smileandlove21

[smileandlove21]

Hello!

I have deleted all chapters of my story "Special" here. Also, I will no longer post any updates of my works here. That means all of my stories will solely be posted and updated in ao3. You can still read it using the links in my bio.

Thank you ☺️

[smileandlove21]

24th

"Do you have any plans for your upcoming birthday, Xiao Zhuo?"

Zhuo Yichen has already forgotten his upcoming birthday. The cases they handled occupied the commander's mind and his supposed special day slipped his mind. Yichen wanted to tell Wen Xiao's father that there was no need for celebration. He has stopped celebrations since his family died. That is until Wen Xiao came and the Demon Hunting Bureau occupied his family home. They always wanted to celebrate his birthday. It will be futile to refuse any plans they may have for that day.

"I have no plans prepared. With the recent cases we had, I think it's best to skip this year for any celebration." Yichen replied with a smile. Wen Xiao's father, Fan Ying, can only sigh and nod as a response. He knows that Zhuo Yichen does not want to celebrate it all, especially now with the demon cases they need to solve.

It was finally Zhuo Yichen's birthday. As always, Zhuo Yichen woke up as if the day was not special. Attendants of the bureau and some members already greeted him which he thanked but informed them to be discreet. No one should know about it, especially the great demon amongst them.

What he does not know is Zhao Yuanzhou knew about his special day. Wen Xiao may have given him a clue about it during one conversation they had. It feels like the goddess wanted him to know and do something about it. The great demon will surely prepare something for their commander.

Zhuo Yichen remained in the Archives of the bureau to finalize his reports for the last cases. They have to visit Mount Kunlun later and he must finish all these documents right away. During his time in the Archives, attendants keep offering him food and drinks which he politely refuses at first until it becomes suspicious.

"No more offerings of any food and drinks, please. I am not hungry nor thirsty right now." Zhuo Yichen said being polite as he can be but deep inside he is irritated by the continuous distraction from his work. The attendant must have sensed it when he looked at the commander nervously.

"The great demon asked us to accommodate your every request and brought foods from the market that you can eat. He ordered us to make sure you are not hungry or thirsty on your special day." That response made Zhuo Yichen angrily call out the great demon.

"Zhao Yuanzhou! You monkey!"

Zhao Yuanzhou who was on the other side of the door flinch upon hearing the demon hunter's furious voice. He then hears steps coming his way and before he can escape, Zhuo Yichen already grabs his ears making him groan in pain. The attendant watches as their commander drags the great demon by his ear away from the Archives.

"I have reports to finish, you monkey! How did you even know it's my birthday?!" Zhuo Yichen furiously asked letting the ear of the great demon go. Zhao Yuanzhou massaged his ear as he responded.

"Wen Xiao may have given me hints about it. I wanted to make sure our precious commander was well-fed and hydrated on his special day. Is that something a member of a bureau cannot do? I am simply treating you, Xiao Zhuo." Yuanzhou gives Yichen his stupid smile. He should not be affected by his actions but he is very much affected in everything the great demon does.

"Just stop distracting me!" With that Zhuo Yichen goes back to the Archives to continue his work. Zhao Yuanzhou smiles in victory seeing the demon hunter's reaction.

"What did you do this time?" Wen Xiao said standing beside him. The goddess saw their little spat and couldn't help but be amused by it.

"I was simply treating our commander with food and drinks. It is his special day after all." Zhao Yuanzhou said with a teasing tone making the goddess chuckle. She was the reason why the great demon knew about the occasion today.

"Instead of teasing him, why don't you just give him the pendant you made hmmm?" Zhao Yuanzhou looks at Wen Xiao amused by how the goddess knew about his other gift for Yichen.

"Not now. Maybe later. Xiao Zhuo would set me on fire if I continued to distract him."

Once the reports were done and the time had come to visit Mount Kunlun, the group gathered so Ying Lei could transport them however they ended up in Sinan Water town. Yichen can only deeply sigh to calm his emotions as his so-called special day is not in his favor now. They have to solve another mystery within the town before they can proceed to Mount Kunlun.

Finally, the mystery and plague in the town have been solved by the Demong Hunting Bureau. Zhuo Yichen decided to stroll around the small town by himself. Soon enough, Zhao Yuanzhou decided to make an appearance and gave him a lantern.

"Make a wish." Yichen accepted the lantern and then looked at Yuanzhou who smiled at him.

"Aside from killing me of course," Yuanzhou added. The demon hunter just ignored his last statement as he is now conflicted killing him. His growing affection for the monkey demon adds fuel to that conflict.

Zhao Yuanzhou watches as Yichen closes his eyes to make his wish. The great demon lights up the lantern using his powers. Once the demon hunter opens his eyes, he looks at Yuanzhou and then lets the lantern float down the river.

"So what did you wish for, Xiao Zhuo?"

"If I tell you then it will not come true. Let's head back to the inn. They must be waiting." Yichen replied as he started to walk away from the great demon. Zhao Yuanzhou follows him behind, still curious about the commander's wish.

"Here is another gift from me. I made that myself." Zhao Yuanzhou said handing out the jade pendant he made for Zhuo Yichen. Yichen did not expect another gift from the ape demon. A jade pendant he made for him.

The pendant has a carved sun, moon, and stars that correspond to the meaning of his name. Zhuo Yichen unconsciously smiles as he observes the jade pendant. Yuanzhou did not bother to tease him about it. He just walked ahead of the demon hunter until he heard Yichen's voice behind him.

"Thank you. I appreciate it. You didn't have to do all of this." That made Yuanzhou turn around and face Zhuo Yichen.

"I do and I have done it already. I am thankful that a cute demon hunter named Zhuo Yichen was born into this world." That made the said demon hunter frown which made Zhao Yuanzhou laugh.

"Let's head back before I strangle you in the middle of the street." Zhuo Yichen replied with a frown on his face. The pendant given by the monkey demon is safely kept inside his sleeve.

Author’s note: Requested by anon in my ask. Sorry for the late posting of this fic. Sorry if the pairings are not to your liking 🥹

[smileandlove21]

Sacrifice

"There is no antidote at all. Unless someone is willing to use their demonic power to absorb the poison into their own body."

Those words keep ringing into Zhuo Yichen's mind when he confronts Zhen Mei for the antidote to the poison. The poison that the Chongwu camp laced on the arrow that Zhao Yuanzhou caught for Wen Xiao. It was their backup plan if the great demon would not cooperate to give his inner core. 

Now, the great demon lost his demonic power after the reforging of the Cloud Light sword. Since his body is too weak, this intensifies the effect of the poison in his body. Zhuo Yichen can only watch as the great demon suffers in silence. 

"Whatever you are thinking of, you can stop it now. I wanted to die anyway." Zhao Yuanzhou said with a smile on his stupid face. Yichen wanted to punch him. He has no regard for the people who care and love him. 

"Do you have no regard for the people you will leave behind? What about Wen Xiao? Do you think she will not suffer?" Yichen angrily retorted back to the great demon. His sudden outburst shocked Zhao Yuanzhou.

The great demon is not dense to the feelings of the demon hunter. Zhuo Yichen may not admit it but he knows that he has grown affection towards the ape demon. Zhao Yuanzhou can only wait for him to verbally say it. 

"What about you? Are you not going to be sad once I'm gone? Wouldn't you miss your favorite demon?" Yuanzhou teasingly said which earned a hit on the head from the dragon demon. Instead of responding, Zhuo Yichen walks away from Zhao Yuanzhou. 

What the great demon does not know, Zhuo Yichen started sobbing once he was outside the gates of Mount Kunlun. His heart aches at the thought of his ape demon dying. Yichen is content with seeing him with Wen Xiao and alive instead of losing him forever. 

"It is my time to save you, Zhao Yuanzhou."

Zhuo Yichen invited Zhao Yuanzhou for a drink which the great demon gladly accepted. Zhao Yuanzhou was excited to have a drink with Yichen. He did not suspect anything amiss with the sudden invitation. 

"We have known each other for so long and we never share a drink." 

Zhuo Yichen remained quiet as he poured Yuanzhou his drink and even offered him food. Zhao Yuanzhou noticed that the demon hunter was avoiding his gaze. He leans in and puts a finger on Yichen's chin bringing his face up. 

"Why do you keep facing down, Xiao Zhuo? Are you perhaps hiding something from me?" Yichen pushes his finger away. 

"What could I possibly hide from you? I am just pouring you a drink." Yichen answered looking at Zhao Yuanzhou straight in the eyes. The great demon suspiciously looks at him and leans away. He would let it slide for now. 

"This can be our farewell drink, Xiao Zhuo. I am glad to share my last drink with you." Zhao Yuanzhou said smiling at Zhuo Yichen. Yichen cannot help but feel the tears build up in his eyes. This demon just casually says statements that make his heart shatter. 

"You are stupid. I hate you, you know that right?" Zhao Yuanzhou just hummed in agreement as he drank his alcohol. His eyes fixed on Yichen, analyzing him. 

"You have said that many times than I could count, Xiao Zhuo. How could I forget? Are you not going to ask me if I feel the same?" Yichen looks at him, his eyes hold many questions. Zhao Yuanzhou will gladly answer them if he asks him. 

"Why bother? I know you don't. You rather feel pity about what you did to my family. Nothing more." 

"You are wrong. It is not pity that I feel towards you." Yuanzhou answered standing up and walking towards Zhuo Yichen. He sits down beside him as he leans his head on the demon hunter's shoulder. For once, Yichen lets the demon do what he wants. He too wanted to feel close. 

"Then what?" Zhao Yuanzhou leans even more and Zhuo Yichen can feel his breath on his ear. He unconsciously closed his eyes which did not escape Yuanzhou's sharp eyes. 

"Love. That is the emotion I feel towards you, Xiao Zhuo. Passionate love." Zhao Yuanzhou whispered as he let his lips linger on Yichen's ear. Zhuo Yichen bites his lips to stop himself from crying. He exhales deeply and turns his head to look at the ape demon.

Zhuo Yichen can see that Zhao Yuanzhou is telling him the truth. His eyes show nothing but pure love. No lies or deceit can be found in them. Zhao Yuanzhou, on the other hand, can see the sadness and regret in his demon hunter's eyes. 

Without thinking, Zhuo Yichen closes the distance between them and passionately kisses Zhao Yuanzhou. The great demon did not hesitate to respond with so much hunger and passion. He waited for this moment ever since he first laid eyes on Zhuo Yichen. Zhuo Yichen is his to claim, love and cherish as long as he lives. 

Zhuo Yichen straddles Zhao Yuanzhou which the ape demon does not object and lets his precious Xiao Zhuo daren do what wants. What he did not expect his the next thing Yichen would do. Zhuo Yichen leans in close to his lips and absorbs the poison inside his body. 

"Stop! Zhuo Yichen!" Zhao Yuanzhou tries to push him away but Zhuo Yichen is much stronger than him right now. Without his demonic powers, Zhuo Yichen is a much more powerful demon than him. 

"I love you, Zhao Yuanzhou. I love you so much." Zhuo Yichen finally admitted to Zhao Yuanzhou. He smiled at him as he placed a quick kiss on the great demon's lips. Zhao Yuanzhou felt the poison leave his body as tears flowed down his cheeks realizing what his beloved did. He immediately sits up to support Zhuo Yichen.  

Zhao Yuanzhou cradled Zhuo Yichen's body in his arms. His body started to disintegrate which made the ape demon sob as he clung to him even more. Yichen smiles as he finally saves Zhao Yuanzhou. 

"Please don't leave me. Why did you do that? Why? I love you too. I love you, please don't." Zhao Yuanzhou pleaded clinging to Yichen. He leans his head on Yichen's and intertwines their fingers. 

"I finally saved you just as you saved me too." 

"No! Yichen! Please don't...I cannot live without you." Zhuo Yichen looks up at him and smiles. It was the last smile Zhao Yuanzhou saw before his body vanished into the wind. 

The great demon can only sob as his beloved has left him. The sacrifice he should not have done for someone like him. Yuanzhou grabs the Cloud Light sword and hugs it. 

"I love you in this lifetime until the next. Till we meet again, Zhuo Yichen." 

Author’s note: credits to @kandadze gif. sorry for not crediting your work. no bad intentions 🥹

[smileandlove21]

Happy New Year everyone! 🎉

Updates are usually done first in ao3 then it will be posted here a day after. That is why the chapters for my story Special are bit delayed here.

Same for my one shot stories Destined. It will be posted in ao3 first. You can visit my ao3 profile as I link each story in my bio.

Thank you everyone for your support both here and in ao3. Some of you even commented in both platforms which I really appreciate. Your thoughts about each chapter is what keeps me writing for more.

Still, I am open for requests. Sorry if I cannot write for all pairings as my main right now is zyc/zyz and ll/zyc. I did not made that clear on my initial posting, sorry about that. Also, I might not be able to post your request immediately. I wanted to make sure it would be up to your standards (also mine hahaha).

I already updated my story Special in ao3. Will post the new chapter here tomorrow. Destined will be updated later as well in ao3.

[smileandlove21]

Author's Note: This is a special one shot for my ongoing story, Special. If you haven't read it yet, its okay as this story can be independent from it. You can still check it out if you want to.

For those who read it, this story will not affect the main plot of Special. Just a one shot that pop into my mind when I was rewatching the drama yet again 🤣

Please note that this is my version of that scene in the drama thus any information from this fic are purely my idea to fit the plot of this story.

Memories Of You

The Demon Hunting Bureau has five days to solve the Water ghost murder case. Failure to do so would result in their deaths. This day marks the fourth day of the investigation. Zhuo Yichen already concluded that Zhao Yuanzhou helped the water demon and knew his identity before he appeared in the bureau. 

Zhuo Yichen wanted to bring Ran Yi back to the bureau for the investigation to be done. If the demon will not come willingly, he would rather force him to do so. Ran Yi tried to resist the arrest and attacked Zhuo Yichen.

"I helped your brother and yet you wanted to arrest me?" Ran Yi said after dodging Yichen's attack. The confusion is clear on Zhuo Yichen's face as he backs down.

"My brother? Did you know him? Helped him? What nonsense are you talking about?" Zhuo Yichen questioned the water demon. Ran Yi can only internally laugh at the demon hunter's reaction.

"Your brother kept a secret from you. A secret that he and your father kept beyond their graves." His response angers Zhuo Yichen and tries to attack him but Zhao Yuanzhou stops him. 

"Are you defending him now? You already tried to help him and now you still want to protect him!" Yichen angrily exclaimed trying to get passed the great demon. 

"Let him speak and explain, Xiao Zhuo. If you want to know what he means then you have to let him do so. Ran Yi stop with the riddles and tell him." Zhao Yuanzhou said looking at Zhuo Yuchen then turned to Ran Yi. 

"Tell me what? Do you know what he is referring to?" 

Ever since he met the demon hunter, Zhao Yuanzhou wanted to tell him everything but it was not his secret to tell. That is why he helped Ran Yi but in return, he must confess to Zhuo Yichen the secret he kept for eight years. The secret that Ran Yi vowed to never speak of, especially to Yichen. 

"Your brother seek out my help to erase a part of your memories. Since he saved my life back then, I agreed to help him and gave him a special scale of mine that he just needs to let you consume with water." Ran Yi started to explain making the demon hunter stare at him in disbelief. 

Zhuo Yichen will not allow a demon to tarnish his brother and father's name. Whatever words come out from this demon's mouth are pure lies and deceit. His brother will not do that to him. He will not deceive him. 

"You may not believe me but it's the truth. Your brother does not want you to remember any of us especially him." 

"Him? Who are you talking about?" That made Ran Yi look at Zhao Yuanzhou which the great demon nodded as a signal. Zhuo Yichen saw their exchange which made him more furious.

Zhuo Yichen points the Cloud Light sword towards Zhao Yuanzhou's heart. These demons are trying to play on his mind and heart. His brother will not do what the water demon said. Whatever memory that is must be gruesome for his brother to let him remember. 

"Stop looking at each other! Do you know about this? Did you just come to the bureau to play around with me and the group?" 

Zhao Yuanzhou removes the sword and then pulls the demon hunter closer to him. He had enough of this play pretend and wanted to call out the very person or rather demon that needed to be here. Zhuo Yichen, on the other hand, remains still and confused about what this monkey demon is doing. The great demon then leans in a few inches from Yichen's face then whispers.

"Relax. The very person you are asking for will be here in 3...2...1"

"Zhu Yan!" That made Zhao Yuanzhou smile in victory and instantly let go of the demon hunter.

"There he is. I thought you would not reveal yourself. Pretending to be a maiden is not your thing, Li Lun." Zhao Yuanzhou said with a smirk trying to annoy the other demon. 

"Li Lun?" Zhuo Yichen whispered looking at the man in front of them. His head started to throb at the mere whisper of the demon's name. Li Lun saw the pained look on his face.

"Yichen!" Li Lun calls out as he tries to approach the demon hunter but Yichen backs away from him. The tree demon's heart shatters seeing him back away. 

"Your brother wanted to erase your memories of us, Zhuo Yichen. We met eight years ago when you were just a young demon hunter. You met Li Lun and fell in love with him. Your father and brother found out, they wanted to take you away but Li Lun can always find you. That is when your brother sought out Ran Yi and to repay your brother's kindness, he gave him the scale to erase your memories of us and Li Lun." Zhao Yuanzhou explained but Yichen shook his head as he did not believe any of it. 

"You have been running away from me for a long time, my love. It's time for you to remember me again." Li Lun said as he used his powers to extract the scale within Zhuo Yichen's body. 

As soon as the scale left Zhuo Yichen's body, memories started flooding him like a tidal wave. Yichen felt his body weaken upon the removal of the scale and the sudden hit of memories he lost eight years ago. Li Lun immediately comes to his aid as Yichen loses consciousness. 

"We should head back to the inn. Wen Xiao and others are waiting for us to get back." Zhao Yuanzhou said as Li Lun nodded in response. 

Li Lun now carries Zhuo Yichen's unconscious body close to him. It's been a long time since he last held him close this way. The last time he saw Zhuo Yichen was the time that Yichen pointed a sword at him in the forest outside Tiandu. 

"Don't you dare make a move or I will pierce this sword in your heart." The young Zhuo Yichen said pointing the Cloud Light sword at Li Lun's chest. 

The blueish eyes that held pure love and adoration towards him before now show nothing but disdain and hatred. Li Lun did not know what happened during their time apart that led to this but he knew Zhuo Yichen would not point his sword without reason. He tried to make a move but the sword pointed on his chest pierced him, making him stop.

"Yichen, my love, what has happened?" Li Lun asked ignoring the tip of the sword currently pierce on his chest. Yichen looks at the demon confused. 

"My love? I don't know you demon." 

Li Lun suddenly felt numb as Zhuo Yichen said those words. His whole world crashes down and his heart shatters into a million pieces. Instead of responding, Li Lun left Zhuo Yichen as he needed to find the answer. 

After Zhuo Yixuan took back Yichen, the older Zhuo sought out Ran Yi for help. He asked to help him erase the memories of his younger brother which the demon obliged. It was his way to repay his kindness for saving him. What Ran Yi did not know was that the younger brother he was referring to was Zhuo Yichen, the beloved mortal of Li Lun. 

Ran Yi only knew of this when Li Lun confronted him. Hearing this, Li Lun almost killed the water demon. It was Zhu Yan who stopped him before he could do so. The two demons saw how much Li Lun suffered hearing what happened to the demon hunter he loves.

"You can extract the scale, Li Lun. I can help you with that." Zhu Yan said trying to console his friend. Tears started to flow down Li Lun's cheeks as he observed Zhuo Yichen from afar. His smile still makes his whole dark life light up. 

It was yet another festival in Tiandu. Instead of joining in, the two demons are hiding on top of the roof as they observe the festival and Zhuo Yichen. It was unsafe for them to be seen in the streets of Tiandu because of the Demon Hunting Bureau. 

"When the time is right, I will extract it. For now, I will let him live his life without me in it." Li Lun replied wiping his tears away. Zhu Yan can only nod at his friend. It pains him to see Li Lun this way but he had no choice as he already decided to let Zhuo Yichen live without any memories of him.

Back at present. Li Lun waits for Zhuo Yichen to wake up. They are now back in the bureau. Zhao Yuanzhou already explained what happened to the other members of the group, leaving out the information about Li Lun and the whereabouts of Ran Yi. Yuanzhou lets Ran Yi run away with his mortal woman. He simply declared that they both died in the fight which was believed by the Chongwu camp. That completes the mission for them.

"You should leave before someone sees you." Zhao Yuanzhou said as he entered Yichen's room. Li Lun ignored him and tightened his hold on his beloved's hand.

"Li Lun." Yuanzhou calls out to his friend again. He checks outside for any signs of his newfound friends' presence. Li Lun exhales deeply and gently caresses Zhuo Yichen's face. 

"I'll see you soon, my love." He bids farewell to Yichen leaving a kiss on his forehead. Before he can transform, a hand on his wrist stops him. 

Zhuo Yichen opens his eyes and looks at Li Lun. His blueish eyes now have the pure love and adoration it once had. A smile crept on Li Lun's lips seeing his beloved back again. 

"Li Lun, my love."

[smileandlove21]

Hurt

"Why can't I join you?" 

Zhuo Yichen cannot endure Zhao Yuanzhou in his normal playful state. His pouting like a child is much worse. Being the commander of the bureau, Zhuo Yichen was summoned by the king to report on the latest cases they handled. Before, Yichen simply sent documents to the palace, but now he is summoned every month to personally report.

During those months that he visits the king, the great demon always accompanies him. This has become their way to spend alone time together. After the reports are done, they use the remaining days to stroll around the capital, and by night, they give in to their carnal desires for each other. The king generously lets them stay in the palace for days before they go back to Tiandu. 

Now, Zhuo Yichen must pacify the pouting demon who wanted to accompany him yet again.

"I will only be gone for three days, Zhao Yuanzhou. There is no need for you to come. Besides, we are on high alert now because of the fox demon. You are much more needed here to protect Tiandu," Zhuo Yichen said, trying to coax him.

"Three agonizing days without my beloved demon hunter is torture. Pei Sijing can take over as she usually does when we travel to the capital," Zhao Yuanzhou replied as he negotiated and pleaded with his human demon hunter. 

"Don't be so dramatic. Xiao Zhuo Daren needs to go now or his travel time will extend," Bai Jiu retorted. The great demon glared at him, to which the teenage doctor replied by sticking his tongue out.

Their bickering still amuses Zhuo Yichen. Bai Jiu always has something to say to the great demon. Either to insult or mock him, which triggers Zhao Yuanzhou to respond. 

"Bai Jiu is correct. I have to go now. Be on your best behavior. Pei Sijing, I leave everything in your hands now, including this monkey," Zhuo Yichen said as Pei Sijing nodded back. 

Zhao Yuanzhou tightened his hold on Zhuo Yichen's hand. Yichen can only exhale deeply and turn to look at the great demon. He caressed his face, which made Yuanzhou lean on him. 

"I promise to be back safely. I'll see you in three days." Zhuo Yichen smiles at Yuanzhou, then places a quick kiss on the demon's lips, earning a groan from their audience, particularly Bai Jiu. 

Zhao Yuanzhou lets go of his hand and lets Zhuo Yichen enter the carriage. As soon as the carriage left, the ape demon started to feel uneasy. He did not want to let Zhuo Yichen go alone, but his lover needed him to protect Tiandu in his absence. He will make sure to do it and is hoping for the safe return of his beloved demon hunter. 

Zhuo Yichen was able to finish the report earlier than expected. The king offered him the same accommodation he used before with Zhao Yuanzhou so he could stay, but he politely refused.

"My presence is needed back in Tiandu, Your Majesty. The bureau is on high alert for the fox demon," Yichen reasons out to the King. The king simply hums at that. 

"Where is your demon lover then? I presume he would be by your side during your visit as well. I even prepared the east wing just for you two." That made Zhuo Yichen freeze. His relationship with Zhao Yuanzhou was not disclosed to the King, much less to anyone outside the bureau.

"Do not fret, Zhuo Yichen. I am simply fascinated with your relationship with the great demon. My servants have ears, you know? You were not exactly quiet on your activities in the east wing," the King commented, making Yichen red with embarrassment. It was a good thing they were alone in the throne room. 

"My apologies, your majesty. I did not intend to disturb you or anyone. Also, Zhao Yuanzhou remained in Tiandu to protect the city in my absence." Zhuo Yichen replied embarrassed by what the King discovered about them. 

"It is normal, Yichen. You love one another; thus, such activities may happen to show it. You better head your way back now." 

Zhuo Yichen paid his respects to the King and left the throne room in haste. He cannot believe that he would hear that from the King. Now, he will rethink bringing Zhao Yuanzhou on every visit to the capital.

On the road back to Tiandu, Zhuo Yichen feels something was amiss. They were already a few kilometers away from the city when he felt a demonic presence in the forest. The Cloud Light sword confirms his suspicions as it lights up, indicating the presence of a demon. 

"Stop the carriage." 

As soon as the carriage stopped, Zhuo Yichen went out and observed the quiet forest. The coachman looks at him puzzled while Jinxue, a member of the bureau, takes his stance for any attack. 

"Go back to the bureau and ask for reinforcement." Zhuo Yichen orders Jinxue, who looks at him confused. He will follow any orders from the commander except leaving him behind.

"But commander..." Jinxue tries to argue but is met by a glare from Zhuo Yichen.

"Hurry back now!" 

Jinxue enters the carriage and orders the coachman to make haste back to the Demon Hunting Bureau. He turns around and sees his commander still in a defensive stance. Jinxue just hopes that the great demon will not kill him for leaving Zhuo Yichen behind.

"So brave of you to face me alone. A mere human? Do you think you can kill me? You may be a Bingyi descendant with your fancy sword, but you cannot defeat a powerful demon like me." A voice resounds within the forest. Zhuo Yichen unsheathes his sword to prepare for the demon's attack. 

"Watch me," Yichen confidently replied as he made his move to stop the sneak attack from behind. 

The fight between Zhuo Yichen and Fox Demon went on. Yichen cannot deny the power this demon holds. Just before he could stand up to attack, the fox demon unleashed her full power, causing the demon hunter to bleed heavily. 

Zhuo Yichen collapsed on the ground as the fox demon walked towards him. His body could not fight anymore and wanted to shut down on him. Yichen suddenly remembered his promise to the great demon. 

"I...promised my monkey..I can..not d..ie here." Yichen whispered as he felt the fox demon's feet stomp on his head. Then everything went black. 

As soon as Jinxue arrived at the bureau, he shouted for help, almost pleading. In an instant, Zhao Yuanzhou appears with the goddess and Pei Sijing in tow. His fear disappears upon seeing the great demon, as the emotion he only feels now is panic.

"The commander... send reinforcement in the east direction through the forest. A demon. It must be the fox demon. Please help him." 

Zhao Yuanzhou immediately makes his way towards the said forest. He did not bother to wait for the other Demon Hunting Bureau members, as his beloved needed him now. As soon as he arrives, the fox demon is mocking Zhuo Yichen, who is now on the ground bleeding.

"You dare hurt him, you pathetic excuse of a demon," Zhao Yuanzhou sternly said as he held the demon by the neck. His grip tightens as the Fox demon tries to escape him.

Zhao Yuanzhou did not think twice as he released malicious energy toward the fox demon. His inner demon demands her blood. Blood will be shed for anyone who will hurt his beloved. Instantly, the fox demon dies as Yuanzhou throws her body aside.

"Breathe for me, my love," Zhao Yuanzhou whispered as he cradled the unconscious body of Zhuo Yichen. His human was barely breathing when he first touched him. Malicious energy surrounds them as the great demon heals his beloved. 

"Xiao Zhuo! Zhao Yuanzhou!" 

Zhao Yuanzhou heard Wen Xiao call out for them, but he focused on Zhuo Yichen. He would exhaust his powers to heal his injuries and wanted nothing more than to see Yichen's beautiful blueish eyes open. 

"You promised me, Yichen. Open your eyes." 

Zhuo Yichen opens his eyes and finds himself back in his quarters in the bureau. He felt a presence beside him and saw Zhao Yuanzhou sleeping with their hands intertwined. He pokes at his sleeping monkey's cheeks to wake him. 

"You're awake." Yichen smiles at him as a response. 

Zhao Yuanzhou instantly kissed his lips, to which he responded eagerly. His great demon pulls away as he starts to sob on his neck. Yichen hugs his beloved demon to console him.

"You nearly died, my love. Don't you dare do that again," Yuanzhou said, looking at him as tears rolled down his cheeks. Zhuo Yichen wiped his tears away and placed a quick kiss on his lips.

"I'm sorry. I'm here now. You saved me," Yichen assures Zhao Yuanzhou. The great demon kisses him hungrily this time, which he does not deny. Their kiss lasted a few more minutes before they both pulled away to catch their breath.

"You will not travel alone ever again, you hear me. You will not leave me again here. I lost everything, but I will not lose you, Yichen." 

"You will not. I promise you that," Yichen said, sealing his promise with a passionate kiss to his beloved great demon.

[smileandlove21]

Snake Demon

Everyone thought that having Bingyi's blood and Ying Long's bone, Zhuo Yichen's true form would be a dragon. Wen Xiao even congratulated the commander of the Demon Hunting Bureau for that. It would be amazing to see their commander's true form as a dragon. What they did not expect was that they would see another form of Zhuo Yichen. 

A few years passed since the fight of their lives happened. The Demon Hunting Bureau thrived as the years went by. They now have more members than they can count. Despite that, the original team of the bureau still takes cases for them to investigate. That is why they are now facing an ancient fox demon. 

"Is that all you got, Bingyi descendant? You are pathetic," the fox demon tauntingly said to Zhuo Yichen. 

Zhuo Yichen knows he has not mastered his demonic powers yet. He can still lose control at any time, which he avoids. Yichen will not let himself harm others again because of his powers. 

"You are all talk but no action," Yichen replied as he continuously attacked the fox demon. 

Wen Xiao, who tried to intervene, was pushed by the fox demon's powers. Pei Sijing tried to help, but her attacks were dodged as well, while Ying Lei protected Bai Jiu as the fight continued. 

Zhuo Yichen can see how helpless they are against this ancient demon. Without thinking, Yichen taps on the powers he is trying to suppress as he slowly gets the upper hand against the fox demon. Wen Xiao saw what Zhuo Yichen was trying to do and tried to call out to him.

"Xiao Zhuo! You have to stop!" 

The others tried to call out as well to stop Zhuo Yichen, but he chose to ignore them. He wanted the blood of this demon, and he wanted it now. Recklessly, Zhuo Yichen unleashes his full power on the ancient fox demon.

A blinding light surrounded them until the fox demon turned to dust. Instead of celebrating their victory, the members of the Demon Hunting Bureau look at the figure standing before them. They don't know if he is still the commander they know.

A black-haired man with snake scales on his neck down to his chest stands before them. His blueish eyes are focused on the blood on his also snake-scaled hand as if it is the most fascinating thing for him. His clothes remain the same clothes as Zhuo Yichen's. 

"Xiao Zhuo daren?" Bai Jiu carefully asked as they all looked at him for his reaction. 

"Hmm?"

When Zhuo Yichen replied normally to Bai Jiu, it made the whole group exhale in relief. They already have one great demon who loses control of every blood moon. They don't know what to do if another demon loses control. 

"Interesting. You are not a dragon, after all, Xiao Zhuo. A snake demon. A rare demon kind." 

Zhao Yuanzhou said as he suddenly made his appearance and approached Zhuo Yichen. The great demon pulls out a cloth from his sleeve and removes the blood from Yichen's hand. The snake demon lets him do it as his eyes remain on the ape demon's face. 

"We thought Xiao Zhuo Daren would lose control as well! He changed appearance!" Bai Jiu explained. 

"He used his powers so much that it triggered his true form to appear. You don't have to be guarded against him. Snake demons are not going to kill you unless you provoke them. That is why the fox demon turned into dust. She must have annoyed Xiao Zhuo," Zhao Yuanzhou explained as he finished cleaning up Yichen's hand. 

After all that, Zhuo Yichen suddenly lost consciousness. Good thing Yuanzhou was able to catch his body and carry him in bridal style. His snake demon features started to fade as Yuanzhou walked toward the group. 

"Ying Lei. Let's go home. I have to take care of my supposed dragon demon turned snake demon." 

The group will have to wait for Zhuo Yichen's reaction to the news of his true form. He will not hear the end of the teasing from Zhao Yuanzhou. It would be payback for being called a monkey demon.

As expected, as soon as Zhuo Yichen regains consciousness after a day of coma, the whole bureau can hear his yells of irritation towards the great demon. It was then followed by hurried footsteps as Zhao Yuanzhou ran for his life. 

"A worm demon is approaching! Hide everyone!" Yuanzhou teasingly said as he ran away from Zhuo Yichen, who wanted to kill the monkey demon.

Zhuo Yichen accepted his true form since he did not have a choice. What irritates him is the teasing he gets from Zhao Yuanzhou. Only his love for the said monkey demon stops him from piercing his sword on his stupid heart.

Author's note: short fic as the idea just pop up in my head. might create another fic based on the snake demon photoshoot 🤭

[smileandlove21]

Hello!!! I've been reading your FoF fics and like them very much!

If you're still taking requests, I'd like to see your take on Yichen's 24th birthday (that was supposedly coming up in one month). Since the timeline is vague, when does it happen? (If you feel like including any pairings, could it be the main trio? 🥹)

Thank you! Feel free to ignore ❤️

Hello anon! Hope you are having a great day! I appreciate the time to write this request. I can try to write your request for Yichen's 24th birthday. With the pairings, is it Wen Xiao, ZYC & ZYC? If so, I really don't write them as a pair of poly. I'm sorry. I will try to have the fic posted in a few days or so but the pairings may not be what you wish for 🥹

[smileandlove21]

I seriously want to write a fic about this but I don't know how to begin. Its giving me another alter of Zhuo Yichen when he loses control of his powers. Something like that.

[smileandlove21]

Overprotective

The newly reinstated Demon Hunting Bureau continuously grows as new recruits sign up to be part of the vanguard. They would not only work with the famous commander of the bureau but also with the great demon of the wilderness. Every recruit wanted nothing more than to pass all the tests. 

Pei Sijing, the second in command, helps out Zhuo Yichen in making sure they would select the suitable recruit to be part of the bureau. They may have defeated Wen Zongyu a few months back, which almost cost them the lives of their two friends. The bureau needed recruits who could fight and be able to defend Tiandu City. 

"Did you hear? The great demon will be watching us during the test," Xichen said.

He is one of the recruits. He wanted to work with Zhuo Yichen for the longest time, and when the bureau opened for new recruits, he did not hesitate to sign up.

"I thought you wanted to show off your skills to Zhuo Yichen?" Xiaoyue teasingly asked her friend. 

Xiaoyue never wanted to be part of the bureau, but her only friend, Xichen, forced her to sign up. They both trained hard to be selected for the final selection. She just hopes they will be accepted, as her friend will be devastated if not. 

"I do, but having the great demon watch is also thrilling!" Xichen exclaimed, making Xiaoyue roll her eyes. 

The final selection began. The recruits are getting ready to gear up for their final test. What they did not know is that they would be fighting against Zhao Yuanzhou. 

"You have quite a number of new recruits, Xiao Zhuo. Let's see if any of you can land a blow on me," Zhao Yuanzhou said with a smile. The recruits instantly back down upon hearing that. 

"You mean we have to fight you? How can we win against a great demon?" One recruit asked.

"In order for you to be part of the bureau, you must be brave to face any demon to protect Tiandu. That includes facing a great demon like him. If you cannot do it, the door is open for you," Zhuo Yichen sternly said, making Zhao Yuanzhou look at him clearly amazed. 

"My darling commander is so tough in front of the recruits," Zhao Yuanzhou teasingly said, which earned a jab from Zhuo Yichen. 

The recruits seem hesitant to proceed, and Zhuo Yichen can see them slowly backing down. Two recruits caught his attention as they moved forward and prepared their stance to attack. 

"You have to decide now as your final selection test will now begin. Zhao Yuanzhou, go easy on them," Zhuo Yichen said, whispering the last sentence only for the great demon to hear. 

Zhuo Yichen backs away from the training area and lets Zhao Yuanzhou do the work. As he watched from the sidelines, the two recruits from earlier were eager to fight against Zhao Yuanzhou, and one of them almost hit him. Yichen can see the potential in the two recruits.

"How's the final selection?" Wen Xiao asked as she walked towards him. 

"They are still trying to hit the monkey. I told Zhao Yuanzhou to go easy on them, but he wanted to play with the recruits," Zhuo Yichen replied as they watched how Yuanzhou dodged any attacks and countered them.

Xichen and Xiaoyue are already frustrated, as their attacks are always countered by the great demon. He would not be called a great demon if he could be attacked so easily. All the recruits did not back down and tried again, but it was like play time for the great demon. 

"This is impossible! How can we hit him?!" Xichen yelled as he caught his breath. Xiaoyue, on the other hand, is already thinking of another way to do this test. 

"See how the great demon looks at the commander? Its like he is boasting his skills to him. Much like how you wanted to do," Xiaoyue whispered to her friend. Xichen observed and saw it as well. 

"I know you idolize him, but we cannot hit the great demon. We can try to hit his weakness." Xichen looks at Xiaoyue as if she lost her mind.

"You want to hit the commander?! Have you lost your mind?" Xichen exclaimed loudly, but Xiaoyue immediately put a hand on his mouth. 

Zhuo Yichen saw the two recruits at the back whispering among themselves while the others continued to assault Zhao Yuanzhou. Wen Xiao also looks at the direction he was looking at. 

"Xichen adores you, Xiao Zhuo. The girl beside him is Xiaoyue. They are childhood friends. I guess they both wanted this position so much that they are plotting something." Yichen hummed as a response to the goddess. Whatever they are trying to do, they must do it fast before the ape demon finds them. 

Xichen and Xiaoyue made a run towards the direction where Zhuo Yichen was standing. The commander was caught off guard when he felt a blade on his neck. Wen Xiao who was beside him was pushed away from the scene by Xichen. 

"Surrender now or we will hurt the commander!" Xiaoyue yelled at Zhao Yuanzhou. The great demon stopped his attacks and frozen the other recruits to look at the two recruits holding Zhuo Yichen captive. 

"Tsk, tsk. You are smart for your age, little girl. Let him go now and we will accept you to the bureau," Yuanzhou said, walking in their direction. Xiaoyue did not believe him and pushed the knife further to the neck of Zhuo Yichen, drawing blood. 

Seeing Zhuo Yichen's blood, Zhao Yuanzhou instincts kicked in and wanted nothing more than to hurt these two recruits. Xichen and Xiaoyue saw how his demeanor changed from playful to furious. His malicious energy can be felt within the training area. 

"Zhao Yuanzhou! You have to calm down!" Wen Xiao called out, but it was not heard by the great demon.

"Xiaoyue! What are we going to do?!" Xichen yelled, scared of what was going to happen to them. The great demon is approaching them like a predator hunting for his prey. 

Just then, Zhuo Yichen counters the lock Xiaoyue has on him and pushes the two recruits back. Yichen stops Yuanzhou with his hand on his chest. His hand emits blue energy. The recruits just watch as the scene unfolds before them. 

"I'm fine. It was just a scratch," Zhuo Yichen said, smiling at Zhao Yuanzhou, who now calmed down hearing his beloved's voice. He deeply exhales and looks at the two recruits behind Yichen.

"Never ever do that again. You two passed the test. The rest can try again tomorrow." With that, Zhao Yuanzhou left the training area, removing the one-word spell from the other recruits as he walked away. 

All recruits were shocked with what they witnessed. The great demon almost lost control because of the stunt of the two recruits. 

"My apologies for that. We can continue the final selection tomorrow. You two come with me," Zhuo Yichen said, then he pointed Xichen and Xiaoyue to follow him. Wen Xiao guided the rest of the recruits to the dining hall for food.

In the meeting hall, Zhuo Yichen is looking at the two recruits; however, they avoid his stares. They were scared from what happened earlier, and Yichen understands that. They might not even proceed with their positions.

"If you want to retract your positions, you may do so. After what happened earlier, I know you are scared. I can assure you that Zhao Yuanzhou will not harm anyone, especially recruits; however, you may have done something he did not like." Zhuo Yichen started to explain to cut the silence between them. 

"I'm sorry, commander. We never wanted to hurt you in the first place, but..." Xiaoyue cuts off her friend.

"I can see your importance to him, commander. I wanted to apologize as I am the one who thought about this and Xichen was just following my instructions. The great demon was right to be furious when you were not part of the test. We may be accepted, but we did it the wrong way." 

"What you did was unexpected. It was smart. You observed my actions and used that against me. What I really don't like is seeing my beloved husband bloodied. So you passed the test." Zhao Yuanzhou responded as he entered the meeting hall and lean against the wall near the entrance. 

The two recruits were shocked to know that the great demon and their commander are married. It was not announced or known by anyone in Tiandu. Zhuo Yichen raises an eyebrow at Zhao Yuanzhou, which is responded by a smirk from the ape demon. 

"You may go now, and congratulations on being part of the Demon Hunting Bureau." Zhuo Yichen smiled at two recruits, which made them smile. 

After the two recruits left, Zhao Yuanzhou walked towards Zhuo Yichen and hugged the dragon demon. He checks his neck for injuries but finds it healed already. 

"You should not have done that. The recruits were so scared. Wen Xiao has to bribe them out for food." Yuanzhou just replied with a chuckle as he kissed Yichen's forehead.

"They should never touch my precious dragon. Besides, I am not the only demon out there who can kill them. Its better for them to know the reality on how powerful demons are." 

"I can see the potential from them. The young girl is smart while the other is brave. With them together, they can be a good team," Yichen said as he played with the ape demon's hair. 

"They are good and talented. Too smart for their age. They are like us, Xiao Zhuo. Smart and brave. Of course, I am the smart one." Yuanzhou teasingly said earning a slap on his chest from Yichen.

"Whatever makes you sleep at night, you monkey." 

"Ape, darling. How many times do I have to inform you that your beloved husband is a white ape and not a monkey?" That made Yichen laugh as he hugged the great demon. 

[smileandlove21]

Saw this multiple times in my fyp. I was thinking of another separate one shot compilation between Li Lun and Zhuo Yichen. I have to draft chapter 1 first 🤭

Merry christmas to me specifically, every Li Lun/Zhuo Yichen enjoyer out there and Yan An and Tian Jiarui on the set of Veil of Shadows.

[smileandlove21]

Duty or Happiness

Being a descendant of the Bingyi clan, Zhuo Yichen is tasked not only to protect the mortal realm from demons but also to secure the family line. It means that Zhuo Yichen needs to find a suitable alpha to marry and procreate the future of his family line. This duty was supposed to be done by his older brother, but he died eight years ago. 

Now the burden of the family name lies with Zhuo Yichen. The only omega born in the Bingyi descendants. 

It was expected that he too would be an alpha, as all generations of the Bingyi descendants are alphas. Until the unexpected event happened. It was said that his birth also coincided with the first blood moon. Physicians concluded that this may have affected his secondary gender, resulting in his omega status when he presented by the age of eighteen.

"Xiao Zhuo, do you really have to do this? No one is pressuring you," Wen Xiao said as she looked at the document his childhood friend was looking at. 

It was the list of eligible alpha bachelors within the area of Tiandu. All alphas came from respectable families and were willing to be part of the Zhuo family line. This list existed even before the tragedy happened, as his father wanted to secure his marriage as well. 

"I have to, Wen Xiao. I may have become a demon now, but I can still procreate since I am an omega. It is my duty to continue the line of Zhuo," Zhuo Yichen replied as his hold on the document tightened. 

Wen Xiao knew how much Zhuo Yichen valued his family traditions. Despite being a demon, he is still a Zhuo and descendant of the Bingyi clan. He still has to continue with what was promised. Wen Xiao wanted nothing more than to see Yichen happy, but it will always be duty before happiness for him. 

"Xiao Zhuo seems distracted during dinner today. What has happened?" Zhao Yuanzhou asked the goddess as he poured tea on her cup. Wen Xiao deeply sighs as she looks at the great demon.

"He is preparing for his supposed upcoming wedding." 

Zhao Yuanzhou choked on his tea as he heard what Wen Xiao replied. The stoic and strict commander of the Demon Hunting Bureau getting married is shocking news for the ape demon. The commander is already within the marrying age, but the circumstances halted any possible proposals. 

"Who may I ask is the lucky person to be then?" 

"He still has not sent an invite to the eligible alphas. Aren't you going to submit your name on the list? I'm not dense to know that you somehow grow feelings towards Xiao Zhuo." Now, it's Zhao Yuanzhou's time to deeply sigh as what the goddess uttered is true.

"If I did, would he accept me? It would be a scandal if he were to marry the very reason his family died. The townspeople are already hesitant to accept him as a demon, much less to marry another," Yuanzhou replied. 

No matter how much he loves the little dragon demon, he will not tarnish his reputation even more. He would rather stay silent and let fate work on its own. 

"He may not say it. I know he feels the same way. He values you more than you know. You know he always has a hard time voicing out his emotions. Its his weakness." Yuanzhou hums in agreement with what Wen Xiao said. Still, he will remain with his decision. 

The day finally happened. The invited alphas from different families arrived in the Demon Hunting Bureau. Only three were invited for the selection and introduction. Zhuo Yichen will meet them one by one and spend time with each alpha. 

During this time, Pei Sijing acted as the commander of the bureau. Wen Xiao helps her as well as new recruits are coming in for training. Bai Jiu and Ying Lei are also busy with training the recruits for physicians and cooks in the bureau. Only the great demon checks on the status of the selection. 

It is not his duty to do so, but Zhao Yuanzhou wanted to make sure that the alphas are not harassing Zhuo Yichen. He may be a demon and commander, but he is still an omega. Omegas are still weak when alphas release pheromones towards them. 

Zhuo Yichen knows that Zhao Yuanzhou is watching him and the alphas he is spending the time with. His heightened senses can feel him lingering around. He cannot help but feel happy that he cares for his safety. 

"I'm sure I am not the reason for that smile, Xiao Zhuo," Mingze said, bringing Zhuo Yichen back to his senses. Hua Mingze is one of the alphas he selected, as they knew each other since they were children. 

"Don't mind me. You were saying?" Zhuo Yichen replied, trying to divert the topic, but Mingze can sense something. He placed a hand on top of Yichen, but the demon immediately retracts it.

"There is something you are not telling me. You barely spend time with the other two alphas here, Yichen. You don't allow physical touch. Are your eyes set on someone else?" As always, Mingze knew Yichen too well. A little too well for his liking. 

"I hate it that you knew me too well. Why can't you just pretend you did not noticed it?" That made Mingze laugh. 

"My happiness comes second to duty. You know that as well, Mingze. You too have the burden of carrying your family's name," Yichen added.

"I do, but yours is different. No one is telling you to marry for duty, Yichen. You are a free person, or rather a demon," Mingze replied, making Zhuo Yichen chuckle with his statement. 

"You can choose anyone to marry, to love, and to have children. As for me, my family still lingers around to pressure me with this duty. I am not saying that its a good thing your family died. All I am saying is that now is the time to choose yourself over duty. You have saved many and sacrificed everything for other people. Be with someone who you truly love. Who cares what people say? Let them talk, but what matters most is that you are happy. I want you to be happy, Zhuo Yichen," Mingze added.

What Mingze said made sense. Zhuo Yichen can't help but feel his tears flow down his cheeks, which turn into sobs as realization hits him like a ton of bricks. Mingze panics seeing him cry like this. The last time he did this was when he lost his family.

Mingze was about to comfort his childhood friend when a sudden push made him lose balance. His alpha instincts kick in, but when he sees the great demon Zhu Yan glaring at him, he instantly backs down.

"Leave."

Mingze did not think twice to walk away from the scene. A very dominant alpha and great demon is not someone to mess with it. He wanted to comfort his friend, but he would like to keep his head attached to his body. 

"Zhuo Yichen, you are one lucky omega," Mingze whispers as he heads back to his quarters. 

Back at the garden, Zhao Yuanzhou is now hugging the sobbing Zhuo Yichen. After hearing his sobs and sensed his distress, Yuanzhou did not hesitate to push the alpha away from Yichen. He will not let anyone make his precious omega cry. 

"Why are you here?" Zhuo Yichen said, looking up at Zhao Yuanzhou. Tears still flow down his eyes, making him cuter in the great demon's eyes. He wiped the omega's tears and smile at him. 

"Marry me." That made Zhuo Yichen still as his eyes locked with Yuanzhou. He knew the great demon was serious. 

"What do you mean marry you?" 

"Stop this stupid selection and marry me instead. I can give you as many children as you want to continue your line, Zhuo Yichen. I am a very dominant alpha, so marry me." 

Zhao Yuanzhou did not think about anything else at that moment. He was hesitant to offer his love to Zhuo Yichen, but seeing him with other alphas stirs something inside him. Not only do his alpha instincts kick in, but also his inner demon calls out for Zhuo Yichen. The little dragon demon is his to claim. 

"Will you be happy if I marry you? I don't want to force you to marry me just because of what I need to do as part of the Zhuo family." 

Zhao Yuanzhou's hug tightened around Zhuo Yichen. He placed a small kiss on the omega's forehead, making the omega smile. 

"You sure are dense, Xiao Zhuo. I will marry you because I love you, not because you want little dragons flying around the bureau." Yuanzhou's reply made the other demon glare at him. 

"If that is the case then, I will marry you because I love you too and not because I want little monkeys hanging around the bureau." That made Zhao Yuanzhou laugh. They shared a deep and passionate kiss as they sealed their betrothal. 

Zhuo Yichen made the announcement to the other alphas, which they gladly accepted, especially Mingze. The alpha is glad that his friend accepted his advice to choose his happiness above all. As the other alphas already left the bureau, Mingze was the last one to do so.

"I guess this is goodbye, Yichen. Invite me to your wedding whether it would be here or in the wilderness. I would definitely come!" Mingze said with a smile. Zhao Yuanzhou scoff at that. 

"As if we will invite you," Zhao Yuanzhou whispered, which Yichen heard due to his demon hearing. He jabbed the great demon and glared at him. 

"Safe travels, Mingze." With that, the last alpha left the bureau.

"I hate him. He will not be invited," Zhao Yuanzhou said, crossing his arms on his chest. 

Zhuo Yichen walks towards him and places a hand on his chest. Yuanzhou immediately pulled him closer and placed a kiss on his forehead. This gesture really makes Yichen smile. 

"Stop being jealous. Without him, I would not realize that the alpha I needed is just in front of me. You are my happiness, Zhao Yuanzhou." 

"As you are mine, my precious Yichen. Now, let's start creating our little dragons and apes!" 

[smileandlove21]

Hello everyone! I appreciate all the support and likes for my works!

My ask is open for any fic requests for Fangs of Fortune.

Feel free to drop one and I will try my best to create a fic for you!

[smileandlove21]

Bond

"Great demon, do you still get affected by the blood moon? I never saw you every blood moon in the building." Bai Jiu suddenly asked as he continued to tally the medicines he had in stock while Zhao Yuanzhou supervised or rather watched him lazily.

"That is the reason why you don't see me every blood moon, little bunny. I stay as far away from Tiandu as possible. Are you worried for me, hmm?" Yuanzhou teases their youngest member. Bai Jiu is already a teenager, but he remains the baby of the group.

Bai Jiu scoffs at Zhao Yuanzhou's question. Bai Jiu was curious because Xiao Zhuo Daren is also missing during the blood moon. The demon hunter turned demon may be helping out the great demon during this time.

"Does Xiao Zhuo daren help you out? He is a demon now, a powerful one. He is also missing during blood moons." 

Zhao Yuanzhou smirks at the curiousity of the young one. He wanted to tell the young doctor about the help he is getting from his idol. However, Yuanzhou knows that Zhuo Yichen will probably burn him alive if he does so. 

"Maybe, maybe not. Why so curious all of a sudden? You already know that I am not in control during blood moons." 

Bai Jiu turns around and crosses his arms on his chest. He knows that Zhao Yuanzhou and Zhuo Yichen are somehow a couple, but neither of them admits it. Bai Jiu and the rest just somehow concluded with how their interaction changed over time. 

"Are you and Xiao Zhuo daren...hmm?" Zhao Yuanzhou laughs at Bai Jiu's red face as he tries to question their relationship. 

"It's better that you ask him and not me. You would not believe me if I told you." 

Zhao Yuanzhou leaves the young doctor and heads towards the meeting hall, where he knows Zhuo Yichen is. As expected, the commander of the Demon Hunting Bureau is looking into the cases he needed to assign to each group. The bureau has grown so much since the Chongwu camp was disbanded. 

All demon-related cases are handled by them; thus, new recruits are needed. Zhuo Yichen has his hands full as commander of the bureau. Pei Sijing helps him as well with training the new recruits. 

"If you are here to distract me, the door is still open for you to leave." 

Zhao Yuanzhou was not even half a step into the room when Zhuo Yichen said that. He must have felt his presence considering his heightened senses as a demon. He continued to walk inside the room and sit in front of Zhuo Yichen. 

"Not even a minute to spare for your beloved ape demon, Xiao Zhuo?" Yuanzhou said with a pout on his face. Zhuo Yichen sighs, knowing this man will not stop. 

"What is it? We just saw each other an hour ago. I thought you were helping Bai Jiu?" 

"I was rather supervising our little bunny. Did you know that he is curious about us?" Yuanzhou rested an elbow on the table with his face on his palm to get closer to Zhuo Yichen. 

"What do you mean? Bai Jiu will not ask that," Zhuo Yichen said, fixing the documents on top of the table, trying to avoid making eye contact with the great demon. 

"He just did. He is a young man and very curious already. He even asks what you do during blood moons. What am I supposed to respond to that? I cannot tell him that his precious Xiao Zhou daren is being pleasu..." 

Zhao Yuanzhou was not able to finish his sentence when Zhuo Yichen hit his head with his sword. Yuanzhou placed his hand on his head to check the damage and flinch at the bump forming on top of it.

"You stupid monkey! Don't you dare teach Bai Jiu your antics!" Yichen exclaimed, clearly embarrassed. It was indeed a secret they never told anyone about.

It was no secret that their relationship progressed after all the events that transpired a few years ago. They didn't bother to confirm or announce it, as the people around them already knew. Actions speak louder than words as they say. What they don't know is the activity they do during a blood moon. 

Zhao Yuanzhou still loses control during the blood moon. He still has his barriers up in his villa where he stays during the said season. He used to work on it alone until the couple accidentally discovered what could help ease the malicious energy. 

Zhuo Yichen was in the villa when the blood moon happened. The barrier is already up even before he can escape. Zhao Yuanzhou already sensed him and made his way towards him. 

"Hmm? You are now a demon. Fascinating."

Yichen knows this is Zhu Yan and not Zhao Yuanzhou. He may be a demon now, but he will not hurt or kill Zhao Yuanzhou. This version of the ape demon will not stop until he is killed or Yichen is dead. 

"Why run, little dragon? We can play if you want to." 

They keep on playing cat and mouse within the villa until Zhu Yan cornered him inside the bedroom. Zhuo Yichen looks at the window, but Zhu Yan closed all windows and slowly walked towards him like a predator hunting for his prey. 

"What do you want?" 

"You." Zhu Yan immediately caged Yichen's arms, which Zhuo Yichen tried to escape from. 

"I will not kill you, little dragon. I will only pleasure you. If I wanted to kill you, I already done that in Mount Kunlun. Do you remember?" 

Yichen remembers that event where Zhao Yuanzhou also lost control because of the blood moon. After the one-word spell he cast on him, the demon just patted his head and proceeded to plan his next kill. 

"I don't believe you. You tried to kill me when I visited you here before." Zhu Yan lightly chuckles at that. His chuckle sends a shiver to Zhuo Yichen. He should not be affected, but he is still Zhao Yuanzhou. The only demon who can aroused the Bingyi descendant. 

"I did but only because I sensed Li Lun. Do you really think I would kill the person I am bonded with? You and I are connected not only because of your love for Zhao Yuanzhou but also because your inner demon calls out to me, his inner demon." 

Zhu Yan started kissing Zhuo Yichen's neck, which made the other demon moan. He wanted to stop him, but his body still responded to him. 

"Give yourself to me, little dragon," Zhu Yan whispered to Yichen's ear. Zhuo Yichen wrapped his arms around the great demon and responded.

"Take me."

A loud bang on the table brought back Zhuo Yichen to present. Zhao Yuanzhou is looking at him with a teasing smile. The ape demon knows that his beloved dragon remembered what had happened during their first blood moon.

"Are you trying to reminisce that moment, Xiao Zhuo? We can recreate that." 

"Out. Leave!" Zhuo Yichen uses his powers to push the demon, which only made the stupid monkey laugh. His red ears always give him away as Zhao Yuanzhou walks out of the room laughing. 

"Stupid perverted monkey demon!" 

Author's note: Merry Christmas to all! Thank you for all the support you give to my works! 🤗

[smileandlove21]

Bitter Taste

Zhao Yuanzhou has never been a jealous type. It was not in his vocabulary to begin with. He knows Zhuo Yichen was the most sought-after bachelor before he became a demon, and even until now, women like to flirt with him. 

He is confident that his Xiao Zhuo will not flirt back because Yichen does not know how to communicate well with women. It was his weakness even before they met. He would rather talk to a tree than talk to a woman. 

Not until that young lad visited Tiandu. Wen Xiao introduced him as Hua Mingze. The heir of the Hua family from the west of Tiandu. His family has always been close with the Zhuo family. Before the tragedy happened, Mingze always visited Yichen. 

Zhao Yuanzhou was not interested in that human at all. What concerns him is that ever since he arrived, Zhuo Yichen's attention is always with him. They always go out of Tiandu to visit the stalls that Mingze missed. The only time he gets to see Zhuo Yichen is during dinner, which frustrates the great demon. 

"Are you silently cursing him in your mind?" Li Lun asked as they watched Zhuo Yichen and Mingze stroll around Tiandu. Yichen was laughing at what Mingze said, which infuriates Yuanzhou. 

Zhao Yuanzhou drags Li Lun to spy or rather check on Zhuo Yichen. What he is witnessing does not sit well with him. If Zhao Yuanzhou can cast a spell to turn that man into a frog, then he already did so. 

"He does not want me away from him, but I rarely see him ever since that man arrived! How am I supposed to spend time with him if his free time is taken by that mongrel?" Yuanzhou cannot help but burst out his feelings to Li Lun, who just lazily listens to his nonsense talking. 

"You should talk to your demon hunter slash dragon demon instead of whining like a baby. Do you also plan to throw a tantrum like what Zhuo Yichen did last time?" Li Lun teasingly said, but Yuanzhou jabbed him in the chest, making the other laugh at his friend's misery. 

The two demons went back to the Demon Hunting Bureau and went on with their day. Li Lun returned to the wilderness by the time the sunsets, leaving Zhao Yuanzhou alone with thoughts. He then remembered the tantrum Zhuo Yichen did when he got jealous of Li Lun. 

"So this is how it felt, Xiao Zhuo." 

During dinner, Zhuo Yichen noticed that Zhao Yuanzhou was quiet. He was usually chattering with Ying Lei or teasing Bai Jiu, but he only heard silence. Yichen looks at Wen Xiao, then the goddess turns to Yuanzhou, then back to Yichen. She just shrugged, not knowing as well what seemed to trouble the great demon. 

"Zhao Yuanzhou, are you okay? You seem awfully quiet," Zhuo Yichen asked, but the great demon was too occupied playing with his food than responding back to him.

"Is he sick? Can you tell what's wrong so I can get the medicine for you?" Bai Jiu asked as well. They are not used to the great demon being silent. 

"Huh? What was that?" Zhao Yuanzhou asked as his trance was cut off by Ying Lei's jab on his side. 

"You are playing with your food, and we have been asking you questions, but your mind is flying elsewhere." 

"It's nothing. I will take a rest now. Goodnight everyone." Yuanzhou stands up then walks away from the dining hall.

Zhuo Yichen looks at his retreating back. He knows that there is something wrong as Zhao Yuanzhou always places a kiss on his head or forehead before heading to his quarters. They still sleep in separate rooms, but sometimes they tend to visit each other's rooms.

"I have to go." 

Zhuo Yichen immediately ran in the direction of Zhao Yuanzhou's quarters when he saw Mingze in the hallway. His belongings are already packed.

"What's wrong? I thought you were set to leave two days from now. Did something happen?" Zhuo Yichen asked Mingze. 

"My father needed me to go back. It seems that I cannot escape my fate as my wedding is all set. This would be goodbye, Yichen." Mingze responded with a sad smile. 

"You can still visit even when you are married. You can bring along your wife." 

"Maybe, maybe not. Thank you for accommodating me. It seems that your beloved cursed me to hell and back for the last few days. Tell him that I will not take you away, which is what he would be thinking." Zhuo Yichen laughs at that, as he also knew that Yuanzhou has been following them. 

Zhuo Yichen asked an attendant to help Mingze with his things before he set out to find his monkey. He neglected his monkey for the last few days since Mingze needed a friend to share his burdens. Yichen wanted to be there for him, as he also helped him during the time he lost his family. 

As always, he found his monkey sitting on the tree beside his quarters. Zhao Yuanzhou felt his presence, but he chose to ignore him. He would rather stay quiet, as his emotions are already out of control. 

"Mingze already left. He cannot run from his responsibilities as much as he wanted to," Zhuo Yichen said, which earned a scoff from the great demon. 

"Is that why he chose to stay here? You are his escape, is that it?" 

Zhuo Yichen wanted to laugh but chose not to. His great demon is clearly jealous of Mingze, and he noticed it ever since he arrived. Yichen did not purposely make the ape demon jealous, as he just naturally spent time with his childhood friend in need. All they did was stroll around Tiandu and nothing more. 

Yichen approached the demon until he could reach his hand. Zhao Yuanzhou lets him hold it but remains his eyes away from Zhuo Yichen. The demon hunter plays with his fingers then pulls Zhao Yuanzhou down the tree, causing the great demon to fall on top of Yichen. 

"I like you on top of me; you do love it too, right?" 

Zhao Yuanzhou instantly reacted to Zhuo Yichen's seduction. He looks at Zhuo Yichen below him and sees his blueish eyes full of lust and love in them. Yichen knows that Yuanzhou always responds to his seduction because he rarely does it. Only for his great white ape demon. 

"You are not being fair, Xiao Zhuo! I'm supposed to be angry, not aroused!" Zhao Yuanzhou exclaimed, standing up from their position. Yichen laughs at his reaction as he too stands up and walks towards him. 

"I will not look at Mingze or anyone like how I look at you, Yuanzhou. Mingze just needed a friend much like how Li Lun is to you. Besides, you know where we are always," Zhuo Yichen said, placing a hand on Yuanzhou's chest. Yuanzhou looks away, knowing he was caught by his beloved. 

"Are you not purposely making me jealous as revenge from last time?" 

"No. Why would I bother to do that when you get jealous of every person I talk to? You even got jealous of Bai Jiu before." 

"I did not! You are too busy to spend time with me yet you don't want me away from you. Kinda unfair, don't you think?" 

Yichen leans in for a quick peck in Yuanzhou's lips, which made the ape demon smile. 

"Being in love with the commander of the Demon Hunting Bureau has its disadvantages, but I will make sure to spend time with you again. We can actually start right now," Yichen said with a smirk, pulling Zhao Yuanzhou with him as they headed towards his quarters. 

Zhao Yuanzhou did not waste anymore time and immediately started their own version of spending time. He will make sure the whole Tiandu knows who this commander belongs to, as he will scream in pleasure until the sun rises. 

[smileandlove21]

Green is not your color

It has been five months since the battle with Wen Zongyu concluded. The emperor has disbanded the Chongwu camp and let the Demon Hunting Bureau take over the concerns with demons. The city of Tiandu is once again at peace. The only person who is not in peace is Zhuo Yichen.

"Pacing back and forth will not resolve your problem, Xiao Zhuo. You have been restless since Zhao Yuanzhou left with Li Lun," Wen Xiao said, not taking her eyes off the book she is reading.

The great demon Zhao Yuanzhou left Tiandu to go back to the Wilderness with Li Lun. He informed Zhuo Yichen that they just need to fix something, and then he will come back. That was five months ago, and Zhuo Yichen can't help but worry. He knows that Yuanzhou can defend himself, but he does not trust Li Lun.

"I don't trust that demon at all! All of a sudden he wanted to help after trying many times to kill Zhao Yuanzhou. Are you not worried at all?" Zhuo Yichen asks the Baize goddess. Wen Xiao exhaled deeply and looked at Yichen.

"Zhao Yuanzhou can take on Li Lun. Besides, didn't he promise you that he will come back? Don't you trust him?"

"I trust him, but when will he come back? 500 years from now?" Yichen sighed deeply and took a seat on the table near Wen Xiao.

Wen Xiao understood Zhuo Yichen's dilemma. He is scared to lose Zhao Yuanzhou. He may not verbally say it, but his actions say it all. She doesn't quite understand why her childhood friend refuses to admit his feelings to the great demon. It is evident that their feelings are mutual.

"You can go to the wilderness if you want, Xiao Zhuo. You know where Li Lun also resides. I'm sure they are just around there."

"He can stay wherever he is right now if he does not come back this month. I will personally make sure he cannot enter the building." Zhuo Yichen walks away from the Archives and leaves a chuckling Wen Xiao behind.

Another month passed and still no signs of the great demon. Zhuo Yichen already informed every guard to never let Zhao Yuanzhou enter the building. He even asked Ying Lei for a spell to barricade the Demon Hunting Bureau. Wen Xiao and Pei Sijing just laugh at their commander's actions.

Unbeknownst to Zhuo Yichen, Wen Xiao keeps tabs with the great demon through Li Lun. Li Lun sends messages using his pagoda leaf to the Baize goddess. Zhao Yuanzhou knew what was happening in the Demon Hunting Bureau, especially concerning Zhuo Yichen.

"Don't you think it's wise to let him know that you are in touch with Zhao Yuanzhou? He is going crazy. I don't think he will hesitate now to kill that demon." Wen Xiao laughs at Pei Sijing's comment. The goddess shakes her head.

"Zhao Yuanzhou will come back tomorrow. Let us see what will happen then."

Before the sun even rises the next day, Zhuo Yichen is already prepared for the day. His anxiousness for the comeback of the ape demon is going nowhere. He has decided to personally drag the demon back himself. Zhuo Yichen is also a demon, and he can fight Li Lun if he ever decides to stop him.

"Xiao Zhuo daren, the carriage is waiting outside." Yichen nodded at the attendant and walked his way to the huge doors of the bureau. Unaware that the demon he wishes to drag is already outside the barrier of the building.

"He really did it," Zhao Yuanzhou said while Li Lun crossed his arms on his chest as they looked at the barrier that surrounds the Demon Hunting Bureau.

"Why did you like that man again?" Li Lun asked, which earned a glare from the ape demon.

"Xiao Zhuo does not make such decisions unless I piss him off big time," Zhao Yuanzhou exhaled deeply. He is now nervous to see the demon hunter turned demon.

"Be ready for a sword in your chest then," Li Lun remarked while he worked on breaking the barrier. In an instant, the barrier opened, which alarmed the rest of the Demon Hunting Bureau members, including Zhuo Yichen.

All the members, including the main group, run towards the doors of the building; they await for the intruders to enter as they prepare for the counterattack. Zhuo Yichen, who was in the middle of the form, unsheathes his Cloud Light sword.

The two great demons enter the building casually while the Demon Hunting Bureau stands down. They all exhaled in relief, knowing it was just Zhao Yuanzhou and Li Lun. What happened next shocked them all.

Zhuo Yichen saw the two demons enter the building, which already made his blood boil in anger. He runs towards the two demons, specifically Zhao Yuanzhou, and attacks him. Good thing the ape demon already expected this attack and defended himself by twisting Yichen's arm around his back.

"Let me explain, Xiao Zhuo," Yuanzhou whispered in Yichen's ear, which angered the latter more. Zhuo Yichen attacks are sloppy, which Zhao Yuanzhou noticed. He is too driven by his emotions to think clearly of his next moves. What he cares about is to pierce the great demon with his sword.

"Listen to me, Zhuo Yichen!" Zhao Yuanzhou sternly said, but Yichen keeps on attacking him.

The fight, or rather Yichen's tantrum, lasted for another few minutes before Yuanzhou pierced himself with the Cloud Light sword. Zhuo Yichen looks at him with tears brimming in his eyes. Yuanzhou's heart breaks seeing him shed tears for him yet again.

"Can we now talk?"

Zhuo Yichen pulls the sword from Yuanzhou's chest and walks away. His tears streaming down his face as he headed back to his quarters. His heart aches seeing them together while he suffers being away from the great demon. He wanted to hurt him so badly, which is why he attacked him.

"That was intense, I must say," Li Lun commented, showing up from the corner. Zhao Yuanzhou checked his surroundings and saw them empty.

"The goddess asked them to leave. They also left so you two can talk," Li Lun added.

"Now, I have to tame one furious baby dragon."

Zhao Yuanzhou knows Zhuo Yichen went back to his quarters. One attendant informed him that the commander asked for tea to be delivered in his room. Before he can fully enter, Zhuo Yichen throws a cup of tea at him, which Yuanzhou was able to dodge.

"Leave."

"You already thrown quite a tantrum back there, Xiao Zhuo. Don't you think I deserve to be heard now? I promised I would come back, and I did," Zhao Yuanzhou calmly said as he sat in front of Zhuo Yichen. He pours himself a cup of tea as well while Yichen looks the other way.

"I had to help Li Lun with his cultivation since he almost died battling Wen Zongyu. His cultivation was disrupted when he joined the fight."

Zhao Yuanzhou started to explain, but Zhuo Yichen already hates what he is hearing. His mind is going haywire thinking about the possible ways to help a demon cultivate. What the two had done to help Li Lun speed up the cultivation. His hold on the cup tightens, which shatters it in a minute. Blood started oozing out of his hand because of the cut, but Yichen was not bothered by it. His jealousy is getting the best of him right now.

Zhao Yuanzhou immediately takes his hand to heal it, but Yichen pulls away. Zhuo Yichen heals himself and pours himself another cup of tea. Yuanzhou finally realizes what his Xiao Zhuo might be thinking.

"We did not do anything if that is what you are thinking. I swear on my life that I simply help him or rather teach him ways to cultivate faster. You are the only person I would dual cultivate with. No one else."

Zhuo Yichen finally looks at Zhao Yuanzhou. The great demon can see the redness of Yichen's ear, which made him smile. Yuanzhou stands up and sits behind Zhuo Yichen, then pulls the young demon to lean on his chest. Yichen is now sitting on Yuanzhou's lap.

"Green does not suit you, Yichen. I like the color blue more." Yuanzhou teases his jealous baby dragon. Yichen slaps his hand on his waist as a response.

"You have been with Li Lun for months. Don't blame me for thinking that you... whatever that is. You were friends before we did. You know each other so much that you even used it against each other before." Zhuo Yichen hates to admit that he is jealous every time he sees them together. He knew that the two demons knew each other well. He cannot compete with Li Lun on how much he knows of Zhao Yuanzhou.

"Li Lun will always be a friend. Only friends, nothing more. You, on the other hand, are my beloved baby dragon." Yichen slapped his hand again, causing Yuanzhou to chuckle. 

"I promised to not leave your side for the rest of our lives, Zhuo Yichen. If I can stick myself to you then I would. I just hope you will not get tired of this handsome face." Yichen sits up and turns around to face Zhao Yuanzhou. His hands caress the great demon's face.

"Never. You are stuck with me whether you like it or not." Zhao Yuanzhou smiled as he leans in to kiss Zhuo Yichen. Yichen gladly responds as he wraps his arms around Yuanzhou's neck.

The innocent kiss turns into a passionate and heated one. Words are no longer important between them. They would rather share a passionate night, pleasuring one another to feel each other's love. A love they would share for the rest of their lives. 

[smileandlove21]

Immunity

Cloud Light sword. The sword that is wielded by the chosen one from the Bingyi clan. All men from the family can carry the sword, but only a few can awaken its true powers. Zhuo Yichen never dreamed of wielding the said sword. It was always meant for his older brother. If his brother cannot awaken it, he has zero chances of doing it as well.

He is weak and frail, which is the polar opposite of his brother. That is why, when his brother died, he was hesitant to wield the Cloud Light sword, much less touch it. The sword was the reminder of his brother's death. Every time he touches the sword, Yichen does not feel worthy. That is, until it glowed for him.

From then on, Zhuo Yichen promised himself that he would master it and avenge his family's death. He made a name for himself in Tiandu. He has slayed many demons with the sword, but they are not his main target. It seems that his prayers were answered when Zhu Yan or Zhao Yuanzhou appeared in the newly reinstated Demon Hunting Bureau. He declared what his intentions are, which confused Yichen.

The great demon wanted to die by his hands. Only he and his sword can kill him, which will end the line of vessels for malicious energy. He is more than willing to do it. Not only for revenge for his family but also to ensure the safety of the townspeople.

What Yichen did not expect was that months after spending time with Zhao Yuanzhou, he started to feel emotions he cannot explain. Emotions that will forbid him to reach his goal. Aside from that, he knows that it will never be reciprocated. The great demon only has eyes for his childhood friend, Wen Xiao.

"Xiao Zhuo daren, can someone else hold your sword? Can I hold it?" Bai Jiu suddenly asked. They were done investigating a demon sighting just outside Tiandu when they decided to refill their hungry stomachs with food.

"You can, but do not unsheathe it." Yichen passed the sword to Bai Jiu, who squealed in delight when holding the famous sword.

"I bet the great demon cannot hold it. It is said that the Cloud Light sword repels..." Bai Jiu was unable to finish his sentence when Zhao Yuanzhou grabbed the sword. They all look at Yuanzhou as he easily twirls the sword as if it were just a normal chopstick.

"How?! You are a demon! Demons cannot touch the famous sword!" Bai Jiu exclaims as he looks at Zhuo Yichen for answers.

"There is a special reason why I can hold it." Yuanzhou looks at Yichen with a smirk. The demon hunter raised an eyebrow at him, clearly not amused with where the topic would go.

"I am curious as well, Xiao Zhuo. How come he can touch it? As far as I know, your sword cannot be touched by any demons," Wen Xiao added with a knowing look.

In all honesty, Zhuo Yichen does not even know the answer to their curiosity about his sword. Clearly, his sword only lets the stupid monkey hold it. He personally prefers that Zhao Yuanzhou gets burned by it, but the sword seems to know his true feelings towards the ape demon. It all suddenly dawned on Yichen what could be the reason. His ears turn red, which was noticed by Wen Xiao.

"His sword can feel his emotions. If he is hurt, angry, or in love, the Cloud Light sword responds to it. Am I right, Xiao Zhuo?" Zhao Yuanzhou asked with a smirk on his face. Yichen wanted nothing but to punch that stupid, handsome face.

"I don't know what you are talking about," he replied as he looked away from them. His red ears give him away, which earned a chuckle from the group except Bai Jiu, who is still confused about what they are talking about.

Before anyone can press on the topic, their food arrives, saving Yichen from further embarrassment. The topic was dropped in an instant, and it was never brought up until Zhao Yuanzhou visited Yichen during training.

Three days after their mission, they were allowed to take a break before they ventured for another investigation. Zhuo Yichen uses this time to train more using the Cloud Light sword. He was so focused on his training that he failed to feel another presence in the area.

"We are supposed to take a break, Xiao Zhuo. You already exhausted yourself three days ago."

His peace was disturbed yet again by Zhao Yuanzhou. Yichen stops his motions and turns around to face the great demon.

"I can take care of myself. If you wish to relax, then by all means do so. You don't have a shackle to stop you from wandering Tiandu." Yuanzhou scoffs and walks towards Yichen.

Every step Zhao Yuanzhou takes makes Zhuo Yichen's heart tremble. He was so distracted with his heart that Yichen failed to realize that Yuanzhou was already in front of him. The great demon grabs his sword and inspects it.

"My immunity with your sword is much like your immunity with my one-word spell."

"What do you mean? You gave me that immunity while I did nothing of that sort for you to be immune to my sword." Zhao Yuanzhou suddenly leans in towards Zhuo Yichen. Too close for Yichen's liking. He chose not to react to the antics of the ape demon. Yichen knows that he is just provoking him.

"You also gave me this immunity, Xiao Zhuo. You are just not aware of it. Or should I say you are aware but you choose to hide it?" There goes again that stupid smirk by Yuanzhou. Yichen really wanted to punch his face right now. Zhao Yuanzhou can see that the demon hunter is close to his breaking point.

"Shut up! I don't know what you are talking about, you stupid monkey!" Yichen grabs the Cloud Light sword from Yuanzhou and starts walking away. Zhuo Yichen was only ten steps away from the exit when Zhao Yuanzhou suddenly said something that made him stop.

"You gave me your heart, Xiao Zhuo. Your sword responds to your feelings. You don't want me to be hurt by the sword. That is why I can touch it. Don't worry, I also gave you mine. My energy recognizes you, which is why it will never hurt you as well." Yuanzhou's voice seems pleased with what he just said. They both know it's the truth, but Yichen will never admit it.

Zhuo Yichen did not turn around and started walking away again. Zhao Yuanzhou could see the redness of his ear before he left. He chuckled and decided to move on with his day. He can wait for 500 years for Zhuo Yichen to admit his feelings.