A/NÂ a longer chapter yayy~~ 3.5k words <3
Imperial bodyguards were, in a sense, superior to the ordinary guards within the imperial palace. Although the quality of men selected to work as soldiers in the palace were high, there was inevitably still bribery and backdoor enlistments from nobles and other wealthy families. With imperial bodyguards, it was different. As direct protectors of the members of the royal family, the physical and temperamental requirements had to be superior. Indeed, Liu Qingyuan fit those requirements but it was still luck from heaven that allowed his forged document to pass inspection.
After performing in his post for several months, his authority had gradually risen. He and the king had a tactful understanding and inevitably, there were people who wanted to break this understanding before the pair became invincible to the ulterior motives of court motives. Thus, Liu Qingyuan was selected to escort the distribution of disaster relief materials. Although an imperial bodyguard must not leave their client's side, the king himself was eventually won over (albeit reluctantly) with the fact that he trusted Liu Qingyaun wouldn't embezzle anything, as well as the fact that he was simply the best in terms of skills. Even so, there was still a sense of uncomfortableness.
"...en." Liu Qingyuan bowed, receiving the order. Although he did not voice it, a moment was enough for his slight hesitation and surprise to be caught by the king. In all reality, he hadn't thought that the king would allow it. Jiang Zhilan looked up from his work, and stared for a few seconds. In the low-lit study, two gazes clashed and after a long while, gradually heated up.
Liu Qingyuan looked away first, gaze flicking back as Jiang Zhilan smiled, setting down his brush and propping a hand on his cheek. "It can't be that you're afraid you'll miss me terribly, could it?"
"..."
Faced with his impassive face, the king sighed, raising his arms above his head to stretch. The cool air flooded to his body and he hastily dropped his arms, the thick and fur lined outer robe falling back into place around his body and creating a bubble of warmth. "Oh that's cold."
"Do you want me to request for more oil?*" Jiang Zhilan waved a hand.
(*for lamps)
"It's alright. It's getting late." Although it had not yet snowed, the wind howled fiercely, bringing with it the promise of a bitter winter. Jiang Zhilan gazed out the window. His previous enactment of the disaster relief plan had been postponed because of his untimely disappearance last time. Now looking at the foreboding winter to come, Jiang Zhilan was anxious to deliver the relief supplies to those still suffering from effects of the summer drought. The king turned his gaze back to the stoic guard beside him. He reached out, directly taking his hand.
Liu Qingyuan stiffened at first, but unconsciously tightened his hand. The king's hand was slender and jade-like, ice cold to the touch. Liu Qingyuan frowned. Wrapped in a mink coat and still this cold? He would have to get people to increase the amount of oil burned at night, or at least wrap up the king in more layers. "You should wear more."
Jiang Zhilan looked at him incredulously while tugging on his collar. He had so many layers around his neck, he felt like he was going to suffocate! He clung to Liu Qingyuan's hand. "Actually...I also don't want you to go. The quickest path to the southern villages is through the ice* valley. What if a snowslide happens?"
(*if y'all have a better name, plz feel free to suggest)
Liu Qingyuan paused then, "Are you cursing me?" Jiang Zhilan looked up, startled.
"Pei, pei, pei!*" The king quickly patted his mouth and Liu Qingyuan almost laughed out loud, his mirth shown in the glisten of his eyes and the slight curve of his mouth. Jiang Zhilan shot him a glare. "Don't say that! I was wrong!" Feeling a sudden urge, Liu Qingyuan leaned over slowly, grabbing the armchair's arm to support himself.
(*spitting noise)
"Where were you wrong?" He asked lowly, a hint of teasing in his tone. Jiang Zhilan swallowed slightly, red slowly creeping up his neck. His gaze flickered down and he suddenly reached up, wrapping his arms around Liu Qingyuan's neck. Neither party could retreat.
"I was wrong," Jiang Zhilan's tone was slightly sticky and Liu Qingyuan vaguely felt that his heart was itchy. "Qingyuan..." After hesitating for a moment, Liu Qingyuan closed the remaining distance, pressing his lips onto the king's. The two embraced for a while before Jiang Zhilan pulled back, lips red.
"I really want to come with you."
"It's too dangerous."
"Aren't we both men? What's dangerous for you, isn't it the same for me?" Jiang Zhilan was a little upset. Liu Qingyuan paused, tucking a piece of hair behind his ear.
"You're the King of Qiangda. If something happens to you..."
"I...I want to be selfish," Jiang Zhilan mumbled nearly inaudibly. He sighed deeply. With his abilities, he trusted Liu Qingyuan to deliver the disaster relief supplies. Others would just embezzle the grain for themselves. Besides, with himself unable to personally deliver the supplies, Liu Qingyuan can be partially seen as representative of the king.
"Hmm?" Liu Qingyuan hadn't heard him properly and made a noise of inquiry.
"Just...when do you leave?"
"Tomorrow." 'So early.' Jiang Zhilan lamented in his heart. Although Liu Qingyuan's escort wasn't the only group that would be distributing the supplies, they ultimately had the largest responsibility. Within Qiangda's borders, it's capital was located slightly to the north. Smaller groups would be responsible for the distribution of supplies to the east, west and north of the capital, while Liu Qingyuan's group would head south. The south-eastern border was also shared with Gongzhuan...With the largest area to cover, the trip would inevitably take two to three months; that is, if there were not extraneous variables. Jiang Zhilan felt a pain in his heart from the thought.
"I'll be back before you know it. So make sure you sleep enough and stop staying up. Eat well, dress warmly and don't forget to take breaks." Although the words were a little awkward, they carried heartfelt sincerity.
"When did you turn into my nanny?"
"..." Liu Qingyuan felt more awkward. Jiang Zhilan saw his uncertain face and quickly hugged his waist. "Your majesty-"
"Thank you. You...you definitely have to come back on time. If you...if you dare play outside, we'll see if I'll come punish you!" Liu Qingyuan felt warm in his heart.
"Yes, yes. You can hit me."
"Who wants to hit you?!" Liu Qingyuan leaned forward again, his tone turning lower.
"Then...how will you punish me?" Jiang Zhilan paused, feeling faintly that something wasn't right. When his brain caught up, red exploded across his face and he pushed Liu Qingyuan away.
"I'll beat you to death!" Although the push didn't move him, Liu Qingyuan still took a step back to let the king save face*.
(*face refers to dignity)
"What are you thinking?" Liu Qingyuan asked, slightly amused. Jiang Zhilan paused again, cursing internally. Stepping in the trap once meant he'd been beaten, but twice meant he was a fool.
"Not talking anymore!" He turned back to his documents but found that he couldn't focus. "Let's just go to sleep." The king paused. "I meant, I'm going to bed!" Before Liu Qingyuan could even open his mouth, the king had fled without a trace of his shadow.
âââââ
Two Months Later
Liu Qingyuan's upright figure was striking as he squinted up at the sun. Although it was bright, the day was far from warm. Knowing martial arts made one's body temperature slightly higher, but even then, Liu Qingyuan donned a light cloak. A sudden package was shoved into his arms.
"Young man, you are still young, you should take these snacks and share them with your men." A stout little aunty stood in front of Liu Qingyuan, smiling toothily at him. She patted his arm reassuringly.
"...Aunty, I can't accept these. You should save your food for the coming winter." Liu Qingyuan tried to give it back to her but she pushed his arm away.
"Aiyo! I'm not so poor that I can't afford to give you these! The king is benevolent-ah." She glanced around at the carts that were full of grain. "Take it as a token of gratitude and give the king some if you can!" Liu Qingyuan glanced uncertainly at the sack in his hands. Although the aunty was likely joking (not many had the opportunity to see the king personally, especially those not in the capital), Liu Qingyuan couldn't help but think of the king. It was too bad. It'd be too long until he'd return and the food would have spoiled.
"Mom! Mom!" A shrill voice suddenly rang out and a pretty girl came running around the corner. Although this location was a village, it wasn't a small one, therefore the girl was still dressed in bright collared robes, a few ribbons in her hair. Panting, she caught up and grabbed the aunty's arm. "Mom! I told you not to run around. There's so many soldiers..." She trailed off as she registered the presence of Liu Qingyuan. "D-daren..." Although he was handsome, his cold expression and the armour on his body created an air of seriousness and detachment that people far outside of the capital had yet to encounter. Especially as an imperial soldier, he carried a sense of myth from being a part of the court that contained the king whom many worshipped as a deity. "This little girl will excuse us now." Liu Qingyuan slightly inclined his head, watching as the old aunty was pulled away.
"Duizhang*." Liu Qingyuan turned his head. "All the grain and supplies have been accounted for."
(*captain)
"Mm. Allot the grain and oil to each household and distribute the winter clothes at the main square."
"Yes sir!" The vice-captain saluted to Liu Qingyuan. "I will definitely do a good job!"
"En." The vice-captain turned away, immediately issuing orders to the men around him and directing the flow of carts. Liu Qingyuan sent a precautionary glance around then headed for the mayor's residence.
âââââ
In the inner hall, the steward representing the king was chatting eloquently with the mayor. Flattery and words of blessing were exchanged where necessary and Liu Qingyuan was suddenly glad he was the duizhang and not the representative of the monarch.
At the head of the room sat the mayor; to his right, the king's representative and to his left, a well dressed woman and a young girl respectively. Two young men stood behind their chairs, polite smiles upon their faces. Liu Qingyuan assumed it was his spouse and children.
His entrance stalled the conversation and Liu Qingyuan cupped his hands in front of his body. "Liu Qingyuan. It is an honour to meet you, Mayor Li." Li Weizhe laughed loudly, a pleased flush on his ruddy cheeks.
"It's my honour!" He waved Liu Qingyuan to a seat and cupped his own hands. "Many thanks to Liu duizhang for making the harsh trip here. You have really saved us. One look tells me you are a man of great standing!"
Liu Qingyuan smiled politely. "You flatter me."
"Let me treat you all for your hard work! A banquet seems suitable!" Before the steward could speak, Liu Qingyuan spoke out, his voice deep and level.
"No need. This year's winter will be harsher on the people. It is best to save food where possible."
"Yes, yes." The steward echoed. "We'll be troubling you. A simple meal is the same."
"Is that so..." The mayor smiled sheepishly. "Forgive me, then."
âââââ
After that 'humble' welcoming banquet, Liu Qingyuan declined the invitation for an escort and instead, strolled around the small estate by himself. For once, he was glad that he was not the diplomatic representative of this trip. Otherwise, he would have to sit there for a couple more hours while sipping tea and making small talk. Although he could be still when need be, he was a man of few words.
The estate was softly lit with lanterns, invoking an image of tranquility. The main building was lit up behind him, half-highlighting his figure in warm light. Liu Qingyuan looked up, blinking slowly at the dazzling spread of stars in the sky. Although separated by a distance of a few thousand li, everyone existed under the same sky and he found himself wondering if the king was watching the stars too.
Liu Qingyuan lowered his gaze, the wind blowing a curl of hair across the bridge of his nose. How many times had he slept under those stars as he travelled to Qiangda as a young man who hadn't yet seen the sorrows of the world? He was trained tough by his master and he wasn't a stranger to hardship and blood, but this past little while had been a different sort of test; one that tested him emotionally. The corner of his mouth turned up slightly, but it was not a happy smile. Who would have thought that everything would change so much? This new type of feeling was different from the reverence and respect he held for his master. Liu Qingyuan tightened his hand around his sword and expelled his thoughts in a breath. Enough of that.
After a while of strolling around, Liu Qingyuan had finished his brief inspection. He turned to head back, but unexpectedly heard a voice from around the corner.
"It's not too flashy is it?" A small, girly voice whispered frantically. "Quickly, give me that! Hurry up-" That voice quickly stopped as she turned the corner, nearly smashing headlong into Liu Qingyuan.
"..."
"Ah! M-mr. Liu..." The girl's fair cheeks were dusted a faint red and her braided-bun hairstyle gave her a sense of youth. She was holding up her skirt in order to move quicker, exposing the delicate slippers on her feet. Liu Qingyuan nodded in response. He vaguely remembered her face from earlier. She seemed to be the mayor's daughter that he'd met during the dinner.
"Li guniang, is something the matter?"
"N-no...it's a coincidence to meet you here," she said casually.
"...indeed.
As a silence descended between them, the girl looked panickedly to her maid beside her "Uhh...Mr.Liu, you work in the palace right? What's it like? Is it very hard?"
"...sufficient." Liu Qingyuan thought of Jiang Zhilan's mischievous behaviour; a face that he didn't show to his court ministers, and he almost smiled. He cleared his throat, adding a few more words. "It's comfortable."
But which young girl didn't have sharp eyes? She saw his mouth twitch and suddenly became emboldened. "Is the palace full of beautiful people like you?" The tone was a little teasing and a shy blush rose up.
"...what?" Liu Qingyuan slowly blinked, feeling baffled.
"I mean," The little miss continued. "You're so handsome and that other little brother was handsome too...just a little scarier..." That last part, she whispered, but Liu Qingyuan heard it anyway. He was puzzled. Which little brother? From what he knew of, he was the youngest in their party. "He carried a sword like you, except he didn't have on armour like you do...he smiled quite nicely too..." The miss didn't dare say the last part of her sentence. 'He smiled quite handsomely, but his smile was full of hidden teeth as if a beast lay behind that pretty face.'
"..." Liu Qingyuan had a premonition. "Do you remember what he looked like?"
The girl nodded eagerly, eyes glowing from the chance at conversation. "His clothes were tighter fitting like a jianghu martial artist and half his face was covered with a mask." 'Quite handsome and mysterious,' she thought.
"..." Liu Qingyuan's face immediately stiffened. There was no mistaking who this person could possibly be. His years of cultivation had preserved his youthful appearance, giving ordinary people the illusion of a 'little brother' as the miss had kindly put it. Liu Qingyuan quickly saluted her. "It was a pleasure chatting, excuse me. I have a matter to attend to." He quickly left before the flabbergasted girl could utter a sound.
Liu Qingyuan made another round of the estate. This time, his steps were deliberate and hurried. His search revealed nothing and even the few servants he questioned couldn't help but bow their heads and apologize for their ignorance. Liu Qingyuan knit his brows in frustration and confusion. Perhaps he was just overreacting.
"Huh? Why was this opened..." Liu Qingyuan looked over, watching as a garden keeper glanced out the ajar side door in confusion and then quickly closed it, locking it from the inside with a wooden bar. The servant noticed Liu Qingyuan, bowed quickly and left. Covertly, Liu Qingyuan approached the door, suspiciously examining it for any abnormalities. Although he wasn't as well versed in martial arts like his master was, perhaps it was due to his teachings that led Liu Qingyuan to believe that there was something significant behind that brief encounter.
The door couldn't be locked again from the outside so Liu Qingyuan glanced around before backing up a few steps and jumping up onto the low wall. His scabbard clanked slightly as it hit the clay tiles, but his body was hoisted effortlessly over; like a passing shadow. Outside the estate, Liu Qingyuan glanced around before following the small path into the forest.
âââââ
At the end of the path, disguised within the wispy trunks, a figure stood facing the abyss of night with his crossed arms pressing his sword to his chest. Liu Qingyuan stepped up quietly, staring with mixed emotions at that familiar back. No matter how silent he was, or how he timed his movements with the movements of the forest, his master still detected him within a second.
"You're here."
"...master." Liu Qingyuan bowed, even if he couldn't be seen.
"Mm." Only then did he dare to step up beside him.
"What...brings you here...?"
'What?" Mo Wu's tone was amused. "Am I not allowed to be here?" Liu Qingyuan was a little startled. Last time, his master had clearly been so angry...this...
"No, I-...I didn't mean..."
"En. This master understands." He smiled suddenly, this time, a little sinisterly. "I am just here to liven things up a little."
"This disciple doesn't understand." Liu Qingyuan said, a little cautiously. "If master could explain..." Mo Wu reached out suddenly, stroking Liu Qingyuan's hair in a way he hadn't done since he was a child. It was a little awkward since he was now a grown adult, but it brought back a touch of nostalgia. Liu Qingyuan's heart jumped at the sudden action, however, he had a bad feeling.
"The palace is not an easy place to enter. I can only rely on you."
Liu Qingyuan pursed his lips slightly. 'My shimei Yan Li. Have you forgotten about her?' He felt suddenly guilty. Last time, they had argued furiously and in the end, he'd promised his master that he'd do the task assigned. Look where they were now. "The late king has been dead for so many years," He muttered, "Running away and not taking responsibility." Liu Qingyuan glanced sideways at his master, brow furrowing slightly. The late king? Did the mission have anything to do with him? He did pass away many years ago, so why...?
Mo Wu turned his head and Liu Qingyuan quickly averted his gaze. Mo Wu reached out to smooth a strand of hair atop his head. Liu Qingyuan tightened his fist around his sword, fighting the chill that went down his spine. "We must destroy their reputation. Tear it down piece by piece and let Qiangda see how their glorious leaders are nothing more than snakes."
Liu Qingyuan stared at his master, his heart sinking in realization. "...you want to destroy the grain for the disaster relief project?" Mo Wu's lips tilted up, but his eyes were dark and cold.
"You always understand what this master is thinking. It's refreshing." Liu Qingyuan found his thought process to be different than before. Now, his first thought was how to stop Mo Wu, lest the people suffer. Before...before, anything that satisfied his master would be something he reached to attain. His recognition was the greatest reward.
He hesitated for a while before, "Is there not another way?"
Mo Wu raised a brow.
"Destroying the grain would harm the innocent. The coming winter is predicted to be harsh." Mo Wu blinked slowly.
"Concerning yourself with the affairs of the enemy country?"
"No...I just...this disciple is ignorant in master's...affairs, but the civilians should have no grudge with you." If they did, they'd be long dead. Liu Qingyuan didn't continue. He himself couldn't offer an alternative so he couldn't outright say what his master should or shouldn't do.
"You want me to spare them?" At his tone, Liu Qingyuan's mouth went dry but he answered anyway.
"En. The...civilians are innocent. Besides this location is so far from the palace, it won't have much effect." (After all, this wasn't like modern politics. Those who lived in the countryside practically had no chance to appeal to the king.) Mo Wu suddenly laughed out loud.
"You're really doing your best to convince me, aren't you?"
"..." Mo Wu turned, a sneer on his face. The expression in his eyes made Liu Qingyuan's heart drop to his stomach. The master regarded his disciple, unsettling feelings slowly rising up within him. His disciple had gone out into the world and gave ill fortune in return for his goodwill. Mo Wu looked away, sneering in his heart, a cruel light glinting in his eyes. Something had to be done before he found out that the pet in his bosom had become a white-eyed wolf.*
(*cruel, heartless and ungrateful person)