Rightful Places

Yushi finally felt normal again after drinking Dr. Jingji's latest version of the remedy. The thrumming of unsettled energy beneath his skin was gone as was the irritation that was so quick to rise before.

Seeing the state of his room after he finally settled down he couldn't help but feel guilty. Shizhe had done all the initial decorating of just about any room in the palace. Yushi couldn't care less back then, so everything was procured and placed by her. Over the years, Yushi had collected many gifts and the ones he'd favored had made their way into his room, mainly those from the upper court. Seeing the disaster Yushi made of the room and the gifts in a state of disarray or a little damaged almost hurt to see.

Shizhe had done her best earlier to clean up the room, at least to make it traversable. Eventually Riluo had also joined her but as Yushi came to his senses again he couldn't let them clean up after him anymore and he sent them away, though he could still hear Riluo pacing the hall.

Yushi had gathered what he'd been most sentimental over and placed it all on the massive bed. It wasn't as though he was going to be using it that night. If he was being honest with himself he much preferred the bed at the Crystal Estate anyway. Not just because of the recent proximity to Xueye but it just felt less grand. While it was still a massive step up from who he was before taking the palace by force, it felt closer to normal. With all the chaos lately he favored the feeling of a normal life.

"Is he alright?" Yushi heard Shizhe's voice in the hall. Given how clear her voice was Yushi realized his hearing was even more sensitive than before the recent episode. Back then everything seemed muffled still but now it was as if he were out there with them.

"He hasn't come out yet if that's what you mean," Riluo replied. "I thought you were going to visit the Young Master."

"About that…" Shizhe sounded a little uneasy. It was at those words Yushi immediately opened the door, startling them both.

"What happened?!" Yushi demanded.

"He's fine!" Shizhe said quickly. "I'm surprised you could hear me…" Considering they were near the end of the hallway, she thought he wouldn't be able to hear her words even if he'd be able to tell who was there.

"Another change," Yushi stated simply. "I want to know what has you uneasy."

"Very well," Shizhe sighed. "Let me preface this with the fact he is well and safe so don't rush off." Shizhe could tell he was better from a glance but it was obvious that when it came to Xueye, not even the new remedy could quite quell the unrest.

"Okay, just tell me," Yushi let out a sigh of relief but he still wouldn't be at ease without knowing what happened while he was away.

"I was informed by his sister just now that a little while ago he was taken by Jianhong's known subordinate." Shizhe's expression was filled with concern.

"What?!" Yushi tensed and emitted a low growl.

"He returned safe and sound!" Shizhe said quickly. "A friend was with him. He even intervened in the deal that Jianhong was trying to make with Xueye. It saved Xueye from whatever ill fate Jianhong was planning for him."

"He's going to regret messing with Xueye," Yushi grumbled under his breath. It was taking a lot of effort to not march out of the palace and slaughter the offender.

"How unsettling," Riluo's expression tensed. "Just what is the connection anyways? Did Lady Meigui shed any light on this?" 

"Lord Meigui seemed to owe Jianhong a financial debt," Shizhe explained. "Xinhua suspected that Jianhong wanted to trap Xueye into one of his favors by renegotiating the contract with him specifically. Even though this started before, it seems the recent law Yuliang devised worked in Jianhong's favor. I can only imagine what he had planned before was to coerce Xueye into something. If it weren't for Jinse, Xueye would be in real trouble."

"Jinse?" Yushi's eyes narrowed upon hearing the name. "Out of the frying pan into the fire as they say."

"I assure you it's nothing like that," Shizhe tried her best to comfort him. "From what I've been told Jinse would never harm Xueye or do him wrong."

"Are you certain?" Yushi looked her in the eyes. He had to know.

"I am," Shizhe nodded, unflinching at his fierce gaze.

Yushi let out a breath, "Then I'll let Jinse be."

"What matters is that the Young Master is safe," Riluo said as a reminder to Yushi. He also was uneasy about hearing that Xueye would likely owe Jinse after such a rescue. If Shizhe was so confident that even under Yushi's oppressive energy she didn't even bat an eye spoke volumes about how she felt about it. "Does that mean this matter is resolved?"

"Xinhua thought it best that he remain under protection for another night, at least." Shizhe was worried. "I don't think he should be alone after that anyways. I could only imagine how scared he was."

"I should have been with him," Yushi placed a hand over his eyes. "I promised him…"

"You had no choice," Riluo voiced softly.

"If anything it's my fault," Shizhe sighed bitterly. Even if she knew the outcome was supposed to be without Yushi present she still felt a little guilty. "I set this into motion by sending you back here. I should have known better."

"Stop that, it's not your fault," Yushi let his hand fall from his face as he placed his other hand on her shoulder. "I refuse to place blame on you."

"Thank you…" Shizhe still felt bad. So much was changing it was difficult to keep up with the shifting futures. She prayed things would settle, at least for a while. "I was planning on going to see him. If you are up to it, you should come with me."

"Yes, I'd like to," Yushi smiled warmly before glancing at Riluo.

"You don't need to ask me," Riluo couldn't help but laugh. "I agree, you should go. All will be well here. I'll see to it."

"Thank you," Yushi smiled warmly at him. "Try not to work too late."

"I'll do my best," Riluo chuckled softly.

Yushi and Shizhe made their way to the Crystal Estate once more. Yushi called out for Xueye but received no answer and he started to worry.

"He's not here?" Yushi looked at Shizhe hoping to get answers.

"Easy," Shizhe comforted. "Just before I met with you Xinhua left to retrieve him from Jinse. She wanted to report the matter while they discussed their current arrangement."

"You're certain he can be trusted with Xueye?" Yushi crossed his arms with a doubtful expression.

"Xueye trusts him greatly. You know he doesn't give that freely. Shouldn't that speak volumes?" Shizhe nodded and smiled.

"I know, I'm just worried," Yushi sighed. "I don't think I can rest easy until he's back here…"

"I understand. Please rest assured, I have seen first hand how they interact. We ran into Jinse when I took Xueye out and about. Even without my ability I can tell that they mean a lot to each other." Shizhe wasn't about to tell Yushi that she couldn't read Jinse's future directly. It would only make Yushi worry more. 

"If you put it that way…" Yushi trailed off with a sigh. "I trust your judgement."

"On that subject," Shizhe sighed. She was getting more and more concerned that she couldn't keep guiding them through these rough waters as well as usual. She couldn't keep delaying the matter. "As of late I've been struggling with the scope of the recent events' effects on the future. I don't want to bother you or the upper court with unnecessary burdens of it all, especially considering their existing workload. Riluo suggested that I ought to use my foresight and judgement to bring someone in on the secrets we carry to help parse out a plan of action should things go awry. Would you allow me to do so?"

"You would be the best to determine if it's safe to do so," Yushi chuckled. Shizhe was relieved he didn't seem adverse to the idea. "Who are you considering?"

"I was thinking of Xinhua," Shizhe stated with a soft smile. "She's quite brilliant. Even Yuliang was considering her aid in investigations. The General values her greatly, especially to handle the more difficult tasks among the guard."

"I don't mind as long as she won't unveil my identity to Xueye. I don't know when just yet, but I want to be the one to tell him," Yushi looked a little forlorn. 

"I'll ensure it," Shizhe couldn't help but beam with delight over his approval. "We can trust her."

"Just don't go hurting yourself to tell her the details of the future," Yushi gave her a pointed look.

"I won't," Shizhe smiled. She only ever did so if it was certain life or death. Even if it was Xinhua she wouldn't go back on that. Xinhua would just worry over her anyways, as delightful the idea of Xinhua taking care of her was, Shizhe couldn't stand the idea of seeing Xinhua sad or upset over her. "I doubt she'd let me anyways."

"Just don't go springing it on her," Yushi shook his head with a skeptical smile. "Whatever position you think she should have in the court, feel free to steer her in that direction."

"I think right now being one of Yuliang's investigators would be a much better use of her talents." Shizhe stated. She figured it would be the best start and Xinhua could find the position she was best suited for eventually. "Not that they are exactly wasted in the General's guards, she just always seemed to me like she could be better utilized elsewhere."

"If Huoyuan puts up too much of a fight you can tell him I ordered it then," Yushi laughed, imagining the General wouldn't let such a good subordinate go so easily.

"I appreciate it," Shizhe giggled. "If she feels up to leaving Xueye in your care tonight, I might whisk her away. We have much more than just contingencies to discuss…" Shizhe felt her cheeks heat up just thinking about it.

"Oh?" Yushi flashed a teasing smirk.

"Don't give me that look!" Shizhe huffed. "It just slipped out… It was bad timing. All the more reason I need her help to organize my thoughts."

"I didn't say anything," Yushi chuckled. "Even so, I'm happy for you."

"Thanks…" Shizhe squirmed with nervous energy. "I just hope her insight will help you with Xueye too."

"No need to push the matter with her," Yushi shook his head. "You are already more than enough help on that front."

"We'll see," Shizhe smirked. Xinhua knew Xueye better than anyone, she'd be a fool to not consult her on the subject. It was what Shizhe needed the most help on anyway. 

"Shizhe!" Yushi chastised upon seeing the scheming look in her eye. His attention was quickly drawn away before he could say anymore upon hearing Xueye's voice out front. He abandoned the conversation and opened the door before Xueye could even put the key in the door. 

"Xueye! Are you alright?!" He reached out, about to pull him into an embrace but he hesitated. The thought that his strength might not be under his control was still lingering.

"I'm fine," Xueye closed the gap, wrapping his arms around Yushi. Though he misunderstood Yushi's hesitance for concern he might be hurt, he did so in hopes of reassuring him. "You didn't have to come back if your business wasn't done."

"It's settled for now," Yushi gently rested his hands on Xueye's back despite the desperate desire to keep him in a tight embrace. "I'm sorry. I should have been there with you. I broke my promise."

"None of that," Xueye pulled back and smiled up at him. "Everything is fine."

"If anything I was foolish enough to have stepped away for even just a moment," Xinhua chimed in with a heavy sigh.

"I told you to stop that, jiejie!" Xueye huffed, glaring over at her. "Neither of you are to blame. It's over now so don't fret."

"Lady Meigui, it's a pleasure to meet you," Yushi bowed respectfully. "I'm Shujing."

"So you are the one I've been hearing about," Xinhua looked him up and down as though she were sizing up an opponent rather than someone she'd just met. If she recognized him at all from being around the palace her face didn't betray it in the slightest.

"Only good things I hope," Yushi joked. 

"Yes, quite," Xinhua let up her guarded gaze and smiled warmly. "Xueye and Lady Guangming sing your praises."

"Xinhua!" Xueye grumbled, feeling a little embarrassed.

"Just speaking the truth," Xinhua smirked at Xueye. Her smile softened as she returned her gaze to Yushi. "I want to thank you for protecting my brother and opening your home up to him in his time of need."

"Of course, I wouldn't hesitate to do so again if it's needed," Yushi smiled down at Xueye who fidgeted under his gaze.

"I hope you don't mind putting up with us for another night," Xinhua voiced her polite demand.

"Of course not, you are both welcome to stay as long as you'd like," Yushi smiled sweetly. There was still a little part of him that hoped Xueye would stay a little longer after all. Yushi glanced back at Shizhe who was quietly watching them, "There is someone here that would like to speak with you Lady Meigui."

"Lady Guangming?" Xinhua blinked, surprised to see her again so soon. It quickly melted away into a tender smile, "What a delight to meet with you yet again today."

"Sorry to trouble you so," Shizhe melted under Xinhua's sweet words. "I understand if you would like to stay but since Xueye will be safe here, would you mind if we discussed some of those important matters I mentioned before?"

Xinhua glanced at Xueye with a little uncertainty. He had been safe there until she took over for Yushi. She didn't want to leave him if Xueye wanted her near.

"Go on," Xueye smiled and waved for her to go. "Nothing bad can happen to me here."

The moment Yushi heard that, his pulse quickened and a euphoric feeling filled him. Xueye felt safe in his home, with him. So safe there wasn't a hint of uncertainty or hesitation in Xueye's voice.

"Nothing will harm him while he is here with me," Yushi assured. He really did want to spend another night alone with Xueye but if she insisted on staying he wasn't going to stop her. "Best not keep her lady waiting."

"There's no place safer for Xueye right now," Shizhe reassured, hoping so desperately that Xinhua would agree.

"Very well. I will leave him in your care." Xinhua let out a small breath with an amused smile. She'd be lying to herself if the thought of spending some time with Shizhe didn't sound so wonderful, business or not. The brief moment of her reporting to her earlier wasn't enough. "Shall we, my lady?" She offered her arm to Shizhe as the small woman skipped up to her with delight.

"Yes! Please take care, you two," Shizhe beamed over her shoulder at Yushi and Xueye as they started off.

"Have fun," Xueye waved with a cheeky grin.

"Come inside," Yushi gently urged Xueye with a hand between his shoulders. "You must be tired."

"I am," Xueye sighed. "I didn't exactly sleep well before this either."

"Did you not take your remedy?" Yushi asked.

"I did," Xueye nodded, he didn't want to bring up that not only was it Yushi's absence but also that his mind was running wild thinking of both Yushi and Jinse. "Dr. Jingji did suggest I use Dream Root, since the shipment came in I could try that and see if it helps."

"He also recommended I utilize it when I'm feeling restless," Yushi recalled the doctor going through the list of things that could help outside of his new remedy. "I have to admit I didn't rest well either."

"Perhaps it wouldn't hurt to incorporate it into some tea for the both of us then," Xueye smiled. "I did bring some back with me." Xueye pulled out a small root that looked a lot like ginger from his belt pouch. He was about to make his way to the kitchen until Yushi put a hand on his shoulder to stop him.

"Go rest, I'll take care of it," Yushi looked as though he wouldn't take no for an answer.

"Alright," Xueye sighed in defeat, handing over the root. Xueye wasn't in the mood to argue even if he was hoping to do something for Yushi. 

Xueye settled in the main seating area. His last burst of energy was quickly slipping away being back where he felt truly safe. He almost hated that he'd have to leave soon and go back to his own empty house. He was going to savor every last moment he could of this sweet comfort while he still could.

Yushi was delighted to do something for Xueye. He just wanted to take care of him for what was likely his final night in the Crystal Estate. It was hard to go back to their casual meetings when they could spare the time. Even in such a short time it felt so natural to have Xueye around.

As much as Yushi hoped to find more time to spend with Xueye, his mistake with the emissaries made it apparent that he needed to take more care in his duties. He'd feel more comfortable with overseeing the hunt for Korina's spies to help ensure Xueye's safety. With Shizhe it was easy to take a safe route back to the estate with her leading the way but it was still a little frustrating that they had to do so, even if Xueye still arrived after they did. 

Seeing how much harder the upper court was working while he was away was also bothering him. Hearing that the others were practically overworking themselves to accommodate him just didn't sit well with him. It was all the more motivation to focus on his duties. 

Yushi had enough rumination over recent events. It was all a problem to start in the next few days.

The water was finally boiling and he was so lost in thought he hadn't even bothered to figure out what blend would pair best. He sliced a small sliver of the root and chewed on it to taste it. He'd half expected the earthy or bitter flavor most roots had but it was surprisingly sweet. Through recent days, he'd found that Xueye much favored more floral teas and thought that it would pair perfectly with those. He couldn't help but smile at the thought that Xueye wouldn't have much trouble finding a tea to pair with it.

As he started to steep the tea he glanced around to take stock of the kitchen for something to snack on. Fortunately there was a bit of fruit available for him to slice up for something light to eat before they slept. Yushi hadn't eaten much during the day and he didn't know when the last time Xueye ate was considering the chaotic events.

He carried out the tray and quickly noticed Xueye was curled in on himself where he settled on the couch. Yushi quickly set the tray on the table and settled next to him.

"Are you alright?" Yushi asked softly.

"I'm…" Xueye sighed, he hesitated to express his thoughts. "It's nothing really."

Yushi hesitated for a moment but he reached out and pulled Xueye closer. The young man didn't even reist. Yushi felt the tension ease in Xueye's body as he embraced him. Yushi just quietly held him. It would likely be a while before he could indulge in such closeness and it also seemed to be just the comfort Xueye needed.

"Tea is getting cold…" Xueye voiced softly but didn't move.

"So it is," Yushi's rich voice was so gentle. Xueye could tell Yushi didn't mind if they stayed as they were. 

Xueye lingered a bit longer in the comfortable silence before he spoke again, "Things will probably be busy after this, huh?"

"Likely so," Yushi hummed in agreement. The disappointment in that fact was apparent. "There will be quite a bit of work to catch up on. For you and me."

"Can we still find time?" Xueye asked tentatively.

"I'm sure we can," Yushi smiled sweetly down at him. "I'd like to."

"I would too," Xueye smiled contentedly.