As the first light of morning seeped through the paper-paneled windows, a warm, golden hue illuminated Xue Tuzi's small, cluttered room. The soft glow caught on spools of thread and scattered scraps of fabric, painting them in muted amber tones. Xue Tuzi was slumped over his worktable, the half-sewn garment beneath him crumpled and forgotten. A blanket draped loosely over his shoulders, slipping down as he shifted in his sleep, vulnerable to the morning chill.
The door creaked open quietly, and Xue Laohu stepped inside, his expression softening at the sight of his disciple. He paused, observing for a moment. Xue Tuzi's breathing was steady, his face peaceful despite the faint shadows of exhaustion under his eyes. With a faint sigh, Xue Laohu approached, his steps careful to avoid waking him.
He reached for the blanket, his fingers brushing the fabric as he adjusted it to cover Xue Tuzi more securely. Just as he was smoothing it over the his back, Xue Tuzi stirred, his lashes fluttering open.
"Shizun?" Xue Tuzi mumbled, his voice thick with sleep. He blinked dazedly, rubbing at his eyes before fixing his gaze on the familiar figure before him.
Xue Laohu straightened, caught off guard. "Ah, I didn't mean to wake you," he said, his tone unusually gentle. "It's a bit cold this morning, so I thought…"
Before he could finish, Xue Tuzi's cheeks flushed, a faint pink spreading across his pale skin. Pulling the blanket tighter around his shoulders, he offered a small, sheepish smile. "Shizun is too kind. Thank you for watching over this lowly disciple."
Xue Laohu's lips twitched into an awkward smile as he brushed back his wispy bangs, the gesture almost nervous. "Don't overwork yourself," he said softly, his gaze flickering to the half-finished garment on the table. His hand moved almost instinctively, fingertips brushing against Xue Tuzi's cheek in a fleeting, tender motion.
Xue Tuzi's lashes fluttered at the contact, his head tilting slightly into his Shizun's hand. The unspoken intimacy of the act made Xue Laohu freeze. He quickly retracted his hand, clearing his throat as he fumbled for his fan. With a sharp snap, he opened it, shielding his face with a practiced nonchalance as he waved it briskly.
"Training starts today," Xue Laohu announced, his voice back to its usual brisk, commanding tone. "I'd like you to meet your new teammates." His fan snapped shut with a flick of his wrist, a wide grin spreading across his face. "I'll be waiting for you in the courtyard—and I'm taking the gloves," he added, a mischievous glint in his eyes as he winked.
With that, he turned and departed, his robes swishing behind him as he wafted himself dramatically with his fan.
Left alone, Xue Tuzi clutched the blanket tightly, his heart thudding against his ribcage. His cheeks burned with warmth, and he bit his lip to suppress a shy smile. Taking a steadying breath, he rose to his feet, moving to gather his things.
On the basket, a tiny snore broke the silence. Jiao Jiao, lay sprawled out with a large bubble inflating and deflating on his nose. Xue Tuzi chuckled softly as he poked the bubble, causing it to pop. "Wake up, Xiao Jiao," he murmured affectionately, scratching the creature's head. Xiao Zongzi, had already woken up at dawn and slipped out to join her master.
As Xue Tuzi stepped into the courtyard, the early morning sun casted long shadows across the stone floor, its warmth doing little to thaw the chill that lingered in the air. His eyes immediately fell on Shudu, who stood near the center with his ever-present air of arrogance. Xiao Zongzi perched on Shudu's shoulders, the tiny spider demon's legs skittering across his arms as it moved from one side to the other.
To the side, Li Zhameng stood alone, his head down as he fidgeted nervously with his fingers. His shoulders were hunched, his unease obvious even from a distance. Xue Tuzi's gaze flickered to the sound of approaching footsteps. Xue Laohu entered the courtyard with his usual air of confidence, Sect Leader Mao trailing behind him, muttering unintelligibly under his breath.
With a dramatic flourish, Xue Laohu snapped open his fan, waving it lazily as he addressed the group. "Today marks the first day of practice," he began, his voice ringing out confidently. "And with it, the addition of a few new team members. Allow me to introduce Sect Leader Mao and the Fei twins, Fei Fen and Fei Hong."
Two young women stepped forward, their movements fluid and graceful. They cupped their hands and bowed in unison, their delicate features glowing softly under the sunlight.
Shudu's predatory grin widened, his sharp canine teeth glinting in the light as his gaze lingered far too long on the twins. He licked his lips, a lascivious gleam in his eyes.
"Disgusting pig," Xue Tuzi muttered under his breath, his voice low but edged with clear disdain.
Shudu seemed unfazed, with quick strides, he moved to stand between the twins, throwing an arm casually over each of their shoulders. His grin grew even more mischievous as he leaned in slightly. "You may address this venerable one as Shudu," he said, his tone dripping with false charm. "No need for formalities." His eyes roved over them shamelessly.
The twins exchanged a brief glance but maintained their composure, bowing politely. "Nice to meet you, Shudu Gongzi," they said in perfect unison, their voices calm and unwavering.
Li Zhameng, stepped forward next. Bowing deeply, he introduced himself with a timid smile. "My surname is Li, and my name is Zhameng. It's nice to meet you."
Xue Tuzi watched the scene unfold with growing irritation, his patience wearing thin as Shudu basked in the attention. With a soft sigh, he squared his shoulders and approached the group, his movements smooth and purposeful.
As he drew closer, the twins turned their attention to him, their eyes widening slightly. A faint blush rose to their cheeks as they took in his striking features, the sharp angles of his face softened by the calm elegance of his demeanor.
"Surname Xue," he said simply, bowing politely but without the eagerness of the others.
The twins mirrored his bow, their movements a touch more hesitant, their gazes flickering back to him. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Xue Shidi," Fei Fen murmured, her voice a shade quieter than before. Fei Hong nodded in agreement, her blush deepening as she quickly glanced away.
Shudu, noticing the shift in their attention, narrowed his eyes slightly but said nothing, his grin slipping into something sharper, less amused. Xue Tuzi, unbothered, stepped back to take his place among the group, his expression calm but his annoyance simmering just beneath the surface.
"Alright, I'll be assigning everyone's positions, so listen up," Xue Laohu announced, his voice cutting through the chatter in the courtyard. He stood tall, his fan snapping shut with a sharp click as his sharp gaze swept over the group. "Each of you has been chosen for your specific talents."
The group fell silent, their attention fixed on him.
"Xue Tuzi," Xue Laohu began, his voice carrying a tone of approval, "your precise aim and ability to land your needles exactly where they need to go have earned you the position of Pitcher."
Xue Tuzi's eyes widened slightly at the recognition, but he quickly composed himself, bowing deeply. Xue Laohu stepped forward, handing him a baseball glove and ball.
"This disciple thanks, Shizun," Xue Tuzi said, his voice steady, he cradled the glove and ball, his posture straight and resolute.
"Shudu," Xue Laohu continued, turning his attention to the demon, "your strong, muscular build makes you the perfect candidate for Catcher."
Shudu smirked, sauntering forward with deliberate ease. His red eye gleamed with amusement as he leaned in close to Xue Laohu, his voice a low whisper. "Grandmaster Xue is too generous with his words," he said, his grin stretching into something sharp and wolfish.
Xue Laohu's expression didn't falter, but his fan flicked open in one smooth motion, gently pushing Shudu back with a light tap to his forehead. "Just catch the ball," he said dryly, handing him the catcher's glove.
Next, Xue Laohu turned to the nervous figure standing off to the side. "Li Zhameng, you'll be at first base. Fear not—I'll be right beside you on second base."
Li Zhameng blinked in surprise, his hands trembling slightly as he stepped forward to accept the glove. His eyes shimmered with gratitude, and he bowed deeply, his voice quivering. "This disciple is greatful to, Shizun."
Xue Laohu gave him a brief nod, his smile softening. "Good. Stay alert and keep your focus."
"Xiao Jiao," Xue Laohu called, his voice taking on a playful tone. "You'll be our shortstop."
From Xue Tuzi's pouch, a plump Gu worm peeked out, its glossy head wobbling excitedly. With an enthusiastic squeal, Xiao Jiao grabbed the tiny glove custom-fitted for its stubby limbs. Hopping up and down, it clambered back into Xue Tuzi's arms, chittering happily.
"Sect Leader Mao," Xue Laohu said, his tone shifting as his gaze landed on the grizzled figure at the back, "You'll be at third base."
Sect Leader Mao's eyes narrowed, his expression sour as he stomped forward. His heavy steps echoed against the stone floor, his hunched shoulders radiating displeasure. He snatched the glove from Xue Laohu's outstretched hand, muttering under his breath, though loud enough for everyone to hear, "Of all the tasks…"
Sect Leader Mao grumbled something unintelligible as he retreated to his assigned spot, his narrowed eyes darting suspiciously toward Xue Laohu.
"Lastly," Xue Laohu announced, his voice carrying over the group as he glanced at the remaining players, "I want Fei Fen in left field, Xiao Zongzi in center, and Fei Hong in right field."
The Fei twins stepped forward gracefully, their movements perfectly synchronized as they bowed to Xue Laohu. "Understood, Grandmaster Xue," Fei Fen said softly, her tone carrying quiet confidence. Fei Hong echoed her with a nod, her shy smile barely visible beneath her fringe of dark hair. Xiao Zongzi, perched on Shudu's shoulder, skittered excitedly, hopping down and extending one of her many legs to accept a custom glove before scampering off to take her position.
Xue Laohu clapped his hands together and smiled broadly. "Now, let's begin with tossing partners. It's essential to build trust with one another, so I've paired you all strategically." He paused for emphasis. "Xue Tuzi, you'll be partnered with Shudu."
A heavy silence followed the announcement, broken only by the sharp snap of Xue Tuzi's glove tightening around the ball he held.
"Shizun…" Xue Tuzi began, his voice low and tight with irritation as he hurried after Xue Laohu.
Before he could reach his Shizun, Shudu intercepted him, his large hand wrapping around Xue Tuzi's wrist. "Hey," Shudu teased, his sharp grin spreading wide.
"Don't touch me!" Xue Tuzi snapped, yanking his hand free and smacking Shudu's away with enough force to make the demon blink in surprise. Xue Tuzi's glare burned hot as he turned his attention back to Xue Laohu.
"Shizun," Xue Tuzi called out again, his voice louder now as he caught up to him. "Why must I be paired with that vermin?" His words dripped with disdain, and his brows furrowed deeply as he gestured toward Shudu, who was now rubbing his hand, a bemused expression on his face.
Xue Laohu stopped, turning slowly to face his disciple. His expression was calm but firm as he placed his hands on Xue Tuzi's tense shoulders. "It's vital for the pitcher and catcher to build a strong relationship," he said, his tone brooking no argument. "The two of you will need to trust and rely on each other during matches. This isn't just about personal feelings—this is for the good of the sect."
Xue Tuzi's lips tightened into a thin line, his hands curling into fists at his sides. "But—"
"No buts," Xue Laohu interrupted, his voice softening slightly but still resolute. He glanced down at his disciple's clenched fists, then sighed. "I know this won't be easy for you, but I want you to put your differences aside and work together. The sect is depending on it."
Before Xue Tuzi could protest further, Xue Laohu gave his shoulders a reassuring squeeze, then turned on his heel, his fan snapping open as he began to walk away. The fabric of his robe fluttered lightly in the breeze.
Xue Tuzi stared after him, frustration simmering under his skin. Before he could fully process his next move, Shudu's voice cut through his thoughts.
"Relax," Shudu said, stepping closer. His red eye glinted with amusement as he leaned in, his voice dropping to a teasing whisper. "Don't worry—I won't eat you. Not today, anyway." He flashed a toothy grin, but before he could continue, Xue Tuzi shoved him back with enough force to make Shudu stumble.
"Don't get close to me," Xue Tuzi growled, his tone laced with venom.
Practice began, but it was anything but harmonious.
Xue Tuzi, seething from the forced partnership, threw the ball with precision—but with a vindictive force that turned every catch into a punishment. Shudu caught the first few throws with a smirk, though his hands reddened from the impact. "Is that all you've got?" he taunted, rolling his shoulders.
But as the throws grew fiercer, even Shudu's bravado began to crack. A fastball slammed into his side, leaving a visible bruise beneath his shirt. Another hit his thigh with a sickening thud. Still, Shudu refused to falter.
He groaned as he coughed, spitting out a trace of blood. "If you kill me, who's going to catch your shit pitches?"
Xue Tuzi ignored him, his anger blinding. With a final throw, the ball struck Shudu square in the face. A wet crack echoed through the courtyard as Shudu staggered back, clutching his cheek. Blood trickled from the corner of his mouth, and his grin twisted.
Shudu winced as he rubbed his cheek, which was already beginning to redden and swell. "What the fuck was that for?" he snapped, his voice tight with irritation. Across from him, Xue Tuzi stood with a smirk that bordered on infuriating, his big, doe-like eyes brimming with mock innocence.
"My hand slipped," Xue Tuzi said lazily, his tone dripping with feigned sincerity. Without missing a beat, he hurled another ball with alarming precision, this time aiming straight for Shudu's groin.
Shudu barely managed to catch it, his reflexes saving him from a world of pain. "You little—"
In the distance, the twins, Fei Fen and Fei Hong, watched the scene unfold with rapt attention, their gazes locked on the heated exchange. Their faces were flushed, as they huddled close together, murmuring in hushed tones.
"Do you feel that?" Fei Fen whispered, peeking out from beneath her glove to steal another glance at the bickering pair.
Fei Hong sighed dramatically, clutching her chest as though the sheer emotional weight of the moment was too much to bear. "It's so obvious," she breathed, her voice dreamy. "The tension is obvious."
Fei Fen nodded eagerly, leaning in even closer to her sister, their shoulders nearly touching as they continued to observe Xue Tuzi and Shudu. The two men were now locked in a heated fight, bodies tussling on the ground.
"It's like watching a story come to life," Fei Hong added with a wistful sigh, her eyes glimmering with romantic hope as she and her sister basked in the drama unfolding before them.
After hours of grueling practice, the sun finally sank below the horizon, and the night took over, casting a blanket of darkness across the land. Inside the grand estate, the sound of Sect Leader Mao's thunderous snores echoed through the chamber, a relentless, grating rhythm that filled every corner of the room. His wife, however, lay wide awake, tossing and turning in growing frustration. She buried her head beneath a mound of pillows in a futile attempt to muffle the noise, but when that failed, she sat up with a huff, her hair a wild, tangled mess.
Her patience worn thin, she seized a rag from the bedside and shoved it unceremoniously into Sect Leader Mao's mouth. He jolted awake, gagging and coughing, his bleary eyes fluttering open to meet her piercing glare. Her arms were crossed tightly, and her brows furrowed in exasperation.
"Dear wife," he croaked, his voice still heavy with sleep, "your Master is unable to please you tonight. Perhaps you'd prefer the company of a younger man?" His eyelids drooped as he muttered the words, already pulling the covers over his head in a bid to retreat back into his slumber.
But his escape was short-lived. She pinched his nose, forcing him to gasp awake again. "Master," she said sharply, her voice tinged with simmering anger, "this wife would like some sleep." She jabbed a finger toward the door, her meaning unmistakable.
Sect Leader Mao grumbled as he rose from the bed, his wife's sharp gaze following his every move like a predator watching its prey. Her eyes glinted with a mix of annoyance and authority. "Does Master have something to say to his wife?" she asked, her voice deceptively sweet but underlined with menace.
Sect Leader Mao knew better than to argue. If there was one thing he had learned in their years of marriage, it was that crossing his wife was a dangerous game. No matter his mood, he dared not huff, frown, or even sigh in her direction. Instead, he approached her carefully, cupping her face in his large, calloused hands.
"This Master has been inconsiderate to his wife," he said softly, pressing a warm kiss to her furrowed brow. As his lips lingered, the lines of tension on her face smoothed, and a small smile began to curve her lips.
Her voice softened as she wrapped her arms around his neck and planted a tender kiss on his bushy lips. "This wife is so lucky to have such a thoughtful Master," she murmured, her earlier frustration melting away.
She turned back to the bed, gathering her unruly hair into a loose braid before sinking beneath the plush blankets, finally ready for rest. Sect Leader Mao watched her for a moment, his expression fond despite his earlier grumbling. Quietly, he closed the door behind him, releasing a weary sigh as he made his way to his study.
"Even the gods fear a wife's wrath," he muttered under his breath, shaking his head as he padded down the dimly lit hall.
Li Zhameng had long succumbed to the pull of sleep, sprawled across his bed with the sheets haphazardly draped over half his body. A faint trail of drool glistened as it slid down the corner of his mouth, his lips twitching with murmured whispers of his Shizun's name. The room was silent except for the occasional soft sighs that escaped him, the faint moonlight highlighting his peaceful, albeit slightly disheveled, expression.
In the next room, Xue Laohu remained awake, hunched over his table with an air of tireless determination. The soft glow of his candle flickered against the walls as he meticulously sketched out diagrams and scribbled down strategies for the game. His brows were furrowed in concentration, the quiet scratch of his brush against parchment filling the otherwise still night.
Meanwhile, in the far corner of the estate, the Fei twins were seated at their shared table, their candle casting a warm, steady light over the scene. Each of them was deeply immersed in their own work, the tips of their brushes heavy with ink as they drew with feverish enthusiasm. Yet their focus was not on any serious study or plans—it was on the charged dynamics between Xue Tuzi and Shudu.
Fei Fen's illustration portrayed Xue Tuzi locked in a heated embrace with Shudu. Xue Tuzi's lips pressed fervently against Shudu's bruised mouth, a single drop of blood trailing down from the corner of the latter's lips. Shudu's muscular chest was partially exposed, and Xue Tuzi's hand rested firmly against it. The passion in the scene was almost tangible, with Xue Tuzi's eyes closed as if completely lost in the moment.
Fei Hong's drawing, on the other hand, was even more intense. In her rendition, Shudu had Xue Tuzi pinned beneath him, his large hands gripping the other man's shoulders tightly. Shudu's lips were pressed to the crook of Xue Tuzi's neck, devouring it with unrelenting hunger. Xue Tuzi's flushed face was turned to the side, his misty eyes half-lidded and his mouth parted as though he were gasping or moaning.
The twins giggled softly, their whispers mingling with the crackle of the candle. Their laughter echoed softly through the night as they continued to spin elaborate fantasies.