It's hard to bet with Yan Wushi

Chang'an welcomed Shen Qiao with his typical commotion. The city lived its own life, just like it had a few months ago when Shen Qiao left it. The capital did not seem to notice his absence, but his daoist heart did not care about such trifles. The only thing that bothered him was whether his letter reached its recipient. It was not Shen Qiao’s habit to appear as an unexpected guest. It was usually the prerogative of his eccentric lover, who, with his sudden appearance, every time turned upside down the entire Xuandu Mountain. The Huanyue Manor looked lively, and all of Shen Qiao’s doubts were instantly dispelled. Already at the gates, the servants were busy, paying attention to the arrived guest. The tame deer get in the way, attracted by the general commotion, forcing to stumble not so efficient servants.  “Sorry, I didn’t take treats for you,” Shen Qiao disappointed the deer, patting his namesake on the withers and saving his own sleeve from his teeth. “Maybe then A-Qiao prepared something for this venerable one?” Shen Qiao lifted his head to meet the gaze of the one he had been looking forward to meeting for so long. The deer did the same, hearing its own name, and instantly forgot about the sleeve in order to run up for the outstretched treat. Yan Wushi’s lips stretched into a smirk. He never got tired of bullying Shen Qiao like this, causing him embarrassment. “Greetings to Yan-zongzhu”, Shen Qiao folded his hands in a polite bow so as not to roll his eyes at Yan Wushi’s usual antics. “I hope this humble daoist will not embarrass you with his presence.” The Huanyue sect leader took a step onto the stone-paved garden path. Even in such an ordinary action, he looked spectacular and majestic in his dark and undoubtedly expensive clothes, which fluttered from his movements. The fawn trotted ridiculously nearby, trying to stick its nose into Yan Wushi’s hand in search of a new delicacy, but the man only waved it away. “You and I are so close, and you meet me so coldly”, Yan Wushi’s eyebrows arched in a mock offended expression, but agile arms had already wrapped their arms around Shen Qiao’s waist. “You should follow the example of A-Qiao and rush towards me”. Hearing his name again, the joyful fawn butted his forehead on Yan Wushi’s thigh, giving Shen Qiao the opportunity to wriggle out of the hug and save his face in front of the servants of the manor, whose invisible presence he felt even after they were frightened by the appearance of their master. “Yan-zongzhu, have some self-respect,” Shen Qiao hurriedly replied, hiding his own embarrassment behind a frown. “If you are not satisfied, then I can find myself a place in an inn”. “A-Qiao, who taught you to turn other people’s words inside out?” Yan Wushi raised his eyebrows in surprise, as if such an answer struck him. ‘Are you the one who constantly twists the meaning to your advantage?’ Shen Qiao flashed through his mind, and he hurriedly threw away Yan Wushi’s hand, once again avoiding impudent touches. They exchanged a couple of dozen quick blows and none of them had even a tenth of their true power put into them. They were more like a greeting ritual than an actual battle, and soon Shen Qiao’s thin fingers were in Yan Wushi’s palm. The Huanyue sect leader’s hand was in its rightful place, on the waist of Shen Qiao, who surrendered under the pressure of his sweetheart and allowed him to pull him into an embrace. Yan Wushi kissed as persistently as always, not giving a second to come to his senses and protest. Shen Qiao could only accept this kiss and try not to get completely lost in it, enjoying the touch of someone else’s lips and the closeness of a loved one. Still, he misses it in separation. “Finally, you are sincere with me, my dear A-Qiao,” Yan Wushi almost purred against Shen Qiao’s lips, as soon as the other began to breathe heavily from the insistent kiss. The sight of a beautiful man, whose milky-white skin was touched by a blush of embarrassment, caressed his eyes, and it was difficult to resist not to get this beauty right now. But Yan Wushi had already decided that all the pleasure would be left for dessert. “That venerable one no longer dares to keep a guest at the doorstep,” he sneered, finally running his finger over Shen Qiao’s wet and reddened lips before stepping back and pulling him into the house with him. * The next morning was not ordinary for Shen Qiao, giving him the opportunity to wake up without the hustle and bustle of the routine of Xuandu Mountain, but in the arms of Yan Wushi. Through the loosely drawn curtains, the rays of morning sun, which had spent enough time in the sky, were already making their way. An early rise did not frighten Shen Qiao. On the contrary, it only allowed him to admire the awakened world. Yan Wushi squirmed beside him, closing the ring of hands around his waist a little tighter. “It’s still early, A-Qiao, go back to sleep,” he spoke in a voice hoarse from sleep, tickling his neck with hot breath, but without opening his eyes. It seems the Huanyue sect leader was going to continue to luxuriate in bed, as if he was the one who went crazy at night from caresses and painful pleasure, making up for all the days that they were away from each other. At such thoughts, Shen Qiao embarrassedly wrapped his inner robes, through the open collar of which an insolent hand had already slipped, and gently disengaged from the other’s embrace. For today, he already had one thing planned, and it was necessary to get ready. Or was it because if he stayed in bed one more second longer, he wouldn’t want to leave again? The servants of the manor had already managed to prepare a tub of heated water in advance, which turned out to be just right in temperature, pleasantly warming the body and slightly pinching the traces of the past night scattered over the snow-white skin. Shen Qiao allowed himself to relax a bit before starting his morning rituals. “A-Qiao was going to run away without me?” As soon as Shen Qiao, dressed in light inner robes, stepped out from behind the partition separating the ablution tub from the rest of the room, he immediately fell into other’s arms. Yan Wushi clicked his tongue, and mischievous sparks were already visible in his sleepy eyes. Judging by his casual appearance, he just got up, but his charm has not gone anywhere, attracting the eye. “You were sleeping,” Shen Qiao justified himself, looking at the silver strands at Yan Wushi’s temples, which, as it seemed to him, had become a little more. “You don’t need to run somewhere this early while you’re here”, Yan Wushi nuzzled Shen Qiao’s wet hair, which smelled pleasantly of fragrant oil. “Better keep me company”. The Huanyue sect leader did not listen to the objections that Shen Qiao had already taken a bath, pulling him along with him. No one could stop him from enjoying the pleasant sensation of graceful fingers combing through slightly tangled from sleep hair, pouring water over it. By the time they returned to the room, the morning sun was high and breakfast had been prepared on the table. “I want to visit Xuandu Temple,” Shen Qiao said as he cooled the rice porridge prepared by the servants. They perfectly remembered his preferences, fearing the master’s tough temper.  Yan Wushi sighed, casually shaking the teapot of wine in his hand. The thin jade walls shone beautifully in the sunlight, which made it possible to see the liquid splashing in it. “Even away from the Xuandu Mountain, you still think about business,” Huanyue sect leader said disappointedly, still pouring wine into the same translucent cup. Shen Qiao stays silent, gesturing to refuse the offered drink. Still, his alcohol tolerance has not improved, and if he goes along with the head of Huanyue, he risks not getting into the temple. “A-Qiao is so indifferent to other people’s well-being,” Yan Wushi complained, leaving attempts to get his partner drunk, but a smile was heard in his voice. Which immediately bloomed on his lips, and small wrinkles at the corners of his eyes added slyness to his look. “Perhaps you will give a fraction of such attention to this venerable one, too?” Shen Qiao mentally rolled his eyes. “Yan-zongzhu, I’m already regretted waking you up.” Xuandu Mountain leader’s voice slipped into a nasal note, as it usually did when he tried to calm down the ardor of his sometimes overly clingy lover. “It just so happened that now I have to go with you”. Yan Wushi did not express a single drop of remorse, but removed his already outstretched hand. He did not want to anger his A-Qiao once again, knowing that in revenge, he could ignore him all day. * On the busy streets of Chang’an, it was easy to blend in with the crowds of citizens running about their business or just strolling past the open shops. But for Shen Qiao, this proved to be a difficult task. The beautiful appearance of the daoist, more like a celestial descended into the world of mortals, attracted attention, periodically causing admiring whispers from the girls passing by. Yan Wushi, who was not a single step behind him, did not save the situation at all, but rather aggravated it with his arrogant, but undoubtedly handsome, appearance. He took the other’s attention for granted, pacing so close to Shen Qiao with a complete calmness that their black and white robes created a stark contrast. “Shen-zhangjiao, is it really you?” was heard from somewhere on the side, and Shen Qiao slowed down, turning towards the one who called. Yan Wushi’s hand rested on his waist, as if protecting him from the crowd, but more likely he did it so that Shen Qiao would never forget his presence for a second. Shen Qiao had already seen the man who called out to him in the Xuandu Temple more than once, when he himself visited it every time he came to Chang’an. Zheng Chao was the official at the imperial court who received his position due the new reforms of the Emperor. Shen Qiao had already exchanged a couple of phrases with him before and remembered him as a polite and smart person. “Greetings, Minister Zheng”. A friendly smile that always attracted other people’s glances touched Shen Qiao’s lips, leaving no one indifferent. “Are you going to the Xuandu Temple, too?” Zheng Chao was nodding his head, but suddenly he was trembling as if he was on the verge of life and death. “Yan-zongzhu, nice to meet you too,” he said nervously, stewing under Yan Wushi’s haughty gaze, which only confirmed the falsity of his own words more. Shen Qiao mentally sighed, unable to do anything about the Huanyue sect leader’s behavior. Yan Wushi, accustomed to the world of martial arts, where everything was decided by strength and skills, did not care about petty officials buried up to their heads in their scrolls with documentation. The only reason he paid attention to Zheng Chao was because Shen Qiao did the same. “How are you doing?” Shen Qiao politely asked, hoping that Yan Wushi would not sneer in his usual manner, bringing the unfortunate official to faint. “I remember the last time you burned incense for good luck. Have the gods responded to your request?” Zheng Chao immediately beamed and forgot about the awkwardness, completely captivated by Shen Qiao’s courtesy. Yan Wushi next to him just chuckled, not at all surprised by how this daoist affects other people. “It’s good that you asked!” The advisor exclaimed happily, as if remembering something important. Zheng Chao put his hand into his sleeve, fished out a beautifully decorated envelope, and immediately handed it to his interlocutor. “Tomorrow I’m having a banquet in honor of my promotion to minister. I would be honored if you would attend my humble celebration.” Shen Qiao accepted the envelope regarding it. On the one hand, he did not want to be in the spotlight, because he did not come here for this. But during his absence in the capital, he completely fell out of the events of the outside world, so it would be nice to fill in the missing knowledge and communicate with those who were close to politics. “A-Qiao, you don’t have to accept the invitation just for the sake of it,” Yan Wushi finally spoke, and Shen Qiao realized that all his thoughts and doubts were reflected on his face again. “This venerable one will gladly tell you whatever you want over a cup of wine. I even order to cook dinner for you, no worse than at a banquet.” These words were completely out of sync with the Huanyue sect leader’s habitual demeanor, who was usually only happy to leave his lover in the middle of events and watch what was happening. Yan Wushi was obviously cunning, and he knew something that Shen Qiao could not know. And, apparently, he refused to talk about it. But Shen Qiao, he won’t fall for his tricks. “Yan-zongzhu, it’s impolite to refuse the invitation,” he answered impassively, hiding the envelope with the invitation in his sleeve in spite and again turning to Zheng Chao with a slight smile: “Minister Zheng can count on my presence.” “A-Qiao, ah, A-Qiao, you are as soft-hearted as always,” Yan Wushi sighed contritely, but he didn’t seem to be particularly upset by Shen Qiao’s decision. Is it possible that this was also part of his plan? Shen Qiao could only wait for the Huanyue sect leader to break down and tell about his intrigues himself. In the evening of the same day, Yu Shengyan arrived at the manor, and Yan Wushi had to leave to listen to his disciple’s report. In order to make the most of his time alone, Shen Qiao went to the training grounds. Although he was one of the strongest masters in the Central Plains, there was never a limit to cultivation. Qi habitually spread throughout the body, filling the meridians with strength and directing it into the sword. Shanhe Tongbei in Shen Qiao’s palm seemed like an extension of his hand, obeying his every gesture, as if he weighed nothing. All his movements were graceful and harmonious, but if it was an actual fight, the power put into each gesture would crush the opponent. Shen Qiao was so focused on executing each technique that it seemed as if he was immersed in his own world where only he existed. His perception was sharpened to the limit, so he felt more than he saw someone else’s intrusion. The flow of other’s qi stirred Shen Qiao’s hair, who dodged it. “Welcome back, Yan-zongzhu,” he spoke, immediately stepping back under the new attack. Yan Wushi’s fingers, skilled in both combat and love, crossed with the sword, and a gust of wind caused by a surge of power stirred the clothes of the two masters. In an instant, they exchanged several dozen blows, and if the outsiders were nearby now, he would see only blurred shadows. It looked like Yu Shengyan brought some good news, and now Yan Wushi was in a good mood. His attacks seem to be lazy, and someone could mistakenly assume that he was succumbing. But Shen Qiao knew perfectly well that this impression was deceptive, and he should not lose his vigilance. “You probably missed me?” Yan Wushi asked, lunging and deliberately aiming at the most vulnerable points and forcing Shen Qiao to go on the defensive using Rainbow Shadow. “This venerable one had to leave you for a while, but I am ready to atone for my guilt.” Seizing the moment between the flurry of blows, Shen Qiao made his move, swinging his sword and directing more qi into its blade. Shanhe Tongbei, in the skillful hands of its owner, can cut through anything, but Chunshui Fingering technique was one of the most famous techniques in the world of martial arts for a reason, that Yan Wushi could easily stop the weapon with just two fingers. “You don’t need to bother yourself,” Shen Qiao hurriedly replied, raising a qi barrier to repel another ruthless attack. “This humble Daoist dares not waste your time.” Yan Wushi chuckled, and his lips curled into a smug smile for a moment. But she immediately disappeared, replaced by a bored expression. “And I thought you would be interested in the latest news,” he drawled, at the same time deflecting Shen Qiao’s counterattack with one hand. “There are such rumors in the Emperor’s Palace that even I am surprised. Had A-Qiao suddenly become so thick-skinned that he had surpassed me?” Both partners jumped back synchronously, and the power of their qi caused the ground under their feet to crack in a grid. None of them looked tired or stressed. This sparring was one way for them to communicate. “It’s hard to compete with Yan-zongzhu’s shamelessness,” Shen Qiao replied a little sharper, holding his sword at the ready to meet any blow at any moment. Such an answer only amused Yan Wushi more, inciting him to tease even more. He kicked off the ground, rising up a spray of stone chips from under his feet, and closed the distance in an attempt not to strike, but to grab. “Noble Shen-daozang is not shy about slandering others,” he clicked his tongue, as if he was actually upset by these words. Shen Qiao deftly dodged using his qingong and brought his eyebrows to the bridge of his nose, unfairly accused of slander. “If Yan-zongzhu wants to say something, then he should not beat around the bush,” he replied irritably, at the last moment stuck out his palm to meet his partner’s blow. “You should have said that you were interested in listening to me,” Yan Wushi laughed with his low, velvety laugh, not letting Shen Qiao come to his senses and inflicting new blows with his palm one after another. Outraged, Shen Qiao did not answer, pursing his lips and silently repelling other people’s attacks. The Huanyue sect leader paid no attention to this, continuing to speak as if nothing had happened. “I thought it would be interesting for you to hear what happened at the Imperial Court,” Yan Wushi spoke insinuatingly, not forgetting to push his partner with his attacks. “But many officials are already gossiping around that Yang Jian believes Chang’an has become too small for the capital.” Shen Qiao pricked up his ears, still not saying a word. He was bad at hiding his emotions, which were always written on his face. Yan Wushi knowingly chuckled, seeing the interest, and effortlessly delivered several quick blows, once again forcing the opponent to use his qingong skills. He didn’t seem to want to say more. “Does His Imperial Majesty have any suitable cities in mind?” Shen Qiao couldn’t resist curiosity as the silence dragged on for too long and his partner focused on the battle. “A-Qiao, are you really interested?” Yan Wushi raised his eyebrows in surprise, and Shen Qiao immediately regretted talking to him. Indulging his desire to hit the head of Huanyue, he went on the attack, regaining his position. In a normal situation, he would not allow himself such behavior, but now they are in battle, aren’t they? Smiling contentedly, Yan Wushi calmly met the other’s onslaught. It only took him a few movements to hit the acupuncture points of Shen Qiao, who had lost his vigilance. His immobilized body fell into the arms of the Demonic Sovereign, pressing against his firm chest. “Yan Wushi!” Shen Qiao could only exclaim, and a blush, either from anger or from embarrassment, spread over the snow-white skin of his cheekbones. The Huanyue sect leader’s lips were touched by a seductive smile that promised nothing decent that could break from these very lips. “If you’re so eager to hear what else I’ve learned, why don’t you try asking the right question?” he cooed, lifting Shen Qiao’s face by his chin. “You know that if you call me Yan-lang, I’ll do anything for you.” ‘It is not true!’ Shen Qiao wanted to object. No matter how much he asked during their intimacy, calling his sweetheart so embarrassingly, Yan Wushi did not even think of giving him a break, torturing him with pleasure and a stream of obscenities with a hot whisper in his ear. But Shen Qiao did not say it out loud, blushing even more at such thoughts. “What is it you remember now, A-Qiao?” Yan Wushi asked, picking up a strand that had fallen out of his lover’s neat hairstyle with his fingers and tucking it behind his ear to reveal his embarrassed face. “Yan-zongzhu, first release me,” Shen Qiao replied in spite, wanting to hide his reddened face from the mockering gaze, but the blocked acupuncture points did not allow it. Yan Wushi’s smile indicated that this request had not worked. Instead of answering, he grabbed the supple body of his lover, lifting him up as if he weighed nothing. He could cover any distance with just a few jumps, but he slowly walked away from the training grounds. “Yang Jian ordered the construction of a new city near Chang’an to begin,” Yan Wushi spoke as if casually, not even looking at Shen Qiao in his hands and looking ahead. “They say that it is there that the new capital will be located.” Shen Qiao remained silent, still dissatisfied with his behavior. Yan Wushi didn’t say anything else either. It was not clear whether he wanted to draw more intrigue or whether he really had nothing more to say on this subject. “Where are you taking me?” After some time of their silent walk, Shen Qiao asked distantly, fixing his gaze somewhere between the collarbones in the slightly open collar of the man, so as not to look into his eyes. “I told you the secret as I promised, but you still didn’t fulfill your condition,” Yan Wushi immediately replied, smiling promisingly. He slowed his pace and leaned towards his partner’s ear. “Today I will definitely hear you call me Yan-lang.” Knowing the vengeful nature of the Huanyue leader, Shen Qiao knew that these were not empty words. * When Shen Qiao and Yan Wushi arrived at Zheng Chao’s manor, it was already noisy and crowded. The guests who arrived communicated with each other, congratulating the host of the banquet and taking their places. Zheng Chao personally met the two eminent masters, wishing to show his respect. “I’m glad that you pay attention to my modest celebration,” he bowed, accepting a red envelope from Shen Qiao’s hands and inviting them to pass with a gesture. “Your seats are ready.” There were more guests in the hall than in the manor’s courtyard. Many have already poured the wine into bowls, conducting small talk among themselves. All of these people were officials of various ranks, but none of them knew martial arts. Shen Qiao felt it at the level of his own instincts. Each master always felt the presence of another master, but the only source of qi nearby was only Yan Wushi. Their seats turned out to be close to the central table, intended for the owner of the manor himself. Zheng Chao did not want to fall out of favor with both of the strongest masters at once, especially the unpredictable Huanyue sect leader, so he gave them places of honor. The table was already set with various dishes, so that everyone could choose something to their liking. Some guests recognized the two heads of famous sects who had arrived and came over to greet them. Shen Qiao’s courtesy would have been enough for the entire world, and there was still the same amount left. He exchanged insignificant phrases with his interlocutors, discussing the news that Yan Wushi had told him yesterday after he decided he had exhausted Shen Qiao enough with his insatiable nature. Now the Huanyue sect leader was sitting next to him, and Shen Qiao felt his thigh pressed against him under the table. They were so close. After all these greetings, Shen Qiao did not even have time to touch the food. He only drank a cup of fragrant tea, ignoring the offered wine. Only courtesy kept him from ignoring those who took the time to talk to him. But Yan Wushi, who was sitting next to him, was not very patient. As soon as Shen Qiao once again opened his mouth to answer another official, a piece of perfectly cooked fish poked into his lips. Under the startled gaze of the involuntary bystander, he had to chew on the treat before turning to Yan Wushi, who licked the tips of the chopsticks with a straight face. “Shen-daozang never touched his food, so this venerable one took it upon himself not to leave him hungry,” he explained, smiling affectionately, but the officer standing next to him had goosebumps running down his back from this smile, and he hurriedly retreated. “Yan-zongzhu, have self-respect!” Shen Qiao protested, lowering his voice so that others could not hear him. Yan Wushi took a sip of wine from his own cup and arched his eyebrows in surprise. “Is Shen-daozang talking to me?” with a completely uninterested look, he asked, but in his eyes was showing mockery. “I thought you completely forgot about me.” Shen Qiao really wanted to tip the bowl of soup on his head, but it was a pity to waste the efforts of the cooks. Instead, he turned away, hiding his annoyance behind a cup of tea. “If you do that, I won’t talk to you,” he said distantly, his brow furrowing slightly. It was this tactic that most often worked with Yan Wushi. “Don’t be angry with me, A-Qiao,” Yan Wushi answered conciliatorily, lightly embracing Shen Qiao by the waist. “My vulnerable heart breaks when you say so.” But probably everyone in this world knew that the Huanyue sect leader’s heart was made of stone, and his skin was thicker than the Great Wall. Shen Qiao was about to wriggle out of his embrace, when dancers ran into the center of the hall, and pleasant music filled the room. The unfolding performance occupied all the attention of those present, so the hand on the waist suddenly ceased to seem like an unacceptable gesture. Shen Qiao would not say it out loud, but such an innocent touch was nice, no matter how angry he was with him. The atmosphere of fun was relaxing, as was the wine that kept filling the cups. Between entertaining performances, guests who wished to congratulate the host of the celebration on his promotion took over the attention, going out to his table and making toasts. The rest did not miss the opportunity to whisper and gossip behind the back of each of the speakers. Shen Qiao did not approve of such behavior, but it gave him some idea of what was going on in the Imperial Court right now. “Greetings to daozang,” a voice suddenly came from the side, and Shen Qiao turned his head to meet the gaze of one of the guests. It was the first time he had seen this man, but he looked friendly, bowing his head politely in a quick bow of greeting. “It’s unusual to see a daoist monk at a social reception. May I inquire about your name?” “The last name of this humble daoist is Shen,” Shen Qiao answered, folding his hands in greeting, but he did not have time to give his name. On the other side, Yan Wushi’s warm breath touched Shen Qiao’s ear, causing goosebumps.  “This is Wang Yunxue. He also recently assumed a new position as a minister to the court,” The Huanyue sect leader explained in a low voice, glancing at his neighbor and immediately raising his voice so that he could hear. “How ignorant of him not to recognize the leader of Xuandu Mountain! And my A-Qiao is too modest to talk about it.” Yan Wushi smiled mockingly as he watched Wang Yunxue’s face first turn white from the realization of his mistake, and then turn red from being shamed. Shen Qiao cast a reproachful glance at Yan Wushi, moving slightly away from him indicatively. “Forgive this insignificant one for not recognizing you right away, Shen-zhangjiao,” chattered Wang Yunxue, and if he weren’t sitting now, he would certainly have thrown himself at his feet with apologies. “It’s all right, Minister Wang,” Shen Qiao hurried to assure him, feeling the awkwardness of the situation that Yan Wushi deliberately created. “Unlike Yan-zongzhu, this humble daoist doesn’t seek to gain publicity.” Yan Wushi chuckled, amused by the caustic reply, but stay silent after having had enough amusement. As Shen Qiao knew, this silence would not last long, so he hurried to chat with a new interlocutor for as long as possible and discuss not only state affairs but also philosophical issues. Wang Yunxue was interested in daoist teachings, and Shen Qiao enthusiastically shared his knowledge with him. “Excuse me, Shen-zhangjiao, but do you mind if I leave to congratulate Minister Zheng?” Wang Yunxue threw a guilty look at his interlocutor, as if he really showed him disrespect. As soon as he received Shen Qiao’s assurance that this would not offend him, the Imperial official went to the center of the hall to take the floor. His servant, the whole banquet standing against the wall behind him, went out with him, carrying the precious casket. As soon as she was in the hands of the host of the banquet, the doors of the manor were flung open with force, causing everyone present to turn their heads in their direction. Four figures dressed all in black burst into the hall. Their faces were hidden by masks, and in their hands were swords. One glance at them was enough to understand that they did not come with good intentions. “What do you think you doing?!” A familiar voice was heard as one of the uninvited guests grabbed Wang Yunxue, threateningly putting his weapon to his neck. The rest of the intruders bristled with their swords so that no one would dare to come closer. Zheng Chao jumped up from his seat, and his guards immediately rallied their formation around him so that no one would dare to encroach on their master. “How dare you attack my guests?” he exclaimed indignantly, looking at the uninvited guests from the height of the platform on which he sat. “Who you are? You break into my house, hiding your faces like wicked bandits! If you attack the subjects of the Emperor, then have the courage not to hide your identity!” As soon as these words were spoken, a dagger stabbed into the table in front of Zheng Chao. It was just a warning, but the imperial official cried out in fright as he stepped back closer to the guards. “Don’t interfere,” the robbers threatened, holding a sword at Wang Yunxue’s throat. “This man should get what he deserves.” “Guards, take them!” Zheng Chao doesn’t listen to other people’s advice. If the guests at his banquet get hurt, then this event will fall as a shadow on his reputation. The manor’s personal guards immediately rushed towards the troublemakers, but a wave of qi crashed into their formation with force, knocking them back. All four attackers turned out to be not just robbers, but also masters of martial arts. The battle with the guards was not part of their plans, so all four, as one, soared into the air from the floor, not releasing their hostage. The skill of qingong allowed them to overcome the distance to the doors in an instant. But not everything always goes according to plan. Someone else blocked their path. Dressed in snow-white clothes, this man gave the impression that he did not belong to this world at all. He was graceful and slender, but his thin fingers held the sword firmly. “Please release Minister Wang,” Shen Qiao spoke calmly, and his face did not show any anger or excitement, “and I will not harm you.” “Get out of my way!” The attackers barked, pointing his sword at the daoist who stood in their way. The last thing he had time to see was the white robes fluttering from the quick movement, before the wave of qi directed by the sword collided with his weapon. The shock wave went through the hardened steel, reverberating into the hand. The sword slipped from the robber’s numb hand, and immediately a few more blows hit the acupuncture points. The attacker’s body went limp, falling to the floor. It all happened so fast that almost no one had time to notice the movements of the leader of Xuandu Mountain. His Rainbow Shadow was only rivaled by Yan Wushi, who hadn’t even lifted a finger since the mess started. He was the only one who showed no interest in what was happening. He seemed to care more about the wine in his cup now than about the unfolding conflict. Having lost one of their comrades, two more uninvited guests rushed into battle. Shen Qiao easily identified the demonic qi flowing through their meridians. His fluid and graceful movements gave the erroneous impression that they were not dangerous, but anyone who had ever faced him in combat understood how deadly he could be. It was easy for the grandmaster to cope even with several opponents, even if they can control qi. Wang Yunxue, who got into the very center of the battle, did not even have time to understand what had happened, as his captors were already lying unconscious on the floor, and the completely unperturbed Shen Qiao towered over them, pointing the tip of the sword to the floor. “Are you okay, Minister Wang?” He asked, and there was not a drop of weariness in his voice, as if he was just walking around here. The shocked Wang Yunxue did not immediately realize that Shen Qiao addressed the question to him, and then quickly nodded his head.  “You are my savior, Shen-zhangjiao!” he almost cried, ready to fall to his knees either from gratitude or from the experienced shock. “I don’t know how to repay you for this! I am ready to give you any reward.” “This humble daoist does not dare to burden you,” Shen Qiao politely refused. He saved this good man not because of a reward, but only out of a sense of duty and sympathy from a pleasant conversation. “You better be careful, Minister Wang.” The rest of the guests also gradually moved away from the shock, discussing noisily what had happened. The guards who arrived tied up the unconscious robbers, taking them to the dungeon at the manor. Gradually, the former atmosphere of fun returned, as if nothing had happened. “What worries my dear A-Qiao?” Yan Wushi came up and put his arm around Shen Qiao’s shoulders. Other man did not even resist such a gesture and say nothing, immersed in his own thoughts. Noticing this, Yan Wushi unobtrusively pulled him along, heading towards the exit from the hall. In the midst of the general festivity, no one would have noticed the absence of two guests. It is not that someone else’s opinion of their leaving without goodbye bothered the Huanyue sect leader. It was already late evening outside, but the summer breeze gave a pleasant feeling of coolness after a stuffy hall full of people, easily tugging at the locks of two people’s hair. Instead of going back to the carriage they had taken to the banquet, Yan Wushi decided it was worth taking a walk. The sounds of the manor were far behind, and the streets of Chang’an, normally bustling during the daytime, were now so calm. All the street lights had already faded out, and now it was easy to see the stars and the moon in the sky. But they didn’t care about Yan Wushi when the most handsome person was by his side. Shen Qiao’s brows were still slightly furrowed, as if some thought was bothering him and he couldn’t let it go. The Huanyue sect leader was also worried about this. He suddenly stopped, and his hand on Shen Qiao’s waist forced him to stand up as well. Shen Qiao raised his head, and his face in the cold moonlight seemed to be carved from milky translucent jade. Even a righteous person can’t resist such beauty, but Yan Wushi was not righteous either. His palm traced the outline of Shen Qiao’s face, and he leaned down to kiss him. They stood in the middle of an empty street, and Yan Wushi didn’t care if anyone could see them. He simply could not help but take advantage of such a vulnerable state as his sweetheart’s now, taking possession of his lips. Shen Qiao’s fingers dug into the sumptuous fabric of the Huanyue sect leader’s robes, but it didn’t look like he was about to push him away. Kissing Yan Wushi had an amazing ability to make him forget his worries. This kiss seemed to sober up Shen Qiao, bringing him back to his senses. An embarrassed blush touched his cheekbones, but he simply lowered his face, hiding it from Yan Wushi’s gaze. His labored breathing escaped his kissed lips. “Yan-zongzhu, I want to find out what is behind what happened,” he finally spoke, and his voice gradually gained its usual confidence. “A-Qiao, do you want to spend the time allotted for the two of us playing detective?” Yan Wushi’s insinuating voice sounded above his ear, and his lips immediately touched the sensitive spot behind. Shen Qiao flinched in his embrace. “This is not worth your attention.” Shen Qiao’s brows furrowed, and he pressed his palms against his sweetheart’s chest to pull away. It was impossible to conduct serious conversations in the wrong hands, especially when your interlocutor was Yan Wushi. “I saved Wang Yunxue today, but what if he is still in danger?” Shen Qiao retorted, catching the hand of the Huanyue chief, who attempted to wrap his arms around his waist again. “Who could hold a grudge against such a person?” “A-Qiao, there are reasons for everything,” Yan Wushi retorted in response, intercepting the other man’s wrist and bringing his hand to his lips to leave a kiss on the back. “And I want to know them,” Shen Qiao replied stubbornly, pulling his hand away and hiding both palms in his sleeves. “I do not dare to ask for your help. I can handle it myself.” Yan Wushi watched with a disappointed look as the graceful hands of his lover disappeared into the folds of the fabric and sighed. “A-Qiao, ah, A-Qiao, you are incredibly noble, but stubborn,” he complained, turning to the road and continuing the interrupted path. “This venerable one has only one thing left to yield to you. You can do what you want.” “I thank Yan-zongzhu for allowing me,” Shen Qiao replied, sarcastic notes again appearing in his voice. Yan Wushi chuckled and stopped. Putting his hands behind his back, he turned to his lover, and a sly smile appeared on his lips. “But on the condition that we make a bet with you whether this person is worth your grace or not,” he spoke, glancing over Shen Qiao’s figure as if he was challenging him. “What is the interest in resolving a dispute with giveaways when there is not a bit of excitement? The winner gets whatever they want.” It dumbfounded Shen Qiao for a moment, and he parted his lips. Yet Yan Wushi never ceased to amaze him, bringing spice to their relationship. “Only within the limits of descent,” the leader of Xuandu Mountain hastily responded. His stubbornness was ahead of common sense, causing a desire to once again prove to the cynical Huanyue sect leader that there was still kindness left in this world. Yan Wushi just chuckled smugly. * “Unfortunately, master is not on the property right now.” The servant bowed apologetically. “In the morning he urgently had to leave on the orders of the Emperor. This one cannot let you in without his permission.” Shen Qiao took a quick glance at Yan Wushi next to him, which caused them to stay up in the morning after sleeping. He did not even repent, as if not noticing the look on himself. How now to get permission to interrogate the prisoners is unknown. The only thing that Shen Qiao wanted to find out was that the captured robbers had not yet been handed over to the city guards. “Shen-zhangjiao is doing your master a favor by so mercifully taking on the responsibility of dealing with yesterday’s problem,” Yan Wushi intervened, arrogantly looking down at the servant and placing his hands behind his back. “I wonder what will happen when Zheng Chao is accused of an assassination attempt on the guests in his manor?” The servant bent even more under the pressure of the Huanyue sect leader, as if his gaze had an unbearable weight on his shoulders. Yan Wushi masterfully knew how to put pressure on other people’s weaknesses, easily calculating them. Shen Qiao thought he would stay on the sidelines and take the position of an observer. He probably did this because he wanted to see the outcome of their bet, and the poor servant simply stood in the way of his selfish desires. This explanation was the closest thing to the truth. “This insignificant does not dare to jeopardize the master’s reputation,” the servant completely wilted, stepping aside to let the two masters pass by. “I beg you, don’t tell him I disobeyed his orders.” “I’m sure Minister Zheng will understand that you did it for his benefit,” Shen Qiao tried to calm him down. Yan Wushi just chuckled, placing his hand on his lower back and urging him not to waste time and move forward. The dungeon in the manor was quite small, intended more for temporary imprisonment than for full-fledged punishment. When the door opened, four pairs of eyes immediately stared at them. The masks had already been removed from yesterday’s attackers, and now everyone’s face could be seen. They were no different from other people, and they could easily be lost in the crowd. In the presence of two masters, the captives were completely frightened. That Shen Qiao, whose skill they had seen yesterday, that Yan Wushi, whose glory even a novice in martial arts knew about, inspired awe. In the dungeon’s setting, both people looked alien. Looking at the prisoners, Shen Qiao could not immediately decide where to start. He never knew how to interrogate, always politely and on an equal footing with the interlocutor. “A-Qiao, you don’t have to stand on ceremony if you want to win the bet,” Yan Wushi chuckled, seeing Shen Qiao’s difficulties. “You.” The Huanyue sect leader’s finger, adorned with a simple but skillfully made ring, pointed to one of the captives. Under his gaze, the man felt even more insignificant. “You look smarter, you will answer,” Yan Wushi ordered, immediately placing his hands behind his back again, as if showing that he had finished ordering. Shen Qiao sighed as he looked at the intimidated man with sympathy. Huanyue sect leader’s methods, as always, were not very gentle. “May I know your name?” Shen Qiao asked, and his calm and friendly tone somewhat confused the prisoner. “Fang Min,” he replied, and his eyes flickered to the face of the handsome daoist, then to the arrogant look of the Huanyue sect leader, until he stopped at the first one. The fear that had previously prevented him from assessing the situation gradually dissipated, and in Fang Min’s head, a logical chain apparently formed that connected the people who visited him. If it was impossible not to recognize Yan Wushi, thanks to his eccentric actions and his place at the top of the list of the grandmasters, then the modest leader of the number one daoist sect was still not known by sight to everyone. Fang Min did not recognize him immediately, both yesterday during the battle and today. “Shen-zhangjiao, spare this insignificant one,” he pleaded, either apologizing for not knowing, or really asking for mercy. “Fang-gongzi, please tell us why you wanted to kidnap Minister Wang?” Shen Qiao tried to interrupt the prisoner’s self-flagellation, trying to speak as softly as possible. He believed that information can be obtained not only through fear but also through a kind attitude. Fang Min stopped wailing, falling silent and casting a quick glance at his comrades. He hesitated, as if expecting support from them, but the accomplices did not dare to speak under the lazy but dangerous gaze of Yan Wushi. “So our leader ordered,” Fang Min finally answered, realizing that he would have to answer alone. “We followed his orders. This person paid him money for this task.” “Which sect do you belong to?” Yan Wushi, who was silent earlier, asked a question. It was clear from his voice that he was not really interested in the answer, but Shen Qiao prepared to receive new information. There was a hidden motive behind almost every word or action of the Huanyue sect leader. Obviously, he could not help but know which sects are doing business not only in the territory of Chang’an, but throughout the Central Plains, so he asked with a different purpose, which Shen Qiao had yet to find out. “I am a disciple from the Jixing sect,” Fang Min hastened to answer, as if his life depended on the speed of his answer. Shen Qiao thought about it. It was the first time he had heard of such a sect. After the imperial dynasty changed, more and more people gathered in sects, united by a common idea and goals. No matter how hard Shen Qiao tried, keeping track of everything happening in the world was difficult, and it was possible that he might not know about the existence of little known sects. But judging by yesterday’s battle, the sect had studied demonic techniques, although they could not compete with the top three sects descended from the Riyue sect. “Could you know who might wish harm to Minister Wang?” he asked, returning to the original subject. “It will help me a lot.” But Fang Min didn’t know. An unknown person wished to remain anonymous, sending a servant in his place. According to the original plan, everything was supposed to go smoothly, and the four kidnappers were going to hand over the hostage at the agreed place, but everything went awry when two grandmasters were at the banquet. Yan Wushi chuckled at those words, and Fang Min involuntarily cast a wary glance in his direction. “What kind of place is it?” Shen Qiao also looked at the head of Huanyue, but only with a mute reproach. And then he turned his former benevolent glance on his interlocutor. “Some manor near the Yunzui Temple,” Fang Min replied, turning his attention to the daoist and calming down again. “I don’t know exactly who it belongs to, but they say it belongs to one of the Imperial officials or his family.” Shen Qiao didn’t know who owns this manor, but it was most likely a clue leading to who ordered the kidnapping. The only one here who knew the situation in the city perfectly was Yan Wushi, but Shen Qiao did not want to ask him about it now. He will not miss the opportunity to cheat and just say nothing. It would be too embarrassing to ask him for information right here in front of strangers. “It belongs to the Zheng family,” one of the other three captives called out, answering an unspoken question. A stream of qi flew past him with a whistle of cut air, escaping from Yan Wushi’s finger. It flew very close to the man’s throat, cutting off a strand of hair. “Who gave you permission to speak?” The Demonic Sovereign’s bitter voice cut through to the bones of everyone present in this room. The prisoners fell silent, realizing that the Huanyue sect leader had now deliberately missed, warning that the next time the blow would hit the target. If Yan Wushi wants to kill someone, he will do it. “Yan-zongzhu, this was important information,” Shen Qiao reproached him, adding a detached tone to his voice and not even turning towards Yan Wushi. Instead, he bowed briefly to the frightened poor man. “Thank you for telling me about it.” But this information was negligible, because the prisoners no longer said anything important that could advance their judgments. “All the above points to Minister Zheng being the culprit,” Shen Qiao concluded after thinking over today’s conversation in the dungeon. They had already returned to the Huanyue Manor and were having lunch in the outdoor pavilion in the garden. The dense summer vegetation hid them from prying eyes, so Shen Qiao allowed himself to remain in the arms of his sweetheart. Freshly brewed tea in a cup pleased with its aroma, but did not ease other people’s thoughts. “But that’s not true,” Shen Qiao disputed his own conclusion, frowning a little thoughtfully. “Our presence broke the plan at the banquet, but Minister Zheng himself invited us. Why would he interfere with his own plans?” Yan Wushi smiled, smoothing the frown between his brows with the pad of his thumb before leaving a light kiss on this spot. “My A-Qiao is so smart. You become even more beautiful when you say that,” he cooed as he watched Shen Qiao’s cheeks blush. “But why did you decide that Zheng Chao could not be guilty?” Shen Qiao did not know how to answer this question. He did not know this man so well, but the impression of him was positive. Shen Qiao just wanted to believe and believed that there are many good people in the world, and that you can find something good in every person. The thin ear of the martial artist discerned the rustle of bushes in an instant, and Shen Qiao tensed up, twitching from Yan Wushi’s embrace. He only gripped him tighter, preventing him from pulling away or even escaping. No matter how many years they were together, Shen Qiao always hesitated to show his feelings in front of others. “Yan Wushi!” he was indignant in a low voice, as if he was afraid to attract even more attention to himself, and immediately froze when a deer’s head poked out of the bushes. A-Qiao made a joyful sound at the sight of the masters and hurried to the table to beg for a treat. Shen Qiao became even more embarrassed, realizing that he was afraid of the deer, and lowered his head under Yan Wushi’s mocking gaze. The Huanyue sect leader pulled his lover closer to him, ignoring how the deer stole a piece of apple from the table. “Shengyan, you don’t have to hide anymore,” he suddenly called, and after the pet, Yu Shengyan came out uncertainly from the dense vegetation of the garden. He didn’t want to embarrass Shen Qiao, but he couldn’t disobey the shizun’s order either. The second disciple of the Huanyue sect stepped closer and politely bowed before the senior masters. “I hope you have something important,” Yan Wushi said, as if he was unhappy with the appearance of his disciple, but he brazenly hugged Shen Qiao, who was still embarrassed but accepted his fate. “Shizun, I followed Zheng Chao Manor as you requested,” he reported, still bowing his head. “The captives have just been released without being handed over to the guards.” Shen Qiao roused himself in Yan Wushi’s arms upon hearing this news. Zheng Chao promised to hand over the mercenaries to the guards, and now he let them go. Doubts crept into the mind of the Xuandu Mountain leader’s mind. Yet Yan Wushi was too often right about human nature, calling Shen Qiao naïve. He himself understood this, but he always gave people a chance to prove the opposite. Could it be that Zheng Chao could really be responsible for yesterday’s attack? “How did it happen?” Shen Qiao asked, completely forgetting his own embarrassment. “The sect paid the deposit for them,” Yu Shengyan immediately replied, still bowing his head so as not to fall inadvertently out of favor with the shizun for the wrong look. He seemed to be bored, no longer paying attention to his disciple at all, and teasing the deer with one hand. The animal wanted to eat the offered fruit, but Yan Wushi removed the treat at the very last moment, forcing him to stretch again and again. “How could a little known sect raise enough money to bail out their own disciples?” Shen Qiao was surprised, casting a reproachful glance at his sweetheart so that he would not mock the deer. “Shen-zhangjiao considers Hehuan a little-known sect?” Yu Shengyan was surprised in response. Now he stood, riveted to the spot with two glances. Shen Qiao was surprised but thoughtful, while Yan Wushi was smiling. Yu Shengyan could hardly restrain himself from swallowing nervously. This smile promised him eternal torment. “Hehuan did not help even the change of leader,” Yan Wushi sneered contemptuously, giving the deer its treat. He got bored with teasing A-Qiao instantly. “Bai Rong takes into the sect all the same weaklings as before. Is there any other news?” Yu Shengyan bowed respectfully again, even lower than before. “This disciple has nothing more to say,” he replied, not so cheerfully, hurriedly running away as soon as he received permission from the shizun to go. Yan Wushi smirked at Shen Qiao’s gaze as he calmly leaned back on the bench covered with embroidered bedspreads and pillows. In his hand was immediately a cup of wine. “If you want to ask why I didn’t tell you about Hehuan, then the answer is very simple.” he spoke, savoring the drink and pulling Shen Qiao, who had moved away, towards him. “You wouldn’t be interested in investigating this case.” ‘Or you wouldn’t be interested in watching me investigate it,’ Shen Qiao thought and didn’t open his mouth again until the evening, ignoring all of Yan Wushi’s attempts to talk to him. And the Huanyue sect leader, who received the ignoring, needed to vent his anger on someone, so Yu Shengyan, through the bad will of his teacher, again went to train at Bianbu Peak. * After the ill-fated banquet, the news that Shen Qiao had rescued the official spread throughout the Imperial Court and naturally reached the Emperor himself. Shen Qiao received an invitation to visit the palace from the Emperors’s servant, beautifully packaged in an envelope with the imperial seal. “This venerable one is forced to leave you without company,” Yan Wushi stated upon seeing the letter from Yang Jian as they sat in the restroom. “There are a few things I need to do.” The Huanyue sect leader thoughtfully turned the weiqi stone in his fingers before placing it on the board among the same ones. He, as always, led some kind of strategy, both in the game and in life, and Shen Qiao had to figure out what move he would make next. During his entire stay in Chang’an, Yan Wushi practically did not leave him alone, following him everywhere, but then he suddenly referred to business. Lazily lounging on soft pillows on the floor, the leader of the Huanyue sect did not seem busy. The Emperor’s reception was cordial. Yang Jian remembered the kindness with which Shen Qiao treated him even before he ascended the throne, so despite his title, he addressed the savior of the family with respect. Shen Qiao was glad to see the Emperor in good health and have a pleasant conversation with him. The Son of Heaven even asked his guest for advice in state affairs, aware of Shen Qiao’s extraordinary mind and piety. “This humble daoist does not dare to impose his opinion on Your Majesty,” Shen Qiao politely refused, bowing. Only the Emperor can know how to manage his own affairs, for he is favored by Heaven itself. “Then maybe Shen-zhangjiao would like to attend the meeting of the Council?” the Emperor made another offer, and Shen Qiao could not refuse a second time. But the closer they were to the main hall, the more audible were other people’s voices. People did not hold back, raising their intonation, which made it look like a marketplace in the midst of trading. Yang Jian frowned and quickened his pace, finally entering the hall through the entrance intended for him, letting Shen Qiao in as well. A fight was clearly going on among the officials present, as if they were rootless vagabonds sharing the last piece of bread. Several of them surrounded someone from different sides, so that nothing could be seen because of their backs. “Take the responsibility to explain to Us what is going on here.” The angry voice of the Emperor silenced everyone and parted to turn their eyes to His Majesty. In the center of this crowd was Wang Yunxue, frozen under the unexpected and close attention of the Emperor. Shen Qiao shifted his gaze from him to the person standing next to him. Bian Yanmei was also staring at him, holding Minister Wang’s hand tightly while holding a small jade vessel in the other. He nodded slightly in greeting, but Shen Qiao did not reveal Yan Wushi’s senior disciple, realizing that he continued to serve at the court at the behest of his shizun. “Minister Wang brought poison with him to the Council,” the first official immediately answered, respectfully bending before the Emperor in a low bow. “He was going to mix it discreetly into Councilor Zheng’s food,” the second official picked up his explanation, repeating his gesture. Shen Qiao carefully looked at these people. In such a short time, two of his acquaintances have already experienced the second case that threatens their lives and reputation. This could no longer be a mere coincidence. “Your Imperial Majesty, this is not true!” Wang Yunxue exclaimed, breaking free from Bian Yanmei’s grip and falling to his knees in front of the Emperor. “I caught your red-handed when you were about to sneak something into Minister Zheng’s food,” Bian Yanmei replied coldly, his teacher’s familiar intonation flickering in his voice. Yan Wushi taught his disciples not only the art of combat but also the art of masterfully humiliating the enemy. Although they will never surpass their shizun in this. “Your Majesty, please judge between us,” Zheng Chao, who had been silent from shock, took part in the conversation, daring to ask the Emperor for a favor. “Only you can judge honestly and impartially.” The officials nodded approvingly, talking in undertones among themselves and bowing their heads to Yang Jian. The emperor sat down on his throne, gesturing for Shen Qiao to take the seat beside him. “Bring Gao Rong,” His Majesty ordered, and one of his servants immediately disappeared to fulfill his will. The person turned out to be a court eunuch who was checking the Emperor’s food for poisons. He immediately set to work, taking a jade vial from Bian Yanmei’s hands and pouring its contents into a bowl. Silver plates, which he deftly wielded, tinkled in his fingers, while he lowered them into a dangerous mixture under the watchful eyes of the ministers. “Your Majesty, this insignificant one dares to claim that there is poison in this vial,” Gao Rong finally delivered a verdict, showing everyone the results of his test. There was another whisper among the officials. “I was tricked!” Wang Yunxue exclaimed again upon hearing the words of the eunuch. His gaze immediately fell on Shen Qiao, who had been silent all this time, and the adviser, forgetting about his status, crawled forward on his knees. “Shen-zhangjiao, you saved me from the attack that time! Trust me, someone is hard at work trying to eliminate me again!” But Shen Qiao’s eyes already showed doubts. He still tended to trust Bian Yanmei more, who, under the fear of reprisals from his own shizun, would not dare to harm Shen Qiao. In addition, Wang Yunxue was caught red-handed in front of the entire Council, which also only added to the suspicion. “Sorry, Minister Wang, but His Majesty will have the last word,” Shen Qiao replied, not wanting to interfere in the affairs of the Imperial Court. “Take him into custody,” ordered Yang Jian, passing the verdict. Wang Yunxue’s face twisted with a mixture of anger and despair, and he glared at Zheng Chao angrily. “It’s all your fault!” he hissed, pursing his lips in an evil grimace. “If it weren’t for you, this position would have gone to me! I worked for so many years trying to get it, but then you showed up and took it!” After spitting out those words, Wang Yunxue jumped to his feet with extraordinary agility and rushed to the exit of the main hall as quickly as if he wielded qingong. The desire to save himself from punishment took precedence over common sense, and he ran with all his might. A dark shadow darted towards him, and in the next moment, Wang Yunxue’s painful scream was heard. Bian Yanmei held the fugitive’s hand, twisting it painfully behind his back. His expression was impassive, but Shen Qiao knew he did it on purpose, as a warning to the delinquent minister. The guards who came to the court took Wang Yunxue from Bian Yanmei’s hands, leading the swearing official away through painful groans. “I’m sorry that you had to watch this scene during your visit, Shen-zhangjiao,” the Emperor addressed Shen Qiao when the screams subsided, and all the advisers dispersed on his orders. “It’s all right, Your Majesty,” Shen Qiao replied as he stood up and folded his hands in a bow. “But this humble daoist can no longer abuse your hospitality.” In the Emperor’s Palace corridor, he caught up with Bian Yanmei, who seemed to be in no particular hurry to leave. “Bian-gongzi, thank you for preventing the murder from happening,” Shen Qiao thanked Yan Wushi’s senior Disciple. “It’s good that you made it on time.” Bian Yanmei greeted Shen Qiao in a normal etiquette way. After all the events of the past, his respect only increased, and Bian Yanmei felt reverence for the person who could not only return to the top of his skill but also win Yan Wushi’s cynical heart. “I followed shizun’s orders,” he replied as they walked out of the palace together. “He told me to keep an eye on Wang Yunxue.” It turns out that both Yan Wushi’s disciples were spying on the two ministers. The Huanyue sect leader’s ability to quickly and accurately determine the political situation was as impressive as ever. Where there were intrigues, there he was. Shen Qiao just mentally sighed. “I would venture to suggest that the attack on Minister Zheng’s manor was also staged by Councilor Wang,” he said, already confident in his own right. Bian Yanmei nodded. “He paid the Hehuan disciples, bypassing their elders, to stage his kidnapping and frame Zheng Chao,” he explained, confirming Shen Qiao’s words. “And then he was going to take his position while he was in prison. But after the failure, he despaired and began to act recklessly, looking for books about poisons in the palace library, and then visited the pharmacy.” After this conversation, the interlocutors reached the exit, and here their paths were to part. Bian Yanmei had to go back to his business, while Shen Qiao was about to head back to the Huanyue Manor. “Thank you for shedding light on this matter,” Shen Qiao bowed politely, and Bian Yanmei was once again amazed at how sincere and humble this Daoist was. “It was nice to meet you again, Shen-zhangjiao”, he answered, saying goodbye, and disappeared behind the gates of the palace. * Shen Qiao founded Yan Wushi on the terrace of the manor with a scroll of wooden planks in his hands. He lay imposingly among the small embroidered cushions on a bench in the shade of an awning, enjoying an idle pastime more than reading. “A-Qiao, you’re back.” A sly smile played on his lips as he put the scroll aside. “I hope I haven’t missed anything interesting.” The Huanyue sect leader was openly amused, and Shen Qiao wanted immediately to turn around and leave. But Yan Wushi turned out to be more agile, catching him by the hand and pull him to his bench. A few hits on the acupuncture points and Shen Qiao could no longer escape. “You knew everything,” he said distantly, more asserting than asking. It was clear the leader of the Huanyue sect was aware of everything that was happening. “Of course,” Yan Wushi smiled even wider, affectionately stroking the handsome face of his lover. Shen Qiao defiantly turned away, dissatisfied with the restriction of movement. “This venerable one did not in vain to dissuade you from attending the banquet. I knew that my noble A-Qiao can’t stay away.” The Huanyue sect leader was not at all offended by such a gesture. He kissed his temple, slightly delaying the touch of his lips to smooth skin. “You are so stubborn, A-Qiao, how could I argue with you?” he complained, but his smirk, tickling his temple, said that he was pleased with everything. Shen Qiao mentally rolled his eyes. “Looks like staying too long on Mount Xuandu is having a detrimental effect on you. You again forgot what harmless-looking people can actually be.” Shen Qiao fixed an angry gaze on Yan Wushi, but he immediately became deflated and embarrassed, noticing his affection, but not without a hint of mockery. Seeing that Shen Qiao’s outrage was gradually subsiding, he gave him back the ability to move. Graceful palms immediately rested on his chest, winning back a fraction of personal space. “Speaking of which,” Yan Wushi casually recalled as he observed Shen Qiao through his eyelashes. “Looks like this venerable one won our little bet.” Shen Qiao watched Yan Wushi’s lips slowly stretch into an anticipated smile and felt his cheeks flush. His unpredictable lover could come up with anything, and that would definitely make Shen Qiao even more embarrassed. “What does the head of Yan want for the victory?” he muttered, hiding his eyes, embarrassed from his own thoughts, behind his eyelashes. “Why are you so formal?” Yan Wushi drawled, bowing his head and raising an ironic eyebrow. “Are you angry that I was right, since you don’t want to call me Yan-lang?” Shen Qiao looked up in surprise at the leader of the Huanyue sect. “Is that your wish?” he asked, brow furrowing slightly in confusion. Yan Wushi teased as always, deliberately going around the bush. “Of course not, A-Qiao,” he laughed, unable to restrain himself and mockingly kissed Shen Qiao on the nose. “This I can achieve without spending my prize. I came up with something more interesting.” His meaningful smile made Shen Qiao uneasy, placing his hands on his chest even more, ready to fight back. “You promised it would be within a decent range,” he hurriedly reminded with a burning face, from which Yan Wushi burst out laughing again. “Shen-daozang looks so righteous, but in his thoughts there are only obscenities,” he teased, immediately squeezing Shen Qiao, who was about to break free, in his arms and adding more seriously: “This venerable one keeps his word. And now you promise me that while you are here, we will spend all this time only together.” Hearing this, Shen Qiao immediately stopped struggling, staring at Yan Wushi as if he had suddenly grown a second head. Once again, he was convinced how unpredictable that man could be in any situation. Yan Wushi looked at him expectantly, giving him time to comprehend his words and not rushing. Shen Qiao lowered his head, unconsciously crumpling the thin silk of home robes on the chest of the Huanyue sect leader with his fingers. “I promise, Yan-lang,” he said quietly, overcoming his embarrassment, before sinking into a pile of soft pillows in Yan Wushi’s arms with an involuntary yelp.