nightimmortal | Seasons

[ As it should!

Then his breath is stolen by the transformation and the robes it reveals. Stepping slowly forward, he reaches out to take Xingchen's hands. ]

Not at all. You are beautiful.

[The feathered shawl on his shoulders makes sense considering the form he chose! He smiles broadly when Runyu approaches and he brings the god's hands to his cheeks.]

I want to look like a fitting partner for A-Yu.

[ He loves the feathered shawl! Cradling Xingchen's sweet face in gentle hands, Runyu leans close, resting their foreheads together as his heart warms. ]

You don't need fancy clothes to be far better a mate than I could ever dream of having.

[Xingchen doesn't hold back! Being with Xue Yang and Runyu has taught him to be open with his affection. He wraps the god in his arms and nudges their noses together.]

We will be returning with you. I think that's the best idea for A-Yang and I. I know there will be repercussions, but so many people will live that wouldn't have otherwise. Besides, we are not sending you back to Heaven without support.

[ Xingchen and Xue Yang's love have helped to heal the dragon's broken heart and spirit. He's learned that there are people who genuinely love and want him. Runyu beams into his lover's eyes and claims a soft kiss as he wraps his arms around the other man. ]

I won't allow anyone to harm you. And...I want you both at my side. The people will learn to love and accept you, I doubt it will take long.

[Runyu has been beaten down by bitter hatred that truly has nothing to do with him. Who can say who will give birth to them and under what circumstances? Xingchen fears both of his loves have suffered for similar reasons. Why else was a child with a golden core left homeless?

Jealousy and the desire for vengeance are truly dangerous emotions.]

We will be happy at your side. [He kisses his dragon again, hugging him tighter.] I want to see your stars and watch you attend your duties.

[ Whoever carries the spirits of his beloveds will be found and provided for. Runyu will find them. No matter how long it might take.

The dragon hums quietly, snuggling into those warm, protective arms that signal love and safety. He smiles and kisses his sweet one again. ]

I will show them to you and A-Yang. Our little Dream Beast will be happy to see you again too.

[Xingchen hopes they can achieve immortality before they perish and re-enter the cycle. But if that happens, he has no doubt Runyu will find them.

He smiles helplessly into their kisses, freeing a hand to cup Runyu's cheek.]

Have you eaten today? How are you feeling? [Runyu is so quiet about his pain that Xingchen worries he might be trying to mask it.]

[ If anyone can, Runyu believes his A-Chen and A-Yang can. If not? He will find them and bring them to the Heavens with him. The scales they have tucked against their hearts will surely follow them wherever they go after they leave this place. Right?

Runyu leans into that warm hand, gaze peaceful as he basks in Xingchen's kind worrying. ]

I'm alright. [ But...food...? He blinks, then ducks his head a little, cheeks pinking just a little. ]

I...suppose I haven't eaten in a few hours...

[Xingchen will cling to his scale with all his might! He knows Xue Yang will do the same. They want - need - to be with Runyu. Xingchen has witnessed their A-Yang turn even sweeter because of the love A-Yu gives him. Finally, Xue Yang is the man he was always meant to be.

The same can be said about him too. He has become stronger and his understanding of humanity (and supernatural entities) has deepened. He is sure he can support his loves with Shuanghua.]

A few hours likely means...longer. [He tugs on Runyu's hand and walks to the door. He opens it and reveals a tray of food on the other side.]

I made your favorites. Just because A-Yang and I are practicing inedia doesn't mean you have to follow.

[ The three of them have been good for each other. Runyu knows he needs these specific two people. Needs, loves, adores - with all that he is. They've brought light, life, and laughter back into his heart! And he feels stronger by knowing them.

His heart melts all over again as he's pulled to the door with that understanding (and accurate) little scold. And a reminder. He squeezes Xingchen's hand gently. ]

I will try to remember to eat more often. [ Not that he really needs to eat all that much unless he's used a great deal of energy. ]

[Speaking of using a great deal of energy...

Xingchen suddenly grins, mischievous, as he lifts the tray and brings it to a table.]

I've been reading. As a god, if you...connect...and cultivate...with a mortal, you can give said mortal a taste of immortality.

[The sort of immortality Runyu has always known.]

Will you cultivate with me?

[Energetically?]

[ That grin sends a thrill through him! Runyu listens before an answering grin crosses his lips and he ducks his head again. But there's no hesitation as he follows his handsome lover. ]

Every day you wish, beloved.

I will be trapped in bed if we do it daily! [But he isn't saying no, is he? Xingchen takes off his boots and his outer robe. He goes back to Runyu and kisses the side of his neck.]

It doesn't sound like a bad fate to me.

[ Chuckling warmly, the dragon makes no attempt to deny that claim. Though 'trapped' might be stretching it! More...encouraged. ]

I will do my very best to ensure you are comfortable and enjoy the experience.

[ The kiss to his neck earns a low rumble and he lowers his head to nuzzle his love's neck, breathing in the familiar, comfortable scent. ]

[Runyu doesn't have to do much to encourage him! He has little resistance to a handsome, sweet dragon~]

I trust you. [Xingchen giggles under the nuzzling, the skin on his neck easy to tickle. He draws Runyu to the bed and pushes him down onto it. Then he crawls onto the dragon's lap.]

Guide me, A-Yu. I will follow you.