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[illicitly]

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Date night!

[taintedpeony]

Jin Guangyao was more excited about this date than even he had cared to admit. There was so much bustling to do between work, the turf war, and running the propaganda campaign was more than enough and a nice night out with his roommate was just what he needed. He got ready and conditioned his ears and tails so they were fluffy and silky. He loved the floral-scented kitsune shampoo and fur care products that were available to him. He was a man who liked to look his best and tonight was no exception. He was dressed in a Happi jacket with a gold button-down shirt. this was paired with a pair of black skinny jeans the salesperson had convinced him would make his ass look wonderful and he had to agree. He put his hair up in the jin-styled ponytail with a gold guan pinning it both at the base and the end.

Yao-kun is looking like he is ready for a very good evening and an even better night. Kekeke!

Goodness, it is nothing like that Koemi. Why must you insinuate such things?!

Oh no reason at all kekekekeke! she chortled.

He peeked through the door of their tiny apartment, after giving himself a last once over.

"Huaisang are you ready? It is almost time for our reservation!" he called in.

[illicitly]

A night to decompress and unwind from all the stress he's been under lately is exactly what Nie Huaisang needs. Despite his current level of skill in strategy and subterfuge, he achieved it through years of self-teaching and grueling practice across a decade. In those days, he'd been utterly convinced that one wrong move would not only bring about his death but the destruction of his sect as well had he been caught. He's never had a high threshold for hard work and it's been stretched rather thin of late.

It been hard for him to care enough about this stupid sewer or whatever pre-existing squabble might exist between Toraguma and Tenkohime. Aside from the generous bonus for his work at the bathhouse and sticking up for the clan after the Shuten Clan leader had insulted them, his clan leader hasn't done much to inspire his loyalty. Add in the fact that he could easily achieve this objective if he had resources of his own and this whole turf war has been an exercise in frustration.

So he's ready for this date. He's donned one of the garments of his own design currently being sold by the tailor he'd assisted before the Night Parade, a midnight blue hanfu-kimono blend spangled in a crane-and-moon pattern. He's put his hair up for the occasion, affixing with a delicate bird hairpin. After touching up his eye makeup one last time, he heads toward the front door, fan in hand.

"I'm ready to go now," he says. "Sorry for the wait. I remember you said it was for one of the finer places so I wanted to make sure I'm dressed up enough for it."

[taintedpeony]

He tried to keep the flush from his face as he looked him up and down.

"Nie Huaisang you look quite handsome. You have certainly proven yourself quite skilled at clothing construction. I love the colors on you and the blend of styles." he smiled warmly and offered him an arm.

With the other hand, he opened the door leading them to the cool evening air. "The place is an expensive sushi restaurant. They cut all the fish in very delicate ways. I am really excited to try it. I hear it is delicious. There are so many foods I've only read about and heard about in Dongying, who knew I would have the opportunity to try them after my demise."

It was good to look forward to things, it had been some time since he had looked forward to anything.

[illicitly]

Nie Huaisang takes his arm, smiling back. Since making the decision to partner up with Jin Guangyao just to give them both some stability in this chaotic whirlwind of personal ambition and rising tensions all around them, he's felt a little more at peace. Sure, he's annoyed by his current rank as an overqualified rookie having to work his way back up to a leadership position after previously holding one for a decade but it's helped to have someone he knows he can count on. As strange as it is that it happens to be Jin Guangyao of all people.

There's still a lot they have to talk about and process but they've managed to live together this long without either of them slashing the other's throat. So Nie Huaisang's continued to cautiously allow the cold, stone walls he's maintained around his heart for the past ten years to finally start coming down.

And it's just nice to be able to think about something other than strategies on how to snatch that smelly sewer from under Toraguma's nose.

"Is it? I've never tried food from Dongying before coming here... I'm glad we managed to sneak in some time to make use of that coupon. A break from work sounds wonderful."

[taintedpeony]

It was a lot and there was so much between them that still need to be addressed. It was not the turf war that occupied Jin Guangyao's mind but his other work. After struggling to run from his entire life to escape the brothel and whoreson name, he found himself right back in it. There was a part of himself that twisted itself into knots about it. And though his clients were all very sweet and comfortable, there was a part of him that just wanted to curl up and sob.

He didn't know if his roommate ever caught him, curled in the bath some nights. That combined with the trauma of his losses and Jin Ling's absence...It was a lot.

He was however willing to do anything to fulfill his contract, even if it meant spreading his legs for whoever would have him.

But Nie Huaisang somehow anchored him. Having someone familiar who really saw him, who he did not have to act around. It was good.

"I have had the chance to try some things, Hakagemachi had a ramen stand, though we never ate the meat there...For dubious reasons."

We need to order Agedashi tofu! More fried tofu!

"Koemi demands that we order fried tofu as well. Huli Jing are really fond of it. I am happy we managed a break as well." He pressed his shoulder against the other man.

"Let's forget about all of that and enjoy ourselves tonight. We can worry about work tomorrow."

[illicitly]

"That sounds good," he says, relaxing a bit more. "We'll be sure to make sure Lady Koemi has all that she desires as well."

It has been comforting to have someone near who understands him as well. There's no point in lying or hiding himself around Jin Guangyao anymore. He already knows what a dangerous enemy Nie Huaisang can be and it's probably for the best that there's someone in the Tamamo Clan who knows when and how to soothe him before irreparable damage can be done.

He leans into the contact unconsciously, letting it anchor him in the moment. A night of fun without worrying about everything would probably do them both good. It's just all been so overwhelming though at least, he's enjoying painting and design again. He'd had a good time in the bathhouse, too, coming up with creative ways to satisfy his customers.

[taintedpeony]

Keep this one or I'll steal him!

Goodness is that all it takes to win your heart?!

Still, he laughed. "She appreciates the gesture, very much," he said while pressing an arm around the other's waist. The city was lively and loud, but it was early enough in the evening that the usual street fights hadn't quite broken down yet.

"This place has its own kind of charm though. It's more bustling than even Lanling in festival season. Once we are used to all the noise, it really isn't a bad place to live. Certaily is a lot better than Hakagemachi was. Even if it is Jigoku... I did not think I would have had this afterlife.

Look around us. There are so many different kinds of food to try, and art to see. Games to play and music to hear. I wonder what kinds of operas would be available here? It can be like the day trips we used to take into the Qingge markets when we were young."

He had noticed his recent anxiety and melancholy. He wanted to remind him of the beautiful things that he loves. It used to work on him, in the past.

"I'm really proud of you Nie Huaisang."

[illicitly]

It certainly sounds more appealing to him than the drudgery of handling this turf war. It's been difficult to stay motivated to continue a fight that isn't his. If not for his obligations to the living back home, Nie Huaisang's performance might be just as lackluster here as it'd been publically back home. Some days, it takes multiple reminders that the future of his clan is at stake. And stubborn quelling of the thoughts of just how sad and lonely his life back home truly is.

The contact feels nice though. Until his arrival here, it'd been many years since he'd been in a frame of mind to enjoy such things. What Jin Guangyao is talking about sounds nice though. There is a lot going on in the city, it seems. The clan politics is the same as ever but there's so many bright lights, businesses, and everyday wonders to explore.

"Thank you," he murmurs solemnly at the statement. "I'm doing my best but it hasn't been easy. This conflict with the Shuten Clan has been overwhelming on top of the Night Parade."

The apparent assassination and chaos surrounding it had aggravated so many painful thoughts and feeling. While he was pleased to see the Daitengu had survived, it'd been demoralizing to get so upset over something that ultimately amounted to nothing.

"I want to explore this world when I can. There seems to be so much to see and do. So much to learn about this place given the opportunity to explore it. The more understanding I have of this place, the more I'll be able to contribute."

[taintedpeony]

"I think so too. Take it as part of the research. But let's explore and have fun. It has been so much lately. I want us to experience good things as well. Like when we would play in Lanling or Qingge when we were younger and you would wheedle me into buying you presents." he laughed softly.

He led the both of them to the restaurant. It had a traditional Japanese facade and served omakase. The Kitsune that ran it were dressed in formal yukata and the friendly hostess welcomed them in.

They were led to a nice private seat overlooking a koi pond. The atmosphere was lovely and there were musicians playing the koto.

Finally settling in, Jin Guangyao smiled across the table. "This place is lovely, isn't it?"

[illicitly]

"It is. Thanks for inviting me."

It is a lovely atmosphere, peaceful and relaxing, just what Nie Huaisang needs to soothe his nerves and recharge. He's smiling as they're seated, just taking a moment to enjoy the pretty music and serene surroundings. It's the kind of atmosphere he tries to create for his customers, one that's restful and helps them clear the mind of their troubles. And he certainly needs to be able to cleanse himself of stress as well.

"It's been so long since I've had the chance to just play and not worry about anything... Those outings were nice, though. It felt good to just get away and not think about burdensome things."

[taintedpeony]

"Of course. There was no one else I would rather be here with," he said. Sincerely, he had surprised himself when the words came out. But he supposed it was true. It felt nice to be here relaxing with someone who understood him. Someone he had known for so very long.

The kitsune hostess handed them a menu of drinks, the meal was chosen specially by the chef after all. Jin Guangyao went ahead and ordered a bottle of expensive sake, keeping Huaisang's preferences in mind.

"It was nice for me as well back then. I was under so much pressure with everything that going on those outings was a breath of fresh air for me.

I really did enjoy your company. It was one of the few times I could really spend some time with someone who was on a similar level to me...I mean, a second son. Even Er-ge was a sect leader. With you, I could just talk about art and beautiful things. It was nice." he spoke softly, taking a hand and resting it on the other man's.

[illicitly]

The hand on his surprises him a little though he's not sure why. Nie Huaisang feels his face grow a little warm but doesn't pull his hand away. Maybe it's the nice surroundings getting to him combined with reminiscing about simpler days.

"I enjoyed spending time with you, too. Those visits were such bright spots in my life in Qinghe. I was always so bored and lonely and everything always felt so dreary. Decorating my room to be more suitable to me helped."

He hadn't felt so out of place with a room that looked and felt like his own. That collection of fans, scrolls, and porcelain had meant so much more to him than simple material gifts. They'd been a reflection of himself and symbolic of the fact that someone accepted and cared for him just as he was.

"And it was already nice to get away from Qinghe. Every time I'm there, it feels like the walls are closing in."

His ancestral home had an oppressive feeling that had driven him to pursue passions beyond the traditions held within it. He's always had a bit of rebellion in his, embolded through the influence of those around him.

[taintedpeony]

"Lanling felt like that to me much of my life. Not oppressive in the same sense, but all the gold hid a rot that festered throughout the walls deep in its bones." he shook his head a bit. It was the first time he admitted it out loud.

"The irony of it. I spent so much of my early years to be there but while my father lived it turned into a gilded cage. And even after his death I just knew it was a castle;e built on sand and just the slightest breeze could send everything crumbling. I had really thought I would be happier...But those dreams turned into ash.

Spending time with you was wonderful and I am grateful that we can do this now. Even after it all. I missed you in Hakagemachi. I'm glad for this. Thank you Huaisang, for what you did during the parade. I know I wasn't easy to handle when I get like that." he paused as their drinks and some soft-shelled crabs and agedashi tofu were served in front of them.

Tofu!!!!

[illicitly]

The food looks delicious and of much finer fare than the humble meals they tend to eat at home. Not that he isn't grateful for Jin Guangyao's cooking or doesn't like it. It's been a big relief to not have to worry about cooking for himself on top of everything else. Besides, all he knows how to make is soup and roast meat over a fire.

"I'm glad that I was able to help you. I couldn't leave you to just struggle on like that... Not with everything I know about you. We're not enemies any longer. Here, we are of the same clan, on the same side."

Of course, it runs deeper than just that but it's still a lot to face and admit to himself, much less out loud. Though after a moment, he feels that he should say something. Such an open confession warrants another in turn.

"I... I know I'm not easy to handle either. When I get agitated or when I get stressed... I can be pretty difficult sometimes but I'm grateful for everything you do for me. You've been taking care of me for so long, even after coming here... And helping me out during the turf war. I'm very thankful for it all and I appreciate all that you do."

He blurts the words out, licking his lips nervously after they're in the air.

[taintedpeony]

Jin Guangyao went ahead and served him first, settling some soft-shelled crab and tofu on the plate before serving himself. It was true the meals he was cooking at home were mostly cheaper ones, with meat and vegetables that he bought on sale days to stretch the money they had further. Perhaps when they had more to spare he would buy a small hot pot and fresh lamb. It would be a nice change of pace from what they were eating. He also wanted to cook more protein-rich food for Huaisang's health.

"We are. It is strange being in the same clan again. But I like it. I feel at home in our little place. More so than I have in a long time.

Huaisang I take care of you because I like doing so. You haven't had an easy hand and if I can help you I want to...Thank you. Saying you appreciate me means a lot to me." He took a bite of tofu and Koemi's reaction was visible in his tails wagging cheerfully.

"I know everything is a lot. but I am happy you are here." he squeezed his hand again as more food was served. This time bluefin tuna sashimi, unagi, and a variety of other fresh fish.

"Look we are getting spoiled tonight."

[illicitly]

Nie Huaisang's lips curve in slight amusement at the wagging tails. He's grown used to Koemi's inescapable presence during their interactions but there's a lot that still feels mysterious to him. However, he's come to the conclusion that the huli jing isn't a threat to either him or Jin Guangyao. In a way, it's been like having an additional ally within the clan.

"It's a good spread," he agrees, hesitantly squeezing back.

While he's certain they're taking the best path for them both under these circumstances, it's hard to ignore than needling inner voice that reminds him incessantly that Jin Guangyao still committed crimes against his clan and he can never forget that. But after a decade of maintaining that endless mantra during every interaction, particularly ones where he found himself genuinely relaxing or feeling good in the man's presence, he's exhausted. It's time he moved forward in his life again.

"So many of these dishes look good... I don't know where to even begin," he admits. "And thank you. It's different being valued here. No one back home thinks I'm good for anything at all."

[taintedpeony]

Jin Guangyao picked at a piece of fish placing it over the rice enjoying the fresh sea flavor. Koemi wanted more tofu so all he could do was oblige, and she chittered happily in his head. He gave a soft laugh. While in Hakagemachi he had to deal with the fact that she was supposed to take him over entirely, not it felt like they were just sharing this body.

"I would start with the white fish, the flavor is so nice and light. I really missed seafood."

His brows furrowed. "Is that true? I thought you would have shown your true abilities after my death."

[illicitly]

"I've only just started," he says as maneuvers some of the white fish onto his plate with the serving chopsticks. "It caused a bit of a stir. No one expected me to be good at organizing ceremonies or conducting rites, much less as skilled as Old Man Lan."

It's only a small demonstration of what he's capable of and to be compared favorably to a respected elder and esteemed teacher of the Gusu Lan Sect had been a great compliment. But also a little worrying, too, since with recognition also comes expectations. Nie Huaisang's always been keenly aware of the pressures that come with leadership and responsibility and harbored doubts about his abilities to meet them. A desire to avoid that extra scrutiny and burden has played a major role in his preference to downplay his abilities and present himself as far more incompetent than he actually is. It's a long-held defense mechanism and one he's finding himself backsliding into here as well as Tenkohime needs and expects more of him.

What if his best isn't good enough? It was never good enough in the past, back home. What reason does he have to believe things will be any different here?

"I suppose I'm still getting used to it. You know what people have always thought of me."

A useless good-for-nothing. The unprepared leader who caused his clan to fall into weakness and obscurity through sheer incompetence. Of course, there was way more to the situation than the public knew and they were always keen to spread unfounded rumors but being surrounded by such a negative perception of himself, however false, has still left its mark on him.

[taintedpeony]

"That is a good compliment. It must have been jarring to just bury us and then see me here." he did not ask if any lit incense or burned paper was for him. It was something Wei Wuxian has said in Hakagemnachi and he cried over it in the beginning. There was no one to give offerings to his mother either...

He refocused on his food instead.

"I can understand the anxieties of being seen as such. It comes with expectations and tongues and opinions." It was why he worked so hard as Chief Cultivator to quell any rumors about him, with swiftness. Why he has had to become the perfect gentleman and wipe away the very core of any whoreson mannerisms he may have had, from his fast and melodious Yunmeng accent to scraping down the callouses in his hands with a stone so it had the illusion of a man who had never worked. It was the price he paid to protect himself and his family, but in the end, it didn't matter at all.

"I think it will get better as you go. This is your true self, doing what you are good at. Being what you are good at. And I know leadership feels daunting but you will grow into a fine one.

Whether that is back home or here. I always knew you had it in you." He ate quietly, humming softly as he chewed.

"You will find a style that works for you. It will not be Da-ge's style, Er-ge's style, or even my style of leadership. It will be your own, from watching all of us and hopefully learning from our follies.

But I will remain by you should you need guidance, while here at least. It would be good for you to know the ins and out of the chief cultivator's position and what it may entail. I would rather be happy to leave the world in your capable hands lest a greedy man takes it."

[illicitly]

The work he's doing for Tenkohime is good experience for his position back home, he knows. Learning how to work with others in a group instead of relying only on himself and his own resources to achieve goals is a skill he needs to develop. Manipulation and diplomacy only get a politician and leader so far, Power means nothing wihout the strength and discipline necessary to maintain it, no matter what form that takes.

No matter how skilled he is at running his sect, Nie Huaisang leads only because it is his birthright. Without the blood of the Nie Clan coursing through his veins, he would have never been in a position of authority in their world. The chief cultivator position is different. To fill the now vacant seat, he has prove himself worthy enough to secure the votes of the other sect leaders first.

"i need to learn how to work with others," he says after a moment with a sigh. "I've worked alone for so long or relied on subordinates that followed my orders without question. The inner workings of the Tamamo Clan are so different from anything I've known."

But he's slowly getting used to it in the course of his work on the turf war. Working alongside Young Master Gao, Lady Musashi, and Jin Guangyao himself have helped.

"I have some ideas but little experience working overtly with other leaders. I have no intention of abusing my authority once the position is in my grasp. Too many of our number are hungry for power and acclaim. This type of avarice is counterproductive to peace and harmony."