Chapter Text
Chu Wanning knew he was a bad omega. It wasn’t as though he was unaware of the rumors circulating Sisheng Peak about him. Disciples, old and young alike, debated hotly on what could have turned his heart to ice. A dead lover? Traumatic experience? A stray demon from the rift? The rumors circled endlessly, fueled only by his strict demeanor and cold gaze.
No one would have guessed at the soft, bleeding heart that lay hidden behind those impenetrable walls of ice. Ever since the beginning, there was not one who loved him. Twenty-seven years had not changed that fact, nor would five more, especially when they had been spent in a death-like sleep.
As one who had been placed on a pedestal from a young age, Chu Wanning understood the importance of keeping an objective view of oneself. Yes, his inventions were of a great service to cultivators and common folk alike. He was a powerful cultivator and he alone could fill the important role of sealing the Ghost Realm Barrier. Unfortunately, his usefulness as a cultivator was his only redeeming trait.
As an omega, Chu Wanning should have been beautiful, desirable and kind. He should have been able to laugh and talk with others, making them comfortable and easily becoming friends. He should have been gentle and nurturing with the young. At his age, he should have been mated with pups. That was the correct path for omegas, no?
In his most secret dreams, a strong alpha would help ease his burdens, understand his quirks and truly love him. A strong alpha with dark hair pulled back into a ponytail, dark robes contrasting heavenly with his tanned skin, purple eyes gazing fondly at him…
When reality hit, the cruel, stark difference was almost too much to bear. Chu Wanning was no such omega, he was defective. Rather than a soft, luminous beauty, he was all harsh angles with a sickly looking complexion. He had no trace of a gentle, loving nature, instead being famous for a short temper and stinging strike from Tianwan. Any alpha who had ever desired possessing an omega like the Beidou Immortal went running for the hills when confronted by the man himself. Truly, there was no omega more undesirable.
“Yuheng!” A cheery voice snapped Chu Wanning out of his thoughts, “I’ve been looking everywhere for you!”
Xue Zhengyong was the only one who would ever address Chu Wanning in such a manner. The loud, overly enthusiastic alpha was not put off by his cold demeanor, rather extending his friendship time and time again.
Carefully setting aside his scroll, Chu Wanning raised his head, observing the fast-approaching alpha. Raising an eyebrow, he nodded at him to go on.
As Xue Zhengyong sat himself across from him, Chu Wanning’s nose wrinkled almost imperceptibly at the sudden influx of happy alpha pheromones. Xue Zhengyong smiled broadly as he launched into an explanation. “Aiya Yuheng, you’re so hard to find nowadays! Meng’er has told me all about the training regimens you’ve been having him run through. That with helping with Tanlang’s lessons, you’ve already dove back into work so soon after your seclusion! I hate to do it but a mission of enough import has been given to Sisheng Peak, I am sending you and Mo Ran to handle it.”
For most of Xue Zhengyong’s pleasantries, Chu Wanning had been slowly tuning out of the conversation; however the last sentence snapped him back to attention quickly. A mission… with Mo Ran? Immediately, he began attentively listening to every detail coming out of Xue Zhengyong’s mouth.
Parsing through the many thrown in stories and anecdotes about his wife and Meng’er, Chu Wanning was able to gather the basic information for his upcoming mission. A town in the south had reported several people gone missing after travelling near an abandoned temple deep in a forest. The temple had stood quietly for as long as any of the townspeople could remember, and only started causing trouble six months ago. At first, they believed that people got lost due to the confusing nature of the forest and deep ravines, but after the most recent disappearance, they realized they were dealing with something much different.
“Some tattered remains of one of the cloaks a traveller wore washed downstream to the village,” Xue Zhengyong said, voice and scent turning serious, “A small search party was sent out but returned empty handed. The villagers reported an evil energy that surrounded the temple area that made it impossible for them to approach.”
Although serious, the mission was not out of the ordinary for Chu Wanning. Before his five year seclusion, he had often dealt in demons and hauntings that plagued the common folk. While part of his mind worked fervently on the information provided, the other half was involved in other pressing matters, namely Mo Ran.
His disciple had grown up well during his seclusion. The already handsome youth had grown into a devastatingly attractive young man. After springing up like a weed and filling out, he cut an impressive looking figure in his dark robes. He had matured almost beyond recognition, but the same kindness Chu Wanning had always loved him for remained.
Now being known as Mo-gongzi, the alpha had grown into himself as a cultivator as well as a man. From the journal Mo Ran had gifted him after his seclusion, Chu Wanning read of his many exploits. His disciple had followed in his footsteps, using his skills to help the common people and eradicate evil from the world. His cultivation grew exponentially during that time, earning him his title.
Despite their undeniable shizun-disciple relationship, Chu Wanning doubted his place, wondering if he could even view Mo Ran as his disciple anymore. What could a bad-tempered, sharp tongued man such as himself even offer him? He hadn’t been particularly nurturing in Mo Ran’s younger years meaning there weren’t any good memories to hang on to and now he had outlived his usefulness as Mo Ran’s shizun. All that remained was an ill-tempered, perverted, sour-smelling omega who desperately clung to any little kindness that the young alpha would send his way.
“Shameless,” Chu Wanning bit out, ears colouring as he reprimanded himself for thinking of Mo Ran in such a way.
“Eh?” Xue Zhengyong replied confusedly, “Ah Yuheng, calm your temper. Ran’er will be here soon, he’s grown up well you know. He wouldn’t keep you waiting again.”
Chu Wanning let the platitudes wash over him as he fell back into thought. Indeed Mo Ran had become a more filial disciple since he had come back. Whereas before, Chu Wanning would overhear hate-filled rants or be the subject of angry glares, Mo Ran’s behavior had taken a complete turn. First there was the firework message on the night of the celebration, announcing to Sisheng Peak and much of the world Mo Ran’s welcome back to his shizun. Later, Chu Wanning fought down a blush, the encounter in the hot springs. Mo Ran now treated him with respect, going so far that one might misconstrued his actions as caring.
A sharp shake of his head dispelled such foolish thoughts from his mind. Mo Ran was simply paying back what he must think to be a life debt. Despite the fact that Chu Wanning would never dream of demanding such a thing from his disciple, Mo Ran had clearly expressed guilt over the circumstances of Chu Wanning’s death. The kind actions would surely stop once the perceived debt had been paid in full.
And all this because Chu Wanning was a deeply selfish man. Even with his disciple forcing himself to care about him, Chu Wanning wasn’t even gracious enough to end his misery. The idea that such an alpha could provide for him, could possibly want to provide for him, was too much for him to turn away. Even if all the affection would fade away one day, Chu Wanning could at least keep these moments in his heart, pulling them out to relive the small kindnesses once again.
“This disciple greets Sect Leader Xue, Shizun.” A honeyed voice brought him back to the present. Mo Ran now stood beside the table Xue Zhengyong and Chu Wanning currently occupied. Inwardly, Chu Wanning cursed himself for getting so easily lost in thought, and all because of this disciple…
Mo Ran had clearly come straight from assisting in the training of the new sect members. His robes were slightly askew, showing a tantalizing peek of the muscular chest beneath, and the sleeves were tied up, exposing his strong arms up to the elbow. In the noon time sun, the tan of his skin glowed, bathing him in a warm halo. His scent seemed to wrap around Chu Wanning, encircling him in a warm embrace of spice and cypress.
“Sit down Ran’er!” Xue Zhengyong gestured animatedly at his nephew, “I was just finishing briefing Yuheng on the mission details.”
“Thank you Uncle.” Mo Ran smiled, he then turned to address Chu Wanning. “This one had received a scroll earlier today and is filled in on the details of the mission.”
Chu Wanning could only nod sharply, desperately trying to mask the blush that had fought to arise when Mo Ran turned his full attention to him. HIs eyes were piercing, and his demeanour suggested that his whole attention was fully devoted towards the one who was speaking. Wishful thinking, Chu Wanning sneered inwardly, banishing the thought from his mind before turning back to Xue Zhengyong.
His only hope to not be left alone with Mo Ran very quickly disappointed him. Casually brushing a wrist against Mo Ran’s in a casual scenting, Xue Zhengyong bid farewell and sauntered off, proclaiming on how he had to “visit the missus” and make sure she was doing well. Just like that, Chu Wanning and Mo Ran were alone together at the table.
The young alpha immediately slid into his uncle’s previous spot with an uncannily similar grin on his face. “This disciple is overjoyed to get to share a mission with Shizun,” Mo Ran said, “Since your waking, I have not had an opportunity to go with Shizun or properly show the skills I learned from travelling.”
What he said was true. With Mo Ran’s worldly experience and new title as a -zongshi, there was no need for him and Chu Wanning to be assigned the same mission. Due to their individual strengths, it made no sense to waste them both on a single mission. Chu Wanning had supposed that this would cut down on his interactions with his disciple, allowing him to enjoy peace and quiet as he dreamed about what could have been. Again, Mo Ran completely upended his expectations. Except for missions, the young alpha appeared everywhere. He was always hovering by the Red Lotus Pavilion, waiting for Chu Wanning with a smile and an offer for tea.
In fact, just earlier this same day, Mo Ran had practically begged Chu Wanning to accompany him to Mengpo Hall for breakfast. Seemingly appearing out of nowhere, he begged, “Won’t shizun accompany this disciple to breakfast? I just want to spend some more time with shizun, but if what shizun wishes for is for this disciple to go away…”
“Nonsense!” Chu Wanning had snapped, face beginning to flush, “Who said that? I am heading there now.” And with that he turned on his heel and marched his way to Mengpo Hall, glowering at any unfortunate disciple to get in his way.
The rest of the breakfast was spent in a similar fashion, Chu Wanning being assaulted with puppy eyes and begging from Mo Ran, as Mo Ran kept piling food in his bowl. Because of his thin face, Chu Wanning could not find a way out and instead found himself eating everything his disciple had given him through copious protests. Even thinking back on it now brought a rush of color to his face.
“Does shizun wish to head out now? This disciple is already packed and can assist shizun if he so wishes.” Mo Ran continued to stare at him, now with his head supported by his palm. A calming scent was wafting his way, causing his shoulders to release the tension held in them and lowering his guard…
The strange attentiveness and care was too much. Chu Wanning shot to his feet, knocking his chair back with a screech. Realizing that Mo Ran was now looking at him in alarm, he straightened his robes and with a forced calm said, “There is no need. I will meet you at the front gate in half a shichen.” And with that, he fled.
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After haphazardly shoving all of his essentials in a qiankun pouch, Chu Wanning proceeded to the front gate. Passing by the Gate of Life or Death, his chest tightened, remembering the fateful night on which he had given his life. Repairing the barrier had already taken all his energy, but Mo Ran had been unconscious. He had no choice but to carry him up the three thousand steps, exhausting the last of his energy. The night was far from a fond memory for any, and few dared to mention it in the Yuheng elder’s presence.
As he approached the front gate, Shi Mei and Mo Ran came into view, the beautiful omega pressing a wrapped parcel into Mo Ran’s hands. Over the past five years, Shi Mingjing had only grown more into his beauty. No alpha in the Lower or Upper Cultivation worlds would even dream of rejecting his hand. However, Mo Ran had always expressed his desire to take him as a mate. Ever since they had met, Mo Ran treated him as a delicate flower, catering to his every need and mooning over him.
How any proper omega is supposed to attract an alpha, Chu Wanning sulked privately. He was more than used to alphas quickly passing over him, but the reminder always stung.
Squaring his shoulders and lifting his chin, he made his way towards the pair, a stern expression fixed upon his face. As if sensing his presence, Mo Ran straightened up immediately, shoving the package back towards Shi Mei. That’s strange, Chu Wanning thought, Mo Ran has never refused a gift from Shi Mei before.
“Shizun!” Mo Ran slipped by Shi Mei, approaching Chu Wanning, “All the preparations for the mission are completed. I have arranged for a horse and carriage for Shizun to travel comfortably.”
“Hn,” Chu Wanning hummed, masking how flustered he felt by the kind gesture, “Let us go then.” Turning towards Shi Mei, he questioned, “What brings you to the gate? Madam Wang and the Tanlang Elder require your assistance in replenishing our stores of medicine.”
The expression on the beautiful omega’s face did not change as he dipped into a bow, “Ah this one apologizes Shizun. I heard that you and Mo-guniang were heading out for a mission and prepared some food for your travels.” With that, he extended the wrapped parcel in Chu Wanning’s direction.
Just as Chu Wanning was about to reach out with thanks to accept the parcel, Mo Ran cut in, positioning his body slightly between the two. With an awkwardly darting gaze, he said, “No need for that. Shizun, I have already made arrangements for the food for our mission. No need for us to take Shi Mei’s.” All the while, he directed a strained smile in Chu Wanning’s direction.
Ahhh, Chu Wanning’s heart sank to his shoes. The carriage, the preparation, it was all so that Shi Mei’s hard work would not have to be shared with him. No wonder, it was foolish to think that it was care. Mo Ran may be more filial, but a bad teacher did not deserve care nor devotion. Mo Ran might force himself to act as though he cared for his teacher, but he could not be blamed for his true emotions slipping through.
His hands balled into fists hidden by his sleeves. Assuming an air of unaffected calm, he began walking towards the gate. “What are you standing there waiting for?” he snapped, “I am leaving.” After such a humiliation, all he could do was retreat swiftly as possible. A bitter undercurrent began muddling his usually placid haitang scent, and he would rather cut off his own hand then let his disciples discover it.
Ignoring the protests that sounded behind him, Chu Wanning descended the steps, too busy erecting yet another wall around his heart to notice the heart-broken expression on Mo Ran’s face.
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The ride had passed by without Chu Wanning speaking a single word. Mo Ran had attempted to start conversation several times during the ride, ringing up the weather, the sweets he had provided and even the mission, but Chu Wanning could only muster up vague noises of affirmation. Although the interaction with Shi Mei had lasted barely a minute, it had successfully destroyed any confidence Chu Wanning had slowly gathered. The delusion that Mo Ran might not completely hate him was banished from his mind.
Try as he might, he could not dispel the bitterness from his scent. Mo Ran kept shifting uncomfortably and stealing glances at him a clear indication that the ugly scent was disturbing him. Even when trying to respect his space, Chu Wanning could not do anything right when concerning Mo Ran.
After a full day’s travel, they had reached the town where the mission had come from. Although on the smaller side, it appeared to be lively, with restaurants and shops still full of people despite the late hour.
After exiting the carriage, Mo Ran attempted to start conversation again. “THis one will go and find an inn for us to stay in. Shizun doesn’t have to worry himself with anything like that.” Chu Wanning could feel his stare boring into him as he spoke and smelled the faintest smell of hope enter his scent.
“Nonsense,” he snapped, “Do you think I would be exhausted after a single carriage ride? We will head to the inn right now.” Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Mo Ran turn his head away, a small smile adorning his face. A figment of my imagination he scoffed.
“Of course not Shizun,” Mo Ran hurried to explain himself, “this one just wanted Shizun to relax. After all, this disciple is here to assist Shizun in any way possible. I’m at your disposal.” The last statement was punctuated with a jaunty smirk sent his way.
“Mo Weiyu!” Chu Wanning hissed, his face finally bursting into flames as he furtively looked around, “shameless. Where is this inn?” With a swirl of his robes, he stormed off in the direction of the inn, refusing to glance back. He could hear Mo Ran lightly chuckling as he followed after him, but refused to acknowledge it, fearing that he would lose what little face he had left.
“Ah Shizun, wait up! This disciple is sorry, don't leave me behind!”