Archive of Our Own

Shen Yuan did not know how he ended up away from the scholarly comfort of Qing Jing and turned out liking the lack of it; he thought he'd never trade those bestiary stocked libraries for anything. Alas, here he is in Ponyville, with only five (5) adequately stocked bestiary shelves and five (5) friends to keep him company. The latter comes off as more of a surprise than the former.

Shen Yuan did not know when he had begun enjoying his life here exactly but he could imagine how.

When Yue Qingyuan, his benevolent father, expressed his concern over him not having any friends, he argued that books were plenty company enough. That didn't help his case, and only ended up with him packing his stuff. In hindsight, he should've known how pathetic that excuse sounded.

What might his other father have to say about sending off his only son away, you may ask? Contrary to the popular belief that Shen Qingqiu’s bears an overprotective nature over him, his A-Die only commended his husband’s plan and let Shen Yuan go off on his own with only a mild threat that he should always send his parents weekly letters about everything and anything that happened over that time interval without fail lest Shen Qingqiu himself come and assess his living conditions himself. 

“Maybe there A-Yuan could actually put his obscure knowledge of beasts and fauna to use.” Was simply what his A-Die had countered after he rightfully argued about the state of his undergoing thesis that he'd been working on in Qing Jing. Shen Yuan found merit in that, and so he stopped his fussing and accepted the opportunity for actual field work.

What his parents hadn't explained was that he's going to be accompanied by somepony else. Turns out the rulers of Cang Qiong hadn't completely forgotten about their only son’s inability to take care of himself.

On the day of his departure, he was met with a sight of his childhood friend Liu Qingge in front of a looming hot air balloon. 

Liu Qingge’s part of the most elite flying academy of the pony realm. He's the best flyer Shen Yuan's ever known— granted that he’s never known any other pegasus on a personal level. He's also one of the most frequently brought up names during his and his parents’ discussions (arguments) regarding his departure, because even though they hadn't been speaking frequently due to Liu Qingge’s intent of being the best flyer around and upping his ranks as a knight after obtaining said title, and Shen Yuan’s growing past foal age and his inherent stubbornness of meeting other ponies, the two of them are still obviously friends!

Friendship’s more than just frequent hangouts, knowing everything about the other, and companionship built off of trust and steady communication! Look at him and his childhood friend for example!

Okay, now he just sounded pathetic. Fine. He and Liu Qingge hadn't been the best pony pals since the two of them were foals playing house, he's fine in admitting that.

The pegasus had much to accomplish than being just his friend after all. He'd long since let him go.

So why is Liu Qingge checking the knots of that hot air balloon, like he'd be in any need flying it? He's a pegasus for Qingyuan’s sake!

“Qingge? Oh, Qingge it is you!”

The pegasus stopped fussing over the completely intact knots and flew to meet him half way in his galloping.

Liu Qingge looked at him from the tip of his horn up to the flair of his tail. He looked away just as fast.

“Shen Yuan. You… you look well.”

The unicorn giggled at the familiarity of his friend's blunt nature. “I am well, Qingge. You look well, too. What are you doing here? Why is it that you only show your face to me when you're about to see me off?”

He meant to play his words in a joking manner of course but he unknowingly said something wrong, or at least said what the pegasus did not want to hear, if the furrow of his eyebrows said as much.

Liu Qingge only explained his discomfort with something unrelated to Shen Yuan’s query, but Shen Yuan had expected that much from his childhood friend.

“I had meant to finish my training earlier than I did.”

“What, you graduated from the academy that fast?”

“I wouldn't be in front of you if I hadn't.”

“Qingge, that's awesome! You're definitely the coolest pony I know now!”

The pegasus' flushed face deepened in color. What, is he embarrassed of being praised? But it's true! Shen Yuan couldn't be any more prouder. He was about to sing more praises until Liu Qingge bought them right back to business. 

“Whatever. I'm here because of you, obviously. Did your parents not tell you?”

“You know they never tell me anything.”

“I figured as much. I'm surprised they’re letting you go far out of their sights.”

“Oh, you'd be surprised to know that it was Baba’s idea. Said I didn't have any friends, ordered that I had to change that— right in the middle of forming my thesis! I mean, even I know I’m going to have trouble being all alone.”

Liu Qingge let Shen Yuan see a twinge of sympathy from his expression. Then he looked at him with deep seriousness.

“You won’t be alone,” said the pegasus with heavy conviction.

“Don’t tell me you actually believe I’d be able to make friends there.”

“No,” Liu Qingge answered with a light scoff.

Shen Yuan tried not to feel offended. 

He didn't think he'd be able to do it too, but shouldn't his oldest friend be a bit more supportive?

“But you’ll have me.”

“What?”

Then to Shen Yuan's growing surprise, his childhood friend bowed deeply like a true knight for his prince.

“I’m here to escort you in your stay. That's what your parents haven't told you about.”

“What!!! Why didn't they tell me?”

“Because they knew you'd refuse my service.”

“Of course I would refuse! You're to be a knight, that's all you've ever wanted. You can't do that while being my bodyguard!”

“It’s a knight's duty to serve and protect the royal family. I’m not simply coming with you out of your parents’ whims. This is my training,” Liu Qingge explained as gently as he possibly could, for someone as stiff and ungentle as him and to someone as dense and oblivious as Shen Yuan, “And, you are right. This is all I have ever wanted. To be of service… to you, Your Highness.”

Shen Yuan gawked at him, trying to register his words.

For a moment, Liu Qingge thought he had finally understood him.

The only reason Liu Qingge applied for admission for that academy was because, on one particular day when they were but foals, Shen Yuan complimented him as being the best pegasi that has ever flown him off the ground. And that it’d be cool if he joined the Academy of Fliers. So, out of Shen Yuan’s whim, he honed his flying and excelled it to perfection. Has Shen Yuan seen his efforts? 

“Qingge…” The unicorn started, with a look so gentle that his next words hurt even more than they would've had alone. “Qingge, I’m sorry you had to follow my parent's orders. I appreciate you being here for me, but it would be selfish to take you with me. You'd be better off training as a knight in Bai Zhan, where real knights end up— wait, I’m not saying you're not a real knight— of course you're not one just yet.. don't give me that look, Qingge, I’m sorry!”

Liu Qingge did not speak to him the whole flight. He did not even share the same space as him! Although, that might've not been because of what he had said, for the pegasus methodically guided and pushed the hot air balloon in whatever direction they needed to take in order to arrive in Ponyville. (Where he'll be staying. With Liu Qingge.)

Still, the awkwardness did not cease. The whole time, he could feel Liu Qingge staring behind him. He feigned obliviousness and did not address it.

Back then, he had thought the two of them would've had to share a residence. When they had arrived at the treehouse his parents had commissioned for his stay, they discovered it to have only one bedroom. Shen Yuan kindly offered that they could just share a bed like they used to, but Liu Qingge’s cheeks reddened suddenly and he stammered over an explanation that he'd be staying someplace else. 

Dismayed he was, that he'd have to spend his stay here without a semblance of familiarity. At least with Liu Qingge, this whole thing wouldn't be completely unknown to him— he only needed to look at his childhood friend and realize all is well and his previous life back in Qing Jing was attainable. 

He felt disappointment once again, to know that his only friend went along out of duty and nothing else. But he didn't blame Liu Qingge, he's glad the pegasus was here to ‘guard’ him, but it wouldn't have been because Liu Qingge liked having him around. His friend needed to, because he was ordered.

He remembered his first night in Ponyville as a night of sad-organizing. Like stress-eating but when one is sad and is organizing to sedate the feeling.

Now, he found it all to be so silly. Of course then he wouldn't realize how much Ponyville would change his life for the better.

It had been two years since he and Liu Qingge’s moving day. 

Shen Yuan had written a hundred and four letters to his parents and had gotten a hundred and four in return. 

As for friends, he had gotten considerably less than a hundred and four, but he supposes it is alright. Yue Qingyuan seemed to think so.

Ponyville’s architecture and norms were unlike that of his hometown and sect, and the people were so undeniably less snobby than the higher pony classes.

Of course, Yue Qingyuan had long since abolished the stupid rule that only unicorns could perform cultivation. Then, that had caused an uproar and tension among the three pony classes but Shen Yuan had only ever experienced it all through the worn-down pages of books on the History of Cang Qiong or his Baba’s numerous biographies. Now, and since seven hundred years ago, all kinds of ponies lived in Cang Qiong and thrived back in whichever peaks they were able to get into, such as Qing Jing, An Ding, even Bai Zhan, but they were ponies with money and were born from a higher social standing that their higher educations were a given.

Now that Shen Yuan’s been staying in Ponyville for a full two years, he questioned whether he was fit for that royal life.

“Yuanyuannn, you’re not even listening!”

“Qingqi, I am. Mysterious creatures elongated in various forms and weird things turned into stone. Didn't miss a thing, did I?” He said whilst smirking. He’s exceptionally good at multi-tasking— Shen Yuan could ponder his existence in the universe while having fun and laying in checkered print cloth above soft grass with his friends.

“You forgot about the pony-eating fungi that's growing up to the size of your treehouse,” Mu Qingfang offered.

“The what now.”

“See! He's not listening. Thank you, A-Fang.” 

“Hah, you didn't get to me. I was merely confused because a fungus that large shouldn't be possible. I heard everything that Qingqi said just now.”

Shang Qinghua muffled, in between chewing a cupcake from Wei Qingwei’s basket, “That's only because you casted some spell or something.”

“I did not.”

“Did too.”

“You dare accuse me of such a thing? When I’m simply just so proficient in the art of conversing, unlike yourself?”

“Don’t use your fancy Cang Qiong talk with me..!”

“I barely even used any—?!”

The whole group of ponies erupted in fits of laughter. As they always do together.

Although, not entirely together. One pony was missing—

“Now where in the Pony Realm’s Liu Qingge busying himself again? His hunts are keeping him away!” Qingqi questioned, as she motioned to Shen Yuan’s direction. As if he alone knows whatever wind Liu Qingge lets himself be taken with.

“Earlier, he said he’ll be back on time for Qingwei's picnic. He’s probably more upset about his tardiness than we are— he should be arriving any minute.”

A flash of wind shot behind them, blowing some of the tree’s leaves that they've been using for cover, as well as half the checkered blanket. They optimized their space, okay. Why sit around a blanket when they could lie on each other as pillows?

“Sorry I’m late.”

Shen Yuan was first to exclaim, “Qingge! You're wet!”

“Where’ve you been? Qinghua’s eaten your share of cupcakes already,” Wei Qingwei informed as if it's of most importance. 

“Wasn’t me, swear,” Shang Qinghua said as he stuffed cupcake-icing further inside his cupcake-puffed face.

And perhaps Shang Qinghua's cupcake thieving was of most importance, that is, before Liu Qingge shared his own news.

“Mu Qingfang, your family’s acres and herbal gardens were being drenched by storm clouds that abnormally rained chocolate. I was only passing by.”

Mu Qingfang immediately stood up, “What?!! Why didn't you come get me?”

“It would've taken longer to get you, all of you— since I thought you'd all want to come and get drenched as well— and then subdue the storm clouds. I figured I’d just take care of it myself.”

Since they met as foals, and when they arrived in Ponyville, up until now, Liu Qingge’s as pragmatic and efficient as ever.

“... I also didn't want to worry you all. And ruin Wei Qingwei's picnic.”

But he's also started to show more emotions since then. 

Shen Yuan smiled at his friend's deed, accompanied by his shy words. “It’s okay, Qingfang. Qingge’s had it all handled.”

He stopped the stubborn earth pony from galloping off to check on his family and the state of his medicinal herbs.

“Liu Qingge, are you sure they don't need my help?”

“They don’t. Your sister asked me not to let you get back until you've thoroughly enjoyed our picnic.”

Mu Qingfan sighed, running out of arguments to leave. “Well alright. Thank you, Liu Qingge. I owe you one.”

The pegasus only huffed and sat down on the empty spot Shen Yuan had saved for him.

Shen Yuan turned back to Mu Qingfang on his left, “That’s his way of saying you're welcome. It's more akin to don’t mention it.”

Liu Qingge glared at him, cheeks coated with a blush, but didn't dare correct him in fear of fueling the teasing more.

“Ah, thank you, Yuan’er,” Said Qi Qingqi and then proclaimed, “Our walking Liu Qingge dictionary!” 

Everyone laughed once more, except the two that's being made fun of.

“Yeah, yeah, laugh it off. Qingge, what exactly happened back there?”

Shang Qinghua whined, “Don’t try to change the topic!”

“Shush.”

“It is as I had said. Storm clouds rained down on the Mu’s fields but instead of heavy rain it was chocolate.”

Wei Qingwei thought deeply of the notion, “Hmm, chocolate rain clouds do sound promising. Shame it had rained on the Mu’s, everyone would have much preferred it to have fallen on the bakeshop.”

“But it hadn't. It rained on our land,” Mu Qingfang said seriously, “All sorts of weird and unconventional things have been happening all over Ponyville. Like those elongated creatures and stoned furniture Qingqi had said. There has to be a source to all this madness, right?”

Qi Qingqi agreed, “That’s true. This all can't just be a coincidence. Despite the uncoordinated events, it's clear someone's been trying to spin some mischief.”

“But who could it be?” Shang Qinghua pondered, as did the rest of the ponies.

They thought of answers back and forth while they ate and soaked in each other’s company.

After they’ve eaten their fill, when the sun’s about to be brought down by Yue Qingyuan, they departed with unanswered questions still.

But the problem still seemed too far from them as of now, and as there weren't any more immediate risks around, or not that they know of, the group of ponies eased their queries and let the night start simply and guide their sleep.

Everypony except Shen Yuan.

After Liu Qingge insisted on flying him home, as always, he watched the retreating pegasus’ form go little by little until he's sure he wouldn't notice Shen Yuan leaving. 

Shen Yuan, with his trusted book of spells, a cloak, and nothing else, pursued the path to Bai Lu Forest.

He knew that anything weird going about Ponyville could be possibly traced more or less around the mysterious mythical forest. He had to investigate. And he had to go alone, because Liu Qingge would never let him go in here, even if he offered they go together, there'd still be some degree of fussing and arguing that he could not just let it get in the way of his investigation. Plus, when the others discovered Liu Qingge and him left on their own the night before, they'd either sulk or be pissed— or, even worse, they discover they're sneaking about tonight and Shen Yuan would have more fussing and arguing to handle!

No, he had to do this alone. He's sure he could uncover the mystery on his own.

The further he trekked the forest, the more doubts he thought of. When passing through a tree with an upright pony’s silhouette, he let the notion that maybe this wasn't a good idea almost stir his mind.

No! He had to focus!

He breathed in and out, righted himself up, and chanted he could do this.

Just then, when he had only just recovered his bearing, a sound shook the entire forest from his left.

Shen Yuan yelped, prepared for a looming figure to attack him, but for several minutes, no such thing had. The voice only continued. Slowly, Shen Yuan followed it.

The further he went left, the closer the voice was and the more he could register it. Now, Shen Yuan knew this wasn't a sound made by a creature in order to intimidate or draw back an enemy, it was a wounded sound. 

A wounded creature, or beast, was near him and thank Yue Qingyuan he did not bring Liu Qingge, he'd probably already attacked the poor thing!

But Shen Yuan, resident creature expert, could surely be of help.

Before he could hatch out a plan on how to approach the creature/beast, he's suddenly tackled upfront and landed harshly on the forest floor.

The pony groaned in pain as he tried to wiggle out his way from the creature/beast’s clawed hand, wait, pawed hand— no, both? To answer his own confusion, Shen Yuan pries open his eyes to see the creature/beast he's dealing with.

What met his sight was no doubt a draconequus. He had studied draconequuses for years— well, he merely marvelled at their mystical element. The Qing Jing’s archives were the closest he had ever gotten to examining the mythical creatures and it only provided him collections of legends formed from hearsays and uncoordinated depictions. Nopony has ever properly drawn them, nopony knew how to test its accuracy after all.

Until now of course, since he's somehow gotten himself incredibly close to such a wondrous creature.

Like some of the illustrations, the draconequus before him bore chimera-like features, with mismatched sets of limbs, and a scorpion’s tail. He's also immensely huge. 

But something's different above this particular draconequus. For one, he almost seemed pony-like. Shen Yuan could also feel the creature’s body vibrating, changing shape, but the creature above him furrowed his brows in concentration to… maintain his bigger form?

Then, its form stayed constant for a while, unmoving, giving the draconequus time to compose himself. His clawed hand still gripped on his hooves tightly enough that if he moved now for even an inch blood would be drawn from him. But with the creature's body weight above him, he wouldn't even be able to move if he tried. 

The draconequus above him looked rather tired. In stark contrast to Shen Yuan’s own excitement.

He did not rule out the possibility that perhaps the illustrations and scrolls had been wrong, but something was inkling at the back of his mind that he's right with whichever direction his mind had arrived.

And although it was highly illogical, he reached a conclusion that confused even himself. 

“You’re half-pony, half-draconequus?”

Luo Binghe, he’d come to realize soon enough, only smirked deviously, “You’re correct. Are you scared, little one?”

What!!! Shen Yuan had never read about a creature like him before! And he's so positively sure he had read every textbook and scroll about non-mythical and mythical beasts in the pony realm, in all the realms.

“H-how? You're…certain?”

“Oh, this one's very certain.”

He knows of draconequus, of course, how they once ruled over everything and every creature. He also knew how they dwindled in numbers after their last ruler’s tyranny, and so even before knowing of this creatures’ blood origins Shen Yuan had already been completely enamored over his existence.

And now, to discover he’s also part pony— Shen Yuan had to find legitimacy over this claim!

This puny pony full of queries, excited Luo Binghe so much, and why is that? Luo Binghe’s only beginning to understand, but for now he marked it off as something he'd have to work on. It's been too long since he’s been reveling in the rush of his conquering and exploits, of course he's eager to show off what he really is, even if it's only in the presence of such a puny little creature as of the moment.

He released the little pony, letting him shrink in fear as he took in Luo Binghe’s truest and full form.

Those doe eyes looked up at him unblinking, wonderfully in fear of his evil nature— he concluded. He preened at the power of being feared, until the wide eyed pony beamed in genuine excitement he'd never been subjected to before.

“You’re amazing !”

“No, I’m not sparing your lif— what?”

“I’ve never seen a creature like you before..!”

Is this puny pony, not only unaware of the bright red lighted up danger sign in front of him, but also stupid?

“How did you come to be? Which one of your parents was a draconequus? Are there more of you? Like, exactly like you? Or just a draconequus is fine, that in of itself is a miracle. You're the first I’ve seen and there aren't any records of draconequuses around this habitat, so I’m guessing no, would you like to confirm that? Oh my, are you alone?! You poor thing— are you hurt anywhere?”

Or perhaps delirious.

“Can I touch your tail?”

Okay, deliriously stupid. He's been imprisoned for three hundred years, and— after being condemned to be a marble that's completely aware of its own unmoving existence— he's being subjected to this? 

“Oh, I’m sorry! That was inappropriate of me. I guess I’m just used to creatures being so open to me— that was my fault. Won't happen again! Please don't be scared…”

What the fuck.

Him? Scared? He's the literal embodiment of chaos and disharmony! How dare this puny pony treat him like he's some Bai Lu Forest beast.

“Listen, puny pony,” He said as he stalked dangerously forward. Not that they were far apart to begin with, with the pony’s eagerness to examine him earlier, but he needed to back this pony up against the tree to get his point across.

“The name’s Shen Yuan!” The puny pony helpfully provided.

“You don't quite seem to realize the danger you'r— wait, did you say Shen?”

“Yes, Shen Yuan. And your name is?

“Luo Binghe. I’m sorry, I have to ask, Shen Yuan?”

Shen Yuan, ever patient— no wonder beasts liked him— only nodded as if Luo Binghe had just learned another word like a slow foal. Like a teacher. Like something his old master would've never done. 

But they bear the same name. Hm.

“Puny po— Shen Yuan, do you perhaps know a pony named Shen Qingqiu?”

“You know A-Die? Oh, of course you do, who doesn't.”

He let himself grin devilishly, as he couldn't contain the excitement from hearing this piece of valuable information. How lucky was he, to come across that scum’s adorably clueless son, who knew nothing of him and what he's capable of?

He let himself ponder for a while, around the very real idea of the Shen Qingqiu having a son. An adorable specimen withholding any sense of danger, as if he had traded all capacity for distrust in exchange of only bearing kindness, of all things. Could he really be Shen Qingqiu’s offspring? It all just seemed too far-fetched. Perhaps that scum didn't raise him, sending him away out of fear of his position or simply because he's a bastard who’s capable of negligence and child abuse.

If so, then this unicorn Shen Yuan is useless to him.

But he had to be sure first before disposing of loose threads.

“Tell me, Shen Yuan, are you close with your father?”

The pony gave him a puzzled look. “Well, I write to him and Baba every week. They always respond despite their duties as rulers of Cang Qiong, as you may know, pretty hectic stuff! So I guess I can say we're pretty solid as far as long-distance family goes.”

Oh? It looked like Yue Qingyuan finally grew some and Shen Qingqiu became less of a prickly scum over the centuries. As a result Shen Yuan was brought to him. Like an unknowing welcome back gift.

What a valuable thing he has over here. A pawn he could use to fulfill his long overdue revenge, if he plays his cards right.

“You see, he's my shizun back when I was but a foal. Shen Qingqiu’s the reason for my becoming, it’d be nice to see him again.”

“A draconequus… as A-Die’s disciple?”

“As I said, I was but a foal then. I hadn't yet known of my other half.”

“Well that's fascinating.. What age were you? How far were you from forming a golden core? How did you discover your—”

“Forgive me, Shen Yuan, but I'd rather not talk of my upbringing as of this moment. Truth be told, the reason why I’m still so unsure of returning to Cang Qiong is because nobody knows of my draconequus nature, only my pony form. I’m not sure if…. if I’m still welcome.”

The pony’s face turned and crinkled with sympathetic remorse. “I understand… and I’m sure A-Die, your shizun, will too. You are his disciple after all. He's sure to recognize you.”

There's certainly no doubt about that. His mere silhouette would've been enough to set his scum of a master on edge and spewing curses.

Shen Yuan, this silly fool, continued in an attempt to soothe him, “Don’t worry so much. You’ll be fine, Binghe. I’ll help you with anything. So, I have to ask again, is Binghe hurt anywhere?”

They had only met mere minutes ago and he's already referring to him so familiarly. He found that sweet voice addictive.

“Where did Shen Yuan say he resided again? This one could let himself be… examined if that would please him.”

“Are you sure? I really wasn't trying to be pushy—! You should know, your comfort matters most of all to me.”

“Oh, I’m sure A-Yuan will take perfect care of me. Won't you?”

“O-of course I will. But we should go now, the way back isn't far but it’ll be dark soon.”

“There’s no need to walk. Simply tell this one where we ought to arrive.”

Shen Yuan, sweet thing, he's beginning to realize, offered him a confused look but obeyed him despite it. “In Ponyville, my house’s not far from the mayor's office, actually it's kinda distinct. It being a big treehouse and all.”

“Hm, pardon the intrusion,” He said while bending down and snaking a clawed arm around the pony, who yelped in surprise and tried to get off. “I wouldn't squirm as much if I were you.”

The squirming stopped. Is this unicorn Shen Yuan going to do everything he says, blindly trusting him? If so, his plans for his master will be painstakingly easy. Turns out, he didn't need any further power ups, all he needed was this adorable little pony around his claws.

As he said, he had to play his cards right. The best course of action right now is to indulge in Shen Yuan’s bizarrely caring nature and be as pathetic as ponily possible to endear his trust. 

Luo Binghe regarded the embarrassed pony who's trying to not move as much despite being uncomfortable about being lifted and ponyhandled mid-air with slight amusement.

“Hold on tight, A-Yuan.”

Who's to say this game of cards wouldn't be fun?

“I didn't know draconequus could teleport. Do you mind if I write this down? It's not an official report, just for my own collection.”

“This one came here to be examined as much as A-Yuan would like. Of course that meant I agreed to everything that A-Yuan would want to know, and record.”

Wow! This draconequus was so nice, considering they had only met less than an hour ago. Shen Yuan's so great at making friends now. Take that, Baba!

“Binghe’s so generous to me.”

“Not at all, it is A-Yuan that's been too kind.”

“I’m not sure about that…”

“Is it not A-Yuan who offered me a place to stay?”

Well, Shen Yuan hadn't said anything about that, but he may as well agree to it now and consider it done.

“...Yes, but Binghe's repaying it by filling a page of my bestiary.”

“Only a page? This one's sure A-Yuan will find more to write about. Be sure to get a separate notebook, sweet thing.”

The way Luo Binghe’s addressing him is kind of making him delirious and fuzzy. He felt his cheeks warm and hastily turned around in an effort to find what the half-draconequus was requesting and to hide the effect his voice had on him.

“I’ll be back! Make yourself at home!”

As Luo Binghe watched the little unicorn retreat he couldn't help but entertain the idea once more. Is this truly Shen Qingqiu’s son? That pony was nothing if not distrustful and inhospitable. How did somepony like him raise a pony like Shen Yuan as he is? Perhaps the little unicorn’s stubbornly kind nature persisted despite the suffocating sternness Shen Qingqiu undoubtedly had put pressure on him.

That must be the reason why Shen Yuan, a unicorn so incapable of taking care of himself— a fact Luo Binghe instantly concluded just by the state of his cluttered residence— was currently situated here in Ponyville away from Qing Jing’s comfort and privileges.

Shen Yuan seemed to have taken his sweet time finding a spare notebook, making him wait around like this. Surrounded with such filth. 

Fine.

He shifted back to his pony form, since it was easier to reach the litter. Despite his lesser form, his chaos magic did not dwindle. He is more than capable of shifting and moving things around as it pleases him. 

He had only been getting the desk area finished when a quick knock hit Shen Yuan’s door and not even a beat longer, before Luo Binghe could find out who in their right mind would barge in Shen Yuan’s residence at this ungodly hour, the door had been opened and the stranger all but casually let himself in. Why even bother knocking in the first place?

The pegasus that entered seemed to know the treehouse’s interior far too well for Luo Binghe’s liking. The unnamed pony froze in his tracks, suddenly on guard and trusting his fight instincts to just lead the way before even giving the pony that's about to be subjected to it a chance to explain.

It's a good thing, then, that Luo Binghe’s not one for explanations, he's more of the brawl type himself.

They barely started exchanging blows with each other when they felt pillows being thrown at them.

“You two! Down!! You’re flinging my books all over the place!”

Like misbehaving dogs, they begrudgingly did as instructed.

“He started it,” Luo Binghe confessed easily.

Liu Qingge ignored him, one because he did start it and two, there's more pressing matters to discuss.

“Shen Yuan. Who’s this?!”

The unicorn sighed.

“Qingge, this is Luo Binghe. Binghe, this is Liu Qingge. Now, why were you ruining my bookshelves?”

Both ponies frowned upon hearing the unicorn calling the other familiarly. Who was the other to Shen Yuan? They both seemed to think ferociously.

“Well? Is one of you going to answer me?”

Liu Qingge spoke first, before Luo Binghe could, “I found this stranger misplacing your belongings. I thought he was a thief.” The pegasus side-eyed him keenly from head to hooves, “Though I wouldn't rule it out just yet.”

“Binghe’s not a thief, Qingge. He's my guest. You attacked my guest.”

The pegasus only scoffed dismissively. “And how could I have known? You never have guests I don't know.”

Okay, wow, what a way to say he's got literally only five friends.

“Even still, Qingge shouldn't attack just anyone! Before you even know them and their intentions! And what are you even doing, visiting so late at night? Did something happen?”

“No. I couldn't sleep. Came to check on you.”

“That’s sweet of you, Qingge. But I’m fine, I haven't even gone out of the treehouse since you last saw me. Which was here.”

“My senses said otherwise.”

Oh but of course, his senses. They had this running joke about Liu Qingge’s weirdly inherent foreboding feeling that he got whenever he thought, or felt, that Shen Yuan's up to no good. 

Luo Binghe, who's been brooding since the two ponies had started talking to themselves, finally spoke, “And you're sure they're so reliable? Should check again.”

“You—” Liu Qingge started getting up, ready to go at it again, but was reminded of Shen Yuan’s disapproving gaze in front and sat back down.

“Who are you, exactly?”

“A-Yuan had already made our introductions, Liu Qingge. A-Yuan, is your friend deaf?”

Liu Qingge all but spluttered, “Wh— you let him call you that?!!”

“Let him? Binghe can call me anything he'd like. You can, too.”

“I couldn't possibly—”

“Why not? I call you Qingge, or Qing-ge on occasion.” 

The broom Luo Binghe had been carrying silently cracked in his hold.

“T-that’s different. For you. You— calling you that would mean differently than what you’re thinking.”

“Why are you speaking riddles all of the sudden?” Shen Yuan playfully laughed it off, “This isn't like you, Qingge!”

The pegasus looked pained. Luo Binghe almost felt sorry for him. What Liu Qingge had meant was so painfully obvious to anyone but Shen Yuan. 

Luo Binghe decided, then, to have lots of fun toying with this pegasus Liu Qingge for the rest of his stay (and for the rest of his existence).

Luo Binghe spent his days torturing Shen Yuan's friends like Ponyville's the new Good Place. Don't ask him how he knew how to reference that— just laugh and be amused. 

The explanation the two of them came up with— because how could Shen Yuan’s friends let a strange pony hang around their sheltered, nerdy good friend— was that Luo Binghe was an old friend from Cang Qiong.

“He only came to visit. Everyone be nice to Binghe, now,” said Shen Yuan, the last one more pointedly at one particular pegasus, something Liu Qingge either clearly missed or intentionally dismissed. Something tells Luo Binghe that it's the latter, because the pegasus seem to momentarily trade his brutish ways of handling things for a moment for half a brain in situations including or centering Shen Yuan's welfare.

Liu Qingge questioned with narrowed eyes, “Care to explain how I’ve never known a ‘Luo Binghe’ back then?” 

“You weren't my only friend in Cang Qiong!”

The other huffed, “That’s just not right!”

“Qingge, I hope you aren't trying to say that me having a social life is that unbelievable?”

“Yes. Back then.”

Qi Qingqi’s hoof nudged him harshly.

To his credit, the pegasus grimaced at his comment and tried countering the statement, “What? I said back then. Then’s then, now's now. And he has us now.”

Shen Yuan cleared his throat, “That’s true, Qingge. Thanks. But then still happened, didn't it? Binghe is also my friend— one that I rather miss after so long.”

The entire time— after all five ponies barged in on the two of them having civil early morning tea unannounced— the stranger whom Shen Yuan calls a friend merely towered smugly behind him, letting the unicorn defend his stay, unaware of his guest’s menacing look-over.

Only then did Luo Binghe decide to say something. 

“Ah yes, A-Yuan and I haven't had the time to catch up until just recently. I was so devastated over the news, back then— I know the Imperial Rulers never meant it to be so, but it was utter torture to be so far away from my dearest friend. How I managed it all, one could only imagine.

A-Yuan’s truly the only person I could confide with. After experiencing an unfortunate event back home, something I wouldn't even dare mention now, A-Yuan graciously extended his accommodations. It's a difficult time for me, so forgive me if I seemingly dropped in on Shen Yuan’s residence unannounced. I did not know we had to publicize and make know of every single development in everyone's personal residence around here in Ponyville. And, frankly, your comfort wasn't the first thing I had in mind. But there's much to learn about the pony ways here, as I am staying for as long as A-Yuan will have me. You're not planning to get rid of me so soon, are you, A-Yuan?”

The green earth pony, Mu Qingfang, looked at him as if he's torn from acting suspicious or letting himself feel sympathy over his fake act. 

Liu Qingge, halfway Luo Binghe’s speech, keeps trying to make Shen Yuan look his way to deliver an incredulous “are you kidding me” look but the unicorn’s too busy trying to school his expression away from his rightful shocked one, more worried about trying to keep his face from not looking so flushed.

The rest just cringed at this newcomer's dramatics, but still wary.

And Shang Qinghua, who looked like he had just seen a ghost, had hidden himself behind Wei Qingwei the entire interaction. They did not rule it as something worth suspecting, because the coward pony’s outright reaction to most things was fear, and Luo Binghe could not care less for any of the ponies in this room except for Shen Yuan, much less one random quivering pony he could barely see.

“Ah— no, no. Of course Binghe can stay and leave whenever he'd like!”

“Well, if A-Yuan's going to continue to be this accommodating, this Binghe wouldn't be so sure about leaving.” 

“You’re not leaving???”

“Hahaha, he's not leaving yet, Qingge,” Shen Yuan responded for him.

Annoyed, Liu Qingge turned to face the rest of his face, “He’s not leaving!”

Qi Qingqi coughed, trying to ease the incredible awkwardness. “Well. It is Yuanyuan's residence. We shouldn't have a say on who gets to be his guests.”

In turn, Liu Qingge looked at her like she had stabbed him on the back. And she might as well have!

“You were against this awhile ago,” He frantically looked around the group, “You all were!”

Mu Qingfang said apologetically, “That was before, when you phrased it like this pony’s taking advantage of Yuanyuan. Seems to be that this fellow only needed a place to stay.”

Luo Binghe stiffened, though unnoticed by the rest. Despite being the topic, the pony friends paid him no mind amidst their group discussion.

He forgot why he was here, by Shen Yuan's side making him tea and breakfast, in the first place.

He frowned upon the reminder.

The days following, after he had familiarized himself with the people Shen Yuan did not know any better not to socialize with, Luo Binghe got to work tormenting them.

And they couldn't even trace it back to him. Not in a way that would make Shen Yuan believe their word over his. As his friend, they all know far too well how protective the unicorn got over the creatures he had taken upon himself to shelter and care for. It's like he was made for Luo Binghe to toy with.

That night, when he had fatefully met the unicorn, he didn't realize how lucky he was, to have landed a direct, guaranteed golden ticket to realizing his deranged dream of torturing his despicable scum of a master until Shen Qingqiu had no choice but to accept that he's better than him. That Luo Binghe has finally bested him. That he didn't deserve what he went through, under Shen Qingqiu’s scheming, heavy hooves.

What the demon of chaos didn't know, then, that it would take him much longer to fully realize just how lucky he had been. 

For now though, in Shen Yuan’s book-cluttered treehouse, he's unknowingly starting to.

One thing he’ll never understand though, even in the future, was the unicorn’s obsession of stressing himself over poorly made trash novels.

“Absolute garbage! Qinghua really out did himself, this one’s somehow even worse and filthier than the last one!”

Luo Binghe, who’s carrying a tray of offerings after busying himself with making the softest sweet treats for Shen Yuan, dodged the flying projectile easily.

“Careful with the books, A-Yuan.”

The unicorn scoffed, “Like it could even be called a proper book. It's— it's an atrocity! An insult to literature.”

Luo Binghe chuckled, “And yet A-Yuan spends his past time devouring them. Why not consume these cupcakes instead?”

“Those are for me? Oh, Binghe, you shouldn't have. You already made me breakfast and lunch…”

“Nonsense. It pleases me endlessly for a chance to please you.”

Shen Yuan offered him a brilliant smile as thanks, one that only further ignited his desire to cook for the unicorn, or to do anything for him.

“You’re even sweeter than the cupcakes, Binghe!”

If Luo Binghe was some weaker being, that sentence coming from Shen Yuan may have killed him. But he wasn't. 

“Am I? A-Yuan hasn't even tasted them, he might change his mind.”

Shen Yuan devoured the treats, much to his satisfaction. The whole time, the unicorn wouldn't stop singing him praises of reverence and thanks. It fueled something in him, a want he had no name of but didn't deny the existence of.

So he liked cooking, baking, cleaning, and serving Shen Yuan in general, what of it? Surely that didn't mean he'd abandon his initial plan.

It only meant the unicorn was amazing company, a variable he didn't foresee and so does not know how to proceed against his instinct to care for such an adorable, helpless creature.

It didn't help the slightest that Shen Yuan seemed to truly care for some creature like him, too. He asked him about all sorts of aspects in his biology and way of life. At first, he thought it was because the unicorn couldn't contain his innate curiosity that came with his being a researcher first and foremost, but it became increasingly evident that Shen Yuan’s care for him and his state of being came from more than just his want to fill a gap in his knowledge but more so in Luo Binghe himself. 

“Was it hard, being half-pony and half-draconequus—? Actually, don't answer that, of course it must've been difficult for you. I'm sorry…”

“Don’t apologize, I'm flattered A-Yuan cares for this one so much.”

“Well of course! You're my friend, and a very interesting pony-creature— I’d like to know more about you, Binghe.”

Luo Binghe smiled, charmed. “We have time to do that. This one won't be going anywhere far from A-Yuan. Not so soon.”

Shen Yuan giggled. “Well I certainly hope not. As friends, I barely know anything about you yet. Oh! Quick, tell me, what do you like to read?”

He thought he'd never ask. Considering the type of pony Shen Yuan is, he had long since determined the type of answer that would guarantee his increasing favor.

“There’s not one genre that I’ve never tried; I like to keep my interests broad and diverse. But most of all, I enjoy epic, fantasy adventures and romance.”

“That’s exactly how I like to pick my reads! I exhaust myself on one such topic and move on to the next. But of course, beastiology has always been a constant interest of mine, I never stray too far from it. It's good for me that it revolves around numerous aspects and every topic has other sub topics that are just as interesting. It never bores me! See, we're nothing if not history. Every creature has contributed to it as we all evolved from something and in turn will evolve into something too. Then there’s ecology and the distribution of organisms, to know how and why they interact we must divulge into individual evolutions. And it's so much more interesting if they had somehow evolved together, like how you—”

Luo Binghe didn't mind the sudden but expected, and well welcomed, rambling. He was more confused when it had stopped.

“Ah, I'm sorry— I didn't mean to get off track. We were talking about you; you should tell me more!”

Immense fondness creeped into him, like the cupcakes’ icing piping bag. “I wasn't offended. In fact I quite enjoyed the lesson,” He teased.

Shen Yuan flushed. The unicorn was easily embarrassed, always wanting to hide his thin face. As if he could get any cuter to Luo Binghe’s eyes. 

“I didn't mean to lecture Binghe, believe me. Sometimes, I just get carried away. Everyone says so.”

“How so? I’d want nothing more than to listen to A-Yuan. He interests me very much.”

“Cool, thanks! Um! You mentioned you like epics, right? I enjoy them too! What do you like about them?”

He couldn't help but notice Shen Yuan’s change of topic, but decided to let the unicorn have his way. It can't be helped, he found himself a shy one. Luo Binghe didn't really mind and instead allowed himself to enjoy the conversation.

“I like the hero’s feats the most. Epic adventures emulate a sort of grand storytelling I particularly enjoy. I like stories that center around the protagonists’ defeat and grand awakening, which of course follows an even grander revenge arc,” Luo Binghe shared truthfully. “And for A-Yuan?”

“Oh! Well, back in Qing Jing we mostly focused on ethnolinguistics, in the case of classic epics, and the subject interested me, truly— I even made several theses around some old pony epics— but sometimes I can't help but want to water the whole story down and just say that the main character’s cool and over powered.”

Luo Binghe arched a brow. “Does A-Yuan really think himself shallow to like that aspect alone, or in particular?”

“I know there's nothing wrong with it. It's just nice to sometimes only enjoy the story as it is, you know? Without thinking too much. Not that I like…not thinking.”

He couldn't help the laugh that escaped. Luo Binghe really found himself a ridiculous little pony.

Shen Yuan gave him a look, “Don’t laugh! Is it so bad to admire the protagonist?”

“Of course not. And I didn't say anything against the idea! Would A-Yuan care to share his reasoning?”

“Are you not bored out of your mind listening to my ramblings?”

“A-Yuan does not ramble. I find our conversations rather fruitful and insightful.”

The unicorn did not seem to believe him, but continued on. “When you're reading a hero’s story, you know who to root and feel sorry for. You see the protagonist’s journey from the start until the very end. From their harsh upbringing, tragic decisions, and all that suffering that ultimately led to something they forcibly forged and strived for to happen. It usually always follows a revenge plot, so one can see how far the protagonist has come. It's inspiring to see such growth— even in fiction the message transcends beyond the pages. Well, to me at least, since that type of main character’s my favorite. I’m hoping you understand?”

If that's what Shen Yuan liked in a story and its protagonist, then he'd certainly love Luo Binghe and his upbringing. If he knew.

He prided himself in the fact that he's somehow, and in some way, Shen Yuan's favorite.

“I do, completely. I enjoy those too. But that's just all they’ll ever be: stories.”

“What does Binghe mean?”

“What I mean is, unlike your favorite protagonists, others don't get the ending they want, or deserve.” Why is he saying this? “The heavens, or fate, or some other wordly intervention are more favorable to others than to some. Some are still waiting for the nightmare to end.”

Shen Yuan’s eyes softened, like he had seen something in front of him that's vulnerable and unveiling— which was impossible because Luo Binghe wouldn't (couldn't) let that happen. 

“Why are you looking at me like that?”

Why are Shen Yuan’s eyes growing so impossibly larger? How are they glistening like jewels drizzled in sunlight?

“Binghe, you know you can tell me anything,” Shen Yuan offered gently.

He's trying to get him to open up. To what? Let his guard down? No thank you.

“I spoke too much. Where were we before I left the subject matter?”

“Binghe…”

“I say leave it.” He furrowed his eyes further to convey the message. He even let his aura spill out for a moment, letting the pony know that he best keep to himself and leave the subject alone.

But Shen Yuan's utter genuineness didn't falter and thus compelled him to look away himself lest he does something he'd regret seconds after it had already been done.

“Binghe, I know why you're here. I talked about it with A-Die.”

His red eyes grew wide, but quickly resumed his stony demeanor. He regarded Shen Yuan once more, brows tight as he examined the situation. 

“How long have you known of my intentions?”

“The day after we met.” Shen Yuan answered casually, a tone similar to when he had shown Luo Binghe his favourite quills. A friendly chat. Like they were friends.

Luo Binghe couldn't help but be wary. And that surprised him, wasn't he always supposed to be wary of everyone, at all times? When did Shen Yuan become somepony he was beginning to trust?

As he had confided with that scum, it seemed that Shen Yuan did not trust him, either. Admittedly, he shouldn't. Luo Binghe has planned the absolute worst for his family, his hometown, and his sect. So no, he shouldn't trust some creature like him. But up until now, Shen Yuan seemed to have put at least a bit of faith in him. They had tea and talked about literature classics like they were friends. Shen Yuan's warmth and big, gentle eyes spelled it out for him, he thought.

He must've read it all wrong, because Shen Yuan's been playing with him all along. Luo Binghe wasn't about to let himself get played again. Not since—

“Pray tell, what exactly did my old shizun tell A-Yuan?”

“Oh, Binghe don't worry! I'm on your side. I know how A-Die is like, he doesn't get along well with others and he has a hard time guiding disciples in a way that won't leave them an impression that he thinks them worthless. I believe there has been some misunderstanding between the two of you.”

“... I should ask again. What does A-Yuan know?”

“Of course, I didn't outright say I knew you— I asked him if he had any juvenile disciples that he once had trouble with. He said he did, around the same time as you once told me, and that he was glad for your, um, demise. Just with that, it's clear my A-Die had wronged you back then. I know his extremities were disproportionately worse before. And it's been hundreds of years, I might not recognize the father who has raised me due to how much he's changed. So, since then, I've been trying to figure out what he's done to you. I thought that maybe I could help you let go of your resentment. It's hard not to ignore, you know.”

The whole time, Luo Binghe tried to grasp the realization that kind, adorable, awfully considerate Shen Yuan knew that he's planning to take revenge on his dear father. If so, why hasn't he informed Shen Qingqiu to imprison him again? Or Yue Qingyuan? 

Or does Shen Yuan truly believe he could cure his maddened state of mind that's only driven by hatred and want for chaos?

“Let go ? You don't understand what you're saying. I am incapable of letting go.”

It's been hundreds of years after all.

“You may seem to think that, but nothing's ever permanent. Incapability isn't a thing! If you believe it to be so, then it is or it will be.”

Luo Binghe can't believe he was even listening to this. He could teleport right now, away from Shen Yuan's big glistening, infuriatingly sincere eyes and gentle words that, when coming from the unicorn, seemed like the only truth in the universe.

“I’ve no patience to indulge in your pony nonsense, Shen Yuan.”

“But you're half-pony, too, Binghe.”

“Oh, I’m nothing like you. Or your friends.”

“Binghe, I wouldn't want you to be anything other than yourself. But your origins are just as true as your passions. You should embrace both; let yourself feel.”

Shen Yuan stepped towards him.

“Don’t come any closer. Shen Yuan— you! Another step and I swear you'll be sorry.”

Only, Shen Yuan didn't halt, and his eyebrows deepened in an empathy only he could possess, Luo Binghe thought painfully.

“I’m here to help, Binghe.”

And because he felt like he had to prove an agonizing point, he suddenly let his true form be realized. In an instant, he towered over Shen Yuan. The suppressed aura made itself known and it exuded everywhere around the treehouse.

Luo Binghe looked down, eyes testing and heart hammering.

In no time, but it also seemed like forever, Shen Yuan reached him and extended a hoof next to his monstrous claw.

“Let me help you, please?”

He thought he knew what to expect but Shen Yuan knew how to surprise him still. The unicorn’s expression never faltered as it showed what he really thought of Luo Binghe, that he never changed his mind about him, that he truly only wanted to help. And that— Luo Binghe did not even know where to begin with that.

Could he trust Shen Yuan's sincerity, he'd have to test it out himself, but, more importantly, can he trust himself with Shen Yuan?

He changed back so Shen Yuan could hug him properly without straining himself.

“A-Yuan, I—”

“I understand, Binghe.”

“You do? Truly..?”

“Yes, and I'm always here for you. We are friends, aren't we?”

A friend.

Shen Yuan’s friend.

Yes. He could try being one.

“We are. Thank you, A-Yuan.”

Day by day, he has gotten increasingly content with having Shen Yuan by his side. If he wasn’t lying to himself, he’d say he’s happy, even. But Luo Binghe only allowed himself to feel a few certain emotions at a time before he loses any semblance or reign of control.

Luo Binghe likes Shen Yuan. A lot. Spontaneously, and dangerously so.

Spontaneous in a way heat builds up faster than it can escape, igniting sparks as he and everything he’s ever known and believed in is caught by the fire with no other choice but to succumb to the burning embers of which resulted to a change so significant and, despite his past aversions, now welcomed.

But ironically and at the same time, he’d also describe it like he is rusting iron. The conversion is just as slow as it is immensely transcendent; he feels the warmth escaping Shen Yuan’s being slowly seeping to and from his monstrous claws and paws up to his ragged heartbeat and pointed horn. The process occurs on its own as he finds himself slowly converting into something not unlike himself but unmistakably better for Shen Yuan, if he was to stay by his side like this and always.

Change is a funny thing. Luo Binghe’s guarding their current state of life with fiery determination.

So, Luo Binghe’s paranoid, to say the least.

That's why, when he had overheard Shen Yuan's nosy, loud, childishly overbearing ponies he calls his friends talk about separating them—

Well, one could imagine how a three hundred year old demon of chaos would react to such a matter.

He heard Mu Qingfang’s panicked screeching, unlike the earth pony’s usually calm demeanor.

“I’m telling you! I was delivering the herbal teas Shen Yuan requested when Luo Binghe, if that's even his name, transformed into something more than half of Shen Yuan’s size and it didn't seem he minded— but we all know he had set the bar pretty low regarding what's dangerous and what's not. Or whose.”

The scene that the earth pony must be talking about was only moments ago, when he had indulged Shen Yuan’s curiosity and let him examine his wings. He had thoroughly enjoyed the probing just as much as Shen Yuan, perhaps even more.

He had abruptly left the unicorn— who was too engrossed by the information and detailed drawings he had just collected— as he spotted the green earth pony running away with a basket of tea packets left on the pavement outside the treehouse.

“Alright this guy has to go,” Wei Qingwei had started, chin up and with such conviction.

Qi Qingqi backed it up. “Yeah, he's done no good here. And for Yuanyuan.”

Of course, by now, the ponies had already suspected him as the cause of their constant torments. The strange happenings only started after he arrived after all, of course they're suspicious, but not smart enough to scrounge for significant enough clues that might've led back to him. 

The lack of evidence didn't stop Liu Qingge from forming an evidence board, though. Just a bunch of pictures and squibbles and red lines that ultimately led back to each other and nothing at the same time. Luo Binghe made it a habit of stalking anyone significant in Shen Yuan's life to keep tabs on them, so when he saw the sorry excuse of an evidence board, he didn't try to suppress the urge of messing with the pegasus by alternating the red threads and changing whichever picture they led. 

The thing was, Liu Qingge never even suspected a change and continued pondering and furrowing his brows uselessly in front of it. 

Liu Qingge felt a vein pop. “Oh, so now he's a threat; somepony who shouldn't be here. Like I've been saying since he's arrived? Anypony remember that?”

“Oh, shut it, you—” Qi Qingqi snapped, “How could we have known he was that kind of off? You were only wary of him because you were jealous you weren't Yuanyuan’s only friend back in Cang Qiong!”

Mu Qingfang groaned, “Qingqi, don't even start—”

“ME? Jealous of him!?” Liu Qingge seethed. 

The pegasus was about to state a list disapproving that notion, to which the unicorn would only dismiss with a roll of her eyes, until Shang Qinghua made them get back on track.

“Um, guys, kinda not the main issue here. As of now we need to think of how to stop Luo Binghe! We should probably warn Yue Qingyuan and Shen Qing—”

“Will you now?”

And then, just moments later, Shen Yuan found Luo Binghe humorously toying with his friends.

Li Qingge, submerged and desperately splashing about in a deep made-pool of water, had his wings tied with cables whose keys are dangling up above him like a forbidden fruit, along with his Cheng Luan. Qi Qingqi’s running from a chocolate goo that throws her splotches of brown, syrupy chocolate onto her peerlessly purple mane. Mu Qingfang’s tied up in vines that, for once, the earth pony didn't seem keen to examine. Wei Qingwei's induced in some sort of state that was brought by ominous dark clouds that’re definitely ladened by something alcoholic. And the demon of chaos didn't even need to do something with Shang Qinghua, he's already scared out of his wits to try or even fathom running away!

“Binghe!?”

The chaos stopped, for a moment, but everypony didn't bother fooling themselves that this lapse would last.

Luo Binghe offered a dashing grin, “A-Yuan! This one didn't expect you. Did you miss me so soon?”

“Binghe, what's this? Don’t give me that look—! Explain yourself!”

He continued to smile docilely, content to ignore the suffering ponies, but his Shen Yuan’s looking at him all weird— he's never regarded Luo Binghe with that look before. Luo Binghe found that exceedingly strange, he had once thought the unicorn incapable of such intensity other than his love for critiquing trashy, trope-conforming novels Shang Qinghua supplied for him.

“Oh, them? Don't get too upset, A-Yuan, but I heard them hatching out a plan to separate the two of us apart. Isn't that just awful of them? How could A-Yuan’s friends betray him like that? But it's of no matter worrying after, your Binghe's taking care of it.” Remembering what he was supposed to be doing, the draconequus began where he had left out just moments before Shen Yuan's arrival. “I’ll be back just in time for tea after!”

“What— Binghe, stop whatever that is you're doing!”

“A-Yuan, you don't seem to understand. Your friends were planning to take you away from me. Of all the offenses they could make against me…” they just had to choose the one that would ensure their demise.

Liu Qingge couldn't take it any more, being forced to listen to this conversation. “Shen Yuan, what the fuck are you still doing here?! Run!” 

Luo Binghe’s expression darkened but he didn't do anything (yet) but continued looking at Shen Yuan. Searching for something.

“Binghe, let them go. I’m sure Qingge and the others only misunderstood.”

Liu Qingge scoffed, “Misunderstood what? That demon’s clearly up to no good and you’re only fixated on him because he’s some creature you don’t understand!”

Despite the pegasus’ sorry state, Shen Yuan glared at him for his words. “Don’t call him that— Binghe’s a friend!”

Mu Qingfang supplied, “Yuanyuan, you don’t even know what he is…”

“Or what he’s capable of!” Exclaimed Qi Qingqi.

Wei Qingwei reluctantly said, “Are you truly believing some creature over your own friends? We only want what’s best for you, Shen Yuan.”

Liu Qingge continued, vigorously trying to change his stubborn friend’s mind. “Snap out of it, Shen Yuan! Activate the emergency talisman His Highness gave you—”

With Shen Yuan’s friends’ urging the unicorn to hurry up and send a distress signal to alert Yue Qingyuan and Shen Qingqiu, something dark and suppressed escaped Luo Binghe’s innermost being.

They are taking him away from Luo Binghe. His only friend. And when he’s only beginning to understand what friendship was.

They were fools if they thought he would let that happen.

“Guys, don’t be ridiculous! I’m not alerting my parents over this petty squable—”

“Squable?!” Liu Qingge felt another vein pop.

Qi Qingqi couldn’t believe this. “He’s torturing us!”

“— Which only happened because you won’t hear him out! You see, Binghe’s sensitive to such things and he’s new to certain concepts like having friends. He heard you talking about separating us, didn't he? That must be why he’s so agitated…” Shen Yuan quickly supplied, “But it isn't your fault! You didn't know! But now you do, and we can all talk about this civilly and calmly. Right, Binghe?”

Luo Binghe was strangely quiet, with his face not betraying whatever that's happening and churning inside his mind. Shen Yuan didn't take it as a good sign.

“Binghe..?”

“This Lord has thought long and hard about this, A-Yuan,” He said finally.

With a flick of his fingers, one by one his friends’ torture specific methods dissapeared but before Shen Yuan could thank Luo Binghe for understanding he already had his friends enclosed in a spherical ball of buzzing energy that kept them afloat high up in the air but also, with no doubt, could also have them plummeting to their deaths.

Liu Qingge’s wings were still tied in cables and some wouldn't even consider Shang Qinghua a pegasus, for he’s afraid of taking flight ever since he experienced bullying as a foal. That, and he wouldn't be able to carry more than half his own weight before he even tried saving somepony else because of the size of his wings.

Ignoring the screams and protests, Luo Binghe closed in on Shen Yuan.

He continued, “What could I do to ignite a wrath from Shen Qingqiu so great that he'd never be able to recover? What could I possibly take from my old master, that's more important to him than his title? His riches? His sect? His disciples? His husband?”

Wei Qingwei mumbled, “Great, he’s the all-conquering kind of off too.”

Luo Binghe ignored the further side comments. “Oh, but then I found you. You're so perfect for me, A-Yuan. You're everything I've ever wanted. It just so happens that Shen Qingqiu just had to be your father, but do know that I would've gladly found you all the same even without your blood ties. We are fated, after all.”

Screams of “Shen Yuan!” and “Get away from here!” were evident but above all was Liu Qingge’s wrath.

“Release me, you demon! You’re a coward for not wanting a fair fight!”

Shen Yuan internally cringed for as much as he liked his friend and admired his determination as a knight and a flyer, he doesn't think anyone could stop Luo Binghe at the moment. Even Yue Qingyuan would be having trouble, he thought gravely.

“Binghe, you aren’t yourself. Release them and we can talk about this.”

Luo Binghe towered over him like before, but only now did Shen Yuan realize how scary his friend could be. He tried not to show fear, but it was hard not to. Still, this was only Binghe. He clung to the thought like a lifeline.

“Did you seriously think I’d give up everything I’m known for, for you? Did you honestly believe I’m not beyond saving, A-Yuan? Your friends seem to think so. If only you had listened to them, then maybe you wouldn't have had me so crazed and enthralled.”

“But didn't you say— I thought you had—”

“A-Yuan… Did you truly think I’d give up avenging that bastard scum because you simply told me not to? Oh, A-Yuan, you're so incredibly cute. I can't wait to have you by my side, ruling all the realms.”

Somewhere in the distance, he could hear a faint trace of Shang Qinghua’s voice— who's suspended in mid-air and could plummet down like a pancake at any moment, mind you— saying, “I did not remember writing some kind of age-gap danmei of all things.”

And, even more distant, “Qinghua, be quiet for once! What are you even saying?”

Although he's acutely aware of his friends’ line of danger, Shen Yuan paid no attention to their ramblings. Everything zeroed out to Luo Binghe’s red, red eyes, his clawed finger twirling around the mist that held his friends’ lives, his eerily smug and calm demeanor as if he's not threatening everything Shen Yuan has ever known and came to love only just recently. 

He snapped.

“Are you insane ?”

Enraged, Liu Qingge let out a scream, “That’s what I’ve been trying to tell you!” No one regarded him.

“This lord thought you considered him your friend? You should have known that by now. In fact, that's all anyone knows about me.”

But he's wrong, Shen Yuan thought. That's not all there is to him. Even now, as he has all his friends mid-air inside a black ball of smoke, Shen Yuan still believed not everything Luo Binghe had shown and told him were mere lies. He still saw Binghe as Binghe.

After the days they've spent together, he couldn't see him as anything less than or more than the Binghe he knew. He’s not a pathetically obsessed lovelorn fool (numerous people would be willing to debate him on that, including Luo Binghe himself), nor is he a crazed tyrant hell-bent on making his A-Die suffer beyond retribution.

Those are none of his Binghe, the true Luo Binghe, not just the extreme emotions he possessed and honed like a sword for battle through the years of neglect and abuse that he must have had to endure to live another day. His Binghe needs to know that there is more than just being torturously sad or immensely angry for all his life.

Shen Yuan also knows Binghe had only just discovered another emotion that he felt just as extremely as his sadness and anger: a feeling he’d never considered before— love. And just like his other emotions, Binghe’s love is being altered and honed by his heart-demons to make sense of the powerful intrusion. It's only because of his severely distressed and traumatized state of mind, that turned an emotion like love into something dark more akin to obsession. 

Luo Binghe may not know of this, or did not allow himself to feel it as it is, but Shen Yuan knows love from friendship in its purest of forms. Luo Binghe craves friendship, something he's never genuinely gotten before, and had never allowed himself to have or want until he had met Shen Yuan, the first person to ever claim to be his friend.

Shen Yuan hated how aware he is, that he could analyze what's wrong with (Luo Binghe) the situation because he's the only one right here and now that could fix (Luo Binghe) this whole ordeal.

Why does it always have to be him !?

“I’m not your friend,” He said through gritted teeth. 

“What was that, A-Yuan? Your friends are so noisy up there.”

“Not. Your. FRIEND!” 

What? He is a bit pissed off. Don't blame him for raising his voice! His friends are literally being tossed about, suspended up in the air like they're on a ferries wheel with no seatbelts!

Luo Binghe only looked at him, a bit dazed, as if he had never thought Shen Yuan was capable of shouting. Much less shout at him.

In his shock, the twirling and tossing about had stopped too. 

Shen Yuan quickly spelled cushions and softened their landing. Afraid Binghe would direct his anger on them once more, he thought of a barrier-shield spell and casted it just as quickly as Liu Qingge was about to charge at Luo Binghe with his spiritual sword unsheathed and at full speed.

Liu Qingge collided with the barrier-shield’s hard interior and before he could hit the ground, a cushion made just moments ago caught his second fall not even a minute later, because of course Shen Yuan knew that would happen.

After recovering from Shen Yuan’s outburst, Luo Binghe regarded him with dark, dangerous eyes for a moment. And only scoffed. 

“Did A-Yuan think he had a say on the matter? A-Yuan’s my friend. Mine!”

What a pony-foal! Is this half-draconequus really three hundred years old?

Shen Yuan only huffed and turned around, arms crossed, “You might say that, but Luo Binghe’s certainly not my friend. He never will be again!”

Luo Binghe could have probably been spelled back to stone imprisonment right now and everyone wouldn't have noticed a difference, the way he’d gotten deathly still and unmoving. Except for the frantic darting of his pupils.

“... Does A-Yuan really mean that?”

“When have I ever not meant anything, Luo Binghe?”

Every syllable of his full name were like shards of glass puncturing his insides. Luo Binghe felt light-headed.

“But A-Yuan… you said you're my friend. Back then. Did A-Yuan lie ?”

“Were you not listening? As I said, when have I ever not meant anything? Of course I meant it, then. This Shen Yuan was also committed in fulfilling his promise of helping you and keeping you safe. But, as you neither hold any respect for our friendship, and as it seems you're plenty capable of defending yourself, it's obvious I no longer hold any further obligation to you. I kept my word, after all, it is you, My Lord, that severed this tie.”

My Lord. 

How dare Shen Yuan address him as such, devoid of any unfamiliarity that’s to be expected from a relationship like theirs! Like he's— like he's not his closest friend?! As if just yesterday, he hadn't been the one to sing Luo Binghe praises of his cooking. As if they hadn't woken up under the same roof. As if Luo Binghe isn't the only one who could see Shen Yuan’s expression clouded with stubborn sleepiness that just wouldn't stop clinging to the sluggish pony until after Luo Binghe coaxed him to fully wake up. As if—

“Don’t call me that.” He heard himself speak without thinking. 

Shen Yuan regarded him, and oh how lucky it is to be regarded by him, but the lack of feeling plagued him still. Gutted him.

“Call you what, My Lord?” 

“That ! I’m your friend!”

In the middle of everything that had happened, he hadn't realized he had transformed back to his pony form. Subconsciously wanting to look as unlike as the feared draconequus he used to think he should be.

Luo Binghe dropped to the ground right next to Shen Yuan’s hooves. He looked up, eyes dripping with tears and clouded with his reverence for the pony in front of him. For the only pony he'd ever want, or allow himself, to kneel to.

“I’m your Binghe!”

Shen Yuan looked down on him coldly, “Are you?”

“Yes! Yes, I am! I've only ever been yours, A-Yuan. I didn't mean to distress you, truly. Please. Don't be mad at me anymore? Say I'm still your f-friend?”

“But my friends don't hurt each other.”

“Then I swear to never hurt them.”

“That’s good and all, but my friends also wouldn't plan to enact revenge on my own father through myself and putting all of Cang Qiong in danger. No creature should, actually.”

“I’ve long since forgo that plan. Your Binghe would never put you in danger…”

“I fear you're only addressing the least of the problems here. How about all the foals and ponies in Cang Qiong?”

“They won’t be harmed.”

“Would Binghe let me deal with his A-Die’s wrongdoings for him?”

“I— what?”

“You heard me, Binghe.”

Luo Binghe, a half-draconequus that has lived for over three hundred years and ruled the realms in fire and tyranny, tried his best not to think of the fact that he's letting this young unicorn boss him around like a misbehaving foal.

More specifically, he did not think about how much he's enjoying it.

“A-Yuan would do that? To his own father?”

“Nothing too extreme. As your friend and as his son, I should have a say on the matter of how to deal with the fact that my father used to abuse a child. That's intolerable. I hate that Binghe had to go through all of that.”

He couldn't help letting out a whine. “A-Yuan…”

“Binghe, use your words.”

“To be by A-Yuan’s side, I’d gladly let him handle his own father. A-Yuan knows best.”

Shen Yuan finally smiled warmly, and all was suddenly so right and so perfect. 

“That’s good to hear.” Shen Yuan extended one hoof to gently ease his face upwards, and cooed, “Binghe's so good at being good now, aren't you?”

Yes, Luo Binghe was made for this and this alone.

“Only for A-Yuan.”

“Bro, that’s it?” Shang Qinghua stood dazed. “All Yuan’er had to do was sulk and he's suddenly all good and reformed?”

Wei Qingwei chuckled. “If I hadn't seen it all happen, I wouldn't believe it either.”

Qi Qingqi whipped her head and replied, “Fuck you mean see it all happen, you could barely make out anything up there. How many times did your dirty hooves obstruct my senses!”

“How can you be so sure it was MY hooves?”

“Because they were dirty??”

“Your senses were obstructed???”

“Oh, I would know your dirty hooves anywhere.”