanted to end himself so many times after finding his only light gone from the world.

Yet those words remained in his heart because he knew how the man would respond. He wouldn't be rejected. No, Shizun was too kind for that.

No, he would do something even worse. He would dismiss his feelings. He could already hear the words: 

You don't truly feel that way. 

It's just that you are confused since we were intimate before. 

Once you meet the right woman, you'll realize how silly what you're saying is.

His master was cruel in his kindness. So Xieren kept his feelings inside, showing his love in the only way his master would accept. Physically.

Xieren sighed, feeling somewhat relieved he had figure this out sooner rather than later. Had he said those cursed words, his master would surely distance himself, convinced he was doing Xieren some kind of good.

How hard would it have been to get this close to Shizun had he showed his feelings to the man. Or worse, what if he recalled what had happened that night at the brothel. 

Xieren suddenly felt relieved that that night had been forgotten. While he had enjoyed the intimacy and activities then, it was way too embarrassing!

If one were to base things on sounds alone, it wouldn't be hard to come to the conclusion that one being eaten was Xieren!

Recalling all the sounds he'd made that night was... Ugh, just end him now!!!

Still, it had felt amazing. Not just the... activities but also the feeling of being controlled. He was a powerful being, capable of doing things many didn't even think possible. This was all due to his status as a half breed.

But there was also a downside, where he had to keep his guard up at all times lest someone end his life. Yet he trusted Shizun with his body and was played with in ways he couldn't deny enjoying.

To give up control and let his master pluck from him a melody of pleasure for the entire night was truly magical. Even when he felt his most vulnerable, he felt safe and wanted to show more to this person. Every command was a lifeline and even when he begged for mercy, he knew in his heart he wanted nothing more than to continue.

Keep playing with me like that, was the thought circling around in his head.

Ah, damn, he was getting aroused again.

Unaware of the thoughts in his student's mind, Liang Fei stood up and dumped water over Xieren. He let out a breath, feeling content they had managed to get through this without any problems.

The elder moved to leave yet somehow found himself sitting on the lap of the junior. Between one blink and another, he went from standing to sitting and was left feeling a bit dizzy. Yet those large arms pulled him tight to Xieren's chest, leaving no mystery as to why he was being hugged.

Ah, young people are too troublesome.

"Is there something you want, Xieren?" 

"No, I'm content where I am." Xieren sighed, resting his chin on his master's shoulder. Despite his arousal, he truly did just want to hold the stubborn man.

"Really?" Liang Fei was doubtful, knowing his student was one who seemed to prefer dealing with his 'junior' sooner rather than later.

"Does Shizun want something more?" He purred, nibbling on his earlobe. The elder squirmed, his legs scrambling for purchase but finding none on the wet floor.

"Don't say such things." He moaned, trying to keep himself from reacting to the touch. "I'd rather just talk to you."

"Ah, right, we didn't get a chance to before we got distracted, right?" Xieren showed a bit of mercy, letting his hands remain around the elder's waist.

"Yes. I would like to talk."

"About?"

"You." He answered, feeling Xieren flinch at that. "I want to know what you've been doing since I died."

"Shizun." The growl was a warning, telling him he shouldn't press the matter. But Liang Fei was a fearless man when it came to Xieren. He knew he would never be hurt by him.

"I want to know."

"...Fine, but I want to know more about Shizun too." He huffed, burying his face in Liang Fei's shoulder. He rather not say anything about himself at all. He didn't want his master to know. 

What if he didn't like everything he'd done? The blood of thousands had soaked his hands already and if he was hated by Shizun, he knew his own would join them.

But at the very least, he could ease his worries by learning about his master as well.

Liang Fei felt opposed to the idea, trying to dissuade him. "There isn't much to tell. I'm not very interesting."

"Says who?"

"Says anyone I've ever dated."

"Dated?" He echoed, his grip tightening just a bit. "Has Shizun had other lovers before?"

"Of course. I'm in my 30's." He replied, feeling a bit insulted. Did Xieren think he was without any experience? How else could he teach him? "It'd be sad for me to not have had one before this."

"...Then I suppose I'm quite lucky to have such an experienced person be my lover." Xieren grumbled, nearly a growl as he hid his face in his master's shoulder once more.

Was... was Xieren bitter about him having dated before? How strange. Then again, who wouldn't be upset about being the less experienced party in a relationship? Surely, it was frustrating.

"I promise you'll find your true love someday." He assured, petting his lover's head gently. "It's better to have fewer lovers since it means you will have found your true love sooner than others."

Its what he himself desired for a time. His parents, from what he could recall, were like that. They were very loving and affectionate, making them the envy of their peers. The stories he'd heard about them, how they remained committed to one another no matter how much time passed.

It was something he wished he could have one day too.

"Have you found your true love yet?" Xieren asked, legitimately surprised by his master's words. He knew the man was soft-hearted but to learn he was such a romantic was shocking.

"No." The elder sighed, pressing his cheek to Xieren's head. "Perhaps I never will."

"I'm sure you will, Shizun!" And that person will be me! 

"Love is a mutual feeling though." Liang Fei said, chuckling at the confidence of the junior. Only the young could say things like that with such assurance. "I can't just make them be with me."

"Then all you have to do is make them fall in love with you." Xieren insisted, staring the man down. It was that simple really. If Shizun didn't love him yet, he'd just make him fall for him.

"Is that all?" He snorted, a sound he rarely made. Yet how else could he react?

"Of course!"

Liang Fei could only admire the confidence Xieren had in his views. If love was that easy, wouldn't everyone be with their beloved?

Reaching back, he pressed a hand to Xieren's cheek, stroking it until they were cheek to cheek. It was a loving sight to behold and Xieren felt himself fall just a bit more in love.

"If you ever find someone, you'll be sure to tell me, right?" Liang Fei asked, closing his eyes. He wasn't sure how long they'd be 'together' but he hoped his beloved would feel as cared for as he did at that moment. 

He felt a bit envious of that tenacity.

Xieren tightened his hold around Liang Fei, wishing he could confess but biting his tongue. His master didn't love him yet. He'd be patient, careful really, so he could have this person to himself.

He'd be Shizun's true love, as he was already Xieren's.

"I promise you, Shizun, when I make my true love mine, you'll know first."

"That's good." Liang Fei sighed, feeling relieved. He wanted good things for Xieren and him finding love would be the best. Afterward, he could depart with a lighter heart. He wasn't sure yet what his life would be afterward but hopefully, he'd find something to live for.

For now, he'd live for this promise and Xieren's happiness.

His reason for living, however, desired his attention at that moment. Those arms that kept him on the lap of the junior were now on the move, sliding from his waist to his bare legs.

"Xieren!"

"Now about this small problem of mine..." He ground against Liang Fei, making his intentions very clear.

The elder felt his heart jump, wanting to yell. Small? Who was small? If you are small, I want to see who dares call themselves big.

Instead, he voiced his objection in another way. Pinching his companion's ear.

"Did we not already agree you wouldn't do these kinds of things where others could catch us?" He scolded, his eyes darting toward the door. Anyone could just walk in and see them.

"Yes, I did."

"This is a public bath!" He shifted around, sitting sideways to more easily scold this willful student of his. "Someone could walk in on us and-"

Liang Fei was cut off by a kiss, fogging his mind as it continued. Really, how could someone who never had sex before this kiss so well? It wasn't fair.

"I locked the door and put a seal on it." Xieren assured after pulling away. Liang Fei barely heard him, his mind still reeling from the kiss. Xieren smiled, bring the elder closer. "The person would have to be high ranking cultivator to get through."

"You still promised to behave yourself in here." He chastised, tugging at his lover's hair. He couldn't let that go. No matter what, he refused to.

Xieren laughed, loving how easy his master was to understand at times like this.

"Then lets return to our room." He suggested, lifting the man in his arms as he stood. "You can punish me properly there."

Liang Fei shivered, finding the thought appealing. He wrapped his legs around Xieren's waist, choosing not to ponder too deeply on how hot it was to be lifted like this. Just how strong was Xieren. What else could he do with that strength?

No, he absolutely wouldn't think of things like that! Xieren was still his student.

Instead, he wrapped his arms around Xieren's neck, staring into those lovely heterochromatic eyes. "I'll return with you but not like this."

"Shizun will have to release me first." He teased, loving how his master held onto him so tightly.

Seeing his game, Liang Fei didn't relent. "I'll do so when you move your hands."

Xieren had been holding his master up by holding his legs but at some point, they had moved further north and were now squeezing into his ass. The junior seemed to ponder this request for a moment, his hands molding the soft flesh as he did so.

"I like where they are though." He whined, pouting. "My favorite part of Shizun is in my hands right now."

"Shameless." The elder mumbled, knowing Xieren would definitely hear it. Even without his superior senses, they were close enough to kiss without meaning to. The air between them grew hotter as time went on. Soon enough, neither would care that they were in public.

Bang.

The sound of wood bursting was the only hint of the interruption before the door shielding them from the rest of the world was so ruthlessly kicked down. The valiant wood was further insulted as its abuser walked all over it, ignoring it as he spoke.

"Yo, Bro! I've been looking all over for you!" Xuejie called out, waving as he carelessly walked in, unaware of what he'd just interrupted.

*****

Extra: Interview Theater

Author: So, how does it feel have been caught twice now?

LF: It's mortifying! I'd hate it if he said any- Wait, what do you mean twice? When was the first time!?

XR: I don't really care. Either he leaves or we get an audience. Either way, I'm not stopping.

LF: Xieren!

XR: You want to continue too, don't you?

LF: But someone is her-

XR: Wanna know a trick to make the world fade away?

[Proceeds to kiss LF until he forgets his own name]

Author: I... I think I'll just leave ya'll to it.