Thank you to everyone who responded to the questions I asked in the ending Author's Notes in the last chapter. The fact that you even took time to read the Notes means a lot to me. So, I'll be sure to keep the feel of the story the same. I'm glad that you find it funnier than the original. I've decided to try and sprinkle some more comedy here and there, unlike concentrating it all one arc, unlike before.
I do agree, that the focus of the story isn't on Issei very much, but that's the intention. I'm sure it'll all make sense later down the story. Just gotta give it time. Besides, that was one of the weak points of the original story. The characters weren't very fleshed out because Issei took over all of the spotlight. They felt a lot more flat to me. Yeah, Vali got attention too, but not everyone else. I wanted to be more fair to the other characters of the Peerage. Don't worry, Issei is still the main character, so don't panic.
I think action is great and all that but I want to try and balance things out with more drama, sadness, and even comedy. It gets kind of stale if everything is just action all the time. As a writer, I want to look for 'more' with what I write instead of just action. I want drama, sadness, comedy, fun. This story is a way to realize all that.
Lastly, shout outs to all you folks: Scrumblenut, Ztassassin555, BeastGod, GhostOnyx777, and Tohka Yatogami. And .5076, I am not offended at all because I perfectly understand where you're coming from. You're also right. The "Good Stuff" is on the way…again. At least, I hope it'll be as good as the original.
Chapter 16: Meeting the Families
Kunlun was unlike anything Issei had ever seen. It was a gigantic mountain of black stone with glowing green wisps flickering from jade cracks on the sides. It was a true green marvel. Yet, that wasn't the most eye-catching thing. Sitting at the top of the mountain was a massive city of red, green, and gold, reminiscent of an ancient Chinese land. If Issei was guessing correctly, it was the size of Beijing, or maybe a bit larger.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to Kunlun." Bikou pointed at the massive mountain.
"Wow, it's beautiful." Lefay noted.
"Yeah, it is. It might not float in the sky like Takama-Ga-Hara, but it's still beautiful in its own way. The mountain's made of jade infused with magic from the Five Elements, mastered by the Jade Emperor and Empress." Issei stated.
The group turned to stare at him.
"What? I read." Issei looked back blankly.
"So, where do we start? I'd imagine you'd want to make some rounds." Vali asked.
Bikou smiled.
"We can do that later. I've gotta go visit my family first. Now that I think about it, I haven't introduced any of you to them, have I?" Bikou sheepishly said.
"Well, considering how you were banished, no, you didn't." Kuroka snarked.
"Well, let's do that. I promised the old man that I'd visit the family first before going anywhere else." Bikou said excitedly.
To equal his reputation, Sun Wukong's home was quite extraordinary. It was almost like a palace. Black tiles upon red walls and pillars with golden statues of monkeys was what made up Sun Wukong's home of 10 stories. Monkey guards stood outside the doors, though there were a mix of genuine monkeys and half-human ones like Sun Wukong, with human ones like Bikou as well.
When Bikou walked towards the red gates with a matching door, he was greeted politely by the guards before being allowed in.
"Welcome back, Lord Mei Hou. Your family is waiting for you." One guard said as he pushed the door open.
'Well, that was a warm greeting.' Issei thought to himself.
He could see the judgmental glares others were throwing at Bikou and the group, specifically Kuroka. Despite his good intentions, the apparent shame that Bikou brought upon the house was clearly of larger importance to these people. As for Kuroka, he wasn't too sure. He had a feeling it was because she was a Nekomata and of a foreign Pantheon by origin. Honestly, he thought it was stupid to be territorial like that.
"Well, you kept your promise."
The doors to the Main House opened, revealing Sun Wukong.
"I did make a promise." Bikou retorted.
"Enough with the standing and staring. Come in. Your mother practically cooked an entire farm."
The group walked into the Main House and were met with servants. Issei made sure to be mindful of his manners, as one always should. He gave his jacket to a servant before taking his shoes off and wearing ones given to guests. Before long, they guided them to the Main Room. Waiting for them, were 2 individuals who were strangers to the group, sans Bikou, who looked happy.
The first person looked remarkably like Bikou, though, he had bushy sideburns that almost touched his beard and brown eyes. His brown hair was long, tied back into a braided ponytail. As for his attire, it was a red and gold, being traditional noble Chinese clothing.
The second person was a woman with a youthful appearance. She had long black hair, golden eyes, and wore a blue dress with her hair tied into a bun with floral pins keeping it together. Her skin was slightly pale but her stature was strong and confident that matched her noble attire.
"It's been a long time, Mei Hou."
"I've returned, Mother, Father." Bikou knelt in front of his parents.
"Hello, everyone. My name is Bang Hou." Bikou's father introduced himself.
"And I am He Xiuying. We've heard many things about you all. Please make yourselves at home."
Everyone shook hands respectfully with Bikou's parents before beginning pleasantries.
"Greetings, Lord and Lady Jin. My name is Vali Lucifer. It is an honor to be allowed within your grand home. Please accept these humble gifts." Vali politely handed them wrapped packages.
"There was no need to bring such grand gestures. Please, don't worry." Xiuying gently pushed the gifts back.
"By all means, it was of no trouble for the family of a dear friend."
"Thanks to you, our son has is alive and well. We could ask no more." Xiuying gently passed the gifts back.
Again, Vali handed the gifts to her.
"I insist. Consider it a gesture of great admiration." She politely smiled.
Finally, Xiuying relented and accepted the gifts, handing them to a butler.
"My, there was no need to bring gifts. It is our honor to have you all as guests. Thanks to you, our foolish son has had a home to live in and a life to renew." Xiuying smiled.
After everyone introduced themselves soon after, the family began to converse. It was normal, really. No outright arguments, no talking about fights, no accusations or crying. It was just a calm and comforting moment for parent and child. Bikou and his parents traded information concerning what had happened in the past few years as if eager to just know what sort of things the other experienced.
"So, I see that you've become a part of a Devil Peerage." Bang Hou noted.
"Yes, it was at a time when I thought I'd never be able to come home." Bikou casually responded.
"As long as you're safe, that's all that matters." Xiuying nodded.
"So, has your great-grandfather told you about it? About Lianshi?"
Bikou nodded.
"How is she? Well?" He asked.
"She's alive and well, if that's what you mean. The Peach of Immortality has done wonders for her. As for the curse, Grandfather removed it after being relieved of duty to Indra. However, her wedding to Sun Quan is drawing nearer and nearer. I assume you're going to go see her?" Xiuying asked.
"I am. I came by to see just how everyone was doing." Bikou said softly.
"Well, you need to address the Jade Emperor and Empress before you do anything else. You must meet with the rulers of this Mountain before anything else. You have yet to apologize to the Jade Empress as well. The last thing we want is for you to offend them again."
Bikou only nodded.
"You'll go in the morning. For now, relax and stay for the night. We've made dinner for everyone. It is a humble supper, but please accept it." Xiuying stood up and gestured toward the Dining Room.
"Yes, I've grown even older just waiting for your talk to end." Wukong puffed his pipe.
"Grandfather, please extinguish your pipe." Xiuying calmly scolded him.
Silently doing as told, everyone waited for Bang Hou to guide everyone to their seats.
"No need to be so formal here. Please eat and drink to your heart's content. Us here on Kunlun don't adhere to those ancient traditions anymore. As you can tell, our son has a lack of manners." Bang Hou smiled.
As dinner progressed, Bikou began settling back into some of his more open behavior. With a loud belch, he nearly shook the entire table to the ground.
"Whoops." He gave a content sigh.
His family only laughed.
"At least you still like my cooking." Xiuying smiled.
"It hasn't changed one bit, Mom." Bikou chuckled.
Wukong merely chuckled as he watched his descendants interact. It was as if Bikou had never left. Issei had actually thought it was kind of weird. Bikou was usually more carefree and sometimes lacked manners or decorum. Here, he was as well-mannered as a butler that served a king. Not only that, but his tone was much more serious, even tender. Perhaps Bikou wanted to show just how much he'd changed and how grateful he was. Bikou had told them that his parents had fought tooth and nail for the return of their son.
"Back then, you used to be so well-mannered and polite. Yet, as soon as you got home or when you were with Lianshi, you'd immediately do as you pleased. I hope you haven't started causing trouble now that you're free." Wukong sighed.
"I'm not that bad."
"Sometimes." Vali retorted.
When dinner was over, everyone retired for the night, leaving Bikou to keep talking to his parents in the Living Room.
"So, those're your new friends?" Bang Hou asked.
"Yep. Why?"
"I may not be as powerful as Grandfather, but I can tell that your group isn't normal by any standard. That silver-haired girl and boy with glasses do a good job hiding their power. As for that Nekoshou, she constantly exudes a dark aura. I'd advise her to learn how to control it. That young witch doesn't have a powerful aura but I won't talk too soon about it. As for that boy…the Japanese one…What's his gimmick? His aura is different from anything I've sensed before. It's cold but violent. It's like a fiery storm with a massive eye." Bang Hou inquired.
"Dear, others are entitled to their own secrets." Xiuying interjected.
Bang Hou merely sighed. His curiosity wouldn't leave him alone.
"Let's not invade their privacy. Tell me, have you found anyone yet?" Xiuying asked.
Bikou shook his head.
"I had a feeling. You and Lianshi used to be so close as children. However, think this through very carefully, Mei Hou. A second punishment will be worse than banishment."
"I know. Still, I just came to check things out first. Who knows, she might actually like what's happening. I just want to see the truth." Bikou lowered his head, smiling.
"Then you'd best some rest. You'll have to go and see the Emperor and Empress tomorrow morning. Grandfather has already set up the meeting."
Bikou nodded. He was already so nervous that he wanted to vomit.
As planned, the Peerage went with the Jin family to meet with the Jade Emperor and Jade Empress. The Jade Palace was a massive red and black structure with statues of gold and jade all across the area. Towering over everything else, was the massive Palace itself, which seemed to be no less than 20 floors. All around them, was a massive courtyard with a stone path, patches of golden flowers, and columns of emerald pillars that led into other sections of the Palace via open halls.
"So…shall I wait outside?" Issei cleared his throat due to the imposing appearance of the Jade Palace.
"I insist that you enter. There's no need to be afraid. The Jade Emperor and Empress are nowhere near as bad as they're depicted in fiction. That's why I got away with so much." Wukong chuckled.
"Now, no more talking. We'll be late if we keep chatting." Xiuying said.
Entering the room where the Emperor and Empress were enthroned, Issei was utterly amazed. Gentle rivers of glowing green water poured down from spouts in the walls. Rows of red seats were neatly lined up for the Royal Court on both sides of the room. In the middle of the room, was a carpeted space for those with an audience with the Jade Emperor and Empress. At the end of the room, were 2 golden thrones with jade dragons designed upon them, intricately coiling around the thrones.
Seated there were the Jade Emperor and Empress. The Emperor had long silver hair with a matching beard and mustache. His robes were green with golden hems. Circling around it, was a jade dragon and over his robes, was a massive jade coat. However, what was most striking about him, was that his eyes glowed green, radiating with great authority befitting of someone with his reputation.
Beside him, was the Jade Empress, who had long silver hair tied into a bun. She wore matching clothes, only, it was one long dress with a golden sash around her waist. Her eyes also glowed green. While her husband radiated authority and wisdom, she exuded an aura of more tenderness and wisdom.
"Greetings to your Great Majesties. May you live for all time." Bikou knelt and declared, kowtowing to them.
The Emperor raised his hand.
"You may stand. Your crimes are lifted and all records of your deeds have been erased. You are now on equal footing with all citizens of these lands. Do not fall back into your flaws. Be patient, be understanding, and do not let anger and desperation control you anymore." The Jade Emperor warned him.
"Jin Mei Hou, after 4 years, your sentence has finally been lifted. You may return to these lands as you will it. However, this sentence has its own set of rules. You may not enter the Pool where the Elixir of Life is created. The Gardens to the Peaches of Immortality are barred. Also, you previous status as a guardian of the Palace are revoked. You are now to return to your position as heir to your House or whichever title you now hold. Do you understand?"
"This lowly servant understands your kindness and forgiveness. He shall never again squander the blessings you have given him." Bikou touched his forehead to the ground with utmost sincerity.
"Our business is now finished. Your standing is known and your boundaries are set. You may leave."
As the group was about to leave, the Empress raised a hand.
"However, we wish to speak to two of you."
"Validia Lucifer and the young man next to her may stay."
Not one to argue and not wanting to anger the rulers of Kunlun, Issei and Vali remained.
"I take it that your Grandfather and leaders wish to hear our answer?" The Jade Emperor asked.
"Yes."
"Regarding the matters of alliances, we will remain impartial for a while longer. I'm sure you can understand."
Vali was silent.
"War is not something that our lands are waging anymore. Those times are past. The Khaos Brigade has proven to be most troublesome, with their members being considerably powerful. Many of our immortals were scholars, not warriors. We do not have the strength to defend our lands if they attack. I'm sure you can understand."
"I do. We can promise you aid and protection, if that's desired. However, we don't wish to force you into a situation. Whether you join or not is entirely your choice, no strings attached, and no resentment will be held. However, do please understand our pleas."
"We will take your words into consideration. Now, with all of these politics removed, you are free to traverse these lands as much as you like. Aside from the lands that have been barred to others, you will be allowed to travel as you please as a guest. However, understand that the breaking of the law and violations to our codes, is punishable. Please be mindful of yourselves." The Jade Emperor warned.
"We understand."
"As for what Jin Mei Hou may plan…you may do as you please."
"Excuse me?" Vali asked.
"The arranged marriage between Lianshi and Sun Quan was a matter set up by the two families. It is of a matter that does not require Imperial intervention. Mei Hou was banished for his love and that was not something that I wished to do but had to. To strike my wife is something that couldn't have gone unscathed. Other than that, he has my respect. I do not wish to intervene with love."
"I understand."
"Now, young man, may we know your name."
"Your Majesties, my name is Hyoudou Issei."
"I see. Tell me, are you a member of Lady Vali's Peerage?" The Jade Emperor asked.
"I am not." Issei responded.
"I understand. Tell me, young man, for why did you accompany this group here? Were you promised reward?"
"No, I came of my own will. My friend asked me to come and I wanted to help him." Issei answered.
"I mean, why do you stay with them? I don't sense the essence of a Devil within your chi or your soul. You're not obligated to help or follow them and yet you do. Why is that?"
Issei was silent for a bit. He wasn't sure why the Jade Emperor wanted to probe him for so much information…Wait, did he know that he was the Host of Bahamut?
"I just want to help them. I consider them very dear friends. They came to my side when I was alone and stood with me through many obstacles. They accepted me without discrimination and never forced me to do anything. I will never forget their kindness and everything I do with them, is because I want to help them. That is all there is to my reasons, Your Majesty."
The Jade Emperor and Empress smiled in satisfaction.
"It seems, you've found a very good friend to have by your side. Take care of him and don't ever let him go. To find someone who'd be willing to go through so much with you is rare." The Empress turned to Vali.
"I understand."
With their audience finished, Issei and Vali left the premises of the Jade Palace.
"I pictured them to be harsher." Issei noted.
He was still wondering why they wanted to talk to him, specifically since he had nothing to offer. Were they trying to peer into his character and Vali's?
"They seemed nice, albeit stern. Still, we've got the green light. It's just up to us not to get crazy." Vali smiled nervously. She already knew it. With Issei and Bikou in one place, they'd do something crazy.
She'd been worrying about what course of action was best. She knew it was going to get political, since this all involved the Chinese Pantheon. However, now that the Jade Emperor vowed not to blow things out of the water, they were sort-of in the clear. If push-came-to-shove, they could bring Lianshi with them to the Underworld if necessary and with her consent.
"What do you think of this?" Vali asked.
"Huh?"
"I mean, this whole thing with Bikou? It's kind of romantic, isn't it?" Vali asked.
"It is, but…it's kind of sad, if you ask me." Issei said.
"Why is that?"
"I mean, there's the possibility that Lian Shi moved on. Four years can change a lot. Who knows how she feels." Issei sighed.
Vali paused. She knew that look that he had on his face. Furrowed brows, arms crossed, and a distant gaze. He was thinking of something. He had that same look when he meddled with Lefay and Embern.
"Issei…what're you planning?" She asked.
"Nothing. Nothing at all." He coyly responded.
Who was a demon now? Honestly, Issei was really creepy sometimes.
"Still, don't you ever see yourself in those steps?" Vali asked.
"What steps?"
"Being in love or just having a crush."
Issei went silent.
"To be honest, no. I've never really thought about it."
"Don't you want one?"
"Honestly, I think I'm a bit out of touch with it. With others, I'm all for it. As for myself, I just get the feeling it wouldn't work out." Issei shrugged.
"Why is that?" Vali looked at him sadly.
"Don't know. I just get a gut feeling. I don't think I'm boyfriend material. I'd just be a friend, really. I'm probably too much of a free spirit. If I'm honest, I'd probably go where I please without others with me." Issei chuckled.
"That's sad, Issei." Vali looked at him sympathetically.
"Well, I've grown up by myself, usually. My parents always made sure I could take care of myself, so I didn't really interact with others. Maybe I'm socially awkward or inept in certain situation."
"You know, how come your parents leave you behind like that? Who would do that to their own child?" Vali asked.
Issei slowly grew even more quiet. His jovial attitude diminished and he became a bit more serious. He took a deep breath.
(Tan Du/Hero – For The World. Play Song.)
"Before I was born, my dad lost his job. Our relatives were few and many of them passed away from illness or accidents. Around that time, nobody was there for them. My parents were in poverty and homeless, living in a makeshift and abandoned shack. My mother was sick and my father was almost a literal bag of bones. She was also pregnant with me. However, one day, my dad managed to get lucky and met the right people and landed a job at a company. He slowly climbed his way up and got our family out of the homeless slums. Thanks to that, my mother recovered and I was able to be born when they moved to Kuoh. If she got any worse, she might've miscarried me along with losing herself. After all that, my mom also decided to take up a job, since she was a housewife before they went into poverty. She wanted to contribute even more so that my dad didn't have to pay the bills alone. With both of their skills and hard work, they swore they'd never let any of their children experience poverty like they did. They worked themselves to the bone, saving up money for me and any other siblings that might come along so that we don't suffer like they did."
Issei sadly smiled at Vali.
"A lot of people say that being together is what matters most. I agree with that, but sometimes, you just have to make sacrifices to get to the big picture, to the vast distance far down the road. We can't have everything go the way we want. People can talk shit about my parents all they like, but I'm sure a lot of those people don't understand the kinds of lives my parents lived and the suffering they endured. They work every day, even if it's far away so that they can create a comfortable life for each other and their children so they don't taste starvation and poverty. Yes, I'm lonely, but they always make sure that I'm okay. They're there when I need someone to talk to. The phone's right next to me. They send me money to get what I need and they make sure that I remember what's truly important and what's wrong. It's not all about money for them either. It just removes burdens from our lives, is all. They taught me to be kind, to be patient, and to always help others because that's what saved them and that's the right thing to do. They may not physically be here, but I know that they love me just as much as I love them, even if words aren't traded. I have no ill will towards them because they taught me how to live by myself while also making it clear to me that I'm not alone. So, the people that say they're terrible, clearly don't understand where my parents are coming from, nor do they understand what sort of bad things could happen. Not everyone has lived in a house where a store is close by and food and medicine were easily accessible or obtainable. Some people only had sticks and leaves to hold over their heads. Tell me, who would want that life to come back and haunt them and their future descendants? A life of struggling in order to survive where your next meal may not come for days and illness is always growing inside of you? The main reason why my parents work so hard for so long so far away, is because they're trying their hardest to ensure a bright future for the family. At the same time, they care for me and they never left me by myself until they were sure that I was strong enough to be alone. When I try to understand them, it all makes sense to me. Sure, I'd love it if I could come home to see a warm and bright family, but that's not what life is like. Sometimes, you've gotta make sacrifices if there's no third options. For the sake of the people you love, you have to shove happiness aside for their own good. You can't be happy if you don't survive to experience it." Issei said.
Vali was silent. Now…she had a very good look at who Issei was underneath that goofy mask. He thought deeply and knew how to think from other perspectives. She knew he was like that before, but with that story, it was refreshed and thrown back into her face with just why he was like this. He wore a happy mask to hide his loneliness because he knew that's just how things had to be. His parents worked hard and far away in order to make sure that their family lived comfortably so that those dark days never returned. Everything they did, was for the sake of the family's survival and they did their damned hardest to also try and be a happy family. Their bond was as strong as ever, as they understood each other. Issei was from a family of trust.
(Tan Du/Hero – For The World. End Song.)
"I'm sorry. I shouldn't have judged your parents." Vali bowed her head low.
"Eh, it's fine. I mean, it's not like you could tell what my family history was just from looking. Now, let's get going. I'm sure Bikou and the others are waiting for us." Issei gestured for her to follow.
"Right." Vali smiled, while now internalizing what she just learned.
When the two met up with Bikou and the others, Issei immediately tugged Vali to the side, hiding behind some bushes before they could be seen. A fair distance away from them, Bikou was talking to an incredibly beautiful woman.
She had long raven-black hair that was tied into a low ponytail that draped over her shoulder with a red ribbon. She wore a green shirt with black pants and brown boots. Her eyes were honey-gold with her skin being milky pale and her figure was extremely well-endowed, probably rivalling Rias in size while having a more matured form.
"Whoa, Lianshi's beautiful. No wonder Bikou's smitten with her." Issei noted.
"How do you know that?"
"Look at how he's interacting with her. He's blushing, constantly scratching the back of his neck, and he can barely look away from her. He's even fumbling his words a bit right now. Bikou never fumbles with words and he's not as comfortably calm as usual. That has to be Lianshi that he's talking to. He looks like a shy schoolboy that's talking to his crush." Issei deduced.
True, Bikou was exhibiting some of his tics when nervous, but Vali was more curious about something else. Kuroka wasn't looking too good. She had a sad frown on her face and most of all, she was looking back and forth between Bikou and Lianshi.
"So, are these your friends?" Lianshi asked.
"Yeah. This is Kuroka, Arthur, Lefay, and Elaine. My two other friends are on their way here."
"I'm really happy that your sentence has been lifted, Mei Hou." Lianshi smiled brightly.
"Same. It really has been a long time, Lianshi." Bikou gave her a hug.
She returned the tight embrace.
"Alright then, since it's been so long, let's find a good place for a long chat. Let's go into town. All of us." Lianshi looked at everyone.
"No need to trouble yourselves. We don't wish to intrude. Please enjoy yourselves. We also have some business to attend to." Arthur politely declined.
He knew Bikou had been looking forward to seeing her again, having known about his past.
"I understand." Lianshi nodded.
With that, the two childhood friends walked off, urgently wanting to spend more time together.
"So, what was all that about?" Issei walked out of the bushes.
"DAH!" Everyone jumped.
"Why do you always do that?!" Kuroka demanded.
"Not important. What's the lowdown?"
"As soon as Bikou saw her, he ran right over and started yapping." Kuroka flatly said.
Issei was a bit surprised. Kuroka was not the kind of person to rain on a parade.
"They started talking and then they walked off. Anyways, what about you two? What did the Emperor want?" Elaine asked.
"He told us the rules and where we're allowed to go along with some other matters." Vali vaguely responded, although, she was blushing a bit.
Recalling Issei's words really warmed her heart. To think that he cherished the Peerage this much touched her deeply.
"So, I take it Bikou's going to find out about what the story is?" Issei asked.
"Yeah, I'm sure of it."
"Well, that leaves us with nothing to do."
Issei took note of the awkward silence.
"Or not…" He trailed off.
'He's up to something again…' Everyone sighed.
The city of Kunlun was much like an ancient Chinese city, though with some modern elements, such as magical transit. Bikou and Lianshi stepped into one of the teahouses that her family owned. While they mainly did security and bodyguard work, they ran a side-business that served tea and dim sum.
"The tea still tastes the same." Bikou sighed with satisfaction.
"Well, we do our best. I'm glad you still like the Fruit Tea." Lianshi smiled into her cup before ruffling his hair.
Messing his hair up a bit, Bikou's hairstyle went back to having bangs, reducing his resemblance to a monkey.
"That's the Bikou I remember." Lianshi chuckled while smiling.
(Kung Fu Hustle OST – Zhi Yao Wei/Mute Girl Theme. Play Song.)
Bikou cleared his throat. He almost forgot to swallow his tea. Right now, he was being thrown into a sea of nostalgia. They used to do this all the time when they were even younger. When Bikou was done with training and Lianshi had her regular examination, they'd run down to the teahouse and hang out. This trip to the past was something that he didn't know he'd missed.
"So, what've you been up to till now?" Lianshi asked.
"Oh, you know, just going around and doing stuff. I joined a Peerage and now I'm working for the Lucifer House. I mainly do odd jobs and make contracts with humans and other creatures."
"Sounds adventurous." Lianshi smiled.
"It kind of is. I meet new people and experience new things once in a while. Almost every day can be a new day. What about you? Has your curse completely gone away?" Bikou asked.
Lianshi looked down sadly. Her grip on her cup tightened. She nodded.
"Y-Yeah, it is…" She trailed off.
"What's wrong?" Bikou asked.
Lianshi's sudden loss of enthusiasm and the growing silence worried him.
"I'm so sorry, Mei Hou. It's all my fault that you got banished." Lianshi whispered, forlorn.
Bikou shook his head.
"Hey, it's not your fault. I decided to be an idiot and attacked out of panic. That's just cause and effect. Besides, you're alive and well. That's all that matters." He said.
Lianshi still didn't lose her guilty expression.
"I can't ever thank you enough for doing that for me."
"Don't tell me you got punished?" Bikou asked worriedly.
"No, I was fine." Lianshi shook her head.
"Then it's all fine. No need for apologies, crying, or guilt. It's all in the past now. Let's just go back to how things were before." Bikou smiled.
Lianshi nodded.
"So, tell me, about this Peerage thing…I heard that when you join, you become a devil." She said.
Bikou found it a bit weird, the way she was asking. She sounded nervous, uncomfortable, and even…scared? He knew that look on her face all too well. She looked fearful, as if scared of his answer. He was kind of hesitant to respond, afraid of her reaction.
"Well, it's true that that process happened in the past. However, that's no longer the case. The creator of the Peerage System made it so that it only serves as a symbol of affiliation. Now, you have to take a procedure to become one." Bikou explained.
Lianshi gulped.
"I happened to have taken it." Bikou admitted.
Lianshi nodded.
"So, you're a devil now." She remarked.
Bikou felt his stomach drop. He knew her too well to be fooled. That sadness in her eyes told him stories. She was disappointed and hurt. Unknown to Bikou, Lianshi was ready to cry for reasons unknown to others.
"Yeah, I became one because I thought I'd never be allowed back. I mean, I attacked the Jade Empress. I should've been killed on the spot for that. But, thanks to everyone, I got off with a banishment. I became a devil because I thought that was it for me. I thought I would never be coming back. At the time, it seemed like a good idea since I had nothing. The family wasn't allowed to help me, so I literally had nothing." Bikou avoided her sad gaze.
"Can you undo it?" Lianshi asked.
"I can't exactly do it, no."
Lianshi looked away, her lips pursed in disappointment.
"I understand." She went silent.
This wasn't how Bikou had wanted things to go. The atmosphere was souring rapidly. It had been 4 years and he had wanted to see her so desperately. He didn't want things to be spoiled like this.
"So, what about you? What's your life been like?" Bikou asked tenderly.
Lianshi cleared her throat. That was just like her. She would shove away whatever negativity she was feeling and pretend otherwise.
"Well, I've finally been able to experience a lot of things. I've learned magic and martial arts, so I can protect myself and others. I've also joined the Royal Guard around the Jade Palace. So, for the past 4 years, I've finally reached where you were." She said.
"I see. I'm looking forward to seeing you in action. That reminds me, I heard that you're getting married?" Bikou asked.
Lianshi avoided his gaze, nodding.
"Yeah, my parents arranged it between me and Sun Quan."
"Mind telling me about it?" Bikou asked.
"Well, you know how the Sun family's been a crime family? Our parents made a deal. If Sun Quan and I marry, the Sun family will leave the crime business and we'll allow them to become a legitimate business and all wrongs by both families will be wiped clean. They've even started going into law and legal business."
Bikou was already immensely bothered.
"What's the point of the marriage if these're the terms? It doesn't require marriage."
"You know how it is around here. Through marriage, both spouses will be at risk. By having their children marry, both families will be in limbo because the opposing family could harm the other's offspring."
"Yeah, that same old your child is a bargaining chip crap." Bikou growled.
"You know how violent things were for the Sun and Bu families. It was a bloodbath before both families came to Kunlun. Things can't keep up. If both families openly fight, the Jade Emperor would step in. All the same, neither family can keep their followers reigned in forever. Even if we, the descendants, don't hate each other, our allies do. This is the most peaceful way to satisfy both sides." Lianshi reasoned.
"But, you could've just gone to my grandfather for help." Bikou declared.
"Yes, we could've, but you need to think bigger, Mei Hou. If we went to your family for help, one of the greatest houses of Kunlun, then it'd show that we were using full force, as if to crush the Sun family or permanently damage them. It would create even more resentment and fear, which can push people to do terrible things. Sometimes, help from above isn't always good." Lianshi explained.
"Lianshi, what about you, are you happy with this?" Bikou asked.
"I am." She quickly answered.
"Really?" He skeptically asked.
"Mei Hou, it's not as one-sided as you think. Sun Quan is a good man, a very good man. As time has gone by, I've found myself impressed and charmed by him. I'm fully prepared and happy to marry him. You're my best friend. I truly appreciate that, but don't worry so much." Lianshi smiled.
Bikou retreated a bit. He knew that smile. It was a resolute and honest smile that she only wore when speaking her mind. He knew her well enough to understand when she was faking it and being honest. He went silent. He felt himself going cold as his legs lost feeling.
"I-I see."
"Mei Hou, I'm genuinely happy and content with this conclusion. Not all arranged marriages are bad, you know." Lianshi chuckled.
"I'm sure. I just wanted to see if you were happy." Bikou sheepishly confessed.
"Sure, politics played a role in this, but after spending more and more time with Sun Quan, I've learned that he's a good man, despite his family's profession."
"I understand. Well, I've gotta go home now. My parents still need to talk to me so…hang out tomorrow?" Bikou suggested.
That was a lie. He just wanted to step away for a bit. He didn't feel right. He wasn't composed enough. So, he had to go and clear his head. He had to come back once he was ready to push for the truth.
(Kung Fu Hustle OST – Zhi Yao Wei/Mute Girl Theme. End Song.)
"Sure. You still need to tell me the whole story of what you've been doing." Lianshi giggled.
Waving goodbye to each other, the two childhood friends went their separate ways. Lianshi stayed at her family's teahouse while Bikou went back to the Jin estate. It was almost symbolic, rather, too symbolic.
"So, why did we follow them?" Vali asked.
The entire Peerage was sitting at a distant table in the Teahouse, looking from afar at Issei's insistence.
"Cus, it's better to see it, rather than just hear it. We'd get the whole truth this way. But, damn, I couldn't hear all of it." Issei cursed.
"Yeah, but why do you have to be a creep about it?" Kuroka asked.
"Because, why would you want to be in the middle of that intense moment? Come on, I'm messed up but not that messed up." Issei looked at her, offended.
"At least he admits it." Arthur shrugged.
"You know, she might see and hear you."
Everyone screamed at the sudden voice. Turning to see who it was, they were stunned to find that Sun Wukong was there.
"Lord Wukong." Vali regarded him respectfully.
"Please, no honorifics, child. Just think of me as another old man." He chuckled while sipping his peach tea.
"May we ask what brings you here?"
"I've come bringing a message from the Jade Emperor and Empress. They'll give greater consideration towards joining the Alliance if a favor is accomplished."
Vali raised brow. So, this is what it came down to? Sending them around on a string of jobs, possibly fatal situations just to get them to sign up? She wasn't surprised, but she'd had higher expectations for the characters of the Jade Emperor and Empress.
"Don't be so judgmental, child. I understand where you're coming from, but there is a legitimate reason for this." Wukong chuckled.
'How did he know what I was thinking?' Vali backed away slightly.
"The Emperor is only doing this because he knows many others aren't up to the task. You see, before you all came for a visit, the Khaos Brigade has already poked at us a few times. They're after something here. However, Kunlun is a land full of magic and it houses many things. As it stands, it's probably the Hero Faction. They've taken to taking items of value and weapons as well as recruiting gifted humans to their cause. The Empress has also had a vision mere minutes ago." Wukong said.
"A vision?" Issei asked.
"Yes. The Jade Empress has a superior level of foresight compared to the Emperor. She's seen that an attack will happen in four days. It'll be to the East and it will progress to here. If you can help deal with this threat, then they will consider joining."
Issei was a bit irked. Was the Alliance truly so desperate for what Kunlun had to offer that the monarchs would throw this deal at them? He didn't like it. Vali was silent, considering what to do.
"Very well. We'll take up the task." Vali nodded.
"Excellent. If you will, please follow me. We'll discuss matters more thoroughly in private." Wukong gestured for Vali to follow.
This left the Peerage alone to talk and just sit around. They didn't know their way around, Bikou was there to guide them, and most of all, there was too much going on to even know where to begin.
Then, came along more trouble.
"Oh dear, do you smell that? I smell a lot of foul things." Someone said.
"Yes, I do. Smells like rotten fur and molding flesh."
"Ah, to think that such company would be allowed in here."
Kuroka's brow twitched. She knew whoever that person was, they were referring to their group. She sipped her tea quietly, ignoring the comments.
"And they're clearly deaf."
The group kept quiet. That irked the perpetrators only further. Eventually, they came face-to-face with them. It was a group of men and women, around their late teens, wearing noble clothing.
"So, what brings foreign faces like you to Kunlun?" One of them asked.
Again, the group stayed silent. Answering him would only make things worse.
"Huh? Can't even speak, either? Then don't drink." One boy tried to slap the tea out of Issei's hand.
Issei stepped back slightly, narrowly avoiding the hit.
"Could you not bother us, please? We're only trying to enjoy our tea." He sighed.
"Pig piss is better for your kind. Let me give you some useful info. Kunlun doesn't like outsiders, especially you half-breeds." One boy looked at Kuroka.
She stopped. Finally opening her eyes, she glared at him with dangerous slit pupils.
"You finally looked this way, mongrel." The thug snickered.
"You've got 10 seconds to back off and take your friends somewhere else. I haven't been in a good mood recently, so don't piss me off further."
"A girl with a costume like yours is really funny. You show off your assets and yet, you don't want attention?"
"Touch me and you're going to lose an eye." Kuroka warned again, opening her palm.
"Ooh, this one is tough. I'm surprised, since a nekomata like you is all alone here. You're a black cat too. People should be careful around you, don't you agree?"
What Issei saw next was very unsettling. The very air around Kuroka instantly changed. He felt a surge of chills wash over him. The desire to hurt was emanating even stronger from Kuroka…perhaps bordering the desire to kill. He wasn't the only one who felt it. Almost everyone around them did as well. Lefay stood up quickly. Judging with how she was moving and the look on her face, it looked like she was going to slap him across the face or maybe even hit him with a spell. He was about to stop her, knowing that this was a trap, but he didn't get the chance.
"Hey now, leave these folks alone. They're visitors from foreign lands. Let's let them have a good time, please. None of this needs to even happen. Not only that, but you're dishonoring our lands. Is this how we're supposed to be? Bullies?"
A young man with a red jacket with golden hems and white pants walked up. He had short banged black hair and golden eyes and looked to be about the same age as Bikou and the others.
"Beat it, bum. This is between us. Unless you want the same thing to happen to you."
"Come on guys, it's not worth it. Seriously, you don't want to mess with these people. Sun Wukong was just talking to them."
That scared off most of them, except for one.
"You know, throwing big names around like that is a major thing."
"And who're you?" The Red-Jacketed man asked.
"I'm Yu Jin Di, descendant of Yu Shen."
'Oh, no wonder he's such a prick. His ancestor's the Chinese deity of the afterlife and imprisonment.' Issei sighed in exasperation.
"Oh, so you're from the prison district. I understand. Tell me, how would your family react if they knew about you behaving like this?"
For a fraction of a moment, Yu Shen's smugness faltered.
"Hmph, big talk coming from a nobody. Let's see how tough you are when you're sent to East Yard." Yu Shen snapped his fingers.
Immediately, a large escort of troops waltzed in. The Red-Jacketed man wasn't even fazed.
"Still so smug. Well, I'll wipe that look off your face soon enough." Yu Shen signaled for the troops to attack.
"Hmph. Where's your highest ranking officer?"
"Here."
Someone waltzed into the room as if he were a proud lion. The way he carried himself made it clear that his own perception of himself was very high. He probably thought the Jade Emperor was his butler.
"Who are you?"
"Tai Zhong. I am a captain of the Kunlun Prisons."
"I see. Then are all your troops assembled?"
"Are you looking to challenge us, boy?" Zhong Tai asked.
The Red-Jacketed man produced something from his garments. It was a golden plate with a jade dragon upon it. For some reason, Issei felt familiar with it.
Everyone within the Tea House gasped. They immediately dropped to their knees and kowtowed with their heads touching the ground.
"Does this mean anything to you?" The Red-Jacketed man asked.
"Yes, it is only given to those of high authority amongst the Heavenly Imperial Court."
"Do you know which one this is?"
"It belongs to the Judicial Affairs Branch." Tai Zhong whimpered.
"Exactly! I am a one of the judges of the entire mountain. I know none of you are from the Prison Jurisdictions. You're impersonators that bully the citizens of Kunlun Mountain. Not only have you harassed and defaced esteemed guests, but you have besmirched the honor of our lands. Do you even know who it is that you've attempted to torment?"
"A N-Nekomata, Sir."
"A short-sighted answer. This is a member of the Lucifer Household amongst the Devils, the highest House in the Underworld and one their leaders. If they asked for it, your heads could be served upon silver platters." The Red-Jacketed Man said.
'Please don't say that. People will think they're blood-thirsty.'
"Did you know that if you're caught impersonating an official or a member of the Jade Government, the penalty is death?" The Red-Jacketed Man asked again.
"W-We understand. We confess our crimes. We deserve the harshest of punishments. Please be merciful just this once, My Lord." Zhao Tai begged. His voice was trembling so much that Issei felt sorry for him.
"I have yet to uncover just how far your crimes go. For now, you will be punished with a sentence of community service for one year, along with a fine placed upon all of you for whatever you've extorted from others. If you dare impersonate an officer or relative of a deity again, then your sentence will escalate. Death would not be far away. Do you understand me? Even if you don't, leave this place and do not return to create trouble." The Red-Jacketed Man said.
He sighed as the troublemakers scrambled out the door. He turned around and found that everyone was awkwardly sitting down in total silence. It was so quiet that the sound of the air seemed loud.
"Now, what's all this? Go ahead and enjoy yourselves." He laughed.
"T-Thank you for standing up for us." Issei cleared his throat.
"Don't worry about that. It's not like I'm the Jade Prince or anything. I'm just a government official. Besides, I don't like being treated any differently than others. My name is Sun Quan, by the way. Sorry for not saying it until now."
Issei looked nervously towards the others. They were all sweating and contemplating. Over the past few months, Issei had learned the ability to talk to the others with mere glances. The gang was borderline telepathic when doing this.
'Do we make a run for it?' Kuroka looked nervous.
'No, don't do that. It might offend him.' Arthur sighed.
'Where's Vali or Bikou when you need them?!' Lefay whimpered.
'Guys, relax. Be calm and cool. Let's just act like nothing's happened and it'll all be okay.' Issei interjected.
"So, who's next on deathrow?" Issei asked nervously, his voice cracking.
'You damned imbecile!' Arthur, Kuroka, and Elaine glared at him.
"Bwahahahahaha!" Sun Quan bellowed in laughter.
He bent over, trying to control himself.
"Guys, don't be so nervous. I'm not going to hurt any of you. Look, just treat me like how you'd treat anybody else. Unless you commit a real crime, I've got no reason to do anything." He chuckled.
"Sorry. It's just, being in a new place and all and we don't want to start anything. Still, you didn't have to trouble yourself for us." Lefay sheepishly apologized.
Sun Quan ordered tea and food for everyone, encouraging everyone to eat and enjoy themselves.
"I couldn't let you all be bullied and bothered. Even if you weren't guests, I'd have done the same. I don't like that sort of treatment. I'm sorry you had to go through that. While it's relatively peaceful here, there're some troublemakers once in a while. Let me make it up to you. I'm going to be on vacation for a long while. Let me show you around formally. You're esteemed guests and we owe it to you to try and give you the best of times here. However, that reminds me, what brings you here to Kunlun?" Sun Quan asked.
"One of our friends is returning home to visit family and friends. His name is Mei Hou." Lefay said.
Sun Quan looked surprised for a bit.
"Then I'm even more stunned that those guys came to bother you. Sun Wukong's family is highly prevalent here, being just below the Jade Emperor and Empress in authority and within the Heavenly Court."
'We said don't mention Bikou!' Arthur and Kuroka looked at Lefay scoldingly.
'I'm sorry.' Lefay whimpered.
Issei protectively patted her on the head, returning a stern look.
'What on Earth are they all doing?' Sun Quan looked back and forth between the group.
"Sun Quan, you're here." A soft voice reached the table.
Walking up to them, was Lianshi.
"Hey, I was wondering if you were going to come and help." Sun Quan laughed.
"I knew you had it." Lianshi stated
"Everyone, this is Lianshi, my fiancée."
The group froze entirely.
'We're having tea and dim sum with, possibly, Bikou's greatest enemy.' They all thought at the same time.
'Yep…Romance of the Three Kingdoms. Where's Wei and Shu?' Issei groaned, feeling that trouble was coming.
And that ends this chapter. It's been a while since I've done a chapter that's this long. Regardless, I don't have anything to say, other than the usual thanks. I'm sure you're all tired of seeing the rambling I write, so I'll just end it here. I already said what I wanted to say at the beginning Author's Note.
