Chapter Text
A month had passed since the delegation of the Nan Hui Kingdom arrived in the Jibei Kingdom.
Emperor Xiao Shuyian had to go back to his kingdom which was expected. He could not be away for too long, although his oldest son, the Crown Prince of Nan Hui took his place.
He received word that there was a potential breach at their western gates. Emperor Duan Xiang told Emperor Shuyian if there was anything he needed, be it men to help strengthen their posts or minds to help create more ideas, he would be there to help.
Usually, when the Emperor left, his people would follow him. However, Shuyian did not want that and requested for his sixth son to stay in Jibei longer with his betrothed. It didn't seem as if Shuhe wanted to leave as yet either. In a case like this, since Shuyian had to go back to Nan Hui, he sent his oldest son, Xiao Shu Qian to be with Shuhe.
Duan Zi'Ang was not sure he liked the change.
In the space of the past month, he and Shuhe were able to spend more time together. Of course, Zi'Ang still had his duties where he had to train and attend royal court meetings. They did not have any follow-through threats so far as Nan Hui did but his presence was still vital in times like these.
When there was time -and his father made sure there was enough of that- he and Shuhe were able to take walks and visit various places in the city. They were still in the ‘getting to know each other’ phase but slowly and surely, the two would be reaching that point.
Though, Zi'Ang felt that with everything they did, Xiao Shu Qian was watching.
Whereas, with the Emperor of Nan Hui, if Zi'Ang wanted to take Shuhe out of the imperial palace's walls to show him the kingdom, it was fine. Both of their fathers only required they have guards with them. Shuhe's personal guard, Huo Ying, had to be present as well.
With Shu Qian, it was a different story.
And he was only in Jibei for nine days!
Zi'Ang, at this moment, wanted to take Shuhe to a place where he knew many people came to play instruments. It was presently the only place in Jibei where music of all sorts was played and someone who enjoyed music such as Shuhe would want to go.
He had told the Omega about it a few days ago and Shuhe was extremely excited. Zi'Ang already had the carriage prepared and already made space so nothing could ruin the day. Huo Ying was already alerted about the plan along with another guard. Everything was perfect.
Zi'Ang was also dressed for the occasion, the Alpha wearing dark blues robes and hair done in a tight ponytail, only a few strands out to frame his wonderful face.
When Zi'Ang saw Shuhe, he felt as if his breath was taken away from him. Spending time with Shuhe for the past month every single day was enough for him to gradually start to have feelings for the Omega and many other factors contributed to that.
Shuhe was quiet and sensible just as he was shameless. Thankfully, they still have more time to get to know each other more. Duan Zi'Ang just wanted to be sure this was not a fleeting moment and this was really what he wanted. They would still have to be married nevertheless but knowing where his heart lied was just as important.
He wasn't sure if Shuhe felt the same since the two of them never mentioned it between each other.
They didn't have to label it yet.
The Omega was dressed in white with accents of gold, his gold forehead chain present as well. His robes weren't the usual where they were heavily layered. Instead, he wore two at most. The typical feminine robes that Omegas wore.
Zi'Ang had never seen Shuhe dressed this way but whatever way the Omega was dressed, he was just as beautiful. Zi'Ang could not deny that fact.
The two were ready to go into the carriage when they heard a voice. When Zi'Ang turned around, the Alpha had to basically force himself not to roll his eyes. Shu Qian was there in all of his glory, the Crown Prince of Nan Hui having a stern look on his face as he gazed at the two.
“Ah, Gege,” Shuhe smiled, holding out his arms to give his brother a hug. Although embracing his younger brother, Shu Qian's eyes were on Zi'Ang and if the Nan Hui's prince had the ability to scorch him with his gaze, Zi'Ang would be burnt to a crisp.
“Where are you two headed?” Shu Qian asked. Zi'Ang guessed he should've said something but the Alpha was just so hard to approach.
Shuhe hummed, his smile never faltering. “Zi'Ang is taking me out to a musical gathering. It is said the best musicians will be there.”
Shu Qian blinked, immediate disapproval showing on his features as he muttered, “Is that so?”
Zi'Ang refused to speak. Why was this man so upset? The two of them were to be wedded and were given the chance to engage with one another before that step. This was benefitting for both kingdoms.
In his stead, Shuhe spoke, his smile now faltering. “Yes,” and realising the situation and his brother's unsatisfied face, he held Zi'Ang's arms in his. It felt like a comforting touch, as if Shuhe was reassuring him.
“Well, we will be going,” Shuhe murmured, pulling Zi'Ang along. Once the two of them were outside, the guards already present by the carriage, Zi'Ang did not miss how the Omega let out a sigh of relief.
They entered the carriage, Shuhe sticking to the Alpha. Even from his spot, Zi'Ang could see how the Omega peeked at him. He probably noticed his furrowed brows.
“Don't mind him, Zi'Ang,” Shuhe softly said as the carriage began to roll along. Only the two of them were inside. “He is just overprotective of me.”
Zi'Ang guessed he could understand to some extent. He had no Omega siblings but since they were described as fragile, one may be protective of them.
They still had to grow, however.
“Why so much though?” Zi'Ang asked through pouty lips. “He looks like he wants to kill me for being close to you. He knows we will be wedded, right?”
Shuhe laughed softly, drawing himself closer to Zi'Ang. Zi'Ang realised the Omega was doing this more often, a form of comfort found in skinship. He did not refuse the Omega.
“I have no martial arts so my brothers were reluctant to join this alliance. My father told them they could not keep me in Nan Hui forever. You would've thought that he would be the one reluctant to let me go.”
Zi'Ang blinked a few times. “I guess I understand.” He spoke softly. “Well, you're here now. So they have to put trust in Jibei that we can protect you.” Zi'Ang spoke with a firm voice. He wanted to say something else, in between minds if he should actually continue. In the end, the Alpha made the best decision he could yet as opposed to keeping his thoughts to himself.
“And I can too.”
Shuhe gazed up at him, the Omega automatically parting his lips in slight surprise. He was usually the one to push himself toward Zi'Ang, throwing flirty words or obvious signs that he may be interested despite the short meeting time span. Zi'Ang was practically the opposite though he did not ever disregard him.
So to hear his words now, Shuhe could not help but be surprised. A small smile formed on the Omega's lips and instead of saying anything, Shuhe rested his head back on the Alpha's shoulder, hands squeezing his arm gently.
He was comfortable, taking in the scent that was cocoa. He hadn't noticed that his vanilla aroma made a stronger appearance.
Zi'Ang noticed it.
He did not say anything.
Instead, he smiled.
—
Making it back to the imperial palace after a long day was more than relieving. However, Zi'Ang could not deny that the afternoon was well spent, a small smile on his face as the carriage rolled to a stop.
Shuhe was sleeping on his lap, the Omega's hair framing his soft features. Zi'Ang unconsciously ran a hand through those strands, sometimes touching Shuhe's face as he gazed at him. The Omega did not stir.
When the curtain was drawn back, the guard was about to speak. Zi'Ang quickly brought a finger to his lips to silence him, his eyes never leaving Shuhe and his hand still rubbing the Omega's head.
After a few moments, Zi'Ang realised that Shuhe was not going to wake up. So, the Alpha gently held up to carefully shift Shuhe, pulling him in his lap so he could cradle the Omega. Zi'Ang quietly asked the guard to keep the curtain open so he would be able to get out while holding Shuhe in his arms.
On his way out, Zi'Ang had to pause in his tracks when he noticed Shu Qian right in front of him. The Alpha gritted his teeth but said nothing. To be respectful, he nodded in acknowledgement to the Crown Prince of Nan Hui before making his way to where Shuhe was resting for his stay in Jibei.
Zi'Ang noticed Shu Qian following. When he made it to Shuhe's room, maids present by the door, Zi'Ang rested the Omega carefully on the bed. He took off his shoes all the while his soon-to-be brother-in-law was watching. Zi'Ang did not pay any attention to Shu Qian.
A soft smile was on the Alpha's face as he ran a hand down Shuhe's face. Even with Shu Qian watching like a hawk, Zi'Ang did what he usually did. Zi'Ang wasn't sure exactly what the Alpha was thinking at this moment, watching him like this. He wasn't going to do anything to Shuhe but he guessed Shu Qian watching wasn't a problem. After all, he was in Shuhe's safe space.
It could almost be called a nest.
After looking at the Omega for a bit longer, Zi'Ang took his leave. The maids by the doors closed them both carefully, mindful not to wake a sleeping Shuhe. Zi'Ang exited the room and looked Shu Qian in the eyes, waiting for his speech.
“May I have a word with the Second Prince?" Shu Qian asked. Zi'Ang tilted his head a bit but the Alpha did not once show fear. Shu Qian had to understand that Shuhe would be his mate whether he liked it or not. The two Emperors made an agreement that was sealed and no one could break it. Besides, he would not show fear to Shu Qian. If he wanted to prove to him that he could protect Shuhe, he had to remain strong both in mind and in physical appearance.
“Yes, you may,” answered Zi'Ang confidently. Shu Qian stared at him for longer than necessary, the Alpha huffing under his breath before he began to walk off. Zi'Ang did not show fright as he followed next to him, the two of them ending up roaming the imperial palace's walls.
It was quiet for some time. Zi'Ang refused to speak since Shu Qian wanted to speak first. The Alpha waited patiently.
When Shu Qian eventually began, Zi'Ang listened carefully.
“Shuhe has never shown any interest in anyone, let alone any Alpha,” the Crown Prince of Nan Hui spoke, his voice holding a tone of authority. Zi'Ang blinked a few times, but kept his lips tight together.
“When Father received the letter for an alliance, my other brothers assumed it was going to be one of us. No one expected for the Jibei Kingdom to ask for the Omega Prince of our nation.”
Shu Qian continued. “Shuhe does not have any martial arts but I believe you already know that. Duan Zi’Ang, understand that my brothers and I would do anything to protect our youngest brother, even if that means dying. Shuhe has a heart of gold and we know that when he falls in love, he will fall hard. I can already see it in such a short space of time.”
Duan Zi'Ang still remained quiet, allowing the Alpha to continue and Zi'Ang actually listened to his words despite the start they had. “This alliance is beneficial but Shuhe is more important. He will be here for a few more weeks and we hope that all goes well. Duan Zi'Ang, take care of our brother or it will not end how we both want it to.”
Zi'Ang thought about Shu Qian's words, taking everything he said into consideration. He knew it was mostly protectiveness over the sixth prince and he could understand that. He would do anything to protect his brothers also.
After a moment of silence, Zi'Ang parted his lips, ready to speak. He thought for a bit, closing his mouth again. When he knew what he wanted to say, the Alpha tried again.
“Xiao Shu Qian, your brother is an interesting one,” Zi'Ang spoke and for a second, he couldn't believe he was here having a normal conversation with Nan Hui's Crown Prince. The Alpha that was giving him dirty looks not too long ago was actually here with him, listening to what he had to say. Zi'Ang continued.
“Rest assured that Shuhe will be safe with Jibei. I may be young but already have the morals of my father. We were taught that one mate was enough and although I'm still getting to know Shuhe, it is not impossible to see him as such,” Zi'Ang paused, the words having a certain taste in his mouth. He smiled unknowingly.
“If I was not interested, it would be easy to tell. Xiao Shu Qian, do not worry. I will do my best to protect him and Jibei will too.”
Xiao Shu Qian looked at Zi'Ang, the Alpha searching the latter's face to find any bit of truth in his words. After a long while, Shu Qian probably smiled for the first time to Duan Zi'Ang. It did not reach his eyes but for Zi'Ang, that was enough.
“Alright, Duan Zi'Ang. We will leave the rest to you.”
—
Zi'Ang took a deep breath as he relaxed in the bath, his mind replaying events of the day.
Beside the conversation with Xiao Shu Qian, Zi'Ang thought to himself that the day went well. Even after that conversation, Zi'Ang believed the day went well too. He understood Shu Qian's concerns. He and Shuhe were surely getting there, after spending so much time together. No one made any confession but Zi'Ang guessed that time would be soon.
A smile unconsciously formed on his face as he thought about his Omega to be. Shuhe clinged to him as they walked through the city streets, practically pointing at everything that caught his attention. The two of them had to wear cloaks to block their faces but nevertheless, it was a good day.
When he caught himself, he cleared his throat although no one was in the room. He could only imagine the smirk his older brother would be sporting if he ever found him subconsciously thinking about Shuhe.
Zi'Ang rested his head back on the rim of the basin, his long hair splayed over the tub. He didn't wash it this time though he believed he should. He didn't want to go through the trouble of drying it at the moment. The events of the day were catching up to him in the form of sleep.
Zi'Ang was so caught in his tiredness that he did not notice the opening of the doors. Even so, he had retired for the night so he was not expecting anyone in his room. Especially not his bathroom.
When he heard the soft gasp, the Alpha jumped. He didn't attempt to hide himself though he was already submerged in the water. Shuhe, on the other hand, who saw him in the bath, attempted to leave the room, only to bump his head on the frame and drop the tray he was carrying in his hand.
“Sorry, sorry,” the Omega spoke, well, more like he muttered the words under his breath. Duan Zi'Ang heard it clearly.
Zi'Ang wondered for a second why and how Shuhe even got to his room. His and Shuhe's rooms were guarded against each other to prevent any mishaps. After all, they were an Alpha and Omega pair in the process of courting and marriage. Anything could happen.
There were heats and ruts and to prevent any premature mating, the two were kept separated in cases like this. So, this was all a bit confusing.
Zi'Ang didn't have any time to think about that, however. The Alpha hopped out of the basin to go and check on Shuhe.
Dripping wet and water loudly hitting the floor, Zi'Ang walked the short distance to help the Omega who was holding his head, not once paying attention to his nude figure.
“Shuhe, are you alright?” He was genuinely concerned. Shuhe, who had his eyes closed, nodded. He too did not think about anything, not until he opened his eyes and let out another soft gasp as he did when he first entered the room.
Shuhe wanted to pull away and run far. Zi'Ang had a tight grip on him, however. Not to scare him but more in concern at the hit he received on his head.
“Zi'Ang,” Shuhe's voice trembled, the Omega not once looking down as they both stood from the floor. The little snacks that were on the tray were left forgotten.
Zi'Ang only noticed what Shuhe was talking about, water dropping from his body in the form of large drops, soaking the floor beneath them both. In most cases, Zi'Ang would instantly cover himself to hide from whoever, even the maids.
Now though, Zi'Ang's mind was thinking of the exact opposite.
The Alpha smiled, one that was quickly forming into a smirk. He let go of Shuhe's hands that he was holding and with one step forward, Shuhe took one step back. Zi'Ang took another step forward and Shuhe followed suit, taking another step back until he reached the wall, his back touching it.
Zi'Ang was a complete contrast to how he was a few seconds ago. Shuhe was not hurt so concerned behaviour quickly turned into that of a teasing one when he saw the blush coating Shuhe's cheeks. Whether it was from the heat in the room or the actions now occurring, Zi'Ang did not know.
“What Shuhe?” Zi'Ang's voice was small until it sounded nonexistent. Shuhe heard him loudly, even though his heart was beating in his ears. His eyes were rapidly searching his potential Alpha's eyes, constantly shifting from left to right.
Zi'Ang remembered all of the times Shuhe teased him that he wondered if the Omega ever felt shame. Now, he had him exactly where he wanted him and Zi'Ang could not hide that desire to make Shuhe just as flustered as he often made him.
Shuhe tried to look everywhere except for down below. The Omega's eyes searched Zi'Ang's face and even his neck where that large scent gland lay. Shuhe gulped, watching the water sliding down the Alpha's neck and down to his collar bone. His body immediately slicked due to no command of his.
If Zi'Ang could smell it, he made no obvious reaction.
“So you can tease me and I cannot tease you?” Zi'Ang continued, his voice silky smooth as he brought a hand next to Shuhe's head, purposely putting his body in a viewing position for Shuhe's eyes.
This time, Duan Zi'Ang held no shame.
He almost wanted Shuhe to look down but the Omega was not budging.
This was dangerous. An Alpha and Omega pair, even with one naked and the other fully clothed was still a problem. Arousal was clear in the room and the strong scent of vanilla was clouding Zi'Ang's judgment. His cocoa scent followed suit.
He leaned forward, nose pressing against Shuhe's scent gland as he sighed softly. From the moment his nose touched Shuhe's neck, the Omega whimpered. It was music to Zi'Ang's ears.
This was dangerous, even more so when Zi'Ang stuck out his tongue to trace Shuhe's ear. He felt the shiver that wracked through the Omega. Zi'Ang smugly grinned.
It was only when Shuhe's slick became stronger that Zi'Ang instantly snapped out of his thoughts. He would've liked to take this further; every fiber of his body knew he wanted to but rationality took over.
He looked at Shuhe, shock written all over his face. For their bodies to react in such a way meant they both felt something for each other. It was a relief as much as it was scary.
Zi'Ang did not have time to think about anything more as Shuhe looked at him for a bit longer before he scrambled out of the room. The tray with the sweets was left forgotten.
Zi'Ang himself did not want to look down, embarrassed at the feeling coursing through him. For a moment though, he couldn't help but smile softly to himself.
He wondered what the day would hold for them tomorrow.