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Hundreds of years ago, there were rumors surrounding Taicang Mountain that the young Crown Prince who was studying there had descended to pursue a higher form of cultivation, the kind that will pave his way up to the heavens, granting him the ability to ascend and fulfill his innermost desire: becoming a great immortal who helps the common people of the world. Thus, during these days of traveling around, the prince looked akin to a humble cultivator on a ghost hunt. Who knows, if one’s lucky enough, maybe they can even come across him on his journey.

Xie Lian picked up a handful of soil from the riverbank, crushing it between his fingers until it became pulverized. Using it to draw a few quick lines, he made a talisman, then set it on fire with a palm torch. The flames were blazing, breaching so high that Xie Lian almost had to cover his eyes, lest he would go blind.

The color changed, meaning the yin energy must be exceptionally strong in this area, he remarked inwardly. It must be a ghost with especially strong resentment.

Confirming he’s on the right track, Xie Lian let the ashes fall through his fingers and be carried away by a gentle wind. He continued to follow the river to his destination.

A few incense time later, he indeed stumbled upon a hoard of what seemed to be lower lever ghosts and spirits, ranging from bulky and stupid to scrawny and half-witted.

Xie Lian’s eyebrows furrowed. At a closer look, they appeared to be so insignificant that the talisman shouldn’t have been able to detect them so viciously... yet he was sure that these creatures are up to no good.

With their ugly heads lowered, they were muttering among themselves, crouching on the road—except, these ghosts and spirits were incapable of murmuring, shrieking loudly. It was impossible to tell whether they were arguing, roistering or disclosing secrets.

“I’m telling y’all we should just go to the Gambler’s den and turn it into money.”

“Good idea!!! I bet it's worth a smaller fortune.”

"Rich!! We're gonna be rich!!"

“And how do you plan to get into Ghost City, huh?! They say that Hua Cheng has some serious business to do these days, and strengthened the barriers!”

Seeing this jumble of ghosts and spirits, Xie Lian couldn’t help but stop in his steps. Even more so when he heard what they were saying, as if his legs would no longer obey and carry him forward.

“Who cares what Hua Cheng does, if he’s busy he’s busy, at least he won’t be around when we’re betting it! That guy’s luck is uncanny!”

Hua Cheng, Hua Cheng… Xie Lian mulled over the name he just heard. In the end, he decided he didn't know anyone of such a name and found it familiar only because it had a very nice ring to it.

While Xie Lian was pondering, the ghosts kept going on and on, riling themselves up. “His luck must not be that good if this thing of his is now in our hands!! What’s so special about him?!”

They must have stolen that 'thing', Xie Lian thought, alarmed. Anyway, I’m going to step in when the time comes.

“What are ya on about?! You’re new around here or somethin’?!” One of the ghosts slapped the other in the face so hard it made him stumble backwards. Only then did Xie Lian see that on the ground, in the circle of these ghosts’ many inhuman legs, lay some kind of weapon, emitting a blue light that immediately caught his attention.

Now he really couldn't sit around anymore!

“Hold up!” Xie Lian shouted. Startled by his sudden arrival, the ghosts began to flap around in panic, bumping into each other and ending up in a trembling heap.

Graciously and delicately, like a swan on a lake, Xie Lian landed in front of them. Using the tip of his boots, he kicked up the neglected blue sword from the ground, caught it with one hand and held it up.

It was really too exquisite for words, so much so that Xie Lian’s heart began to race. The silver grip was not too wide, not too thin, decorated with various kinds of carvings. The handle gleamed with countless luminous pearls, reminding Xie Lian of the sky on a cold and clear winter night. Its qi was the color of frost, blazing white that radiated a magnificent azure glow on the outside, enabling its wielder to control the blade with more precision.

“Where did you find this sword?” Xie Lian asked, his tone not demanding, but firm.

The ghosts went mute, except for one that wore a conspicuous protusion on his head—must have been from the hit he received earlier.

“What do you care? Who do you think you are?” he spat out the words. 

Has... has this one been hit a little too hard?! Xie Lian fumed, but he was secretly waiting for this moment. If they want to fight so badly, then be it. With the unsheathed sword, he drew a nice arc into the air. Trying it out felt even more satisfying than he had hoped.

"It doesn't matter who I am," Xie Lian said, casually turning the sword to admire its sharp edge. "What matters is that I heard you before." He abruptly stopped, and pointed it to them, his voice serious. "And I'm inclined to think that this rare treasure here doesn't belong to you."

The ghosts shrunk back in fear when the blade got a bit too close, and they started to speak at the same time.

“Y-you misunderstand! No stealing!!!!”

“No, no… we found it on the road!”

"Is that so?" Xie Lian asked, still spinning the sword in his hand, a light blue flash trailing along.

Ah, such a fine sword.

“We got this from a strange masked ghost, he was practically trying to give it away!!!”

"This is the truth, have mercy!"

Just what kind of ghosts are you, so scared out of your minds???

The weird little ghost with the bump must have been thinking the same because he roared, “Why are you begging? We can easily overpower him!!! Come on!”

Hearing him, the others exchanged looks of doubt, then scrambled to their feet as well.

Xie Lian was, of course, not afraid of them at all. When the ghosts jumped at him, he twirled and struck, sending a few flying backwards. From a distance, one could have seen the glinting blue of the sword and Xie Lian, fast and agile like lightning, delivering jabs and strikes. It soon turned out that these lowly ghosts were all talk, no action. Sometimes they would shout “Go get ‘im!” or “How come a pretty boy like him is this strong?!”. In the end, Xie Lian didn’t even need to exert himself, the fight was so one-sided that soon, those who hadn’t run away, were trembling in front of his feet. He was still grabbing one of the adamant ones by the throat when he noticed the attitude of the ghosts had changed for some reason.

“Little buddy, you should be scared for your li-,” the one in Xie Lian’s hand mocked, but whatever he wanted to say, he couldn’t finish. His pointy, hairy ears were pricking up as if suddenly hearing something. Not only did he hear, he must have seen it too, his wide, bulging eyes glued to something behind Xie Lian’s back.

“What is it?” Xie Lian asked, not sparing a single glance. He figured he'd rather keep his eyes on the strange little creature. The ghost didn’t respond, with his legs, he madly tried to push himself away from Xie Lian’s grasp. “Letgo letgo letgo! Let me go, you have no idea what’s coming for you!!!”

There was indeed a sound, something unlike what Xie Lian has ever heard… like a string of meaningless chanting, almost like… a work song?

As if throwing a stone among a flock of birds, hearing the strange, otherworldly sound, the ghosts scattered away. Xie Lian didn’t know what had gotten into them, but he released his grip on the one he was holding, who unceremoniously hit the ground with a ‘plop!’ sound and disappeared for good.

The noise was getting louder and louder.  Xie Lian’s body turned towards it. Sword still in hand, he jumped into the attention pose.

In the distance, a glamorous sedan emerged from the evening mist with four golden skeletons in the front, each of them illuminated by green ghost fires floating all around. The work song was hollered by the former group, rattling and heaving as they carried that massive step litter. The featherlight, sumptuous red drapes on the gilded canopy swayed with their movements, giving a glimpse of someone already sitting inside. 

Xie Lian felt the essence of evil thickening rapidly. Albeit he was bewitched by the sight, he didn't lower the weapon in his hand. That minor ghost who had slipped away was actually right: the odd procession unexpectedly came to a halt when it reached Xie Lian!

It wasn’t that Xie Lian had never seen luxurious palanquins before. He himself used to ride one when he was little and occasionally, he heard some gossip of ladies sneaking into one to meet their lovers of prestige and fame. Such bawdy and tasteless tales, naturally, were no fit for the prince's ears, or someone's who based his cultivation on purity. Xie Lian fell into both categories, and additionally, he wasn't that interested. Thus, he quickly forgot about the rumors. Nonetheless, witnessing a scene like this first handedly, he couldn't help but find it enticing like a dream. At the same time, he also knew it had to be very real—a demonic, bizarre and extravagant encounter with golden skeletons who had abnormally large bone structures, ghost fires who did languid somersaults in the air, not to mention the mysterious figure who was shrouded behind a thin, red veil.

“This daozhang, thank you for taking back what's mine,” a man’s deep voice came from behind it, warm and pleasant to the ears.

Xie Lian knew that the person inside must be referring to the blade in his hand, but he hasn't moved to give it back just yet.

As if finding Xie Lian’s wariness amusing, the man huffed a laugh. “Ah, thank you, Tao Master. Pray forgive me for causing you unnecessary trouble."

From below the lustrous satin curtains, he extended a hand which had a red string on, snugly forming a knot around his middle finger. Aside from that, Xie Lian saw the silver glints of a vambrace, full of beasts, butterflies and maple leaf motifs, the crimson sleeves neatly tucked underneath.

Xie Lian only took a glance at it before he broke into a faint smile. It was a beautiful and powerful hand. More importantly, it belonged to a human—the state preceptor had already taught Xie Lian the proper method of how to tell the difference.

He placed the sword on the open palm.

“No need to trouble yourself with this, my lord," he said earnestly. "Wouldn't it be bad if this fine sword were to fall into a nefarious creature’s hands? It was just my luck that I managed to get it back.”

The hand slowly withdrew with the blue blade, and an inmissable "clang" sound within the sedan could be heard.

“And it was indeed my luck to have Tao Master taking care of the issue,” the man continued, unbothered. “And that’s precisely the reason why I must somehow repay you. Ask anything."

"Many thanks for my lord's kindness. But anything in the world is not what I desire," Xie Lian replied with courtesy. “Our paths might have intertwined briefly, but there’s a fork in our roads, I’m afraid."

He bowed slightly, ready to take his leave.

"I have time, so I don't mind a small detour," the man reassured in a light tone. "At least let me give you a ride, in exchange for collecting my sword for me."

The dark silhouette flicked his wrist and the curtains had parted, flimsily folded aside by a gentle breeze. This way, Xie Lian could take a good look at him.

Lounging inside, the man was wearing red robes, the color reminding Xie Lian of the vivid maple forest on Taicaing Mountain. His single obsidian eye was trained on Xie Lian, looking at him in a welcoming way, inquiring, but not obtrusive. The other was hidden behind a decorative, black eyepatch that couldn’t take away his handsomeness, it even made Xie Lian think that he must be a person with a story.

“You…” he blurted out.

A sudden gust of wind lifted the curtain more, revealing the man’s face once again. He eyed Xie Lian curiously, "Yes, daozhang? What about me?"

His black boots were adorned with silver chimes as well, one leg was casually propped up on the canopy. His other leg was stretched, inches away from the sword he just got back. He could have easily used it as a footstool. The mere idea made Xie Lian feel very complicated.

Noticing him staring, the leg shook cheekily, and crisp jingles followed as the man pushed himself up. His movements slow and deliberate, he leaned out of the step litter. He was tall—more than a head taller than Xie Lian,—and it only got enunciated by the way he was holding onto the golden frame with one hand. The other one took its previous position: reaching out, palm open, patiently waiting.

"How about it, daozhang?"

Xie Lian didn't know what to do. He considered declining the offer again, but wouldn't it be impolite of him to do so? Furthermore, this riverside road only lead to one way, wouldn't it be more convenient to travel together since they're bound to the same direction? He wouldn't like to impose, but judging by the talisman, the ghost he was looking for shouldn't be that far...

The man's single eye twinkled with a thousand stars, a smile playing on his lips as Xie Lian hesitantly accepted his hand. It was smooth and pleasantly cool, and he didn't held Xie Lian's any longer than necessary, only helped him in with the utmost care. Then, he took the seat he had formerly occupied.

Entering the sedan, Xie Lian had to face a problem.

Namely, there was no room left, except on this strangers’ lap. 

…what a bizarre thought, and what made it even more peculiar is that it came to him like the only logical conclusion. No, that must not be it. He was simply reminded by the crammed inside of the sedan that he used to sit in his mother’s lap as a child…

“Forgive my imprudence.”

He bowed quickly, sat down next to the man, corrected his posture and gazed out. The skeletons started to move fast, so much so that the outside blurred into one giant swirl of dazzling colors. His eyes involuntarily drifted back to the man next to him…then, he instantly snapped his head back, choosing to pay mind to the scenery outside. Not because the man in red was hard to look at, far from it. He was indeed handsome, his snow-white skin was quite beautiful, his black hair a little unruly but healthy and human-like as well—although according to the State Perceptors teaching, Xie Lian would have had to touch it to make a proper examination. On top of his natural good looks, he was clearly a man who knew how to dress. His red robe was very stylish, from the thin silver embroidery till the last clasp on his black cape. Who knows, maybe it was the missing eye that gave him a hint of wildness, a sense of danger that made Xie Lian fidgety in his small space. His single eye was shapely and while his gaze was intense, it radiated a sort of gentleness that Xie Lian couldn’t quite place. Still, there was something that made it difficult to stand.

"Tao Master, you haven't told me yet: where can I take you? I already made you stray from your path…"

"Thank you my lord, and it's alright," Xie Lian reassured, “I’ve heard there’s a ghost wreaking havoc at a bridge not too far away from here.”

“Ah." The man shut his eye in deep understanding. "So Your Highness was heading there when I chanced to meet him."

“My lord knows who I am?” Xie Lian smiled politely.

“The Crown Prince of Xianle, right? Who wouldn’t know?”

When the man said "daozhang", his voice gained a playful, coquettish lilt as if he was telling a secret joke only between the two of them. And when he called "Your Highness", he became sincere. This time, the man's tone was so final as if he really would think not knowing Xie Lian counts as a treason.

What an interesting man, Xie Lian thought, secretly findig it amusing, and thanked him with a graceful nod.

“How come Your Highness is traveling alone? Don’t you have servants to accompany you and cater to your every need?”

A picture of Feng Xin and Mu Qing came to mind, about how they’d react if they were to know how Xie Lian rode a sedan of a stranger—who can very well be a high level ghost he has no experience dealing with—to who-knows-where to exterminate another ghost that is rumored to be as terrifying. The mental image of their annoyed-dumbfounded faces was way too strong and for a second, Xie Lian breathed a laugh.

The sound ignited a strange light in the man’s eye. Xie Lian immediately cleared his throat, ashamed of his unabashed actions. “My friends aren’t with me right now. Dealing with ghosts is something I prefer to do by myself, because… well, to tell the truth...”

“Let me guess?” The man cut in, his voice sharp and direct like a knife. Smirking, he slowly twirled his long pointer finger in the air as if really making a guess. “They're loud, stupid and fight all the time, right?”

This time, Xie Lian couldn’t contain his laughter anymore. It might have been only his imagination, but the person next to him perked up as if his whole being would bask in the sound.

“But am I wrong?”

Hearing him, Xie Lian let out an exasperated sigh.

This man sure has some guts…

“My lord is only half-right. They indeed quarrel a lot.” Still laughing, Xie Lian admitted, then shook his head. “Ah, we shouldn’t gossip, and we absolutely mustn’t speak ill of others.” 

“Oh?" The man leant forward, "I almost forgot: Your Highness ‘cannot be stung by poisonous insects of malicious gossip, clawed by the wild beasts of fear and anger, or attacked by the vicious birds of greed and envy’, is that right?”

“Precisely,” Xie Lian smiled upon hearing the familiar words of the Dao De Jing.

Believing their conversation had come to an end, he was ready to stare outside again. Little did he know that the man next to him was relentless. After some time, he spoke up.

“I've been thinking and since I don't know your friends personally anyway, it wouldn't be bad if Your Highness was to tell me a fun and educational story.”

At home, in the Royal Holy Pavilion or the Palace of Xianle, knowing their prince was headstrong but had a quite good personality, no one tried to push him into answering when he made clear he had no intentions to do so. Xie Lian was at a loss, feeling a rare helplessness taking over. It was an unfamiliar emotion, making him all soft inside. After some consideration, he gave in. “There was a time when they nearly scared away a small water demon…”

Xie Lian had a faint suspicion that by the end of his story, his words put the man in a strangely good mood. He had to admit that he's been enjoying their time together as well. They talked and talked, and as it always happened when two young men started to bond—the topic of martial arts came up.

Xie Lian's attention shifted to the blue blade that was before them, almost serving as leverage for its owner's boots. He couldn't help asking, “What happens to the sword now? A rare treasure like this should belong to an armory.”

The man only chuckled. The deep and warm sound kept ringing in Xie Lian's ears. “Well, thank you for Your Highness' concern. I'm taking it home with me, of course. I do have quite the collection."

"A collection?" Xie Lian asked back, barely hiding the hopefulness in his words.

"Yes... I used to travel a lot, and, Your Highness can laugh at me, but when I see a weapon rare, unique or cursed, I just have to have it."

Xie Lian's eyes lit up with excitement. His whole body turned towards this man. "Nonesense! Why would I laugh? I am the same!!"

They discussed for a long time, exchanging tips and trivia. The step litter soon filled with laughter and in the relaxed athmosphere, Xie Lian allowed himself to tease. "I pray my lord takes better care of them than you do of this one..."

To his surprise, his companion just laughed it off. "It's usually the common people who dare to rob me, ghosts know better."

"The common people?"

"Yes. Ghost City is a place where greed and filth resides. In the shadows, the scum of the three realms gather to condone their shady business. Humans, demons, ghosts..."

"H-how come the heavens tolerate the existence of such a place?" Xie Lian asked, incredelous.

Silence followed his question and during that, the man seemed to structurnize him. Eventually, he replied with a question as well. "Say, Your Highness, you must be already close to ascension, aren't you?"

That's what Guoshi said. That I have the potential but I need to learn of the world before it happens. "I'm studying hard to achieve that goal, yes." Xie Lian said dedicatedly.

"Mn," the man hummed as if being in deep consideration. "I'm thinking, a place like Ghost City could certainly use your expertise. Maybe... I can show it to you, but I'm not sure Your Highness is willing to accompany me?"

Xie Lian's heart skipped a beat. Am I willing?

“Ah, forgive me. It was extremely forward of me to request this," he corrected quickly. "Pretend I didn't ask anything."

But Xie Lian already began thinking... What he said was right, maybe Xie Lian should stick around for a bit to ensure this blade gets home safely...

"If my lord says so..." he eventually gave in. "I've never heard of the existence of Ghost City before. Maybe I should visit to gain experience there..."

After all, it was Guoshi who said I should go travel and get to know the world a little better, Xie Lian reasoned, well, no time like the present...

"It's settled then." The man leaned back, looking very pleased. "Thank you, Your Highness, for granting me an opportunity to be your host."

The skeletons were marching on, the ghost fires rolled above them, their lights seeping through the red veils. Wherever Xie Lian wanted to go before, it was no longer important.

But since their companionship seemed to have extending, there was one thing Xie Lian needed. “Since you know my identity, will my lord give me yours?”

As if on cue, the barrier between the mortal and the ghost realm flickered out of existence and the golden skeletons carried them into a lively, boisterous part of the home of the ghosts. Xie Lian didn't dare move a muscle, not because he was afraid, but because he was awestruck by this chaotic environment. The swiftly moving palanquin seemed to had slowed down, and sepatated by only the thin, translucent satin veils, Xie Lian found himself in the middle of all kinds of intense smells and sounds, exotic and disorganized. There was dark as night with only a dim, red light, the air filled with burning joss paper and spices. Ghosts fires were floating, spirits were fighting, and soon enough, screams and shouts could be heard from all around.

“OUR LORD IS HERE!”

“It’s Hua Chengzhu, move ya filthy asses out of the way!!!”

“Chengzhu! Lord Chengzhu!”

Turning back to their conversation, the man chuckled at Xie Lian's expression, then leaned forward. The thick black braid he was wearing slid down from his shoulder as he rested his head in his hands, looking up at Xie Lian expectantly. “Can Your Highness guess my name now?”

“Hua Chengzhu? Is it Hua Cheng?” Xie Lian probed.

I knew it. He is a ghost... That’s why the talisman burned so brightly…

"No."

"No?" Xie Lian honestly didn’t expect that he would fail in his answer and since he admittedly didn’t have thick skin, he felt a bit ashamed. "Is not it? I was wrong, I'm sorry."

The man in red gave him a jovial smile and added, “I simply prefer the name San Lang, when it comes from Your Highness’ lips. Or even better: I have a feeling I’m your senior, maybe Your Highness can call me gege.”

Hua Cheng had a youthful charm, he didn’t appear to be older than someone in his twenties. However, Xie Lian suspected that as a ghost, he must be many many years old. It might be even centuries! That would undoubtedly make him Xie Lian’s senior.

Despite all of this, Xie Lian refused politely. “My lord seems to be a prominent figure of this land, I shouldn’t address you so casually.”

Hua Cheng laughed out loud. “Nonsense. What's the use for formalities between people who have been fated to meet?”

It might have been the flickering ghost fires above, but for a moment, Xie Lian could almost see a faint shadow crossing Hua Cheng's handsome face. Although, on a second thought, it might have been only his imagination. He opened his mouth to ask about it, when he coincidentally heard his title being called out from the masses.

"It's good ol' Chengzhu alright, quack!"

"Is it His Highness with him?"

"Quack quack quack, have you left your eyes at home again? Who else could it be?"

He turned to Hua Cheng quickly, chiding him, “My lord has tricked me... These are your people, aren't they? How come they know me, too?”

Hua Cheng replied airily. “I might have sent the news of having an honored guest to visit. They're excited.”

Well, if they are…

Xie Lian gathered a small portion of the curtain into his hands and drew it away. He returned their greetings with dignity, and sometimes waved at the crowd when they cheered at him enthusiastically. It really was just like the time he traveled with his royal parents in the sedan. He felt the red robed man’s eye on him again, an unreadable smile playing on his lips.

"So this is the infamous Ghost City?" Xie Lian asked, still moving his hand to and fro for the cheering, yelling crowd. "For wandering mortals, it can be a dangerous place."

The more he watched, the more Xie Lian entertained the idea of exploring the market. With the many odd things here, he should definitely come back and check...

“Dangerous?" Hua Cheng asked back, without a care in the world. "Perhaps. Is Your Highness familiar with the saying, 'Crimson rules the land'?"

"Much ashamed, I am not," Xie Lian admitted. "Could it refer to my lord Chengzhu?"

"That is correct. This is my territory, Your Highness is free to tell me anything your heart desires. I'll make it so that your stay here is satisfying to the utmost."

Xie Lian didn't know whether to laugh or cry. He tried to defeat the Yinian Bridge Ghost, but instead, he ran away with the head honcho of the ghost realm!!!

Other people might have found the decision to stay here reckless. Even, he, himself couldn't come up with a good reason, other than that he had a really very good feeling about this Hua Cheng! He guessed this wouldn't make a solid cause, and he swore not to let his guard down. No matter the circumstances, he will keep a close eye on his lovely host. But he also had this lingering, sweet gentleness inside, so he just whispered a quiet, "Thank you." He wasn't sure Hua Cheng had cought his words; the overzealous and loud ghosts were still at it.

"Here comes our lord lordship!"

"Wave at me too, I'm right here!"

“Look at that, Hua Chengzhu and his wife are riding the sedan!“

Upon hearing that, Xie Lian’s first reaction was confusion.

No, you misunderstood, it's just me, he thought. He looked back at Hua Cheng to ask whether he should clarify or not, but Hua Cheng only watched him, playing with the red string—a similar one he had around his middle finger—at the end of his long braid. The corner of his thin lips even tugged upwards.

Of course someone as good-looking and charming as him would have a wife, Xie Lian reasoned. He was grateful when the sedan abruptly stopped. It was clear he hadn’t ridden one in a long time-he must have gotten unused to it, based on how his stomach unpleasantly shrunk, a strange mood overtaking his mind.

They got off and Xie Lian found himself in front of a grandiose building that easily equaled the many palaces of the prosperous Xianle Kingdom. Faint notes of music could be heard from the inside, as if celebrating their lord's arrival. Hua Cheng walked up next to him, and indifferently threw the blue blade to whatever black-robed servant he had standing on the sides.

“Take this back to the armory,” he said without looking at anyone, but when he turned to Xie Lian, his voice was no longer authoritive, just kind. “Welcome to Paradise Manor, Your Highness.”

Hua Cheng reached out with his hand, long fingers parting the beaded curtain to reveal various ladies, so beautiful the moon and flowers feel embarrassed. Barefooted on a red carpet, they sensually moved to the music, drawing closer flirtatiously. Xie Lian turned his head left and right, following their movements. Hua Cheng had taken notice and asked, "...do you find my dancers pretty, Your Highness?"

"...mn." Xie Lian hummed absentmindedly. In truth, he was just eyeing the dancers because he was trying to figure out which one is supposed to be the wife.

The continuous jingling sound that accompanied their every step, abruptly faltered.

Hua Cheng stopped, directing his gaze above. "Look closely, then."

Only then, did Xie Lian lift his eyes and see the glazed mirror on the ceiling, reflecting the alluring sway of those women—who didn't look like women anymore but pink skeletons in tattered clothes. Xie Lian got immediately excited, and—out of tact—he signaled Hua Cheng to lean close to him. When Hua Cheng lowered his head, Xie Lian whispered in a strained voice. "I've only heard of the pink skeletons of prostitutes, never seen them before!"

Hua Cheng slightly bent down more. He murmured into Xie Lian's ear. "In life, they used to dance when attending to someone, now they're free, dancing of their own volition," Sometimes, only death can bring us closer to our deepest desire."

Xie Lian wasn't sure what was in that statment that gave him chills exactly, but his skin began to prickle. Hua Cheng put some distance between them and clapped his hands together. The music died down, the disguised pink skeletons stopped their sensual dance, lining up on both sides of the main hall, head hanging low. In their silence, the crisp clinking of Hua Cheng's boots could be heard again, as the pair made their way to the black jade divan standing at the end. A white pelt of a tiger-like beast was covering it, and Xie Lian couldn't help but run his fingers through its soft fur as he settled down. A feast was already layed out on a long table with abundant delicacies on top, all fresh and mouth-watering. Two golden cups were waiting for them with glistening red wine inside. Hua Cheng held them up and offered one to Xie Lian.

First the ladies, then the wine... Xie Lian thought he should come out clean.

"My lord, thank you for your hospitality. Paradise Manor really lives up to its name," he remarked, signaling Hua Cheng to lower the cup. "You really thought of everything. I must confess, it's my fault that I follow my chosen path of cultivation and I can't indulge in the pleasures Hua Chengzhu so tiringry bestows upon me." 

I was Hua Cheng's turn to lower the cup in his hands, "Does cultivation forbids having the leisure of a feast, too?"

"Oh, no, I can eat. As long as it doesn't turn into gluttony but rest assured, I'm safe from that."

Xie Lian was reminded of the kind of food he saw on his way through the Ghost City market, and he almost lost his will to try Hua Cheng's grand feast. He was thinking of a way to politely refuse, but Hua Cheng straight up asked about it.

"Your Highness doesn't have much of an apetite?"

"My lord has seen through me... "Xie Lian realized since he's going to stay here for a while, he might have tell the truth unless he wants to find an easy way out every time they dine together. "Please, my lord, don't take this the wrong way. I already feel troubled saying this to you after all your efforts. As emberrassing as it sounds: I'm known to be a picky eater."

"Really?" Hua Cheng asked. "That's not a problem. Your Highness should only take what he likes, and I'll sent back to the kitchen that doesn't match his taste. Tell me what those are."

It turned out, the dishes were all extraordinarily good, and Xie Lian was a little surprised when he had to name only three or four. To his further indignation, the more dishes he turned down, the more amused his host got. He listened intently to Xie Lian's qualms, joking and commenting on the meal, sharing stories to entertain Xie Lian.

Turns out, Hua Chengzhu had to deal with unruly ghosts on the daily and as he said, "could always use an extra hand." Ghost City was a place where ghosts of any level could be found and since Xie Lian was willing to learn, he offered to show him around tomorrow. Xie Lian thought he makes an excellent point.

They had such a good time. When Xie Lian voiced this, the lord of the city looked very satisfied. With a lazy, but genuine smile on his lips, he said. "I told you, I'll make it so your every need is fulfilled."

"Being here is already enough," Xie Lian reassured. "This visit really is such a thrill, I've already encountered many things I've only studied about," Xie Lian said.

His eyes glossed over the dancers, who were still standing on the sides as if that would be their punishment... Hua Cheng followed his gaze.

"Is Your Highness this interested in my dancers? Didn't you say that given your abstinence..."

"No! Absoluty not. What are you insinuating?" Xie Lian said quickly. "I was just thinking they needn't stop because of me. What's an entertainment hall without anyone being entertained?"

"Wise words." Hua Cheng said, "Continue." The last sentence was directed at the ladies and as if nothing happened, they went back to dancing and making music.

The melody carried on, filling the main hall of Paradise Manor. Xie Lian suddenly perked up.

"Oh, I know this song!" he exclaimed. "I could even play it when I was younger. Can I try now?"

Hua Cheng seemed to have taken aback, but didn't oppose the idea. He generously held out his hand with the wine cup towards the female skeletons, "If that's what Your Highness wants to do, go ahead."

"That's only fair. While my lord can hold a cup of wine, and I can hold an instrument."

The ladies didn't even wait for Xie Lian's polite apology for intruding, they shuffled away diligently, granting access to all their instruments.

I'm most experienced with the guzheng and the qin... ah, here's an erhu... how about...

After some deliberation of which one to choose, Xie Lian took the pipa in hand and plucked it experimentally. Then, he struck up a tune that his master thaught him in the early years, something he liked dearly and remembered well. 

"'One night by riverside I bade a friend goodbye;
In maple leaves and rushes autumn seemed to sigh'."

He sang clearly and evocatavely, his tempo not too hurried and not too slow, while his fingers played on the strings skillfully.

The final notes of the pipa still lingered in the air when Xie Lian exhaled softly, finishing the song. Immersed in his own playing, only after did he discover that Hua Cheng was looking at him the whole time, single eye so wide as if seeing him for the first time. There was a promise in his eye, of seeing him and only him from now on. Xie Lian found his staring a bit too uncalled for and he coughed lightly.

"Lord Chengzhu, ah, forgive me if I didn't sound up to scratch."

"No such thing." Had Xie Lian not known ghosts didn't need air, he would have said Hua Cheng looked a little breathless. He might have seen it wrong because it lasted for a mere blink, then he was back to his confident self. "After an enthralling performance such as Your Highness', it's not easy to find words."

"My lord looks like the type who's good at talking," Xie Lian said happily. He thanked the female skeletons the pipa and returned to his seat. "So I'll take this as a compliment."

"Does Your Highness find me eloquent?" 

"Does Chengzhu want me to praise him?"

They both grinned at each other, then chuckled.

"Your Highness' playing was like a thrill of a golden phoenix." Hua Cheng complimented. "And Your Highness has such a nice singing voice. Very sweet to the ears."

Xie Lian understood and felt happy when he heard the reference, "Thank you my lord, but I must be out of practice. I used to play on many instruments, but not anymore."

"You can always play here." 

"Thank you. Maybe I will."

The mood between them was very good and Xie Lian felt a strange feeling softly tickling his heart. Maybe it was a bit of tiredness.

Hua Cheng seemed to read his mind, "Your Highness must be exhausted. Let me accompany you to your room."

He lead Xie Lian to a remote room within Paradise Manor. They said their goodbyes for the night and Xie Lian settled in his chamber. 

When he woke up the next day, there was a lavish robe waiting for him, exactly to his taste. He immedately itched to try it on. 

He quickly undressed, but when he left himself bare in front of the mirror, he noticed something hanging from his neck.

A thin, silver necklace with a crystal-clear ring on it.

Since when do I have this? He wondered, pinching the silver chain between his fingers and let the ring dangle down.

I don't remember bringing this kind of jewellery with me when I left Taicang Mountain... I don't even remember owning it. Is this supposed to be a gift as well?

He quickly forgo the idea, but decided to keep the ring on his person.

He spend a good amount of time finding out the intricacies of his new robes, but with some difficulty, he was able to put it on right by himself, on the first try.

It was white, and on the sleeves were a row of translucent embrodiery of butterflies, their crystal-like wings beckoning the eyes. It came with a red silk belt, reminiscent of the red robes Hua Cheng had on the day before.

"Your Highness?"

He heard someone in front of his door. Could this be anyone other than Hua Cheng?

Xie Lian was still admiring the robe when he called out to him.

What a strange train of thought I had, there are other red things, too...

He quickly strode to the door and answered it.

"Hua Chengzhu."

It was indeed Hua Cheng, and it was clear Xie Lian wasn't the only one donning new robes. Crimson red with silvers tassles hanging from his shoulders, three thin silver belts around his waist. The upperarm parts of his red outer robes were slashed open, his clean white undershirt peaking through, his jewelries resting heavily on his chest, curling around the shell of his ears, or hanging downward like silver drops. His hair was half-loose, half-braided, except from the familiar thin braid with the red coral bead.

"Ah, Your Highness found the gift I prepared for him."

"So this is truly a gift. It would have been awkward for me to wear my lord's clothes by accident." 

What am I saying? His clothes wouldn't even fit me...  

Hua Cheng didn't answer, he only beamed at him. Today, he seemed to be in a very good mood. "Since Ghost City has no natural light, the wheather can become cool. I wouldn't want Your Highness to catch a cold, so I was just giving him a little present. I hope it's to your liking."

Before Xie Lian could say anything, something white fleshed right in front of their eyes. He took a few steps back for his next move, nearly knocking over all the contains of the table—a comb, brushes, a budaoweng doll, jade hair pieces and a candle almost falling to the ground.

"Careful!" He cried out, but he heard the whistle of the attack and grabbed the thing by the... neck?

Except, it didn't have one.

“Oh?” Xie Lian asked. It was a stripe of long, white silk with an unmistakable amount of resentment.

This was inside my robe? How come I didn't notice this thing?

“Oh.” Hua Cheng said too, holding the other end in a vice grip. For a fleeting moment, it seemed like he was giving a side-eye to the slithering white bandage.

The white silk struggled, then drooped. It looked... very pathetic.

“Hua Chengzhu, what is this? Another gift?” Xie Lian asked curiously. “Or is this little critter from the ghost city market?”

“It’s a tool for protection,” Hua Cheng said, voice growing distant as he glanced at the white silk disapprovingly. “Keep it for fun or”, his voice gained a slightly wicked edge, “throw it away.”

Maybe it was just Xie Lian’s imagination but at these words, the white silkband immediately began to tremble, wrapping itself tighter around his wrist like a snake.

Xie Lian couldn't help but feel a bit sorry for the miserable thing. But he also felt slightly annoyed.

“Does the City Lord think I can’t protect myself?” Xie Lian asked pointedly.

“No," Hua Cheng denied. "First of all, Your Highness is capable of taking care of himself. And you don’t have to worry about ever feeling unsafe in my territory," he explained while waiting for Xie Lian to step outside. "But Ghost City is madness in itself. Where we're going today is a place where the lowest of the scum gathers. A place that brings out the true nature, the worst of mortals and ghosts equally.” 

“Does such a place exist?” Xie Lian pondered loudly while following next to him.

“Of course, Your Highness. It's called the Gambler’s den.”

Chapter Text

Jingles and chitter-chatter marked their way as they walked the floors of Paradise Manor languidly. Xie Lian couldn’t help but glance left and right, admiring the paintings on the walls and the statues on the turns—naturally, they were all magical with a purpose of protection, as Hua Cheng so readily explained everything to him. The female skeletons were absent, leaving the main hall empty and devoid of music, the sloshing water from the indoor pool and the expensive-looking red carpet under their boots enhancing a sense of refinement as opposed to the salacious air of yesterday.

Discussing that they’re going to grab a bite on their way to the Gambler’s Den, Hua Cheng guided Xie Lian through the beaded curtain to the busy streets.

“I didn’t know Ghost City had human food.” Xie Lian remarked curiously.

“Not too much and definitely not something that would appease the crown prince, but I know a place.” Hua Cheng replied. “I'm surprised Your Highness is willing to try. Was the feast the night before not to your liking? Name any dish and I assure you, Paradise Manor has it.”

“It's not the case at all!” Xie Lian hurried to explain. “My Lord is the most kind; his hospitality unmatched. But I don't want to cause you any more trouble. It’s not every day to witness a cuisine authentic to Ghost City.”

“Really?” Hua Cheng chuckled lightly. “Even if it's too bland to Your Highness's taste?”

Remembering what kind of stalls he saw the previous day, Xie Lian thought being bland is not really a bad thing. Since the teasing tone went over his head, he just shook his head politely, “My lord has seen through me. The truth is, I'm not very hungry after your grand feast yesterday, so it's not an issue if the food is too bad. And besides," Xie Lian continued earnestly,  "My lord made me curious. If it's with you, I feel it might be worth trying the things I otherwise wouldn't. How am I supposed to learn of the world if we stay between the walls of your Paradise Manor?"

"Very wise," Hua Cheng said, looking oddly amused.

Relying on the hospitality of Hua Cheng, Xie Lian took a walk on the market. It was still dark—Xie Lian suspected no sunlight shed on ghost city all year around, and he pulled his new robes together gratefully.

"Thank you for this gift, my lord. It really is..."

He couldn’t finish saying his thanks, the enthusiastic ghosts were trailing right behind them, clamoring loudly, “Hua Chengzhu! Xie Daozhang!”

Another shouted, “Our Granduncle has come, too!!!”

…Granduncle?

Xie Lian felt they’ve been overheard because the ghosts were circling him, keeping their distance from their lord, but sticking a plate of this and that under Xie Lian’s nose shamelessly.

"Have my lords had breakfast already?"

“Can't get ya going hungry! Have a taste!!”

“How about these? All fresh and new!!”

One bowl had dark, human hair in it, squirming so much one’s chopsticks would have moved on their own. There was a small, decorative cup with a strange, drool-like substance and a large plate of long, black claws neatly laid out, the stench of blood still lingering in the air… 

“Pick mine, pick mine!”

“Do you need these, Granduncle? I tore them off with my own hands!!”

“Excuse me.” Xie Lian suddenly stopped and asked the nearby ghost with the plate of fingers. ”Who are you calling ‘Granduncle’?”

“Granduncle is Granduncle.” The ghosts roared in unison.

“...Is it really me?” Xie Lian pointed at his nose in disbelief.

A few ghosts exchanged looks, but the others have been too caught up in their own high spirits. “Who else would it be? Of course, Xie Daozhang is our only Granduncle.”

Xie Lian was speechless. “I’m sorry, I would rather have you call me His Highness the Crown Prince.”

The formerly proud expression immediately melted off of the ghosts’ faces. All noises had died down, confused whispers replacing them. Xie Lian could only catch a few fragments like “...a fight?” or a “never seen him like this before”, someone even sniffed, “Is he in a bad mood? Is he mad?”. The ones with more guts immediately sent weird looks towards him and their City Lord.

Mad? Xie Lian blinked up at Hua Cheng, too. No, he seems to be fine…

He looked more than fine. Xie Lian would even dare to say he found great enjoyment in something because his thin lips curled into a sneer.

Even though Xie Lian’s answer was kindhearted, his tone didn't lack dignity. Seeing that his words might have accidentally hurt the masses, he tried to redeem himself. “Or ‘Daozhang’ works too, I’m a cultivator after all. But ‘Granduncle’ is a bit…”

However, none of this mattered because Hua Cheng was faster than him as he interjected in a light tone, “You all heard His Highness. Scram.”

Although a bit dejected, the ghosts scrambled away, looking like they’re going to keep gossiping for the next three months. Hua Cheng turned to Xie Lian slowly, looking very much at ease. “The ghosts of the city offended Your Highness. Please accept my apology.”

Although his mouth was moving, his single eye was brimming with wild amusement.

You look so insincere, Xie Lian wanted to say. “That’s not it at all, maybe it’s me who should go back and explain it to them, it’s just…”

It was just like this: How could he bear a title like ‘Granduncle’? First of all, he’s only seventeen, it's not that old. And as for the second: calling him like this in front of the City Lord would make people think he’s Hua Cheng’s senior… what kind of mess in the hierarchy would that be! For all he knows, it’s Hua Cheng who should take offense.

Hua Chengzhu and His Highness Xie Not-Granduncle Lian continued on. Xie Lian couldn’t help but stare with awe at his surroundings. Red lanterns were hanging down from above, while all kind of smells and sounds invaded his senses. The ghost here seemed to be minding their own business from then on: although Hua Cheng's presence commanded them to behave, the disorganized groups of the Ghost Market were hustling and basking on the road not far away. They passed all kinds of vendors, some greeting them and calling out to them through the bustling noises. The long lines in front of them were coiling and moving like snakes, several individuals concealing their identities behind cloaks and masks, each more terrifying than the last. And if they weren't, they looked exceedingly ugly.

Xie Lian unconsciously slowed down.

“Wait-” he mumbled, spotting a neatly stacked line of colorful masks on display, with patterns of eerie smiles and multiple fangs. Some were representing animals, frogs, bears and boars and…

"A fox?" Xie Lian asked.

Hua Cheng matched Xie Lian's pace. 

“Hm?” He asked, following his gaze questioningly.

What caught Xie Lian's attention was none other than a fox mask, quite cute and charming but with an undeniable sly aura.

“Hua Chengzhu, is that some kind of tradition to wear masks in Ghost City?” he asked.

“Your Highness guessed right. Many who usually have business here wear a disguise to blend in. Humans, spirits, even heavenly officials…”

"People of the Heavens?" Xie Lian mused, turning around quickly. "But that can't be right."

Hua Cheng let out a hearty laugh, "I've got quite a few stories to tell if Your Highness is interested." He took a few jingling steps forward, directing Xie Lian's attention back to the masks. "Your Highness likes foxes?"

"M-Mhm," Xie Lian said noncommittally. He liked all kind of animals and animals liked him, but it couldn't be said that he gave foxes that many thoughts before. Interestingly, now he felt he does feel a strange attachment to them, moreover, they might be his favourite! Maybe, similarly to the fox spirits from old folk tales, the mask had this sort of magic power?

The vendor noticed the approaching pair, and called out to them.

"Hua Chengzhu, Xie Daozhang, come here! I have the best mask in the whole Ghost Market! Whatever these esteemed lords need, I got it! This one disguises your evil essence, this one changes your voice, very simple. The other one melts off your enemies faces when gifted to them, this makes them bleed from the seven orifices..."

Hua Cheng didn't bother with him, just led Xie Lian closer, cutting the line. Except, there was no line to cut anymore: the ghosts around had respectfully moved out of their direction. But their mouths couldn't be stopped, and they seemed to be excited to have their city lord and his honored guest among themselves.

They were busy spouting nonsense without a pause, greeting them and urging them on.

"Are you going to buy one for yourselves?"

"What are you saying! Hua Chengzhu needs no mask to hide behind!"

"Yes, so handsome! Why would he want to hide his good looks?"

He is definitely handsome, Xie Lian remarked inwardly. Deep in thoughts, he hadn't noticed that Hua Cheng had already held the fox mask, offering it up to him.

"I can't possibly take it." Xie Lian made a gesture of thanks, but politely refused. "I think... it's more suited for my lord."

"Oh? How come?" Hua Cheng asked, lifting the fox mask to cover his face.

There was a group of female ghosts nearby, whispering and squealing among themselves.

"No reason, just a feeling." Xie Lian answered him earnestly. "Look, it even has an earring painted on, similar to the coral bead Hua Chengzhu is wearing in his braid."

Behind the fox mask, Hua Cheng's eye-the one, that wasn't hidden behind his eye patch, softened.

"Your Highness really has a good eye for these kind of things." 

"Just a little bit," Xie Lian smiled at the praise. "Back in the palace I had all kinds of gems, precious stones I used to play with as a child..."

He couldn't continue because at the mention of his coral pearl, Hua Chengzhu lightly lifted that lonesome braid, giving the bead a small roll with his fingers.

Xie Lian was at a loss for words, the gesture rendering him speechless for some reason. His body began to feel strange, his cheeks catching heat as he started to feel a weird sensation in his chest.

"Is something wrong?"

The feeling spread and Xie Lian was utterly shocked to learn it wasn't inside his chest, but outside, on two specific points...

"No-nothing!" Xie Lian gasped out, blood rushing to his face. He even stumbled a few steps backwards, but realized the motions must have been clumsy, utterly undignified, drawing the many eyes of the nearby ghosts towards him.

"Careful," Hua Cheng helped him steady himself. The touch at the small of his back didn't even linger, it was driven back as fast as it came, yet Xie Lian couldn't help but feel awkward.

The group of female ghosts were all giggling, which made Xie Lian's face heat up with shame. 

"I…"

Suddenly, he noticed something. Maybe it was because of the fast movement, but the mask Hua Cheng was wearing happened to be slightly crooked. Before he could even come to his senses, Xie Lian surged forward to fix it, as if his body was moving on its own.

Hua Cheng allowed him to do so, even leaning a bit forward to help Xie Lian reach him. For a few awkward moments, they were looking deeply into each other's eyes before Xie Lian pulled away.

"I... just as I said," Xie Lian side-stepped suddenly. "It needs to be on Hua Chengzhu. It's a must."

"That's right! That's right!" The ghosts were still listening in, encouraging them with their cheers. "Hua Chengzhu makes the best ol' fox...!"

Hua Cheng removed the mask, revealing one handsome eyebrow that has been pulled up. The commotion immediately died down, even a fly could have been heard. Xie Lian couldn't help but admire his authority.

“Here," Hua Cheng reached out, taking the mask displayed next to the fox one. "If you can't accept the other, I bet this will look good on you."

It resembled an animal with fur as white as snow and cute, round ears; most likely some kind of ferret or stoat. They seemed to be a part of a set, a red dot painted on their ears as if some kind of earring.

“Well, I, for sure, wouldn't want to feel out of place.” Xie Lian laughed, taking it. "Thank you, my lord. You really are so good-ah. But from now on, I can't accept anything anymore..."

“It's a gift. Just a humble one.” Hua Cheng brushed it off.

Soon enough, they've arrived at the food vendors.

Xie Lian decided to order something light that still was a dish from the mortal realm. It was of average taste, and could be considered nothing compared to Paradise Manor's feast, but Xie Lian politely eat half a bowl before he announced he’s full. Hua Cheng didn't eat - Xie Lian suspected he’s a ghost, and he doesn't need to eat - just watched him. Maybe that's why Xie Lian couldn’t eat anymore.

The fox and ferret masks were lying on the table, with Hua Cheng's long fingers idly tracing the lines of the ferret’s ear. The touch was tender, as if petting it. Xie Lian was bemused, but he also felt a bit hot, most likely because of the overheated breakfast.

After the meal, it was time to go to the Gambler's den.

Arriving at an imposing red building, black curves were decorating the couplets and Xie Lian thought maybe it's some kind of ancient writing he’s unfamiliar with. After he tried to make sense of them, he realized it's supposed to be calligraphy!!! What a shame, the brush work was truly a disgrace.

Xie Lian was taught by the most renowned calligraphy masters of the land, and looking at the abysmal writing made him raise his eyebrows.

Hua Cheng caught his gaze and questioned him. 

"Is something interesting?" He asked warmly, closing the distance between them.

"This building is very nice. I was just thinking I've never seen calligraphy this bad." Xie Lian said honestly. He chuckled, and shook his head, ready to cross the main entrance of the Gambler's den.

For some reason, Hua Cheng didn't move. Xie Lian had to backtrack until they stood side by side again. Puzzled, he followed the direction of Hua Chengzhu's gaze.

It seemed like he couldn’t stop staring at the calligraphy on the couplets.

He was standing there with arms behind his back, wearing a distant, piercing expression.

"...I'll destroy it." He muttered, smiling slightly.

"What?"

"I never knew it's such an eyesore to Your Highness. I'll get rid of it as soon as possible."

The look of him was so dark, so grim that Xie Lian didn't dare doubting him.

"Oh no, no, no! My Lord mustn't! It's something that suits Ghost City. Although the calligraphy is distasteful, it somehow makes sense to have this kind of thing in the city of ghosts.”

At his words, the black lines started to move, as if doing their best to arrange themselves into more proper characters, but to no avail – the writing stayed the same bad quality.

"I see they're really trying their best. How silly," Xie Lian said, endeared. He walked up close, hunched above the writing, and reached out to poke the black lines playfully. Before his fingertip could brush against the surface, there was a light cough behind him.

"Your Highness, it's better to go inside now."

There was an arm briefly on his waist, not quite touching but guiding him through the doors, along the crowd and long tables. Hua Cheng walked beside him expressionlessly. Although he didn't say anything, Xie Lian felt his subjects must have predicted he might be in a somewhat bad mood. Still, Hua Cheng led him behind a red curtain - flimsy and delicate, like the one he had on the golden carriage.

Speaking of the golden carriage, Xie Lian had the same feeling washing over him: there was only one black throne behind it, comfortable for one but certainly not for two—there's no other place to sit, except on Hua Cheng's lap.

Xie Lian: "..."

The thought was fleeting and flimsy, utterly ridiculous but the urge was so inexplicably strong that Xie Lian suspected there might be some kind of spell working in the Gambler's den, making the mind dizzy. He turned to ask Hua Cheng about it, but when he did so, there were now two black chairs with a small table, wine, a tea set and a bowl of fresh fruits sitting on it.

Xie Lian looked around, expecting one of the many servants to serve them. Hua Cheng seemed to have figured out his thoughts. "They know better than to come here. This is a prohibited area, only reserved for honored guest such as yourself."

Hua Cheng leisurely offered one of the seats; he himself sat down as well among a set of jingles.

The red curtain seemed to work as a folding screen, dividing the gamblers from their lord. Xie Lian took in the sight - an architectural masterpiece with a hidden exotic charm.

Xie Lian blinked back to Hua Cheng and saw that he seemed to have changed clothes—now he was wearing a loose, red translucent robe with silver threads and a black sleeveless robe under that enunciated his fine body. His expression seemed distant, outright bored.

"Is Hua Chengzhu going to play?" Xie Lian asked curiously. 

Hua Cheng turned to him, and he flashed a smile, immediately chasing away any other emotions Xie Lian might have sensed from him.

"Me? These lowlifes are beneath me. Ghost City is a hub of shady trash. I only play when there's a reasonable interest."

"Money?" Xie Lian guessed.

"Does Your Highness think I need money?" 

"Ah, sorry... That was rather foolish of me to say."

"Not at all.“ Hua Cheng reassured, gathering his sleeve aside and poured wine and tea. "What about Your Highness? Do you intend to play?"

Xie Lian straightened his back. He always prided himself on his principles and righteousness, and he thought this good man here would certainly appreciate his strong will. He took his tea with an impeccable posture.

“Answering Chengzhu: ‘The pursuit of pleasure thwarts the aim’, my lord must know this saying.”

“That, I do,” Hua Cheng replied leisurely, the wine inside his small jade cup slowly touching the brim as it made a slow round.

He put it on the table without drinking any. Xie Lian just noticed the wooden black cup with a pair of jade dice in it. Hua Cheng continued. "My impression on cultivation was like this: like nature itself, it flows freely, and liberates those who appreciate it. Your Highness is so virtuous, maybe he can explain to me: why for does cultivation need strict precepts?"

Xie Lian held a mouthful of tea, then gulped it down slowly.

"Of course my lord would think so. A carefree cultivator is a good cultivator. And an even better cultivator has no problems following the rules. For example: I was perfectly aware when I've chose my path of the rules and I never regretted it. It's not that hard to follow the Dao and practice self-restraint."

"Oh?" Hua Cheng pulled up one of his handsome eyebrows, his single eye glinting in the dimly lit den. "Is it really not that hard to hold back?"

"It's not difficult at all." Xie Lian laughed. "I've never been tempted."

Hua Cheng laughed along.

"Your Highness might not believe me, but repressing urges, is really something I'm good at, myself."

"Why wouldn't I believe you?" Xie Lian asked back. "Hua Chengzhu seems to be a man of his words. A man of discipline."

"Ah, Your Highness thinks too highly of me. But here's a question: if I'd like to practice daoist cultivation, do I have a chance?"

"Mn?" Xie Lian asked back, confused.

"I'm worried about those strict rules, like the no alcohol one. And here's the Gambler's den, too." Hua Cheng let out a deep sigh, looking troubled.

What an incredible thought! A ghost practicing cultivation! However, Xie Lian didn't want him to feel bad by saying no, so he decided to indulge him.

"Actually... actually the Gambler's den can be a great place to contemplate the teachings of the Dao De Jing!"

Hua Cheng popped up his head, long fingers folded, holding his handsome face as he looked up at Xie Lian. “Is that so?“

"Y-yes! Since gambling is ultimately based on luck, fate and the unpredictable, it's not that far from taoist cultivation!"

What is this nonsense, what are you saying?! A small voice screamed inside Xie Lian's head. Nevermind, he continued.

"When it comes to betting, the player can choose how much to bet and what to bet on, but they are still subjecting themselves to the caprices of fate: as with the Tao, a person can make their own choices, but they must also allow the world to move and flow as it should. The outcome of a gambling game is not something one can completely control, and thus, we subject ourselves to fate's hands and... and...  no matter the playout, we just go with the flow."

"Ah, what Your Highness says makes sense. Then, from now on, please take good care of me as your martial brother."

Xie Lian almost spit out the last portion of his tea.

Are you for real?!

"When Your Highness talks about cultivation it's really inspiring. I almost got into the mood of becoming a daoist disciple."

"..."

Xie Lian couldn’t help but picture mentally what Guoshi would say, had his head-disciple bring a Ghost King home one day and tell him that fro now on, they're going to be shixiong and shidi... A Ghost King that certainly can't fit into the rule of "no-drinking", "no-promiscuity" and who owns the very gambling house thye're sitting in. Strangely, at that point, Xie Lian's mind went blank. It took him some time to find his words again.

"My master, the imperial preceptor... Ehm... I mean, there are certain exceptions."

"How come?" Hua Cheng asked, looking intrigued. His fingers inched closer to the black cup with the dice. "Is there a naughty disciple Your Highness knows, who breaks the precept?"

Xie Lian let out an awkward little laugh.

It was not even one of his peers, but Guoshi himself! Eight out of ten times, he would play a round of cards with his deputies and get so into it that Xie Lian, Feng Xin or Mu Qing would wait for him because dragging him away from the scene forcefully never was possible! Those times, Guoshi always used the same excuse of why his behaviour is compatible with the Dao... 

"I..." The sight of that firm, but graceful grip of the long fingers was truly bewitching, making Xie Lian falter. “I'm not sure… Although…”

“Hm?” Hua Cheng drawled.

“Although… it might not cause problems if it's not intended with the mind to gain.”

“Does this mean Your Highness is willing to play?” Hua Cheng asked, lifting the black cup.

“I rather not,” Xie Lian declined weakly with a smile. “I’ve heard my lord’s luck is uncanny.”

“Who knows. Why not try it yourself?” Hua Cheng laughed, then shook the cup until it emitted a string of crisp sounds. “You might just win against me. And as always, Your Highness can ask anything from me, and it's yours.”

He looked very casual as he said this, but also very convincing and sincere.

“Alright… Maybe… hm…” Even as a cultivator, Xie Lian was still the crown prince: it couldn't be said that he lacked anything. He held his right elbow with his left hand and his chin with his right hand as he pondered. Suddenly, his expression brightened, “I think I’d like to see my lord’s weapon of choice. Owning an armory, you must have plenty, but I wish to see the one you’re the proudest of.”

“My finest weapon?” Hua Cheng asked, an ambiguous smile playing on his lips. “I’m sure you will. But what about me? Can I, too, ask anything from Your Highness?”

“‘Anything’ is only fair,” Xie Lian reassured.

Hua Cheng leaned a bit closer. His voice dropped low, his words finding their way into the bottom of Xie Lian's ear. “Betting against each other, we’re so familiar… maybe now you can call me gege.”

…what kind of wish is this? Xie Lian covered the ear Hua Cheng had whispered into, the shell and the very tip growing warm against his hands for some reason.

Hm.

This was the second time Hua Cheng had asked him this. At first, Xie Lian had denied him out of courtesy, but since Hua Cheng had asked him again, it must be something important to him. It's also not something inappropriate or preposterous, and it's something very easy to fulfill.

“That’s all?” Xie Lian asked, still rubbing.

“That's all,” Hua Cheng beamed.

As if tasting the words, Xie Lian locked eyes with Hua Cheng and uttered, “San… San Lang gege.”

There was an indescribable reaction from Hua Cheng. It was a bit too dark to see clearly, but Xie Lian could have swear he has seen a flicker in his host's eye - and he could only hope that was of approval.

It seemed to be the case, because Hua Cheng's smile sharpened, and he wasted no time telling Xie Lian the rules of betting big or small.

"Let us begin,” Hua Cheng said, giving the black cup a little shake.

At first, Hua Cheng had rolled two fives. Lucky indeed! When it was Xie Lian's turn, he rolled a four and a six.

"Oh, it's the same. What happens now?" Xie Lian asked. 

"Then, we keep playing until one of us wins."

The next round, Hua Cheng rolled two fives again. And Xie Lian did the same!

The final round, Hua Cheng rolled two sixes... And Xie Lian rolled a five and a six!

"Ah, I almost got it!“ Xie Lian exclaimed.

"Your Highness has no idea how many times I've heard this in here." Hua Cheng laughed. "Was gambling fun?"

Xie Lian nodded happily, then suddenly, before he could feel guilty, his eyes caught something. He got distracted by that bright little red knot on Hua Cheng's middle finger. It was a sharp contrast against the black cup on his white hand; a mesmerizing sight. A thought formed inside his head.

"Hua Chengzhu... How come your hand is so…"

"So?"

Xie Lian thought of a way to phrase it properly but in the end, he decided to be blunt. "So unlike of the dead."

Obviously, as the highest level ghost, Hua Cheng had seen through him. "Ah, is Your Highness testing me?"

Xie Lian blushed. "A little."

Luckily, Hua Cheng didn't seem offended. "It's really simple. Want to touch?"

"Can I?"

Hua Cheng invited to touch his palm and Hua Cheng easily slid his hand against his. They slotted against each other seamlessly, with Hua Cheng's long fingers reacher further than Xie Lian's smaller ones.

"Oh. I didn't expect it to be so cold."

"It is. If Your Highness touches it a bit more, it'll become warmer."

It happened according to Hua Cheng's words - the hands slowly caressing and rubbing each other gradually changed temperature. Xie Lian was truly fascinated.

"The palm print is so natural, so beautiful. It must have been difficult to conjure a body like this."

"It's all about concentrated spiritual power. If Your Highness is curious, you can try my hair next."

Xie Lian took a look at Hua Cheng's hair, soft and smooth like black silk, with the red pearl at the end.

Xie Lian longed to touch it. He wanted to brush his fingers against it really badly! 

And suddenly, it occured to him: What am I even thinking, what a sin! Xie Lian jumped up so fast he almost knocked the table over.

“Hua Chengzhu, I—!“

Hua Cheng clicked with his tongue and it was surprisingly enough for Xie Lian to notice where he went wrong immediately. 

The game! He had lost!

"Sa-San Lang gege."

Hua Cheng nodded with a pleased expression.

"San Lang gege, I... was thinking of going for a walk."

"Already?" Hua Cheng asked. "Alright, we can go."

"No! I... I mean, San Lang gege is busy here, he needs to look after the den and if I hinder him in his duties here. I better go and explore a bit. San Lang gege, can I?"

Hua Cheng studied him for a bit, then chuckled. 

"Alright." He spread his arms. "Your Highness is no prisoner here, but a guest. He's free to go wherever he wishes to. That's why you're here in my city after all. But don't forget to meet me after I'm done here."

"Thank you," Xie Lian smiled brightly. He hurried out of the Gambler's den.

He immediately leaned his back against the cold wall, a hand slowly touching the center of his chest. His heart was beating normally, a bit lighter now that he didn't have to feel the stuffy and odd air inside.

The silk band he thoroughly forgot of, coiled in front of him as if asking what's the matter.

"Oh, you're still here. Nothing's wrong," Xie Lian reassured. "For a moment, I felt..." Then, he shook his head, feeling stupid for talking to that white ribbon. "Nevermind. Let's go."

As if figuring out his thoughts, the white silk helped him and fished out the stoat mask from his sleeves. Xie Lian put it on, arraging it a bit to fully cover his face. 

He was now in a city full of ghosts, better to blend in!

"Thank you. Now tell me little friend, are there any more of you here?"

The white silk band extended in the air, as if showing off itself.

Xie Lian wanted to ask where to go next, but suddenly, a gust of warm wind gathered a flock of bright, crystal-like butterflies in his way. They surrounded Xie Lian, chasing after each other with lazy flaps of winds.

Xie Lian felt a certain kinf of delight and was amazed by them.

"Beautiful little creatures." He thought, and wandered off to the market nearby.