Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

"What's a dad?" 

Chung Gong choked. He had been tasked with ensuring Chung Myung stayed in the cave of penance; after all, the little rascal was notorious for skipping punishments. 

Chung Myung was also never quiet, most of the time throwing tantrums. By now, he should have been doing just that—not asking questions.

When Chung Myung wanted answers, he always went to Chung Mun. For him to ask someone else, this must have been really bothering him.

Either way, it took him by surprise. Chung Gong sighed. Guess that violent brat was still a child after all. And he wasn't good with children.

He took a few moments to think about his approach. In the end, he decided to give a direct answer and be done with it.

 "So… two people are needed to make a child, right? To put it simply, a dad is the male parent."

Chung Gong scratched the back of his head, unsure of his explanation. Chung Myung is still young so he might not even know where babies come from, but he doesn't think he's the right person to give him the talk. 

And certainly not when there's a boulder between the two of them.

It grew quiet for a few moments before Chung Myung’s hesitant voice broke the silence. 

"Do I have a dad?"

"Huh? Everyone has a da—" Shoot. Chung Gong quickly slapped his own mouth. He had completely forgotten that Chung Myung was an orphan. 

As if things weren’t awkward enough already. He knew nothing about kids! And every interaction with Chung Myung usually ended with him getting beaten up!

Isn't that why he's in the cave again? Beating up his sahyungs? He might have fucked up, he had been quiet for too long.

“Ah… well… a dad is also the… uh… the person who cares for you! Yeah, uh.” 

Sweat dripped down Chung Gong’s back as he continued rambling.

“He protects and disciplines you—uh, like a teacher… uh?”

Wait. That didn’t sound right, did it?

He got no reply back. Dread churned in his belly at the highly unusual silence from Chung Myung. Although his teacher in name was Baek Oh, in practice Chung Mun did everything. Oh. Uh.

"Tell you what, I'll let you out early so you can go and ask Chung Mun sahyung, alright?" Chung Gong offered as he opened the cave for Chung Myung.

Chung Myung’s small figure emerged, looking spaced out. As he trotted away, Chung Gong couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt. 

'I'm sorry sahyung, I'll treat you later.' 

Chung Mun was packing for his trip when he heard the door open, followed by the sound of tiny footsteps.

"Myeong-ah?"

A few strands of hair peeked out from behind the door, with pink eyes staring at him curiously.

"Why are you here so early?"

"I was let out early."

Chung Mun hummed skeptically. "You didn't threaten your sahyung again, right?"

Chung Myung shook his head.

"Really?"

"Really."

Still, Chung Mun eyed him with suspicion. When Chung Myung pouted, he couldn't hold back his laughter. "Alright, alright, I believe you."

He turned back to his work, but Chung Myung interrupted him by grabbing his clothes. "Sigh, Myeong-ah we'll play late-"

"Dad?"

"Eh?"

"Dad."

Chung Mun's face flushed red in embarrassment. "I'm not your dad– where'd you get that idea?" Did one of his martial brothers play a prank on him using Chung Myung? If he gets his hands on the responsible one…

"Not dad?" Chung Myung quietly asked.

Something felt wrong about Chung Myung's tone. Chung Mun wasn't sure what.

"Do I look that old? How could I be your dad?" Chung Mun flicked Chung Myung's forehead playfully.

"But sahyung, you are old!" Chung Myung rebutted, clutching his forehead.

"No, but this goblin!" Chung Mun stretched out to grab him, but Chung Myung backed out of reach.

"Grandpa is getting slow!" Chung Myung's giggle quickly changed to a yelp as he dodged a pillow before Chung Mun pounced on him, pinning him to the floor.

Chung Myung's eyes widened when he realized the other's intentions "No! Sahyung-" he burst into giggles as Chung Mun assaulted him with tickles.

"Who did you say was old?" Chung Mun paused, letting Chung Myung breathe.

"Sahyung, I did hear that old people have trouble hearing, but-" Chung Myung was interrupted again by another tickle attack. 

"I-I meant Baek Hak!"  Chung Myung managed to say between fits of laughter. "Baek Hak is old."

Finally, Chung Mun stopped "He is old," he agreed. "But he's also considered the youngest of the Baek generation you know?"

"When sahyung grows up, you'll be the oldest of our generation!" Chung Myung pointed out.

Chung Mun shook his head in disbelief, but he couldn't deny his words. "Rascal."

As they lay on the floor catching their breath, Chung Mun’s expression turned more serious. "Will you truly be alright alone?"

"Huh?"

"Did you already forget? I'm going home to my grandmother for the Mid-Autumn Festival."

"Oh…" Chung Myung’s expression fell.

"Don't worry, I'll bring you some mooncakes." 

"Hmph, I'm all grown up, I can take care of myself!" Chung Myung tried to sound mature. "Still, I'll accept the mooncakes."

"Try to stay out of trouble and I'll bring you lots, alright?" Chung Mun ruffled Chung Myung’s hair with a smile.

"Just…come back quickly." Chung Myung mumbled shyly.

"I will."

Chung Mun promised, smiling fondly as he caressed Chung Myung’s head.

Chung Mun woke up slowly, feeling both confused and content. Why was he on the floor–Ah, he must have fallen asleep while playing with Chung Myung. He glanced worriedly at his sajil, checking to make sure he didn't get sick from sleeping on the floor.

Chung Myung was blissfully cuddled against his side, deeply asleep. Feeling his skin, Chung Mun let out a relieved breath before carefully lifting his baby martial brother and placing him in bed. A few rays of sunlight blinded him momentarily, so he pulled the curtain shut to ensure it wouldn’t disturb Chung Myung.

Wait.

It was already morning! He didn't finish packing! 

Swiftly, Chung Mun threw the rest of his clothes into his bag, not even bothering to change as he rushed out to catch up with the others.

"Ay, great sahyung, why are you so late?" Chung Hwa asked impatiently, waiting for him.

"Sorry, I overslept," Chung Mun apologized, catching his breath.

Chung Gong, wearing a guilty expression, patted Chung Mun’s back. "I'll treat you later, let's go."

Chung Mun narrowed his eyes suspiciously. "What did you do?"

"Ah, the cart is going to leave, we should hurry!" Chung Gong excused himself.

"Chung Gong!" Chung Mun ran after him.

"We're not taking a cart tho…Ah, wait for me!" Chung Hwa called out, looking bewildered as he followed.

Chung Myung woke up alone. Groggily, he pushed aside the curtain. The sun was still not fully up, so it was still early morning. With a yawn, he got up and began his morning routine.

He was washing his teeth when a frown crossed his face. It was unusually silent. Did his sahyung already leave for training? Shrugging it off, he washed his face and hurried off to join his sajils’ morning training.

Some of them flinched as he got in row. Weird. He's sure he hadn't hit one of his sajils for over a week.

The moment they finished, he quickly disappeared to his sahyungs' area.

"Ah, Chung Myung, are you looking for Chung Mun?" Baek Hak happened to pass by.

Chung Myung nodded and did a casual bow. "Sasuk," just in case Chung Mun was watching. He'll get scolded again if he doesn't greet his sasuks.

"He left for his hometown, didn't he tell you…?" Baek Hak flinched at Chung Myung's darkening expression.

Ah. He did. But Chung Myung didn't know he'd leave so early. That guy! He could've at least say goodbye. With a sour expression, he passed by his sahyungs, who backed out of his way.

The night was oddly cold.

Bored.

He was incredibly bored.

In a moment of inspiration, he dashed to the forest for some extra training. He imagined his sahyung coming back and praising him for being such a model disciple. By day three, his interest dropped. 

Most disciples also steered out of his way. There seemed to be a dark fog following him, naturally repelling others. Of course, there were a few who didn’t get the hint.

"Aaah, I should've gone back home" 

"Your hometown is in Anhui, right?"

"Ah, that's far, isn't it?"

Four disciples chattered happily about their hometowns.

"How's Anhui like?"

“It’s pretty good. The festivals last a day longer compared to other cities.”

"Good? What's so good about a hometown?"

"Uh—Chung Myung!?"

"Ack!"

Needless to say, they got beaten.

"Baek Oh, do something about your disciple!" Even the elders couldn't stand it any longer.

"What can I even do about that crazy child….?" Baek Oh replied, exasperated.

For the first time, everyone's wishes aligned with Chung Myung's.

Chung Mun, come back faster. Please!!!

"We should just kick him out; that brat is nothing but trouble!" One elder complained.

"What you crazy bastard?!"

"Uh?"

"What if Wudang takes him? Or worse, Zhongnan!"

"That's true…"

An idea struck Baek Oh, and he turned to the sect leader. "If I may…"

"Anything, just calm that bastard down!" The sect leader gave up.

Something gnawed at Chung Myung ever since the day before he got sent to the cave of penance.

"Bastard, do you even know who my dad is?" a sajil yelled at him.

"Dad? Daaaad? I'll show you dad!" Chung Myung struck him with a wooden sword.

"Ack!" the disciple covered his head, but his mouth kept running "Bet you don't even know what that is anyways. Who would even want you?"

He ended up in the medical hall.

"Myeong-ah?" Baek Oh lulled with a sweet voice. "Hik!"

Chung Myun's neck snapped towards him.

"Tsk, what?"

Did you just tsk at me? and what what? I'm your master you bastard. 

Baek Oh didn't dare utter his thoughts.

"Myeong-ah, you know there's a festival outside and…" No, why is that guy griping his sword? Chung Myung, I'm your master?  

"I've spoken with the sect leader and he agreed to let you go!" Baek Oh quickly added.

"Go down?"

"Yes."

"Me?"

"Yes?"

Chung Myung stared at Baek Oh's pleading face. Well, he was bored either way.

"Alright."

"It's crucial for disciples to get acquainted with the outside world from a young age and-uh?"

"I said I'll go."

Baek Oh nearly cried from happiness as he handed Chung Myung a bag of gold "Have fun and don't come back for the whole day, alright?"

The news spread like wildfire, and by the time Chung Myung reached the gate, more of his martial brothers had given him pocket money and bid him a good trip.

Sahyung, you keep telling me I'm crazy, but have you seen this sect?

The festival was indeed more fun than staying in the sect and training the whole day.

There was a lot of food. And people. So many people.

It annoyed Chung Myung a bit, but he managed to stay calm. 'See, sahyung? I can stay out of trouble.'

The whole atmosphere was exceptionally lively.

Yet Chung Myung felt lonely.

The night slowly stretched out.

"Dad!" A cheerful voice stopped Chung Myung in his tracks.

A small girl gleefully jumped on a man's back "Up, up!"

"Don't jump like that Ao-ya!" The man said, laughing as he lifted her onto his shoulders.

Chung Myung didn't get it. Chung Mun also gave him a shoulder ride.

"a dad is also the…uh…the person who cares for you!"

He walked away.

"I told you not to run, you got hurt!" A brat was getting reprimanded by his father.

Chung Mun also scolded him.

"he protects and disciplines you–"

"Dad, dad, can I have some mooncakes please?" another child tugged at his father’s sleeve.

"Ning-ah, you’ve already had too many sweets today. Your mom’s going to kill me!" his father joked.

Chung Mun also gave him mooncakes.

"I'm not your dad–"

"There, there…" A child was crying. Her father was there to calm her down.

Chung Mun also comforted him.

"How could I be your dad?"

"Who would even want you?"

Chung Myung stumbled.

Breathing heavily, he got up with a wince. He doesn't remember running.

Thankfully, his feet carried him to the foot of Mount Hua. He got tired of the festival anyway. He'll just return home to…

no one.

There was no one waiting for him.

For some reason, the path to Mount Hua was longer than usual.

His vision was all foggy by the time he reached the gate.

"Myung-ah, is that you?"

Chung Myung's breath hitched.

Chung Mun rushed to his side, worry fully evident even in the shadows of the night.

"Thanks tao…I was about to go search for you, you crazy brat! Do you even know what time it is?!"

"You're back early." Chung Myung's lips trembled slightly. 

"Yeah... I told my grandmother about you, and she, uh, might have... beaten me a little?" Chung Mun's face twisted with regret. "After that, she threw me out..."

Sighing deeply, Chung Mun apologized, "I'm sorry I can't be your dad."

Chung Myung stopped breathing for a moment.

Chung Mun gripped his shoulders and looked at him firmly. "But I promise to be your family."

The clouds shifted, allowing a sliver of moonlight to bathe them in its gentle glow.

Chung Mun's eyes widened. "You were crying? What happened? Did you get injured somewhere?" He inspected Chung Myung frantically.

Chung Myung hiccuped.

"You want me?"

Chung Mun didn't hesitate for a second. 

"Always."

Tears streamed down Chung Myung's face as the flood of emotions he had been holding back for days finally broke free. Cheon Mun wrapped him in a tight embrace, holding him as if he would never let go. 

"Let's go home," Chung Mun whispered, his voice full of warmth and unwavering assurance.

Chapter Text

Chung Mun couldn’t quite figure out if his sajaes got along or not. No matter how you look at it, they fought every day, but by night they would shake hands and share jokes as if they were old friends.

If someone had told him a year ago that there would be someone who not only kept up with Chung Myung’s antics but also got along with him, he would have laughed and called them crazy.

Yet here he was.

“Sajae, how come you’re so weak that you can’t even hold your chopsticks properly?” Chung Myung huffed, stuffing another dumpling into his mouth.

"Huh? Whose fault is that, you sahyung bastard?" Chung Jin retorted, flinched in pain. He was beaten black and blue.

“You’re the one who challenged me!” Chung Myung rebutted, his mouth full of dumplings.

“Chung Myung, he asked for a spar, but how could you beat him up like that?” Chung Mun intervened, his tone stern. “And you, Chung Jin, why do you insist on asking for a beating every morning?”

"It's the way of a true man!" Chung Jin replied proudly.

'What? Getting your ass whooped every day by this goblin?' Chung Mun was speechless, letting out a sigh.

Forget it. Baek Oh had already given up, realizing that his third disciple was almost as crazy as the other two. Huh? Him? Yeah, Chung Mun is certainly more Taoist than the other two, but everyone knows he just pretends to listen to Baek Oh.

But what could he do? After being betrayed like that, he had to take full care of Chung Myung and now Chung Jin as well. He was so young yet already raising two brats.

Chung Jin swore as he winced in pain once more, causing Chung Myung to frown.

"Do you need medicine?"

Chung Mun choked. Was that genuine concern he heard in Chung Myung’s voice?

“It will pass by tomorrow,” Chung Jin refused nonchalantly, getting up to wash his dishes. But Chung Myung stopped him.

“I’ll do them today. I’m a great and benevolent sahyung after all,” Chung Myung declared, shooing Chung Jin away.

'Benevolent my ass!'  Chung Mun wanted to complain. He couldn't deny that he was shocked and impressed that Chung Myung could show concern for another being. Maybe…

“Myeong-ah, can we talk after you’re done?” Chung Mun asked once Chung Jin was out of earshot.

"Sure…" Chung Myung replied hesitantly. Has he done anything bad recently?

Chung Myung followed Chung Mun to his room, feeling a growing sense of apprehension. There was some sort of tension radiating from both of them.

How serious must this conversation be if–oh no, why were there mooncakes and alcohol on the table?

Fear gripped Chung Myung's chest. Surely they weren't kicking him out, right??

"Sit down." Chung Mun said with a serious face.

Chung Myung immediately dropped on his knees, gulping nervously. Unbeknownst to him, Chung Mun was experiencing a similar anxiety level, if not worse.

‘I got this!’ Chung Mun thought, trying to bolster his confidence. ‘I’ve prepared for this moment for weeks.’ He took a deep breath.

"Ch-Chung Myung," fuck, he stuttered.

"Y-yes?" Chung Myung braced himself mentally, the next words caught him off guard regardless.

"What do you think about Chung Jin?"

“Huh?” Chung Myung stared, dumbfounded. His tension dissipated almost instantly.

On the other side, Chung Mun started sweating nervously at Chung Myung’s lack of reply.

Chung Myung pondered on the question, unsure as to where this was leading. He hummed thoughtfully as he reached for a mooncake, causing Chung Mun to flinch.

“Chung Jin… Chung Jin, you say?” Chung Myung munched on the mooncake. “Chung Jin sajae?”

'Who else, you bastard?' Chung Mun wanted to shout, but he couldn't afford to aggravate Chung Myung right now.

“Weak,” Chung Myung complained. “And stupid. I thought he was deaf, you know? I kept telling him where I’d hit, and he couldn’t block even one!”

“Our sasuks struggle to keep up with you. How could someone with less than a year of training be able to?”

“He also has a bad personality—”

Chung Mun stopped listening. Maybe it was too early to bring it up after all. He stared at his sajae, who was still bad-mouthing Chung Jin. 

Lost in thought, he almost missed Chung Myung’s mumbling.

“…overall, he’s not that bad and—”

“What?” Chung Mun’s eyes widened. Not that bad? From this bandit-like goblin? When had he ever heard Chung Myung say something like that about anyone? And what’s with those red ears?

Fuck it. It was now or never.

"I'm thinking of asking Chung Jin if he wants to join our family."

"Sure."

"Since he left his family and–uh, huh?" Chung Mun watched in disbelief as Chung Myung shrugged his shoulders.

He honestly expected his sajae to start spewing fire, calling it nonsense or putting up some kind of resistance. Heck, he even braced for jealousy. But Chung Myung just accepted it?

“He’s already my cute sajae. Once he becomes my little brother too, he’ll have to listen to everything I say.” Chung Myung grinned devilishly.

“Brat, he’s older than you.” Chung Mun laughed tiredly. It seemed silly how much he had stressed over this.

“Let’s go tomorrow together and ask him, alright?” Chung Mun extended his arm to grab a mooncake, but was stopped by Chung Myung, who swiftly took the plate away.

“Fine, but this is my bribe snack.” Chung Myung puffed out his chest. “But since sahyung is my favorite, I’ll allow you a bite.”

Ah, that's right. This was why he was stressing so much. This bastard is at fault!

Chung Myung filled both their cups with wine and lifted his own.

Chung Mun looked at him with a fond smile and nagged playfully.

"If Baek Oh sabom finds out about this, we'll both spend the weekend in the cave on penance." Chung Mun clinked his cup against Chung Myung’s. "So keep your tongue tied."

"Of course." Chung Myung grinned and downed the wine.

Grandmother,

You will not believe this!

Chung Myung, that brat agreed to let someone else in our family! Chung Myung did!

It's about Chung Jin, the other brat I've told you about. We went the other day to ask him and you know what he said?

“What kind of business are we conducting?” He thought a family was merely for diplomatic or profit matters. Chung Myung then interfered and said that family means living with me.

My god, did nobody teach these kids about family? Ah, no. Chung Myung is an orphan, that is my mistake. But Chung Jin had a family…of officials, right.

I've tried explaining it but they still couldn't understand. But don't worry, I've got a plan!

If words can't explain it, then I will show them how a family is supposed to be, like you taught me.

Anyway, I will bring them both with me next time I come to visit. You must have missed Chung Myung and I'm excited to finally introduce Chung Jin to you!

Stay healthy and don't overwork yourself.

Also, we might have to prepare a feast this time, they both eat well.

Your dear nephew, 

Chung Mun.

"Chung Myung, raise your arms properly." Chung Mun said as he folded the letter.

"I already said I'm sorry!" Chung Myung whined.

"Bastard, if you hit somebody then apologize, it's all good? Then what are wars for?" Chung Mun shook his head.

Chung Myung sighed and adjusted his stance, mumbling under his breath.

Chung Jin, who had learned to stay quiet during sahyung's lectures, couldn’t help but agree with Chung Myung this time. His hands were growing tired as well.

Chung Mun let out a deep sigh, his eyes drifting to the window where the plum blossoms swirling gracefully to the ground. It was already autumn. He now had two infuriating little brothers, but he loves them, and he knows. They love him too.

"Jin-ah, your hands are a bit too low."

"Tsk."

Chapter Text

"♫ ~ Yellow Wind Ridge, a mighty ole' range, once buzzin' with joy and glee ~ ♫"

"Sahyung."

"♫ ~ But the pesky rats took hold, a sudden unfold, turned it all barren and bleak ~ ♫"

"Sahyung!"

"Hm?" Chung Myung finally turned his attention to Chung Jin, continuing to hum the song joyfully.

"Are we there yet?" Chung Jin whined with his shoulders slumped.

"Tired already?" Chung Myung gave him an incredulous look. Still, he turned around and grabbed Chung Jin's bags.

"Ah— I can carry them!" Chung Jin protested, reaching out to take them back.

"And if you drop them? We'll have to do another trip for groceries." Chung Myung shot back, already walking ahead with a huff.

"I won't!" Chung Jin hurried his steps to keep up with Chung Myung.

"This weakling dares to yell at his sahyung? Who taught him manners? Who?" Chung Myung clicked his tongue. 

Chung Jin pinched his eyes and stuck his tongue. In doing so, he failed to notice that Chung Myung stopped and crashed straight into his back.

"Urgh," Chung Jin grunted, rubbing his nose as he met Chung Myung’s unfazed gaze. Chung Myung stood there, seemingly unaffected, as if only a breeze had touched him.

"We're here." Chung Myung stated, trying horribly to hold his laughter. "Wimp."

"Wimp?! You—" 

"Why are you two arguing again?" Chung Mun suddenly appeared out of nowhere.

"Gah! Don't start nagging, we're getting along." Chung Myung elbowed his sajae.

"Y-yeah!" Chung Jin quickly chimed in, eager to avoid a lecture.

Chung Mun eyed them with suspicion but decided it wasn’t worth the hassle, especially since Chung Myung had already slipped past him and dashed into the house.

"Come on in," Chung Mun sighed, inviting Chung Jin, who obediently followed behind like a baby duck.

Chung Jin thought he had seen every unbelievable thing in Mount Hua in the past 3 years. Turns out he was wrong.

Though old, the house was in remarkably good shape. The interior was plain, typical of what he’d grown used to after joining a Taoist sect. Dried herbs hung from the beams, filling the air with an earthy scent. He didn't dislike it.

But that wasn’t what left him agape. In all his time at Mount Hua, Chung Jin had never seen Chung Myung proactively help anyone.

In fact, his sahyung was the brattiest person he knew—sleeping like a cat whenever and wherever he pleased, drinking alcohol, skipping practice, causing trouble, running from trouble, being loud and so much more. 

And now, here he was—productive. Running left and right, helping an old woman sort the groceries they’d brought.

“Chung Jin, this is my grandmother,” Chung Mun said, gesturing toward the old woman. “And since you’re family, call her Grandma too.”

Chung Jin took a bold step and politely bowed as he presented himself.

“Mount Hua Sect’s third-class disciple, Chung Jin, greets the esteemed elder.”

Thwack!

“Ack!” Chung Jin recoiled, eyes wide in shock.

"Elder? Eldeeerr? I'm still young, you brat!" the old woman fussed.

'Young my ass, you look like you died yesterday!' Chung Mun didn't dare voice his thoughts in fear of getting hit.

Thwack!

"Wha—why!?!" Chung Mun yelped.

“Isn’t he your little brother? It’s your job to teach him proper etiquette,” his grandmother scolded.

"Haah? But what he said was tru—oww!" Chung Mun groaned as his grandmother pulled his ear.

“Is that how you speak to your elder?”

'Young or old, just pick a side already, please!!' Chung Mun cried internally, and Chung Jin could empathize.

Behind their grandmother, Chung Myung was snickering. 

'That bastard!' both brothers thought in perfect unison.

"Halmi*, is the food ready yet?" Chung Myung finally decided to spare them.

"My, my, you two must be starving, come eat, come, come." Grandma waved her hand invitingly.

The table was packed with a feast of meat, and Chung Jin watched in awe as Chung Myung devoured his food with astonishing speed. He turned a questioning gaze to his other sahyung, who had already started eating as well.

"Why aren't you eating?" Grandma reprimanded.

"This…" Chung Jin struggled to articulate his concern, luckily Chung Mun understood.

"Mount Hua doesn't forbid eating meat," Chung Mun explained calmly.

"But it's discouraged," Chung Jin added.

"Right."

Hearing their exchange, Grandma started clicking her tongue.

"This is why these kids look so scrawny. If you're human you should eat meat, meat!"

Chung Myung nodded in approval, his cheeks stuffed with food.

"But we're Taoists," Chung Jin countered.

"Aren't Taoists also human?" Grandma threw some meat in Chung Jin's bowl. "Just eat and put some fat on those bones."

Chung Jin gave up arguing, besides, she had a point. Surely eating some in moderation wouldn't be bad.

After one bite, Chung Jin froze for a moment, then eagerly began devouring the food in front of him, asking for seconds almost immediately. Perhaps because he hadn’t eaten meat in years, it tasted divine.

Grandma started laughing and patted Chung Mun's arm. "See? I told you, you starved these boys on that mountain."

Chung Mun said nothing back.

When his sahyungs suddenly told him to prepare for a trip, Chung Jin wasn’t expecting to be adopted by an old woman—Grandchungmun, as Chung Myung had humorously described her.

Chung Jin noticed immediately the similarities in mannerisms and speech she and Chung Mun shared, and inevitably, Chung Myung.

But why did that goblin child only take the bad traits?

"Sajae, how feeble must you be that you can't even do something so simple?" Chung Myung taunted.

Frustrated, Chung Jin tried again to push the spade into the ground, but his efforts proved ineffectual.

It took Chung Myung an agonizingly long time to finally take pity on Chung Jin and show him how it’s done.

"You're supposed to push with your foot, like this." Chung Myung demonstrated with his own spade.

"Why didn't you tell me earlier?"

"How can I laugh so good otherwise?"

"..."

“Y-you!” Chung Jin yelled, swinging his spade at Chung Myung, who easily parried with his own. Sparks seemed to fly as their gazes locked in combat. The fight was on.

They both ended up on the receiving end of Chung Mun's strike. 

“You were supposed to work the field! Why are you two fighting again?”

Chung Jin and Chung Mun knelt with their hands raised. Their clothes disheveled and dirty after brawling in the mud.

“It was a matter of pride,” Chung Jin defended.

A vein bulged on Chung Mun’s forehead as he launched into a lecture, leaving their ears bleeding by the end.

Chung Mun joined them in working the field after.

It wasn't until Chung Jin slumped down that Chung Mun noticed the setting sun.

“I didn’t realize it was this late. Sorry,” Chung Mun said apologetically as he glanced at Chung Jin. “You okay?”

“Just tired,” Chung Jin waved him off. “It works well as training too.”

Chung Mun smiled as he helped him up. “Let’s go wash up.”

Chung Jin looked around for his other brother but found nothing.

"Did sahyung run from work as well?"

Surprisingly, Chung Mun shook his head. 

"He likely finished his part earlier and went back. This is the only thing I've never seen him skip."

As they approached the house, a blend of old and young laughter echoed through the hallways. 

Used to it, Chung Mun walked away, but Chung Jin took a curious peek.

Grandma sat comfortably in her chair, a warm smile gracing her face as she shared a drink with Chung Myung. Each sip was accompanied by stories that Chung Jin could not follow.

"They do this whenever we visit." Chung Mun explained.

It sounded like a good relationship, but Chung Jin had his concerns.

"The goblin aside, is it ok for your grandmother to drink at her age?"

"You're right," Chung Mun's eyes softened, "but…"

His gaze seemed to drift far away for a moment before settling back on Chung Jin.

"They're both lonely."

Despite not fully understanding, Chung Jun nodded. It made sense for his grandmother to get lonely in an empty house, but Chung Myung?

"He has us," Chung Jin said, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world.

Chung Mun looked stupefied for a moment, but it quickly changed to a grin. He slung an arm around Chung Jin's neck and playfully dragged him toward the washroom.

"This little brat, you're right again, yet you said something so wrong." Chung Mun let him go and ruffled his hair. "It's our grandmother. Us three."

Chung Jin blushed and nodded shyly.

"Come here," Chung Mun gestured toward a stool. "I'll wash your back."

"I'm supposed to be the one washing your back," Chung Jin protested lightly.

"I said I'll do it." Chung Mun tapped the stool firmly. "Listen to your big brother."

"Both you and Chung Myung I swear…" Chung Jin mumbled and sat down, allowing Chung Mun to wash his back. 

No matter what the debate was, any logical argument always seemed to crumble against his sahyungs'. He just can't seem to win these.

Once Chung Mun finished, they switched places. Now it was Chung Jin, absentmindedly washing his older brother's back.

"What's on your mind?" Chung Mun peered curiously. "You've been awfully quiet."

"I was thinking about Chung Myung."

"Oh?"

"It's just… I realized I don't know much, about him I mean."

"Still haven't gotten used to him?"

"That's not it, I'm just curious."

"Want me to tell you more about your younger-older brother?" Chung Mun teased, meeting Chung Jin's eyes.

There was a bright sparkle of eagerness in that gaze.

"I do."

And who could blame him? When there is such a unique individual, how can one not wonder?

Chung Mun gave into that gaze. He began reminiscing the time they first found Chung Myung, a newborn baby abandoned at their gate, about his first blossoms the moment he touched a sword, his quirks, and all the little things that others might find trivial.

For Chung Mun, they were precious memories.

Memories he'd love to continue with Chung Jin in them.

Their conversation stretched late into the night, even after they'd gone to bed. A particular deep yawn indicated just how late it was, and Chung Mun noticed the way Chung Jin struggled to keep his eyes open.

He chuckled softly. It wasn't a surprise that he'd be tired. They worked the whole day.

Quietly, Chung Mun gently draped a blanket over Chung Jin, wrapping it snugly around him as he guided the younger one down on the bed.

After a few half-hearted protests at the childish treatment, Chung Jin soon drifted off into a peaceful slumber.

Chung Mun stretched, rubbing his tired eyes as his feet carried him toward his grandmother’s room. 

The candle was nearly burnt out, casting a faint flicker that barely reached the walls.

Even so, Chung Mun could make out his grandmother's outline as she sat upright, her hand gently stroking Chung Myung's head as he slept peacefully on her lap.

"He's a good kid," Grandma said softly, her fingers moving through Chung Myung's hair.

"Hm? Yeah, Myeon-ah's a bit rough around the edges though," Chung Mun mumbled, his exhaustion seeping into his voice.

"I meant Chung Jin," Grandma huffed. "The walls are quite thin."

It took Chung Mun an embarrassingly long moment for the words to sink in.

"You heard all that…?" He stammered, covering his reddening face with his hands.

It wasn't bad that his grandmother overheard. He already told her everything in his letters. What got him all self-conscious was that the imp likely heard them too.

"How much?" Chung Mun asked.

"Don't worry," Grandma said, giving him a ray of hope, only to rip it apart.

"He heard everything."

"Kuak!" Chung Mun gripped his chest and tried to remember what he had spoken about with Chung Jin. Did he tell him where he hides the alcohol?

The whole night was a blur, he too was tired and babbled without much thought. He could only hope that nothing will come back to bite him in the ass!

Casting a glance over Chung Myung's sleeping form, his anxiety gradually dissipated, leaving only fatigue behind.

Gently, Chung Mun kneeled beside Chung Myung and carefully slid his arms under him. Supporting Chung Myung’s neck and legs, he lifted him into his arms.

Chung Myung stirred slightly but thankfully remained asleep, shifting into a more comfortable position.

With a relieved sigh, Chung Mun found it a bit challenging to keep his brother from slipping. It felt like just yesterday he could lift him with one arm.

Bidding his grandmother a peaceful night, Chung Mun carried his sajae to their room, settling him in between himself and Chung Jin.

"...Sahyung?" Chung Myung murmured softly, his pink eyes were clouded with sleep, and his cheeks glowed with a delicate flush.

"Go back to sleep," Chung Mun cooed, planting a gentle kiss on Chung Myung's forehead before cocooning them both beneath the blanket.

Settling into a cozier position, Chung Mun cradled Chung Myung in his arms and before long, he drifted off into a profound sleep. 

At some point during the night, Chung Jin shifted to snuggle against Chung Myung's other side, and by dawn, they became a tangled mess of limbs.

Sunlight streamed down, casting a warm glow on their skin, trying to rouse them from slumber, yet the brothers opted to bask in the comfort of their shared space instead.

Their nest was far too warm and comfortable, radiating a sense of security that they wanted to greedily cling on to a little longer.

Chung Mun told him about how Chung Myung's first time holding a sword was also the first time he made his blossoms.

"Woah, he's really a monster." Chung Jin stared in awe. He had heard tales of Chung Myung's extraordinary prowess before, but hearing it from his great sahyung made it all the more believable.

Chung Mun stilled at his reaction, anxious that he might have scared Chung Jin. 

Contrary to his belief, Chung Jin confidently thumped his chest and, with a beaming smile, proclaimed proudly,

"One of my older brothers is going to be the strongest in the world, the other is going to be the best sect leader in the world." 

His words were full of admiration and faith.

Chung Mun's eyes shimmered with gratitude and affection. Before he could fully process the sentiment, Chung Jin continued, his grin turning cheeky.

"And I, am going to be the most important, an unparalleled genius." 

"Brat."

From the other side, Chung Myung listened with unshed tears.

Really, his brothers were the best. 

Fuck it, they were all going to become monsters.

The most outstanding and extraordinary beings the world has ever known.

Chapter Text

The child ran.

Within a crowd of people, not one dared stop the child's pursuers.

In fact, it was a common occurrence for the people of Sichuan. Every child of the Tang family ran from home at least once in their lifetime. 

Some died.

Most were dragged back.

The child’s legs wobbled, but he refused to stop.

He didn't want to go back.

He didn't want to be in constant fear or quiver in pain after each dose.

His eyes darted back involuntarily, searching for his pursuers.

In his frantic rush, he collided with someone and tumbled to the ground.

He had to get up. But his legs wouldn't move.

NO!

His mind screamed, yet his body refused to obey.

“What bastard…” a voice muttered from above.

The child lifted his head, and through his strands of hair, he saw an angel.

Not even the tears in his eyes could distort that handsome face, framed by inky strings of hair and drunken eyes that gleamed red in the dusklight.

A breathtaking sight. If only his situation weren’t so dire, he might have savored it a moment longer.

"You've finally stopped." A gruff voice caused the child to freeze.

A cold sensation washed over him as the man's hand reached to grab him.

He squeezed his eyes shut and prayed for help.

No hand touched him.

Instead, a shadow loomed over his small figure.

"What the fuck do you think you're doing?" a dangerous tone demanded.

The child turned to see the angel he had bumped into, towering over him with an iron grip on the man's wrist.

The man huffed, annoyed.  "Look here, you look like a young master of a sect, so you must have heard about our Tang family."

The young warrior tossed the man's arm aside.

"I don't. What about it?"

The words ignited the man's anger, but he quickly regained his composure as other men wearing the same green robes joined his side.

"All I'm saying is that this is a family matter, it does not concern this young master."

"And all I'm seeing is a terrified child in front of me." The young warrior unsheathed his sword. "As a Taoist, no, as a human, how can I ignore it?"

Realizing words would get them nowhere, the men closed in to forcibly subdue him.

"Do not blame us," the man sneered his last words.

Within the blink of an eye, the men dropped to the ground, their bodies hitting the surface with a heavy thump. The scene unfolded so quickly that onlookers were left in shock, unable to comprehend what had just transpired.

"Are they...?" The child gasped in awe. He knew his family was strong, so he never imagined they could be taken down so easily right before his eyes.

"They're just unconscious… I think." The angel turned to face him.

The angel did look pretty young now that the child had a clearer view, but he still seemed massive compared to him.

"Were these bastards really your family?" the angel asked, his voice tinged with discomfort.

The child nodded.

"Why did you run?" The angel crouched beside him, inspecting his legs.

Oh, he was bleeding. He must have scratched himself while running.

"It hurts…"

The angel's expression darkened, prompting the child to quickly clarify, "The way our family trains is quite harsh, I also get bullied often…"

Wait, he was supposed to defuse the situation. Why was he throwing more wood into the fire?

"Bully you? Why not just beat them up then?"

"Huh?"

The angel's expression contorted, his smile taking on a wicked edge.

"Whenever my brothers bother me, I just beat the shit out of them. Ah, except my oldest."

"But I'm weak," the child whined.

The angel(?) wrapped a cloth he had ripped from one of the men around the child’s legs and let out a snort.

"Then get stronger."

"..."

The child stared, dumbfounded. It made sense, and yet none at all…

The young master turned around and gestured for him to climb onto his back.

After a moment of hesitation, the child clung to his neck like a kitten.

"So, home or keep running away?"

The child glanced at the unconscious men as he felt something stir with satisfaction within him.

"Home."

"Alright, brat, show me the way." The young man grinned slyly, his angelic appearance starting to resemble that of a devil more and more.

The child was the first—and only—to return home on his own two feet, fueled by newfound determination. The Tangs were unprepared for the storm he was about to bring.

Ah.

They forgot to exchange names.

•───────•°•❀•°•───────•

Years later, the Dark Saint ascended Mount Hua, having long surpassed his family and taken on challenges across the land.

"I have heard that the Plum Blossom Sword Saint is the strongest in the world." An arrogant smirk played on his lips. "The Dark Saint, Tang Bo requests a spar with the esteemed warrior."

A handsome man stepped forward, his expression tinged with annoyance. “What do I gain from this?”

Tang Bo’s smile faltered. Did this guy not know who he was?

"I'm the Dark Saint, don't you know?"

"I don't. What about it?"

"..."

"..."

“Alright then, if you win, I’ll serve you as my hyung or whatever.”

"Do you have money?"

The hell is up with that bastard?

"I'm a Tang."

There was no reaction from the other party. Forget the Dark Saint title; how could he not recognize his family's name?!

"I do..." Tang Bo coughed reluctantly.

The Sword Saint nodded, satisfied, and unsheathed his sword.

A wicked grin spread across the Sword Saint's face, giving Tang Bo a sense of déjà vu.

On that beautiful spring day atop Mount Hua, the trees gained blossoms earlier than usual.

Chung Myun gained a refillable wallet.

Tang Bo gained a broken head.

And Chung Jin gave up completely on understanding anything involving his brother.

What kind of lunatic follows a domestic abuser with such joy? Did he get hit so hard in the head that he lost his fucking mind?? Should he save him?

But…that exhilarated smile on his sahyung's face during the fight—Chung Jin knew it well. For others, it may seem evil intentioned, and it was indeed evil intentioned, but he could see the subtle differences in his brother's expressions.

It's been a while. Did he finally meet his match?

For him to excitedly smile like a child that found a new toy… No, wait! That is NOT a good smile!

Chung Myung smiled because he was already plotting all the ways to run that guy dry.

Chung Jin silently prayed for the Dark Saint as he watched Chung Myung land another hit.

'I hope you lived a good life.'

•───────•°•❀•°•───────•

Chung Myung didn’t believe the Tang freak would really keep his word.

“Hyung-nim, I’ve brought wine! Let’s drink!”

Chung Myung didn’t believe he'd ever run from free alcohol either.

"No! Go drink by yourself!"

It was fun at first to abuse that guy. But now, Tang Bo was following him through day and night. What was he, a fucking leech or something?

No matter where Chung Myung went, that lunatic stuck to him like glue.

No, there is a place where he can't just barge into.

"Sahyung!!"

For the first time in his life, Chung Myung refrained from breaking down the door; he needed it to keep that creep out.

Chung Mun sat at a table, poring over the finance ledgers as part of his future duties. He was set to become the next sect leader, so he had taken on most of the current sect leader's responsibilities during his absence.

And that included internal affairs too, meaning Chung Myung. No, who was he kidding? Chung Myung had been his concern long before he was even considered a candidate.

"Myung-ah, don't break— huh?" Chung Mun gaped in astonishment at the perfectly standing door. It almost brought tears to his eyes. 

"Did you finally learn to close a door?!" he exclaimed, covering his mouth in disbelief, a glint of pride sparkling in his eyes. To witness such a day in his lifetime…

"..."

Chung Myung ignored the blatant disrespect, having more troublesome matters to take care of.

"Sahyung! Do something about that bastard! I can't even breathe, sahyung!"

It sounded oddly similar to what others usually said while complaining about Chung Myung.

Chung Mun, the oldest brother, the one who gained enlightenment at a young age and carried the title of "The Great Altruistic Sword", was doubled over, clutching his stomach and shaking with laughter.

"Kwek—That's what you deserve! Pfft—bahaha!"

It irritated Chung Myung to no end, but what could he do about it?

"Especially after making trouble in Chengdu, you bastard!"

"I told you that wasn't me…" 

"Sahyung, the Dark Saint is waiting outside…" Chung Jin stated as he stepped into the room

A single glance was all it took for Chung Jin to grasp the situation in record time. He quickly checked left and right, then closed the door, turning to Chung Myung with a bright, mocking smile in his eyes.

"Sah—eek!"

Chung Jin barely managed to get a sound out before Chung Myung raised one fist and grabbed his collar with the other.

"Wa-wait! I didn't say anything!"

"I saw those eyes, you bastard!" 

"Don't fight in here!" Chung Mun interjected, causing Chung Myung to release his sajae with a growl. 

In a flash, Chung Jin cowered behind Chung Mun.

"Hiding, are we now?" Chung Myung spat.

"Yes, we both."

"..."

Chung Mun choked on a chuckle.

"Y-you— Sahyung!"

Chung Mun wanted to spare his sajae—well, not really— but he couldn't hold himself at the sight of Chung Myung shivering in embarrassment.

So he turned his gaze to the window, watching the gentle fall of plum petals, allowing a peaceful silence to wrap around the room. 

Chung Jin snorted before both brothers collapsed to the ground, laughing.

Chung Myung stared with an empty gaze, devoid of any hope. "Are you done?"

"Ah, yes." Chung Mun tried to compose himself, though an annoying grin stubbornly remained on his lips.

"Why don't we— hah, s-send him on a— kh, mission?…huff." Chung Jin suggested in a pathetic attempt to catch his breath. "Alright, I'm done."

Chung Mun contemplated the idea. “That would just give you an excuse to hide—”

Chung Jin rolled over, shaking with poorly concealed snickers.

Chung Mun coughed into his fist, trying his best not to get infected. 

“There are rumors of bandits causing trouble in Ningxia. Go check it out, will you?”

Without a word, Chung Myung stomped out, his fist trembling in frustration as the giggles erupted once again behind him.

"Hyung-nim—"

"I have a mission, don't follow me."

Tang Bo's shoulders slumped. "I can help you."

"It's a secret mission, no."

Chung Myung felt refreshed as he left a sulking leech behind.

•───────•°•❀•°•───────•

Eager to vent his frustrations, Chung Myung charged boldly toward the bandit camp.

"W-who are you?" The unfortunate bandits were caught completely off guard.

It was rare for anyone not to recognize the Plum Blossom Sword Saint. Was this how that brat felt?

Speaking of him…

"I'm the Dark Saint, don't you know?" Chung Myung said, a sly smile creeping across his face.

•───────•°•❀•°•───────•

"Hyung-nim, you won’t believe this! There’s a bastard causing trouble using my name! Me! The Dark Saint!" Tang Bo whined.

"Oh no, that sounds terrible!" Chung Myung replied, fake concern dripping from his tone. "We should find that handsome bastard and punish him!"

"How do you know he's handsome?"

Without saying anything, Chung Myung grasped Tang Bo's wrist and dragged him along.

•───────•°•❀•°•───────•

Running from place to place, drinking, eating, and beating bandits with that leech wasn’t so bad. Actually, he had to agree it was fun. Their attacks flowed together flawlessly, leaving a satisfying thrill in their bones.

As they wandered down the streets of Shaanxi, half-drunk, some bastards’ voices echoed from a dark alley catching the two saints’ attention.

"That Mount Hua dog bastard is on the loose again."

"The current sect leader can’t keep it under control!"

"I heard the next one was chosen just because he can put a leash around his neck!"

"Kekeke! What other use could he have otherwise?"

A vein throbbed on Chung Myung's forehead. "You dare—"

"You dare insult the next Jangmun of Mount Hua?"

A chilling voice sliced through the air, causing the thugs to tense up at the intrusion as Tang Bo marched ahead into the alley. "You must have a death wish! Should I fulfill it?"

Chung Myung had no idea Tang Bo respected his sahyung so much. That was a gold star in his book—

"Ack! It's the Plum Blossom Sword Saint!"

Tang Bo froze.

With a frown, Chung Myung moved into the alley behind him. Upon seeing Chung Myung, the bandits turned white as a sheet, pointed in his direction, and screamed in fear.

"Th-The Dark Saint is with him!"

Tang Bo and Chung Myung exchanged blank glances.

"..."

"..."

Slap!

The two saints clasped their hands in a firm grip. A mutual understanding shimmered in their handshake, and a silent agreement passed between them.

Then Chung Myung turned to the thugs, cracking his knuckles while Tang Bo pulled his gloves tightly over his hands.

Blood-curdling screams pierced through the night, commencing a ghost tale that would haunt the town for generations to come

•───────•°•❀•°•───────•

"Chung Myung, I understand you don't care about your reputation, but how could you drag the Dark Saint down with you?" Chung Mun massaged his temples.

“He stepped in first, though?” Chung Myung, the Plum Blossom Sword Saint, sat with his arms raised.

Chung Mun raised a suspicious eyebrow and let out a tired sigh. “Where is he?”

“He was called home.” Chung Myung wondered if the Dark Saint was getting scolded the same way he was.

Thankfully, his sahyung got wind of the whole story and didn’t punish him too harshly. Also, that leech went back, just like he’d wanted…

But it felt weird. Quiet. Empty.

But Chung Myung did not miss him! … He only came to Sichuan to drink away from his sahyung's meddling eyes.

Hm? Why not head down to Shaanxi? It’s, uh… too close! His sahyung surely hired beggars to watch his every move.

“...”

Chung Myung circled around the Tang Estate, contemplating whether he should go in, grab that leech, and empty his wallet when a shuffling noise caught his attention.

His red eyes lifted, meeting a pair of green pupils.

Perched on the Tang Estate's walls, the Dark Saint stared frozen like a child caught red-handed.

Tang Bo exhaled in relief. “Oh, it’s just you, hyung-ni—” he slipped down.

"Oi! The fuck are you doing?" Chung Myung instinctively spread his arms, catching Tang Bo before he could even process why.

“Th-thanks, I’m, uh… escaping?” Tang Bo averted his gaze sheepishly. His disheveled outfit was different from usual. That annoying green robe was missing, leaving him fully clad in black. He blended perfectly into the night— oh.

'Smart,' Chung Myung thought.

Tang Bo pinched Chung Myung's muscles. "They're softer than I thou—eep!"

Chung Myung dropped him to the ground.

“Ouch!” Tang Bo rubbed his sore ass, sulking.

“Let’s go drink.” Without looking back, Chung Myung walked away.

Tang Bo's eyes lit up with excitement as he sprang to his feet and hurried over to Chung Myung.  “Yes, Hyung!”

Chung Myung glanced back briefly, then slowed his pace to match Tang Bo’s, walking side by side while the other yapped endlessly.

From that moment on, Tang Bo became a constant noise in his life.

•───────•°•❀•°•───────•

Strong. His hyung was strong.

It oddly reminded him of the young warrior who had inspired him to grow strong enough to beat stand up to his family.

Tang Bo reminisced about that boy, wondering what he was up to.

“Leech, what are you thinking so hard about?” Chung Myung asked from across the table.

In Tang Bo’s pavilion, the two saints shared drinks while relishing each other’s company.

“I’m not thinking hard; I’m just thinking—not that you could relate.” Tang Bo shook his head.

At first, he pursued the Sword Saint seeking to develop his strength and skills. Now, he genuinely enjoyed his company, even going so far as to call him an honorary guest of the Tang family.

Chung Myung was free to come and go as he pleased—truly a nightmare for the Tang family.

"..."

“No, wait, hyung—” Tang Bo dodged a punch and stepped back. “It was a joke! A joke!”

"Oh, really? Let me show you a joke, too."

"Joke with words, you blackened Taoist!" Tang Bo ran away.

“Damn leech, stop right there! I promise to hit hard,” Chung Myung shouted as he chased him.

"You're supposed to say you won't hit!" 

"Haah? Why would I not hit?"

"..."

That bastard!

The Tang elders sighed in exasperation, shaking their heads at the familiar antics of the revered saints. Hoping to prevent history from repeating itself, they decided to lighten the children’s training regimen.

After all, the consequences were truly unforgiving.

Chapter Text

"Chung Myung."

"I was with Tang Bo."

Chung Mun paused, staring at Chung Myung, who had replied far too quickly, with an usual response yet oddly off.

"Right… I wanted to talk with you about something. Got a moment?"

"Ah, yes, sure!" Chung Myung looked relieved for some reason. Chung Mun made a mental note to look into it later.

Chung Myung obediently followed his brother, now the sect leader, through the forest, growing more curious by the second. But since his sahyung seemed relaxed, it was probably not a big matter.

"You're getting along well with your friend," Chung Mun stated.

"Friend? Tang Bo?" Chung Myung tilted his head. "I suppose we are."

"I’m glad." Chung Mun smiled, genuinely happy for his brother. He hoped their friendship would continue for a long time. 

"Why don’t you invite him to join us for the autumn festival?"

The two brothers stopped at the edge of the forest, watching over the sect from above. It was a common spot they used to have heart-to-heart conversations. 

It gave them a sense of closure.

"Isn't it a family tradition?" Chung Myung asked, following the direction of his brother's gaze.

Behind the storage, Tang Bo sat with Chung Jin, acting suspiciously, as if they were involved in some illegal dealings.

"Isn't he practically family already?" It was more of a statement than a question.

"Suddenly, I have an urge to hit them both." 

Something told Chung Myung that whatever those two idiots were up to was somehow related to him.

"Close enough." Chung Mun said with a smile. What more confirmation was needed than Chung Myung wanting to beat them up equally? Truly, a wonderful friendship.

"I’ll ask him later." Chung Myung sat down, closing his eyes to enjoy the gentle breeze. "Though I doubt he’ll refuse."

Chung Mun gazed at him with a nostalgic smile. 

Since becoming the sect leader, moments like this had become less common. He had also moved to the sect leader's residence, and from what he’d heard, Chung Jin dedicated most of his time in the library or the finance hall.

It brought him comfort to see that Chung Myung had found someone to spend his time with. Even if that person was another lunatic, he would rather see them causing chaos than watch Chung Myung drink alone with a distant gaze.

Although Chung Myung himself might not realize or admit it, Chung Mun knows how lonely he can get at times. 

His habit of skipping practice doesn’t seem to hinder his growth either, which appears to know no bounds. There may come a day when he gets so far ahead that Chung Mun might not be able to run by his side.

That thought terrified Chung Mun through more nights than he'd like to think about.

Therefore, he cherished these moments now more than ever.

Settling next to Chung Myung, he allowed his brother to rest against him as they continued to watch over their sect.

•───────•°•❀•°•───────•

"You suck."

"Shut up!"

Chung Myung teasingly poked Chung Jin, who was trying to win the top prize at a dagger throwing game.

Thud!

"We have a winner!" the stall owner shouted.

The two of them turned to look at Tang Bo, who rubbed his neck sheepishly.

"Isn't it cheating if that's his main skill?" Chung Jin pouted.

"Sadly, I don't think that's how it works," Chung Myung said, patting his brother's back.

Chung Mun returned with candy skewers. "Want some?" he asked his brothers.

They grabbed each a piece and resumed their stroll.

The four of them navigated through the lively festival, debating whether octopus was better steamed or grilled, all while surrounded by the enticing scents of fried desserts and grilled meats.

Colorful lanterns hung above, casting a soft glow over the stalls where merchants called out to passersby.

"Is this your first time?" Chung Mun observed Tang Bo, who seemed mesmerized by the atmosphere.

"I’ve been here before, but not during a festival," Tang Bo replied regretfully. He had been so focused on honing his skills that he missed out on the simplest joys of life.

"Wanna join us for the Spring Festival too?" Chung Myung interjected, popping between them.

Tang Bo's eyes sparkled with excitement. "If Dosa Chung Jin and Dosa Jangmun-nim will have me, I'm all in!"

Chung Jin raised his hand. "I don't have a problem with it." 

"I'd be more than happy to have you," Chung Mun replied with a warm smile. "Also, call me Chung Mun."

Tang Bo tried to ignore the piercing gaze that Chung Myung sent his way.

"I'd like to live," Tang Bo admitted.

Engrossed in conversation, they unknowingly wandered to the secluded end of the town, driven by habit more than intention.

The three brothers froze simultaneously.

Tang Bo looked around, then studied their expressions. "What's wrong?"

Chung Mun bit his lip trying to speak, but no words came out.

Chung Myung continued to stare pensively, lost in thought.

It fell on Chung Jin to explain. "It was our grandmother's house. She passed away a while ago."

Tang Bo offered a sympathetic, "I’m sorry for your loss."

"It's all in the past." Chung Myung attempted to change the subject, but Tang Bo seemed keen on seeing things through.

"Why don't we go in?" Tang Bo suggested.

"Somebody lives there now," Chung Mun finally found his voice.

"So? We can just politely ask them to let us in." Tang Bo was oddly determined.

Chung Mun shook his head, but Tang Bo had already walked toward the house.

Nobody stopped him.

Be it wishful hope or hesitance to get closer to the house, they didn't know.

Knock.

A beautiful lady opened the door shortly after. She appeared to be in her forties, yet not a single strand of hair had lost its dark color. Wariness flickered in her eyes as she looked at Tang Bo, but it dissipated when she noticed the brothers behind him.

"You're those kind Taoists!" she exclaimed, bowing in respect. "Is there any help I can offer you?"

Chung Mun attempted to politely decline, but his voice faltered as the earthy scent of the house hit him.

"We wished to know if we could see the house, if that's not a problem," Tang Bo spoke on their behalf.

"How could I deny my heroes? Please, come in!" The lady warmly invited them inside.

Chung Mun didn't move, so Chung Jin and Chung Myung had to grab his sides and carry him inside.

"Take a seat, I'll bring some food," the lady gestured to a table.

"Ah, you did not have to bo—" Chung Mun found his voice again, but was interrupted by Tang Bo.

"Thank you!" 

She returned shortly with plates of roasted duck, lotus root, steamed vegetables, rice, braised pork ribs, and, to Chung Myung's delight, some bottles of wine.

Chung Jin sprang to his feet to help the lady set the table. It was a full-course feast just like their grandmother used to make.

"Can I know the story of these 'heroes'?" Tang Bo asked curiously.

The three brothers blushed shyly while the lady had a sad, reminiscent smile.

"These three Taoists saved me from bandits then gave and helped me move into this house."

"We arrived a little too late, though," Chung Myung said, clenching his fist in regret.

The woman shook her head. "My husband wasn’t going to make it either way. I’m more than grateful for your help."

Chung Mun, lost in thought, excused himself and stepped outside. Chung Jin and Chung Myung silently agreed to give him some space.

"Mama?" A small head popped up from behind the door.

"A-Jin? Come here and meet the heroes I told you about," the lady called.

With stars in his eyes, the child rushed inside, straight for Chung Myung. "Hero!"

"A-Jin?" Tang Bo asked amused, sensing there was more to the story.

"A good name for a renowned Taoist!" Chung Jin proudly puffed out his chest. "But I feel hurt that the child would choose the devil over me."

Tang Bo chuckled. He got used to children fawning over Chung Myung, but it seems his brother didn't.

"He's a lot smaller than A-Pyung!" Chung Myung settled the child in his lap.

"Who?" Chung Jin glanced curiously.

"My nephew. He likes Chung Myung. Actually, a lot of the kids seem to like him for some reason,” Tang Bo explained, still oblivious to the fact that he, too, had admired Chung Myung as a child.

"Wait, for real?” Chung Jin couldn't believe his ears. The devil, Chung Myung, was more adored than him??

"Got a problem with that?" Chung Myung narrowed his eyes.

Chung Jin ignored him and leaned down to the child, whispering menacingly, 

"This guy scares ghosts away with his face only."

Chung Myung smacked Chung Jin on the head. "Don’t scare the brat; ghosts don’t exist.”

Unexpectedly, Chung Jin's words had the opposite effect he intended.

"You can scare ghosts away? That’s so cool!” The child gazed up at Chung Myung in awe.

Chung Myung grabbed the child's hand and spread his fingers. "Yeah, and you can too. Just raise your hand like this and yell 'Go away!'"

Chung Jin watched, astonished, as the child burst into giggles and ran outside to shout “Go away!” at every corner.

“A-Jin, you’ll trip like that!” the lady called out with a smile as she hurried after him.

"Since when are you so good with kids?" Chung Jin asked, surprised.

“He's gained some experience in my household,” Tang Bo explained, stepping closer. “You should've seen how awkward he was at the beginning.”

Chung Myung pushed him away. "Gah! Don't tell him that!"

Tang Bo and Chung Jin exchanged a knowing wink, one that Chung Myung didn’t quite understand.

'Later,' was their shared thought as the two giggled.

Chung Myung shook his head and got up on his feet. He grabbed two bottles of wine before turning to leave but paused to explain in a weird silent voice. "I'm going to check on sahyung."

Tang Bo played with his fingers awkwardly. "I didn't meddle too much, did I?"

“No, in fact, they needed this,” Chung Jin replied, pouring a glass of wine for Tang Bo before filling one for himself.

“Chung Mun doesn’t say it himself, but I think he feels a bit responsible for Grandma since he couldn’t come home to take care of her,” Chung Jin added, taking a sip of his wine.

"Why?" Tang Bo clutched his glass.

"Grandma didn't want him to waste his time here, or so she'd say," Chung Jin reminisced with a wistful tone. "As for Chung Myung…"

Tang Bo shifted closer highly intrigued.

"He took it very hard too. He had the best relationship with her, drinking together and all that. Grandma had some mind illness and thus was secluded on the edge of the town. I think she saw her own isolation in Chung Myung…”

Chung Jin paused to pour himself another glass, recalling with an amused huff how often he'd get hit by their grandma. 

Tang Bo glanced amused at his reaction, then the mood turned serious again.

"After she died, Chung Myung barely ate for a while and would hide himself quite often. He worried us both seriously. Chung Mun managed to drag him for a talk and it was okay for a while."

"For a while?" Tang Bo pressed.

Chung Jin grimaced, recalling the moment they gave the house away.

"Chung Myung was highly against it, but he gave in when we met the madam. She was widowed and pregnant back then. He was the first to help her settle in. We kept the tradition of visiting for the festival, but we never came this close to the house again, let alone get in."

Chung Jin turned to Tang Bo and smiled gratefully. "For that, thank you."

Tang Bo accepted the gratitude with a nod. "Thank you too, for telling me."

They enjoyed a pleasant silence for a moment before Chung Jin pulled out another bottle of wine.

"Now, what was that about sahyung and children?"

Tang Bo smiled mischievously and started storytelling.

•───────•°•❀•°•───────•

Chung Mun listened pensively to the sounds of the cicadas as he sat on the edge of the wooden porch.

He was aware of the rustle of clothes behind him but took a moment to acknowledge his presence. 

With a sigh, he silently tapped the empty space next to him.

Chung Myung settled softly next to him and handed him a bottle. Chung Mun accepted it but didn’t open it.

They sat quietly as Chung Myung sipped from his bottle. With a sigh, Chung Mun finally opened his own. It burned his throat bitterly.

After a few sips, he managed to open up.

"When I was first sent to Mount Hua, I felt abandoned, so I refused to speak with her for a long time."

Chung Myung said nothing, patiently waiting for his brother to continue until the next words hit him.

"Then you came along."

Chung Myung glanced at Chung Mun with a questioning gaze but remained silent. 

Chung Mun chuckled and patted Chung Myung's head.

"It's funny how children don't understand their parents' feelings until they become parents themselves."

His smile turned bitter as he continued talking.

"It was a harsh winter, and you got sick. You were too small for pills, and we thought you would die."

His voice cracked slightly.

"I had no idea what to do, so I left the sect without permission to find a better medic. It all turned out well in the end, but I never want to feel that fright again."

Chung Mun slumped his shoulders at his now empty bottle.

"It was impossible for Grandma to raise me on her own, and honestly, I'm glad she sent me to Mount Hua. I love the sect; it became my home and the most important aspect of my life."

Chung Mun leaned on Chung Myung and hugged him tightly.  "I've made another family too."

Chung Myung reciprocated the hug and ignored the drops of water that fell on his shoulder.

"I-I fought with her again before she died," Chung Mun's voice crumbled. "I wanted to leave the sect to be with her at least for the end… "

A hiccup escaped him as his sobs grew louder.

"She refused any company so I-I got mad and yelled at her. I don't remember wh-what, but I know it hurt her."

"Those were my last words to her," he whispered so quietly that Chung Myung wouldn't have heard them had his sahyung been any further away.

"I'm sure she never resented you." Chung Myung finally commented. 

"She likely felt relieved when you returned to the sect. There wasn't a single drinking night with her when she didn't say she loved you."

"I-m sorry, I'm the oldest and the sect le-leader…"

"Sahyung, let me be the adult this time, alright?" Chung Myung tightened his hold on Chung Mun.

Chung Mun stopped holding back his tears and cried his heart out until he fell asleep.

•───────•°•❀•°•───────•

Chung Myung carried his sleeping brother back inside, where Tang Bo was covering Chung Jin with a blanket from who knows where. Chung Myung raised an eyebrow.

"Blackout," Tang Bo explained.

Chung Myung nodded and glanced around; Tang Bo seemed to read his mind again.

"The madam gave us some blankets and pillows; she said it's ok to stay over for the night." Tang Bo moved to help Chung Myung tuck Chung Mun next to Chung Jin.

Instinctively, the two sleeping brothers cuddled on each other. Chung Myung watched them with a sentimental smile.

Tang Bo waved the last bottles of wine. "Last one standing?"

Chung Myung excitedly flopped next to him and grabbed a bottle.

As they drank and giggled quietly, teasing Chung Mun's awful cooking, Chung Myung suddenly flung an arm around Tang Bo's neck, bringing their foreheads together.

"Bo-yah, thank you."

"Thank you for inviting me, Hyung-nim."

Tang Bo soon dozed off on Chung Myung's shoulders.

Chung Myung looked longingly at the passing moon.

"Halmi, I'm sorry we came so late.

We're all okay, so you can rest in peace.

Thank you for sending Chung Mun to Mount Hua and for having me in your family.

Rest well and goodbye."

Chung Mun blinked slowly, his eyes too dry to cry again. He caught a glimpse of Chung Myung tucking Tang Bo and himself into bed before turning his gaze to Chung Jin. 

Chung Jin was snoring loudly, likely the reason Chung Mun had woken up. He closed his sajae's mouth then pulled the blanket to properly cover him. 

Soon after, Chung Mun succumbed to sleep once more.

•───────•°•❀•°•───────•

Chung Mun handed the woman a bag of gold.

"This... you don't need to—" she started, reaching to refuse, but was cut off.

"Take it. If not for us, then for the child."

"...Thank you!" The woman bowed gratefully.

Chung Mun, Chung Jin, Chung Myung, and Tang Bo reciprocated the bow and bid their farewells.

It was still morning, but they didn’t want to overstay their welcome, even if the woman didn’t complain. Either way, one yawn was enough to infect the whole group.

Tang Bo swayed tiredly and Chung Myung lagged behind with him, keeping a constant watch and pulling him closer whenever he seemed about to run into something.

"Are you okay?" Chung Myung asked as Tang Bo nearly hit a pole. They paused for a moment while Tang Bo slapped himself awake.

"Yeah, I'm just tired."

"Myung-ah, Tang Bo?" Chung Mun called, sounding confused.

"We're good! Coming!" Chung Myung shouted back, nudging Tang Bo.

Chung Mun patiently waited for them both.

"What to do now? We have another day left." 

"Let's go drink!"

Their heads whipped in surprise and disbelief. 

Not at Chung Myung.

But at Chung Jin?

"Sajae…" Chung Myung gasped, his eyes shining with pride.

"....Shouldn't we at least eat first?" Chung Mun was still trying to make sense of it. Did he perhaps drink too much the other day and was now hearing things?

"I don't mean something big… Let's just go to an inn for now. Honestly, I want to rest some more," Chung Jin weakly explained, but it sounded like he had something specific in mind.

"That's a sentiment I can reciprocate, I suppose." Chung Mun shrugged it off and picked a random inn.

His suspicions only grew the moment Chung Jin got them a private room and left.

"I'll order; go ahead without me!"

They arranged blankets and pillows on the floor, fully aware that they'd probably end up sleeping some more.

"Chung Jin is taking a while," Chung Mun pointed out, watching fondly as Chung Myung helped Tang Bo stretch.

"Do you want to stretch too, sahyung?" Chung Myung caught him staring and hopped right behind him.

"I'm goo—" Chung Mun gasped softly as Chung Myung started massaging his shoulders, instantly melting against him.

"Let's go to a hot spring after," Chung Myung suggested, and Chung Mun hummed in agreement.

"I take it you enjoyed them, Dosa Hyung?" Tang Bo smiled knowingly.

"I don't get why you pester me at Mount Hua when you have such luxury at home."

"You have a hot spring at home?" Chung Mun asked surprised.

"It has its medical uses," Tang Bo explained.

"Oh?" Chung Mun propped his head up with an arm, watching Tang Bo finish stretching.

"By the way, I didn't get to thank you."

"Don't mention it." Tang Bo shook out his arms.

"Still, I don't think I would've had the courage, so thank you."

A moment of comfortable silence settled in the room, a drowsiness filling the air, when Chung Jin abruptly slammed the door, making them slightly jump.

"Sorry, it took me a bit." He walked in with a bottle of what was presumably wine and four cups.

Chung Myung leaned on Chung Mun's back and peeked over his shoulder curiously.

"Spit it out already. What are you hiding?"

"Was I that obvious?" Chung Jin scratched his neck sheepishly.

"Yes." The other three blankly replied in unison.

Chung Jin pouted then slammed the bottle on the table.

"Let's become sworn brothers."

Chung Mun and Tang Bo tensed, a hint of childish excitement in their expressions, while Chung Myung raised an eyebrow.

"Aren't we already brothers?"

"This is different," Chung Jin said but offered no further explanation. "Tang Bo will join us too."

The other two seemed pleased, if not eager at the idea, so Chung Myung just went with the flow.

Chung Jin sat down and opened the bottle before pulling out his sword and lightly cutting his finger.

"I don't think that's the way…" Chung Mun remarked worriedly as Chung Jin let a few drops of blood fall into the wine.

"I don't think it's sanitary either..." Tang Bo mumbled, slightly repulsed.

"No, it's not the traditional way," Chung Jin said, flashing a grin at Chung Mun. "It's our way."

"It's fucking weird," Chung Myung commented.

Although the other two agreed, they didn't directly say it.

Chung Jin's shoulders sagged, prompting Chung Mun to concede.

"Alright, we'll do it."

He didn't like seeing his little brother feeling down or rejected, and as the oldest, he had to take the lead. Chung Myung and Tang Bo naturally followed.

After they've all spilled some blood, Chung Jin shook the bottle to mix the contents and handed it to Chung Mun.

"The oldest should do the honors."

Chung Mun took the bottle and poured four cups. Each of them grabbed one and…

"Is this really alright?" 

"Wasn't it your idea…" 

There was some hesitance, from the culprit included.

Chung Mun lifted his cup high, and the other three mirrored his action, their hearts pounding in anticipation as they waited for his words.

"No matter what, no matter when, we'll always be brothers!"

Clink!

Sharing a breath, they all drank in one gulp.

…

"Sajae… your taste in wine is awful," Chung Myung blurted out.

"I have to agree with Hyung-nim,"  Tang Bo raised his sleeve to his mouth while Chung Mun simply flashed a sweaty smile.

"It's… a distinguished taste!" Chung Jin grunted in defense.

Chung Myung leaned back with a playful smirk. "What’s next? A fine selection of vinegar?"

Tang Bo burst into laughter, unable to hold back. 

Chung Mun, fighting to keep a straight face, chimed in, "Either way, I’m a tea person."

Huffing in amusement, Chung Jin's expression brightened, drawing the others into his joyful mood.

"With this, from now on, as long as we're together, nothing that comes our way can take us down!"

•───────•°•❀•°•───────•

"I'm sorry…" Chung Jin coughed as he leaned against the stone wall.

"I said all that and yet, I was the first to leave." 

"I shouldn't have…"

Chung Jin bit his lip, sitting in absolute darkness—a rat in a hole, hiding from the demonic sect that was chasing him.

"I'm so sorry."

If only he had stayed with him instead of pulling that stupid bravado and going alone. 

Tang Bo and Chung Mun would mourn him, but they would eventually pull themselves back up.

Chung Myung will surely blame himself.

He would take it the hardest—he’d be the one to find him. Chung Jin was sure of it.

But Chung Jin would be gone by the end—no, even if he searched for him right now,, Chung Jin couldn’t make it.

And if he were to abandon the frontlines for him, Chung Jin wouldn't forgive him either.

His sahyung is needed there, or they would all perish.

Yet, even in death, Chung Jin would wait.

"Sahyung…"

Tears freely flowed down his cheeks,

falling down

soaking into his bones

"I'm sorry"

A small back hunched in the darkness, crying his heart out.

Sajae… 

"I'm sorry I'm so late."

Cheong Jin-ah…

You believed I would come.

This foolish brother of yours.

This useless sahyung.

Chung Myung's fists clenched the ground.

His throat had long gone dry, yet his vision continued to blur.

"I- I couldn't—I…"

His words failed him.

A heavy pressure bore down on his chest, and his body trembled.

Let's go back.

To Mount Hua.

To our home.

A hand clasped his shoulders.

"Chung Myung-ah." Baek Cheon exhaled softly, feeling the tremble of his sajae. 

"Shouldn't we escort this person to Mount Hua?" He reached to cover the skeleton, but Chung Myung stopped him.

"I'll do it." 

I have to do it.

"Sasuk, please."

It was an unusually quiet plea.

Baek Cheon stepped back with a nod.

Chung Myung turned back to the skeleton and removed his outer robe.

He carefully and slowly wrapped the remains in his cloth, as if they would shatter with a sudden move.

With the tip of his sword, he scratched letters—words—into the stone wall before grabbing the remains and leaving the cave.

A small tingle brushed past his ears, like a ghostly whisper that momentarily stopped him in his tracks.

It couldn't be. 

It was just a hopeful, desperate hallucination.

Chung Myung bit his lip and continued on his way.

Even in death, I'll always be with you.

Because you see, sahyung,

we're brothers

no matter when or what

Guide our children well.

Goodbye.

Chapter Text

"Hyung-nim, have you heard about Yeonhwa? It's a popular brothel in Chengdu."

"What nonsense are you spouting now?"

"I want to visit it with my brother."

"A brothel? A brotheeel ?"

"W-Wait—Ack!"

"I'm a Taoist, you idiot!"

"Really? You look more like a bandit though— Wait! It's a joke! A joke!"

Tang Bo scrambled behind a tree, clutching the rough bark like his life depended on it. Every time Chung Myung moved left, Tang Bo darted right, the two circling the trunk like children in a twisted game of tag. And when Chung Myung closed the distance, Tang Bo bolted to the safety of another tree.

With an irritated growl, Chung Myung snatched a pebble and hurled it at Tang Bo's leg. The impact sent him stumbling, his head smacking painfully against the tree.

"Oww… I-I heard they have good wine—Eep!"

A flash of steel whizzed past Tang Bo’s head, the blade spearing through his hair, embedding itself with a thunk in the bark just inches away.

"Wine?"

Chung Myung pulled back, eyes gleaming with sudden interest.

"You want to go to a brothel for wine?"

Tang Bo eyed the sword nervously, its edge hovering far too close for comfort.

"Why? You think I’m interested in... touching women barely half my age?" he snapped, genuinely offended. 

"Do I look like some kind of pervert to you?"

"You do."

"...!"

Those words, spoken without hesitation, stabbed Tang Bo right in the chest.

"I’m not!" he whined, his voice taking on a pitiful, childish tone. "They say the brothel has its own special wine, and I just wanted to try it!"

"Why not go alone then?"

"What fun is there in drinking by myself?"

Chung Myung remained skeptical, but Tang Bo could see the curiosity flickering in his eyes. Just a little more persuasion...

"Rumor has it, the wine is smooth and bold, like juice, with a sweet aroma of berries," Tang Bo continued, sidling up to Chung Myung and draping himself over his shoulder like an eager salesman. His voice low as he whispered temptations. 

"The finish lingers for hours, like rich chocolate melting on your tongue. One sip, and you’re hooked~"

Chung Myung’s mouth watered at the vivid description, curiosity gnawing at his resolve. He’d be fine if nobody found out, right?

"...Okay."

The soft crunch of a leaf snapping underfoot jolted them both. Their heads whipped around, eyes locking onto the intruder.

"Ah…"

Chung Jin stood frozen like a startled deer, locking eyes with his deranged Sahyung and his special needs friend.

"I didn’t hear anything!" he shouted, before spinning on his heels and bolting away like a rabbit.

Without a second thought, Chung Myung grabbed Tang Bo by the scruff of his collar and hurled him forward with a force that would make a tiger jealous.

"Catch him!"

Tang Bo soared through the air, crashing into Chung Jin with all the grace of a cannonball, sending them both sprawling to the ground.

"Jangm—" Chung Jin tried to call out, but his words were muffled by Tang Bo, who kept him pinned down.

"Jin-ah, Jin-ah," Chung Myung purred, approaching like a predator closing in on its prey, clicking his tongue with each slow step.

"There’s no way I’m letting you live—leave."

Desperate, Chung Jin bit down on Tang Bo’s hand, just like his goby Sahyung had taught him. Tang Bo yelped, jerking his hand back with a hiss of pain.

"W-What are you going to do with me?"

"If you snitch to Sahyung, I’ll spend the rest of the month—maybe the whole year—in the Repentance Cave."

"I—I won’t tell him you plan to go to a brothel—ah..."

The two madmen exchanged a dark, silent glance, as though they were communicating their sinister plans for their unfortunate captive... and it seemed they reached an agreement.

"To make sure…" Chung Myung’s smile twisted into something devilish. "I’ll just have to take you with me."

"Jang—" Chung Jin’s protests were abruptly silenced as his mouth was gagged, and his hands and legs were swiftly bound.

With a satisfied grunt, Chung Myung slung his helpless Sajae over his shoulder and made his escape over the walls of Mount Hua with Tang Bo eagerly leading the way.

If any disciples saw them... No, they didn’t.

•───────•°•❀•°•───────•

"Ouch!" Chung Jin cried dramatically, rubbing his sore wrists.

Now holed up in Tang Bo’s residence, he had long since given up on trying to escape, his shoulders slumped in defeat.

"What are you doing?" he asked, raising an eyebrow at the younger gremlins stripping off their robes.

"Changing?"

"Sajae… don't tell me you plan to waltz into a brothel wearing Mount Hua robes…?"

"...Give me a pair too."

Chung Jin's cheeks flushed with embarrassment as the other two cackled.

"Don’t worry, Sajae. I won’t let any women touch you," Chung Myung declared proudly, sounding almost like a reliable Sahyung as he tossed him a set of plain robes.

"Also, Bo-yah's treating us."

"I never said that?"

"Alright then, but we’re taking this day to the grave,” Chung Jin was finally on board.

"I never said I’d treat anyone??”

"Bo-yah, stop living in the past.”

"Tang Bo, I graciously accept your offer.” 

"???"

With a heavy sigh, Tang Bo surrendered to his fate, silently bidding farewell to this month’s allowance.

"Then, my good men, what are we waiting for? Let’s go!”

The trio emerged from the residential quarters and set a brisk pace toward the heart of Chengdu, their robes fluttering gracefully in the evening chill.

As they neared the city's famed pleasure district, the ornate entrance and delicate lanterns cast a warm, inviting glow that beckoned them forward.

It was only then, standing at the threshold of the tall wodden house, that the reality of where they were truly sank in. Their cheeks flushed a soft red.

"..."

"Do we… just go in?” Chung Myung asked shyly, feeling uncharacteristically embarrassed.

"Y-Yeah, I think so," Tang Bo replied, his voice cracking awkwardly as he fussed with his collar, straightening it in a futile attempt to look more composed.

They stood there, rooted to the spot like children caught sneaking sweets. The soft glow of the lanterns painted their faces in bright hues, but nothing could chase away the jittery tension between them.

Before they could even decide who would go first, an elder courtesan approached. Despite the touch of silver in her hair, her face held a youthful elegance, and her knowing smile spoke of years of experience.

"Welcome, dear customers,” she greeted warmly, bowing slightly. "Are you here for our beauties?”

"Ah, no, we’re here because we heard rumors about your house wine.” Tang Bo took the initiative, his voice a little too loud and eager. The other two bobbed their heads in desperate agreement.

The elder courtesan’s gaze swept over them, a glint of amusement in her eyes. 

"Would you like a private room?"

"Yes, please." Tang Bo exhaled in pure relief, his expression melting into gratitude as the woman gestured for them to follow.

They shuffled forward like nervous ducks, their wide-eyed gazes darting around to take in the lavish interior. 

The place was far larger than it appeared from the outside, its interior draped in silk curtains and adorned with intricate paintings that spoke of both elegance and wealth. Beautiful young women danced, sang, and gracefully served food and drinks to the numerous patrons lounging in comfort.

As the woman led them upstairs, Tang Bo couldn’t help but steal glances at his companions. Chung Myung’s gaze darted everywhere except the lavish surroundings, as if afraid of accidentally witnessing something indecent, while Chung Jin’s eyes were firmly glued to the floor.

If this place was awkward for Tang Bo, he could only imagine how overwhelming it must be for two Taoists who spent their days training among grass and goats, swinging swords from dawn till dusk. 

Thought he himself wasn't in a place to laugh.

When they reached their designated room, the door slid open, revealing an intimate space filled with silken cushions and low tables laden with refreshments. The air was thick with a rich, sweet fragrance that made their heads feel slightly light.

"Please, make yourselves comfortable,” the elder courtesan offered before departing, leaving them alone in the opulent chamber.

Silence settled over them, tense and awkward, until Chung Myung finally snorted.

"Aren’t we too old to act like this?”

Laughter burst out of them, sudden and uncontrollable, breaking the anxious tension. The ridiculousness of their own behavior was almost comforting.

"Right, we’re here for the wine anyway," Tang Bo pointed out, still chuckling as he sank onto one of the cushions. The other two followed and Chung Myung made sure to seat Chung Jin between himself and Tang Bo.

Moments later, the elder courtesan returned, accompanied by three young attendants carrying trays. Each tray held beautifully crafted ceramic bottles and a few intricately designed cups.

"Our house special," the elder courtesan announced with a graceful smile, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Fruit mix wine, aged to perfection. I hope it meets your expectations."

Tang Bo’s eyes lit up, and he nodded eagerly. 

"Thank you, madam. We’ve heard much about its exquisite taste.”

"These beauties are Hongseol (홍설), Suran (수란), and Yuhwa (유화), they will take care of anything you need." The elder winked before leaving the room.

The attendants stepped forward, carefully pouring the amber liquid into their cups. The sweet aroma of fruits wafted through the air, rich and intoxicating. It smelled quite unique—daring and strangely enticing.

Their fingers brushed against the cool ceramic as they each took a cup, the polished surface almost too elegant for their roughened hands.

Chung Myung lifted his cup and gave it a tentative sniff before glancing at the others. Tang Bo looked far too eager, practically bouncing in place, while Chung Jin seemed hesitant, his fingers nervously fidgeting with the rim of his cup.

"Well?" Tang Bo prompted, raising his cup with a wide grin.

The other two raised theirs too, clinking their glasses lightly.

Tang Bo gulped down his wine without hesitation, and Chung Myung followed suit. As the liquid touched his tongue, his eyes widened, and he looked down at the cup with genuine surprise.

"...It really does taste like juice," he mumbled, caught off guard by the smoothness and fruity flavor.

Chung Jin, after a moment’s reluctance, took a small sip as well, his brows lifting in astonishment.

"Wow... it doesn’t even burn going down."

Tang Bo snickered, savoring the lingering, chocolate-like finish on his tongue.

"See? I told you it’d be worth it.” 

"You didn't know either, shut up."

Chung Jin swirled the wine in his cup, still suspicious. 

"How can something that tastes this harmless make people drunk?"

"Because you forget how much you're drinking until it hits you like a horse's kick." Tang Bo said, his and Chung Myung’s cups already being refilled by the attendants.

Chung Jin downed his own cup.

"Phwa," he breathed, wiping his mouth, already feeling his cheeks grow warm. "This... might be dangerous."

"Then we'll just pace ourselves," Chung Myung declared, already emptying his second cup.

Tang Bo snorted. "Says the man who’s already waiting for a third." Then he gulped down his own cup.

Chung Myung shot him a look but didn’t bother to deny it, too caught up in the unexpected delight of the wine.

The ladies exchanged a brief glance before shifting closer. Hongseol lightly traced her arms up Tang Bo's biceps, but it didn't seem like the man paid her any attention, still focused on Chung Myung.

"Hyung-nim, how does this compare to my Sichuan wine?"

"I probably still prefer the Sichuan one." Chung Myung hummed thoughtfully as he swirled the fruit wine around his mouth, ignoring the way Tang Bo kicked his arms in joy.

Yuhwa couldn’t even touch Chung Jin, given how much the other man was shielding him, while Suran simply observed, intrigued by the men’s behavior.

Did these men truly have no desire for pleasure? It wouldn’t matter much for the women since they were paid the same, but it was still quite curious.

"Perhaps a song would complement our evening better,” Suran suggested, and Yuhwa was already moving to grab her pipa. Hongseol took her place in front of the guqin, giving the other two an approving nod.

Chung Myung didn’t even notice when the dance began, but suddenly, soft melodies filled the room. Suran stepped into the center, her gown flowing around her like liquid silk. Its vibrant sash cinched tightly at her waist, accentuating her graceful movements.

The silky fabric of her gown whispered against her skin as she danced with fluid elegance across the polished floorboards, her hips swaying gently beneath the gauzy material.

Yuhwa joined in, her fingers gliding effortlessly over the strings of her pipa, each plucked note merging seamlessly with Hongseol’s soothing melody from the guqin.

The ladies seemed to enjoy themselves, their faces glowing with a quiet joy, as if, for a moment, they were performers rather than courtesans. Perhaps they found solace in these moments, drawing happiness from what little life offered them.

Meanwhile, Tang Bo took it upon himself to pour Chung Myung another drink, and in turn, Chung Myung did the same for Chung Jin. Apparently, their initial seating arrangement hadn’t been as thoughtfully planned as they had assumed.

"Bo-yah, your hair is getting into the food!"

"Then move your cup closer!"

"How can I enjoy watching you struggle if I do that?"

The wine flowed as freely as their laughter, the atmosphere in the room growing increasingly merry. Suran and Yuhwa continued their dance, their slender bodies swaying in rhythmic motion, their supple arms moving through the air like willows.

It wasn’t long before the sound of chopsticks clicking filled the air as they began savoring the dishes.

Emboldened by the alcohol and music, Chung Myung's hand briefly brushed against Tang Bo's as they reached for another dish simultaneously. The two exchanged a brief glance before their chopsticks collided with an audible clink.

The ladies struggled to stifle their laughter as the two men engaged in a childish chopstick fight. As per the rules, when two were fighting, the third wins.

The two men had a look of betrayal as Chung Jin munched on the dumpling they were fighting over.

"That's cheating, Sajae! Aigoo! Is this how I raised you?"

"A win is a win," Chung Jin grinned and stuck out his tongue playfully.

"Does Mount Hua have no proper Taoists?"

"This Sega scoundrel is talking?"

As the evening wore on, the wine continued to flow, and the melodies of the pipa and guqin grew softer and slower until the ladies finally stopped, the last note lingering in the air.

Unsure how to proceed with their odd group, the attendants huddled together and whispered among themselves, their giggles barely concealed behind elegant sleeves.

Hongseol stepped forward, her voice smooth and playful. "Would these gentlemen like to partake in a game?"

"What is miss suggesting?" Chung Jin asked calmly, despite his disheveled position, his arms extended to keep the other two from diving into a new brawl.

"How about a round of Yutnori in pairs? And the losers... well, they get a punishment."

Hongseol's suggestion sparked immediate interest among the three friends. They exchanged playful smirks, silently daring each other to lose.

"How are we deciding the pairs?" Tang Bo asked, already grinning.

Yuhwa's face was hidden by her hair as she spoke, her voice tinged with mirth. "We can draw lots."

Suran pulled six twin-colored marbles from her sleeve and dropped them into an empty wine bottle, shaking it lightly. "Who’s going first?"

"Then I'll go first," Tang Bo volunteered, holding out his hand for the bottle. He shook it thoroughly before turning it upside down and letting a marble drop onto the table.

"Blue."

Chung Jin grabbed the bottle and did the same. "Yellow," he said, handing the bottle to Chung Myung.

"...Blue."

"You're in luck, Hyung-nim! It seems we've become partners," Tang Bo winked playfully.

Chung Myung sighed, muttering under his breath. "If we lose this, I’m burying you underwater."

"Haha! ...Let's hope that doesn't happen. " With a sharp toss, Tang Bo pitched his marble high into the air, catching it deftly between his fingers."

Suran and Hongseol exchanged an amused glance as they gathered the remaining marbles. They didn’t take long to draw their colors: yellow and green.

"I'm with Hongseol then? Lucky!" Yuhwa cheered.

They all switched seats to be near their game partners. Even Chung Jin, who seemed awkward at first sitting next to Suran, couldn’t help but relax as nothing indecent happened.

Yutnori was played with a set of four sticks. Each player would throw them and then count how many were facing down. There were four possible combinations with their names derived from the numbers and animal figures associated with the throw.

The first throw was Chung Myung's.

"Ah, look at this! It looks like it's gonna be a long night," Tang Bo laughed. "Hyung-nim threw an Oi!"

"...Why are you happy? You’re my partner."

"And I'm supposed to feel bad?"

Chung Jin threw next and got the highest possible combination: Janggi.

"Ha! Looks like it’ll be a long night for you two," Chung Jin teased with a grin, his eyes sparkling with mischief.

Hongseol went next, her laughter filling the room as she flipped a bamboo stick. "Oh dear, I got a Chwaek. This is promising!"

"It’s not over yet." Tang Bo smirked before tossing his sticks. "Ah... oh... who would have thought it... another Oi."

Chung Myung let out a dramatic sigh, throwing his arm over his eyes. "We’re doomed. We’re doomed, I tell you.”

The laughter died down as anticipation built, and finally, it was Suran's turn. With a graceful flick of her wrist, she tossed the four sticks onto the table.

Suran's sticks landed neatly in place. "Hmm, let me see," she mused, tilting her head to examine them. Her lips curved into a victorious smile. "It appears I've thrown an Ewi."

"Hyung-nim?" Tang Bo leaned in to whisper in Chung Myung's ear. "Aren’t we the losers of this round?"

"Yeah, so?"

"Then aren't they just playing to see who'll give us the punishment?"

"..."

Chung Myung blinked, dumbfounded. "You don't mean..." Before he could finish his thought, the sound of a melodious feminine giggle echoed through the room.

Yuhwa held up her pieces, and Hongseol chuckled. "Have you two ever danced before?" she asked. "In women’s hanfu?"

Chung Jin snickered, leaning back with glee. "I ought to see this!"

"Are they planning to dress us as ladies?" Chung Myung asked, disbelief evident in his voice.

Tang Bo huffed as he stood. "If they make you look prettier than me, Hyung-nim, I swear—"

"Shut up and go." Chung Myung smacked him lightly on the back of the head before shrugging off his outer robe. 

"Let’s get this over with." He extended a hand, asking for the hanfu.

Hongseol’s smile widened as she watched the two men pout like sulking children. However, neither of them resisted when she slipped a soft hanfu over their shoulders. She was glad to see their customers weren’t sore losers but rather… true, pretty men.

Chung Jin nearly died of laughter as the two men awkwardly held each other, following the instructions given by the ladies.

Tang Bo grinned and glanced sideways at Chung Myung. "So, which of us is prettier—Ouch!"

Chung Myung grumbled incoherent threats as he kicked Tang Bo’s shin.

The duo hesitantly mimicked the fluid movements taught to them by Suran and Yuhwa, much to the ladies' amusement. Chung Myung deliberately stepped on Tang Bo’s feet at times, trying to dodge the other's vengeful retaliation.

Rather than a slow dance, it appeared much more like two clumsy oxen trying to tango. It was embarrassing, to say the least, but neither of them cared much.

With a final twirl, Chung Myung tripped Tang Bo and dashed back to the table, ducking just in time when Tang Bo tried to jump on him for revenge.

"Ladies, calm down," Chung Jin snickered, only to let out a yelp as a chicken leg sailed past him.

"I know where you live," Chung Myung said in a light, threatening tone, while Tang Bo leaned in to whisper something in his ear.

A brief glance was thrown at him before the two men settled back, and Chung Jin couldn’t help but feel a twinge of anxiety.

"Let's begin the next game," Tang Bo said with a smirk.

As the night wore on, so did the mischief brought on by the wine. The food became secondary to the entertainment, though none of them complained about either.

"..."

Chung Jin looked down at his sticks.

"This has to be cheating!" he complained, having lost for the fourth time in a row.

"Nobody likes a sore loser," Tang Bo quipped, reaching for more bottles of wine.

They’d made him hold chopsticks with his face, catch a leaf with his head, and other bizarre "torture” methods. Now, it seemed they wanted to drown him with wine.

Tang Bo pressed a fresh glass into Chung Jin's hand, his eyes gleaming with mischief. 

"Drink up, Sajae~" Chung Myung smiled from across him.

'These devils!' Chung Jin cried internally as he reluctantly downed the wine.

The sun rose slowly, casting its warm rays into the room, Chung Jin stirred awake with a groan. His head throbbed, his vision blurred, and his memory felt hazy. Judging by the color and smell around him, it seemed he was at the Tang residence.

In the dim morning light, Chung Jin slowly peeled open his crusty eyelids. His head felt like someone was hammering nails into it; he'd drank far too much last night.

The pounding in his skull only intensified as he realized the weight draped over him was not a blanket. Chung Myung’s body was sprawled across him, though this wasn’t uncommon. Even back home, his Sahyung often turned in bed and ended up on top of him or Chung Mun.

What he didn’t expect was Tang Bo, who was also sprawled over Chung Myung, his clothes damp as if he’d jumped into a river.

"Sahyung," Chung Jin muttered, not even bothering to try to get out of his predicament. "Pull the curtains over."

"Bo-yah," Chung Myung grumbled, still not bothering to open his eyes. "Shut that sun down."

The man on the very top of the pile moved his hand wordlessly, and with a swift motion, threw a knife. It stabbed through the curtain, pinning it to the wall.

As the curtain swung closed, plunging the room back into darkness, the trio went back to their long, uninterrupted sleep.

Chapter Text

It was a bitter day of late autumn, perhaps one could already call it early winter. The grass and trees were still glazed in hoarfrost, glittering white, resembling snow. On days like this, most people would huddle indoors by the fire, clutching a hot drink. But it seemed that bandits never received that memo.

Reports of recent attacks had reached Mount Hua, and the sect had decided to send their strongest disciple to deliver a clear message. However, since that particular disciple was also infamous for troublemaking, it was deemed wise to send others along to keep him on a leash.

"Acho!" Chung Jin sneezed, wrapping his arms around himself tighter. "Great Sahyung, are we there yet?" he whined.

"Should be there soon," Chung Mun assured. He looked a little better than Chung Jin, though his breath puffed visibly in the air.

Chung Myung, on the other hand, hummed cheerfully as if they were on a spring stroll. His Qi was vast enough to shield him from the biting chill. In fact, he was quite enjoying being outside for a fresh breath, only alcohol could elevate this moment.

Would be impossible with his Sahyung present, but one can dream.

"You guys complain about me not training, but look who's lacking right now," his voice was nagging, yet there was an amused smile on his lips.

Chung Jin shot him a vengeful glare, and Chung Mun sighed.

"A block of iron contains the potential for a thousand blades. But without the smith's knowing hand, it is only a heavy stone," Chung Mun said before going silent.

Chung Myung's mouth fell and he felt insulted. "What does that mean?" He asked with a tinge of frustration.

"He's calling you stupid," Chung Jin stuck out his tongue.

"No, he's not!" Chung Myung barked back before whirling on Chung Mun. "Right, Sahyung?"

Chung Mun continued walking without paying him any mind, leaving out a heavy sigh as his Sajaes started bickering behind him. It took but a moment until he was fed up with it and wanted to complain, but instead, he stopped dead in his tracks.

"Sahyung?" Chung Myung asked, confusion flickering in his eyes until he followed his gaze.

Black smoke billowed into the gray sky. Faded by the cold mist, it still stood out like a wound against the horizon. That was no simple campfire.

Without another word, the three disciples broke into a run.

Despite being just a small village, the fire was raging without any sign of stopping. Flames licked across rooftops, the air thick with ash and smoke. Children screamed. Men cried out in panic. Women were dragged by their hair as bandits plundered what little food there was.

A shadow fell over Chung Myung’s face. His steps quickened into a blur, going into the midst, and in the next heartbeat, a bandit’s head flew clean from his shoulders.

Chung Mun bit his lip, as much as he wished to prevent his Sajae from killing, these bandits were long past what could be forgiven. Instead, he turned to Chung Jin.

"Let's take the people to safety."

"What about…" Chung Jin's protest faltered. His eyes darted to where Chung Myung was already carving through the bandits, every swing decisive, every step relentless. His smaller Sahyung hardly needed help. With a sharp nod, he split up from Chung Mun, throwing himself into the chaos as he tried to save as many people as he could.

He leaped forward, snatching a child out of the path of a burning beam just as it crashed into the dirt. Pivoting on his heel, he kicked away another log while grabbing hold of a boy about to be cut down by a bandit's blade.

Steel flashed. Blood sprayed. As if planned, Chung Myung was suddenly there, his sword cleaving the attacker apart in one stroke.

"Go!" He barked without looking back.

Chung Jin didn't argue. Clutching the two children to his chest, he ran as fast as he could, away from fire and smoke. Chung Mun was right behind him, carrying an elderly woman while two able-bodied men supported others. His face was calm, but his steps were urgent.

"Others fled the opposite way," he said briefly before splitting off again, never breaking stride. Without hesitation, Chung Jin bolted back into the chaos.

On the far side of the village, a woman’s desperate cries cut through the crackle of fire. She thrashed in the grip of a bandit, who, annoyed by her screams, raised his weapon to silence her.

Without much thought, Chung Jin threw himself between them, meeting the bandit's blade with his own. Steel clashed with a harsh ring, sparks flying. The struggle lasted only briefly before the bandit staggered back, screaming as one of his arms flew away with a crimson trail.

"Are you alright?" Chung Jin asked, turning around and offering a hand to the woman. 

The woman looked pale, trembling with fear before she yelled. "Behind you!"

Chung Jin could only see the shadow of a larger man behind, a flash of fear surging in his body as he had no time to react and braced himself for pain.

It never came.

A rough grip yanked his collar, dragging him backward. The next thing he saw was the furious face of his Sahyung.

"What the fuck are you doing?" Chung Myung snarled, his blade dripping as the massive bandit collapsed beside them. "Do you have a death wish?!"

"N-no," Chung Jin defended himself with a tinge of frustration, but he couldn't deny the relief he felt the moment he caught sigh of his Sahyung.

"Never turn your back until you've confirmed the enemy is dead." Chung Myung's glare burned, his words were sharp, but Chung Jin could see a line of worry on his forehead. "That was the last bandit."

Chung Jin exhaled shakily, nodding before he turned back to the woman—only to be struck by the sight of the woman collapsing to her knees.

"My husband…" she sobbed brokenly as she shook the body of a deceased villager.

Chung Myung looked away uncomfortably and patted Chung Jin's shoulder, his tone flat but quiet.

"Sahyung is setting up a temporary camp on the path we came from." 

Without waiting for a reply, he turned and walked off, leaving Chung Jin standing with the grieving woman.

***

It was still dark outside when Chung Myung pushed back the flap of one of the makeshift tents they had made with wood and cloth from a nearby village.

"I brought more medicine," his voice was tired, slurring and quiet, like a man who ran all day and night to fetch supplies.

"Thank you, Myung-ah," Chung Mun replied, just as weary. "You can rest for now."

Chung Myung only nodded, lowering himself to the ground with a thud. His eyes stung with tiredness, but sleep didn’t come. Instead, his gaze shifted across the tent, where Chung Jin knelt, carefully binding the wounds of the injured villagers.

"What are we going to do with them?" he asked quietly.

Chung Mun rubbed his eyes, pausing as though his thoughts were blanking out. "I already sent word to the sect. They'll try to find relatives… places they can stay…" His voice trailed off, words dissolving into silence as his body swayed dangerously.

He didn't even notice when Chung Myung got by his side, keeping him from falling down.

"You need rest more than me," he muttered.

Chung Mun tried to shake his head, forcing himself to continue working, but his body betrayed him. He slumped forward into unconsciousness. Without hesitation, Chung Myung lifted him and laid him gently on a makeshift bed.

Turning, his eyes fell on Chung Jin, who seemed to be still working. His shoulders hunched, hands trembling slightly with fatigue as he finished bandaging a wound.

Chung Myung trudged over. "Any other emergencies?"

Chung Jin shook his head. "This was the last one."

"Good, get some rest. I'll keep watch."

"No, I can—" Chung Jin tried to sit up and argue, but he stumbled, collapsing against Chung Myung as dizziness clouded his mind.

Chung Myung snorted and hoisted him onto his shoulder with ease. He carried him over and tucked him down beside Chung Mun. Within seconds, the younger was fast asleep, soothed simply by his Sahyung’s steady presence.

Yawning, Chung Myung grabbed one of the bottles of alcohol they had used as disinfectant and stepped outside. He tipped it to his lips, taking a slow sip as he watched the sky.

A faint red line stretched on the horizon, indicating that the sun wasn't far from rising. The camp was quiet, almost eerily so, as if yesterday had been nothing but a blurred dream.

Bandit attacks weren't uncommon, but to burn and slaughter an entire village… that's something you wouldn't see often…

Chung Myung took another sip before leaning against the cold canvas of the tent. He felt nauseous from tiredness, but somehow he was still wide awake. He drank in silence, watching the horizon slowly brighten, the sun climbing higher as the hours passed and the camp began to stir.

Before long, a fire crackled in the center of camp, and the smell of cooking rice drifted through the air, whisking the emptiness in his stomach.

One of the little girls hurried up to him with a chipped bowl of rice held carefully in both hands. She lifted it toward him, her wide eyes expectant. A gentle smile tugged at Chung Myung's lips as he crouched, patting her head lightly.

"Feeding me when you're so skinny?" He nagged gently. "Eat until your belly's round before you go worrying about others."

"You're not hungry?" she asked in a small voice.

"I'm not," Chung Myung lied with a grin. "So go eat."

An elderly man approached, cradling another bowl in his gnarled hands. His back was bent, but his eyes were steady.

"Young master, please do not decline," he said with quiet insistence. "We would be worse than dogs if our heroes starved while we filled ourselves with your good will."

"I said I'm not hungry…" Chung Myung wanted to complain, but it didn't seem like the old man would back down. With a sigh, he compromised, reaching out to take both bowls. "But my brothers will be famished, so I'll gratefully accept on their behalf.

He slipped back into the tent, setting the rice bowls down beside his martial brothers before nudging them awake.

"Hm?" Chung Mun’s voice was thick with exhaustion, stirring a pang of guilt in Chung Myung.

"I brought some food. Eat while it's warm."

Chung Mun nodded faintly, pushing himself upright to take a bowl. On the other side, Chung Jin was still debating if sleep or food was more important. His stomach decided for him.

With a groan, he stretched, cracked his back, and grabbed the other bowl.

Chung Mun paused mid-bite, his brows lifting. "Did you eat yet?"

"I did," Chung Myung lied easily, flashing a tired grin. "Now eat quickly. We'll probably get a response from the sect soon."

"I see," Chung Mun chugged the food down as quickly as he could, though still with his usual grace, then gently pushed Chung Myung down into his place. "You can sleep until then." 

Without waiting for an argument, he rose and left the tent. A moment later, Chung Jin followed, still half-stumbling from exhaustion. By then, Chung Myung was already fast asleep, his body surrendering the instant he lay down.

By the time he awoke, the air inside the tent was cool, shadows stretching long across the canvas walls. The faint glow filtering through the fabric was no longer late morning light but the deep orange of a setting sun. His head felt heavy, the kind of weariness that even hours of sleep could not fully wash away.

He got up slowly and pushed aside the tent flap, rubbing his eyes as he squinted at the fading horizon. The day was nearly over, and in his absence, much had already been done.

Fires had burned low, reduced to glowing embers, while the scent of smoke and cooked food clung stubbornly to the air. Voices were softer now, tired and subdued. It seems like his martial brothers from the sect had also arrived.

The Disciples of Mount Hua moved briskly around the camp. Some gathering supplies, others steadying wagons piled with the few possessions the villagers had salvaged and guiding them down the road.

"Is it all settled?" Chung Myung asked, his voice hoarse as he stifled a yawn.

Chung Mun looked uneasy, hesitant to speak.

"Yes. I…" His words faltered, eyes darting elsewhere. "I'm hungry. Let's eat first."

It didn't sound like that was what he wanted to say, but who was Chung Myung to refuse food now that there was finally enough to go around? Still… it was strange, wasn't it? For some reason, the three of them were eating separately from their Sasuks and Sajaes who had come to help.

Chung Myung slurped his noodles noisily and was still chewing when he spoke. "Sahyung, just say it," he blurted, sending a few drops of broth flying.

"Finish eating before you speak!" Chung Mun scolded, pulling out a cloth to wipe Chung Myung's mouth.

Showing discontent, Chung Myung pouted but didn't pull away. He gulped down the rest of his food before continuing. "You've been wanting to tell me something since I woke up, right?"

Chung Mun froze, then slowly drew back, his expression conflicted. "That… there's a lady that doesn't have any place to go…"

Across from him, Chung Jin held his breath, guarded, as if bracing for something to blow. Chung Myung curiously shut up and patiently waited for Chung Mun to finish, unsure of where this was going.

"I decided to give her Grandma's house."

Chung Myung blinked, taken aback. He looked down at his bowl, then rubbed his ear as if clearing it.

"Sorry Sahyung, I think I heard that wrong—"

"You didn't."

….

A flicker of silence fell between them before Chung Myung’s expression twisted, from confusion to hurt, then anger.

"What do you mean?!"

Chung Mun tried not to show any emotion in contrast, standing firm. "Exactly what you heard."

"Are you crazy?" Chung Myung's voice rose sharply. "How can you just give it to a stranger? Don't you care—That's Halmi's—our house!"

"Grandmother is dead and we live at Mount Hua!" Chung Mun half-yelled before regretting it, seeing the anger leave Chung Myung, leaving only hurt. He hurried to explain himself. "Listen—"

Before another word could be spoken, Chung Myung bolted faster than the wind.

"Myung-ah!" Chung Mun shouted, stumbling to his feet, but there was no chance of catching up. Within seconds, his Sajae had vanished beyond the trees.

"It could have been worse," Chung Jin muttered dryly as he caught up, though even he winced at his own words.

Chung Mun bit his lip, chest heaving. "I'll go after him," he said before he took a few steps, then broke into a sprint, disappearing in the same direction.

Chung Jin sighed before going back to clean their dishes. He would love to help, but realistically speaking, he has no way to convince Chung Myung or even find him. He's the weakest link after all.

Still, he slapped his cheeks lightly and squared his shoulders. Even if he's not as strong and fast as Chung Myung, or as charismatic and wise as Chung Mun, his mind was sharper than most in Mount Hua. He's needed in another domain.

Taking the dishes, he walked downstream to wash them. The air had grown cooler, the river glinting faintly beneath the dimming sky. He hesitated mid-step when he noticed someone already there.

"It's quite cold for someone carrying a child," he said, startling the lady.

"I just wanted to help wash some dishes at least." It sounded like an excuse. Her voice cracked slightly and her eyes seemed wet. "I was told to stay in that tent and not get in the way, but I want to show my gratitude somehow."

Chung Jin rubbed his nape with a slight, awkward smile on his face as he watched a few tears drip down her face. She was likely mourning her husband. He wouldn't know how he would feel in her place.

His old family is healthy and doing quite well, and his family at Mount Hua just has some unresolved problems, but the pain of loss is unfamiliar to him.

"…Let me help you with the dishes," he said, offering a hand.

She hesitantly nodded, wiping her cheeks with her sleeve.

"I'll wash, you dry and put them back. It'll be quicker that way," he suggested. She nodded again, and they fell into a quiet rhythm, the only sounds being the soft rush of water and the clink of bowls.

After a while, the woman spoke.

"Taoist Chung Jin, was it?" She hesitated before continuing. "I'm deeply grateful for you and your brothers' offer, but… you don't really know me. Giving me a house is a little too much…"

"We were going to help you find a place either way," Chung Jin shrugged. "It just happens we have a perfectly good one to raise a child in."

"But there's no way for me to repay…"

"There's no need to repay," he interrupted gently. "A Taoist doesn't work for gratitude." He paused, seeing that her doubt hadn't faded, and sighed. "Alright, then how about a deal?"

"A deal?"

"When the child grows up and wishes to join a sect, you must definitely choose Mount Hua!" Chung Jin puffed out in pride, mentioning his sect with as much glory as he could.

The lady looked surprised, thought not against it.

"That's a given. But… would that be enough?"

"I might end up teaching him myself," Chung Jin said with a playful grin. "If he listens well, that'll make my life much easier later!"

A genuine smile spread on her face, the sadness in her face lightening. "Alright then," she said. She gathered the now-clean dishes carefully and turned to leave, flattering for just a moment. "Thank you."

Chung Jin smiled and waved before shivering. He wrapped his arms around himself as he noticed the shadows growing darker. "I wonder if Chung Mun Sahyung found Chung Myung Sahyung," he mumbled.

A pebble slipped down, splashing into the water and startling Chung Jin, who yelped unmanly.

"Uh…" He looked toward where the sound had come from, heart thumping, then tiptoed forward until he caught sight of a familiar silhouette. "Sahyung?"

Chung Myung laid slouched behind a large tree, chin resting on his knees, eyes fixed distantly ahead. Though he hadn't answered, Chung Jin invited himself to shuffle down by his side.

They sat in silence, but surprisingly, it didn't feel awkward. The hush reminded Chung Jin of those calm mornings atop Mount Hua's peaks, where the winds howled louder than words ever could.

A shiver ran through him. He rubbed his arms and edged a little closer to Chung Myung, who had more than enough Qi to not care about sleeping in a freezing lake if he felt like it.

At last, Chung Myung turned his head slightly, giving him a questioning glare.

"Aren't you here to convince me or something?"

"Why would I?" Chung Jin replied between chattering teeth. "You look like you've already sorted it out yourself."

"Then why are you out in the cold? Are you stupid?"

Chung Jin scowled. "What about you—hatchoo!" 

A sneeze interrupted Chung Jin's rebuttal, making Chung Myung sigh. Without a word, he pulled off his outer robe and threw it over Chung Jin's shoulders, then, before the other could argue, drew him closer with one arm, sharing his warmth and Qi.

"Stupid Sajae," Chung Myung muttered. "Why would you throw yourself into danger when you're this weak…"

"I'm not— maybe just a little, but—" Chung Jin grumbled, unable to form a plausible excuse. "I'm a Taoist too."

"Really?" Chung Myung asked in a sarcastic, dry tone. "Couldn't tell."

Chung Jin huffed and gripped the outer robe tighter. Looking away, he opened his mouth to mutter quietly. "Thank you… for this and for then."

"Of course," Chung Myung said, brushing it off with a faint smirk, though a hint of pride colored his tone. "I'm your sahyung."

"Really?" Chung Jin shot back. "Couldn't tell."

The tension cracked, both of them chuckling under their breath until it dissolved into quiet again, broken only when Chung Jin's laugh turned into a cough. Chung Myung tapped his back a few times and Chung Jin rolled his freezing shoulders.

It fell quiet for another moment.

"Say, Sahyung," Chung Jin began, unable to hold back his curiosity. "What convinced you?"

"...Halmi adored children," Chung Myung stated, looking up at the sky with a fond expression. "She used to say that children are the world's most precious life—the builders of all that is to come." He closed his eyes, his voice softening as if reliving a memory. "She would've wanted her house to be used to nurture another one."

"So it was the talk I had earlier with the madam."

"Nah, I knew since your idiotic, suicidal heroism to save her," Chung Myung said, emphasizing the insults. "I was just… I miss her. And that house was all we had left."

"Personally, I think I have a few permanent bruises," Chung Jin muttered, half-grinning despite the phantom ache from the unfair treatment. It did manage to crack another smile onto Chung Myung, who deliberately snitched on Chung Jin to their grandmother.

"But you know, she left something else too…"

Chung Jin blinked curiously. Was there some sort of heirloom he didn't know about?

Chung Myung looked serious as he finished his sentence. "A grumpy, nagging, grandma-like Sahyung."

Chung Jin snorted so hard he had to slap a hand over his mouth to stifle it. "The great Sahyung is really like that—ah!" His laughter died mid-word as realization hit. "Chung Mun Sahyung is probably still looking for you."

"Probably."

"In this cold."

"Hm," Chung Myung nodded before he actually processed how deep the night had grown. "Oh."

They scrambled to their feet, breaking into a light jog as they tried to feel their martial brother's Qi.

"Let's hope he's near," Chung Jin prayed, ignoring the chill seeping deeper into his skin. It'll be a cold winter this year.

The forest was quiet save for the soft crunch of hoarfrost beneath their boots. Their breaths misted in the air, forming pale ghosts that faded into the darkness. Every few steps, Chung Myung would pause, eyes narrowing as he reached out with his senses, trying to feel the faint pulse of familiar Qi through the cold night air.

Finally, a flicker of warmth brushed against his perception.

"This way," Chung Myung said quietly, running ahead and stopping right as he spotted the figure of his Sahyung. He opened his mouth to call out, but his voice caught, embarrassment knotting his tongue when he remembered his earlier outburst.

Chung Mun stood lost, shoulders stiff from the cold before he noticed them. Relief flickered through his expression before it was quickly replaced by frustration.

"Myung-ah, you—!" his voice rose, echoing sharply in the still air as he strode toward them

Chung Myung looked away, expecting to be scolded. And he was, though not for what he expected.

"Why are you practically naked in this weather?" Chung Mun cupped Chung Myung's face, checking his temperature. Unsurprisingly, it was Chung Mun whose hands felt like ice. "This brat! Do you want to get sick?"

"Me?" Chung Myung blinked, genuinely bewildered. He glanced at Chung Jin, who was battling sneezes, then back at Chung Mun, whose lips were starting to turn pale from the cold.

Chung Mun clicked his tongue and started to untie his outer robe, but Chung Myung stepped back. "No, you definitely need it more than me," he protested.

"Stop talking nonsense. Look at your Sajae, he's already sick."

"Nonsen—how can you even compare me to Jin-ah?" Chung Myung gaped. "I have more Qi than I know what to do with, I'm not getting sick. He, on the other hand, is so weak that even a fly could knock him over—"

"Hey!" Chung Jin looked offended, hitting Chung Myung with his elbow.

Chung Mun ignored the squabbling, brows furrowed as he tried to drape his robe over Chung Myung's shoulders. But the latter dodged, muttering something under his breath before sprinting toward the camp, knowing the two would follow and they'd get to proper warmth faster.

And as expected, Chung Mun had a bad cold the next day.

"I told you," Chung Myung muttered, patting his Sahyung's back as another cough wracked him.

Chung Mun mumbled something incomprehensible that sounded like an argument he would never win.

In the end, they never got to actually talk about the house decision. When Chung Mun tried to bring it up, Chung Myung just shot him down, saying "I know," and cutting the conversation short.

But it didn't mean it was fine. Chung Mun figured it was better to give him time. He seemed to have come to terms with it, in his own way.

***

"Hyung-nim!" Tang Bo yelled, inviting himself into Chung Myung's house.

"Do you know what time it is?" Chung Myung grumbled, peeking from the comfort of his bed. "Why are you so loud?"

"It's the middle of the day…" Tang Bo muttered, glancing outside to confirm he was right.

"What do you want?"

"I just missed you!" Tang Bo grinned. "I was just thinking it would be nice if you'd be here. And here you are!" he beamed.

Chung Myung looked at him as if he'd lost his mind before hurling a shoe his way. Tang Bo narrowly dodged.

"Don't dodge!" Chung Myung shouted, throwing the other one even harder. It missed again and lodged itself in the wall.

"Why—what did I do?" Tang Bo looked wronged.

"I'm checking to see if you're possessed," Chung Myung said flatly, as if that made any sense. "So take the hit like a man."

"What logic is that?!"

"Tch, just say why you barged in here," Chung Myung clicked his tongue. "And if you spout nonsense, I'm going to kill you." He reached for his sword, and Tang Bo immediately straightened.

"Ahem," Tang Bo coughed, trying to ignore the phantom pain that came every time his sworn brother reached for his weapon… or raised his fist. "I was finally allowed to see my nephew!"

"What?" Chung Myung looked genuinely surprised. "They let you inside the house too?"

A few weeks prior, Tang Bo had stolen the Tang Clan's entire seasonal stock of wine to drink with Chung Myung. The patriarch nearly fainted from anger and kicked him out. Honestly, it happens more often than not. This young master has lived more on the streets than in his own house since coming of age.

"Seems like they still need the Dark Saint to keep their reputation high with the other clans," Tang Bo flicked a strand of hair with a narcissistic air. "Anyway, let me tell you about my nephew, he's such a tricky little guy—wait, even better, when can you come visit? I bought more wine—"

Chung Myung tuned Tang Bo out, his thoughts suddenly flickering to a certain memory. Not particularly pleasant, but still.

Children, huh? 

I hope that one is growing as healthy and strong as me… though that's impossible.

Chung Myung stood and walked out of the room, leaving Tang Bo mid-sentence, his mouth still open. "Let's go!" he called without even looking back.

"I still have things to say!" Tang Bo whined, his words falling on deaf ears as Chung Myung's thoughts had already wandered elsewhere—mostly to the wine.

Tang Bo sped up to match him, going right back to babbling about whatever crossed his mind.

Chung Myung sighed. Who even needs children with a guy like Tang Bo around? This guy's mouth could rival an entire generation of little disciples.

Maybe it fell on him, as the older one, to teach the brat to close it once in a while.

"...It would be nice if the kids in my clan were more like you," Tang Bo sighed.

Well, if he says the right things, who was Chung Myung to stop him?

"Thought less of that bandit nature—why are you grabbing your sword?"

"Bo-yah?"

"Y-yes?"

"Run faster."

Without ado, Tang Bo pushed off the ground and bolted ahead, praying he'd reach the wine fast enough to offer it as a peace treaty before being reminded why he gets phantom pains around his Hyung in the first place.