Xue Tuzi narrowed his eyes, watching as Li Zhameng exited Xue Laohu's room, his cheerful demeanor lingering in the air long after he had disappeared down the corridor. With deliberate steps, Xue Tuzi approached the room and pushed the door open, the subtle creak breaking the stillness within. The soothing fragrance of freshly brewed tea immediately greeted him, curling in the air like an unspoken invitation.
Inside, Xue Laohu sat composed at the low wooden table, his movements measured as he lifted a porcelain cup of steaming tea to his lips. He hesitated for a moment before taking a cautious sip, the memory of Sect Leader Mao's repeated scalding incidents etched in his mind. A flicker of amusement crossed his face at the thought, quickly replaced by his usual composed demeanor.
Hearing the door click shut, Xue Laohu turned his steady gaze toward his disciple. Xue Tuzi stood by the closed door, his hands cupped as he offered a respectful bow. Xue Laohu exhaled softly, setting the tea down with a quiet clink. With a gesture toward the chair opposite him, he said, "Please, take a seat."
Xue Tuzi moved gracefully, his steps almost soundless as he crossed the room. He lowered himself into the offered seat, his sharp eyes flicking momentarily to his Shizun. Xue Laohu reached for the teapot, the delicate blue and white ceramic glinting faintly in the soft light. He poured a fresh cup of tea, sliding it toward Xue Tuzi.
"Careful, it's hot," Xue Laohu said, his tone calm but firm. Clearing his throat, he shifted slightly, his usually jovial aura giving way to something heavier, more commanding. His sharp eyes, once soft with warmth, now bore the weight of unspoken intentions as they fixed on his disciple.
Xue Tuzi lifted the cup with careful hands, his movements unhurried. The steam curled lazily toward his face, a faint warmth brushing against his skin as he brought the rim to his lips. His eyes remained steady, watching his Shizun intently, silently gauging every shift of expression, every subtle nuance. Though his posture was relaxed, there was a quiet alertness about him.
Xue Laohu ran his fingers through his hair, brushing his wispy bangs back in an attempt to steady his nerves. His heart thudded louder with each passing second until he finally blurted out, "So… has anyone caught your fancy?" The words tumbled from his lips clumsily, and he immediately regretted them. Snapping open his intricately carved fan, he fanned himself furiously, hiding his flushed face behind its patterned surface. I can't believe I just asked that, he thought, a nervous gulp following his internal chastisement.
Xue Tuzi's eyes lowered, his thick lashes casting soft shadows against his cheeks. Placing his teacup down with deliberate care, a faint, teasing smile tugged at the corners of his lips. "Why would Shizun ask such a question?" he inquired, his voice calm, almost indulgent, as his fingers lingered on the porcelain rim.
Sweat dotted Xue Laohu's brow. He waved his fan more vigorously, letting out an awkward chuckle. "Oh, well… you're at that age, you know." His tone was light, but his thoughts betrayed him. Why is Xue Tuzi so difficult to talk to? he lamented silently, his gaze darting around the room as if seeking an escape. He's so intimidating, and my patience with this story is running thin.
Steeling himself, Xue Laohu abruptly shut his fan with a sharp snap. His expression shifted, feigning composure as he leaned forward slightly. "So, tell me," he began, his tone firmer now, "what is it that you look for in a lover?" He traced his fingers along the table's edge, determined to see this conversation through.
Xue Tuzi's reaction was swift. His eyes flickered from the teacup to his Shizun's face, startled by the boldness of the question. He cocked an eyebrow, his lips pressing into a thin line. "Why does Shizun want to know?" he asked, narrowing his eyes slightly as he leaned closer to the table, the distance between them shrinking.
Xue Laohu, refusing to back down, propped his elbow on the table and rested his cheek against his hand. With a pout that only added to his exasperated charm, he asked unabashedly, "What do you think of Shudu?" His tone carried urgency, his finger tapping against the wood like an impatient drumbeat.
Xue Tuzi's response was as cold as it was curt. "I don't like bugs," he said sharply, the corners of his mouth tugging downward ever so slightly.
"I see…" Xue Laohu sighed, slumping back into his chair. He ran a hand over his face, trying to hide his disappointment.
But Xue Tuzi wasn't finished. His voice dropped, tinged with something almost possessive. "Is he Shizun's type?" he asked, his tone carrying a note of jealousy that hung heavily in the air.
Caught off guard, Xue Laohu straightened in his seat, nervously smoothing the edge of his sleeve. "Well… he's definitely handsome," he admitted hesitantly, his words faltering as he noticed Xue Tuzi's eyebrow arching higher.
"And?" Xue Tuzi pressed, his full lips pushing into a pout, his gaze piercing as he awaited a more complete answer.
"Well," Xue Laohu continued, fumbling under the scrutiny, "he's strong, tall, and has a lot of bravado. But…" His voice softened, the tension in his shoulders easing. "He's not my type."
Xue Tuzi's sharp expression softened slightly at that. A flicker of satisfaction crossed his features as he picked up his teacup once more, his fingers curling gracefully around it. He took a long, measured sip, a single drop escaping to trail down the edge of his lip, catching on the delicate mole nestled there.
Setting the cup down, his eyes locked with Xue Laohu's, his gaze steady and probing. "So," he murmured, his voice low but insistent, "what is Shizun's type?"
"My type? Hmm… let me think." Xue Laohu frowned, placing a hand on his chin as if the weight of his thoughts could anchor the scattered pieces of his past. His brows furrowed, his lips pressed into a line, and for a fleeting moment, a wistful glaze overtook his eyes. The truth stung—he had died a virgin, never once taking anyone on a proper date. The mere thought of it brought an ache to his chest.
His current body was that of a thousand-plus year old grandmaster, unmatched in cultivation, yet entirely untouched by romance. The irony wasn't lost on him. Just my luck, he thought bitterly. Still, as he delved deeper, a soft smile curved his lips. "If I had to describe my type…" He paused for dramatic effect, his tone lightening as if brushing away the years of solitude. "I'd say I'm into someone fiery. A spirited personality. Cute face, round lips, curly locks… Oh, and if they can cook and clean, that would be a nice bonus." His grin widened as he spoke, revealing a dazzling set of pearly whites, his confidence returning in full force.
Across the table, Xue Tuzi's composure faltered. At the mention of round lips and curly locks, his hand instinctively rose to touch his own lips before sliding down to his wavy hair. His cheeks warmed, the faintest blush creeping across his sharp features.
"Oh, and," Xue Laohu added, seemingly oblivious to his disciple's reaction, "they can't be taller than me." He chuckled, his tone playful, as if the preference was simply a non-negotiable law of the universe.
Xue Tuzi's gaze shifted, subtle and calculating. He bit down on his lips, deep in thought. Meng Meng can't cook. He can barely clean. He's slightly taller than Shizun, and he's as meek and docile. Which means… His lips curved into a knowing smile, the tiny mole below them stretching slightly with the motion. I am Shizun's type.
Xue Laohu, still caught up in his musings, leaned forward with an eager gleam in his eye. "I told you mine. So, what about you? What's your type?"
Xue Tuzi hesitated for only a moment before leaning forward, his movements deliberate and fluid. His lashes fluttered, casting soft shadows on his cheeks, as he brought himself closer to Xue Laohu. His voice, low and velvety, carried a touch of playful warmth. "My type is striking, modest, and sincere. A charismatic person who will be gentle with me."
The words lingered in the air like a delicate melody, but Xue Laohu's mind raced elsewhere. Striking? Modest? Charismatic? A certain someone's image immediately leapt to mind. Shudu.
Shudu, with his chiseled form seemingly sculpted by the heavens, was undeniably strikingly good looking. Modest, rarely indulging in riches, his humble beginnings as a demon lent him an earthy charm. Charismatic? Without question. Shudu could make even the coldest heart swoon with his smooth words.
Xue Laohu's brows furrowed in thought. How could Xue Tuzi be so blind? The man he's describing is clearly Shudu. He's right there, so obvious…
But before Xue Laohu could finish his mental spiral, the gentle brush of fingers against his face snapped him out of it. Xue Tuzi's fingertips lingered for just a moment, the touch electrifying, as his soft voice broke the silence. "Shizun," he murmured, "what are you thinking about?"
Startled, Xue Laohu jolted upright, his hand flying to his cheek as if to shield it. "Ah! That is all. You're dismissed!" he blurted, his voice pitched slightly higher than intended.
Xue Tuzi rose gracefully, cupping his hands in a formal bow. Yet, as he turned to leave, he stole one last glance at Xue Laohu. His Shizun was slumped back in his chair, fanning his face with his fan, blowing air up at his disheveled bangs in a futile attempt to regain composure.
A small smile tugged at Xue Tuzi's lips as he departed, the sound of his steps fading into the corridor.
Night had fallen over Mount Dingbu, casting the mountain in a serene, shadowy glow. The stars glittered like shards of ice in the dark expanse above, and the faint chirping of nocturnal creatures filled the crisp air. Xue Tuzi returned to his room after a long, soothing bath, his damp hair clinging to his shoulders as the scent of herbal oils lingered faintly around him.
Sliding the door open, he froze mid-step, his sharp eyes narrowing as they landed on an unwelcome sight. There, sprawled across his neatly made bed, was Shudu, fast asleep, his limbs tangled in the silken sheets. Xue Tuzi's brows twitched, and his jaw tightened. Anger flared within him.
"Get out!" he barked, his voice sharp enough to pierce the tranquil night. Grabbing the edge of the sheets, he yanked them away with force, exposing Shudu's half-clad figure.
Shudu let out a low groan, yawning languidly as he stretched his muscular arms above his head. His movements were unhurried, like a predator napping after a feast. Instead of leaving, he turned over lazily, curling into a ball and completely ignoring Xue Tuzi's furious glare.
Above them, Xiao Zongzi, the little spider who had taken residence in the corner of the room, had spun a web as intricate as the constellations outside. She dangled elegantly from a thread, her sharp legs poised to claim the moth she had trapped earlier. But her quiet hunt was rudely interrupted by the bickering below.
"Vermin!" Xue Tuzi snapped, his frustration mounting. He leaned over the bed, shoving at the demon's shoulders with growing force. "Get off my bed!"
Shudu frowned but made no move to comply. Instead, he reached up, his hands closing around Xue Tuzi's wrists with deliberate gentleness, halting the relentless shoves. His voice was soft, almost teasing, as he asked, "What happened to that sweet little bunny?"
Xue Tuzi stilled for a moment, his eyes narrowing further as his lips curled into a frown. "He's dead," he said coldly, venom dripping from his words as he yanked his hands free from Shudu's grasp.
Shudu tilted his head, his expression turning mockingly somber. "Who killed him?" he asked, his deep, honeyed voice dropping to a near whisper. His eyes locked onto Xue Tuzi's, the faintest trace of genuine curiosity shimmering beneath his usual smugness.
"You did," Xue Tuzi replied, his voice sharp and unwavering, like the crack of a whip.
Without warning, Shudu leaned forward, pinning Xue Tuzi beneath him with his sheer weight and strength. His gaze darkened, his lips curling into a sly smirk. "I don't remember killing a bunny," he murmured, his voice dripping with feigned innocence. Lowering his head, he buried his nose in the crook of Xue Tuzi's neck, inhaling deeply.
Xue Tuzi stiffened, his body going rigid as he felt the warm gusts of Shudu's breath against his skin. He struggled against the hold, his muscles straining, but Shudu remained unmoving.
"This scent…" Shudu murmured, his voice a low rumble that sent a shiver down Xue Tuzi's spine. "It's intoxicating. Are you trying to seduce me?" His lips brushed lightly against the delicate skin of Xue Tuzi's neck before trailing lower, pressing against the graceful curve of his collarbone.
Xue Tuzi's patience snapped. His hand shot up, delivering a sharp slap to Shudu's face. The sound echoed through the room, sharp and unforgiving. "You repulse me!" Xue Tuzi snarled, his voice laced with venom. He struck again, his palm meeting Shudu's cheek with even more force. "I don't like bugs in my bed!"
Shudu blinked, momentarily stunned, but his smirk never faltered.
"Why would I ever want to seduce an insect?" Xue Tuzi spat, his words cutting deep as he shoved Shudu off the bed with all his strength.
With a loud thud, Shudu hit the floor. He winced, rubbing the back of his head as he sat up, his expression a mix of irritation and amusement. Undeterred, he made a move to climb back onto the bed, only to be stopped by Xue Tuzi's bare foot pressing firmly against his cheek.
"Stay down," Xue Tuzi ordered, his tone icy and commanding.
Shudu, however, seized the opportunity, his hand closing around Xue Tuzi's ankle. With a swift motion, he lifted the delicate leg, his fingers curling possessively around it. His predatory gaze roamed upward, taking in every inch of exposed skin, until his eyes rested on the faint outline of Xue Tuzi's form beneath the loose folds of his robes.
"Why do you never wear anything under your robes?" Shudu asked, his voice low and rough, a hint of mischief glinting in his eyes. His thumb brushed lightly against Xue Tuzi's ankle as his gaze darkened further. "It's almost as if you're enticing me."
Xue Tuzi's breath hitched as Shudu's eyes lingered on the faintly visible pink bud inbetween his legs that hid under a pair of dumplings. The dim candlelight flickered, casting shadows that only seemed to heighten the tension in the room.
Xue Tuzi, flustered and brimming with frustration, pulled himself up in one swift motion and slammed his fist down on Shudu's head. The sound was a sharp, satisfying thud, forcing the demon to release his grip on Xue Tuzi's foot.
"Why won't you leave me alone?!" Xue Tuzi exclaimed, his voice carrying a mixture of exasperation and weariness. Without waiting for a response, he retreated, cocooning himself tightly in the bed sheets like a stubborn child refusing to face the world.
Unfazed, Shudu climbed back onto the bed with the fluid grace of a predator. The candlelight highlighted the sharp contours of his bare chest, the faint gleam of his toned muscles making his presence impossible to ignore. Leaning down, he pressed his chest against the bundle of sheets that concealed Xue Tuzi.
"Let me have a taste," he murmured, his voice a seductive whisper as his finger traced the delicate curve of Xue Tuzi's face through the fabric.
"No!" Xue Tuzi's muffled protest emerged from under the sheets, his brows furrowed in defiance. He squeezed his eyes shut and turned his back on Shudu, digging himself deeper into his makeshift sanctuary.
Shudu's lips curled into a smirk, his sharp canines glinting faintly. "Why not?" he teased, his tone dripping with mock innocence. "It's not like I haven't had it before." His tongue flicked over his lips as his piercing eyes remained fixed on the figure buried beneath the sheets.
But Xue Tuzi refused to respond, his silence a shield against the demon's unrelenting advances.
Letting out a deep, theatrical sigh, Shudu leaned back, propping himself up on one arm. "You're lucky," he said, his voice taking on a slightly darker edge. "Any other demon would've forced their way by now."
From under the sheets, a faint "Hmph" escaped Xue Tuzi's lips, a sound filled with irritation and disdain. His unfortunate situation had become an unwelcome routine—night after night, Shudu would try to seduce him, only to be met with rejection as swift and decisive as a blade. And yet, despite his persistence, Shudu never crossed that final, unforgivable line.
The bed creaked as Shudu shifted closer, his breath warm against the fabric near Xue Tuzi's ear. "I'll wait for you," he whispered, his voice low and possessive, like a promise and a threat intertwined. "At dawn, in my arms, little bunny."
Xue Tuzi opened his eyes briefly, his expression one of pure annoyance. With a dramatic roll of his eyes, he refused to dignify Shudu's words with a response.
Satisfied with his nightly taunt, Shudu leaned back and reached for the candles, snuffing them out with a single, lazy gust of wind. Darkness enveloped the room, save for the faint silver glow of the stars seeping through the cracks in the windows.
As Shudu settled down beside him, the demon made no move to cover himself with sheets or blankets, lying there bare against the cool night air. The room grew quiet, save for the rhythmic sound of their breathing.
Xue Tuzi, buried under his protective cocoon, clenched his fists beneath the covers. Every fiber of his being was determined to resist the demon's provocations, yet a small part of him wondered how much longer this nightly dance of defiance and temptation would continue.