In the Middle Of the Nightđ
-> Ao3 link is here.
-> Part Three is here.
Pairings : Bi-Han/ Sub-Zero x Reader, Kuai Liang/ Scorpion x Reader, Tomas Vrbada/ Smoke x Reader
Authorâs Note : Welcome to another long chapter, everyone! đđ» (Itâs about 11k words) Writing from Bi-Hanâs perspective was a bit of a challenge, as he wasnât always cooperative, but Iâm proud of how it turned out. As I did with Kuai Liang, I put my own twist on his powers. (He is touch sensitive) Also in this version, Iâve adjusted it so that despite the portrayal in MK1 where Bi-Han doesnât really see Tomas as part of the Lin Kuei, Iâve changed that here. Sharing the same trauma bonds people more closely, as my therapist once said, so Iâm using that here to bond them as brothers!
Hope you enjoy diving into it as much as I did writing it! Happy reading!â€ïž
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In the middle of the night,
Just call my name, Iâm yours to tame.
In the middle of the night,
In the middle of the night,
Iâm wide awake, I crave your taste.
CHAPTER FOUR : BI-HAN
Bi-Han had never liked to be touched or to touch others.
As a cryomancer, Bi-Han was unaffected by the cold itself. Yet, any touch, no matter how gentle, caused him intense discomfort, akin to frostbite searing through his skin. This peculiar sensitivity, despite his otherwise stoic demeanor, left him feeling isolated and disconnected from those around him. The only exceptions to this rule were Kuai Liang and Tomas, whose persistent presence he gradually grew accustomed to over time.
As the future grandmaster of the clan, Bi-Han knew he had to cope with this discomfort and eliminate any weaknesses that his enemies could exploit, just the thought was enough to make his nerves tense. In order for him to protect and maintain the future of his clan, he had to be perfect; he could not have a weakness. It was impossible for him to make mistakes like others because, at the end of the day, he would be solely responsible for the cost.
The temple of his clan, where he had spent every day since he first opened his eyes, was nestled among the mountains, at the edge of the forest, surrounded by towering rocks and fortified walls. Despite the bitter chill of the morning frost, Bi-Han emerged from his room before the sun had even begun its ascent, his cryomancer abilities shielding him from the biting cold that would incapacitate others. Today, the weather was particularly tumultuous, with fierce winds howling through the mountain passes, a harbinger of the impending snowstorm. Despite the harsh conditions, Bi-Han sought comfort in the discipline of his training, finding strength in the knowledge that one day he would inherit his fatherâs legacy and rule the clan with honor and power.
His hands sometimes fell apart because he worked long hours, his wounds bled nonstop for several days, his legs sometimes trembled, contracted, and ached from fatigue, but Bi-Han turned a blind eye to all of them. Although it is a fact that he was cruel to everyone, he was even more cruel to himself. The relentless pursuit of flawlessness drove him to push his body beyond its limits, disregarding the signs of strain and injury. It was as if his own well-being mattered little in comparison to the unyielding demands of his ambition.
More machine than man, Bi-Hanâs focus was solely on the future of his clan and the welfare of his brothers. As an assassin, emotional bonds were his greatest vulnerability and also a liability; enemies could use them as weapons against him. Despite this, Bi-Han made exceptions for Kuai Liang and Tomas. In the earlier days, he was wary of Tomas, seeing him as an outsider not yet fully integrated into the clan. However, Tomasâs unexpected achievements and unwavering loyalty gradually took him by surprise, earning his trust. However, Bi-Han never openly expressed his true feelings to either of his brothers. Emotions were shackles to him, vulnerabilities to use against him. He became adept at burying his emotions, concealing them beneath a facade of stoicism. Instead, he pushed their limits and often subjected them to his sharp tongue, all in the name of unlocking their full potential. Though he understood the underlying rationale for his strictness, Bi-Han avoided dwelling on it, choosing instead to bury those feelings deep within.
This transformation permeated his entire being over time. People shied away from confronting him, even avoiding making eye contact. Like his powers, his demeanor grew as frigid and merciless as ice itself. He concealed all traces of fear, weakness, and humanity behind the impenetrable walls he erected, never once allowing himself to glance back in their direction. The weight of leadership, burdened with its responsibilities and grim tasks, further solidified his detachment.
The day Bi-Han was appointed as the grandmaster of the Lin Kuei was etched in his memory like a knife drawn on ice. The flickering torchlight cast long shadows across the courtyard, the wind howling through the mountains, and everything cloaked in an icy chill. With the loss of his fatherâs life, his heart beat strongly in his chest as he officially took on his responsibility in a simple ceremony before the clan elders. He had worked for this moment for years, and now as he stood amidst the frozen landscape the satisfaction he felt was unlike anything he had ever experienced. As he accepted the leadership mantle, Bi-Han vowed to preserve the clanâs traditions, to lead with wisdom and strength, and to protect its heritage against all odds.
But everything changed during their ill-fated mission to retrieve Quan Chiâs amulet. Bi-Han had always believed the trials he faced were diffucult, the stress thickening the walls he had constructed while honing his coping mechanisms. He often forgot he possessed feelings at all. Yet being ensnared as a love slave within the pages of a book presented a trial unlike any other he had encountered before.
Bi-Han contorted in agony as searing pain enveloped his body, his heart and mind consumed by swirling darkness. Despite his fierce resistance, the curse proved relentless, its cruel grasp tightening with each passing moment. Every fiber of his being screamed in protest as he fought against the overwhelming force, but it was as if he battled against an invisible, unyielding foe. As he writhed in torment, Bi-Han felt the tendrils of his sanity slipping away, replaced by an insatiable hunger beyond his control. In that moment, he knew he was no longer the master of his own fate, but ensnared by the caprices of lustâa fate more tormenting than death for a man who had spent his life mastering the art of control.
Bi-Han initially fought with every fiber of his being, honed as he was in the ways of an assassin since childhood. Taking a life had become as natural as breathing for him; he executed his duties without hesitation, always looking forward without a flicker of remorse. But this situation was unlike any other. Despite his desire to confront and overcome this weakness, physical contact had always unsettled him. The myriad sensations overwhelmed him, hindering his ability to focus and defend himself.
The relentless persistence of the curse, turning this discomfort into a constant torment, pushed Bi-Han to his limits as never before. Like he always did, he also concealed this vulnerability, never allowing it to surface and be used against him. Yet now, this situation had brought about an unforeseen consequence; nearly every master of the book who came and went sought to âtameâ him.
Bi-Han was well aware of his challenging temperament, he bared his teeth, lashed out with insults, refusing to allow anyone to assert control over him. He was not a possession to be claimed; he was an assassin and the grandmaster of an esteemed clan, determined to safeguard his reputation and honor at all costs. However, the curse spared no effort in testing him, as it did in all things.
Given his heightened sensitivity to touch, fulfilling their desires proved more difficult for Bi-Han compared to his brothers. Coupled with his abrasive personality, he inevitably stood out as the outlier among them. Most of the masters relished the challenge of attempting to tame him. Despite his burning desire to unleash his fury upon them and spill their blood, the protective barrier surrounding them thwarted his efforts each time, leaving him writhing in agony.
He refused to be controlled like a mindless animal, he would sooner take his own life than submit. It was not in his nature to surrender without a fight, to yield until his last breath. This defiance was quickly understood, but when the punishments were directed at his brothers instead of himself, Bi-Han found himself compelled to submit, despite the vehement protests of his soul.
The methods used to tame him differed from those employed with Tomas and Kuai Liang. Bi-Han lacked the knowledge of how to navigate intimate interactions, particularly with the opposite sex. His life had been consumed by rigorous training and duties, leaving no room or desire for physical contact. After all he had always recoiled from touch, never seeking it or showing any curiosity about it. Focusing proved exceedingly difficult for Bi-Han, especially initially, as he struggled to regulate his body temperature. Prolonged contact resulted in searing pain and burns on his skin.
In the room, two women surrounded him, one beneath him as he drove into her with hard, fast thrusts, eager to end the encounter as soon as possible. The other, his current master, positioned herself behind him, her arms coiling around his body like a serpent, her hands grasping his pecs and trailing down to his abdomen and upper legs, where his muscles painfully contracted under her touch. She watched him intently, issuing commands to satisfy their pleasure, her tongue tracing along his jawline with small, biting movements. The air was heavy with their mingled scent, their moans grating on his nerves. Sex and sweat permeated the room, each touch searing pain into his skin, overwhelming him and making it difficult to focus. His muscles tensed, veins bulging visibly beneath his skin, and he felt trapped in this hellish place with no means of escape.
Over time, he had learned to grit his teeth, ignore the pain, and maintain control over his body. The burns on his skin had decreased and eventually vanished altogether, yet Bi-Han derived no pleasure from it. The constant tingling sensation, like millions of tiny needles dancing across his skin, persisted, causing him to clench his jaw in frustration. His demeanor grew even more obstinate, his anger simmering beneath the surface. He harbored a particular resentment towards himself for his inability to put an end to the situation. How much longer could he allow his honor to be trampled underfoot? Time continued to pass, yet he remained entrenched in the same place, consumed by turmoil.
His fists clenched tightly at his sides as he surveyed the vast landscape before him. Departing the cramped apartment before sunrise had become routine; he detested confined spaces, and the apartment felt as suffocating as a doghouse. With a determined effort, he forced his nerves to remain steady, inhaling deeply the crisp, cool morning air.
A month had elapsed since their emergence from the book, yet nothing transpired as he had anticipated. He had expected his brothers to exhibit a sense of sensibility, maintaining their customary distance and aloofness, as they did with all other masters of the book, except Leilani. Tomas, the most naive among them, was quick to extend trust and belief, a habit Bi-Han begrudgingly tolerated, especially after the events with Leilani. Yet, Tomas seemed to revert to his trusting nature in your presence, sporting a foolish grin and soft, welcoming gaze. While Bi-Han could comprehend Tomasâs susceptibility due to his youth, he struggled to fathom why the hell Kuai Liang chose to share the same fate. He was logical, cautious, and maintained a calculated distance from others, knowing the dangers his powers could inflict. Although he had mastered control over his abilities, ingrained habits die hard, and Kuai Liang remained vigilant against causing intentional harm beneath his stern demeanor.
The fact that both of them succumbed to your influence, and so swiftly, perplexed Bi-Han. From his observations, your approach mirrored Leilaniâs initial demeanorâcalm, gentle, and devoid of authoritative commands. Yet, Bi-Han remained convinced it was all a facade, awaiting the moment when you would reveal your true intentions. Patience was not his forte, but once he set his sights on his prey, he would not relent, biding his time for a misstep to expose your true nature. Despite his brothersâ failures, he remained resolute in his distance from you, determined not to fall to the same mistake. He had sworn an oath to end this and had no intention of breaking it. When two months pass, heâll remain as the sole fortress in this situation, committed to restoring his brothers to their former selves. Whatever game you were playing, Bi-Han was resolved not to allow you to reduce them to rubble. It had happened once before, and he would not permit history to repeat itself.
A few days prior, he had successfully contacted Sektor via your mobile phone. Sektor, one of the clanâs foremost assassins, possessed unparalleled expertise in electronic devices, often partnering with Cyrax on missions. In the ten years since their entrapment within the book, this was the first time Bi-Han had managed to establish contact with them. Contacting his clan had been a daunting task, as previous masters had imposed stringent bans, subjecting them to severe punishment if disobeyed. Enduring the pain himself was one thing, but risking the safety of Kuai Liang and Tomas was another. They had always supported each other, relying solely on their own trust and dependence.
Sektor mentioned that he would come once the connection was established. He wanted to verify for himself if the person who contacted him was truly the grandmaster of their clan, with his brothers, also second-in-commands, accompanying him. Bi-Han couldnât blame Sektor for his caution; he would have taken the same approach if he were in Sektorâs position.
As the sun slowly cast its warm glow upon the awakening city, Bi-Han rose to his feet. A few blocks away, he silently descended from the rooftop, using the fire escape to make his descent. Despite the passing years, his body still tensed with apprehension at the thought of returning. He refused to acknowledge the draining effects of the curse upon him, despising every aspect of itâhis weakness, his submission to its power, his dependency. These traits clashed with the values he had imposed upon himself, and he loathed them to his core.
Upon returning to the apartment, he sought to enter without a sound, wary of your keen senses that could detect even the slightest noise. Your ears were too sharp for a human; you could easily hear him coming and turn your attention to him. Despite his attempts to push you away with his brusque demeanor, you never wavered in your kindness. A plate of food always awaited him, set aside with care, and despite his biting words, you never cast him out or administered punishment. Bi-Han couldnât comprehend your motivesâwhy werenât you angered by his actions?
In the days following their emergence from the book, it became apparent that you harbored fear towards him and his brothers. Your movements and speech were cautious, tinged with timidity. However, as time passed, this fear seemed to dissipate, particularly in your interactions with Tomas and Kuai Liang. Though you maintained a distance from him, your influence over him was profound. A single word from your lips could bring him to his knees. Yet, even though you refrained from wielding that power, Bi-Han saw no reason to hold back from testing your boundaries. He yearned for you to reveal your true self, to discard the mask you wore. With each passing day, his nerves stretched taut like an arrow, poised for release.
A deep conversation flowed between the three of you, so engrossed that neither you nor his brothers heard his silent entrance. Bi-Han observed quietly from his position, unmoving. In the kitchen, Kuai Liang and you were preparing breakfast. It was no surprise to see his brother immersed in the task, given his secret interest in food, but witnessing him so relaxed and at peace beside you was an image Bi-Han hadnât seen in a long time. Meanwhile, Tomas lounged in one of the chairs at the kitchen island, engaged in animated chatter about movies while absently stroking the kitten perched on his lap. The faint strains of music from your phone wafted through the apartment, adding a tranquil ambiance to the scene.
Struggling to contain his anger, Bi-Han gritted his teeth at the sight of his brothersâ expressions. After all they had endured, how could they choose to trust again? Had none of them learned their damn lesson? When they faced the harsh realities of the real world once more, it would be too late. The book had stripped them of their identities as assassins, reducing them to mere instruments for the satisfaction of its owner. This was the bitter truth even if the owner had no desire for them; such was the insidious nature of the book, compelling its wielder to use them.
Despite the cramped confines of the apartment and the thin walls that allowed certain sounds to permeate, Bi-Han detected no indication of intimacy between you and his brothers. Your interactions typically consisted of innocent touches and kisses; he saw no demand for more. However, he knew it was only a matter of time before this changed, as he had witnessed such scenarios before.
Your body would ignite with primal urges, gradually clouding your mind until all you could think of was desire. As you resisted, the need would intensify, evolving from a flicker into an inferno, causing you agony, prompting you to seek relief using his and his brothersâ bodies. Once this barrier was breached, the rest would follow more easily. A few of the past masters, aware of their capabilities, hesitated to utilize them even under the bookâs protection. However, when consumed by desire to the point of losing their sanity, they would resort to using their bodies for release, realizing that they wielded true power in such moments. They were no longer individuals with thoughts, wishes, or desires; they were merely slaves to be used at the whim of another. Bi-Han felt dehumanized, reduced to a mere object, easily discarded once his purpose was served.
The first to sense his presence was the pesky cat, leaping from Tomasâs lap in a frantic dash, its tiny legs propelling it as fast as they could go. Bi-Han restrained himself, resisting the urge to freeze the creature in its tracks. For some inexplicable reason, the cat seemed fixated on him, adding to the already cramped quarters of the apartment as he struggled to fend off its insistent attempts to climb onto his lap.
âBi-Han, when did you get here? Hey, Ninja, wrong way, girl. Come here.â
As Tomas rose to retrieve the cat, both Kuai Liang and you turned, your gazes meeting his. Bi-Han observed the fleeting spark in your eyes, your lips parting as if to speak, only to halt at the last moment, offering instead a timid smile before refocusing on your task. Neither he nor his brothers missed this subtle exchange. While Kuai Liang observed you silently, brows furrowed in contemplation, Tomasâs initial concern flickered briefly in his gray eyes before morphing into indifference tinged with a hint of resentment upon meeting Bi-Hanâs gaze.
Cradling the persistent kitten attempting to climb his legs, Tomas muttered softly under his breath, audible only to him.
âThis is your doing. Are you satisfied now?â
Bi-Hanâs brow furrowed deeply as he absorbed Tomasâs response, a pointed glance conveying his dissatisfaction as a muscle twitched in his jaw. It seemed absurd to feel unsettled now that you were finally grasping his cues. He had grown weary of your saccharine words, always probing if he was alright or offering assistance that he did not seek. Your sincerity failed to sway him; instead, your persistent interference felt like an unwelcome intrusion. So while he should have been content with your quiet acknowledgment, Bi-Han found himself strangely different. It was as if he hadnât anticipated you relenting and giving him what he desired; instead, he was met with a hollow emptiness.
Instead of responding to Tomas, Bi-Han shoved him with his shoulder and strode past, trying not to indulge in the tantalizing aroma wafting from the kitchen. Judging by what you and Kuai Liang were preparing, it seemed to be an Asian breakfast, the nostalgic scent evoking memories.
âAre you hungry?â Kuai Liang asked, casting a sidelong glance at him. Bi-Han made a small affirmative sound. Among them, he could endure hunger the longest; his metabolism was slower than his brothersâ, allowing him to subsist on just water for weeks without issue. Especially after the curse, he often forfeited his meals to Kuai Liang, who needed sustenance more urgently. The strong survived, after all.
However, Bi-Han noticed that his meals were often laced with aphrodisiac-style drugs, subtly altering his senses and clouding his mind. At those moments, it was as if his body was enveloped in a thick fog; his hands and feet became unnaturally heavy, as if weighed down by lead. His senses dulled, his vision blurring at the edges, and his thoughts slowed to a crawl, as if his brain was wrapped in layers of cotton wool.
He resisted eating to avoid vulnerability, refusing to succumb to such manipulation again. Yet, you always reserved a plate for him, untouched by others, even when he abstained for days. It was as if you understood his reluctance and respected his choice.
Almost as though you had read his thoughts, when you put the plate you had prepared in front of him, Bi-Han lifted his head and looked at you again, meeting your gaze. You werenât looking at him the way you looked at his brothers; it couldnât be said that you were afraid, but there was a bit of underlying timidity in your gaze and a sadness that he couldnât understand. In earlier days, Bi-Han was filled with terrible rage because he thought you were pitying him. However, with time and observation, he realized that he was mistaken in this belief.
âDo you want some green tea?â you asked, and Bi-Han silently confirmed. As you turned to prepare it, he felt a slight weight on his leg. Without needing to glance down, he sighed inwardly, ignoring the catâs plaintive mewls.
âNinja! Are you gambling with life? Come here.â
âHow difficult can it be to control this pest?â Bi-Han remarked, breaking his silence and turning to Tomas, who had been holding the cat.
âWould you believe itâs harder than some of the missions Iâve been on? Itâs so tiny, I feel like Iâll crush it if I hold it too tightly,â Tomas replied, eliciting a chuckle from you. Setting down the cup, you moved to pick up the cat, cradling it gently in your arms as it wriggled in protest.
ââCome here sweetie, your breakfast is here.ââ
Bi-Han kept his gaze fixed on you as he took a sip of his tea. Watching you care for the little cat in your arms, he couldnât deny the sense of peace that settled over the room, despite his reluctance to admit it. The subtle smile on your face, the tender look in your eyes as you cradled the kitten with such delicacy, as if afraid of causing it harm⊠These details felt genuine and convincing, casting doubt on his previous perceptions of you. Despite the lingering uncertainties swirling in his mind, for a brief moment, Bi-Han entertained the idea of reconsidering them, but quickly dismissed the thought to a remote corner of his mind. With a hardened gaze, he reminded himself that pondering such matters was futile; their time here was limited, and he had more pressing issues to attend toâsuch as finding a way to put an end to this curse.
ââOh, somebodyâs pretty hungry,ââ you said with a chuckle, watching the kitten eat with gusto.
ââWhen is she ever full?ââ Kuai Liang hugged you from behind, planting a small kiss on your cheek as he observed the cat over your shoulder. Bi-Han struggled to contain his disdain, unable to stomach his brothersâ easy affection for you. Seeing them so tender was unfamiliar; he hadnât known they harbored such warmth. Tomas was mild-mannered, Kuai Liang a mediatorâthey both possessed kindness, but this was different. It felt as if he were witnessing something sacred, untainted, and pure.
He also didnât want to admit it, but looking at both of you, you looked good. Covered by his brotherâs arms, you seemed soft and vulnerable, but also well-protected by the muscular arms, shielding you from any harm. You were almost radiating with a gentle warmth, soaking Kuai Liang with the same energy, making him more relaxed than ever.
ââYouâre right, she has an appetite that defies her small body. Iâve started to worry that I wonât be able to keep up.ââ you said with another chuckle, affectionately nuzzling Kuai Liang and placing a loving kiss on his cheek in return.
ââCan you blame her after what sheâs been through on the street?ââ Tomas interjected, popping a slice of peach into his mouth from where he sat.
ââTrue, sheâs been through a lot,ââ you acknowledged, turning to Tomas with a look that was a blend of sadness and warmth. ââBut sheâs in good hands now.ââ
ââWe wonât let her go hungry again, weâll make sure of that.ââ Kuai Liang affirmed, a gentle smile lighting up his face. The spark in his eyes, so reminiscent of yours, exuded hope and vitality, as if each glance at you reignited his spirit.
Bi-Han listened in silence, his facial expression betraying his inner turmoil. This situation diverged from anything that had defined their lives for years. He could already see his brothers becoming attached to your presence. Your natural demeanor, particularly your smile, never failed to catch Bi-Hanâs attention, offering a glimmer of hope he couldnât dare to believe. He wished he could feel the same; waking up without the curse looming overhead, knowing he could return to his clan, should have been a comforting notion.
ââYou talk as if youâre going to keep this cat here,ââ Bi-Han remarked after a while. There was a brief silence as you wriggled out of Kuai Liangâs arms and reached for your own cup, giving the kitten a final stroke on the head.
ââSheâll stay here until I find her a good home, but my priority is to help her regain her strength and socialize,ââ you explained gently. ââMy budget is barely enough for myself, and I donât know what will happen if I canât find a job soon. Unfortunately, I canât meet the needs of a cat under these circumstances.â There was a hint of sadness in your voice, as if you had already grown attached to the little creature and were reluctant to let go. Bi-Hanâs gaze shifted to the kitten, standing a little apart from you.
The kitten was indeed tiny, easily overlooked if one wasnât careful where they stepped. Yet, it possessed a courage that belied its size. Despite Bi-Hanâs imposing stature and deep voice, the kitten persistently sought his attention, jumping at his ankles, meowing, doing everything to engage him. Its bravery reminded Bi-Han of you, actuallyâ despite the biting words he hurled at you, you still sought help, a notion he struggled to comprehend. After all, they were total strangers to you, and there seemed to be nothing to gain in return. On the contrary, you stood to lose the power and control you had over them, something coveted by many but attainable only by you.
It seemed unbelievable that you would willingly abandon this control.
***
You left the house a short time ago for another job interview that you found couple days ago. They were all aware of your situation before you mentioned that the budget was tight. Even though there was a brave smile on your face, trying not to show your distress, Bi-Han could see all too well the underlying worries, as could his brothers. You werenât as adept at hiding it as you thought you were.
Thatâs why Tomas and Kuai Liang decided to take advantage of your absence and left the house right after you did. Since you gave them unlimited space to act as they wished, without giving them orders or prohibitions, his brothers decided to âshopâ at the grocery store to support youâthough their true intention was to steal. Tomas was extremely skilled at it when it came to stealth, thanks to the smoke magic. They wanted it to be a surprise for you when you came home, regardless of whether you got the job or not, to at least put a smile on your face, and they wanted to support you because they shared the house. Bi-Han didnât even try to stop them or reason with them; he found it quite pointless now. He had realized weeks ago that his warnings were useless. He could only protect himself in this matter.
Although he hoped to enjoy some quiet time alone at home, the pest wouldnât leave him alone for a moment. As danger signals emanated from all over his body, either the cat was too half-smart to understand it or it didnât care about the consequences. He didnât want to lock himself in the study; he was already locked in there when he wasnât going out. The moment he stepped out of the room, it grated on his nerves to see you and his brothers hanging out without a care, laughing and having fun.
When the kitten continued to cling to his ankles, squealing for the last five minutes without stopping, with a sound so thin that it almost bled his ears, Bi-Han growled, crouched down quickly, and grabbed the cat by the neck, lifting it to eye level with him. âWhat?! What do you want?â When the words burst from his lips almost like a roar, the silence he had longed for covered the room.
While the kitten stared at his face speechlessly, Bi-Han also breathed deeply and met the catâs gaze. But then something unexpected happened, when the cat started purring loudly and rubbed its small head against his chin, this time Bi-Han remained absurdly motionless. He shuddered with a strange feeling when the soft fur touched his chin. It wasnât hatred, but it was unfamiliar. It was the first time he had come into contact with a pet since childhood.
âSo, this is what it takes to keep you quiet, huh?ââ
The kitten let out a mew as if she understood his words, rubbed her head against him a little more, and when she started purring louder, Bi-Han felt the edges of his lips curl up to form a smile. Just like Tomas said, the kitten was tiny between his long fingers and his big hand. It was so easy to hurt her; he could have ended her life instantly with a little squeeze of his hand. But instead of doing this, without stopping the kittenâs purring for a moment, he pushed her small, soft, and imperceptibly light body into the area between his neck and shoulder, surprising even himself.
With the comfort of no one seeing him, Bi-Han collapsed on one of the seats and started stroking the little body with his other hand that was not holding the kitten. His actions were probably too careful to be funny to an outsider; he avoided ending the catâs life for the slightest mistake because the possibility of this was quite high. Bi-Han didnât know how long he had been sitting on the couch like that. When the kittenâs purring gradually decreased and finally stopped completely, he took her back into his lap to see her sleeping body.
The only place that was white on her body, covered with black fur, was her eyes, which was a funny detail, creating the impression that she was wearing a mask. Her ears, which had been huge at first, were now standing more proportionally on the top of her head as she gained weight. With her tiny nose in a triangle shape and pink paws underneath, curled up like a ball on his hand, sleeping deeply, Bi-Han couldnât help but be surprised that this little animal had trusted him despite everything.
At that moment, when the front door swung open with a deafening crash, Ninja jolted upright, her fur bristling as she leaped from his lap to seek shelter behind the seat. It couldnât have been you or his brothers who came; none of you had ever opened the door with such force before, as if intent on shattering it.
As an old silhouette, one that Bi-Han hadnât laid eyes on in a decade, crossed the threshold accompanied by a dozen assassins, Bi-Hanâs eyes widened imperceptibly. Yet, amidst the initial shock, a sense of familiarity washed over him, like finding an anchor in the stormy sea of uncertainty. Sektorâs presence, along with the assassins bearing the emblem and colors of their clan, brought a surge of relief, as if Bi-Han had finally returned to the familiar grounds of home, sense of belonging and reassurance, the tension that had gripped his shoulders for so long finally beginning to ebb away.
âGrandmaster,â Sektor greeted with a sharp inhale, leading the group in a respectful bow before Bi-Han. âItâs been too long.â
Sektorâs face bore the familiar features Bi-Han remembered, albeit with a slightly bushier and longer beard peppered with white streaks, his black hair pulled back tightly with strands of gray weaving through the dark locks. The passage of time was evident in the wrinkles near his eyes, a silent testament to the years that had slipped by in his absence. With an incredulous expression on their face, Bi-Han gestured for them to raise their heads as they greeted him. He briefly embraced Sektor, one of his right-hand men and a loyal friend, feeling a sense of familiarity and trust in his presence.
ââYou found the apartment spot on.ââ he said as he stepped back.
ââI followed the signals from the phone with which you contacted us, and it led us to the woman you mentioned,ââ Sektor explained, gesturing to one of the men behind him with his head. ââShe put up quite a struggle.ââ
As the group of seven split into two, revealing you with an assassin gripping your arm, Bi-Hanâs heart clenched at the sight of your distressed form. Your eyes widened with fear, unshed tears glistening, while blood trickled from your lip and purple fingerprints adorned your throat. The desperation in your eyes struck him deeply, igniting a fierce protective instinct within him. He didnât even grasp how it happened; one minute ago, he felt a deep-rooted sense of belonging after seeing his clan members in front of him. But now, seeing you shaken and hurt because of him, he felt a surge of emotions he didnât know he had. He couldnât understand why. Why was he feeling this way? He should feel relieved, since the book only protected you before them, not from the outside world. It was a possibility that you could get hurt. But now, it didnât sit well with him. You didnât deserve this treatment from him or his men.
ââRelease her,ââ Bi-Han growled, his voice laced with authority, anger and a little bit of protectiveness. When the assassin hesitated, Bi-Han seized their wrist and forcefully pulled you towards him. You were startled by his grip, his touch either too cold or perhaps the recent events had left you shaken. Whatever the reason, it prompted you to avoid his gaze, focusing instead on the ground beneath you. In that moment, Bi-Han anticipated the familiar pain that usually accompanied touching skin, however, to his surprise, all he encountered was the remarkably soft and sensitive skin beneath his fingers.
âBi-Han,â your voice, usually moderate and friendly, trembled with fear, resembling a fading whisper. ââLet me go, please. I just want to retreat to my room.ââ
Even after everything, you were still pleading instead of demanding or seeking vengeance for the harm inflicted upon you. Standing there, head hung low and trembling slightly in his grip, the quiver in your voice as you implored him to let you retreat to your roomâall these details spoke volumes. They revealed a vulnerability that struck Bi-Han sharply. In that moment, it dawned on him with startling clarity. Perhaps, from the very beginning, your actions had been genuine, and this moment was the ultimate test to reveal your true nature. It was a realization that left him reeling and cast doubt on his previous assumptions about you.
The timbre in your voice, your posture, or whatever it was, made Bi-Han pull his hand away from you as if it had been burned. Throughout the whole encounter, you hadnât lifted your head once, and as you quietly passed into your room without a word, Bi-Han was at a loss for what to do with the emotions that were rising up inside him.
âGrandmaster?â Sektorâs voice interrupted his thoughts, and when Bi-Han turned his gaze back to the others, he saw them watching him carefully. âDid we do something wrong?â
âWait here, Iâll be right back,â Bi-Han replied, avoiding a direct answer. âAnd be careful not to step on the cat.ââ
With those words, he followed after you. When he looked through the partially open bedroom door, he saw you sitting on the end of the bed, your back facing him. He knocked once to announce his presence and then entered without waiting for your response. Startled, you glanced over your shoulder, an old T-shirt in one hand as you dabbed at the wound on your bleeding lip. You appeared small, vulnerable, and innocent, tears streaming down your cheeks silently. Your expression bore a sadness that tugged at his heartstrings, catching him off guard.
As Bi-Han closed the door behind him and stepped inside, you tried to wipe away your tears with a sniffle. âI didnât know you hated me this much,â you said, your voice hoarse with emotion. Another tear crept down your cheek, and Bi-Han felt a pang of guilt wash over him at the sight of your despair.
âMy orders were not in that direction. There was a miscommunication. I only asked them to come here, not to hurt you.â Bi-Han explained, though even to his own ears, his words sounded unconvincing amidst the swirling emotions he couldnât quite grasp.
You must have been thinking the same thing too, so you didnât answer him. Instead, you lowered your gaze, and a heavy silence settled between you. This situation bothered Bi-Han more than he expected. He had never cared much about what you thought of him until this moment. Now, he didnât want any misunderstandings to grow, nor did he want you to think that he could give a command to harm someone defenseless. Another detail that bothered him was your demeanor; it was different from what he was accustomed to. You looked defeated, your shoulders slumped, as if trying not to take up too much space on the bed. Despite his words or his actions, there was always a flicker of light in your eyes, a desire to fight, but now it seemed extinguished. You seemed resigned, as if you had emerged from a battle knowing you couldnât win.
ââShow me your wound.ââ said Bi-Han, breaking the tense silence. You looked at him with a puzzled expression, clearly not expecting him to speak.
ââItâs not a big deal. I can handle it. It would be better if you donât keep them waiting.ââ you said kindly.
ââDonât tell me what to do,ââ Bi-Han growled, his voice taking on a contrary tone. Once again, you averted your gaze and shrank back, as if trying to disappear. Bi-Han cursed himself silently; he was too accustomed to speaking aggressively. Instead of further escalating the tension, he sat down beside you and ,as gently as possible, lifted your chin to examine your wound. Bi-Han had been expecting pain, but to his surprise, he felt the same softness and warmth of your skin as before. There was no biting pain or discomfort. It was unexpected and strange. Turning his gaze back to you, he found you watching him.
ââGive me what youâre holding and stand still,ââ he said, attempting to soften his voice. You complied silently, handing over the T-shirt. As he applied pressure to your wound to stop the bleeding, he noticed you take a sharp breath.
ââDoes it hurt?ââ
ââA little,ââ you replied softly. Bi-Han clenched his jaw, still feeling your nervous gaze on him as he tended to your wound with a care he didnât know he possessed.
ââWhy do you hate me?ââ
ââIf I hated you, I wouldnât be doing this right now, would I?ââ Bi-Han responded, his tone firm yet tinged with something softer. You took a shaky breath, your voice carrying a hint of innocence and hope that tugged at his heart.
ââSo you donât?ââ
Bi-Han didnât answer, his eyes trailed to the purple fingerprints on your throat. Sektor had applied too much force. Anger surged within him at the sight of your injuries. You didnât deserve this. Seeing you filled with fear in your own home where you should feel safe the most, blood on your lip, marks on your throat⊠Bi-Han had been trained to bear the weight of his responsibilities, but looking at you now, his conscience gnawed at him like never before. He should have foreseen Sektorâs aggression and prevented this. Yet, he couldnât bring himself to admit it out loud.
Before he could say anything, the sound of his brothers entering interrupted the moment. You exchanged a glance, then Bi-Hanâs gaze lingered on the door.
ââI think youâd better go,ââ you said again, your voice feather soft and light. Despite the fading fear on your face, you still looked vulnerable, like a fragile trinket that could be easily broken.
ââI donât trust you, but I donât hate you,â Bi-Han said suddenly, the words escaping before he could fully process them. Your eyes widened in surprise at his unexpected admission. Something about your presence in that moment had prompted him to speak. âI hate this situation Iâve fallen into,â he continued, his voice tinged with years of pent-up frustration. âThe power you have over us, this dark magic, the book, everything.â Then without waiting for your response, Bi-Han rose from his seat and walked out of the room, refusing to look back. He needed space to process his emotions, to distance himself from the turmoil that surrounded him. As he entered the living room, he found Tomas, Kuai Liang, and Sektor engrossed in conversation. Relief washed over his brothersâ faces at the sight of Sektor, and Bi-Han knew they were glad to see a familiar face after so many years. Noticing his presence, Kuai Liang turned to him.
ââWhy didnât you tell us you had contacted Sektor before?ââ He asked, his tone more curious than reproachful.
âYour attention wasnât quite suitable at the moment.â
Both of his brothers frowned, understanding the implication. Tomasâs gray eyes scanned the room briefly before settling on him again.
âWhere is she?â He inquired, his brows furrowing further.
ââIn her room.ââ Bi-Han replied.
Tomasâs expression darkened, and he rose from his seat, his eyes narrowing as he headed towards your bedroom. Bi-Han stopped him by grabbing his arm.
ââYou should know there was an incident.ââ
Tomasâs head snapped towards him then, anger clearly evident in his expression now.
ââWhat are you saying-ââ
ââTomas?ââ
When you peeked out from your bedroom, Tomasâs words hung in the air, left unfinished as he caught sight of your appearance. Bi-Han silently observed Tomasâs reaction as he swiftly reached your side. Sensing your hesitation to open the door fully, Tomas instantly noticed and, with a suppressed growl, swung the door wide open.
ââWho did this to you?ââ he demanded, his voice laced with pure anger.
Upon hearing Tomasâs question, Kuai Liang sprang from his seat and darted past him like a gust of wind. Bi-Han watched as his brother approached you with a kindness he had seldom seen in Tomas before, tenderly cupping your face in his palms and inspecting the wound on your lip with his thumb.
ââIâm fine, guys. Itâs nothing, really. It doesnât even hurt.â you said, attempting to reassure them.
âBi-Han mentioned there was an incident,ââ Kuai Liang interjected, shooting Bi-Han a knowing look before turning his gaze back to you. Bi-Han watched as the hard edge in Kuai Liangâs brown eyes softened with concern as his fingers traced the purple marks on your neck. ââTell us what really happened.ââ
Your eyes darted to his, filled with desperation, as if searching for the right words. Given that you seemed to have Kuai Liang and Tomas wrapped around your finger, they were inclined to believe whatever you said, no matter how absurd or hard to believe. A clear example of this was just a few weeks ago when Tomas confronted him on your behalf. Yet, there was a palpable sense of caution in your demeanor, as if you were treading carefully to avoid escalating the situation or triggering them further.
ââI-IâŠItâs just-ââ
ââI contacted Sektor through her phone,ââ Bi-Han interjected, unable to bear the helpless expression on your face any longer.Sektor also joined him halfway through, taking charge and completing the explanation.
ââIâm sorry for hurting you,ââ Sektor apologized, his gaze fixed on you nestled between the protective arms of his brothers. Stepping forward, he bowed as a form of apology. ââI thought you were responsible for their absence.ââ
ââNo harm done, really. You donât need to apologize,ââ you said, panic and embarrassment evident in your voice. ââI was just a bit scared. I mistook you for Quan Chi and his men at first, so I was hesitant to answer and didnât want to cooperate.ââ As you speak, Bi-Han observes your expression closely, noting the shift from fear to relief as Sektor apologizes, his sincerity reassures you.
ââYou thought he was Quan Chi?ââ Kuai Liang asked softly, gently caressing your face. You offered him a small smile and nodded in confirmation. Tomas joined him, planting a loving kiss on your cheek.
ââYou could have been seriously hurt,â Tomas said, his tone now tinged with awe and kindness rather than anger, reflecting the concern he felt towards you. His gaze softened as he looked at you.
ââI just wanted to protect you,ââ you whispered, your voice laden with emotion. Bi-Han felt something stir within him at your words, a feeling he couldnât quite name. He had imagined you must have been scared when you encountered Sektor, but mistaking him for Quan Chi and still trying to protect them⊠it was different. No one had ever shown such bravery to him or his brothers before. They had never needed it, and they were too proud to admit otherwise. Moreover, you didnât even know how to protect yourself, yet you still resisted until you realized who Sektor was. It was foolish, yet admirable. The courage you displayed, even in fear, was something not everyone possessed.
Bi-Han understood better at that moment why his brothers were so fond of you.
As they returned to the living room, Bi-Han recounted the events, with his brothers occasionally adding their own insights. He wasnât sure how many hours had passed; after all, they had been absent for ten years, and it must have taken them hours to catch up on the clanâs affairs. Throughout the conversation, Bi-Han remained seated in his usual spot, while you held Ninja on your lap, nestled under the seat after you reached out to her. You were installed next to Kuai Liang, while Tomas and Sektor occupied seats opposite you.
He was relieved to learn that the clan had remained steadfast since the day they were cursed. Sektor and Cyrax had worked diligently to maintain order and uphold traditions. In fact, Sektor mentioned that their numbers had increased slightly, and their training had become more comprehensive.
Once there was nothing left to discuss, Bi-Han spoke up once again. ââI want you to contact Lord Liu Kang. If anyone can lift this curse, itâs him,ââ he instructed.
ââWonât you come back with us?ââ Sektorâs surprise was palpable. ââEverythingâs ready, Grandmaster. Just give us the command.ââ
Bi-Han yearned to return to his homeland, to the land where he belonged, where he was born and raised⊠But he had to consider the bigger picture. It was impossible for them to stay away from you for long due to the curse. If you came with them, you would be vulnerable to their enemies, who might exploit you to harm the clan. Bi-Han wanted to keep this situation as secret as possible, at least until a solution was found.
ââItâs best if the curse remains discreet between us. The sooner you reach Liu Kang, the better.ââ
âBut brotherâââ
ââThey can use her as a means to reach us,ââ Bi-Han interjected, cutting off Kuai Liang. When his gaze shifted to you, a guilty expression flashed across your face, as if you felt responsible, and you quickly averted your eyes. Bi-Han cursed himself silently for yet another misunderstanding. ââItâs for the best, for all of us. If Liu Kang canât find a solution, return here in two months and retrieve the book. I want us to remain within the clan thereafter.ââ
ââAs you wish, Grandmaster,ââ Sektor replied obediently.
***
A few days had passed since Sektorâs visit. The scar on your lip had almost disappeared, and the fingerprints on your throat had turned into a pale yellow stain. The memory of your expression upon seeing the amount of food that Tomas and Kuai Liang had boughtâenough to feed a small African tribeâremained vivid in Bi-Hanâs mind.
ââWhat is all this?ââ you asked, your cheeks slightly flushed with excitement. Tomas scratched the back of his head bashfully, while Kuai Liang pulled you close with a gentle arm around your waist, planting a kiss on the bruises on your neck.
ââWe did some grocery shopping.ââ Tomas replied.
ââBut how?ââ You inquired politely, fully aware of they didnât have an money, yet the bemused expression on your face was endearing, a blend of amusement and sweetness. Your cheeks held a faint flush, while your eyes sparkled with excitement, reminiscent of a delighted child receiving a cherished gift. Witnessing your joy, Bi-Han was taken aback by how effortlessly you found happiness in such simple gestures.
ââIt would be more accurate to say we obtained it without being seen.ââ Kuai Liang chimed in, taking over the explanation from Tomas. Your raised eyebrow and playful glance prompted a chuckle from him.
ââSo you stole it, did you?ââ
ââIs it stealing if no one saw?ââ Tomas quipped, eliciting a laugh from you that echoed through the small kitchen.
ââTomas! Thatâs exactly what stealing means!ââ you exclaimed, still smiling as you surveyed the bounty of food. ââYou even got food for Ninja, guys, I canât believe you! I hope I can fit this much food in the fridge.ââ Turning in Kuai Liangâs arms, you planted a happy kiss on his lips, filling his face with pride and joy. âNormally, theft is never something I would approve of, but I really needed it, thank you.ââ you said, moving to hug Tomas tightly and also kiss him like you did with Kuai Liang.
ââWe can imagine how difficult it is for you to feed us all at once. We wanted to ease your burden.ââ Tomas explained. In response to his words, the innocence in your smile deepened, and Bi-Han watched as the warmth in your eyes softened further. He had never witnessed anyone gaze at his brothers with such sincerity and purity. Your gestures, your smilesâeverything you offered them seemed so natural and genuine. It was as though you held deep affection for his brothers. For a brief moment, Bi-Han found himself contemplating how it would feel if those same tender glances were directed at him. It seemed absurd to entertain such thoughts, as he typically dismissed such sentiments. Yet, in that moment, he couldnât help but wonder. Had he ever missed something he had never experienced? Was it jealousy, or perhaps longing? The unfamiliar emotions stirred within him, leaving him perplexed yet intrigued.
Shaking off his reverie, Bi-Han sat alone, you having gone out for a walk with Kuai Liang and Tomas an hour ago, leaving him alone with the cat. Glancing at the feline curled up in his lap, he found himself stroking her soft belly absentmindedly. As he sat at his seat, his gaze wandered to the window, where colorful city lights illuminated the evening sky. Below, people bustled about, returning home after a dayâs work, while the distant sounds of car engines added to the cityâs cacophony.
Suddenly, the cat perked up, alerted by a sound outside. Bi-Hanâs attention shifted to the door, where he heard the anxious voices of his brothers approaching. As they entered, Tomas was holding you in his arms, with Kuai Liang in tow. Bi-Hanâs brow furrowed as he took in the state you were in.
âWhatâs going on?â
âSheâs not well,â Tomasïżœïżœïżœs voice was tense, dominated by a helpless and worried expression rarely seen on his face when he felt powerless. Kuai Liang remained silent, his eyes stormy with concern, his jaw clenched so tightly that he was sure his teeth were aching. âWhile walking in the park, she suddenly doubled over and started holding her stomach, whimpering in pain.â he explained.
âSide effects of the book,â Kuai Liang interjected, his tone tinged with anger. âSheâs been experiencing symptoms for a while but hasnât said anything.â
Bi-Han found himself grappling with disbelief as he processed the situation. Despite a part of him anticipating this moment, he couldnât comprehend how he missed the telltale signs. Since they showed up at your house, he had always kept his eyes on you. He waited for you to drop your mask, quietly following your every step, scrutinizing your expression with sharp eyes. Perhaps, in hindsight, he was so overwhelmed with details that he failed to see the truth before him. Normally, within a week or so, whoever wielded the book would inevitably use them for their own pleasure.
Initially, the feeling would emerge subtly, like a thin fog in the corner of their minds, not applying pressure but making its presence felt. But as the days passed, this feeling would grow hostile and aggressive, leaving no choice but to use them, as relief could only come that way. Bi-Han had heard this definition before from several different masters, none of whom could endure the escalating wave of pain to the end, especially when the solution was within reach and there were no obstacles.
The fact that you had been enduring this pain silently for a while, and moreover, that you hid it from them without flinching, was something Bi-Han couldnât reconcile with his logic. Why were you trying to endure this pain?
âIâm all right,â you weakly protested, barely audible amidst the turmoil. Bi-Hanâs gaze softened as he observed you, held in Tomasâs embrace. Sweat glistened on your forehead, your face contorted in agony. Despite not touching you, he could sense the fever radiating from your body.
âThis canât continue,â Tomas insisted, concern etched on his features. âWe can help you.â
âNo,â you managed to gasp in pain, struggling to open your eyes. Bi-Han could see clearly the extent of your suffering, tears lined the edges of your eyes. âI donât want you to do this because of the curse.â
âWe are going to do this for you,â Kuai Liang countered, his voice laced with anger directed at the situation rather than you. However, in that moment, it came out as a snarl.
âDoesnât matter. After all, Iâm in this state because of the curse, and I donât want you to be put under the same obligation again.â
âDo you want us to stand by while you suffer?â Kuai Liang pressed, his concern palpable.
Unable to speak, your eyes squeezed shut as a whimper escaped your lips, writhing painfully in Tomasâs lap as you began to take deep, labored breaths, resting your head on his chest.
âSheâs burning,â Tomas remarked, his voice increasingly concerned. Then, as if a realization dawned on both of them simultaneously, Bi-Han crossed his arms over his chest and gave them a piercing, almost deadly glare.
âNo.â
***
He couldnât comprehend how he found himself lying in bed with you. Moments ago, he was at odds with Kuai Liang and Tomas, and now he lay on your double-sized bed, staring at the ceiling. His logical mind urged him to leave, yet his body remained rooted for reasons he couldnât fathom.
Turning to where you lay, he observed you from his position. There wasnât much space between you on the bed. Your body curled into a fetal position, drenched in sweat, causing the sheets beneath you to dampen. You looked so pitiful and helpless, as the only thing you could do at the moment was keep breathing.
âWhy are you resisting?â Bi-Hanâs voice lacked its usual aggression or coldness, replaced instead by confusion. He couldnât grasp why you still kept enduring this suffering.
âI want to keep all of you safe,â your fragile voice answered. Bi-Hanâs brows furrowed deeper at your response.
âIs it worth enduring this pain?â
âYes.â Your answer was swift and simple, stirring an ache in Bi-Hanâs heart. ââI told Kuai Liang that I would offer you a safe space, and I will do so as well. You deserve more than that, but this is all I can do. I donât want you to do anything that the book obliges.ââ
What you thought was insignificant was actually a tremendous sacrifice for their comfort. He was speechless for the first time in his life. He didnât know what to say, what the right and necessary words were. He had never met someone like you who sacrificed themselves in this way before. As he needed a few seconds to digest what he was hearing, he simply looked at you.
At that moment, Bi-Han heard the answer to the âWhyâ question that had been spinning in his mind for weeks. Because you cared not only about your brothers but also about him with all his thorns, sharp words, and rude manners. Despite everything, you werenât keeping him apart from Kuai Liang and Tomas, and you were enduring this pain inside for him as much as you were enduring it for them.
As you writhed in pain, still maintaining a careful distance, Bi-Han realized that what he had been waiting for wasnât you to drop your mask, but for him to acknowledge your genuine care. You didnât play games; your sole purpose was to only help. While gaining the trust of Kuai Liang and Tomas, you rejected their assistance, a reaction unfamiliar to him and his brothers. Despite the opportunity for relief, you refused their aid.
With another whimper, you completely crumpled down where you were, and when tears started to flow from your eyes once again, Bi-Han pulled you to himself as he grasped you, without thinking about anything else, along with the emotions that sprouted in his heart. Even though he knew that you would be surprised under normal circumstances, your indifference and continuing to cry quietly while being embraced by him by doing the exact opposite, tugged at his heart strings.
âIâm sorry,â your voice muffled against his neck, yet Bi-Han heard every word. âI know you donât like me⊠Iâm sorry you had to endure this.ââ
âBe silent, woman. You talk too much.â His tone was surprisingly gentle as Bi-Han held your sweat-drenched body against him tightly. A small moan escaped your lips, a sign of relief amidst the pain. Since Bi-Han has always kept his distance from you, youâve had almost zero contact with him, so in addition to his body being cold, his touch was also more effective compared to his brothers. Thatâs why, actually, part of the pain you suffered was because of him, that you couldnât touch him the way you could have touched Kuai Liang or Tomas.
Your body slowly relaxed in his arms, Bi-Hanâs hand finding its way under your shirt, offering what little coolness he could. It felt natural to hold you this way, as if it was where you belonged all along.
âBi-HanâŠâ your voice was soft and vulnerable, triggering his protective instincts. As he rested his chin on top of your head, completely caging you with his arms, your breathing steadied a bit, and the tremors subsided. âYou donât have to do this.â you whispered, your voice thick with emotion. Your lips brushed against his throat as you spoke, a detail Bi-Han found himself liking.
âI remember telling you to be silent.â
âI donât want to cause you any more inconvenience. Iâm feeling better, please, you can let me go.â you said, the obvious lie and stubbornness in your voice softening Bi-Hanâs heart while simultaneously angering him. He grabbed you by the neck so that he could see your face, and when he lifted your chin up with his thumb, he faced your innocent gaze. All the while his touch was gentle and incredibly cautious, much like when he handled Ninja. You resembled her at the moment, fragile and delicate.
âUnder normal circumstances, you canât force me to do something I donât want to,â he asserted, his hand tracing from your chin to your temples. As his fingers moved over the lines, a moment of relief washed over you, your eyes closing briefly in response. Bi-Han found solace in providing you with comfort, a departure from his typically cold demeanor that often left others chilled rather than soothed. âThis is one of those rare instances.â When Bi-Han whispered the last part towards your lips, your eyes opened, and you suddenly looked at him with so much emotion that Bi-Han felt his breath getting smaller and clogged in his throat. He could see his own reflection in your eyes.
ââI have been cruel to you, even though you did not deserve it.ââ His confession enveloped the room like a heavy blanket, yet Bi-Han didnât feel suffocated beneath it. On the contrary, he felt a sense of relief, as if he had shed a bit more of the burden he carried. When his gaze shifted from your lips back to your eyes, he couldnât help but feel a pang in his heart at the profound understanding reflected in them.
ââYou had your reasons, itâs okay.ââ You said it with your usual forgiveness. ââI have not given up hope for you.â Despite everything, when you managed to put a small smile on your pain-weary face, Bi-Han felt that his heart was being suppressed inside his rib cage, as if it was being squeezed from both sides. How pure your heart was, so full of kindness that Bi-Han started to feel like absolute shit when he thought about the times he hurt you so many times.
ââYou make me feel things Iâve never felt before.ââ He said after a moment, his brow furrowing slightly as he spoke.
ââIs that⊠a bad thing?ââ You said in a timid voice.
âNo,â Bi-Han said without hesitation. âItâs something I never thought possible until now.â He had buried his feelings so deeply that now, as they began to surface, distinguishing and naming each one became a daunting task. He felt overwhelmed by them, but refusing to ignore them any longer felt like the only honorable choice, especially after witnessing your endurance of pain on their behalf.
While he seethed with frustration towards his brothers, he never anticipated finding himself in the same predicament as them. Typically, heâd be harsh on himself for failing to maintain his vigilance. Even before assuming leadership of the clan, he embodied the role of the older brother, a figure of experience and protection, standing resolute where they faltered.
Yet, as he observed you, he teetered on the edge of conflicting emotions. You touched a part of him that had remained untouched, your essence reaching deep into his soul. Physically fragile you may have been, but your heartâyour heart was a beacon of forgiveness and strength. Your presence illuminated every space you entered with a comforting warmth, a stark contrast to his reserved attitude.
Despite this, a part of him resisted. A lifetime of emotional barricades made him wary of letting anyone in, fearful of disrupting the balance heâd maintained. If Liu Kang couldnât find a solution to the curse, he was doomed to lose you. Did he really want to take this risk despite knowing the inevitable outcome? As he looked at you, the answer became clear in his mind. Though brief, even if it were to end eventually, Bi-Han yearned to taste the light before returning to eternal darkness. You were a rarity, a once-in-a-lifetime encounter he couldnât bear to reduce to a mere âwishâ. No, he wished to imprint every moment, every sensation of you, onto his memory. The desire boiled within him, igniting his veins like wildfire, as his gaze once again descended from your eyes to your lips.
ââThroughout my life, Iâve learned to be self-sufficient, prioritizing my clan above all else and neglecting my own desires. Itâs become second nature, so much so that I didnât realize what I truly needed until this moment.â His thumb grazed your lower lip, a gesture filled with longing. âItâs you,â Bi-Han declared, his voice echoing with a possessive growl that emboldened him. âI want to taste you, to feel you. I need you.â
Your expression softened even further, a tired yet content smile gracing your lips. âIâm here.â Those words were all Bi-Han needed to act. As his lips met yours, he felt the warmth radiating from your body, a heat he was determined to temper. Your kiss was slow and tentative, your movements guided by exhaustion and lingering pain. Bi-Han welcomed your presence, relishing the sensation of your lips against his. He felt every subtle shift and curve; your lips were so much softer than he ever could imagine, delicate like butterfly wings. Your taste was intoxicatingly sweet and warm, tinged with the fever that had consumed you, yet achingly innocent.
It felt like stepping onto solid ground after sailing through a raging storm, finally finding a peace and comfort he had never experienced before. It felt like returning home, to where he truly belongedâwelcoming, gentle, and forgiving.
âBi-Han,â you whispered, your voice barely audible, as if afraid to disturb the delicate moment. Pulling back slightly, you sought to catch your breath, your lips brushing against the tip of his chin in a tender kiss. Nestling your head against the crook of his neck, your hand resting gently on the side of his neck. âThank you for trusting me enough to give me a chance.â you murmured, your words laden with sincerity.
Then, as if on cue, your body grew heavy, slipping into the embrace of sleep. Careful not to disturb you, he adjusted your position to ensure your comfort, his hand instinctively finding its way to gently stroke your hair. It felt natural, as if he had been doing it all his life, bringing him a sense of peace he had long yearned for.
âTrust, huh,â Bi-Han whispered to himself, his voice barely audible in the quiet room. It struck him then that this was exactly what he was offering you in this moment. As you lay peacefully, surrendering yourself to him, Bi-Han couldnât imagine being anywhere else. Everything felt so right, so true, in this moment with you. If breaking his oath was the price to taste this peace, he was willing to pay it. His decision was made the instant he lay down beside you, even if he couldnât bring himself to admit it.
As your skin gradually returned to its normal temperature, Bi-Han found comfort in the gentle contact. Your touch, a testament to your presence, was undeniably soothing. It carried a silent promise of healing, a balm for the wounds inflicted by the curse. Like the calm waves of the morning sea caressing the shore, your essence enveloped his soul, offering comfort and reassurance. The rhythm of your breathing, the soft glow of the lamp, the weight of your body against hisâall of it contributed to a sense of serenity that permeated the room. For a moment, Bi-Han allowed himself to relax fully, succumbing to the tranquility that surrounded him. With a sense of surrender, he closed his eyes, trusting that his brothers would keep watch and ensure your safety for the hours ahead.
He had harbored a lifelong aversion to physical contact, but now, as he yearned to etch into his memory the sensations evoked by your touch, along with every intricate detail, he realized that touching could bring comfort and pleasure instead of pain.
And it was all because of youâŠ
***
Authorâs Note : As you can see, Bi-Han was a virgin before being sealed inside the book, due to his strong aversion to physical touch⊠But! Heâs in good hands now. Welcome to the party, Bi-Han, albeit a bit late. Better late than never, right? By the way, Bi-Han sees the reader as non-threatening, which is why her touch doesnât hurt him at all, but he isnât aware of this. Subconsciously, heâs reacting this way, and itâs only with his brothers where he truly feels safe. Reader is now a part of that inner circle.
See you in the next chapter! đ„°
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That moment when the unrelated scenes you've been writing for two weeks both somehow connect (i have no idea how this happened)
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In the Middle Of the Nightđ
-> Ao3 link is here.
-> Part Two is here.
-> Part Four is here.
Pairings : Bi-Han/ Sub-Zero x You, Kuai Liang/ Scorpion x You, Tomas Vrbada/ Smoke x You
Authorâs Note : This chapter spans over 12,000 words as Kuai Liang unravels his story, and Iâm quite pleased with the result. I hope youâll enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it. However, I want to provide a heads-up about a couple of sensitive topics covered in this chapter: food deprivation and references to past sexual abuse.
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These burning flames, these crashing waves,
Wash over me like a hurricane.
I'll captivate, you're hypnotized,
Feel powerful, but it's me again.
CHAPTER THREE : KUAI LIANG
Kuai Liang had protected his heart well throughout his life.
He had learned to control his powers at a very young age. Compared to his older brother, he was more capable of destroying powers and creating serious dangers instantly if left unchecked. Hence, he had to master the art of composure and patience, ensuring his emotions remained tempered. As a pyromancer, fire was less forgiving than ice; even a small mishap could have serious consequences and quickly destroy whatever stood in its way.
As the Grandmasterâs son, Kuai Liang shouldered heavier responsibilities within their clan due to the hierarchical structure. This framework not only limited his interactions but also instilled a fear of accidentally harming others with his powers. Despite his efforts to erect emotional barriers for the safety of those around him, he struggled internally and envied his brothers. Unlike him, Bi-Han always has an intimidating aura around him, his icy powers reflecting his demeanor as he effortlessly distanced himself from others. In contrast, Tomas initially grappling with the loss of his own family, he eventually warmed up to others, radiating a friendly and approachable demeanor.
As they were sealed inside the book, they found themselves drifting apart. Bi-Han grew colder, even to him, while Tomasâs once bright eyes dimmed, reminiscent of the day they discovered him at the clan borders, drenched in the blood of his family, wearing a vacant expression. Kuai Liang became the conduit between his brothers, as the curse slowly consumed them from within.
Especially when she summoned them, thatâs when everything spiraled downward. Kuai Liang didnât realize the depth of their descent until they were already submerged in it, despite having endured so much already.
ââI told them that you could satisfy them, Kuai Liang. There are only five of them, youâre not going to mislead me, are you? Iâm sure youâll get over it.ââ
His masterâs hands rested on his shoulders, her lustily muffled breath tickling his ear, while Kuai Liang endeavored to remain still, his expression carefully blank. Standing naked before a vast, round bed swathed in luxurious satin sheets, he felt a prickling sensation crawl across his skin under the scrutinizing gaze of the small group gathered before him. The room glowed with the warm flicker of candles of various sizes, their dancing flames casting intricate patterns on the walls. A crackling fire burned in the nearby fireplace, its radiant heat almost overwhelming him, despite fire being his element. The intense warmth caused his skin to feel hot and sweaty, everything feeling too much at the moment.
The group, nestled on dark red satin sheets, observed him with a mix of curiosity and hunger, their whispers filling the air with anticipation. The heavy scent of aphrodisiac permeated the room, emanating from the candlesâa deliberate attempt to set the mood, given Kuai Liangâs inability to do so himself.
Leilani, his master, coiled the chain of his collar around her fingers, the cold metal sending a shiver down his spine as she obediently lowered his head. She captured his lower lip between her teeth, biting down with a force that bordered on painful, eliciting a sharp intake of breath from him. Despite the discomfort, he remained stoic, his gaze unwavering as blood trickled down to his chin in a thin stream. A smirk of pleasure adorned Leilaniâs lips as she licked the blood smeared on his lip with the tip of her tongue, savoring the metallic tang, before delicately tracing the blood trail on his chin with soft, deliberate licks.
âDonât embarrass me, slave,â she remarked coldly.
As Kuai Liang managed to open his eyes with a ragged breath, everything appeared blurry at first. He felt a faint coolness on his forehead, his body weighed down by an unbearable ache in every muscle. With teeth clenched in pain, he struggled to regain focus.
âOh, Iâm sorry, did I wake you up?â a soft, unfamiliar voice reached his ears, distinct from the nightmare he had just endured. Despite the heaviness of his eyelids, Kuai Liang managed to blink them open. As his vision cleared, your figure came into view. Whatever expression crossed his face, you spoke in a gentle, understanding tone.
âItâs okay, Kuai Liang. Youâre safe, youâre in my house, remember?â
Your words triggered images to flood into his mind. He was out of the book, but when? How long had he been lying like this? His body throbbed with pain, suggesting he had been immobile for some time.
âYour throat must be quite dry. Wait, Iâll get you some water.â
Kuai Liang propped himself up with his elbows, wincing at the protest of his aching muscles. He watched as you poured water into a glass from a nearby jug and carefully sat down beside him.
âHere, let me put a pillow behind you to make you more comfortable.â
As you placed a pillow to support his back, Kuai Liang drew a deep breath, finally able to sit upright. Even this simple movement caused his muscles to rebel. Silently, you handed him the glass of water to drink. Kuai Liang grasped the cup with his numb fingers, feeling a surge of life as the cool water flowed down his parched throat. He finished the water in one go, thirst quenched like a desert traveler finding an oasis. When you refilled the glass and offered it again, he drank more slowly this time, savoring the refreshing liquid. Once his mouth felt moist enough to speak, Kuai Liang asked in a hoarse, wheezy voice, unused to speaking after days of silence.
âHow many days have I been in bed?â
âItâs been a week,â you said in a kind voice, refilling his glass with water for the third time. Kuai Liangâs eyes widened slightly in surprise.
âA week?â
âYes, your brothers tried not to show it, but they were worried about you,â you said with a sweet smile. âBut they had complete faith in you that you would get through this.â
âWhere are they?â Kuai Liang asked as he took another sip from the glass. The water felt like medicine, satiating the last embers of fever that had spread from his lungs to his entire body, gradually calming him down.
âBi-Han went out until about an hour ago. Tomas is sleeping in the living room.â
Kuai Liang couldnât be sure he had heard the last part correctly. Tomas? Sleeping? How was this possible? Since the day they were sealed in the book, Tomas had always struggled to fall asleep. He fought insomnia, afraid of returning to the eternal darkness, and tried to cope by taking short naps whenever he could. Hearing that he was sleeping now didnât sound convincing to Kuai Liang at all.
âOf his own accord?â Kuai Liang said, his voice filled with doubt and disbelief. Despite his frown, his expression remained composed. There was an understanding in your gaze, indicating you comprehended his reaction.
âYes, itâs quite early for him to wake up, but if you want to see him, I can wake him up.â
âNo, thereâs no need.â Kuai Liang quickly opposed the idea. If Tomas managed to sleep, he wouldnât want to disturb him. He knew how rare this situation was and wanted his brother to take advantage of it.
âAre you hungry? I made you some porridge so you could eat comfortably. I can heat it up and bring it if you want.â
Though Kuai Liang was once again surprised, he tried not to let it show too much on his face. His eyebrows furrowed slightly, a sign of his guard being raised. Had you prepared a meal for him, Kuai Liang wondered? The notion seemed as peculiar as Tomas managing to sleep. The only logical explanation he could muster was that you intended to ask for something in return for the food. After all, he had been bedridden for a week, too weak to follow orders. Ironically, it only took a simple command from you to spur him into action. You didnât need to prepare anything in exchange. Yet, it was easier this wayâto diminish their pride, as many masters before you had relished doing.
Despite having woken up, Kuai Liangâs body still felt weak. It was a challenge for him to muster the strength to prepare something for himself in order to regain his energy. Upon waking, his stomach stirred, reminding him of how hungry he truly was. With a metabolism faster than that of a normal person, he often found himself needing to consume more food. His old masters had exploited this trait, subjecting him to hunger tests and various trials to gauge his endurance. Through those experiences, Kuai Liang had learned the limits of hunger all too well.
âIf you donât like porridge, I can make soup or something different,â you said, your voice slightly faltering with the lengthening silence. Realizing Kuai Liang hadnât answered, he pulled himself out of his thoughts and spoke hesitantly, choosing his words carefully.
âThe porridge is fine. I prefer to eat it cold⊠I believe Iâm warmed enough.ââ
Your face unexpectedly brightened at his answer, and you stood up, a smile returning to your face.
âGreat! Wait here, Iâll be right back. Iâm sure youâll feel better after eating.â
As you quickly left the room, Kuai Liang remained where he was leaning, trying to make sense of what had just happened. His tired gaze wandered around the room, realizing he wasnât in the living room. It was your bedroom, filled with your personal belongings. Despite the open window airing the room, there was a faint, vaguely sweet smell that defined you, a scent he could only describe as feminine.
His gaze shifted to the thin blanket half pulled over him. As his fingers grazed the fabric, he tried to remember how he got here, but his memories were blurred. He could barely recall the conversations with Tomas and Bi-Han. All he could do was try to hold himself together at the moment. He felt as if he were burning with such intensity that he thought he would be reduced to ashes. While the fire consumed his body, he hadnât experienced such a severe one before. He had never lost consciousness, although it always took him a long time to fully come to his senses after emerging from the book, unlike his brothers.
As you re-entered, Kuai Liang was snapped out of his thoughts, watching as you handed him the tray with a kind smile.
âHere you go, I hope you like it.â
Kuai Liang steadied the tray on his lap, gradually quelling the tremors in his hands. His gaze fell upon the bowl of porridge, its steam rising in wisps, teasing his nostrils with its warmth. His stomach clenched with a pang of hunger, urging him to devour the meal. With each passing moment, the gnawing sensation intensified, Kuai Liang dipped his spoon into the porridge to alleviate the relentless ache.
The porridge was cold, as you hadnât heated it up as he requested and it was exactly what his body needed. With the first spoonful, he was taken aback by its unexpected deliciousness. While porridge was typically bland and unremarkable to him, the one you made was surprisingly rich in flavor. The chicken broth mingled seamlessly with the rice, enhanced by the spices you added, making it not only palatable but enjoyable to eat.
âKuai Liang,â you chuckled softly, your voice triggering a strange sensation in his stomach, distinct from hunger. Turning his gaze to you, he was met with your gentle expression. âYou should eat slowly. Itâs been a while since youâve eaten, and youâll make your stomach uncomfortable at this rate. Thereâs a pot full of porridge still, so donât worry.â
As the food settled in his stomach, Kuai Liang finished his mouthful and took a sip of water before speaking. Thankfully, his bronze skin hid the faint warmth creeping into his cheeks at your words. He couldnât remember the last time he had felt this hungry; it was as if his strength would ebb away entirely if he didnât eat, as if the gnawing feeling in his stomach would consume his entire body.
Due to his fast metabolism, he had to eat constantly to survive and keep his body fit and agile. His previous masters had exploited this weakness, subjecting him to tests of endurance. He was a fighter, refusing to surrender without a struggle. Over time, Kuai Liang had learned to endure hunger for extended periods, gritting his teeth against the relentless pain in his stomach.
One of the perpetual side effects of the book was to maintain their physical appearance, like a perfect gift always on display. Despite the hardships they faced, their bodies remained unchanged from when they were first sealed in the book. Their skin remained firm and devoid of signs of aging, while their muscles remained taut and defined.
Though he felt powerless due to the lack of proper nourishment, Kuai Liang avoided showing weakness to the outside world, especially to the master of the book at the time. His brothers had been his biggest support. While Bi-Han and Tomas often shared their food with him, Kuai Liang initially tried to refuse their help. Ultimately, they all needed sustenance to endure and find a solution to their nightmare. Even though Bi-Han could go days without eating, Kuai Liang didnât want him to endure the same deprivation.
âThank you,â Kuai Liang said after a while. âThatâs enough for me.â
Your furrowed eyebrows revealed your disbelief. âYouâve been sleeping for days, Kuai Liang. From what Iâve learned from your brothers, considering your metabolic rate, you need to eat at least four servings from that bowl, not to mention your body size. If you donât like it, I can make something else, but you definitely need to eat. I donât want you walking around hungry.â you insisted, your voice laced with concern.
Kuai Liang probably looked at you with surprise, though he managed to conceal it on his face. What? Your innocent tone and facial expression seemed to support each other seamlessly. Obviously, you didnât know anything about his past, and he didnât expect his brothers to say anything about it. You hadnât ordered them to gather any information either.
âNo, the porridge is fine, thank you,â Kuai Liang tried to smoothly continue. âCan I have more?â
âOf course!â Your smile widened, your whole face lighting up with joy as if the sun had risen upon you. Kuai Liang felt that strange ache again as he looked at you. âI thought youâd never ask!â
***
After Kuai Liang finished all the food in the pot and took a cold shower, he felt refreshed. His body was free from the daysâ accumulated sweat, his stubble shaved, and his hair pulled back neatly. It was a strange feeling to have a full stomach, having forgotten what it felt like. Yet, there was a sense of peace within him. A weight had lifted, quieting the constant alertness that had consumed him for so long.
Arriving at the entrance of the living room, Kuai Liang encountered Bi-Han in the narrow hallway. His brother scrutinized him in silence from head to toe, assessing if he was well enough to stand.
âYou look well,â said Bi-Han, his voice barely audible. âDo you feel as well as you look?â
âYes, brother,â Kuai Liang replied, forcing a small smile to accompany his words. âHow are you and Tomas? Was there anything I missed in a week?â
Bi-Han fell silent for a moment, nodding towards the study room adjacent to the bedroom. Kuai Liang followed his brother quietly into the room, and Bi-Han closed the door behind them, lowering his voice despite its depth.
âTomas has begun to lose himself to the woman,â Bi-Hanâs words filled the room with an icy chill. Kuai Liang observed his brotherâs stern expression, which conveyed his displeasure with the situation. Despite their painful past and Tomasâs training as an assassin by the Lin Kuei, his inherent naivety had persisted, a trait Kuai Liang had always found unique. His brother lacked a judgmental nature, easily believing whatever he was told.
Since their time in the book, Tomas had changed like the rest of them. Whoever became the master of the book, Tomas obeyed them almost flawlessly, swiftly fulfilling orders and expectations. Kuai Liang soon understood why â it was the same as when he was trying to adhere to the Lin Kuei. He had no choice but to comply in order to survive in this new world where he didnât know the rules. Yet, there was one person who made Tomas hesitate, offering a glimmer of hope in their dark world and suggesting that the cycle could be broken.
âHow so?â Kuai Liang asked, his voice tinged with disbelief.
âYou heard me.â Bi-Han replied.
âLike what happened with Leilani?â
âIt may be even worse than that,â Bi-Han snarled, his face contorting with rage at the mention of their old masterâs name. ââThe speed at which sheâs manipulated him is unprecedented.â
âHow is that possible? Tomas was cautious after what happened.â
âYou havenât spent time with the woman. She offers him everything he desires, and he willingly accepts. Theyâre always together, laughing, touching, kissing. Itâs all by his own consent.â
âWhat? Are you sure?â
âYou know how long it took him to recover after Leilani. If this woman can make this much progress in a week, imagine what will happen when we return to the book in three months.â
âWait a minute,â Kuai Liang tried to digest the information, pinching the bridge of his nose and taking a deep breath. âShe told me that⊠Is it true that Tomas is sleeping of his own accord?ââ
âYes,â Bi-Han confirmed, his anger palpable.
ââDamn it,â Kuai Liang muttered, running a hand over his head in frustration. All three of them harbored an aversion to darkness, but for Tomas, it went beyond mere dislikeâit was pure loathing. He avoided closing his eyes for extended periods and fought against sleep as much as possible. The fact that he could now sleep next to you, in his most vulnerable state, only heightened Bi-Hanâs concerns. Tomas had never revealed this side to anyone, not even to the master of all the books that had come and gone, except Leilani. Yet, even Leilani took a considerable amount of time to witness this aspect, setting a new record compared to their previous experiences.
âIâve been constantly warning him to get it into his thick head and not trust the woman, but he doesnât listen to me. Go talk to him, try to stop him from getting any more attached. Maybe your moderate approach will ring a bell for him.â
âIf the situation is as serious as you say, brother, I donât think Tomas will listen to me either.â
âWell, what shall we do then? Shall we allow his feelings to be manipulated, humiliated, and used again? Weâve been through this once, Kuai Liang, and I swore it wouldnât happen again,â Bi-Hanâs voice was as cold and harsh as winter itself, his demanding gaze piercing through him like a blade.
âOkay, Iâll talk to him.â
Taking another deep breath, Kuai Liang exited the room, silently following the voices until he reached the entrance of the living room. Both of you were engrossed in examining a pile of books on the kitchen island, your conversation too hushed for him to make out. However, judging by the expressions on your faces, you appeared to be in good spirits. Shifting his focus entirely to his brother, Kuai Liang comprehended Bi-Hanâs concerns more clearly.
There was a calmness in Tomasâs expression that Kuai Liang hadnât seen in a long time, almost peaceful. It was a departure from his usual artificial and distant smile, a sign of his increasing pessimism over the years. Despite his youth, his face carried a weight beyond his years, rivaling even Bi-Hanâs gloominess.
The way heâs watching you now, with one hand casually supporting his chin and a subtle smile playing on his lips, rather than being absorbed in the book before him, is very different from what heâs used to. He would never have imagined it if he hadnât seen it for himself. Seeing his brother carefree and relaxed, just like old times, filled Kuai Liang with concern instead of contentment. Bi-Han was right; Tomas had gotten carried away with you, and from what he observed, the situation was much more serious than he thought.
âDo you understand what I mean now?â Bi-Hanâs voice came from right behind him, close enough for Kuai Liang to feel his cool breath on his neck. Kuai Liang didnât say anything. After silently nodding in agreement, he stepped in, and you both snapped out of the peaceful bubble you had created upon noticing his arrival.
âKuai Liang, good morning! I heard you were up, but you were in the shower when I got up. How do you feel? Are you better?â Tomas greeted him in a somewhat cheerful voice. Now that he could see him up close, Kuai Liang could discern the details better. While his pale face should have been marked with dark circles due to his usual insomnia, Tomasâs face had a lightness that indicated he had a good sleep. There were no stress lines, and his dull gray eyes were bright and sharp, as if life had returned to them.
Kuai Liang still found it hard to believe the change that had occurred in such a short time. He answered Tomasâs question in a flat voice,âYes, I feel much better now.â To divert Tomasâs attention and avoid probing further, he turned his gaze to the books you were examining. âWhat are you doing?â
âWeâre looking for a solution to break the curse,â you intervened in a soft voice. âI found these books in the library; I thought maybe there might be something useful in them.â Your gaze shifted from him to the notebook in front of you, scribbling something that he couldnât read from this distance. âWeâve tried several solutions so far, but none of them have worked.â
âWhat were the things you tried?â
âWell, I tried to buy a small bottle of holy water from a church nearby and bless the book. When that didnât work, I read somewhere that a little blood and certain prayers could be effective in breaking the curse, so I tried that this time.â
You raised your left hand and showed him your palm, revealing a long, thin cut running from the little finger to the thumb. Judging by the look of the cut, it seemed to have been at least a few days old. Kuai Liang was surprised that you had hurt yourself for them, but his astonishment faded when he reminded himself that this was likely part of the deception.
âYou said burning didnât work, but I tried it again to explore every possibility. Besides that, thereâs actually another method that comes to my mind; there are people who specialize in breaking curses. Normally, I didnât really believe in such things, but after all this, Iâm considering every possibility now. I donât know how we can explain this whole thing to them, but maybe I can ask them for help. If I canât break the curse, at least they can guide us.â
âI donât know how much more we have to tell you to make you understand.â Bi-Hanâs voice interrupted as he entered the living room. Kuai Liang observed you shift in your seat anxiously, while Tomas subtly straightened his posture in a protective manner. âYou canât break Quan Chiâs curse with such ridiculous things. If it were that easy, we wouldnât be here right now.â
âI know, butââ
âStop this game,â Bi-Han interjected, his tone growing impatient. Although you tried not to show your uneasiness, you shifted again, and your hands clenched into fists on the counter, uncertain of what to do.
âWhat game?â You asked in a soft yet timid voice. âIâm just trying to help.â
âUnwanted help would only be an imposition. Thereâs no one here who wants your help. Is that so hard to understand, or are you really daft?â
As Tomas quickly rose from his seat, the chair made a painful squeal against the floor. âBi-Han! Take back your words.â
âDo you realize who you are defending from whom?â Bi-Han growled, his demeanor emanating a threatening coldness, yet there was a determination in Tomasâs stance that he would not back down from his statement. Although Kuai Liang still couldnât decipher how things had escalated to this point in just a week, he intervened to diffuse the situation before it escalated further.
âGuys-â
However, you acted before him, placing one hand on Tomasâs arm and drawing his attention back very easily, as if you had pressed a button.
âItâs all right, Tomas,â you said in a kind voice.
âBut-â
âItâs alright,â your voice was still gentle, but there was also a certainty that emphasized the words. âThereâs no harm, Iâm fine.â After gently patting him on the arm, you continued to talk, focusing your gaze on one point rather than turning to them. On the other hand, you got up from where you were sitting and started picking up the mess on the counter. âI have a job interview, I wonât be here for a few hours. Iâll be back before sundown.â Just before closing your notebook, you suddenly turned your head to Kuai Liang as if something had occurred to you. âOh, I almost forgot. On my way back, Iâll stop by the grocery store and shop for a few necessities for home. Is there a dish you like?â
Kuai Liang was stunned by this unexpected question. âA dish I like?â he echoed, his brows furrowing and incredulity evident in his voice. Despite the tension that just happened, you still answered his question with a small smile that you managed to put on your face.
âYes. I want to make a meal that you like to celebrate your recovery; Iâm sure youâll feel better.â
***
âWhy do you have to keep being rude?â As Tomas paced angrily around the room, Bi-Han lounged on a single sofa, spreading his legs in a relaxed manner that suggested he was indifferent to the situation. Kuai Liang observed the two of them, sensing a tingling at the nape of his neckâa foreboding sign of the headache that was about to enter his head.
âIâm tired of explaining, but youâre still not tired of asking same questions. I can actually understand why youâre getting along with her so well; youâre both terribly insistent on not understanding.â
âYouâre only acting like a bully by being rude to someone who doesnât deserve it,â said Tomas, as he stopped pacing and stood in front of Bi-Han. Bi-Han tilted his head back slightly, maintaining eye contact with Tomas and quietly responding to his challenge. While it was common for the two of them to struggle to find common ground and for Kuai Liang to act as mediator, this confrontation felt different. Tomas was resolute in his determination to protect you, leading him to confront Bi-Han. The presence of someone unfamiliar getting under his brotherâs skin was evident. Kuai Liang found himself straddling the line between frustration over the situation and concern for Tomas.
âSheâs already wrapped you around her finger. Just like Leilani-â
âDonât mention her name,â Tomas interjected, his voice unusually harsh. âThere is a difference between them; she is a really nice person. Is it that hard to believe?â
âAnd so youâve figured it out in a short period of time, like a week. Congratulations to you. I wish you could really hit it this time compared to last time.â
âBi-Han-â
When Kuai Liang rose to intervene with a warning tone, Tomas acted before him and grabbed Bi-Han with a rustle, at a speed that even Bi-Han could not decipher.
âDo you know what your problem is? Youâre a coward.â
âTomas-â
âLet him finish, Kuai Liang,â said Bi-Han, his voice eerily calm.
âYouâre afraid to trust, arenât you? Thatâs why youâre like this; you donât want to let anyone near you through your arrogant walls.â
Tomasâ words hung heavily in the air, a tense silence covering the room as his words echoed on the walls. Bi-Hanâs expression was illegible, but Kuai Liang could feel the anger boiling under the surface. After all, he knew his brother well enough to understand when his boundaries were being pushed.
âYou think you understand everything, donât you?â Bi-Han retorted, his voice piercingly cold. âYou, who wear your heart on your sleeve, dare to juge me?â
âIâm not judging you; Iâm just stating the truth.â After Tomas finished his words, he released Bi-Han and left the room in a cloud of smoke. Kuai Liang heard the faint click of the study door closing nearby.
âYouâre going at him too hard,â He said with a sigh. âEven if he has an interest in her, donât turn it into spite with your approach.â
ââDo you think itâs up to my approach? Just look at him, heâs already under her spell.ââ Bi-Han argued.
ââEven so, he is our brother. He needs our support. Stop setting him against you.ââ
ââHe is the one who confronted us for the woman.ââ
ââYouâre the one who triggered it,ââ Kuai Liang said, his patience wearing thin. ââGo get some air, collect your thoughts. Iâll take care of Tomas.ââ
ââGive him some mind.ââ
Due to the small size of the house, Kuai Liang easily left the living room behind. When he reached the study, he softly opened the door and entered. Tomas stood a little further away, in front of the window, arms crossed, watching outside silently. He spoke in a dry voice without turning his head, even though he heard Kuai Liangâs approach.
ââIf youâre going to say the same things as Bi-Han, donât bother at all.ââ
âWe are both thinking only of your well-being, Tomas.ââ
âCome on, Kuai Liang, Iâd rather you speak for yourself,ââ Tomas retorted. Kuai Liang gently placed a hand on his brotherâs shoulder. Tomas didnât push it away, but he still didnât turn his head, his gaze fixed outside, his expression tense, the muscle on his chin clearly showing that he was angry about what had happened.
ââYou know Bi-Han, he may seem cold from the outside, but you know as well as I that he cares, he just fails to show it.ââ
âOkay, maybe thereâs some merit to his worries, but she didnât do anything to deserve it, the only thing sheâs shown us since the moment we came out of the book is just kindness, Kuai Liang. Thanks to her, I can sleep. You know too well what this means to me.ââ Tomas finally met his eyes, sincerity evident in his gaze. ââI want you to give her a chance.ââ
âTomas-ââ
âI know you donât trust her, but trust me,â his brother said, his voice tinged with a plea. âI understand Iâm asking too much, but if you give her a chance, youâll understand what I meant.â
Kuai Liang was at a loss for words. Tomas was more attached than he thought. Trust? He should have known that this was not possible, especially after what happened to them and the memories that still haunted his nightmares⊠He decided to drop the subject for now, it was clear they wouldnât get anywhere if this matter dragged on.
When Kuai Liang initiated a small conversation to find out what had been going on for a week, Tomas set aside the tension and began to provide him with a summary of recent events. Kuai Liang observed his brotherâs eyes light up and an small smile grace his face as he spoke about you. Despite appreciating Tomasâs strength in choosing to trust you, Kuai Liang couldnât shake the bitter pain of the possibility of leaving wreckage in its wake. Collecting the pieces was becoming increasingly difficult, and this time, the prospect of there being any pieces left to gather was doubtful.
As time passed and the sun set, casting colorful lights across the cityscape outside the window, Kuai Liang felt his body slowly begin to ache. His joints felt as though there was no cartilage between them, his mouth was dry, and his eyes burned. A throbbing headache started to pulse at his temples, while a wave of dizziness washed over him, causing him to sway unsteadily for a moment. Tomas, too, rubbed his eyes, indicating that he was experiencing similar symptoms.
âHow many hours has she been gone?â Kuai Liang asked as he left the room, with Tomas trailing behind him.
âFour or five hours, I think.â
He found Bi-Han standing up and scratching his arms almost to the point of bleeding, Kuai Liang called out to him to stop. Bi-Han, however, seemed oblivious to his surroundings. For some reason, Bi-Han was the most sensitive among them. While Kuai Liang and Tomas could endure their masterâs absences for a while, Bi-Han almost lost his mind during those times. The icy force that cocooned him decayed, and when faced with the outside world, Bi-Han couldnât adapt to the change in temperature, causing his skin to painfully burn.
âBi-Han! You have to stop before you hurt yourself,ââ Kuai Liang urged as he grabbed one of Bi-Hanâs wrists and tried to pull him out of the trance. Bi-Han, lost in his agitation, initially didnât register Kuai Liangâs presence, snarling like a wild animal and glaring with a crazed look in his eyes. Undeterred, Kuai Liang maintained his calm demeanor and tried again, ââYouâre hurting yourself brother. You have to stop.ââ
With a blink, Bi-Han snapped out of his trance, wrenching his wrist from Kuai Liangâs grip with force as he regained his composure, cursing angrily.
ââWhere the hell has this damn woman disappeared to? She should have been here hours ago!ââ.
âThis is the first time this has happened,â Tomas intervened, approaching them with a nervous look on his face. âCould something have happened to her?â
Kuai Liang had considered this possibility as well. If you were truly as kind-hearted as Tomas claimed, your intention couldnât have been to cause them suffering, even if you knew they would be weakened by your absence. He knew that Tomas struggled to adapt to the outside world after emerging from the book, and Bi-Han would have been incapable of going out to search for you in that state, likely resorting to attacking someone or causing further harm to himself.
ââIâll go look after her, you stay here.ââ Ultimately, Kuai Liang decided it was best for him to handle the situation himself.
ââIâm going with you too,ââ Tomas insisted.
ââNo, you stay with Bi-Han. Itâs better that heâs not alone in this state.ââ
ââIâm not a cripple-ââ Bi-Han began, but his words trailed off as the front door swung open. All three turned towards the door as you entered, raincoat soaked and holding a wet paper bag in one hand while the other seemed to conceal something under your raincoat. As your presence instantly offered them relief, Bi-Han lunged forward, bypassing any attempts to stop him, and positioned himself next to you, his stance emitting threatening signals from all sides.
ââWhere the hell have you been?ââ he demanded, leaning in closer. As Bi-Han cornered you, Kuai Liang moved to intervene with Tomas, while you attempted to explain yourself with a nervous, agitated tone. Startled by the tension, the paper bag slipped from your hand and fell to the ground.
ââIâm so sorry! On my way back, I found this kitten.â you said. Opening the front of your raincoat, you revealed the tiny feline tucked inside. Its meowing broke the tension as its head emerged. Tomas and Kuai Liang flanked Bi-Han, their attention captured by the small, pitiful-looking kitten. With a completely black body, its fur contrasted sharply with the white around its gray eyes and the pink tip of its nose. Its ears stood erect atop its small head.
ââIt was on the side of the road, its mother had been hit by a car, and its siblings had also perished. I discovered it nestled among them, trying to find warmth. I couldnât leave it there,â you explained, your voice soft with compassion.
Bi-Han scoffed, âYou have no livelihood, and your house is too small for all of us to fit in. As if all this wasnât enough, are you going to try to take care of a fleabag now?ââ Despite his botherâs harsh and offensive words, the kind expression on your face while caring for the kitten remained unchanged.
âI will be its foster home. When it gets well enough, itâll go to its real family.â
Bi-Han glanced at you briefly, muttering, âWhatever,â before pivoting on his heels and retreating to the living room. Tomas came up to you, giving you a little kiss on the top of your head and stroking the kitten that was perched on your lap. Relief washed over his face after he confirmed that you hadnât suffered any harm.
âAre you going to give her a name?â he asked curiously.
âYes, because it feels strange in my head to constantly call it âkitten.â Does anyone have any ideas?â When your gaze turned to both of them, Kuai Liang remained silent, captivated by your image. Your cheeks and the tip of your nose were flushed from the rain outside, your skin and hair wet, and a sincere smile hidden on your face that touched his heart. You looked painfully innocent standing there with the kitten in your lap, a different image from the masters of the other book he had encountered so far.
âHow about the name of that actor we watched last time?â Said Tomas, as he continued to stroke the kittenâs chin. The kittenâs eyes were closed in happiness, emitting loud purrs that reverberated through its tiny body, indicating how much it enjoyed being petted.
âJohnny Cage?â A small laugh poured from your lips. Kuai Liang tried not to dwell on how sweet and addictive your laugh had an air. âIâm sorry, but I think itâs a lady, Tomas. Oh, I found it! How about Ninja? She is a warrior just like you guys.â
âWe are not ninjas,â Kuai Liang couldnât help himself but chuckle at your suggestion. âBut because the fur around her eyes is white, it looks like sheâs wearing a mask. Ninja is actually not a bad name.â
âYes, it suits her.â
âGood, then from now on your name is Ninja, little one. I couldnât get the job, but I found you, so I guess itâs a win-win.â you said, stroking the kittenâs head. âI need to wash her thoroughly, sheâs too dirty. After that, Iâll start on cooking. Is everyone hungry?â
***
Kuai Liang was completely silent as he looked at the plate you left in front of him. He didnât really think you were going to make the food he liked.
ââWhatâs the matter?ââ Tomas looked at him with sidelong eyes while stuffing a generous amount of morsel into his mouth. ââYou havenât even touched your plate once.ââ
ââArenât you hungry?ââ You said in a slightly worried voice. Kuai Liang lifted his gaze from the food in front of him and looked at you. As he met your gaze, he noticed the fatigue evident in your eyes, weariness etched into their corners. Kuai Liang muttered in a voice that sounded foreign to his own ear.
ââThis is jiaozi.ââ He said, as if that cleared everything up.
ââYes.ââ You continued to speak despite your statement that you did not understand what he meant. ââIâve never done it before, so I had to look on the internet a little. Did I do it wrong?ââ
Against the innocent question, Kuai Liang found himself confronting a flood of unfamiliar emotions. The last time he ate Jiaoziâalso known as Chinese dumplingsâwas at Lin Kuei, and their father had not yet died. Kuai Liang had always liked eating this food. Normally, eating was more mechanical for him because of his metabolism, and it was an action he needed to do to survive, but he ate this meal completely arbitrarily. Now, years later, seeing this dish in front of him again made him feel nostalgic along with feelings he couldnât name. Moreover, even though you didnât know how to make this dish, the fact that you tried just because you knew that he loved it deeply affected him and changed the rhythm of his heart for a moment. For the first time, he felt cared for by someone outside of his family.
ââNo, it looks fine.ââ He said, in a voice that was hard to hear.
ââThen you better taste it before it gets cold.ââ After Tomas poked him with his shoulder, Kuai Liang picked up one of the dumplings with his chopsticks and put it in his mouth. A contented hum escaped his throat as the flavor he had forgotten instantly flooded his palate, taking him back to his memories.
ââItâs quite delicious.ââ He said, appreciating your hard work without concealment. ââThank you.ââ
With those words, a genuine smile lit up your face, radiating warmth and sincerity that momentarily stole Kuai Liangâs breath away. He couldnât help but marvel at the allure you possessed, understanding a little better now why Tomas was drawn to you. Your sincerity and infectious smile had a way of making others believe, effortlessly bridging any gaps in communication. It was easy to forget your role as the owner of the book when you interacted with them so naturally, blurring the lines between master and slave with remarkable ease.
âGreat, because I made a pot full of this, itâs nice that you like it.ââ You said with a chuckle. Then you left them for a minute to give Ninja the little plate you had prepared. After you had cleaned and dried Ninja nicely, you released her to explore the house. The kitten had adapted to the environment as easily as if she had been a member of this house for years. There was no indication in her small body that she was afraid of them. In fact, on the contrary, she was constantly chasing Bi-Han as if she was thirsty for his attention. Bi-Han finally couldnât stand the kittenâs high-pitched meows and chasing after him anymore, so he went into the study and closed the door behind him. Ninja had not left the door since he had entered the room.
ââCome along, sweet thing, itâs dinnertime.ââ
You returned with Ninja on your lap, and when you placed her on the floor and left the food you had prepared in front of her, Ninja completely forgot about Bi-Han and focused on the food in front of her. Kuai Liang slightly stretched out from his seat, watched the kitten eating with a half smile, attacking her food with a great appetite and emitting strange, happy noises.
ââIf you donât want to turn into an ice floe, I suggest you donât follow that grump.ââ said Tomas, swallowing the morsel he was chewing.
ââI think heâll get used to it,ââ your soft voice was tinged with hope as you reached for your own plate. ââWho can say no to a cute kitten?ââ
ââBi-Han, of course.ââ Tomas quipped.
ââMaybe he can get used to it after spending some time,ââ Kuai Liang said, joining you. ââNinja looks pretty convincing.ââ
ââIsnât she?ââ Laughing, you raised your own glass of the wine you had opened with the meal. ââTo Ninja.ââ
Tomas and Kuai Liang also chuckled and raised their glasses, clinking them together. As Kuai Liang took a sip of his wine, he felt inexplicably light at that moment, as if the damage that the past years had left on his body and mind had lifted a little, leaving him temporarily free to enjoy the moment. After allowing himself to eat as much as he wanted again, just like in porridge, Kuai Liang once again encountered the strangeness of feeling his stomach full. It didnât seem like this feeling could get used to for a while longer.
As he lay on the sofa, one hand over his stomach and the other behind his head, many thoughts ran through his mind. They helped you clean up after dinner, and when you retreated to your room after saying that the day was tiring and you couldnât stand up anymore, Tomasâand of course Ninjaâfollowed you.
Even though he guessed that the two of you were sleeping together, it felt different to witness it. Itâs like⊠itâs like he wanted to be there, in that bed with you, even though he didnât want to admit it, even though he didnât want to think about it. There was a kind of jealousy in his feelings this time, rather than his concern for Tomas. He could see how good you were for Tomas, and a part of him longed for that connection too. It was like catching a glimpse of heaven, yet he couldnât fully embrace it. He both wanted and didnât want more, the conflict he fell into was incomprehensible even to himself.
Although Kuai Liang couldnât understand how it happened, his eyes closed after a while, and he found himself facing one of his old memories.
ââCome here, Kuai Liang.ââ
Leilaniâs voice was alluring yet toxic as she pulled on the chain attached to his collar, coaxing him into bed. He despised the collar, feeling like a mere animal under her control. Despite his inner protest, he knelt beside her on the satin sheets. A satisfied smile appeared on Leilaniâs face as he knelt down.
Kuai Liang was surprised more and more every time how he could have been attracted to this woman once. It was a ridiculous situation to have allowed himself to be deceived so easily; now when he looked, all he saw was nothing more than a venomous snake, dangerous, cruel, and selfish.
ââI will host a celebration tomorrow, and some of my most important guests will be in attendance. While Tomas doesnât have problems getting hard quickly due to his youth, I need someone who can go more than a few rounds. Taming Bi-Han can be tiresome; his stubbornness is often exhausting.â When Leilani grasped his manhood and caressed it with interest, although Kuai Liang maintained his expressionlessness, his skin stretched in disgust. He couldnât stand the touch of this woman. ââYou know what I want from you, donât you? Have no doubt that I will reward you well, Kuai Liang. You know, I keep my word.ââ
Kuai Liang wanted to scream, telling her to hold her forked tongue between her teeth to her face. This was almost a need rather than a desire; it had been a long time since her hollow promises had lost their meaning for him. After he remained silent, Leilani pulled the chain harder. With a sudden tightening of his throat, his breath remained congested in his throat, and a muffled sound left his lips.
ââI cannot hear that you approve of my words,ââ Leilani said, almost hissing. He was clenching his jaw, pressing his teeth together so hard that for a moment he thought they would break under the pressure he was applying. When he managed to say the words, albeit with difficulty, Leilaniâs dark green eyes shone with satisfied sparkles.
ââThat is my warrior, always ready to satisfy.ââ
As Kuai Liang opened his eyes with a sharp breath, the morning sun greeted him warmly, casting a golden glow across the room. He blinked away the remnants of nightmare, his hand instinctively reaching to brush aside the strands of hair that had fallen across his face during the night. When he heard the front door click, he opened one eye and turned towards the door, only to find you there, looking slightly guilty as if caught in the act.
âGood morning. Did I wake you up again?â you asked in a whispering voice.
âNo, Iâve just woken up,â Kuai Liang replied, his brow furrowing slightly as he noticed your attire. âAre you going somewhere?â
âI need to buy cat litter and food for Ninja. Would you like to accompany me? It wonât take long.â you offered. Thinking it would be beneficial to get some fresh air and distance himself from the walls that surrounded him, Kuai Liang accepted your invitation. Since he was already warm enough, he didnât bother to grab any additional clothing, knowing that none of your clothes would fit him anyway. As you walked out of the apartment together, he took a deep breath, relishing the scent of the earth after last nightâs rain. The clean smell soothed his heart, which had been beating irregularly, and the act of stepping outside helped to ease his tense muscles and nerves.
âDid you sleep well?â
Kuai Liang decided to be honest in his response, knowing he shouldnât hide the truth from you. His expression clearly conveyed that he hadnât slept well, and there was no point in pretending otherwise.
âNo, I usually have nightmares quite often. So even though I can sleep, I canât say itâs âgood,ââ he admitted.
Your face softened under the morning sun, your caring gaze causing his heart to flutter. Your words were laced with sadness, mirroring the same emotion in your eyes.
âI use aromatherapy candles to help Tomas sleep, and they obviously work. If you want, I can give them to you to help. Maybe theyâll help you relax a little and prevent the nightmares,â you suggested, your voice filled with hope and sincerity. Kuai Liang considered your offer while silently studying you. It wasnât just the candles that helped Tomas sleep; it was your presence. Your presence brought him peace. But he didnât voice that sentiment out loud.
âThank you,â he said finally. âIâd like to try.â
After responding to his answer with a smile, you began to introduce him to the surroundings. As you talked about where you usually shop for groceries and how you like to buy yourself coffee and sweet rolls from the little coffee shop on the corner from time to time, especially when the weather is nice in the nearby park, you take your book and read or go for a walk. With each detail about your everyday life, Kuai Liang felt himself decelerating even more as he listened to you, and the traces of his nightmare were erased from his mind.
As you recounted a funny incident to him, you couldnât help but chuckle at the memory. You explained how, in the past, you were walking through the park, lost in thought, when suddenly a squirrel darted out from a nearby bush and startled you. Startled, you leaped back in surprise, only to trip over a wayward tree root and land flat on your back, much to the amusement of onlookers nearby.
ââI hope you didnât frighten the poor squirrel too much,â Kuai Liang raised an eyebrow, his eyes alight with amusement. It was a feeling he hadnât experienced in agesâsimple, almost childlike, yet undeniably refreshing. He felt free from the weight of his past, not defined by his role as a slave or an assassin at the moment.
ââHey, he scared me first. Besides, weâve already negotiated a peace treaty since then. I even gave him a few nuts as a gesture of goodwill,â you replied, a sweet giggle escaping your lips.
âAh, so youâre a diplomat as well as⊠What? A squirrel whisperer?â he quipped, a small, teasing smirk playing at the corners of his lips. A sense of disbelief washed over himâhow could he find such joy, effortlessly smiling and laughing, with not a single troubling thought in his head.
You laughed at his response, the sound ringing out joyfully in the quiet street. Kuai Liang found himself captivated by the sight of you, so carefree and full of life. It made you seem so much younger and more beautiful, your eyes sparkling with mirth, your cheeks flushed with laughter. In that moment, he felt a swell of pride, knowing that he could bring such joy to you with just a simple exchange. It was almost magical to witness firsthand, and he couldnât help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share this moment with you.
âI named him Theodore, after a character from a kidsâ movie,â you explained with a smile. âHeâs quite a chubby squirrel, but youâll like him. Heâs got quite the personality.â
***
It had been a week and a half since Kuai Liang had ventured out of bed, and during that time, he found himself gradually becoming accustomed to your constant presence. Despite his initial resistance, he couldnât deny the magnetic pull you seemed to have on him. Every unexpected gesture or interaction only served to deepen his connection to you, making it increasingly difficult for him to maintain his distance.
Despite your respectful boundaries and reluctance to initiate physical intimacy, Kuai Liang couldnât help but be captivated by the chemistry between you and Tomas. Your gentle exchanges and tender gazes toward his brothers stirred a longing within him, a desire to be a part of the connection you shared. Yet, his past experiences lingered like a shadow, a constant reminder of the risks involved in opening up to vulnerability. So, Kuai Liang found himself silently observing from a distance, still caught between the yearning for connection and the past wounds resurfacing. Though he longed to bridge the gap between himself and the warmth you and Tomas shared, he remained rooted in hesitation, unable to take the leap of faith. Thus, he stayed in the background, watching and wanting, but unable to dare to take action.
Taking a deep breath of the lavender-scented candle that you had left in the room, Kuai Liang tried to relax his body and quiet his mind. With each inhale, the calming scent enveloped him, easing the tension from his muscles and soothing his restless thoughts.
With another breath, he started to ascend into the waiting darkness, his body going lax, mind numbing. Everything smelled of lavender, mingled with the faint scent of you.
âStand here, Tomas. And you, Bi-Han. Kuai Liang, come forward,â Leilaniâs voice rang out within the hall as she positioned them in front of the gathered guests. Tomas stood with a stoic resolve, Bi-Hanâs gaze betrayed a mix of defiance and resignation, while his eyes held a glimmer of suppressed rage. Leilani, draped in luxurious attire, circled them like a queen inspecting her subjects.
âDonât let the youngest brotherâs appearance fool you; Tomas is well-behaved and knows exactly how to please his lovers, always eager to satisfy their desires. As for Bi-Han, the eldest, he relishes in taking the dominant role in bed, but heâs also open to relinquishing control when desired. And then thereâs Kuai Liang, the middle brother,â Leilani declared with a coy smile. She moved closer to him, her warm breath tickling his neck as she nibbled on his earlobe.
âHeâs the feisty one, capable of enduring for hours thanks to his incredible stamina. If youâre looking to extend your pleasure beyond a couple of rounds, heâs my favorite in that regard,â she murmured seductively. Leilaniâs words dripped with temptation, accentuating their prowess in the bedroom as she enticed her guests. The guests murmured amongst themselves, their eyes darting between Leilani and them. Tomas clenched his jaw in silent fury, Bi-Hanâs fists tightened at his sides, he remained outwardly stoic, though inwardly he seethed with anger and humiliation.
As Leilaniâs hand trailed down his chest, he fought back a grimace, his skin recoiling at her touch. Silently, he masked the turmoil within, but beneath the surface, a fierce determination smolderedâto break free from the chains that bound him to this life of servitude and degradation.
Kuai Liang woke up with a gasp when he heard someone call his name in the distance, feeling a rough wetness on his cheek. As he registered Ninjaâs hot breath on his face, he struggled to comprehend the situation. How had he not noticed the kitten climb onto his lap? Ninja meowed, rubbing her little head against his chin, and with her purrs, she nestled herself in the area between his chin and neck, settling down to rest.
ââKuai Liang?ââ
Hearing your voice nearby, Kuai Liang was careful not to disturb the kittenâs comfort, turning his head slightly to the side and looking at you. Thanks to the city lights outside, he could easily pick out your facial contours. You were on your knees so that you could see him more comfortably, your expression was worried, your eyebrows furrowed as you carefully examined him, wearing an old plush dressing gown.
ââAre you all right?ââ
ââHave you been watching me?ââ Kuai Liangâs voice sounded so muffled that it seemed foreign and incomprehensible even to his own ears.
ââNo, actually, I came to drink some water. I heard you mumbling, thought you were having a nightmare. Thatâs why I wanted to wake you up.ââ
Before Kuai Liang straightened up, he took Ninja on his lap and leaned his back against the armrest of the couch. He carefully stroked the kittenâs soft head, drawing a deep breath into his lungs. Her body was almost the size of his hand, so small that Kuai Liang was afraid of accidentally hurting the kitten. However, for Ninja, it didnât seem to matter how big he was; she surrendered herself completely to his touch, content. Her happy purrs filled the silence.
Kuai Liang had never thought that he could be grateful for the existence of a kitten before, but right now, he was more grateful than ever for being distracted. It had alienated him from the imaginary hands and touches that were wandering on his skin.
âYes,â Kuai Liang said after a while. ââI was having nightmares about my past.ââ
Upon his answer, you sat down in the single seat opposite him and asked in a polite, even voice that showed you were a little afraid to express it.
ââDo you want to talk about it?ââ
Kuai Liang wanted to dismiss the matter by saying no at first, but then, Tomasâ words echoed in his mind and stopped him.
âI know you donât trust her, but trust me.â
Kuai Liang thought that he was smart enough not to make the same mistake a second time. Until this moment. Something inside him, a feeling, an impulse, or whatever it was, whispered that he could trust you. Even though it seemed stupid, Kuai Liang wanted to try it. Maybe he hadnât fully recovered from his nightmare yet, maybe he was aware of everything, contrary to the fact that he was fooling himself, and he still wanted to do it. Regardless of the reason, they all came to the same conclusion in the end.
ââHer name was Leilani. She was the sixteenth owner of the book.ââ
Kuai Liang spoke in a tone of voice that only you could hear. He could imagine the reactions his brothers would have if they heard him mention Leilani, and he didnât feel healthy and in control enough to deal with them right now. His emotions and thoughts were everywhere; the thing that held him together was the tiny kitten on his lap and your presence, keeping him calm.
âLeilani was a sorceress who lived in the Outworld lands, not particularly powerful but was well known and had important connections throughout Outworld. The book had reached her through a merchant.ââ Kuai Liang said, despite his body convulsing with tension as he resurfaced those memories, he continued. When he mentioned that she had an approach that set her apart from other masters, that she might even find a solution to this curse like you, he watched your expression clash with a mix of surprise and resentment. From what he gathered from your reaction, Tomas had briefed you on what happened.
Despite the tension coursing through his body, the words flowed easily from his lips, one by one. When he reached the part about how Leilani won their trust, you remained as still as a statue. Leilani had always been kind and overly generous to them, until she revealed her true colors. She indulged their desires, bought them separate gifts, and made sure they were satisfied. It wasnât difficult for them to believe her, as it was the first time someone had approached them like this since they were sealed inside the book. However, from that moment on, Leilani underwent a complete transformation. Now that she knew she had their trust, she began to play a different game with them.
No master had ever bothered to toy with their hopes before; typically, it was just orders and dark desires to be fulfilled. But for Leilani, playing with their hopes was more enjoyable than giving orders. She claimed to have found a way to save them from the curse, starting with seemingly harmless requests. At first, neither he nor his brothers were bothered by these small tasks. However, as the requests began to erode their pride, they realized the truth: Leilani was playing with them like a cat with a mouse. There was no freedom, no guarantee that her promises would be fulfilledâit was all just part of her game.
Especially when parties were held, it was the time that Leilani enjoyed the most. She liked to humiliate them in front of everyone, to highlight their weaknesses, which she knew very well, to announce that they were the deadliest assassins of a noble clan before, but now they were love slaves, to see them used as objects.
âI know Tomas doesnât like the dark; you wouldnât want me to lock your brother in a room with no light for a week, would you?â
âI discovered by chance last week that Bi-Han has a lot of sensitivity to my absence. You donât want me to test how much longer he can stand it, do you Kuai Liang? Be a good slave and follow my orders.â
âSo the famous assassins of Lin Kuei⊠to come to this point now must be quite crushing your pride. You are nothing more than an object waiting to be used for my desires and nothing more.â
âRemember who holds the power here, who controls your fate.â
As Leilaniâs laughter rang in his mind, at one point when he ran out of words and had nothing more to tell, a silence fell over the room. Kuai Liang was surprised that he had told so much; obviously, he had not expected himself to perform like this. While he was trying to digest that, you suddenly filled his vision and hugged him tightly without crushing Ninja. Kuai Liang remained motionless, his body stiffening as his muscles reflexively contracted. But when he felt hot tears on his shoulder, his whole system was turned upside down.
ââAre you crying?ââ He said in an incredulous voice.
ââYes, I- oh my, Iâm sorry. Just give me a second, please.ââ When you just stood there without taking your head out of your hiding place, Kuai Liang remained motionless. He could have easily got out of your grip if he wanted, but your touch relaxed him in a way he hadnât expected and made him feel⊠good. Your hug was sincere, caring, and full of emotion. His arms moved before his brain, hugging you in the same way; he gently pressed your body to his, feeling your soft and tender touch against his own hard-contoured body. Kuai Liang involuntarily inhaled the clean scent rising from your skin that touched his nose and felt his body relax a little more with the air filling his lungs.
At that exact moment, Ninja squealed because she was stuck between you, and when you both startled and recoiled, the kitten jumped straight from his lap to the ground.
ââIâm sorry, my friend,ââ said Kuai Liang, apologetically trying to stroke the kittenâs head. ââI forgot for a moment that you were there.ââ
Fortunately, Ninja seemed to have accepted his apology, allowing her head to be stroked. Then, as she caught the tassels of the carpet on the floor and jumped on them, Kuai Liangâs gaze was fixed on you.
Tears were still flowing softly from your eyes, your expression was so sad that Kuai Liangâs heart contracted with pain at the sight of you, the need to be able to put a smile on your face overwhelmed him. Taking your face between his palms, he asked in a gentle voice. Whenever he touched you, he felt a tingling sensation, like a harmless but enticing spark.
âWhy are you crying?â
âI am so angry,â you replied, your voice carrying a mix of harshness and innocence. âI feel such a need to hurt someone for the second time.â
âWhoâs the first?â
âQuan Chi,â you said in one breath, attempting to wipe away the tears. Kuai Liang stopped you, his calloused fingertips gently caressing your delicate skin. It felt natural, as if breathing. Even with Leilani, he had never felt such closeness. Was this what Tomas meant?
âNow I understand better why you donât want to trust. How can a person trust again after all this? This is so cruel.â Kuai Liang felt his heart soften towards you, seeing the tears you shed for them. Neither Leilani nor anyone else felt sorry for them, shed tears, or got angry on their behalf in this way. Frankly, as of now, it didnât even feel right to compare you to others. Kuai Liang reflected on the stark difference in your empathy and care compared to their previous experiences. âI will help you as much as I can, Kuai Liang. I told Tomas, but I want you to hear and know, too, that I will never lie to you like I have found a solution and play with your hopes. I donât expect you to believe this, of course, but I want you to know.â
âThank you,â Kuai Liang said sincerely. âItâs very rare for Tomas to trust someone other than us. I can see youâre good for him. Itâs enough for me that you keep this up, he deserves to be happy more than enough.â
âYou all deserve it,â you said with a slight reproach in your voice, but your gaze remained loving and sad. âI know how precious this is. Iâll keep it safe with me, and I promise to keep you all safe as well. I wonât let any harm come to you again. Although I havenât been able to find a solution for the curse right now, at least I can offer you this safe space for now.â
Kuai Liang felt his heart melt completely, enveloped in a warmth so sweet and soft it felt like an embrace. His gaze shifted to your hand, where a scar marred the otherwise delicate skin of your palm. As he gently clasped your hand and cradled it in his own, his fingers traced the faint outline of the scar. He couldnât still grasp the idea that you had hurt yourself for their sake. When his hand slipped to your wrist and he planted a tender kiss on the palm of your hand, he heard a broken breath escape you.
âYou are a good person,â Kuai Liang said, the words coming out of his lips as if he was reassuring himself. Although it was ridiculous that he had fallen into the same situation as Tomas now, despite advising caution, Kuai Liang felt his walls crumbling with every passing second. He was tired of constantly protecting himself, erecting barriers around his heart, and remaining on guard. Battling all his life had left him exhausted, and now, despite the fire within him, Kuai Liang longed for a moment of respite, a chance to calm his body and clear his confused mind. And the solution was only a few breaths away.
You didnât employ fancy words like Leilani, nor did you shower them with flashy gifts or overwhelm them with compliments. You didnât exude dominance or pose a silent threat with your presence. There were no orders or rules; in short, you were unlike any master or people they had encountered before. Your speech was naive, your presence harmless, and though your financial situation might not have been affluent, your heart was undeniably generous. You sought to make them as comfortable as possible, ensuring they were full and now even opening your doors to a kitten.
When his gaze shifted to the supposed kitten, he saw Ninja lying a little further away, on her back, her round stuffed belly in clear view. A chuckle escaped his lips at the sight.
âCats can tell if a person has good intentions or not,â he said, backing up his earlier words. When your attention shifted to Ninja like his, your small genuine laugh filled the room.
âSo Ninja played a part in you coming to this conclusion, did she?â
âI canât deny that Tomas had an influence on this, though not as much as Ninja.â Kuai Liang admitted.
âJust them?â you asked, your expression a bit playful, but mostly covered with a timidity that showed you were still unsure of his reaction. Kuai Liang felt his heart tremble with the look of you.
Before answering, he gently touched your hair with one hand, his fingers moving between the tufts, appreciating the sensation of freedom from any constraints. The label of âslaveâ had been with him for so long that he had forgotten what it meant to behave like a normal person. As his hand moved from your hair to your soft cheek, you didnât flinch away. Instead, when you leaned into his touch, just like a cat, Kuai Liangâs heart swelled with the burgeoning interest he was starting to feel towards you.
ââHow is it possible that I can ignore your influence,ââ Kuai Liang said in a voice filled with awe. ââYouâre like a dream I never expected to come true.ââ
With his words, your expression softened so much that while tears glistened in your eyes again, the most loving smile settled on your beautiful face that he had ever seen. Then, as if something dawned on you, you chuckled wetly, a sign that you were about to cry.
ââTomas had predicted this would happen,ââ you said.
ââHow so? Did you both plan this?ââ
Against the pure curiosity in his voice, you let out another giggle. Then, as you shook your head from side to side, meaning no, you placed one hand on his cheek and gently stroked his skin with your thumb. In that moment, the question marks in Kuai Liangâs head became silent.
ââItâs just your brother knows you too well,ââ When the look on your flushed face and shy gaze landed on his lips, Kuai Liang felt his heart quicken and his body fill with anticipation. You asked with a feather soft voice, ââMay I kiss you?ââ
Instead of answering, Kuai Liang inclined his head, finding your lips without hesitation. With a sigh, you welcomed him, lips parting in acceptance as he drew you closer, his other hand gently encircling your waist. The kiss was slow, unhurried, and tender, as if time stood still and belonged only to them. Your tenderness shook the walls around Kuai Liang even more deeply than before. It was as if you feared hurting him, a sensation he had never experienced, let alone kissed with such care. His heart pounded with a fierce rhythm, ignited by a wild protective instinct.
You were a unique presence, offering a glimpse of the man he once was, a rarity he had never encountered before. In return, Kuai Liang longed to learn every facet of you, to etch even the smallest details into his memory. âThis must be what they call addiction,â he thought. This was the only way he could best describe the effect you had on him.
As your body touched his, your fingers gently entwining between his long black hair, and your eyes closed in trust, Kuai Liang found himself experiencing a feeling he had never tasted before. It was more than an instant sensation; it hit him like a slap and shook his very existence. It felt like completion. You were filling a part of himself that he didnât even know was missing. You were the hope he dared not embrace, the goodness that remained pure in a world of ugliness. Being able to touch you was a lifeline, anchoring him to reality and reminding him that this was really happening, that you were here, on his lap, between his arms.
When Kuai Liang kissed you with a deeper, awakening passion, you didnât resist. Instead, you put your arms around his neck, your grip soft and yielding, showing once again that you left the choice to him rather than demanding more. You were simply there, touching him, and it was clear from everything that you were content with just that.
He wanted to laugh at Tomas for knowing him better than he knew himself, but a strange lump formed in his throat, making it difficult to swallow. Part of him felt tainted by the countless bodies he had touched, as if no matter how much he scrubbed his skin clean, he could never rid himself of the imaginary hands that had touched, grasped, clawed, and caressed him. Lips that kissed and bit him, leaving their forever mark. Thus, he felt as though he had stained you by touching you. But the selfish, hungry part of him, which brought to the surface all the forgotten feelings, was more dominant; he wanted you. And because he had chosen to open his heart for the first time, he wanted to believe that you would keep it safe, as you promised.
Perhaps this time, there was no need for him to protect his heart behind its walls.
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I love your art how long did it take for u to get good,also for digital do u use your fingers or a ipen?
Thank you! Iâve always enjoyed drawing, but I only started digital art about four to five years ago when I bought an iPad along with its pencil. It was quite challenging for me to get used to it at first. However, over the past year, I feel like Iâve improved significantly as Iâve been able to dedicate more time to practicing. Here are some examples of my original characters. Itâs all about practiceđđ»
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Here is a little doodle of my original character that I drew when I first encountered the game. She belongs to the Lin Kuei and is a childhood friend of the trio. I havenât decided on a name for her yet. While she doesnât possess any powers, sheâs highly skilled in combat and exudes a gentle yet occasionally serious aura. She enjoys sneaking out with Tomas to grab a bite at Madam Boâs. âš
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Hello, I loved your fiction. I hope there will be more to come:'))) The main thing I'm curious about is how you have a difficult job and still find time for your fiction. Doesn't your boyfriend or husband cause problems with this situation? Do you have a time loop that we don't know about?
Thank you! Yes, absolutely, the story will continue, and Iâm actually working on it right now. Entering university taught me the importance of time management. Personally, I found myself needing to start studying a month in advance just to prepare for exams. This habit spilled over into my work life as well. I rely on a detailed agenda where I jot down tasks and their durations to help me stay organized. Otherwise, itâs easy to feel overwhelmed by the chaos.
Since my high school years (about 11-12 years ago), writing has been a constant in my life. It serves as a form of therapy, offering an escape from the stresses of daily life. When Iâm engrossed in something I love, time seems to fly by unnoticed. In a relationship, I value the importance of my hobbies and appreciate when my partner respects them. However, balancing work, hobbies, and a relationship can be challenging at times. Currently single, I find it easier to dedicate time to my hobbies đ
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When can you update us with the next chapter of âA dance of Yin and Yangâ? I didnât expect myself to like that one so much as I thought it would be a mediocre, predictable enemies to lovers but the reader actually has a personality and inner conflict so Iâm surprised
Iâm glad to hear that you enjoyed the story so far! Iâll be honest, Iâm a little bit swayed by the current fic but Iâm currently working on the next chapter (but I must admit, itâs taking some time.) My chapters tend to be between 7k to 10k words long, and since English isnât my native language, it requires a bit more effort. Thank you for your patience đ„°
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Anyone listened to this song? So badass, damn! Especially that âGet Over Hereâ đ«
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In the Middle Of the Nightđ
-> Ao3 link is here.
-> Part One is here.
Pairings : Bi-Han/ Sub-Zero x You, Kuai Liang/ Scorpion x You, Tomas Vrbada/ Smoke x You
Authorâs Note: Hey there everyone! First of all, Iâm beyond excited by the interest youâve shown in my fic. Thank you so much! I poured all my love into this chapter, and Iâm incredibly proud of the result. This bad boy clocks in at over 10k words, so buckle up and enjoy the ride! Happy reading!
.
.
.
I summoned you, please come to me,
Donât bury thoughts that you really want.
I fill you up, drink from my cup,
Within me lies what you really want.
CHAPTER TWO : TOMAS
Tomas had always harbored a discomfort with darkness.
One vivid childhood memory was the time he and his twin sister sneaked out of the house to fish by the creek. They had visited this place with their mother many times before, surrounded by tall grasses and dense trees lining the riverbanks. In addition to fishing, they splashed in the stream as the spring weather warmed the water, engaging in playful water fights and skipping stones. However, they had not anticipated the difficulty of finding their way home after nightfall. Time seemed to slip away unnoticed until the sun vanished, leaving behind only faint orange rays. Amidst the sounds of creatures in the dark and the dim moonlight, Tomas found himself more frightened than ever. Seeking refuge beneath the shelter of a towering oak tree, he and his twin waited anxiously for the morning light without daring to blink.
Another poignant memory was his first night after being adopted by the Lin Kuei following the tragic loss of his parents. Given a room of his own within the clanâs compound, it marked a stark contrast to the cramped quarter he shared with his sister at homeâa small room with a cold-leaking window and a wooden floor that creaked with every step. Despite the spaciousness of his new accommodations, the room only served to accentuate his overwhelming sense of loneliness. Confusion, fear, and sorrow weighed heavily upon him, compounded by the haunting memories of his familyâs demise. The image of his motherâs final gaze, the sound of her voice uttering his name as she drew her last breath, remained painfully fresh in Tomasâs mind. Standing alone in the darkness, he hesitated to emerge from the refuge of his hidden position, fearing the harsh reality that awaited himâa reality that felt more like a terrible nightmare than the truth.
Later that same night, Kuai Liang, the son of the grandmaster, whom Tomas had only glimpsed out of the corner of his eye and estimated to be a few years older than himself, sought him out. Tomas never expected anyone to visit his room, especially someone whose language, lifestyle, and appearance were so foreign to him. Despite being a complete stranger, Kuai Liang persisted in his efforts to communicate with him.
Over the years, Tomas had learned to leave the past behind and devote himself to the Lin Kuei with unwavering respect and loyalty. He seized every opportunity for growth, not limiting himself to combat training alone. In addition to mastering multiple languages, he immersed himself in various fields of knowledge, receiving specialized education ranging from geography to mathematics. Inspired by his brothers, Tomas aspired to become a formidable assassin, striving to emulate their strength and steadfastness. His determination to bridge the gap and prove himself led him to seek training in magic from clan elders. Before long, he mastered the art of smoke magic, earning his code name in the process.
As time passed, Tomas emerged as one of Lin Kueiâs most skilled assassins, earning the respect and admiration of his peers. Though differences still lingered between him and his brothers, they no longer served as barriers; instead, they became markers of individual experiences and growth. Tomas gained renown for his stealth and speed during missions, aided by his mastery of the smoke magic for concealment. Yet, he also understood the value of leveraging shadows for support. Through discipline and practice, he learned to embrace the darkness, transforming his fear into a potent weapon.
Until Quan Chi sealed him and his brothers inside the bookâŠ
Tomas couldnât recall the last time he had been free. It must have been ages ago. While he had anticipated the relief of escaping, the reality proved disorienting. After spending so long confined within the bookâs pages, reentering the world was akin to landing on an alien planet. Colors seemed brighter, sensations felt unfamiliar, and even the taste of things seemed strange.
It had only been a day or two since they emerged from the bookâs depths. During that time, Tomas had been reluctant to close his eyes, fearing a return to the vast darkness that had engulfed him for so long. In the book, there was only emptinessâa void that left him disoriented and disconnected from time and reality. The experience had shattered his ability to cope with darkness; although it was bad to have a new master, he would prefer this situation to eternal darkness.
Inside the book, the only connection to the outside world was through sounds, which provided a vague sense of the passage of time. Now, sitting in the living room, an overwhelming surge of pent-up energy coursed through him. He longed to move, to run, to stretch his limbs freely. Yet, his heightened senses left him feeling overwhelmed by the outside world. It was as if everything had become too much to bear at once, triggering a cascade of emotions.
Such experiences were not uncommon when they remained dormant for extended periods. It took several days for them to readjust. Kuai Liang, in particular, struggled with the transition. His pyromancer abilities meant his metabolism was faster than both him and Bi-Hanâs, making the initial days a nightmare as he grappled with an accumulation of pent-up energy. Bi-Han fared better in comparison, his cryomancer abilities allowing him to maintain control despite the prolonged dormancy.
âAre you all right?â Tomas inquired, glancing at his brother who sat a little distance away. Drops of sweat glistened on Kuai Liangâs forehead, his face flushed. His usually dark hair, kept in a bun, was now disheveled, with tufts of hair glued to his skin due to sweat. Despite his typically bronze skin, it appeared pale under the strain of his condition, a deep frown creased his brow, accentuating the thick veins that bulged on his neck from the tension of his clenched jaw. He spoke in a muffled voice, his fists tightly gripping the cushion beneath him.
âItâs more intense compared to the previous ones. Itâs becoming increasingly difficult for me to cope.â Kuai Liang muttered, his voice strained.
âYou should lie down on the sofa,â Tomas suggested, rising from his seat and closing the distance between them in an instant. âStanding like this isnât good for you. Let me help.â
âIâm fine,â Kuai Liang insisted stubbornly, his words almost a hiss through clenched teeth. âItâll pass soon.â
âWe both know itâll take a few days,â Tomas reasoned gently. âCome on, lie down and stop being so stubborn. You need to rest.â
âIâve been inactive enough already from being trapped in that damn book.â
âAnd now you need to rest so your body can recover.â
âIs everything all right?â Your soft voice floated from the entrance of the room, drawing Tomasâs attention. You stood there in an old plush robe, your legs and feet bare beneath your long nightgown. The bandages he wrapped around your legs from the first night they emerged from the book still in place. Like him, your face was colorless, and the purple rings under your eyes betrayed the sleeplessness you shared with them.
âKuai Liang?â Bi-Hanâs sudden appearance next to you, like a dark, silent shadow, caused you to jump in place with a start. Tomas observed your startled reaction, your eyes reflecting fear at Bi-Hanâs sudden presence. Since they emerged from the book, they had noticed your agitated demeanor and your constant efforts to maintain a clear distance from them. It was evident in every gesture that you had yet to adapt to the situation and were still struggling to accept what was happening.
As Bi-Han approached them with purposeful strides, he rested his hand on his brotherâs forehead, from which a thin, cold smoke wafted. Upon contact, a sizzling sound filled the room as cold and heat met. Kuai Liangâs eyes closed with a slight sense of relief, his tense posture relaxing slightly. Bi-Hanâs expression remained stern.
âYouâre burning,â Bi-Han remarked, his dark gaze fixed on his brother. âHow long has he been like this?â
âFor about half an hour, he suddenly relapsed. When he insists on not restingââ
âNonsense. We both know youâre not going to get through this without lying down somewhere, Kuai Liang. Donât be stubborn and do as youâre told.â
âWhatâs going on?â You hesitantly approached them, your anxious eyes shifting between Kuai Liang, who was breathing rapidly and starting to sweat profusely, and the two brothers. âIs he ill?â
As Bi-Han gave you a piercing, stern look, you stumbled back a step. Tomas felt a surge of anger at his brotherâs harsh demeanor. Bi-Han had always been somewhat rude and obstinate; as the grandmaster before being trapped in the book, he was accustomed to looking down on others, being condescending, and considering everyone except the Lin Kuei as worthless. This attitude had persisted over the years, even when they served various masters of the book.
Many masters had attempted to break his demeanor and relished in the opportunity, but when they realized Bi-Han could not be tamed, both he and Kuai Liang were held accountable for his actions. That was when Bi-Han had to learn to control his sharp tongue and condescending gaze. But when it comes to you, you seem different from the masters who came and went. You were an ordinary person, with neither unusual strength nor fighting skills to suggest you knew how to protect yourself.
Tomas had scrutinized you closely the first day he emerged from the book and quickly formed a profile. Your physique seemed too delicate to be that of a warrior, and your gaze exuded kindness and compassion. The fact that you didnât assert any authority over them indicated you might be harmless. While he hesitated to fully embrace this belief, it often proved true when reality differed from their initial assumptions. This made Bi-Hanâs treatment of you seem inappropriate and cruel.
âKuai Liang is a pyromancer, master,â Tomas interjected, breaking the uncomfortable silence that had settled between them. âWhen heâs unable to release his power for an extended period, it accumulates inside him, causing sensory overload and physical strain.â
As Tomas explained in simpler terms, given your unfamiliarity with their world, another layer of concern clouded your expression.
âOh, I see. That sounds truly awful. Does the same situation apply to you?â
Bi-Han had been on the verge of making a rude remark once again, but Tomas acted swiftly to prevent him from further upsetting you. âNo, our powers and metabolic rates vary among us.â
âThen is there anything I can do for Kuai Liang? I have antipyretics and painkillers; perhaps they might help.â
âAre you daft, woman? Weâre dealing with a man whose metabolism is four times faster than normal. Do you think mere drugs will affect him?â
âI-I just wanted to help.â
âYouâd be of greater help by not interfering,â
The moment Bi-Han hurled the words at you with a tongue as sharp as a knife, Tomas watched you swallow silently and your eyes glistened with tears for a moment. His chest ached with a slight pain for you, whom he had never known; you stood so vulnerable and small in front of them. But you collected your composure quickly, surprising him, squaring your shoulders and lifting your head.
âHe can sleep in my bed until heâs better. Itâll be more comfortable than the couch. Can you move him there?â
***
After they carried Kuai Liang to your room and Bi-Han pulled a chair next to him, settling in, Tomas returned to the living room with you.
âHe hates me.â you muttered in a hoarse voice.
âHe hates everyone.â Tomas replied, realizing you were referring to Bi-Han. With a pillow tucked under one arm and a not-too-thick, pink-purple patterned blanket in the other, you prepared the makeshift bed on the couch.
With a sigh, you settled onto the end of the couch, which Kuai Liang had been using as a bed for the past few days. While he and Kuai Liang shared the living room, Bi-Han had taken refuge in your study. Your house was quite small, and Tomas had initially doubted whether they could all fit in here.
âIf I hadnât been protected by the book, he would have torn me in half already, wouldnât he?â
âIt canât be said that he gets along well with strangers,â Tomas replied politely. âHe needs time, master.â As the last word slipped from his lips in the usual manner, he observed your gentle expression falter, your lips pressing together into a straight line. He knew you disliked being addressed that way, but after years of habit, it was difficult for him to remove it from his vocabulary. His body ached with a twinge of pain for disobeying your request once againâa never-ending side effect of the curse. They had to obey their masters unconditionally, and if they did not, and this situation persisted, their suffering increased exponentially.
âTomas, please donât call me that. I am not your master, and it makes me very uncomfortable every time you address me as such.â
âIâm sorry,â Tomas murmured in a low voice, avoiding your gaze as he stared out at the nighttime landscape of tall buildings and colorful lights beyond the window. âItâs just a habit.â
âThereâs no need to apologize. I just want you to know that there are no distinct classes between us. We are equals.â You leaned back against the armrest, pulling your knees toward your stomach and wrapping your arms around yourself. âItâs very strange. I havenât slept a wink since yesterday, and yet I still donât feel like I can sleep.â
When Tomas turned his gaze back to you, he noticed your tired eyes staring into emptiness. He could imagine how surreal and overwhelming the unfolding events must have sounded from your perspective. Moreover, sharing your home with three unfamiliar, burly men, and constantly feeling on edge because of Bi-Han, must have added to your nerves.
âSo do I.â Tomas replied after a moment, joining you. âIâve been inside the book for so long that itâs hard to believe Iâm out now.â
âIf you donât mind, may I ask how long youâve been there?â
âWhat year is it?â He asked.
âTwo thousand twenty-four.â
âThen it has been nearly two years since we last emerged.â
Your eyes widened in horror at his response.
âTwo years? Thatâs terrible! What have you been doing all this time in the book? Is there any way you can pass the time?â
The question sounded so innocent to Tomasâs ears that he almost wanted to laugh. It was the first time he had encountered a master like youâa master who, despite having the power to use them as mere tools, condoned Bi-Hanâs rude behavior and tried to create a small comfort zone to help Kuai Liang through the process. Even though you knew the power you held over them, you chose not to exploit it fully. If you had wanted to, you could have expelled Bi-Han, and even him and Kuai Liang, from your home. After all, they had no choice but to obey your orders if they wished to avoid excruciating pain.
They hadnât revealed this detail to you yet, as it was too valuable and represented one of their greatest vulnerabilities. However, whether you were aware of this information or not didnât change the truth. By opening your home to them and engaging in conversation with Tomas, you were trying to understand the situation despite the risks involved. He doubted every now and then, as you seemed so sincere. You cannot act all the time, can you? As he was a professional in reading people, he couldnât be entirely sure about you.
âNo, we can only wait until our new master reads the words in the book,â Tomas explained.
âHow so?â Your eyes widened slightly. âCanât you do anything?â
âNo, except for waiting in the dark, we can only sometimes hear voices coming from outside the book. This helps us understand where we are, and sometimes even the year.â
âGod, this isâthis is so cruel⊠How have you been able to maintain your sanity until today? This is officially torture.â
He also pondered the answer to this question himself. If he had been sealed inside that book alone, Tomas doubted he would be capable of forming coherent sentences right now. It would be a miracle if he could even speak.
âMy brothers⊠Without them, it would have been inevitable that I would have lost my mind,â he admitted through clenched teeth. âBut sometimes even that is not enough. Thatâs why we pressured you to read the book when you found it.â
âI thought I was going to die of fear at that moment,â you confessed in a low voice, cheeks slightly flushed, as you turned away from him and focused on your clasped hands. âBut Iâm glad I made you get out of there after hearing what youâve told me. I hope I can help you break this curse as well.â
Tomas remained silent, grappling with uncertainty about the sincerity of your words. They had encountered similar displays of kindness before. In the past, there was a master they believed to be compassionate and well-intentioned, who had convinced them to lower their guards and give their trust a chance. They had fallen for gentle touches, pleas instead of commands, sweet compliments, and precious gifts. Even Bi-Han, typically skeptical, had thought that previous master was different.
But they were mistaken. They soon discovered that everything she did was merely a facade to gain their trust and manipulate them, raising their hopes only to shatter them. They had sworn never to trust again after that betrayal. As long as they were trapped in the book, they would always have a master, and their relationships would remain purely transactional.
Tomas had learned the hard way not to put faith in anyone. So your words held little weight for him. Each of them represented a month, and when they returned to the book three months later, you would be out of their lives. It seemed foolish to invest in a bond for something that would soon disappear.
ââTomas? Are you okay? Youâve become quiet,â you asked, noticing his distant expression.
Hearing your voice, Tomas snapped out of his thoughts and looked at you. âI have a lot on my mind. My thoughts are too loud,â he confessed with a tight smile.
âI have a solution that might help. Since neither of us has had any sleep,â you suggested, rising from your seat and making your way to the kitchen, which was adjacent to the living room. Tomas felt a twinge of curiosity as he watched you move. ââI hope you like chocolate.ââ
âWhat are you going to do?â
âHot chocolate. Sweet things are always good for stress. I think we both need some relaxation and serotonin,â you explained, retrieving two mugs from the kitchen cabinet and placing them on the counter. As you continued to prepare the hot chocolate, you asked, âDo you want to watch a movie?â
Tomas repeated the question as if to confirm that he had heard you correctly. âA movie?â
âYes,â you affirmed cheerfully, without glancing at him, as you arranged the ingredients on the counter. âI like to watch something on Netflix when I canât sleep. It helps distract my mind.â
âNetflix?â Tomas queried, unfamiliar with the term. As you briefly explained what Netflix was, Tomas observed you moving around the kitchen with a sweet smile, pouring steaming hot chocolate into the mugs and adorning them with white toppings resembling candy. He was familiar with the concept of movies, but his upbringing with the Lin Kuei left little room for leisure activities, such as watching television or electronic devices. Thus, while he understood the concept of movies, he had never encountered anything related to them until now.
âWe can watch something that wonât require too much thought,â you suggested as you placed the mugs on the coffee table in front of them. Retrieving your laptop from a nearby spot, you positioned it on your lap and adjusted the screen so that Tomas could see. âHere, you can browse the movies from here.â
Tomas curiously scanned through the films from various categories displayed on the screen. There were so many options that he found it difficult to decide which one to choose, unsure of what would be the right choice.
âHow about action?â you proposed, attempting to assist him. Your understanding expression conveyed that you recognized his struggle to make a choice. âWe could watch Johnny Cageâs movies. The Ninja Mime movie series is legendary! What do you think? If you donât like it, we can explore other options, of course.â
When Tomas agreed, your smile grew, and you placed the laptop in the center of the coffee table for both of you to see. As you leaned down to switch off the nearby lamp, he impulsively reached out and grabbed your wrist, causing a small, sweet electric sensation to pass between them. You both shared a momentary pause, as if sensing something peculiar, and Tomas noticed the sound of your interrupted breathing. What the hell was that? Tomas had never felt anything like this before.
âTomas? Is something wrong?â you asked, your concern evident in your voice.
Tomas tried to ignore the tender feeling as he quickly released your wrist, as if it had burned him. Despite facing numerous sorcerers and warriors without fear, you, with your delicate demeanor, seemed more fragile to him, easily susceptible to harm even without the protection of the book.
âCould the light stay on?â he requested hoarsely, instantly noticing the understanding in your eyes, realizing the underlying reason for his question.
âOf course. Is it alright if we share the seat until the movie ends? Thereâs no other way for me to see the screen.â
Tomas found it strange that you asked, considering it was your home. You didnât need his permission to use your own belongings.
âThis is already your couch.â Tomas replied, showing his confusion.
âYouâre also my guest. I want you to feel comfortable, not like youâre on edge,â you explained. Surprised by your response, Tomas nodded in agreement instead of verbally responding. âGreat! Then Iâll start the movie. Come on, start drinking the hot chocolate before it gets cold. Your marshmallows are about to melt.â
Following your instructions, Tomas picked up a yellowish-white ceramic mug with daisy and bee patterns and took a sip of the steaming, incredibly fragrant drink. The sweet liquid danced on his taste buds, flooding his mouth with an unparalleled delight. It had been an eternity since he had savored something so delicious and sweet, a rare treat that he hadnât experienced in years. Closing his eyes in bliss, he relished every moment of it.
âDo you like it?â
âI love it,â Tomas replied honestly.
âReally?â Your face lit up with a huge, almost radiant smile, and Tomas once again felt that sweet ache in his chest, far from painful. âIâm glad to hear that! If you want more, donât hesitate to tell me. I still have plenty of chocolates in the cupboard.â
After your words, when the movie started, Tomas watched you eagerly settle on the end of the seat and sip your hot chocolate out of the corner of his eye. Despite the seat not being too large, there was a noticeable distance between you; someone thinner could have squeezed in between with a little effort. Although Tomas still couldnât quite decipher your intentions, he turned his attention to the film after stealing a few glances at you, and slowly felt his troubled thoughts quiet down, his overly active senses beginning to relax.
Settling more comfortably on the couch, he took another sip of the hot chocolate you had made. He couldnât remember the last time someone had done something like this for him. Usually, the situation would be the oppositeâhe would serve someone, fulfilling their wishes and desires. Now, it felt strange and unfamiliar to him to drink the beverage you had offered without expecting anything in return, as if you would later chastise him for such naivety. However, that never happened. Instead, you were completely engrossed in the film, occasionally giggling at the jokes inaudibly. Your smile, perhaps even sweeter than the hot chocolate he was drinking, had a warmth that made one want to hear your voice again.
Despite being occasionally distracted by your voice, Tomas found himself unexpectedly enjoying the movie. The action scenes were realistic, the jokes humorous, and the flow of the film simple yet intriguing. During one of the fight scenes, Tomas mumbled, âHe fights well.â
âIsnât he? Heâs also a master of martial arts. All of these scenes were shot without the use of stunts. Thatâs why I have a lot of respect for the work he does. Heâs one of the few actors Iâd like to meet.â you remarked as you popped a half-melted marshmallow into your mouth, causing Tomas to watch your soft lips open and close on your fingers. He felt a warmth again, but this time it was burning and dangerous rather than sweet. He shifted in his seat as if trying to shake off the feeling.
âDo you want to watch the second one too?â you asked after finishing chewing. Tomas responded in a muffled voice. âI canât deny that Iâm interested.â
âWonderful! Iâll refresh our drinks then. Wait here, Iâll be right back.â
Tomas rose once more, feeling uneasy about being served by you again, as you asked nothing of him. As he approached, you were just about to open the milk lid when you looked up, meeting his gaze with inquisitive eyes.
âDid you want something?â
âTell me what I should do, please,â Tomas said through clenched teeth. How long would you leave him in this state of uncertainty, without giving him any orders? This unfamiliarity, persisting for days, was making him nervous. It was vastly different from the structured system he was accustomed to.
âI am not your master, Tomas,â you responded calmly, looking into his eyes, your voice gentle yet firm. âYou are your own person. I will not give you orders, neither now nor later.â
âThis is wrong,â Tomas said akin to a snarl, his voice sounding foreign even to himself. Even before an assassin, he was a hunter, and now, he felt more trapped than ever as he still couldnât grapple with your rules. Do you even have rules? âSomething is always expected.â
âThis situation doesnât apply here. I can see that you donât trust and believe in me, and I donât blame you for that,â you said, your face filled with a sadness Tomas couldnât comprehend, your gaze softening even further. âTomas, please try to believe that Iâm sincere in what Iâm saying. I do not demand anything from you, and I will not. You are free to act as you want, make your own decisions and choices.â
âWhy?â Tomas questioned.
Why were you being so kind?
âBecause itâs the right and humane thing to do,â you said simply, without hesitation. Then, you turned your attention to the task at hand. âNow, how many marshmallows do you want? I think I can put at least six on top.â
Did you realize the power you held in your hands? A word from you could compel action. But it seemed like you didnât even care about this power; instead, you focused on trivial details about the second movie you were going to watch.
Once you had assembled a small mountain of marshmallows on the mug and handed it to him, Tomas accepted it in silence and settled back into the seat with you to resume the movie. He felt oddly content in a way. Though part of him still awaited the unveiling of the mask he thought you wore, he found some solace in the simplicity and normalcy of the current situation. Even though he had forgotten what it felt like, experiencing it again now stirred a mix of emotions within him, difficult to define.
While watching the movie, it was your harmless chats that occasionally provided small pieces of information about the actor or the movie, though it usually remained one-sided. Tomas lost track of how many movies you watched that night, ceasing to count after the second film. As soft yellow lights appeared and the sky began to brighten, he realized that an entire night had passed watching movies. Stretching his muscles, which had stiffened from remaining in the same position for so long, he turned his neck from right to left. When he glanced back at you, he saw that you were quietly curled up in your corner, fast asleep.
You had your arms crossed over the armrest of the chair, using them as a makeshift pillow for your head. Your mouth was slightly ajar, and the gentle rise and fall of your chest indicated deep sleep. Bathed in the morning sunlight, a peaceful expression graced your face.Tomas felt relieved watching you, as if a weight had been lifted from his shoulders, akin to lying on a calm sea.
On one hand, he was surprised that you felt comfortable enough to sleep next to him. You likely couldnât resist the fatigue any longer and succumbed to it. Tomas couldnât help but notice how vulnerable you looked, despite not wanting to admit it. You appeared delicate enough to be easily hurt.
Careful not to disturb you, Tomas pulled a blanket up to your shoulders, ensuring you were completely covered. As he did so, Bi-Han appeared at the entrance of the living room, his expression as cold and discontented as ever.
âWhat do you think youâre doing?â Bi-Han demanded.
âYouâll wake her up,â Said Tomas, in a voice that sounded like a whisper, slightly scolding. Carefully getting up from where he was sitting, he made his way to his brotherâs side, his shoulders tense and his posture upright. He changed the subject directly, not allowing Bi-Han to scold him further. âHow is Kuai Liang?â
âItâs bad, but heâll pull through. Heâs unconscious right now; I donât think heâll wake up for a while.â
âItâs the first time Iâve seen him this bad.â
âWe stayed in the book for too long this time,â Bi-Han growled hoarsely, his voice tinged with wildness. Clenching his fists at his sides, his eyebrows furrowed deeply, and his gaze darkened. Tomas could feel the cold emanating from him, chilling his skin like a winter wind. âThis cramped place is suffocating me. Iâm going out to explore. Take care of Kuai Liang.â
As Bi-Han stormed out of the house without waiting for a reply, Tomas sighed and headed for the room where Kuai Liang was staying, ignoring his weary eyes due to insomnia. Opening the door slightly, he peered inside and saw his brother lying motionless on the bed. Stepping into the room and closing the door quitely behind him, Tomas prepared to tend to his brother.
Although he felt a twinge of guilt for intruding into your private space by entering your bedroom, Tomas didnât dwell on it much, knowing that you had opened this place up for their use like any other part of the house. After opening the window to let in some fresh air, Tomas couldnât resist looking around curiously. Your room, like the rest of the house, was small, with a closet and a standing mirror in one corner, and a bookcase filled to the brim with books and pictures scattered haphazardly on the shelves in another corner.
Approaching the bookcase, Tomas found some books filled with confusing information about computers and programming, which he couldnât quite comprehend. Was this your interest? After glancing at a few of them, his attention was drawn to the photos. Some were framed, while others were hung around the shelves with wicker ropes. The photos depicted people with wide, friendly smiles, along with various landscapes. In the photos, you appeared pleasant, happy, and cheerful, almost laughing in the eyes.
Tomas frowned slightly as he picked up a frame that caught his attention. He hadnât seen such an expression on your face since they came out of the book; instead, you seemed agitated, with traces of fear in your eyes. He wished he could see you with that same expression from the photos; laughing seemed to suit you, exuding a pure aura that inspired trust. Maybe you truly were like the person in the photos⊠maybeâ
Shaking his head, Tomas tried to dispel the thoughts and returned the frame to its place. He then sat on the chair pulled to the right side of the bed and looked at Kuai Liang. His brother looked worse than he had ever seen him beforeâhis bronze face even paler than the day before, sweat glistening on his skin, chest heaving with rapid breaths, and a contracted expression indicating distress.
Tomas changed the cloth on Kuai Liangâs forehead and listened to his audible breathing, occasionally wheezing softly. Though he wished he could offer his brother some relief, there was little they could do in such circumstances. Kuai Liang had to fight this battle alone and regain control. Tomas watched him for a long time, his hand resting on his chin as he became lost in thought.
It was the sounds emanating from the kitchen that snapped him out of his reverie. Thinking that Bi-Han might have returned, he left the room and found you sipping coffee while cooking something on the stove. When you noticed his presence, you turned around, raising the mug in your hand with a sincere smile as you greeted him.
âGood morning. Did you get any sleep?â
âNot really,â Tomas admitted.
The smile on your face faltered slightly. âHmm, so the movies didnât do the trick. Fortunately, I have more remedies up my sleeve. I bought some herbal teas and aromatherapy candles a while ago. We can give them a try tonight,â you suggested with a cheerful tone, taking another sip of your coffee. Before returning to your cooking, you asked curiously. âHow is your brother?â
âHeâs sleeping. Heâs not well, but heâs a strong and stubborn man. Iâm sure heâll recover soon,â Tomas replied.
âIâm glad to hear that. Bi-Han didnât want me to help, but I made some porridge for Kuai Liang. I hope he wonât be upset with me. Of course, if you think he will be, we can keep it between us. Eating can be difficult when youâre sick, so I thought some comfort food might help him,â you explained, gesturing to the pot on the stove. âIâve also prepared something for you. Have a seat. You drink coffee, right?â
Once again surprised by your thoughtfulness, Tomas couldnât tear his gaze away from you as you served him pancakes smothered with a generous amount of maple syrup, a plate of perfectly crisped bacon and eggs cooked to perfection, and a steaming mug of coffee, its aroma wafting through the air and tantalizing his senses.
âIs Bi-Han awake too? I saved some for him.â
âHe went out to explore. I donât think heâll be back before noon,â Tomas replied, still eyeing the food before him, unsure of where to start. Despite knowing he could eat without waiting for your command, it was difficult to break the years-long habit of awaiting orders. You must have noticed this detail, as you called out to him in a soft voice.
âYou should eat before it gets cold, Tomas. You may not enjoy it as much later,â you said gently.
Tomas, relieved, filled his fork with food and began to eat his breakfast with great pleasure, savoring each piece slowly as it settled warmly in his stomach. As he ate, he noticed you quietly watching him while sipping your coffee from the bench you leaned against.
âI hope I didnât burn the egg,â you remarked after a while. Tomas shook his head, indicating âNoâ since his mouth was full. After a sip of coffee, he managed to give a straight answer.
âEverything is quite delicious, masteâthank you.â he said, correcting himself at the last moment. A warm smile settled on your face, exposing your teeth, reminiscent of the photos he had seen. Despite your simple appearance in a loosely tied robe and a nightgown, you radiated natural beauty and warmth, filling Tomas with a sense of comfort he hadnât dared to believe.
âIâm glad to hear that,â you chirped like a bird. âBecause I almost burned it while I was taking care of the porridge. I kept breakfast simple since I wasnât sure what you liked.ââ While taking another sip of coffee, you sat down a little further away, collapsing into one of the chairs placed around the kitchen island. âThere is a local library very close to here. I have to stop by there for half an hour. There are some books I want to look at. Do you want to come with me? I think coming out after being in the book will make you feel better.â
Tomasâ body immediately contracted with tension, almost instinctively. He was curious about how much the outside world had changed, but on the one hand, he was not ready to encounter innovations, re-enter among people, noise, and much more. His senses were still at a hyper level, and that fidgety feeling swirling inside him had not calmed down yet.
âPerhaps some other time. Besides, I donât want to leave Kuai Liang alone like this,â Tomas replied.
âOh, youâre right. It was a rude question on my part,â you admitted, taking another sip of your coffee before looking at Tomas with curious yet deceptive eyes. Tomas met your gaze and asked after swallowing the food in his mouth, âYou want to ask something, am I right?â
âThereâs just one thing Iâm curious about. But I donât think itâs right to ask.â
One edge of Tomasâs lip curled upwards; he was starting to like the way you were approaching more and more. You were treating him like a human being rather than an object, and heâd forgotten how that made him feel.
ââYou can ask, itâs okay,ââ he encouraged.
ââYour hair⊠Is this your original color?ââ
An unexpected chuckle spilled from Tomasâ lips. It seemed funny and innocent enough to make his heart ache that you chose this when there were tons of questions you could ask.
ââNo, itâs that color because of the smoke magic. Its previous color was brown.ââ
ââSmoke magic? Do you have the power like the others?ââ
âYes.ââ
You took a breath with excitement; Tomas could have sworn your eyes were shining.
ââWill you show it to me?ââ
Tomas let go of the mug he was holding with another smirk that he couldnât stop, and thanks to the thin, gray cloud of smoke rising from his fingers, he made the mug float in the air. While your eyes opened wide, you took a sharp breath and stared at the floating mug in amazement, and Tomas took great pleasure in watching your reaction.
ââThis is incredible! What else can you do?ââ
ââI can be invisible.ââ
ââNo way!ââ You said it in an incredulous voice. Tomas raised an eyebrow, gave you a sarcastic look, and then made his body invisible, watching you keep your mouth open with amazement. Your reaction was so sweet that Tomas laughed out loud this time, and when he made his body visible again, you looked at him with big eyes for a few seconds as if he had grown out a second head.
ââThat was the coolest thing Iâve ever seen in my life. Youâre incredible!ââ Against your obvious compliment, Tomasâs heart misfired once again, and he felt his cheeks getting hot. Not knowing what to say, as you kept talking excitedly, he squeezed a big mouthful morsel in his mouth before saying something ridiculous. ââIt must be great to have such a talent. You can even go to North Korea without anyone hearing a sound.ââ
Tomas barely swallowed the morsel in his mouth and looked at you with a manner that showed he didnât understand why you could want such a thing.
ââWhy would you want to go there?ââ
ââOut of curiosity, of course.ââ After giving him a little look with your flushed cheeks, you cleared your throat with an artificial cough. ââThereâs something else Iâm curious about.ââ
ââAre you going to ask why I donât resemble my brothers in appearance?ââ
ââNo, actually, I was going to ask why Kuai Liang said âEarthrealmâ that night. The other one is a personal question; it wouldnât be right for me to ask you to explain.ââ
Even so, when you were talking to him like that, Tomas felt the need to explain to you. He decided to sit back in his chair and calmly tell you everything from the beginning, so that he could make you understand the world youâve fallen into a little better and make sense of it, maybe so that you could also start feeling safer around them. After all, you were going to be together for three months, and no one knew better than him how exhausting it was to be constantly on edge, both physically and mentally.
ââI am not their brother by blood; I am adopted,ââ Tomas said simply. ââBefore I became a part of Lin Kuei, I had my mother and twin sister; we were hunters. We made our living by selling the meat and fur of the animals we hunted, until one day we hunted in the wrong territory. There was an accident.ââ As Tomas slowly began to tell you about his life, he was surprised at how easily the words fell from his lips. Normally, he was a closed box to someone he didnât know; he wouldnât open his past easily, but something in you was preventing him from doing so.
ââI am so sorry for your loss.ââ It was impossible not to hear the sadness and sincerity in your voice; your gaze had an expression that showed that you were really sorry for his loss. One hand was hesitantly raised, then Tomas did not pull or push his hand away when you placed your hand on his hand, quite delicately, indicating that he could easily get out of your grip if he wanted to. Your touch defined you; it was warm and reassuring, and it also made him realize how much he really needed it.
ââThank you,ââ said Tomas, involuntarily. With his thumb, he gently stroked the top of your hand as a token of his gratitude. When he started to retell where he left off, you were listening to him with great attention. You didnât interrupt for once; your facial expression was lit up with a warm expression, sometimes sad, sometimes showing that you were proud of his achievements. After briefly mentioning his past, when he came to the question you asked, he actually mentioned that there is more than one world, the details of Lin Kueiâs purpose, creature from other worlds, and gods. While listening to what you were saying with great interest, Tomas was starting to enjoy watching your expression more and more.
"It turns out that I've been sleeping under a rock all this time.ââ You said, gasping in amazement. ââSo you're superheroes, are you?ââ
Tomas chuckled at your comparison.
ââIt was an overly generous comparison. It would be more accurate to say protector than superhero; we served under the orders of Lord Liu Kang to protect Earthrealm from external dangers.ââ
âLord Liu Kang⊠He was the one who was the Fire God, wasnât he?ââ
ââYes, thatâs him.ââ
ââI canât believe it, God, huh?â You were like a little girl sitting on the edge of a chair, warmed up with excitement, cheeks flushed as if you held a huge candy in your hand. ââNo wonder Bi-Han got mad at me when I accidentally branded you as blood lust murderers. After what you said, my own life suddenly seemed very⊠simple.ââ
Tomas reached for his now cold coffee, hiding his laughter. ââIâd like to hear it.ââ He said, trusting in the small, fragile bond established between you through the conversation.
ââWell, what Iâm going to tell you may not sound as cool as yours. I graduated from the software engineering department last year, I was working as a programmer at a game company until a few days ago, but I lost the job.ââ
ââIâm sorry to hear that.ââ Tomas said in a genuine voice. You shrugged your shoulders as if it were all right, but your face had fallen a little, revealing what was going through your mind.
ââDonât worry, I wasnât happy working there anyway, it was more about making money. Actually, my dream is to one day secure a partnership with one of the big companies by releasing my own game, but when you face the real world, you realize itâs not that simple. No one wants to partner with a novice; someone without a background. Plus, I havenât found any inspiration for my so-called game yet anyway.ââ
Leaning one hand on your chin, your face fell with a mix of unhappiness and a hint of pessimism. Tomas felt a strong need to console you and put a smile back on your face.
ââIt doesnât sound impossible.ââ He said with a smile. ââBesides, itâs their loss that theyâve lost a talented woman like you.ââ
Watching your cheeks flush with his compliment filled Tomas with pride and an irresistible desire for more. As you shyly murmured a small ââThank youââ, Tomas heard the front door open. While his body reflexively tensed, his muscles were ready and alert until he saw who was coming.
When Bi-Hanâs imposing body appeared at the entrance, you stood up, moving before him.
ââBi-Han! Welcome, we were having breakfast. Are you hungry? Iâve saved something for you too.ââ
ââIâm none of your concern.ââ Bi-Hanâs words cut yours short, and within seconds, the smile vanished from your face, shattering the warmth Tomas had worked to foster, and you retreated into your former guarded and distant demeanor. ââI remember I told you to take care of Kuai Liang.ââ
ââHis condition hasnât changed since you left, brother.ââ Tomas responded in kind, his words adding to the escalating tension between them. Sensing the growing unease, you delicately cleared your throat, subtly redirecting both their attention.
ââIâd better go to the library, as always you can use the things in the house as you like. Tomas, if you want to watch something on Netflix, please donât hesitate to use it.ââ With your head bowed, you left the room after finishing your words quietly, leaving Tomas and Bi-Han alone.
Tomas ended up near Bi-Han, taking a hard breath. ââWhy are you acting like this? Sheâs done nothing but help us so far.ââ
ââAnd did you believe it?ââ Bi-Hanâs voice was thick and authoritative, sounding incredibly deep. âYouâre still very naive, Tomas.ââ
ââIf you canât choose your words carefully, canât you at least pay a little more attention to your intonation? Youâre scaring her.ââ
ââAnd why should I care? As long as the book exists, there will always be a master, and that woman is no different from the others. You have to understand, Tomas, it would just be foolish to trust anyone but each other, especially when you have such tremendous power in your hands. Donât get your hopes up.ââ
Tomas wanted to oppose him, but unfortunately, although Bi-Han spoke with his usual brutality, he was right on one point; as long as the master-slave relationship existed, it carried a power that could easily deconstruct the delicate trust established despite everything. An order that would come out of oneâs lips was enough to take away their consent.
After Tomas stayed silent, Bi-Han approached him, his intense gaze lingering for a moment before shifting to the food simmering on the stove.
ââWhat is this?ââ Opening the lid curiously, he looked at what was inside. ââDid you do it?ââ
ââNo, she prepared the porridge so that Kuai Liang could eat comfortably.ââ
With his answer, one of the muscles in Bi-Hanâs jaw twitched.
ââI told her to not interfere.ââ
ââShe may not be the person we thought, Bi-Han.ââ Said Tomas, there was an opposition in his voice that he didnât understand where it was coming from. ââTell me, which master has prepared breakfast or something similar for us before?ââ
ââStop calling them masters!ââ Although Bi-Han turned to him angrily with furious eyes and stood in front of him as if he were a mountain of intimidation, Tomas did not allow him to intimidate him. He wanted him to hear what he was thinking.
ââIâm not saying we should trust her, but you know as well as I do that she hasnât done anything to deserve your cruel approach so far. She wants us to be comfortable in his house, she even gave Kuai Liang her bedroom, just to help him in the healing process. She tried to set us free the very first moment we came out of the book-ââ
ââThis is not the first time we have encountered this situation.ââ Bi-Han interjected once again. âAt some point, sheâll be compelled to give us orders. I wonder if youâll still defend her then.â
***
Itâs been a few hours since you returned from the library. Throughout your time there, you remained engrossed in the books you brought back, occasionally scribbling something in your notebook and muttering to yourself. Finally, Tomas approached, more curious about your activities than the movie he was watching. When you lifted your head from among the books at his approach, you asked, ââThe movie didnât catch your attention?ââ
ââFrankly, I was more interested in what you were doing. Youâve been sitting there for hours, doesnât your neck hurt?ââ
As you tested his words by moving your neck, a hint of pain crossed your face, accompanied by a soft whimper. ââOuch, you were right. My neck is terribly stiff.ââ
Offering to help, Tomas raised his hands in the air, gesturing to massage your neck. ââIf you want?ââ
ââIf itâs all right with you, please,ââ you responded, your voice a blend of shyness and gratitude. As Tomas took his place behind you and began massaging your shoulders and neck, he felt a strange electric current once again. Your skin felt soft and tender between his calloused fingers, and he couldnât help but notice the clean and beautiful scent emanating from you, enveloping him in a sweet warmth. Slowly, your stiffened body began to unravel and relax under his touch. Curious about your reading material, Tomas inquired, ââMay I ask what you are reading?â
ââIâm doing research. These books contain a ton of information about witchcraft, spells, and curses. I thought maybe there might be some useful information in it for your situation.ââ
ââHave you been looking at these for hours?ââ Tomas asked incredulously.
With a simple ââYes,ââ you innocently confirmed. As Tomas watched you turn another page, he felt a familiar ache in his heart. He hadnât realized how hungry he was for understanding and kindness. Every movement, every word, every soft look and smile you shared seemed to weave into Tomasâ soul, confirming his growing certainty that you were unlike anyone he had ever met before.
ââYou must be tired, thank you, Tomas, thatâs enough,ââ When you spoke from the book without raising your head, Tomas reluctantly withdrew his hands, even though he didnât want to. Touching you like this felt nice; it was a rare sensation to interact with another body of his own accord, free from orders. Moreover, it was confined to a simple touch without fulfilling desires, a sensation he had almost forgotten. It also made him feel powerful, as it was an action he took by his own decision, highlighting the profound impact of a simple gesture on him.
âMay I accompany you?â Tomas asked.
âOf course, you donât even need to ask. You can look at whatever you want, and if you want to have a drink, you know where they are,â you replied, smiling at him. Tomas opted to brew herbal tea for the both of them. He carefully poured the freshly boiled water into two mugs before selecting green tea bags to steep in each one. As he settled next to you, he glanced at what you had written.
âHave you found anything yet?â
âTo be honest, not really,â you admitted, reaching for the mug he offered. With a sigh, you glanced wearily over the open books. âSalt baths, incense, and natural stones have been mentioned, but these seem more for balancing energy. I havenât come across anything about how to deal with black magic yet.â
âDonât push yourself for our sake.â
âWhat? What do you mean?â You looked at him with furrowed eyebrows, a slight hint of frustration in your expression, urging him to explain.
âThe demon who cursed us, Quan Chi, is a master of black magic and is cruel as well. Youâre not the first person to promise to help us; Iâve seen this scenario before. I donât think the solution is found in these books, so you shouldnât burden yourself too much searching for answers you may not find. Our past attempts to break the curse only led to more suffering, it only led to disappointment and despair.â
Your eyebrows furrowed further in response, and though your expression darkened, your eyes betrayed a hurt that softened your features.
âI can understand why youâre hesitant to trust given your past experiences, and it infuriates me to think that others have exploited you in this way.ââ you asserted, your tone tinged with emotion. ââWhile the solution may not be found in these books, we wonât know unless we try, Tomas. I refuse to simply stand by and watch as time slips away and youâre forced back into that book. Our paths have crossed for some reason, and I will help you as much as my means allow. I understand that trusting again is daunting, even frightening, but Iâm asking you to give it a chance.â
âOnly a fool would hope,â Bi-Hanâs words from years ago echoed in Tomasâs mind. It was easier to believe that you were playing some kind of game than to trust. But, on the other hand, it was undeniable that there was a hint of truth in your words. If you had a different purpose, you wouldnât have gone to all this trouble or greeted Bi-Hanâs rude words with silence. Even though you knew the power you had over them, you were always careful about the words you used, afraid to abuse it and put them in a difficult situation. Tomas didnât want to make the same mistake again. He had been in that book for ten years and had seen and experienced a lot. He could navigate the familiar order, knowing the rules and what to expect. But this situation was different.
Maybe after a few days, you would change your mind and want to take advantage of this opportunity that fell into your lap. You might be overwhelmed while searching for a solution, realizing it wasnât a problem you had to solve, or you might grow tired of them invading your home. The possibilities were endless. Despite this, Tomas still didnât know what would be left of himself if he chose to trust again, only for it to end badly.
âTomas?â Your soft voice pulled him out of his thoughts, and he met your worried gaze. âAre you all right? If what I said made you feel uncomfortable, Iâm sorry.â
Your words, whispered gently, stirred the dilemma Tomas found himself in. It was too early for him to make a decision, as he didnât even know you properly. Yet, there was a part of him that wanted to believe in you. Despite all the challenges he had faced, you were the first master he wanted to give a chance to after all these years. But he avoided saying it, not wanting to give you the power to manipulate him. As much as he wanted to give you a chance, the part of him that longed to escape from this situation and the complex emotions you evoked in him was more dominant.
âIâm fine, itâs okay,â Tomas replied, brushing off your concern. âI want to take a look at this book.â
As Tomas changed the subject and reached for one of the books in front of him, you eyed him one more time then resumed your reading quietly, allowing him the space to process his thoughts.
A serene silence enveloped the room, punctuated only by the rain outside tapping against the window, the gentle rustling of paper, and the occasional exchange of words between you. Tomas found himself once again enveloped in the same sense of peace he had felt while watching the movie with you last night. It was a rare feeling, one that he hadnât experienced since being sealed within the bookâtime spent according to his own will, without orders or prohibitions.
As you sat back after having a snack and took a deep breath, Tomasâs attention was drawn to you like a magnet. Although he had been pretending to focus on the books in front of him, he found himself increasingly intrigued by observing you. Your facial expressions were as transparent as the pages of the books, and Tomas couldnât help but watch you intently, captivated by your every movement and expression.
âItâs getting late,â you remarked with a tired smile, stifling a yawn with the back of your hand. âAre you feeling sleepy yet?â
âNot really,â Tomas replied honestly, though the idea of closing his eyes lingered in the corner of his mind. Despite having spent close to two years inside the book and therefore doing nothing, he couldnât shake off the effects of insomnia. Trained to be a perfect assassin, he was accustomed to enduring extreme challenges beyond those faced by ordinary human. However, beneath the facade of strength and resilience, he was still human and had basic needs like everyone else. This included the need for sleep, a fundamental requirement that even his demanding training couldnât negate.
âWe could try lighting these candles, what do you think?â you suggested gently. âI also have another idea that might help, but we need to move to the couch for it.â
âIâm fine here, thank you,â Tomas replied, his voice betraying a hint of tension. You glanced at him, as if trying to discern what was bothering him, and placed a hand over his, giving it a gentle squeeze. Tomas felt his resistance waver at the contact, the part of him that craved connection stirring to life once again.
âLetâs give it a try, and if it doesnât work, I promise not to insist.â you said softly.
Tomas wanted to refuse your offer, but he couldnât resist your comforting smile and reassuring words any longer. âAlright,â With a sigh, he rose from his chair and settled into a corner of the couch, while you searched for candles in the room. As you lit a candle and placed it on the coffee table, dimming the other lights, Tomasâs body tensed instinctively.
âThe smell will spread soonâTomas?â Though he felt your weight settle into the seat beside him, Tomas couldnât bring himself to turn and look at you. His eyes scanned every dimly lit corner of the room, searching for the perfect escape route. His muscles were tense, rendering him immobile like a statue, and his breath seemed to freeze in his lungs, causing his chest to barely rise and fall. His hunter instincts stirred to life, hazy with the need to survive, to prevent shadows from drawing near him as if they harbored fatal threats. Memories of his days as a hunter flickered in his mind, images of tracking prey through dense forests and navigating treacherous terrain. It was a life defined by instinct and survival, skills honed through years of relentless pursuit. Even now, those instincts remained sharp, guiding his every move in this unfamiliar setting.
âTomas, whatâs wrong?â you asked, concern evident in your voice.
âItâs dark,â Tomas managed to utter, his voice barely above a whisper. âI donât like the darkness. It reminds me of the time I spent in the book.â
âOh, Iâm sorry, I completely forgot! Just wait here, Iâll take care of it right away.â you responded, moving to get up. But Tomas stopped you abruptly, his fingers closing around your wrist with an iron grip. Though his hold may have been too tight, he felt powerless to loosen it, trapped in the conflict between fight or flight. His muscles tensed like coiled springs, his focus hazy with panic, aggravated and feeling more vulnerable than ever his instincts screaming at him to do something.
âDonât go,â Tomas said, surprised at how foreign and commanding his own voice sounded. Though he intended it as a request, it came out more like an order. His voice was hoarse and strained, and he wasnât even sure if you could hear him clearly.
âOkay, okay, Iâm not going anywhere,â you assured him calmly, radiating a confidence that suggested you knew exactly what to do. âTomas, itâs okay. Look at me.â
Your words cut through his panicked mind like a knife, and though his body remained tense, he obeyed, attempting to slow his breathing and regain his focus.
âTomas,â you said softly, placing a hand on his cheek. He flinched at first, his body tensed more than before, ready to strike. If the circumstances had been different and he had seen you as a threat, he would have already broken your wrist because of this move. But you were no threat; your touch brought an unexpected sense of relief, like a balm to his frayed nerves. âCome on, turn your face to me. Itâs okay.â
Though your hand rested gently on his cheek, you exerted no pressure, leaving the choice entirely up to Tomas. Slowly, hesitantly, he turned his head to face you, meeting your warm smile.
âThatâs it, youâre safe. Theyâre just shadows. Thereâs no one here who can hurt you,â you reassured him, stroking his cheek gently. As he gazed into your soft, comforting eyes, Tomas felt the urge to fight slowly ebb away under your touch and gaze.
Along with your soothing words, Tomas allowed himself to be guided, feeling as though he were a stuffed rag doll after the sudden surge of adrenaline. His head came to rest on your legs, though he couldnât quite decipher how he had ended up in this position. His muscles felt heavy, as if he were underwater, and his senses dulled, making it difficult to perceive movements and even more so to choose your words. All he could do was inhale the subtle scent of chamomile emanating from the candle and focus on the sensation your fingers created on his skin.
âItâs okay⊠Tomas⊠You wonât get hurt again⊠Iâm here, Iâll keep you safeâŠâ you murmured softly. Tomas wanted to laugh at your words, which he could only catch in pieces. How could you shield them? You had no power or ability, yet, your expression of wanting to safeguard these men, twice your size and skilled in taking lives, stirred something within Tomas. Despite the lingering adrenaline, he felt a wave of calmness wash over him, like a gentle ray of light caressing him. He found himself leaning into your touch, seeking comfort in the gentle caress of your fingers against his hair. Truly, you were unlike anyone he had ever met before, and it would be unfair to pretend otherwise.
As you gently stroked his hair, Tomas felt his body grow heavier, his eyelids drooping halfway. Despite a wave of panic at feeling so powerless and vulnerable, your words reassured him.
âIâm here, and Iâll be here when you wake up. Donât worry, Tomas. Youâre safe. Youâre not in the book. Youâre here in my house, next to me. Can you feel my touch?â
As your fingers continued to run through his short hair, Tomas succumbed to the weight pressing down on him, feeling as though he were being completely submerged underwater. His body went lax, not even having the power to lift a finger. Every muscle seemed to surrender to the fatigue, and he found himself unable to muster the slightest resistance. With a gasp, his eyes closed, enveloping him in the darkness of his own exhaustion.
***
When the light hit Tomasâs face, he initially frowned and attempted to shield his eyes by turning his head to the side. However, as the light persisted, his eyebrows furrowed even more, and a displeased expression formed on his lips. In response, a sweet giggle reached his ears, prompting him to open his eyes quickly. There, he was met with your image, and for a moment, he simply stared at you like a fool. Your greeting, delivered in a calm and soft voice reminiscent of the morning sun, warmed him from within.
âGood morning,â you said with a kind smile. âDid you sleep well?â
Confusion clouded Tomasâs mind. Sleep? Did he really sleep last night? He remembered his body aching but couldnât recall falling asleep, his mind retracing the events of the previous night. The last thing he remembered was the delicate sensation of your fingers in his hair. Still resting his head on your lap, Tomasâs cheeks warmed as he managed a small âYes,â filled with disbelief. Your smile widened at his response.
âIâm glad to hear that,â you replied. With your hand still resting gently among his short silver hair, Tomas marveled at how natural the moment felt. Your presence brought him peace, as if you had always been there just waiting for him to find it, and there was something undeniably addictive about it. It was as though the chaos and uncertainty of his past had been momentarily suspended, replaced by a soothing tranquility he had longed for without even realizing it. In your company, the weight of his past seemed to lift, leaving behind a sense of clarity and hope that he hadnât felt in years. For the first time in a long while, Tomas allowed himself to simply be, basking in the warmth of your touch and the serenity of the moment.
âYou didnât sleep?â he asked.
âNo, I stayed awake because I was worried about you having another attack,â you confessed.
As Tomasâs cheeks flushed with shame, your unwavering concern only deepened the impact you had on him. Your words ignited within him a desire to shield and safeguard you. No one had ever approached him with such genuine kindness before. You were truly a kind-hearted and innocent person, evoking so many forgotten emotions within him. It was a feeling so unfamiliar and rare for him, he found himself instinctively wanting to protect you from any harm in that moment, unable to bear the thought of you suffering in any way. In his life, he had never felt this protective over someone in such a short amount of time. It was a fierce and raw instinct, almost primal in nature. Even he himself couldnât fully grasp or comprehend this feeling.
âThank you,â he said, lifting his head from your lap and reaching to touch your cheek. You smiled, leaning into his touch, and replied, âNo big deal.â As Tomas gently stroked your soft, dreamy skin, he felt an alien sensation he hadnât experienced in years. Could it be⊠happiness? The last time he had felt such pure joy was when he and his sister found a piece of glass they thought was a precious stone, believing it would improve their income. Looking at you now, he was transported back to that moment, reliving the feeling exactly.
His body rested and fit, and in the morning light illuminating the room, you looked more beautiful than ever in his eyes. Your presence felt like a remedy to his damaged body and mind, something he never expected but needed.
As he gently pulled you towards him, his touch so light that you could have easily slipped away, you didnât resist. Your lips were soft, your breath warm, and as your lips met his with a sweet sigh, Tomas felt the walls he had built to resist crumbling. The sensation of your lips against his sent an electrifying jolt through him, every touch igniting a warmth in his chest that seemed to spread to every corner of his being. Each moment of it felt like an eternity, every brush of your lips against his sending waves of longing coursing through him. The kiss was delicate and soft, each movement cautious yet filled with desire. Tomas feared disrupting the moment, afraid to harm you as he savored the intoxicating sweetness of your scent mingled with the warmth of the morning light against his back.
Perhaps it was a foolish move, one that would invite reproachful glances from his brothers, especially Bi-Han, but it was worth experiencing this feeling. He wanted to trustâthis moment, your words, you. It was a basic and burning need. Tomas had never fully believed in the promise that light comes after darkness, but in your presence, you made it seem believable, like there could be more. Your body nestled between his arms felt right, as if you were meant to be there, and he had finally found his way home. In that moment of kissing you, Tomas felt a sense of completeness wash over him.
He had never liked the dark, but with you by his side, it didnât seem so daunting to face it anymore.
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CANâT BELIEVE THIS!! OMG!! THIS IS SO CUTE đ«đâš
shang tsung drinks a botched potion recipe đŸ
(based on @chiqelatasblog's fic)
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why are u trying to pass ai art as ur own?
Hi! Well, I used references I found on the internet beacuse I canât draw from mind. I didnât know if theyâre made by AI or an artist since I didnât find any tags on them, but I assure you all of my art is created it from scratch. Here, I'll share with you step by step how I drew the Kung Lao artwork. I didn't have the rough sketch, but I do have the clean line art.
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In another universe, Liu Kang is mortal and biker.đ
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Hi guys, I need your help and opinion regarding my recent fic featuring Reader x Lin Kuei trio. I'm considering whether to start each chapter from one of the trio's points of view or to stick with the reader's point of view for every chapter. I'm feeling stuck and unable to start writing the next chapter because of this dilemma. đ« Any opinions on this matter would be greatly appreciated!đđ»
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Can I request imagine: Bi Han fell in love with Shang Tsung's daughter; unlike her father she is gentle and soft spoken and thanks to her father she mastered soul magic takes place when Shang Tsung captured Bi Han and Kuai Liang please?
Um⊠Well⊠This imagine turned into a whole one-shot. I'll try to shorten it in the future. I realized that I can't write short fic.đ„Č
Fates Intertwined âŸïž
-> Ao3 link is here.
Pairings : Bi-Han/ Sub - Zero x You
Tropes : Major Character Injury, Blood and Injury, Near Death Experiences, Fluff and Hurt/Comfort, Falling in Love, Strangers to Lovers, Protectiveness, Possessive Behavior, Alternate Universe - Canon Divergence , Intimacy
Summary : Bi-Han, gravely wounded during a mission, finds himself lost in the uncharted territory of Outworld. As he teeters on the brink of death, he awakens in an unfamiliar home. There a woman, a master of soul magic, emerges into his life, her presence calming and gentle as she tends to Bi-Han's injuries. Drawn to her unexpectedly, Bi-Han finds himself experiencing feelings he never had before.
However, little does he know, his savior harbors a secret...
Authorâs Note : This is the first request Iâve ever received, I didnât get any notifications about it so I found it on accident actually. Anyway Iâm kind of excited to share it, itâs over 8k (I got away with feelings.) Hope it lived up to expectations! đ
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He was on the brink of death.
Bi-Han felt the specter of death looming closer than ever before as he dragged his battered body through the uncharted terrain of Outworld. While he had faced dangerous situations in the past, none had brought him as precariously close to the brink as this one. With every step, he pressed a hand against his stomach, where a gaping wound on his right side oozed blood, a portion of it torn away. His vision dimmed gradually, like a flickering lamp nearing its end, his breathing ragged, his steps unsteady. Despite having accomplished his mission, he snarled with what little strength remained, enraged that his slight lapse in caution would cost him his life.
Each step grew more arduous, his coordination failing as darkness encroached upon his sight. Unable to discern what obstacles tripped him amidst the dimming landscape, he collapsed heavily onto the ground. The wound, incessantly bleeding with each convulsion of his body, sent tremors of agony coursing through him, threatening to shatter his teeth as he gritted them in pain.
Struggling to roll onto his side, Bi-Han expelled the soil that had invaded his mouth and smeared his lips, laboring to draw oxygen into his weakened lungs. Above, the sky darkened, with the moon and stars emerging while clouds gathered ominously, presaging the impending rain. It was a grim realization that in this barren, lifeless landscape, he would meet his end aloneâa consequence of his arrogance and overconfidence in his abilities. Dry and lifeless plants dotted the cracked earth, while rocks and pebbles stretched as far as the eye could see, with no sign of a river or any semblance of life.
Death had never been a fear for him, he was raised with the understanding that every moment could be his last. Memories raced through his mind like fragments of a shattered mirror; his training, the teachings of his clan, and the faces of those he had loved and lost along the way. Amidst the pain, a sense of regret gnawed at him, whispering of unfinished business and promises left unfulfilled. Yet, amidst the turmoil, a resolute determination surged within him, a steadfast refusal to succumb to the darkness that threatened to consume him. While the frustration and ambition of leaving his goals unfinished weighed heavily, he found a measure of peace in knowing that Kuai Liang would capably assume the mantle of grandmaster and safeguard the clan.
As he drew a deep breath, a fit of coughing wracked him, the bitter taste of blood filling his mouth. Turning his head to the side to avoid suffocation, he surrendered to a numbing sensation that dulled his senses from head to toe.
Finally, unable to stave off the encroaching darkness any longer, his eyes, barely able to remain open, fluttered closed.
ââââââââ
The first sensation that washed over him was a soothing warmth, cocooning him like a comforting embrace. Blinking open his eyes, Bi-Han found himself lying atop a soft surface, the faint scent of clean soap wafting around him. In the distance, he could hear a soft female voice humming a kind of melody, accompanied by the clinking of plates and dishes. Struggling to lift his heavy eyelids, he squinted at the wooden ceiling above him, its rough texture illuminated by the soft glow of candlelight casting dancing shadows across the room.
ââThe hell?ââ
His words emerged hoarsely from his parched throat. As he attempted to sit up, the covers slipped off, landing on his lap, and a sharp pain shot through his side where the wound lay. Clenching his hand over the bandages wrapped around his abdomen, he felt the fabric instead of his usual cold skin. The bandages appeared freshly changed, but his right side had already begun to bleed anew due to his carelessness.
With a muttered curse, Bi-Han glanced around the room, his body tensing as footsteps approached. Instinctively, he summoned an ice kunai into his hand, a simple gesture that now felt exhausting under the circumstances. Just as the figure drew near, he leveled the weapon with a silent threat.
ââI didnât go through all this trouble just for you to kill me,ââ admonished a soft female voice. ââBesides, Iâve just changed those bandages, and now Iâll have to do it all over again. Why are you still sitting? You need to lay down.ââ
Bi-Hanâs surprise was tinged with suspicion. Was this woman blind? How could she not have noticed the sharp kunai in his hand? Moreover, she appeared unarmed, leaving herself defenseless against him. His anger flared at the implication that he was underestimated. Even injured, he was still a lethal force to be reckoned with.
ââDo you intend to worsen the bleeding?ââ she continued calmly, stepping closer but maintaining a cautious distance. ââI am not a threat to you. My name is (y/n). I found you and brought you to my home for treatment. Youâve been here for three days. If I wanted to harm you, I wouldnât have bothered bringing you back from the brink.ââ
Bi-Hanâs gaze softened slightly as he absorbed her words. Despite his initial hostility, there was something about her demeanor that suggested genuine concern. Yet, he remained wary, his mind racing with questions and suspicions.
ââWhy?â growled Bi-Han through clenched teeth, his gaze sharp as he eyed the young woman standing before him.
The woman blinked in surprise at the question. âI donât understand.â
âWhy did you save me?â
âBecause you were dying,â she replied innocently, taking another step toward him. âNow, will you let go of what you have and let me help you?â
âI can take care of myself,â Bi-Han insisted, trying not to be swayed by the womanâs gentle aura as he moved to stand up, wary of her true intentions. The womanâs expression clouded with worry.
âI wouldnât do that if I were you.â
âDonât interfereâFuck.â Despite his attempt to rise, sharp pain lanced through Bi-Hanâs body, threatening to overwhelm him. Just as he felt himself faltering, a soft body caught him, careful to avoid his wound. A sweet scent enveloped himâcinnamon and vanillaâintoxicatingly sweet, like fresh-baked buns.
Relaxing involuntarily, Bi-Han allowed the woman to guide him back onto the bed, his resistance waning. She had a pointâif she wanted him dead, she wouldnât have gone to such lengths to keep him alive for three days, despite being a total stranger.
âI have to open the bandages and check your stitches. Iâm afraid they may have burst.â
âIâll take care of it myself,â Bi-Han retorted, refusing to show weakness or dependence.
âWhy wonât you let me help you?â The womanâs voice softened, her gentle demeanor tugging at something within Bi-Han. Though he remained silent, she sighed deeply. âI have a light touch and am quite fast, you can trust me. If I happen to hurt you, you can also treat your wounds. I just want to assist and ease your suffering, especially since youâre badly wounded. Oh and besides that, I made some stew. Iâm sure youâre hungry.â
Bi-Han scrutinized (y/n) for the first time since waking, assessing her body language and facial expressions. As an assassin, he rarely misjudged people. Despite his initial wariness, he sensed a purity and compassion within her that he couldnât ignore. The subtle tilt of her head and the warmth in her eyes felt genuine. Even though he couldnât fathom why she would go to such lengths to heal a dangerous person like him, knowing he could easily harm her without breaking a sweat, he found himself appreciating her compassion. Yet, alongside his gratitude, a twinge of annoyance gnawed at him, stemming from her apparent blindness to the danger he inherently posed.
With a resigned grunt, he relented, allowing her to tend to him as she saw fit, though a part of him remained on guard, ready to react at the slightest sign of threat.
ââââââââ
A week had passed since his return from the brink of death, and four days since he had awakened in your home. In that time, while his wound had begun to heal rapidly, his movements remained slow and restricted. Returning to his clan without a full recovery would only be self-torment, risking undoing the healing process with his own hands. And also, you were stubborn about it, showing no inclination to let him go until he was fully restored to health.
As absurd as the situation seemed to Bi-Han, it also warmed him in a way he hadnât anticipated. Despite his injuries, he was an assassin and the grandmaster of the Lin Kueiâcapable of neutralizing any threat that crossed his path. But you posed no threat; instead, you cared for him with remarkable dedication, as if welcoming a normal person into your home rather than a man with lethal abilities. Day by day, Bi-Han found himself lowering his guard against you, a sensation he struggled to control.
During the first night, while you slept, he scrutinized every corner of your house, finding no weapons or defenses. There was nothing you could have done to protect yourself from him. Trained from an early age to turn disadvantage into advantage, Bi-Han realized that this was not the case here. You harbored no ulterior motives; your only intention was to help him.
With the house being small and his movement limited by his wound, Bi-Han had ample time to observe and learn about you. Spending time together, he discovered your extraordinary ability to heal and revive him using soul magicâa gift passed down from your father. Bi-Han refrained from prying into your past, respecting the boundaries you set. He knew only what you chose to shareâthat your father was a merchant who often left for months at a time with his caravan.
Staring at his reflection in the bathroom mirror, barely able to fit two people, Bi-Han assessed his unkempt appearance. His normally well-kept hair hung loose, difficult to manage due to his injury, cascading down his neck to his chest. A scruffy beard obscured his chin, his pale skin accentuated by dark circles under his eyes. Running a hand through his hair, he muttered to himself, ââI need to shave⊠And I definitely need a damn shower.ââ
ââDid you say something?ââ Bi-Han looked at you inquisitively from the bathroom door, wondering how long you had been standing there watching him. Your cheeks flushed a sweet shade of red as you realized you had been caught. ââWell, the door was open, soâI thought, um⊠do you need something? I heard you talking to yourself,ââ you said, trying to regain your composure quickly.
ââI need to take a shower, and I also need to trim my beard. It itches.ââ
ââOh, sure. The towels are right there.ââ you replied, entering the room and retrieving the towels from the wooden closet under the sink. As you spoke, you kept busy, avoiding his gaze. ââItâs better if your wound doesnât get wet for a while longer. I can give you a cloth to wipe your body, and I can help with your hair. If you want, of course.ââ Though you added the last part hastily, your avoidance of his gaze didnât go unnoticed by Bi-Han, who couldnât help but smirk slightly.
It was evident from your demeanor that you held an interest in himâyour actions were transparent and sincere. What intrigued Bi-Han even more was that he also found himself drawn to you. For the first time in a long while, there was no need for him to be on guard, and your presence offered an unexpected reprieve from his usual responsibilities. You brought him more comfort than anyone had before, your dedication focused on helping rather than brute force, and you effortlessly dismantled the walls he had built around himself. It was a mystery to Bi-Han how you managed to achieve this in such a short time, but your presence had a calming effect on him.
ââDo whatever you want.ââ Bi-Han said, beginning to undress. Your eyes widened in alarm at his actions.
ââW-What are you doing?ââ
ââI will wipe my body as you said. Since youâre so helpful, maybe youâd like to assist me with that too?ââ Bi-Han lowered his voice, locking eyes with you as he took pleasure in the crimson blush that spread across your face. He didnât fully understand this newfound calmness and playful demeanor within himself, but he felt compelled to act this way around you. You werenât under his command or a threat to be eliminated; instead, you were the reason he was still alive. Though he was reluctant to admit it, he owed you his life.
Your response was stuttered and unclear as you hurriedly left the bathroom as if it were on fire. ââJust call out to me when youâre finished. And donât forget to wrap a towel around yourself,ââ you called out from behind the door.
Bi-Han carefully placed his clothes in a corner to keep them dry, then settled onto the edge of the bathtub, ensuring not to disturb his bandages. Using the cloth you provided, he began to cleanse the dirt and grime from his body, avoiding the area of his wound. Minutes later, when the water ran clear, he wrapped one of the towels around his waist and called out to you.
Opening the door cautiously, you peeked inside to confirm that he was following your instructions. Seeing him with the towel wrapped around his waist, you entered the room and closed the door behind you. âSit on the edge of the bathtub and lean your head back,â you instructed in a gentle tone. As Bi-Han complied, you adjusted the water temperature for a few seconds until it reached the desired level. Letting out a small murmur of approval, you turned your attention to him, holding a shower cap in your hand.
As your eyes met, your cheeks flushed once again, and you quickly averted your gaze to his hair. Clearing your throat with a small cough, you began to wet his hair, ensuring the water stayed away from his face. Bi-Han watched your every move with keen interest, finding pleasure in your innocence and sincerity.
âDoes the water feel too hot?â you asked, breaking the silence.
A small grunt escaped Bi-Hanâs lips. âIâm a cryomancer; water temperature doesnât bother me.â
âOh, right. I forgot. Itâs not every day I meet someone like you. I thought cryomancers were just a myth,â your fingers hesitating slightly as you untangled his hair. Emboldened by his lack of reaction, you continued to work, carefully removing the knots with practiced hands. âYour hair is very beautiful.â you said in a low, soft voice that could be considered shy.
âItâs just black,â Bi-Han replied.
âItâs not just black; itâs like onyx, especially when itâs wet. Iâve never seen such dark black hair before. It suits you.â As you determined that his hair was sufficiently wet, you picked up a shampoo that smelled of sugary flowers and squeezed a generous amount into your hand. âIâm sorry, this is all I have. I hope itâs not a problem.â you said, your voice tinged with apology.
ââItâs better than dirt,â Bi-Han remarked in a dry voice. Though he had no desire to smell like a flower garden, he also acknowledged that he didnât have a better option. As your fingers began to massage his scalp, Bi-Han was taken aback by how pleasant it felt. Your deft fingers worked circles on his scalp, lathering the shampoo, and Bi-Han found himself relaxing in waves of relief, melting like ice rapidly thawing. The warmth in the bathroom, the gentle touch⊠it was almost overwhelming, especially given how skilled your fingers were at their task.
âYou might want to close your eyes, I wouldnât want the shampoo to run into them by accident.â You said, breaking him out of the trance he hadnât even realized he had slipped into. Once again, Bi-Han was surprised at how low his guard was around you. He had stopped seeing you as a threat some time ago, but he couldnât comprehend how easily he let down the automatic defenses he had cultivated over many years.
Closing his eyes, Bi-Han waited for you to rinse the shampoo from his hair. After washing for a while, you reached for the towel in the corner to help him dry off.
âOkay, you can stand up, weâre done.â you announced.
Bi-Han stood up quickly, stretching his neck, which had grown stiff from being in the same position for so long, before turning his gaze to you. With your cheeks flushed from the warmth of the bathroom, your clothes splattered with water drops, and your skin glowing from the moisture, you appeared vulnerable and innocent enough to make his chest ache.
Raised in a clan of ruthless assassins where survival and flawless execution of death were paramount, Bi-Han had always imagined the woman who would enter his life as strong, tough, with sharp eyes and an authoritarian nature to adapt to his lifestyle. Yet, looking at you, he began to question this assumption for the first time. You possessed a nurturing side that defied brute force, completely opposite to his expectations, and Bi-Han found himself unexpectedly drawn to this contrast. You were good to him.
âBi-Han⊠Youâve been staring at me for a while. Is everything okay?â you asked.
âI want to kiss you.â Bi-Han blurted out suddenly. The words escaped his lips so spontaneously that he was as surprised as you were. Though he could have easily taken you in his arms and kissed you, he wanted your consent, to hear from your lips if you desired it as much as he did. You were the last person he wanted to intimidate or use force on.
As your eyes widened in astonishment, a loud âWhat?â escaped your lips.
ââYou heard me.â Bi-Han said sharply. Your cheeks flushed to the tips of your ears, the color he liked to see. Approving him in a soft, almost shy voice, your gaze drifted to the ground.
Finally hearing the answer he desired, Bi-Han growled and gently raised your head with his fingers grasping the tip of your chin. He connected his lips with yours, driven by a voracious appetite. This hunger was unlike anything he had ever experienced before, possessing a fiery intensity that shook him to his core. It wasnât until he kissed you that he realized the depth of his feelings; he could have kissed your lips, as soft and tender as rose petals, for hours, sating an inner thirst he hadnât known existed.
His hand traced the line of your jaw, capturing the back of your head and part of your neck. Placing his other hand on the curve of your waist, he gently squeezed the soft flesh, eliciting a small, breathless moan from your lips. Your voice, trembling like a whip of flame, ignited a dangerous fire within Bi-Han.
There was a unique taste to you, one that defined you completely. It was clean, like dewdrops forming on leaves in the morning spring, and wet as he slid his tongue between your parted lips. Another small moan escaped you as you placed your hands on his shoulders, your thumbs massaging the veins that began to appear on his neck. Bi-Han found himself hating the bathtub that stood as a barrier between them, longing to bridge the distance between you.
ââHold on tight.â He growled savagely, his lips pouring forth a mixture of desire and intensity. With your flushed cheeks, half-lidded eyes, and breathless look, you embodied a dangerous blend of innocence and allure, a presence that could emerge on the wettest of nights. As you tightened your grip on his shoulders in response to his command, Bi-Han effortlessly lifted you from the bathtub, as if you weighed nothing at all.
âBi-Han! Your woundââ you began, concern lacing your voice.
âIâm fine.â Bi-Han cut you off, dismissing any objections as he instructed you to wrap your legs around his waist. He captured your lips again, this time with a fierce hunger that left little room for gentleness. Despite his intentions to proceed slowly and remain in control, you made it nearly impossible with your presence alone. Your scent, your soft skin, your delicate movements â they all acted as an irresistible spell, unraveling Bi-Hanâs logic and common sense piece by piece.
Drops of water from his wet hair trailed down your cheek, then your neck, as Bi-Han followed their path with his tongue. He paused at the curve of your neck, grazing your skin with his teeth.
âYou donât even know how bad I want you. Now.â he declared in a voice thick with desire, his need palpable. Tilting his head slightly, he took your earlobe between his teeth, exerting just enough pressure to send a shiver down your spine. âCan I have you?â
You trembled in his arms, pressing your body against his, and buried your head in the curve of his neck, your voice barely above a whisper, the soft cadence of your affirmation barely audible against his skin.
âYes. Ah, toâto bed⊠Letâs go to bed.â you murmured, your voice filled with anticipation.
Responding to your command, Bi-Han carried you swiftly into the bedroom, stealing kisses and caressing your soft flesh which filled perfectly in his palms along the way. As he carefully placed you on the bed, he ensured not to overwhelm you with his weight. With one knee positioned between your legs and applying small pressure to your aching core, he felt your breath quicken, your legs parting slightly, inviting him closer.
âBi-Han, please⊠hurry,â you pleaded, your voice trembling with need. Despite not yet fully engaging in intimacy, you were already consumed by desire, your surrender evident in every trembling breath and pleading glance. Bi-Han found himself entranced by the unique blend of your naivety and charm, a combination both intoxicating and heady. It puzzled him how you could exude such innocence while also igniting a fire within him, a sensation he found both captivating and bewildering.
With every inhibition shattered, Bi-Hanâs entire being was consumed by you. His mind echoed with a commanding voice, declaring possession. âMine. You are mine.â With each beat of his heart, the intensity of his desire deepened, enveloping him in a whirlwind of need. His arousal surged with a newfound fervor, driving him to seek you with an urgency he had never known before. He longed to lose himself in your warmth, to leave an indelible mark on you, claiming you as his own in a way that no other could satisfy you again.
ââFuck. I wanted to take it slow,â Bi-Han cursed, his voice filled with frustration.
âAnother time,â you replied swiftly. âI want you, Bi-Han. I need you⊠just⊠please.â As your attempts to form coherent sentences faltered, you resorted to expressing your desires through your eyes, tears clung to your lashes, your need laid bare for him to see. Despite the flush that colored your face, neck, your chest peeking through your clothes, your timidity had been replaced by a raw, unbridled desire.
âAnother time.â Bi-Han echoed your words, his tone laced with determination. It was a promise, a vow to indulge in the intoxicating taste of you until every inch of your body bore his mark. The thought had transformed into a primal need, a longing to possess you completely.
With swift motions, Bi-Han stripped away your clothes, discarding them haphazardly. As predicted, your chest also completely flushed dark, your nipples hardening under his gaze, pleading for his touch.
âYou are such a sight⊠so beautiful,â Bi-Han murmured, his words tinged with reverence. You squirmed under his attention, somewhat embrassed by his words and attempted to cover yourself clumsily. As he untied the towel from his waist, he fixed you with a stern gaze. âDonât you dare hide anything from me. This is not a request.â
When his cold fingers made contact with the intimate area between your legs, you flinched at the sudden chill. Instead of recoiling, however, you parted your legs, wordlessly inviting him closer. Bi-Han found himself drawn to this decadent aspect of you, contrasting with your usual demeanor. You were slick with arousal, your warmth enveloping his cold touch until it reached a semblance of normalcy.
âNext time, I will explore you slowly, savoring every moment,â he declared, his voice brooking no argument.
And so he did.
ââââââââ
Another two weeks slipped by, each day marked by the steady healing of his wound and the gradual return of his strength. Strangely, Bi-Han found himself not minding the passing of time, a stark contrast from his usual restlessness. Even though his days were now filled with the singular purpose of recuperation, he couldnât bring himself to feel bored in your company.
You had established a routine of caring for him in the house. Every morning, after sharing breakfast together, you diligently tended to his wound, changing bandages with meticulous care. Despite his stature, Bi-Han appreciated the gentleness with which you handled him, as if afraid to cause him any discomfort.
Following this, Bi-Han would retreat outdoors to meditate or exercise, while you busied yourself with tending to the garden and other household chores. Occasionally, you would venture to the market, a task Bi-Han offered to take over multiple times, only to be politely declined by you each time. He sensed a trace of anxiety in your eyes whenever you left, as though fearing his departure in your absence.
The reality of his impending departure weighed heavily on Bi-Han. Though duty called him back to his clan and responsibilities, he couldnât bear the thought of leaving you behind. The bond between you had grown deeper with each passing day, surpassing even the connections he shared with his own brothers. You had a remarkable ability to understand him without words, a skill few others possessed.
In your presence, Bi-Han found himself rediscovering aspects of himself long buried beneath the facade of his assassin persona. With you, he experienced a sense of comfort and peace he hadnât known in years. Every touch, every embrace left him yearning for more, a relentless desire burning within him. He marveled at the intensity of his feelings for you, realizing that he wanted every part of you in a way he had never imagined possible.
His favorite time of the day was undoubtedly dinner. Sitting across from you, sharing simple conversations, witnessing your smile, hearing your laughter, and seeing your eyes light up brought him joy. It was a simplicity he hadnât experienced since becoming the grandmaster. Once disciplined, strict, and focused solely on responsibilities, he now found value in these moments, offering him a new perspective on life.
As both of you sat facing each other at dinner, Bi-Han decided it was time to address the lingering topic that had hung in the air for some time.
âYou mentioned you could remove my stitches in a few days, after that Iâll return to Earthrealm.â He stated firmly. Though he disliked seeing the smile on your face fade, you both knew he couldnât remain cocooned in this sanctuary forever.
âOh⊠So youâve decided on the day.â You responded, averting your gaze as you spoke. When you reached for your wine, Bi-Han gently grasped your hand, halting your movement.
âI want you to come with me.â he declared.
Your eyes widened with surprise. âTo your clan? Really?â
âYes, I want you to see where I live.â Bi-Han lifted your wrist, his touch still gentle as he grazed his index finger against your skin, all while maintaining unbroken eye contact. âI wasnât joking when I said you were mine.â
Your cheeks flushed slightly as a sweet laugh escaped your lips, a sound Bi-Han found irresistible. In that moment, he realized his attachment to you ran deeper than he had ever realized.
âYou know, Iâm not an item that you can take wherever you want.â
âI didnât mean it in that sense.â His gaze shifted to the dozen bruises on your neck, a satisfied curl tugging at the corner of his lip. Each mark filled him with a sense of ownership, igniting a fire within him every time he saw them.
âThen itâs only fair that I should say that you are also mine.â you countered. Despite your brave demeanor, your face betrayed your true feelings once again. As you took a sip from your glass, attempting to hide your expression, Bi-Han watched you silently, a smile playing on his lips, hidden only by his hand resting on his chin.
As Bi-Han grappled with the conflicting desires pulling at his heartstrings â duty to his clan and the burgeoning attachment to you â a storm of emotions raged within him. The weight of responsibility tugged relentlessly, reminding him of the obligations he bore as the leader of the clan. However, a shadow began to loom over his resolve, stirring a longing for something more.
âIâd love to,ââ you finally said after a moment. ââBut I have to wait for my fatherâs return; I donât know when he will come here.ââ
âYou can leave a note.â
âIâd rather talk it over with him face to face,â you insisted politely. âBut I can come to visit from time to time. If itâs convenient for you, of course, Iâd love to see where you grew up and spend time there.â
ââââââââ
It had been five months since Bi-Han returned to his clan, and everything was just as he had left it. Kuai Liang had managed the clan well in his absence, with the assistance of Tomas and Sektor, although Bi-Han knew his brother was downplaying his own contributions. Despite the slight age difference between them, Kuai Liang was more than capable of assuming the role of grandmaster.
There was considerable curiosity among the clan members about his prolonged absence and the circumstances surrounding it. Tomas, in particular, had been concerned for his well-being the most. During a briefing with the council members, consisting solely of his inner circle, Bi-Han provided a summary of what happened, including mentioning you and your remarkable abilities. The news of your impending visit piqued the interest of everyone present, even if they attempted to conceal it.
Although you could only visit twice in five months, you effortlessly bonded with his brothers. Even with Sektor and Cyrax, you made it easy to connect, your kind soul evident in your demeanor and smile. It felt as though you had always been a member of the clan, your presence comforting and familiar to everyone. During conversations, you repeatedly expressed feeling comfortable and safe around them. This, coupled with the unique way you contributed to Bi-Hanâs recovery, swiftly earned you the respect of the entire clan.
When you did visit, Bi-Han found solace and peace in holding you in his arms once more. In your absence, he had been on edge, constantly worrying about your well-being. Your presence felt like a breath of fresh air, infusing color and vibrancy into his otherwise monotonous existence. He couldnât pinpoint the exact moment he fell in love with you, but your influence had been undeniable from the moment he first laid eyes on you. The desire to keep you close, to protect you at all costs, consumed him, even though he knew the realities of their lives would make it challenging. Being separated from you had taken a toll on his nerves, leaving him irritable and restless. Amidst the tumultuous whirlwind of his thoughts, Bi-Han grappled with the overwhelming desire to see you again.
The last time you visited, you stayed for a while. One night, in particular, is etched clearly in Bi-Hanâs mind. A fierce wind howled outside, causing the windows to rattle, while snow fell rapidly, swirling in the storm and clinging to the glass surfaces. Except for the candles flickering in the room, there was no other light, casting a dim glow. The scent of both of you enveloped the room like a heavy blanket.
After bringing you to climax multiple times, your body glowed with vitality like a pearl, cheeks flushed dark with a serene smile adorning your face. Half of your body draped over him, your elegant fingers traced lazy circles on his bare chest, while Bi-Hanâs hand caressed the smooth skin of your back. In that moment, he felt complete, as if a part of him that he didnât even know was missing had been found. It was as if you were both separate individuals yet inexplicably intertwinedâeach completing the other.
When your fingers ceased their movement altogether, Bi-Han glanced down to see why, his heart swelling with warmth. You had drifted off to sleep, your face relaxed in slumber, lips slightly parted. You appeared so peaceful that Bi-Han couldnât bring himself to disturb you. This wasnât the first time you had fallen asleep beside him, and each time, he couldnât help but feel a sense of pride and a burning desire to protect you. He knew you trusted him enough to reveal your vulnerability in these moments.
His mind was more at ease than ever before. Even though he was in his own home, with you beside him, he felt a sense of belonging that he had never experienced before. Especially during the times he awaited your arrival, he had never felt such intense longing to see someone againâyour presence shaking his very core, pushing the limits of his endurance. He wasnât sure how much longer he could bear being without you; your absence felt like torment, while your presence transformed him into a different man altogether.
Although the notion of someone having such power over him would typically be unsettling, he couldnât view it negatively because it was you. What concerned him more was the possibility of others noticingâthe fear that his enemies might discover you, exploiting his vulnerability by hurtin you.
Two and a half months had passed since he last laid eyes on you, adding to the weight of the task Lord Liu Kang had bestowed upon him and his brothers. He longed to complete this mission swiftly and reunite with you, yearning for the calming embrace of your presence. The strain of constant vigilance was taking its toll on him, both mentally and physically, culminating in his recent capture alongside Kuai Liang.
Navigating the stone corridors of Ying Fortress, Bi-Han found himself flanked by a dozen soldiers, with Kuai Liang by his side and Shang Tsung and General Shao ahead of them. Shang Tsungâs words fell on deaf ears as Bi-Han contemplated his next move, steadfast in his refusal to entertain any offers from these unfamiliar men. His focus remained fixed on devising an escape plan to extricate himself from this predicament. As they traversed the corridor into a vast area, Bi-Han was confronted by a multitude of stone sculptures lining the space. Hindered by the restraints on his wrists, he scanned the area for any potential means of escape, exchanging a knowing glance with Kuai Liang, who mirrored his uncertainty.
âFather?â
Bi-Hanâs eyes widened at the sudden sound of a familiar, albeit unexpected, female voice behind them. Sensing Kuai Liangâs reaction, he knew it wasnât a trick of his imagination. With a swift turn, his heart raced as he watched the soldiers before him part, revealing your approach. What the hell were you doing here?
âWhatâs going on here â Bi-Han?â Your wide-eyed astonishment mirrored his own. As Bi-Han scanned you for any signs of harm, he moved to approach you. But before he could reach, a soldier struck him in the stomach with the tip of his weapon, causing him to stagger backward.
ââStop! What do you think youâre doing?!â Your voice, tinged with worry as you shoved the soldier aside, your anxious eyes locking with his. âBi-Han, are you all right?â
âWhat are you doing here?â Bi-Han growled out a whisper, tension taut in his voice.
âIâm asking you the same.â
âWhat is the meaning of this? Do you two know each other?â Shang Tsungâs voice sliced through the hushed talk, prompting Bi-Han to instinctively shield you, despite the restraints on his hands. Determined to protect you at all costs, Bi-Han urged you to take cover behind him, his voice laced with venom. âGet behind me.â he commanded, his grip tightening protectively around your arm.
âThere is no need. He is my father.â You revealed, catching Bi-Han off guard with the unexpected revelation. Stunned by the revelation, Bi-Han chastised himself for not piecing together the clues sooner. Living in Outworld, soul magic, an enigmatic father figureâit all suddenly made sense. Yet, your stark differences in character from your father only deepened Bi-Hanâs sense of disbelief.
âWhy are they prisoners?â you questioned, your gaze flickering between your father and the imposing figure of General Shao and the eerie aura that seemed to surround them.
âThey attacked us.â General Shao asserted, his voice gruff as he responded to your inquiry. âWe were about to take care of business before you came, sorceress.â Despite Shaoâs attempt to intimidate you with his imposing presence, Shang Tsung interjected before Bi-Han, shooting Shao a warning glance.
âThey attacked?â Your gaze flickered momentarily, silently questioning the situation. âWhy?â The unspoken question hung in the air, directed at Bi-Han. âIâm sure thereâs been a misunderstanding.â
âThey were sent here by Liu Kangâs order. To catch us and maybe kill us.â Shao divulged, his voice dripping with hostility.
âWhy so? Nobody has told me anything since I was brought here, and even now you still insist on not telling me. I want to know whatâs going on. Tell me the truth.â
âWalk with me,â Shang Tsung interjected, gesturing towards a secluded area. With a final, anxious glance towards Bi-Han, you complied, flanked by Shao and Shang Tsung. Bi-Hanâs instincts screamed to follow, but he was thwarted by the soldiersâ firm grip. Initially, Bi-Han braced himself for a sense of betrayal, believing that you had concealed Shang Tsungâs identity as your father. However, upon reflection, he realized that you had always been forthcoming with him, never hiding the truth about your father. Bi-Han had simply never asked. Your genuine reaction to the unfolding events affirmed your honesty. It became evident that Shang Tsung had dragged you into this situation without explanation. All that mattered now was escaping with you safely by his side.
ââYou seem quite invested in these men, (Y/n),ââ Shao remarked in a harsh tone, his words more of a probing question than a mere observation.
ââItâs none of your concern, General Shao.ââ You retorted firmly.
ââBut it is my concern,ââ interjected Shang Tsung, his tone authoritative. ââAs your father, I demand to know the nature of your association with the infamous grandmaster of the Lin Kuei.ââ
ââBefore you question me, father, perhaps you should first explain your activities over the past months. Then, and only then, will I consider divulging any information.ââ you countered. ââYou dragged me here without giving me an explanation, expecting blind trust. Itâs not fair, and you know it. Youâre exploiting my kindness, I deserve some answers.ââ
ââI was promised my true potential, and Iâm going to get that right back. Youâre my blood and flesh, I want nothing more than to secure you a good and wealthy future, I want what is best for youâfor us.ââ Shang Tsung continued to talk as he walked towards a dark-colored box that looked like some kind of chest. ââTake a look around, do you remember what I told you about this place?ââ
You watched him with hesitant eyes, then looked around you before answering his question.
ââYes, you said that Emperor Yingâs Dragon Army was here.ââ
ââVery true. What I told you was not just a fairy tale. These statues were constructed and enchanted by the great mages in the Emperorâs court.ââ Shang Tsung opened the lids of the box, took out a crown and a small green bottle, and emptied the contents of the bottle onto the crown. ââThey are animated by the fragments of souls. Once alive they fight tirelessly, unburdened by remorse or pity.ââ
ââWhat are you planning to do with these?ââ You said, your voice overflowing with obvious concern now.
ââIf they wonât be on our side,ââ Shang Tsung murmured with a half-smile, placing the crown on his head. ââThen I will eliminate them. This is what I had to do, for our future.ââ
The moment he finished his words, six of the soldiers standing a little further away stepped forward, and with mind control, moving nimbly despite being made of stone, they began to descend the steps towards them. Bi-Hanâs muscles tensed involuntarily, his body as taut as a drawn bowstring as he observed the approaching stone soldiers. If only he could get rid of these damn handcuffsâŠ
ââNo!â Your panicked scream echoed through the vast area as you summoned your magic, green energy crackling around your outstretched hand in an attempt to halt the advancing soldiers. When you realized your magic was ineffective against them, your attention swiftly shifted back to your father.
âFather, stop this!â Startled by your sudden movement and desperate cry, Shang turned his attention to you, momentarily caught off guard. Seizing the opportunity, you darted forward, delivering a powerful blow to his knee, causing him to buckle and kneel before you. With him immobilized for a moment, you snatched the crown from his head and placed it on your own. ââIâm sorry, father, but I cannot allow this.ââ
ââHave you lost your mind?!ââ While Shang Tsung was looking at you with stunned and greatly betrayed eyes, despite the distance, Bi-Han could see tears welling in your eyes. ââI am your father! My blood runs through your veins; your loyalty should lie with me.ââ
ââI know, and I am sorry,ââ you said, your voice trembling with emotion. ââBut I love him.ââ Both Shang Tsung and Bi-Han froze with surprise at your unexpected reveal, their expressions a mix of shock and disbelief. Your breath came out quickly, the air heavy with tension as a few tears escaped from your eyes, glimmering in the light. ââThatâs why I cannot stand by and watch you harm him.ââ
â(Y/n), behind you!â Kuai Liangâs urgent shout jolted you into action, narrowly dodging Shaoâs axe at the last moment. With Shao bearing down on you, Bi-Han could no longer stand idly by. Keeping you in his sight, he and his brother sprang into action, combating Shaoâs soldiers amidst the chaos, using the handcuff chains to choke one of the soldiers.
Despite your efforts to evade Shaoâs attacks and deflect them onto the stone statues, he effortlessly dispatched them with a few swings of his axe. You tried to keep up with him, but as a healer, your combat skills were lacking, evident in your reliance on the soldiers for protection as you dodged Shaoâs attacks. Bi-Han had heard stories about Shao in the past, tales of his power and mercilessness in battle. But now, witnessing Shaoâs sadistic enjoyment as he toyed with you, seeing the fear in your eyes, filled Bi-Han with fury and a desire to eliminate Shao.
ââDonât harm her!ââ Shang Tsung intervened, hurling a fireball towards Shao, catching him off guard and forcing him back. âShe is my daughter.â
Shao spat on the ground, unaffected by the smoke left behind by the fireball he countered with the tip of his huge axe. âAnd she betrayed us,â he growled. âYou just proclaimed that we would eliminate those who oppose us, sorcerer. Thatâs precisely what I intend to do.â
As Shao swung his axe again, you pushed the last remaining statue in front of you for protection. However, under the force of Shaoâs blow, the statue shattered, leaving a gaping wound from your shoulder to your rib cage. Crimson red blood splattered everywhere, your expression a mixture of pain and shock as you desperately tried to stay on your trembling legs. A pained groan escaped your lips as you stumbled backwards, Shao raising his axe for another strike, this time aiming for a fatal blow.
âNo!â While Bi-Han was blowing off the soldierâs head he had knocked down with his foot, bloody brain pieces flew everywhere, his heart was in his mouth. He couldnât bear to witness you lose your life before his eyes, with so little distance between you.
ââI told you to stay away from my daughter.ââ
In a stroke of luck, Shang Tsung once again caught Shao off guard with a barrage of fireballs, diverting his attention away from you at the last moment. Shao was thrown several meters away, gasping for breath, while Shang grasped you firmly, applying pressure to your wound. Your body tensed with pain, tears flowing freely from your eyes as you struggled to maintain a brave face.
ââYou will bandage this as soon as you get away from here. Do you understand?ââ
ââFather-ââ
ââDo you understand?ââ
ââYes.ââ
ââGood, Iâll buy you time,ââ Shang Tsung urged, motioning for you to leave. ââTake a few of the statues with you; theyâll provide protection until youâre out of here. Iâll find you once Iâve dealt with this.ââ
With tears streaming down your cheeks, you managed to press a small, wet kiss to your fatherâs cheek, gratitude evident in your pale, tired face.
ââIâll explain everything.ââ
ââLater. Go now,ââ he insisted.
Bi-Han brutally incapacitated the last soldier before reaching you in a few wide strides. Shangâs gaze fixed on him for the first time since his arrival, promising death with its intensity.
âYouâd better take care of my daughter, grandmaster. Otherwise, Iâll follow your soul to the Netherrealm,ââ warned Shang Tsung with a menacing tone.
ââI will protect her with my life.ââ Bi-Han asserted, though his agreement with his recent foe felt tenuous, the situation now imbued with personal stakes. Shang promptly removed the handcuffs from both him and his brotherâs wrists, freeing them.
ââGo on quickly. The others will be here soon, so hurry up. My daughter will take you a shortcut.ââ directed sorcerer.
As Shao charged toward them, Bi-Han scooped you up into his arms, finding relief in having you close again. With urgency, he ran alongside Kuai Liang, ascending the steps and leaving the area behind. With your remaining strength, you compelled a dozen soldiers to follow, your hand still applying pressure to the wound. Upon reaching the corridor they had passed earlier, you weakly tugged at Bi-Hanâs clothes to get his attention.
ââWe canât escape through the main exit, itâs too risky. Thereâs a passageway from behind the fortress leading towards the mountains; we can slip through unnoticed.ââ you suggested.
ââTomas is out, we canât leave him here.ââ His brother interjected.
ââExactly where, I can use one of these statues to find and contact him.ââ
ââHe is where the Soul Stealers are.ââ
With a deep breath, you closed your eyes and concentrated, sweat beading on your forehead as your skin paled. Despite the obvious pain, you maintained a resolute expression. As they reached a narrow area, your faint voice reached their ears.
ââI found Tomas. Iâm getting him out through a different exit; itâs too risky for him to come this way.ââ
ââOkay, weâre counting on you,ââ Bi-Han said, hoping to give you courage. You were so small and lifeless in his arms, though he couldnât bring himself to say it, his heart ached with painful sorrow as he looked at you. If it werenât for the faint rise and fall of your chest, he might have feared the worst; you were losing a lot of blood. The wound must have cut deeper than he thought. Bi-Han looked into his brotherâs eyes, whatever expression there was on his face, Kuai Liang stopped walking for a moment and squeezed his shoulder, looking at him with understanding eyes.
ââWe will save her, brother, donât worry. Sheâll be okay,ââ Kuai Liang reassured, and they proceeded to a small room at the end of the corridor. A statue opened the thick old door, revealing a landscape of snow-covered mountains.
ââââââââ
It was already dark when they met Tomas a little beyond the fortress, at the bottom of a frozen river. After you spent the rest of your strength to bring Tomas to them, you fell unconscious, Bi-Han had to hastily bandaged you because he knew he had to keep a distance between them and the fortress in case of getting caught. And when they decided to spend the night in a place that he believed was safe, he didnât let you leave his side for a moment, even though he was with his brothers and they were safe for now. Tomas had left a short while ago to hunt some mountain hares for food, while Kuai Liang went out to gather supplies to sustain the fire he had kindled.
Bi-Han carefully cleaned the wound with the materials he had and bandaged it tightly. Your bleeding was still going on, but it wasnât intense compared to the beginning, as long as you werenât moving, it could buy time until he could get you home. But you would definitely have needed stitches in your wound.
ââI can heal myself.ââ you muttered softly. Bi-Han didnât even realize he had said the last part aloud, too focused on gently stroking your pale cheek with one hand while carefully examining you.
ââHow do you feel?ââ
ââNot at my best, but Iâll be fine.ââ You weakly replied. Even if you wanted to reciprocate the gesture by lifting your hand, which was resting on your lap, it was quite difficult for you to do so. Bi-Han noticed this, grabbed your hand, and guided it to his cheek, allowing you to caress it. ââThank to gods, you look well. The others-ââ
ââWeâre all fine except you, donât worry. You almost died.ââ The last part poured from his lips with great hatred, it felt terrible even to say it. He hated the blood on his hands even more. Seeing you in such a state filled Bi-Han with a profound sense of helplessness. He feared the worst, and it was the most intense fear he had ever experienced. Even now, it lingered in his mouth like a bad taste, causing a churning sensation in his stomach. His entire body felt ice-cold with stress, his instincts had gone into hyperawareness.
ââIt just grazed, it doesnât even hurt. I swear.ââ
"If it had cut deeper, you could have lost your arm as well as your life. It does not suit you to lie, (y/n). I still don't understand how you could be Shang Tsung's daughter."
ââAre you angry?ââ As your voice quivered with uncertainty, Bi-Han tenderly placed a kiss on the top of your head, offering silent reassurance before you found the courage to speak again. ââItâs just⊠My father is a difficult man and kind of has a bad reputation. People are ready to attack him given the chance. I didnât mean to hide it from you; I was just afraid youâd leave me once you knew the truth. I couldnât bear the thought of losing you.â
ââYou think a sorcerer can intimidate me?â A small smile appeared on his lips as he continued to caress your cheek. After hearing your confession, he wanted nothing more than to reassure you and dismiss your fear. âIâm just confused and angry with myself for not seeing the signs earlier,â he said honestly. âI almost lost you, and besides that, nothing else matters.â While he continued to stroke your cheek with one hand, he didnât break eye contact with you for a moment. He needed you to know that he was sincere in what he was about to say. âToday has been an important day for me to realize some things.â
Thanks to the heat emitted by the camp flame, he could easily discern your facial features. Despite the weariness evident in your eyes, there was a twinkle that betrayed your curiosity about what he had to say. Leaning in a little more, he shifted his body closer to yours, positioning you between his legs as he sat leaning against a tree. With a gentle touch, he lowered his hand from your cheek to your chin, lifting it slightly to plant a small, tender kiss on your lips.
With his cold breath mingling with your warmth, he whispered softly, âI love you.â
Caught off guard, you gazed up at him with wide, teary eyes, a breath catching in your throat. As a tear traced a soft path down your cheek, Bi-Han gently caught it with the tip of his finger, his own eyes filled with concern. Then, with the warmest and most sincere smile he had ever seen, you planted a kiss on his cheek.
ââIâve dreamed of this a few times, but I never thought you would express it.ââ
ââIs that why youâre crying? If youâre hiding the truth about your shoulder causing pain-ââ
ââIâm crying with happiness, my love. Now give me one more kiss so that I can believe in you better.ââ
Bi-Han couldnât help the smile settling on his face.
ââAs you wish.ââ
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In the Middle of the Nightđ
-> Ao3 link is here.
-> Part Two is here.
Pairings : Bi-Han/ Sub-Zero x You, Kuai Liang/ Scorpion x You, Tomas Vrbada/ Smoke x You
Tropes : Slavery, Past Sexual Abuse, Canon-Typical Violance, Emotional Hurt Comfort, Strangers to Lovers, True Love, Foursome, F/M/M/M, Dark Magic, Eventual Smut
Summary : After a mission gone wrong, Bi-Han, Kuai Liang, and Tomas find themselves sealed inside a book as love slaves. Whoever discovers the book and utters the incantations within will not only become its owner but also the master of the Lin Kueiâs three deadliest assassins.
For you, grappling with the weight of a solitary life and enduring a particularly rough day, stumbling upon this mysterious book was an unforeseen twist. As you bring the book home, unaware of its contents or the events that led to its creation, the ensuing chain of events will shatter the tranquility of your world, forever altering the course of your life.
Title and work inspired by the âElley Duhe-Middle Of The Nightâ song
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CHAPTER ONE : (READER)
You were enduring one of the worst days of your life.
Your alarm didnât sound in the morning because you were too fatigued to remember to charge your phone the night before. With its poor battery life, it ran out quickly. Living forty-five minutes away from the city center, you should have caught the subway at least an hour ago to make it to work on time. Despite the pressing need for money, uncertainty loomed as you grappled with the inevitability of firing. The job, despite its dreadful conditions and an insufferable boss, stood as your best opportunity in months - too valuable to risk losing.
Although you had graduated from college with a commendable degree, the job market proved bleaker than anticipated. Your once-bright dreams faded as the harsh reality of post-graduation life set in. Most desirable positions demanded experience, yet securing experience required entry into these very positions. While a diploma opened a few doors, the conditions were often as harsh as modern-day servitude, albeit with insurance and a predictable late salary.
Your current role as a programmer at a gaming company offered no respite. Long hours in front of the screen left your eyes bloodshot, encircled by dark rings, and your neck perpetually aching. Despite the hardships, a promise to your distant family fueled your determination to stand on your own. Abandoning everything and returning home was not an option after coming this far. You had shed too many tears to surrender now, enduring the suffocating loneliness of solitary dinners in your cramped kitchen as you pursued your dreams.
Thus, with a reminder of your purpose, you hurriedly left your apartment. Despite the packed subway and the frenzied rush, you managed to trim your commute from fifteen minutes to a mere seven and a half. Yet, upon arrival, your efforts were futile. Summoned to your bossâs office, you were promptly instructed to collect your belongings and leave the company, denied even the opportunity to provide an explanation.
You were keenly aware of the disdain your boss and coworkers held for you; it was an open secret. They resembled vultures, poised to oust you at any moment. As the lone rookie, you were perceived as nothing more than a liability. Despite your efforts to avoid seeking their assistance by tackling most tasks independently, being in your first year of the profession meant there were occasions when you needed guidance or support. Yet, camaraderie was a foreign concept in this office. Compared to other workplaces, the only semblance of unity stemmed from shared breaks and lunches.
A part of you felt relief at the prospect of bidding farewell to a workplace where you found no joy. However, the dominant part, fueled by anxiety, fretted over how you would cover rent and expenses. Although you had a modest emergency fund tucked away, it would only sustain you for about a month. Urgency gnawed at you as you roamed the streets with a cardboard box containing your few office belongings, scouring for job advertisements. Picky was a luxury you couldnât afford; you were prepared to take on any role, even as a barista or waitress, until you secured a position closer to your aspirations. Survival necessitated prioritizing money above all else.
As the day wore on, you lost track of time. With the setting sun casting a dim glow and street lamps flickering to life, tiny raindrops began to graze your cheeks and nose, soon escalating into a downpour. Despite the onslaught, you mustered the strength to suppress the curses threatening to spill forth. Rushing back to the subway, you braved the rain without an umbrella or proper clothes, mindful of the looming threat of illness. With no funds to spare for hospital bills or medication, resuming your job hunt from the shelter of your laptop seemed the safer option.
Arriving at the subway, drenched from head to toe, you collapsed onto the nearest available seat, your legs barely able to support you. With a heavy sigh, you closed your eyes, feeling the weight of the dayâs exhaustion bearing down on your body. The simple act of sitting down was a luxury, a stark reminder of just how fatigued and stressed you had become over the course of the day. You rubbed your weary legs in an attempt to generate some warmth, soothing the cramps and chasing away the chill brought on by the rain.
As the subway doors slid open with a ding, a wave of commuters flooded in, filling the once-empty seats around you. Seizing the opportunity to rest your eyes until reaching home, you leaned back against the seat with the cardboard box resting on your lap. Tired, cold, and hungry, the numbing effect of the rain provided a brief respite from the stress, deserving of a well-earned nap.
When the ache in your neck became unbearable, you reluctantly opened your eyes, realizing that your stop was approaching. Glancing down, you noticed a book lying on the seat beside you, as your grip on the box was dangerously close to slipping from your grasp. Picking it up, you scanned the faces around you, expecting someone to claim the book or acknowledge its presence, but no one seemed to react. Confirmation dawned upon you, the book had been left behind, seemingly forgotten by its owner.
Although the book appeared hefty, its weathered cover hinted at years of use and handling. Despite its age, it felt surprisingly light in your hands, its once vibrant hues faded to muted tones. Adorned with a pale gold cover devoid of any text on the back, the book bore the scars of countless readings and journeys. Turning the book over to avoid catching your tired reflection on its worn and shiny surface, your lips parted in mild surprise. Three striking male figures graced the cover, their details rendered with such realism that they almost seemed tangible, despite the signs of wear and tear. Your finger traced over the hyper-realistic features with impulsive curiosity, only to retract abruptly as if scalded, suddenly aware of your surroundings.
As a sweet ache pulsed between your thighs, you found yourself unexpectedly aroused by a mere image, prompting you to shift uncomfortably in an attempt to quell the throbbing sensation. It had been quite a while since you last shared intimate moments with someone, but even that didnât entirely account for the sudden surge of desire sparked by a simple picture. Stirring memories long buried within you, igniting a hunger you hadn't realized existed until now.
A blush warmed your cheeks as you examined the figures once more. The trio bore the semblance of warriors or assassins, albeit clad in scant attire. The man on the left possessed a sun-kissed tan, his muscular frame adorned with a large scorpion tattoo on his left arm. His black hair was artfully swept across his face, his golden mask veiling a stern gaze as he brandished a flaming kunai, its rope end poised for action.
Your attention shifted to the figure at the center, whose face remained partially obscured by a silvery black mask. Despite the concealment, a strange sense of familiarity emanated from his features, mirroring those of his companion. His complexion was pale, revealing blue-green veins beneath the surface, while his dark eyes emanated cold, dominating arrogance. Black hair, tied in a low bun with a few tufts escaping to frame his strong features. Massive biceps framed his imposing stature as he wielded a sword of ice, poised to strike with lethal precision.
In stark contrast, the figure on the right differed greatly from his counterparts. Towering slightly above them, he bore little resemblance to an Asian individual, exuding a distinctly European air. His skin was also light, and he wore a grey-colored mask covering half of his face. A thin, light grey smoke emanated from his body. His short gray hair and softer gray-blue eyes lent him a gentler appearance, juxtaposed by the lethal aura exuded by the carambite adorning his finger. Despite his softer features, his lethal prowess was undeniable.
As you scrutinized the cover, a perplexing question lingered: why would the illustrator depict warriors in such a manner if not for a romantic context? Their barely dressed and provocative poses hinted at a fantasy narrative, reinforced only by the presence of their weapons. Without them, the figures might have appeared more akin to love slaves than skilled warriors. âAn intriguing choice,â you murmured to yourself, pondering the illustratorâs intentions behind such a depiction.
As you opened the book to look at the chipped pages, curiosity piqued about the contents within, you suddenly realized that your stop had arrived. Hastily tucking the book into your box, you sprang to your feet with a muttered exclamation.
âOh, shoot!â With a swift maneuver, you barely managed to slip through the closing doors of the crowded subway. Amidst the post-work rush, the mingled scents of sweat and cigarettes engulfed you as you navigated through the throng. Minutes later, emerging from the subway, you drew a deep breath, filling your lungs with the scent of rain-soaked earth.
Your journey to home passed in a blur, your body moving on autopilot along familiar streets and corners. Before you knew it, you stood before your fifth-floor apartment, a small abode consisting of two rooms and an American kitchen. Its most prized feature was the balcony, a sanctuary where you relished summer evenings, savoring the view with a glass of wine by candlelight.
When you arrived home, it was already nine oâclock in the evening. Leaving the box in your hand at the entrance of the door, you went straight into the shower to wash away the fatigue and grime of the day, and to replenish the warmth your drenched body had lost. You lingered under the hot water until it thoroughly enveloped your body, and finally, when the steam filled the small bathroom and you felt like you might faint from the heat, you emerged, clad in your well-worn and hardened bathrobe, with a towel wrapped around your head.
Pouring the last remnants of the red wine you opened days ago into a glass, you placed it in the microwave to heat up the leftover Chinese food you ordered a day ago. As you waited for your meal to warm, your gaze wandered to the box in the corner, reigniting your curiosity about the mysterious book. Crossing the room in a few strides, you retrieved the book and placed it on the kitchen island, settling into your chair with wine and warmed food. âIâll worry about unemployment later,â you declared, raising your glass in a toast. âToday was stressful enough, and I definitely deserve this wine.â With a sip of wine and a mouthful of noodles, you flipped open the bookâs cover with your free hand, eager to have a look at what it held.
ââWhatâŠ?â You stared at the glossy golden pages, brows furrowed in confusion, surprised to find them empty. âWhat kind of book is this? I donât understand the purpose.â you muttered in disbelief. The worn-out appearance of the book added to your confusion, making you question whether something had happened before it was finished.
As you reached the middle of the book, a shocking revelation left you speechless. Lines, equivalent to about a paragraph, materialized on the previously blank pages before your eyes, causing your entire body to freeze in shock. Tremors coursed through you, as if jolted by electricity, and you grasped desperately for reality, unsure if what you were witnessing was a dream. Gasping for breath, you struggled to comprehend the surreal sight before you.
âI havenât even had that much wineâI just took a sip.â you mumbled, your voice strained with the effort to contain your rising panic. âIâve seen enough movies to know where this is going. Iâm not reading whateverâs written here,â you declared, the thin timbre of your voice betraying your attempt to stifle a scream.
You closed the cover of the book hard and attempted to get up from your chair, but found yourself unable to move. It was as if an unseen force held you in place. The cover of the book opened again, and as the pages flickered before your eyes, the one you had just turned to was laid out in front of you once more, sending shivers of fear down your spine.
âRead it,â a demanding male voice echoed in your mind, freezing you in terror. Despite your frantic desire to flee, you remained immobilized, unable to move a muscle.
âI-I was just curious about what it says. I didnât mean any harm,â you pleaded weakly, few tears streaming down your cheeks due to the immense fear you felt at the moment. Another voice, speaking in a foreign tongue filled the air, his tone scolding but directed elsewhere, not at you.
âWe wonât harm you, master,â another voice reassured, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the fear.
âSay the words aloud, and we will serve you,â urged yet another voice, prompting a realization of the three distinct voices corresponding to the figures depicted on the bookâs cover.
âW-What theâŠ! Are theyâŠâ
âYes, thatâs us you see on the cover. Weâve been trapped in this book for a long time. You have to say the words to get us out of here,â one of the voices explained.
âYouâre talking as if I had a choice,â you replied in a timid, low voice.
âRead the words, woman,â another voice commanded. It was the coldest and harshest of them all. Despite lacking a physical form, his dominant aura was unmistakable in the way he emphasized his words. His voice resonated with a deep, chilling tone, unlike anything you had ever heard before. You attempted to steady yourself, swallowing hard and clenching your trembling hands into fists on your legs.
âHow do I know you wonât hurt me? Each of you had a weapon on the cover; itâs clear youâre some kind of warriors.â
âWe are bound to the master of the book,â another voice interjected, his tone notably more welcoming and kind than the others. âWe cannot harm you.â
âGod, I must be losing my mind. Iâm talking to a book,â you muttered, glancing at the pages with audible trepidation. Fear and panic constricted your throat, rendering you speechless.
âThis is no illusionâit is the truth,â the same younger voice asserted after a brief silence. âRead what is written, master, and we shall pledge our service to you.â
âI-Iâm not anyoneâs master. Donât call me that; this situation is already too surreal for me,â you protested weakly.
âAs you wish, master,â came the compliant response.
âYou wonât hurt me, will you? Iâm too young to die; I havenât even begun to fulfill my dreamsâŠâ you pleaded, your words abruptly cut off by a snarl. If not for the invisible force holding you down, you might have leaped in fear.
âRead these damn sentences!â the voice commanded, his tone harsh.
âBi-Han, donât frighten her!â another voice intervened.
âFine, fine, Iâll read it!â Tears continued to trickle down your cheeks as you began to recite the words aloud, hoping to end the ordeal. And as you prayed to the god or whatever deity might be watching over you, you couldnât shake the dread that you might be leading yourself to your own demise. âRise, my servants, from the depths of slumber and bind yourselves to me with your souls, revealing your names. Embrace your new purpose ensnared by passion.ââ
As you finished speaking, a powerful gust of wind whipped through the room, causing the towel around your shoulders to unravel and fall. Soon after, you heard the voices of three men speaking in unison, their words echoing loudly.
ââWe rise, Bi-Han, Kuai Liang, and Tomas of the Lin Kuei, bound to your will, for in your presence, we find solace and purpose. We protect and we please, however you see right, however you seem fit. Weâre your slaves, and youâre our master, surrendered to your every command, body and soul.ââ
With a surge of energy, the wind intensified, knocking over the glass on the counter, spilling wine onto the robe and floor. The glass shattered at your feet, scattering shards across the kitchen. A brilliant light emanated from the book, forcing you to shut your eyes against its intensity.
Then, as suddenly as it began, everything fell silent and still. The wind vanished as if it had never been, and the light that had filled the room dimmed into darkness. Summoning the courage to open your eyes, you were met with the sight of three imposing, completely naked men standing a short distance away.
âOh my God, oh my God, oh my God!â You attempted to gather your thoughts, tearing your gaze away from the men to focus on the scattered glass on the kitchen floor. âThere are three naked men in my living room. Andâand they emerged from the book? I must be losing my mind. I really must be losing my mind.â
As the words tumbled from your lips, sounding like utter madness to your own ears, you tried to take deep breaths to calm yourself. But when you attempted to rise from your seat, your numbed feet betrayed you, causing you to stumble and fall to the ground. The impact sent a jolt of pain through your knees and feet as shards of glass embedded themselves into your flesh, stealing the breath from your lungs.
âShh, itâs okay. Calm down, youâre only hurting yourself,â came a gentle voice.
Your gaze was drawn to a towering, bronzed figure looming over you, his powerful physique making you feel small and vulnerable. Sensing your escalating panic, he gently cupped your face in his large hands, the touch of his calloused fingers both rough and tender. With each contact, warmth spread through your body in soothing waves.
âLook at me. Take deep breaths and exhale, just like I do,â he instructed in a soothing tone.
âI canât,â your voice broken with fear.
âOf course you can. Follow my lead, Iâll show you,â he reassured. As you turned your gaze to his face, you were met with a pair of slanted light brown eyes, framed by long black eyelashes. His gaze exuded warmth and understanding, matching the sensitivity of his touch. âBreathe with me. Now.â
As your brain somehow focused on his instructions, you found yourself synchronizing your breaths with the mighty man before you. With each inhale and exhale, you felt a wave of calm wash over you, dissipating the last shreds of your strength. He effortlessly supported you, preventing you from collapsing to the floor, his touch gentle yet firm. Despite the pain throbbing in your flesh and the warmth of blood trickling down your skin, you remained in a state of confusion and fear, unable to muster the will to move from his grasp.
âTomas, find something to clean the wound,â commanded the one with the authoritative voice, resonating with incredible depth. The man who held you gently lowered himself onto one of the double seats in the living room, maintaining his firm grasp on you. A faint warmth spread across your face, but you remained ensnared in his hold, feeling as if your mouth were filled with dry cotton.
Your gaze shifted to the man cradling you, his expression clouded with concern as his amber eyes scrutinized you closely as if he feared you might suffer another attack. Despite his gray hair, you were taken aback when a youthful visage suddenly filled your vision. The man was tall and imposing, his large build casting a formidable shadow over you. Feeling intimidated between these two towering figures, a timid whimper escaped your lips as your body instinctively recoiled, yearning to escape despite its weakened state.
âCalm down, master. We wonât hurt you. Let me tend to your wounds; youâve cut your knees and feet badly. I can ease your pain,â reassured the silver-haired man, his voice carrying a surprisingly gentle tone given his imposing stature. As you swallowed and tried to shift again, a cold sound from across the room froze you in place.
âIf you move again, Iâllââ began the menacing voice.
âBi-Han, enough! Sheâs already frightened, no need to add to it.â Intervened the man holding you, his voice commanding authority. Though Bi-Hanâs threat remained unfinished, its effect lingered, rendering you motionless, afraid to even breathe. As the silver-haired man tended to your wounds while taking advantage of your stillness, the man holding you attempted to comfort you with gentle pats, drawing soothing circles on your back.
Gritting your teeth against the pain as the glass shards were removed, you fought the urge to appear weak and helpless in their eyes. Though you couldnât see yourself from their perspective, a sense of self-consciousness gnawed at you. In an attempt to shift your focus from the pain, the man holding you soflty interjected, âI am Kuai Liang,â he introduced. âMay we know your name?
Struggling to articulate your name through clenched teeth, you managed to utter it in one breath. A faint smile graced Kuai Liangâs face. âItâs a pleasure to meet you, (y/n).â
âSpeak for yourself,â growled Bi-Han from across the living room. âJust another fucking master weâre bound to serve.ââ
ââI thought you wanted to get out of the book.ââ
Kuai Liangâs sharp retort silenced Bi-Han, prompting Tomas, who was tending to your wounds, to interject. âAnd so am I, Tomas. Thank you for calling us into your service.â he said with a small smile that seemed forced, his dull greyish blue eyes lacking genuine emotion. As he carefully tended to your wounds and wrapped them in bandages, a sense of unease washed over you, causing you to squirm away from Kuai Liangâs grasp and retreat to the corner of the seat, eyeing the three men with a mix of confusion and discomfort.
âCan someone please tell me whatâs going on?â you croaked, avoiding their look as your gaze involuntarily dropped to their lower parts for a second before you could prevent it, your cheeks burned with embarrassment. âAnd please cover up your bottoms. You can use the cushions.â
Complying with your request, all three men concealed their private parts with cushions. Tomas took a seat in the opposite double seat, while Bi-Han settled into the single seat. Despite your small apartment being already cramped, the presence of the three burly men made the space feel even more claustrophobic.
âWhere would you like us to start?â
âFrom the beginning,â you replied, addressing Kuai Liang. âWho are you? How did you end up in that book? And why are you here now⊠Please, tell me everything from the beginning so that I can understand.â
âWe are members of a clan called Lin Kuei, known for training assassins, and we are brothers,â he began. âBi-Han is the eldest, serving as the grandmaster of our clan in the past. I, on the other hand, am the middle one, and Tomas and I served as his second-in-commands.ââ
The revelation that they were assassins drained the color from your face, confirming your suspicions from the book cover. A shiver ran down your spine as you realized the chilling reality of being in the presence of trained killers.
âMany years ago, we encountered a demon named Quan Chi on a mission. As you can imagine, the mission went awry, and he sealed us inside this book. Whoever owns the book and says the words becomes our master, and we are compelled to fulfill their wishes and desires.â
Even if you sensed that the information was being presented with some omissions, you refrained from voicing your suspicions. They were strangers to you, and you to them, so expecting complete transparency without trust seemed unreasonable. While you had the authority as their master to demand the truth, approaching the situation in this manner didnât sit well with youâit didnât feel right, nor did it feel humane.
For Godâs sake, the idea of being anyoneâs master was abhorrent. The twenty-first century had arrived, and the notion of a master-slave relationship had long since vanished. It felt nauseating and profoundly unsettling.
âI am not your master. I canâtâI canât be. No.â You attempted to stand up in panic, desperate to escape the situation, but your injuries held you back. Kuai Liang gently grabbed your arm, urging you to calm down.
âCalm down (y/n), your wounds are very fresh. Youâll make them bleed again.â You clung to his wrist, pleading with your eyes for assistance.
âIs there no way to set you free? I canât accept this. This isâthis is against humanity!â
With your words, a deep silence enveloped the room. As you observed their stunned reactions, it became evident that this sentiment was new to them. Your heart ached at the thought of witnessing these powerful men stripped of their freedom. Despite your fear, the realization knotted your stomach. They appeared intimidating and deadly, yet the severity of their situation suggested that past experiences had shattered them and stripped away their dignity. You couldnât fathom how long they had endured as slaves within the confines of the book, but the outcome seemed all too predictable, casting a somber shadow over the room.
âSet us free?â Tomasâs voice echoed with longing, his desire palpable.
âSuch a thing is possible, isnât it? If you tell me what I should do Iââ
âWhy would you do that? What do you want from us in return?â Bi-Hanâs voice sliced through your words, sharp and menacing. You fought to maintain your composure, avoiding freezing in your spot as his icy demeanor chilled the room. As your agitated gaze shifted to his pale, muscular arms, you were astonished to see a thin layer of ice extending from his hands. Were they truly made of ice?
âAs I said just now, I canât be anyoneâs master, itâs in defiance of human ethics. If thereâs any way I can help you, Iâd like to do it. I donât want anything in return except for this situation to end as soon as possible, Iâm sure you want the same.â
âDo you expect us to believe that you are just a fairy godmother?â Bi-Hanâs mocking half smile sent waves of unease through you. âYou are not convincing at all, woman. Favors are done with an expectation of something in return.ââ
âFavors are done for nothing; you donât expect anything in return. Thatâs why itâs called a favor.â Emboldened by a hint of defiance, you met Bi-Hanâs stern gaze head-on. âI can understand why you donât trust me after what youâve been throughââ
ââDonât you dare,â Bi-Han shot up from his seat, his movement swift as a shadow. Suddenly, he was close enough for his breath, cold as winter air, to brush against your face. âDonât try to empathize with what we went through. Do you think you know us now just because youâve learned a few things?â
âIâm sorry, I didnât mean to offend,â you said quickly.
âBrother, please sit down. If you talk like that, we wonât get anywhere.â Kuai Liang intervened, putting one arm between you and Bi-Han. Bi-Han glared at you intensely, his eyes slanted like those of a predator, then he took a deep breath. Watching the mist of his cold breath in the air, everything still felt like an endless dreamâor nightmare. When he finally returned to his seat, Kuai Liangâs gaze turned to you.
âThank you for offering to help, but unfortunately, we donât know how to undo this dark magic.â
You ventured a suggestion that you hoped wouldnât sound foolish. âWe could try burning the book. Iâve seen it work in some movies.â
âWeâve tried that,â Tomas chimed in, joining Kuai Liang. âSeveral times. Whatever weâve done, the book has never been destroyed. Itâs protected by some kind of magic, just as it protects its master from us.â
âYou spoke as if you had tested the last part before.â
In response, silence enveloped the room. Despite your efforts to stave off panic, the realization that they were assassins and the precariousness of your situation made you feel threatened.
âWe have tried to kill several masters before,â Kuai Liang admitted frankly. âBut thereâs some kind of seal that protects themâyou can think of it as a shield. It renders any attack ineffective. Thatâs why we were telling the truth when we said we wouldnât hurt you.â
âOf course, if things were different, it wouldnât mean you wouldnât try,â you said, averting your gaze and clasping your hands in your lap. Another solution came to mind, prompting you to straighten your shoulders and take a deep breath before continuing.
ââ If I canât set you free, then youâre free to do as you please, go where you want. You donât have to be stuck here.â you offered.
âYou wonât give us orders? Isnât there something you want us to do?â Tomas asked, surprised.
âNo, as long as you donât start killing people, youâre free to do whatever you want.â
âWeâre not mindless killers,â said Bi-Han harshly, sounding offended that you would even think of them in that way. Kuai Liang interjected, softening his brotherâs tone.
âWe serve a noble purpose. We were, until we were sealed in the book⊠Our clan has been dedicated to protecting Earthrealm from dangers for centuries,â he explained, his gaze softening slightly as he made eye contact with you. âThank you for the opportunity youâve given us, but we canât be away from you for more than a few hours. We have to get back here, to you.â
Your eyebrows furrowed in confusion. âHow so? Why? Do I have to say something else?â
âNo, itâs part of the magic. It was designed to prevent us from escaping. When weâre away from our masterâyou, and this period becomes longer, we become weaker and weaker.â
âSo at the end of the day⊠God, what cruel magic this is,â Gulping, you scanned all three men with a heavy heart. It must have been torture for them to endure this existence. Even as you spoke, your heart ached with empathy, imagining what they had been subjected to. Anger and sadness gripped your body as you contemplated their plight. âIs there anything else I can do for you? My house isnât too big, but I want you to be comfortable during your stay here.â
It was Bi-Han who responded, his narrowed gaze resembling two thin lines, as if he were dissecting your sincerity. You couldnât help but feel a pang as you tried to discern whether he believed you. While you understood his skepticism, winning their trust seemed like a daunting task.
âYou can start by finding us clothes.â
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