#wip: the one where Geto gets reincarnated

[phantom-z0ne]

Chapter 3: Arc 1-03

Immortal Alliance Conference Part 1

The journey towards the Immortal Alliance Conference was dull, Shen Jiu glumly thought. 

It was only his respect for the Peak’s honor and his own reputation that he didn't give in and yell in frustration. Who had thought it a good idea to stick a group of young cultivators in carriages for an extended period of time? Many of his fellow disciples were already bored out of their mind, playing simple games and gossiping were all they had to occupy themselves. There weren't many topics that weren't already spoken about, and being in the company of bored disciples was just unpleasant. Hearing Gao Qiangda brag about his assured success in the competition for three days in a row got tiring after the second time.

Not to mention Xin Xingfu chatting his ear off. What Shen Jiu wouldn't do to swap Xin Xingfu with Xiang Mei. At least she would know when to back off. This carriage was going to make him go insane!

After two weeks worth of travel, they still didn't arrive at their destination. The same, unchanging landscape flew by for the past three days, just looking gave him a headache. The only excitement they see is when demons got too close to the procession and were cut down. Unfortunately, it was done quickly, so not much entertainment could come from it. 

Why had he agreed to even attend the Conference, for goodness sake? He hasn't been cultivating for long enough to attend, not to mention the limited slots on who could attend.

Ah, he remembers why now. His Shifu was the one who entered him into the competition.

He let out a sigh, his cheek resting on his hand while he looked out the window and into the distance, ruminating about the day that led to this situation…

“What?!” He exclaimed, rearing back, shocked to hear those words coming out of his Shifu’s mouth. Shen Jiu quickly schooled his face into a neutral expression, mind whirling to thoughts of why his Shifu would want him to go.

Quan Jigui's eyes softened, his mouth twitching in restrained laughter, though it was hidden with a quick wave of his fan.

“Was I unclear?” He questioned, slowly fanning his face.

“I am honored to be chosen to represent Qing Jing Peak, it is just…” he paused, thinking on how to get his stance across clearly, worrying his lower lip. He unconsciously palmed his robes before realizing what he was doing and quickly smoothing it out. “Are there no other candidates?”

“You are one of my most promising students, of course I would want you to go.” Quan Jigui spoke softly, watching his disciple’s face turn red.

“I—” Shen Jiu began, pleased to have his Shifu's considerations. 

“I trust that you will properly represent Qing Jing Peak, yes?” An intense look came upon Quan Jigui's face, he wanted his disciple to take this seriously. 

Determination flashed over Shen Jiu’s face as he clenched his fist before being replaced with a neutral expression. “Of course!” 

“Thanking Shifu for the opportunity.” He clasped his hands together, palm over fist, above his chest, bowing down for a moment. He wouldn't let his Shifu down.

He was jolted out of his memories by Xin Xingfu scrambling over him to reach the window. “I see it!” He shouted, grabbing the rest of the carriage’s attention. Many hurried over to the windows, eager to grab a peek of their destination. Distant multicolored flags fluttering in the wind was all that could be seen.

Shen Jiu was quickly squashed in between Xin Xingfu and the window, letting out a cry of surprise. Xin Xingfu kneeled over as Shen Jiu’s elbow dug into his ribs to dislodge him. Succeeding, he tossed his shixiong off of himself with a huff. 

“Ow! You're such a mean shidi, abusing your shixiongs~!” He pouted, recovering from the attack on his ribs. The comment earned him a look of disgust from Shen Jiu before he turned away from his shixiong. 

The procession eventually came to an end, carriages being quickly emptied in favor of studying their surroundings. They stopped at a seemingly random mountain range were it not for the gaping gorge that split the land. A large area of the terrain was decorated in colorful tents that housed the multitude of flags that were seen from the distance. At the edge of the gorge, a high tower resided, a place for those who were not participating to watch the competition.

The border of the gorge was slowly being filled with thousands of people arriving from all over the cultivation world. From no named sects to giants such as Huan Hua sect, many were vying for the opportunity to get their name out.

As Shen Jiu and other Qing Jing Peak disciples were being herded to the gorge, a hand suddenly grabbed his arm. He turned around, expecting to see Xiang Mei, seeing as she would be the only one bold enough to grab him. (Excluding Xin Xingfu, of course, since he already ran ahead.)

However, the one holding on to his arm was someone he didn't know. A person, most likely a young man due to the cut of his robes, seemed to be staring at him through their weimao(1). Their pale robes, accentuated by silver embroidery, flowed around them. The weimao, which Shen Jiu wondered how the person could even see through the thick fabric, fluttered in the wind and exposed a sliver of the person's pale skin.

Shen Jiu stood mystified for a couple seconds before he wrenched his arm out of their grip, taking a few steps back. Frowning, he asked, “Do you handle every person you first meet like this?”

(He should know this person, a small part of his mind thinks. 

That thought was quickly smothered.)

His hand inched towards his fan, gripping it in his hand. At the same time, the person stood still, seemingly bewildered by their own action as they stared at their hand. 

The person quickly put their hands up, palms facing Shen Jiu, before laughing out, “My bad, my bad~. It seems like I had the wrong person.”

He—the voice was masculine, confirming Shen Jiu’s theory—cocked his head dramatically, placing it on his waiting palms, as if to say ‘What else could I have done?’

Shen Jiu pursed his lips, staring at the strange man swaying in place, letting his fan fall before breathing out a sigh, running his hands down the silky fabric of his robes. “Check next time whether it is the person you are looking for before grabbing them.” 

“Okay~! I'll see you around, later!” he responded obnoxiously before bounding away.

Shen Jiu frowned as he watched the young man walk away, eventually turning around and heading to his fellow disciples, putting the encounter out of his mind.

Surrounded by his fellow sectmates, Shen Jiu observed the cultivator reciting the rules. It was simple: For every creature slayed you received a prayer bead, the higher the level of the beast the more qi stored within the beads. There was also to be no attacking other cultivators, lest you be banned from the conference for the next five years. Of course, the knowledge that everyone will know you attacked other cultivators is more damaging to your reputation than being banned for a few measly years.

As the beginning of the competition was announced, Shen Jiu glanced at his wrist, eyeing the golden band, planning how he should go about the next seven days. Perhaps he should take it slowly at the beginning, save his energy for the higher level demonic beasts. 

Many disciples rushed past him, eager to be the first to show up on the leaderboard, as Shen Jiu strolled into the gorge, casually waving his fan(2). A voice called his name, urgent and low. He spun on his heels, thinking for a moment it was that strange young man before dismissing that thought, and caught sight of Yue Qi jogging towards him. Behind him a small group of Cang Qiong cultivators. 

His expression cooled, a scowl slowly forming. “Yes?” 

It has been a while since he had last come across Yue Qi, desperately avoiding the other after their last disastrous meeting when his temper got the better of him. Yue Qi had grown, he had to admit. His face was full with a healthy sheen and filled out, hair neatly tied back in a bun, and his clothes tidy and clean, directly contrasting how he had looked two years prior. He looked well. And comfortable in his position, Shen Jiu thought bitterly as his fan inched towards his face(3). 

Yue Qi paused a number of steps before him, his group a few steps behind.

“It is nice to see you, Xiao Jiu.” Yue Qi’s eyes soften, smiling brightly at him.

Shen-Jiu’s face soured, annoyed at his familiar tone. Why would he not let that infernal nickname die?“Why have you sought me out?”

“Do you plan to go alone? ” Yue Qi asked, “We are in need of an extra member.” He gestured behind him. Shen Jiu swept his gaze along the handful of cultivators staring curiously at him before snapping his gaze back to Yue Qi, dismissing them. He felt a few of the cultivators bristle while others clearly didn't notice the snub.

“Your team.” He said slowly, letting the words drop icily from his lips, “And why do you believe that I would join?”

A scoff sounded from behind Yue Qi, Shen Jiu turning slightly, facing who the sound belonged to, eyebrows furrowed. A young woman, her hair up tightly in a bun, a sword strapped to her waist as purple and white robes whipped gently around her. A Xian Shu disciple. Beside her, a shrewd looking young man, looking quite bored with the situation, his blue-green robes signifying him as an An Ding disciple. No weapon appearing to be on his body. Doubtful, considering he is entering a deadly competition. He’ll have to keep an eye on this one.

Shen Jiu slowly fanned his face(4), looking down at them from his nose. 

“I'm afraid I haven't heard of you.” He spoke tauntingly, face blank. The Xian Shu disciple grit her teeth, glaring daggers at Shen Jiu. 

“Qi Jiao.” She spit out. 

“Oh.” He replied disinterestedly. This was the girl Yue Qi was in a relationship with? How disappointing. He couldn’t find anything that made her any more interesting than any other woman.

Ignoring her and the other disciples once more, he turned back to Yue Qi. Tapping his fan on his cheek(5), he mulled the offer over before answering. “No.”

“No?” Yue Qi bit his lips, looking at Shen Jiu with wide eyes, eyebrows downturned. How pitiful he looked. Unfortunately for him, Shen Jiu was immune to that look.

“No.” Shen Jiu replied coolly. “We both have a conference to attend, don't waste my time.”  With that, he stalked off into the gorge, hearing the woman angrily asking Yue Qi why he thought to even invite Shen Jiu.

Once he was alone, he let out a sigh, letting his nerves settle some. Interacting with Yue Qi after their previous meeting, it was… he was trying, okay? It’s not his fault that Yue Qi was so infuriating, and calling him that damned nickname! 

He searched his sleeve, pulling out a ribbon and quickly tying his hair in a ponytail. Leaves crushed under his shoes, the sounds of the forest reaching his ears. 

The conference had begun and he didn't know what would attack him. It was time to get serious.

Please tell me if my pacing is too fast, I kinda feel like it is (-_-;)

Any guesses to who Shen Jiu met?? Its quite obvious ;D

1) A weimao is a wide-brimmed hat with a shoulder-length veil hanging.

2) A fan being waved can be peaceful or soothing.

3) A fan covering the face can be interpreted as the user wishing for others to behave themself or leave.

4) A fan being waved slowly in this context can be interpreted the user being impatient, usually a signal for others to speak faster or get their point across.

5) A fan being placed on the cheek can be interpreted as a denial.

<< Chapter 2 | Masterpost | Chapter 4 >>

[laughing-sock]

sock's twitter posts masterlist

because I don't want to maintain a thread of threads on twitter itself lol

last updated 12-15-2024

tags

[NEW] = added in the most recent update

[🔞] = NSFW

[🌶️] = mildly NSFW

wip snippets

goyuu

[NEW][🌶️] gojo's bday 2024 (1) (ao3)

[🔞] goyuugo week fic (1) (2) (3) (ao3)

[🔞] mer AU (link)

[🔞] omega!gojo/alpha!yuuji (link)

[🔞] omegaverse smut a.k.a. gojo can't stop knotting (1) (2) (ao3)

[🔞] incubus!yuuji starving in the basement (1) (ao3)

[🔞] king of curses!gojo (1) (2) (ao3)

[🌶️] sukuna brings yuuji to life with an extra stipulation in their binding vow (link)

+ geita - AU where geto goes out of country instead of becoming a murdering cult leader, returning now after 10 years away (link)

okkogoyuu

starting from established okkoita (link)

okkoita (+ goyuu)

the post-ch. 261 threadfic, but worse (link)

okkogo

[🔞] relatively happy future canon AU, ft. gojo pining for yuuji after his graduation & yuuta getting dragged into a Mess (1) (2)

goyuumei

[🔞] mei mei "babysits" yuuji one day while he's in the basement; gojo comes back to a surprise (link)

threadfics

goyuu

[NEW][🔞] free use/public sex (link)

[🔞] omegaverse public sex demonstration for the higher ups (link)

[🌶️] orgasm control (link) (extra)

[🔞] no curses au, body sushi desserts model yuuji (link) (ao3)

[🔞] dub/non-con, gojo showing yuuji off to voyeur(?) geto (link) (ao3)

coffee shop meet cute reincarnation AU (link) (ao3)

[🔞] somno, dub/non-con, gojo wins vs sukuna & passes out on top of yuuji afterwards (link) (ao3)

okkoita (+ goyuu)

[🌶️] post-canon w/ ch. 261 spoilers (link) (ao3)

shorter thoughts & other

goyuu

[🔞] gojo takes out all of his frustrations by very aggressively sucking yuuji's dick (link)

[🔞] tickle kink (link)

kept man gojo (link)

his dark materials/daemons au (link)

[🌶️] crocodile tears gojo (link)

[🌶️] post-PR mentally unstable, jealous gojo (link) (ao3)

ch. 257 implications (link)

[🌶️] 1-2 lines of 9 separate wips (link)

[🌶️] abandoned wip, post-unboxing gojo going over yuuji's scars (link)

[🔞] choking kink, self-prompt? (link) (all my prompts)

[🌶️] subby!gojo trying to get an oblivious yuuji to take control of him (link)

okkoita

[🌶️] + goyuu, yuuta as gojo's Best student (link)

[🔞] post-shibuya, yuuta copied gojo's ct, ft. unrequited/ambiguous goyuu (link)

Changelog

12-15-2024 added gojo's bday 2024 links, free use/public sex goyuu threadfic. fixed ratings on some wip snippets based on ao3 ratings

11-05-2024 added link 3 + ao3 link to goyuugo week fic, Best student yuuta short thought, okkogoyuu starting from est. okkoita wip snippet, omegverse public sex threadfic, tickle kink goyuu short thought, aggressive blowjob gojo short thought

08-13-2024 added goyuu orgasm control threadfic, kept man gojo short thought, and ao3 link for body sushi desserts model yuuji

07-31-2024 added link 2 to goyuugo week wip and no curses/body sushi desserts model yuuji threadfic

07-19-2024 added goyuugo week wip snippet and hdm/daemons au

06-07-2024 added crocodile tears gojo & ao3 links for threadfics

06-04-2024 added wip snippet for the extended post-ch. 261 threadfic. replaced [NSFW] and [mildly NSFW] with [🔞] and [🌶️] tags respectively

05-23-2024 added ch. 261 post-canon & mentally unstable, jealous gojo. added the [NEW] tag

05-02-2024 added mer au & ch. 257 thoughts

04-19-2024 added link 2 to okkogo future canon AU

04-19-2024 created

[uriekukistan]

For the WIP ask game: 🦈,🤡,🛠 and also just ♡

hii thank you for the ask :3 hope you’re doing well !!!

🦈Tell us the name of your/ one of your WIP(s)

i have so many…the ones that have official titles:

favourite worst nightmare (itfs college/band au. probably my fav)

forget-me-not (itfs reincarnation/tattoo artist x florist au. my current nemesis)

rabbits die of loneliness (also itfs, part 1/?? of my tokyo ghoul-inspired jjk fics)

the imposter (geto character study)

+ 3 more untitled…

🤡How many Wips are you actively working on?

i have sent quite a few to time out recently so…i’d say maybe 4, but some of them are quite inconsistent

🛠Is there a scene or anything in the WIP you are struggling with right now?

OKAY SO forget-me-not is like pulling teeth rn….i love the concept and i love the idea but the thing is its SOOOO outside my usual type of fic. both in terms of the au, and in terms of the fact that no consistent theme has shown up and To Me i hate when my fics have No Theme.

ALSO i was SEVENTEEN THOUSAND WORDS into this fic when canon flower enjoyer megumi dropped….and its inspired by a fanart where yuuji is the florist………..oh my god this is my nightmare

plus i’ve recently decided i Don’t Like how i wrote megumi so i need to go back and rework like. half of the scenes…..i just……..I’VE NEVER MESSED UP MEGUMI BEFORE THIS IS SO SHAMEFUL TO ME. my biggest claim as an ao3 writer is that no one gets him like me and i….feel like a failure

the concept is so cute and there’s some really redeeming aspects of it. like the idea of megumi and yuuji reincarnating into a life where they can live peacefully and happily….and finding each other bc theyre meant to be……so healing.

im gonna make it work, but rn i just…..

sorry for ranting that has been on my mind for so long now

[jjkweeb]

Incarnate 

Summary: Female reader/Geto/Sukuna

 After being banned, you and Geto decide to gather the special grade curses and start and all out war. Unbeknownst you, Sukuna the king of curses, becomes part of this scheme. As time goes on Sukuna finds out you are the reincarnation of his first love that was the one who cursed him. A choice has to be made to either protect you or let you kill him to end the curse for him.

TW: There will be fighting, blood, sexual scenes throughout this. Swearing as well. 

Currently a wip so no word count yet

Chapter 1 

Gray clouds, yellowing leaves on trees, the cool breeze coming through the window that is down in Geto’s car signal that fall is in the air. Soon there would be snow covering the ground which meant there would only be a few months to prepare for the upcoming war that was planned in Shibuya. The plan is to take out all the Jujutsu sorcerers including the strongest one of all, Gojo. Knowing that you and Geto had to gather a group of special grade curses, which you were going to meet today to discuss the plan of action. That is until something causes that to change unexpectly leading you to have to make a choice that could cause problems in your plans.  

“How much longer till we get there Geto?” 

“Patience y/n, were about an hour away.” 

“Tsh, why does it have to be so far away.” 

“Well, we don’t need the higher ups to know what's going on. So, the easiest way is to meet away from Tokyo and find us a place to gather at regular intervals.” 

You groaned looking out the cracked open window as the wind blows your hair thinking. It's not like the higher ups could track you, so how would they know where you would be at? Plus, there would be several special grade curses where you were meeting so you had to be away from the public to keep the cursed energy down so it wouldn’t be detected by any lingering sorcerers. The sudden surge of cursed energy in one area would defiantly cause some suspension. As your mind trailed on you eventually dozed off in the car. 

-------- 

“Hey, y/n, wake up dear. We’re here, now we just have to wait till the others get here.” Geto states slightly shaking your leg, “Can you summon Okuri-inu and go scout the area.” 

Opening your eyes, you see you’re in the middle of nowhere basically. All that surrounds you is a forest, there is a waterfall in the distance you can hear, birds chirping, and the water flowing down the river. The multitude of trees surrounding you range in colors from yellow, brown, and red. You rub your eyes and yawn stretching in the seat. It takes you a minute for your eyes to readjust after waking up. Reaching for the door so you can get out and stretch your legs after the three hour car ride. 

“Yeah.” Taking a deep breath and making your hand sign, you summon the creature,”Okuri-inu, dog of hell!” A giant pitch black dog with crimson red glowing eyes, sharp canines and claws, and flames dancing around its neck, paws, ears, and tail appears, “Come on we got to go scout.” the hellhound barks sending a deep rumbling vibration through your body igniting a rush of adrenaline coursing through your veins.  

Geto stays behind in the area waiting for the curses to show. One by one each one shows up. First was Mahito, next was Dagon, then Hanami. The last was Sukuna the King of Curses. As they all gathered while you were scanning the area, the Okuri-inu let out another deep bark that traveled across the area to Geto to signal that the area was clear and that you were on your way back.  

“So, is this everyone?” Sukuna’s deep voice stated looking at Geto. 

“We got to wait on y/n to come back.” Geto replied  

Running out of the forest on Okuri-inu's back, you waved at Geto and the group. Looking over each one slowly before your eyes fell on Sukunas stature. He was tall, with broad shoulders, pink spiky hair, tattoos lining his face and arms from the bit of skin that shown out from under his white kimono and black scarf. His crimson red eyes catching yours in an instant. Something about him was intriguing. You knew he was a cursed human spirit but did not realize how human he looked in that moment. You had heard stories of him with two faces and four arms, so it had you stunned to see how he looked. Sukuna turns his back towards you facing Geto.  

Okuri-inu vanished back into the portal you summoned and landing beside Geto. You leaned against the car watching everyone. The energy was definitely heavy, especially the energy coming from Sukuna. If you had been a normal human or a lower lever sorcerer, you would have been frozen in place from fear. Being one of the five special grade sorcerers banned from Jujutsu High meant that their energy did not bother you, at least most of them. Sukunas energy made your body tingle, almost wanting to pull you in close to him. Both of your energies seemed to want to mingle together. 

After discussing the plan on Shibuya, you lay back on the ground and sigh. Watching the clouds go over when raindrops start falling on you. Jumping you bolt to the car. Geto grabs you pulling you under the umbrella with him. You smile looking up at him as he releases you. 

“Thanks.” 

“No problem. I had a feeling it would rain so I brought it.” Geto looks back up to everyone, “now that the plan is set now, we just need somewhere to lay low till its time and train.” 

“My estate is about five hours from here in the mountains. No one really knows where it is or that I even have it.” Sukuna replies, “everyone can stay there till its time.” 

Geto looks at Sukuna and nods.  

“There is plenty of room for everyone. One of you will have to go grab some groceries for everyone. There isn't anything there since no one has been there in hundreds of years.” 

“I'll go.” You reply bouncing around smiling. 

Geto laughs, “always excited to go do something.” 

“What I don’t like not doing anything, it’s boring. I'm not you mister stays in one place.” you push Geto laughing. 

Sukuna watches you closely, very pulled to your bubbly playful attitude for some reason he doesn’t understand. You remind him of someone from his past when he used to be a human. Your fire engine red hair flowing in the wind and amber eyes sparkle. You were smaller framed than him and everyone else. He would say roughly five foot or so compared to his five foot eight inches.  

“Alright I guess its settled,” Sukuna starts to say, “y/n will go get groceries after we get there. I'll go with her, there is not sorcerers in the area that my estate is located so we should be okay.” 

You pause and stop in your tracks from playing around with Geto. Looking over at Sukuna who is staring at you, you feel your heart pound against your chest. Why would he come with you? You could handle yourself if anything happened plus you had your hellhound and your katana. His expression seemed cold and unbothered by what he had said. 

After Sukuna discussed directions to his home with Geto you both got in the car and headed out after everyone vanished quickly. Leaving the area your mind couldn’t stop the racing thoughts of Sukuna between him offering to go to the store with you to staring at you. His demeanor didn't match his words he had said. How could the king of curses want to go with you? You shrugged off the thoughts and watched nature as your drove through the forest up the mountain.  

[phantom-z0ne]

“A spark ran through his spine as he stared into those cerulean eyes. They bore through him, almost as if they were staring straight through his soul. Observing and judging, ultimately deeming him beneath the owner of those crystalline eyes. Those strangely familiar eyes of his sent a shock through his brain as he tried desperately to remember where he saw them. They were important to him, he knows that. But where had he seen them from?” Or, the Suguru Geto reincarnation fic literally nobody asked for.

Chapter 1: Arc 1-01

CW: Implied/Referenced homelessness, murder, slavery, starvation, cannibalism(?)

Shen Jiu’s fan snapped close with an almighty crack, one hand tightly clutching the fan and the other holding his uncompleted assignments as his face twisted into a scowl.

"I believe that you’ve completed your task, Liu-shidi," He declared, giving no time for Liu Ruan to interrupt, he continued. "Are you going to leave, or did you plan on becoming a disciple of this peak?"

"You-!" Liu Ruan sputtered, taken aback by the statement. His eyes shone with irritation. He was proud of his placement on Bai Zhan Peak, why would he ever want to be a Qing Jing Peak disciple? Especially if he was there?

Shen Jiu’s relationship with Liu Ruan hadn’t always been so antagonistic. When Shen Jiu first entered the sect, they were civil to each other, nodding in greeting if they saw each other. There were assumptions made about each other, naturally, as one does. Shen Jiu believed Liu Ruan was at the sect due to connections while Liu Ruan believed Shen Jiu to be another delicate young master. Though they kept that to themselves, at first.

That all changed, however, a couple months into Shen Jiu’s stay at Qing Jing Peak. Shen Jiu could tolerate some remarks about his appearance or his personality from Liu Ruan, after all, many people had already made comments about it since he arrived at the sect. However, one thing Shen Jiu would never tolerate was someone mocking his cultivation. 

Their cordial relationship went up in flames the moment Liu Ruan commented about Shen Jiu’s weaker cultivation and Shen Jiu bit back at him viciously. One comment escalated into every encounter of theirs ending in a fight,whether physical or verbal.

The final nail in the coffin for Shen Jiu was Liu Ruan criticizing him after every fight. Believing that any move of his was dishonorable or underhanded. He spoke about it, loudly, to anyone who would listen. This is what made Shen Jiu believe that their relationship was unsalvageable.

"We would appreciate it if you could return to your peak, Liu-shidi." Xiang Mei, a soft-spoken disciple, intervened. She stood a step before Shen Jiu, managing to sneak up on both young men without them noticing. "You are interrupting our study time and making a scene."

Liu Ruan startled at her presence and quickly looked around, noticing the small crowd he had gathered. Many were whispering and looking curiously between him and Shen Jiu. He flushed, embarrassed, and turned back to Shen Jiu and Xiang Mei.

"I-!" he began, though getting cut off once more.

"I believe it is best for you to leave before you cause a larger commotion.'' Xiang Mei interjected coolly, determined to quickly end the conversation.

Liu Ruan curled his fist, taking a deep breath. Slowly, he released. His breathing coming out much steadier.

"Forgive this shidi for causing a scene. I will be taking my leave." Liu Ruan spoke haltingly, much more composed than earlier, and bowing slightly to Xiang Mei.

Shen Jiu released the tight hold on his fan, lifting it to his left ear(1), watching the interaction take place. His eyebrows rose slightly at the bow. He hadn't thought Liu Ruan would display any manners towards a Qing Jing peak member. His dislike of them was not a secret, though much of that dislike could have stemmed from Liu Ruan’s relationship with him.

Liu Ruan frowned at the display, opening his mouth to retort but quickly shutting it, taking in Xiang Mei’s expression. Her eyes were cold and sharp, as if daring him to say another word. He knew better than to begin another argument, especially if she was around. Xiang Mei was known to dislike conflict between peers, going as far as getting physically involved to stop it.

Shen Jiu absently watched as Liu Ruan hurriedly left, reminiscing about how his life got to this point.

He hates to even think about this, but he was lucky that he met Yue Qi that fateful day, even if he is still enraged by his betrayal. The past year was quite the upgrade from being a slave turned demonic cultivator. He had his own personal space, no one on the peak would go through his belongings, without punishment of course. He was careful of his belongings. It helped that they believed it was below them to act as a thief. Besides his accommodations, he has a steady supply of food. There isn't any need to appropriate food or money since there are monthly allowances for all disciples.

Not to mention the unregulated access to the library. He always had an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. Living on the streets, all he could do was steal a couple books to feed that thirst. Sometimes, he was caught in the act, or his small collection of books was stolen by the other street rats. Though he couldn't fault them for also wanting to learn without being a hypocrite. He had just wished they didn’t take it from him.

His life before his arrival at the sect was unpleasant, to say the least. Especially compared to his life now. Being a demonic cultivator was a completely different experience than being a spiritual cultivator. Not to mention the monster named Wu Yanzi that he traveled with. Theft and murder weren't the worst he forced Shen Jiu to do. The worst experience, in Shen Jiu’s opinion, was the way he was forced to cultivate. Wu Yanzi hunting minor demons and shoving them down his throat. He had to either quickly absorb it or die.

He still remembers the disgusting taste. His stomach still churns to this day thinking about it. The oil-like liquid rolling down his throat, it's grimy, viscous texture settling in his—

She Jiu was torn out of his thoughts by the pressure placed on his shoulder. Looking to his side, he saw Xiang Mei looking at him with quiet concern, her hand resting gently on him. He quickly wiped his expression and put on a neutral face, opening and waving his fan languidly above his chest(2). 

"Are you-?" She started to ask, worried.

"It's nothing." He cut in. His shoulders hiking up minisculely, fanning himself faster.

She blinked, noticing his defensive behavior. Ah, she was too direct. Maybe she should change the subject? She smiled, hoping that he took that as a sign to relax. He did.

"Do you have anywhere to be?" She asked. "I was planning to visit the library to complete some work. Would you like to join me?"

She paused, taking in his expression. He seemed startled, and maybe a bit undecided.

"I do have a prior commitment." He began hesitantly, glancing down at the uncompleted assignments in his hand.

Ah, she shoved down her disappointment, forcing her smile not to wane. She wouldn't want to force him into spending time with her. Maybe she’ll ask him for his company another time.

He continued, though, surprising her.

"I can reschedule it, however." Shen Jiu watched in amusement as she lit up. He was a bit uncertain, but he’ll give her a chance. After all, she did defend him. He should return the favor and accompany her for the time being. 

She quickly led Shen Jiu in the direction of the library, practically vibrating in happiness. He quickly latched his fan to his belt after closing it, hurrying after her. They arrived quickly and helped themselves in.

They swiftly piled their assignments on the large table they chose. Shen Jiu was stunned at the amount of work she had to complete. When asked why she was made to do a larger workload than other disciples, she sheepishly smiled and told him she put them off till the last minute. That earned her an eye roll from Shen Jiu.

They chatted for a while before they quieted down, beginning to work on their assignments. Some of the disciples who knew Xiang Mei came up to greet her, also talking with Shen Jiu, to which he responded in kind. They sat down with Shen Jiu and Xiang Mei to also do their work, occasionally starting up a conversation with them. It bewildered him since he is usually left alone by his fellow disciples, but it was a welcome surprise.

The other disciples eventually left after they were done with their work. Shen Jiu picked some books to read after he too completed his work, reading them while waiting for Xiang Mei to finish.

The rest of the day passed by in a blur, surprising both Shen Jiu and Xiang Mei. They went their separate ways, happy with how the day went. Perhaps he would seek her out again, she was pleasant company.

Note that I stretched the timeline of SVSSS by about twenty to thirty. It just didn't make sense to me for Shen Qingqiu to be in his late twenties to early thirties while being a Peak Leader, especially when he joined the sect in his late teens and he resides in a cultivation novel where cultivators can live for hundreds of years.

Thanks for reading ^^

1) A fan being placed to the left ear can be interpreted as 'I wish to get rid of you'.

2) A fan being waved above a chest can be interpreted as the users mood being calm, or at least a projected calm.

Masterpost | Chapter 2 >>

[phantom-z0ne]

“A spark ran through his spine as he stared into those cerulean eyes. They bore through him, almost as if they were staring straight through his soul. Observing and judging, ultimately deeming him beneath the owner of those crystalline eyes. Those strangely familiar eyes of his sent a shock through his brain as he tried desperately to remember where he saw them. They were important to him, he knows that. But where had he seen them from?” Or, the Suguru Geto reincarnation fic literally nobody asked for.

Chapter 1: Arc 1-01

Chapter 2: Arc 1-02

Chapter 3: Arc 1-03

Chapter 4: Arc 1-04

Chapter 5: Arc 1-05

Chapter 6: Arc 1-06

[phantom-z0ne]

Chapter 5: Arc 1-05

CW: Violence, Injury

Immortal Alliance Conference Part 3

The past three days had been unexpectedly smooth sailing, Shen Jiu and Qi Tiaojian effortlessly defeating beasts and collecting their beads. That should have been the first sign that something would go wrong.

The trek wasn't quiet, to Shen Jiu's exasperation, Qi Tiaojian unable to keep his comments to himself. He was used to the quiet but the past few days had him accustomed to the chatter.

Their days were rarely dull, even if they did the same thing each day. They admired the scenery and made quick progress through the gorge. Hunting any beast they came across and quickly defeating it, the bounty split evenly between themselves. They spoke under the candlelight, entertaining themselves with stories or simply strumming their instruments. Their time together was surprisingly peaceful, despite Qi Tiaojian managing to get on Shen Jiu's nerves from time to time, as they got used to each other.

Unfortunately, such peace couldn't last for long.

As Qi Tiaojian pointed out another unusually large flock of birds flying past, he suddenly paused, looking towards something in the distance. Shen Jiu also paused, turning towards Qi Tiaojian in question.

Shen Jiu almost asked why they stopped when he felt a strange disturbance, the thick smell of smoke permeated the area. Quickly, he scanned the area with his qi, searching for the source. Sucking a sharp breath through his teeth, he yelled out, instructing Qi Tiaojian to quickly look for higher grounds.

They ran, a stampede of demonic beasts forming distantly behind them, growing ever closer with every step. There was no time to pull out their swords and fly away nor any space, a thick forest one of the few places where sword flight wasn't possible. Shen Jiu could feel some of the smaller, more agile demonic beasts nipping at his ankles before surpassing him. The shadows of airborne beasts covered him and Qi Tiaojian as they flew overhead.

He could feel himself slowing down, not used to running such distances despite cultivation making his body more durable. At this rate, they would be trampled to death in the middle of the herd.

"To your left!" Qi Tiaojian's hoarse shout sounded from his side. Shen Jiu automatically followed his direction, splitting away from the forest and sprinting full speed towards a cliff. Unsheathing his sword, he infused his qi into it and threw it ahead of him. Swiftly leaping atop it, he rose into the air, putting space between him and the beasts. He could tell Qi Tiaojian did the same, movement from the corner of his eye alerting him of his actions, though he was more focused on catching his breath.

They breathed heavily, watching as the horde of beasts passed by underneath them, a couple falling off the cliff due to being pushed from the edge of the crowd. The higher ground gave them clear sight to see what the beasts were running from. A blazing forest fire. With the way multiple qi signatures twined within the fire, there was no way it was natural. Most likely, a joint attack had failed due to poor aim, ending up with the forest catching on fire. Why they didn't put it out before it got this large was anyone's guess.

As they pulled themselves together, Qi Tiaojian finally spoke, pointing to a burnt section of the forest, diagonal from the path the beasts were marching. "I sense agitated demonic qi in that area. Are you feeling well enough to attempt an ambush?"

Shen Jiu nodded, smoothing out his rumpled robes and spreading his qi throughout his body, quickly getting rid of his aches. They had to be vigilant while making their way over, many airborne beasts still lingered, flying in lazy circles overhead. They would be an easy mark for those beasts if they remained in place for too long.

The flight wasn't too long, not even a quarter of a sichen(1). They had a rough landing, having to avoid the claws of an avian demon that followed them looking for an easy snack. Their surroundings, however, were thankfully empty of any demonic threats. At least, until they discover the beast they were hunting.

Shen Jiu held out his hand for Qi Tiaojian who had stumbled onto the burnt ground when he was dodging the avian beast. He hauled himself up with an energetic thanks before gesturing to his left, "It should be that way."

Shen Jiu hummed, pursing his lips at the ash clinging to his and Qi Tiaojian's robes before dismissing it. Finding the demonic beast and harvesting its bead was more important than worrying about some filthy robes. Besides, their robes would get even dirtier while they fight anyway.

Shen Jiu did his best to avoid any charred objects on the forest floor that would make a noise, he didn't want the demonic beast to know of their ambush. On that thought, he advised Qi Tiaojian to wrap his qi tightly around himself to avoid his scent from leaking out. Qi Tiaojian tittered curiously but took his advice, Shen Jiu only having to correct him once before he perfected the technique.

It wasn't too hard to find the source of the agitated qi, Qi Tiaojian leading them to a desolate cave entrance. They crouched down behind a row of burnt trees, surveying their surroundings. Fallen trees blocked most of the dark entrance and the surroundings were burnt to a crisp, though Shen Jiu could see thick gouges lining the stone walls.

Shen Jiu furrowed his brows, thinking of a way to lure the beast out. From what he could tell, this was a large mammalian beast and an omnivore from the bones and fruit skins peeking out from the little gaps between the trees. Perhaps he could lead it into an ambush with food? He was sure he had a couple of fruits left in his qiankun pouch. It would definitely need food since all the plants have burnt to ash and there is no more prey in the area.

"What are you thinking, Jiu'er?" Qi Tiaojian whispered teasingly. Shen Jiu's face twisted in annoyance. He had thought his reaction the last time Qi Tiaojian tried to call him that would discourage him from using that nickname. Unfortunately, it seemed Qi Tiaojian didn't learn. He had been using that nickname since the second day they decided to work together despite Shen Jiu's protests. Ultimately, Shen Jiu decided to ignore it, hoping that the nickname would eventually be dropped. Clearly, Qi Tiaojian was just trying to get a reaction from him.

"We need to lure it out of its cave. Fighting it in its territory is suicide." Shen Jiu stated.

Qi Tiaojian hummed, looking analytically at the dark cave, weimao rustling in the wind. "Should we use food? Or smoke it out with fire?"

"I don't think fire can affect it, or else it would have been with the fleeing beasts." Shen Jiu answered, "Using food would work the best, but if that doesn't work, we can try flushing it out by collapsing the cave. But that can attract unwanted attention."

"I see…" Qi Tiaojian muttered, rubbing his fingers together. "I can help waft the scent of the food with my qi, but I don't have anything explosive on me."

"That is alright. We might not need it if our plan works." Shen Jiu said, rummaging through his qiankun pouch. Just as he pulled out his last fruit, a loud crack echoed to Shen Jiu's right. Snapping his head to the side, Shen Jiu drew his swords and drew himself and Qi Tiaojian closer to the shadows of the trees.

Straining his ears, Shen Jiu heard the rustle of crisp leaves being crushed underfoot. Quiet murmuring sounded, before a familiar group rounded, with an addition of a couple of unfamiliar faces.

Shen Jiu let go of the tight hold on his sword, though didn't sheath it, and slid out of the shadows enough to be seen. Yue Qi and his group were accompanied by a group of cultivators he hadn't seen before. There was an obvious tension between the two groups, subtle glares were shot and a space between them that wasn't breached by either group.

Shen Jiu watched Yue Qi brighten when he spotted him, cutting off a member of the unknown group to yell out his name and alerting the rest of the cultivators to his presence, Qi Tiaojian having yet to separate from the shadows. Many reached for their weapons at the sight of his sudden appearance, though Shen Jiu observed only Yue Qi and the An Ding disciple he made a note of days before didn't.

"How are you, Shen-shidi?" Yue Qi asked as he bounded up to him. Thankfully, he dropped the awful nickname he liked to use. If only a certain someone could use him as an example…

"I am well." Shen Jiu answered simply, Qi Tiaojian taking this moment to join him. "Were you also swept here by the fire?"

"Ah, yes… This is?" Yue Qi was clearly bewildered that he had a teammate, his gaze oscillating between him and Qi Tiaojian. It made Shen Jiu feel off, as if a heavy ball of lead was forming in his stomach.

"Qi Tiaojian, Jiu'er's companion!" He said enthusiastically, settling his arm on Shen Jiu's shoulder as he leaned forward. Shen Jiu heard a harsh breath of surprise from the surrounding disciples before whispering began. "You?"

Yue Qi's eyes widened at the nickname, taking notice of Shen Jiu's indifferent expression. A strained smile spread across his face as he greeted Qi Tiaojian, "I hadn't thought I would meet such an esteemed cultivator such as yourself, Qi Tiaojian-xiānshēng(2). I am Yue Qi of Cang Qiong Mountain."

'Esteemed cultivator?' Shen Jiu wondered. He couldn't really call Qi Tiaojian that.

Yue Qi spread his arm towards his teammates, their whispering instantly being silenced once they were in the spotlight. "And these are my teammates."

They took turns introducing themselves, Qi Jiao presenting herself first. The An Ding disciple went next, simply stating his name, Shang Xiaoxiong, with a greeting. Huan Tang stuttered out his name while Wei Weiwu fidgeted at all the eyes on him.

The last cultivator, Shen Jiu was peripherally aware of due to him also being a Qing Jing disciple. Huan Youli was known for his martial prowess, so his involvement in the Immortal Alliance Conference wasn't surprising.

A brief silence settled over them as they waited for the last group of cultivators to introduce themselves. One of the members jolted when the rest of his group looked towards him, scrambling to introduce himself with a heated face. The rest followed his lead smoothly, though some glanced uncertainly at the Cang Qiong disciples.

They were cultivators from a smaller sect, Clear Water Pavilion, and had run into Yue Qi's team due to the forest fire. Apparently, a few members of their group were almost lost to the fire. They were thought to be demonic beasts by Yue Qi's team and were subsequently attacked. Thankfully, none of their members were seriously hurt and they got away with little injuries.

"Had we not already apologized and allowed you to stay by us while the fire passes?" Qi Jiao interrupted the cultivator, irritation showing on her face, "Who was it that started the fire to begin with?"

A younger cultivator ducked her face down, embarrassed. The rest of her teammates frowned at Qi Jiao, quick to form a rebuttal to protect their fellow disciple. The young cultivator was likely the one who set fire to the forest, Shen Jiu mused, absentmindedly detaching Qi Tiaojian's arm from his body as he sheathed his sword. Qi Tiaojian didn't seem to notice, too engrossed in watching the two groups air out their grievances.

The Clear Water Pavilion disciples seemed wary of provoking disciples of one of the biggest sects, however with more of Yue Qi's teammates joining in despite him trying to soothe the situation, an argument was bound to occur. Shen Jiu pulled Qi Tiaojian along with him a few steps away from the raised voices, watching with derision from a safer distance. At the rate they were going, they would argue long into the night and not have any time to set up camp.

"Say," Qi Tiaojian began, tapping his cheek over his weimao. "Wouldn't this be the perfect time to attack the demon?"

Shen Jiu blinked, sending a discrete wave of qi towards the cave entrance, eyebrows shooting up when he found it blown wide open. He hadn't sensed it leaving its cave, though he supposes he was paying too much attention to the dispute.

Shen Jiu drew his sword, unnoticed by anyone but his teammate. "Its location?"

"East of the Clear Water Pavilion disciples. Look up." Qi Tiaojian whispered, leaning closer so only Shen Jiu could hear. Shen Jiu subtly glanced in that direction as he feigned interest in the argument, almost missing the beast despite looking for it. It blended alarmingly well into the landscape, looking like just another burnt tree. Its beady eyes roved over the small group of cultivators as if deciding which one to make a meal out of first.

Shen Jiu identified the Ruby Jeweled Earth Bear easily, its striking red eyes and namesake nestled against its chest a dead giveaway. The claws of the Ruby Jeweled Earth Bear were quite famous, said to be able to gouge through any material. Just one claw would fetch nearly a thousand spirit stones(3)! The rest of the body was usually processed to create fabric or jewelry which would also be sold at a high price. Either way, encountering a Ruby Jeweled Earth Bear was celebrated by many.

They weren't known for eating cultivators, or humans really, but it made sense that it targeted them if he thought about it. It wouldn't have any success with hunting, with the fire having chased away its prey. A group of loud humans gathering in front of its nest would seem enticing.

Shen Jiu casually weaved unnoticed around the burnt trees while taking great care to cover his scent, bears of any kind had strong noses. Qi Tiaojian followed his lead, taking the opposite route to trap the beast between them, using the same technique they'd done many times in the past few days. Careful not to step on anything that would alert the beast, Shen Jiu rounded a tree that was close to where he wanted to attack from. Being so close to the demonic beast, he would need to be even more cautious of arousing its suspicions.

Shen Jiu used the brief stop to check on his teammate's position, confirming that he was also hidden away from the bear's line of sight. However, he noticed two cultivators whipping their heads around, searching for something. Unfortunately, this led to them making eye contact with the beast and screaming in shock, prompting it to leap for the cultivators before he and Qi Tiaojian could get into position.

He let out a frustrated breath before diving after the beast. Landing a good strike on its hind leg, dodging to his right when the beast let out a deafening roar and aimed for him. From the corner of his eye, he could tell the Clear Water Pavilion disciples were in the process of setting up an array(4) while the Cang Qiong disciples got into battle formation.

Qi Tiaojian landed next to him, having to dodge a fireball after landing an overhead hit on the beast. A quick glance showed he was alright. The beast roared once more in anger, the fireball flowing off its back. It seemed he was right; fire didn't affect the beast.

The bear charged, aiming for the startled Clear Water Pavilion disciples. A quick blast of wind from Shen Jiu altered its course, making it ram into the burnt trees and uprooting some of them. Yue Qi and his team took this moment to attack, making ribbons out of the beast's back and dashing out of range when it clawed at them. The bear huffed, breathing heavily, its imposing figure bloody. Digging its claws into the dirt, the bear stood still, confusing the cultivators that encircled it.

Shen Jiu inhaled sharply, feeling the surrounding qi flow around the bear and into the earth. Qi Tiaojian seemed just as surprised, looking at him as if to confirm they felt the same thing. How had he forgotten that the Ruby Jeweled Earth Bear had a special attack that it used when threatened?

"Move! Now!" Shen Jiu shouted, falling back with Qi Tiaojian as the other cultivators realized what was happening. Sharp earthen spikes rose from the ground at an alarming pace, getting closer and closer to the retreating cultivators. A cry of surprise rose from one of the cultivators followed by a loud thud. Looking back, a younger male cultivator had fallen over, the earthen spikes dangerously close. He won't make it in time, Shen Jiu realized with a jolt.

The cultivator's fellow disciples hadn't turned around, continuing to flee from the beast. Nobody but him and Qi Tiaojian had noticed his fall, and if they did, they didn't bother turning around. Glancing at his partner, it was clear that he wasn't planning on helping the younger cultivator. Shen Jiu weighed the odds of anyone willing to help the cultivator, then sighed, heading towards the fallen cultivator.

Grabbing the cultivator's arm, Shen Jiu slung it over his shoulder, helping the cultivator limp over to where the rest of his team was situated. A sharp spike of qi was the only warning he had before he dodged sideways, though unable to fully avoid the earthen spike. White hot pain ran through his arm, blood soaking his robes. Shen Jiu grit his teeth and continued, ignoring the shout of his name from the irritatingly familiar voice.

Shen Jiu weaved through the rest of the earthen spikes, taking great care not to jostle both his and the cultivator's wounds. Finally, he handed the cultivator to one of his fellow disciples, a strict looking female with hair tied up into a thick ponytail. She handled her teammate with care, gently steadying him and mimicking his position earlier.

As he turned around to walk towards his own teammate, he heard a thank you from the woman he handed the wounded cultivator to. She stared at him steadily, waiting for a response. Shen Jiu raised his eyebrows and responded, "I wasn't the one who should have helped him." The other cultivators looked away shame-faced.

"And yet you did." She replied, her back straight.

"I will not forget your assistance." The cultivator he helped added in, stumbling to get closer to him. He wobbled into a bow, "This one is named Chang Huizhong of Clear Water Pavilion. If you are in need of aid in the future, I will do my best to provide."

Shen Jiu pursed his lips, uncomfortable from Chang Huizhong's clear gaze.

"Think nothing of it." He said simply, turning back to the battle that was raging. Jumping into the fray, Shen Jiu aimed a sharpened blade against the beast's neck. Predictably, it bounced off the thick neck, but did make sure the beast turned its attention away from the cultivators it nearly mauled.

Shen Jiu rolled under an attack, standing on the balls of his heels beside his teammate. He can tell Qi Tiaojian was glancing at his wound, despite the weimao obscuring his features, but ignored it for now. He can bandage his shoulder after they defeat the demonic beast. For now, he just cycled qi around the wound.

From there, the battle went smoothly, the cultivators taking turns to attack the beast and dodging when it unleashed a desperate attack. With one final strike from Qi Tiaojian, the bear went down with a thud, a pool of blood expanding as its heart beat for the last time. By that point, most of the cultivators were breathing heavily, the Clear Water Pavilion disciples having to duck out of the fight from qi exhaustion.

Plucking the bead from the dead beast's neck, Shen Jiu raised it to Qi Tiaojian in askance, pocketing it when he shook his head. Harvesting ten claws, Shen Jiu threw them into his qiankun pouch and turned to the rest of the cultivators after sheathing his blade. "Take what you want from the beast, it is your portion for fighting with us."

Qi Jiao's indignant shout was interrupted by Yue Qi's concern for his well being, "Are you alright Shen-shidi? Your shoulder…"

"It will be fine." Shen Jiu answered coolly, not in the mood to be the subject of fussing.

Yue Qi chewed on his lower lip, his eyes lingering on Shen Jiu's wound. "Are you sure you do not want to travel with us? It will be safer."

"I have already given you my answer the first time you asked." Shen Jiu watched Yue Qi wilted a little before letting out a sigh. "I'll see you at the end of the conference."

Qi Tiaojian waved cheekily at a beaming Yue Qi as they walked away, Shen Jiu giving him an unimpressed look. The first thing they had to do was look for a place to make camp, the sun had already dipped beyond the horizons, darkening their surroundings. He needed to wrap his wounds soon, he was becoming woozy from the bloodloss.

"The cave." Shen Jiu said suddenly. Qi Tiaojian hummed questioningly, wondering why he suddenly brought it up.

"We can use it as shelter." Shen Jiu explained, "There is likely no beast that will approach it because the Ruby Jeweled Earth Bear's scent still lingers."

"It would work." Qi Tiaojian said thoughtfully, "If any beast does wander back here, they would be more drawn to the bloody scent than the cave."

"It's a bit risky with the corpse being close to the cave, but we don't have any time to look for a better place. The sun has already set." Shen Jiu pointed out. It was rapidly getting darker. Soon they would barely be able to see anything in front of them. In that state, they would be easy pickings for any nocturnal demonic beasts.

The cave was just a few minutes walk away. It stank of the beast and fur layered over most of the entrance along with bones and crushed fruits. Unless they cleaned the mess up, they wouldn't be able to wash themselves of the filth from the fight earlier.

Spotting a slight glow in the distance, Qi Tiaojian grabbed Shen Jiu's uninjured arm and pulled him along. A breathtaking scene opened up before their eyes, a brightly lit underground lake spilt as far as their eyes could see, its reflection moving hypnotically on the cave ceiling that bore jagged stalactites. Small glowing bugs flit across the sea colored crystals that lined the walls, gnawing on the bright blue moss growing at their base. Peering into the transparent water, you could see small, colorful fish dart between leafy stalks that moved to an unheard tune.

Shen Jiu let out an awed breath, he had never seen such a wonderful sight. Two years earlier, he had been scavenging around in the dirty underbellies of cities. After he arrived at Cang Qiong Mountain, he hadn't had any opportunity to travel and take in the sights, just cooped up in the sect learning how to cultivate. Attending the Immortal Alliance Conference was the first time he left the sect since he joined, in fact.

A tug on his robes snapped him out of his trance, Qi Tiaojian demanding, "Show me your shoulder. I need to check how bad it is."

Shen Jiu froze. To do that, he would have to remove his robes and show his back. He had never revealed his back to but one person, one who eventually turned his back on him. Shen Jiu only knew Qi Tiaojian for three days compared to the years he knew Yue Qi. And despite the odd sense of familiarity, he didn't know if he could trust him to tend to his wounds. Then again, he did trust him to guard him in his sleep…

"I can do it myself." Shen Jiu replied testily, smoothing his robes with his uninjured arm.

"Nonsense. There's no way you can stretch your arm behind yourself without pain." Qi Tiaojian placed his hands on his hips. Shen Jiu's lip twitched, annoyed that Qi Tiaojian caught onto that.

"It will heal anyways. A little pain doesn't matter." Shen Jiu could feel the disapproval emanating from Qi Tiaojian.

Shen Jiu rubbed the fabric of his robes between his fingers. During their time together, Qi Tiaojian hadn't done anything he wasn't comfortable with. In fact, it was as if he knew what to avoid to not upset him. Even though he annoyed him at times, it was clearly just a part of his personality, not a pointed jab against Shen Jiu. After all, he wouldn't let someone like that stick around him for so long. Still, his feelings on Qi Tiaojian were conflicting. Should he let him grow closer and suffer the eventual pain of being betrayed? Or should he just push him away to never feel that pain once again?

Shen Jiu glanced at his teammate and let out a deep exhale, mind made up. He relented his care to Qi Tiaojian, who clearly smiled once he got his way.

Stripping off the top of his robes, he tensed instinctively, ready to hear the gasp of surprise or a pitying remark in reaction to the scarred back he gained when he was a slave. Instead, there was nothing. Not a sound or phrase other than the rummaging of a bag.

A cold sensation jolted him out of his thoughts, the healing salve being spread across his wounds. He could feel the foreign qi stitching his flesh back together alongside his own qi. Another rustle of a bag and a clean bandage wrapped around his shoulder, wincing when it was tied tightly. He supposes he was lucky that he hadn't been injured until five days into the conference.

Redressing in clean robes, Shen Jiu smoothed them out with his hands, back straight as his gaze wandered to everything but his teammate.

Pursing his lips, he muttered, "Thank you…"

"Hmm?" Qi Tiaojian asked innocently, leaning forward and cupping his hand around his ear. "What was that?"

"Thank you!" Shen Jiu said through gritted teeth, turning around to set up the sleeping quarters. Qi Tiaojian's clear laugh echoed in the well lit cave.

I was debating on Qi Tiaojian's nickname for Shen Jiu being either A-jiu or Jiu'er. Xiao Jiu was already taken and some of the other affectionate terms were for elders and children specifically or just didnt fit with his character. Eventually, I settled on Jiu'er since it flows better.

Also, please tell me if the dialogue is stilted or just off. I have a hard time making dialogue and would appreciate some feedback. ^^

Thanks for reading and Ramadan Mubarak to those who observe it!

1) A sichen is two hours which means the flight took them around 30 minutes to complete.

2) Xiānshēng is used as a term of respect among colleagues addressing each other as peers. Also used as a courtesy title for a man of respected stature.

3) Spirit stones are the most common currency used in the cultivation world. They can be exchanged with mortal money (gold/silver/bronze) and vice versa.

4) An array in cultivation is a magical formation or spell that cultivators use to increase their power or produce a wide range of effects when activated.

<< Chapter 4 | Masterpost | Chapter 6 >>

[phantom-z0ne]

Chapter 4: Arc 1-04

CW: Violence

Immortal Alliance Conference Part 2

Only two days into the competition and Shen Jiu was sorely regretting rejecting Yue Qi’s offer to join his team. Not that he would ever admit that out loud.

He quickly dodged a slash from the left, ducking behind a tree for cover as the beast began to look for him, wanting to devour him. 

He promptly struck while its back was turned, severing its leg. It roared in pain, searching for where its prey was hiding, its speed greatly reduced due to the lack of a limb. Shen Jiu struck twice more, though only one hitting a vital area. Purple blood strained his sword, the origin screaming in anger and pain.

Shen Jiu cursed his luck, of all the beasts to run into and it had to be an Iron-Skulled Mantis. It gained its name from its unusually hard skull. Usually, insect demonic beasts are easy to defeat, a quick strike to its soft head and the battle is finished or hiding until it wanders off. However, this one was already enraged since he inflicted wounds onto it. It wouldn't be forgetting him anytime soon.

Shen Jiu swore, the beast already atop him, readying his sword to strike when the beast's head exploded, splashing him with its fluids. He grimaced, wondering how long he had to wash it off before another beast came due to the scent. He was lucky he shielded his face with his battle fan and it only landed on his outer robes, he couldn't imagine how disgusting it would feel on bare skin. He discarded his dirty fan, throwing it into his storage bag before quickly scanning his surroundings for threats.

He looked around warily, whoever or whatever saved him must still be around. He was right as a person emerged from the bushes, brushing off leaves and other foliage from their robes, their sword still in hand. 

Shen Jiu stared at the person warily while remembering his strange encounter two days ago, wondering why the stranger appeared in front of him again. The gorge was large enough that hundreds of people could not bump into each other again if they tried, let alone two people who didn't know each other before their first encounter two days ago. It's as if they met due to fate. He quickly shook that thought out of his head, he couldn't be thinking ridiculous things at the moment. 

After a couple seconds of staring at each other, the young man rested his hands on his cocked hips and spoke, “What, no thank you to your savior?” 

Shen Jiu’s eye twitched, irritated after not even a minute into the conversation. 

“Why do you gain from helping me?” Shen Jiu asked, suspicious of the stranger’s timing. He was battling the beast for some time, so for the stranger to save him at such a critical moment? It was suspicious. How long had he been observing him, waiting for the time to strike? 

He quickly glanced at the stranger's wrist, only a couple of golden beads hung on the band, before looking at his own discreetly. He had quite a few more than the stranger. Was it possible that he was tailing him to steal his beads? Then why would he save him? To lower his guard and steal them while he was unaware? No, he appeared to have the strength to get his own beads, Shen Jiu thought as he caught a glimpse of the corpse from the edge of his view.

His thoughts were cut off as the stranger spoke flippantly, waving his hand around as if to swat a fly, “I was walking around until I saw the beast. You were just in the way.”

Shen Jiu’s temple twitched as he fought to keep his expression civil, grinding his teeth at the comment. His sword, however, stayed in his hand. This could still be a ruse to distract him before striking and stealing his hard-earned beads. 

“I see. You can carry on your way.” Shen Jiu replied evenly, wanting to get rid of him and the danger he posed. Plus, he would like to change out of his ruined robes in peace. 

“Whaaat?” The stranger’s voice pitched annoyingly high, “You want me gone so soon?”

“Do you not have other beasts to hunt?” Shen Jiu raised his eyebrow, looking pointedly at the band on the stranger's wrist. “Not to mention we do not know each other. Why would I wish for you to stay?”

“Qi Tiaojian.”

Shen Jiu’s eyes snapped back towards the man’s face, or the approximate area of his weimao, “What?” He let out, started by the admission.

“Qi Tiaojian, my name." He tilted his head, the gesture feeling mocking.

“I know it was your name. Why are you telling me?” Shen Jiu responded, feeling irritated at the slight. 

“You said we don't know each other,” Qi Tiaojian stated guilelessly, “Aren't you going to tell me your name?”

Shen Jiu rolled his eyes, reflexively running his hands over his robes before he paused, remembering the blood on them and dirtying his hands. He scowled, looking at the reason for his ruined robes. 

Qi Tiaojian stared back innocently.

“I don't have time for this.” Shen Jiu sighed. He turned around, walking away, his guard still up in case he was attacked from behind. “Go find some beasts to fight.”

As he marched across the forest, he heard footsteps behind him. He was being followed, he thought annoyed. Deciding to ignore the veiled stranger, he continued, tense and awaiting an attack. Minutes passed as the footsteps continued before Shen Jiu finally gave in and whirled around, coming face to face with Qi Tiaojian.

“Why are you following me?” Shen Jiu spat, irritated, his eyes narrowing. He palmed his sword, reading himself for a fight. It didn't make sense, he thought. He had all this time to attack while my back was turned, yet he didn't. What does he want?

Obnoxious laughter flowed out from under the weimao, “I'm tagging along, no?”

“No. Go away.” He responded coldly. The only thing he knows about this person is his name. Not to mention his suspicious behavior. He can't help but feel that he's heard that annoying laugh somewhere. Had they met before? Is that why Qi Tiaojian is pestering him?

“No way.” A smile present in his voice.

Exasperated, Shen Jiu turned around and stomped off, eager to get away from the annoyance named Qi Tiaojian. Qi Tiaojian following at a leisurely pace. 

Stewing in his thoughts and adamantly ignoring the person following him, Shen Jiu almost didn't react in time to dodge a claw aiming for his head. Dodging to the side, he drew his previously sheathed sword, feeling Qi Tiaojian getting in a battle position behind him.

“A Thousand-Eyed Moon Spider?!” Shen Jiu cried out, surprised at the rare beast's sudden appearance. 

“They aren't supposed to be in this area.” Qi Tiaojian responded quietly, subtly stepping forward next to Shen Jiu, careful not to set off the beast.

He was right, Thousand-Eyed Moon Spiders were rarely found in forests, preferring dry, stoney cliffs and caves. They were mainly ambush predators, though they weren't shy about a frontal attack. They were difficult to fight due to their highly corrosive acid attacks which earned them their name. Said acid was a thin milky, far-reaching liquid, many describing it as a moonbeam. Hence, the name.

The beast struck first, aiming for Shen Jiu. He sidestepped the strike, returning a blow and neatly cut off the appendage. It shrieked, enraged at the loss of a limb and pain. Doubling its efforts, it didn't notice Qi Tiaojian sneaking behind it until it felt another burst of pain in its legs. Turning around, it let out its signature attack, a spray of acid coating the place Qi Tioajian stood just seconds before. 

Shen Jiu took this opportunity to slice as many of the eyes it had as he could, angering it even further. With the beast continuing to alter between the attacks of the two young men, it was helpless to stop the many wounds it was receiving, barely able to strike in between the onslaught of attacks.

They fought in a surprising harmony, as if instinctively knowing what moves the other would do. Weaving between the beast, they struck swiftly, the amount of wounds it received grew. Shen Jiu leapt towards the beast, delivering the final blow, cleanly cutting its thick head off. 

The corpse fell to the ground with a thud, the area silent except for the heavy breaths the young men let out. They stared at each other, surprised at how well they worked together. 

Qi Tiaojian let out a breathy laugh, breaking the silence. “So?”

“So?” Shen Jiu lifted an eyebrow, wondering what he was talking about.

“I was good, wasn't I?” Confidence filled his tone. His disheveled robes waved around with his movements.

Shen Jiu pursed his lips together, blaming adrenaline on the grin trying to spread across his face. Quickly smoothing over his expression, he responded. “I suppose you were an… adequate teammate.”

“Just adequate?” The smirk audible. 

Shen Jiu huffed and picked at his dirty robes. Deciding to ignore that comment, he continued, “We’ll have to find a place to dispose of these robes, it's likely what led the beast to us. Have you seen any sources of water around?”

“There should be a river ahead.” He gestured forward, teasingly adding, “After you.”

Rolling his eyes, Shen Jiu strolled forwards, walking at a brisk pace, wanting to change quickly out of his soiled robes. Glancing at the sky, he found he had a few hours before he had to set up camp. They set a quick pace, traversing the forest before arriving at a clearing, a waterfall off to the side. 

Ordering Qi Tiaojian to set up camp, which he eventually did with some bickering, Shen Jiu stood before the pool of water. Pulling out an obscuring talisman, he set about putting defenses around the pool to avoid being attacked while he was unaware before stripping and climbing into the water. As he washed, he considered his newest team member. They worked together surprisingly well for their first battle. The tacit understanding they had, though, baffled him. For their second meeting, they were in worryingly sync. It was concerning, if not intriguing. 

He slapped his cheeks twice, deciding to see how this companionship would pan out over the next few days. He wouldn't have much to lose if they decided to go their separate ways, anyways.

Thoroughly washing himself and making sure the bloody scent was no longer there, he redressed. Grabbing the discarded clothes, he set fire to them, watching them burn to ash. This way, no other beast would come after the scent of blood. He rejoined the camp after dismantling the defenses he set up. 

The sky slowly darkened, dusk making its way across the horizon. A fire was lit as they began to chat, though it was mostly bickering. Their banter almost familiar, vague impressions gathered at the tip of Shen Jiu’s mind before being swept away. A fuzzy feeling settled in his gut, the uncertainty and warmth making him feel lopsided and disoriented. He wasn't sure if he liked the feeling.

They talked over the plans for the rest of the competition till sunset before deciding to set up vigil over the campsite. You never knew if a beast would attack at night after all.

I had a bit of a hard time deciding what Gojo's new name would be since I can't just put his Japanese name in an ancient Chinese setting. Then I found this, which a redditor kindly posted the meaning of Gojo's name.

Satoru Gojo(悟五条): 「悟」 - perceive/understand/become enlightened,「五条」- term/requirement/condition Qi Tiaojian(啟條件): 「啟」- enlighten/awaken,「條件」- term/requirement/condition

I tried to make the meaning as close as possible, but note that I dont know any Chinese or Japanese so if Im wrong or misunderstand something, please correct me (´｡• ◡ •｡`)

<< Chapter 3 | Masterpost | Chapter 5 >>

[phantom-z0ne]

Chapter 2: Arc 1-02

"Psst."

Shen Jiu’s ear twitched, but the whisper was ignored.

"Psst!" Louder now.

The voice was still ignored.

Abruptly, a wad of paper landed on Shen Jiu’s temple and gently fell on the guqin that lay on his lap. He quickly picked it up before Shifu could see it and stuffed it in his sleeve.

Shen Jiu sighed and turned to the seat next to him, occupied by a disciple he has slowly gotten closer to over the past couple months. They were introduced to each other by Xiang Mei-shijie during his visit to the library.

"What do you want, Xin-shixiong?" He hissed, not wanting to disrupt the lesson and be punished for it. He didn't want to do a ridiculous amount of paperwork today.

"Have you heard?" Xin Xingfu asked softly, his face set in a mischievous expression.

"I can't talk to you right now." Shen Jiu answered in a hushed tone, but curiosity warred with discipline in his mind.

He paused for a moment, Xin Xingfu still smiling at him, his curiosity winning in the end despite the risk of being caught.

"What could be so important that you have to interrupt the lesson?" he questioned, leaning closer to Xin Xingfu.

Xin Xingfu opened his mouth, happily ready to answer-

"I would like to know that too." A deep voice spoke behind them.

Shen Jiu snapped back to his seat, eyes wide open. Slowly, he turned around, confirming who he heard. His Shifu, Quan Jigui, staring down at him. He schooled his face, apprehensive. Quan Jigui’s eyes briefly bore into his before Shen Jiu looked away.

The other disciples quieted down, curious about how the situation would develop with the slow strumming of strings halting. Shifu looked back at the class, his eyebrow raised, and asked, "Has the lesson ended?"

The sound of guqin strings hurriedly being strung returned, Shifu let out a breath.

Shen Jiu nervously exchanged a glance with Xin Xingfu, who was equally as nervous. A bashful smile emerged from Xin Xingfu when Shifu’s gaze lowered to him.

Shifu’s hands folded into his elbows, crossing his arms, and repeated the question.

"Ah, well… It's—it's nothing important!" Xin Xingfu stuttered out, sheepishly scratching the back of his head. His smile wavered the longer Quan Jigui coolly gazed at him.

Shen Jui watched the exchange, not wishing to be implicated in this.

Suddenly, Quan Jiqui sighed, his hands dropping to his sides.

"I won't punish you this time, since this is the first time you've done this." He addressed Shen Jiu. Shen Jui sighed in relief, glad that he was off the hook. He wouldn't talk to anyone during a lesson again. How nerve-wracking. His Shifu could be imposing when he tried.

"However, you—" he pointed at Xin Xingfu, who’s face dropped, "have a track record for talking during lessons. You’ll have to complete a ten page analysis of the migratory habits of Eastern Celestial Cranes, due in two days."

Both Shen Jiu and Xin Xingfu winced at the punishment. For Xin Xinfu, finishing an analysis in two days was unheard of. Not to mention the length. Xin Xinfu was notorious in Qing Jing Peak for struggling with such assignments.

"I- But… Okay. I'll have it for you in two days." He said sullenly, pouting all the while.

Quan Jiqui nodded and turned on his heels, marching to the front of the room, his expression amused as he spoke, "I expect that to be true."

Shen Jiu and Xin Xingfu stared at each other for a while, one unbelieving he got away with it while the other devastated that he was being punished, before they remembered to tune into the lesson.

The lesson flew by, and before Shen Jiu knew it, the lesson ended. His Shifu walked out of the room, his robes flowing elegantly behind him.

Xin Xingfu grabbed Shen Jiu’s arm while he was packing up his belongings, leaning on him while bemoaning the fact he had been punished.

"The reason you were punished was because you have a loose mouth." Shen Jui explained, trying to pry his shixiong off of him and failing. He settled for flicking his forehead.

"Ow!" He exclaimed, pouting once more. He clutched his forehead with one hand, giving Shen Jiu the opportunity to extract himself.

"What did you want to tell me so badly, anyway?" he asked, finally finishing putting his belongings away and quickly smoothing out his wrinkled robes.

Xin Xingfu leaned in with a mischievous smile, cupping his hand around his mouth, and answered in a stage whisper. "I heard a rumor that one of the Qiong Ding disciples is in a relationship with a Xian Shu disciple!"

"And?" Shen Jiu replied, giving his shixiong a look. It isn't unheard of for a Xian Shu disciple to be in a relationship, although they are determined to deny it. He let out a breath as they began walking to the door. They still had other lessons to attend.

"You don't want to know who they are?" Xing Xingfu whined obnoxiously.

Shen Jiu breathed another sigh and stared at him. "Alright. What are their names? Be quick, I have places to be."

He watched as his shixiong brightened, excited to share the gossip. He realized he was smiling and quickly wiped it off his face. He has a reputation to maintain, after all.

"I heard the Xian Shu disciple’s name is Qi Jiao, and the other is named, um—" he paused, thinking for a second before he snapped his fingers and exclaimed, "Yue Qi! Yeah, his name is Yue Qi!"

Oh. His face twisted into a scowl. He hadn’t wanted to hear about Yue Qi, especially his love life. With the way Yue Qi always pesters him with details of his personal life, he would have thought he would be the first to know. He couldn't bother to have told him? Of course not. It's Yue Qi. Since when would he have bothered to do anything for hi—

"What’s wrong, Shen-shidi?" Xin Xingfu asked innocently. Shen Jiu realized he had stopped in the middle of the hallway and abruptly began walking faster.

"Nothing. I just remembered I had to go to my lesson earlier than I thought. I'll see you later." He muttered out an excuse, quickly walked away as his shixiong reached for him at his heels.

"Ah… Wait." His arm lowered the farther his shidi had gone, puzzling over that reaction. Maybe he really needed to talk to the hallmaster at that lesson. Shen Jiu had arrived later than the rest of the Qing Jing disciples. He probably needed to make up some work. He shrugged it off before rushing to his own lesson.

Shen Jiu stormed off before Xi Xingfu could reach him, his mood becoming gloomy. 

He wasn't watching where he was going before he bumped into someone. Looking up angrily, he spotted the face of his Shifu. His eyes widened in surprise before he quickly bowed to him, "My apologies to Shifu. I wasn't looking where I was going."

"Ah, it was no problem." Quan Jigui waved his hands back and forth, dismissing it. "I was looking for you anyway."

Shen Jiu looked up, surprised. "You were?" He narrowed his eyes, thinking of anything he could have done wrong. It obviously wasn't for earlier in the day, he had gotten off free. Could some of his fellow disciples pointed the blame at him for something they did? It had happened before, so it wasn't impossible. "What for?"

Quan Jigui looked at him, amused by the defensiveness, and answered, "To assess your cultivation. It has been a while since I have done it, correct?"

"Ah, yes. The last time was around 10 months ago." He relaxed and presented his wrist to his Shifu, flinching at the cold hands that grasped it. His Shifu was famous in the lands for his skill in manipulating water and ice. Unfortunately, this translated to his Shifu’s body temperature being below average.

Quan Jigui closed his eyes, feeling for his disciples spiritual roots, and appraised how far Shen Jiu had gone with his cultivation. He opened his eyes and gazed at his disciple. Said disciple was staring back, curious to know his verdict.

"I believe you have made good progress in the past 10 months. Pack some food pills and some clothes, then go to the Linxi Caves to cultivate. I’ll explain your absence to the rest of the peak." His disciple stared up at him, pleased at the positive assessment.

"I… Yes, Shifu!" He hurriedly bowed and nimbly walked away, heading to his abode. When he arrived, he found his qiankun pouch(1) containing his food pills and quickly packed his clothes.

Writing two small notes, one for Xiang Mei and the other for Xin Xingfu, he made sure it would be sent to their accommodations.

He walked at a brisk pace to the Linxi Caves, hopping onto his sword when walking was no longer possible, the path twisting off a cliff face. When he arrived at one of the entrances, he reminded himself to remember what paths he took. He didn't want to become lost when it was eventually time to come out. He had heard horror stories of disciples being stuck in the cave system for years.

When he found a decent-sized cave with an abundance of qi, Shen Jiu set down his luggage and walked to the wall adjacent to the entrance. It was the spot with the most qi gathered. He lowered himself to the floor in lotus position, closed his eyes, and started to circulate qi.

It was simple. Gather qi, then cycle it through your spiritual veins. That should strengthen the veins and keep them clean. After that, expel any stagnant qi, purifying the remaining qi in the process. Cycle the qi through the body and lead it to the Dantian. Then repeat the process.

As he cycled his qi, he felt a strange sensation through his head. As he reached with a few strands of qi to investigate, he happened upon an unusual blockage of qi. It didn't feel like his or any qi he has regularly been around, but it also didn't feel like it was unnatural to his body. Strange. 

(As he faintly grasped that he wasn't meant to find it, the thought slipped from his mind like grains of sand.)

He lightly pried at it, wanting to see how it would respond. Perhaps it would react like regular qi.

A sudden wave of dizziness attacked him, forcing him to steady himself by leaning on the cave wall behind him. He quickly surveyed his qi, wanting to know just what happened. When he came back to the area the blockage was in, he found nothing. There were no traces that it was even there. 

Huffing, he called his qi once more and looked for anything else that was out of the ordinary. Nothing else was out of place. He continued to cultivate but made a note in the back of his mind to remember what had happened. It felt oddly important.

Time flew by as Shen Jiu became lost in the flow of qi, all he could feel was the ebb and flow of qi. He floated through the waves of ambient qi, mind clear of anything but cultivating. The longer he went through this process, the more he could feel himself growing stronger. 

At last, he opened his eyes, his limbs stiff and aching. How long has he been cultivating? 

He quickly stood up, stretching and shaking the stiffness out, and decided to practice his sword forms. He didn't want to get rusty, after all.

As he got into position and began, he flew through the forms, getting more polished as time went on. If one were to look in on his training, his image would be that of flowing water.

After training his swordsmanship, Shen Jiu decided a quick bath was in order before he headed back to the peak. During his time in the caves, he found a route that led to an underground lake. When he investigated it, he found there were no impurities in it, as usual underground lakes did. He figured it was due to the abundance of qi in the area.

After the bath, he headed towards the peak at a steady pace, his destination being his Shifu’s office. He had to report his return to the peak as well as the progress he had made.

When he arrived at the office, he quickly smoothed down his robes. Two knocks were all that were needed for his Shifu to acknowledge him. 

As he let himself in, he glanced around the office, noting that not much had changed. Only the amount of paperwork was different, which had doubled in size. Shifu sat behind his desk, eyes trained on his form.

He bowed, greeting Quan Jigui. As he leaned back up, his Shifu began to speak, “Welcome back, Shen Jiu. It has been quite some time since I last saw you.”

Curious, Shen Jiu inquired, "May this disciple ask how long I have been away from the peak?"

"Of course. It has been 9 months since I sent you to the caves."

Shen Jiu’s eyebrow raised, he hadn't thought he would be cultivating for that long. He ran his hands over his robes, wondering what had changed since his visit to the caves. Perhaps he should visit Xiang Mei and Xin Xingfu. It would be a nice surprise for them.

 “This disciple has made a breakthrough and has gained a deeper understanding of the sword, though I still have much to learn. I believe that I can properly return to the peak." 

Quan Jigui hummed, eyeing his disciple. He had definitely grown, both in cultivation and in stature. He gestured his hand towards his disciple, who quickly caught on and presented his wrist.

"This is remarkable progress. Not many can develop their pathways and qi reserves as quickly." He looked up to see his flushed disciple as he let go of his wrist. It seems this one is thin-skinned, he mused. His mouth quirked up as the thought passed through his mind.

Quan Jigui leaned back on his chair, hands grasping his fan. "You are to attend the Immortal Alliance Conference in three months' time."

His disciple stared at him, eyes widening in surprise.

"What?!"

Any guesses as to whos jealous ^^

Also, writing Shen Jiu is still new to me so I hope Im getting his characterization right

1) A qiankun pouch is a pouch able to hold more than it appears able to carry. It is used by cultivators to carry large/multiple items.

<< Chapter 1 | Masterpost | Chapter 3 >>